Chapter 1: The Mare in The Moon (S1:E1)

My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Rachel Ravens

Chapter 1: The Mare in the Moon

Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria, there were two regal sisters who ruled together and created harmony for all the land. To do this, the eldest used her unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn while the younger brought out the moon to begin the night. Thus, the two sisters maintained balance for their kingdom and their subjects, all the different types of ponies. But, as time went on, the younger sister became resentful. The ponies relished and played in the day her elder sister brought forth, but shunned and slept through her beautiful night. One fateful day, the younger unicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn. The elder sister tried to reason with her, but, the bitterness in the young one's heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness: Nightmare Moon. She vowed that she would shroud the land in eternal night. Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to ponydom: the Elements of Harmony. Using the magic of the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently in the moon. The elder sister took on responsibility for both sun and moon and harmony has been maintained in Equestria for generations since.

This was the story read by a young mare named Twilight Sparkle. She was a young unicorn with a light purple coat, a dark blue and moderate purple mane and tail that were bushy and sported a pink, skunk-like stripe in the middle. Her eyes were a slightly darker violet shade of the same purple color as her mane and tail and her cutie mark was a pink colored six pointed star. Surrounding said star was a series of five smaller stars all colored white. “Hmm... Elements of Harmony,” she pondered. Those three simple words began stirring up vague memories for her. “I know I've heard of those before... but, where?” Twilight was a very bookish mare who often read in her spare time. She’d read all manner of things from mythology to history, science to math, english to astrology, and even the odd breezie’s tale (the Equestria version of fairy tales) from time to time. As one can very well imagine, such a wealth of literacy subjects molded Twilight into a very intelligent young mare.

Her curiosity shifting into overdrive, Twilight decided to head to her room. Her hooves pounded the ground as her mind whirred.

"I know I've heard of the Elements of Harmony," she mused to herself. Suddenly, she saw a trio of unicorns. A white one with pink mane and tail, a yellow one with a blue mane and tail, and a blue one with a white and blue mane and tail.

“There you are, Twilight. We’ve been looking for you,” said the white one.

“You have?” Twilight asked in surprise. These three unicorns were among her classmates at school.

“Yeah. Moon Dancer’s having a little get-together in the west castle courtyard. You want to come? You can bring Spike along.” At that last sentence, Twilight became hesitant and began looking for an excuse. A quick look at her saddlebag gave her a convenient one to use.

“Oh, sorry, girls,” sighed Twilight. “I've a lot of studying to catch up on. I’ll need Spike to help me out there.” With an awkward smile, Twilight rushed past the three unicorns.

“Doesn't that pony do anything except studying?" asked the blue one.

“I think she’s more interested in books than friends, Minuette,” replied the yellow one.

“It’s been so long since we’ve seen Spike. I miss seeing him,” added the white one.

Meanwhile, Twilight ran into a larger unicorn stallion with a white coat and a blue mane and tail. This was Twilight’s older brother, Shining Armor. “Whoa, Twily! Where’s the fire?” he joked.

"Hi, BBBFF," Twilight hugged him tightly. Shining Armor returned the hug.

“Moon Dancer’s having a get-together in the west castle courtyard. You going?” the older stallion asked.

Twilight felt a bit upset. “I want to, but, I’m worried about bringing Spike with me,” she said. “What if someone judges me for having raised him? What if he gets judged himself? I just don’t know if he can take that kind of rejection.”

“Twily, you know that Moon Dancer wouldn’t invite ponies like that. And if she DOES, they’ll have to deal with me,” declared the older stallion.

Twilight chuckled. "Well, no one messes with the captain of the royal guard." she sighed "All the same, I still feel scared.”

“Twilight,” said Shining Armor sternly. “How long have you been raising Spike?”

“Uh, about 10 years or so,” Twilight calculated.

“And do you still love him like family after all this time?” Shining questioned.

"Of course I do," said Twilight. "I was tasked to do so by Princess Celestia. I admit, I did it out of obligation at first, but, after all this time, I’ve become attached to him.”

“Then, that’s what’s important, Twily,” Shining Armor asserted. “It doesn’t matter what others think. Don’t let them stop you from loving him like family.”

Twilight smiled at her brother’s advice. “Thank you, BBBFF. I’ll go see Spike,” she said. She trotted off and soon reached a huge tower where the door was all the way up beyond a winding staircase. This tower was the place the studious unicorn called home.

Twilight flung open the door, sending some books flying. "Oh dear…"

"You were studying all night, again," sighed Spike, who turned out to be a small dragon that came up to roughly the same height as Twilight. Said dragon had a mulberry pinkish-purple coat, a light green colored underbelly, lime green ear fronds, green scales, and matching green eyes. At the moment, he was holding a box with red wrapping and gold ribbons.

Twilight noticed the present and grew curious.

"What is that?" she asked.

“A little something I plan on giving to Moon Dancer," Spike explained. “She’s having a get-together–”

“In the west castle courtyard, I know. I heard it twice on the way here,” the disgruntled Twilight interrupted. “You know we don’t have time for that kind of stuff.”

“But, we’re on a break!” pleaded the young dragon. “You promised Princess Celestia you’d take it easy until the Summer Sun Celebration. We never see Twinkleshine, Lemon Hearts, Minuette, or Moon Dancer anymore.”

Twilight felt a twinge of heartache she couldn’t explain from Spike’s pleading. “Help me out with this and I’ll take you with me the next time we’re invited to a get-together. I promise.”

Spike sighed sadly. “That’s what you said last week,” he sadly complained under his breath. He then inquires aloud, “What can I help with this time?”

"I need to find a book on predictions and prophecies." Twilight looked through the various books piled on the floor while Spike climbed a ladder to a higher shelf.

"No, no, no, no no!" Twilight sighed as she levitated the books. "Any luck up there?"

Spike pulled out the very book she asked for. “Right here!” Suddenly, Spike lost his balance and the ladder tilted backwards. Twilight's magic quickly activated and caught Spike and the book. She gently levitated both down.

"Let's see. Elements… elements… e, e, e… aha! Elements of Harmony." She then read. "'See 'Mare in the Moon''?"

"Mare in the moon?" asked Spike in surprise. "But, that's an old breezie's tale." Spike knew firsthand that Twilight doesn’t usually look up something that had no official proof of ever having existed.

"Mare… mare… mare, ah ha!" She cried. "The Mare in the Moon, myth from olden pony times. A powerful pony who wanted to rule Equestria, defeated by the Elements of Harmony and imprisoned in the moon. Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about nighttime eternal." Twilight gasped aloud. “Spike, do you realize what this means?!”

“You’re reading too much into something that might not even be true?” the dragon quipped.

"No! It means that Nightmare Moon will return the day after tomorrow!" cried Twilight. "This year is the 1000th Summer Sun Celebration.”

Spike was beginning to lose patience. “You told me myths were stories that ponies made up to explain how things worked before science came around,” he said. “You literally just read the word ‘myth’ in the description!” While gesturing his arms to emphasize his point, Spike fell off the ladder he was using to put books away. Thinking quickly, Twilight positioned herself directly under Spike so he landed on her back.

“Just for future reference, I recommend NOT waving your arms around when you’re at the top of a high ladder again,” Twilight reprimanded. “I don’t want you getting hurt.”

Spike nodded. “Noted. But, I still think you’re reading too much into this.”

Twilight took a deep breath. “I heard about the Elements of Harmony in a story. That story mentioned a pony that raises the sun. And what does Princess Celestia do?”

"Raises the… sun…" Spike trailed off. "Okay. Maybe this old breezie's tale-slash-myth may have merit."

“And it’s a well-known fact that Princess Celestia is over 1,000 years old,” Twilight added. “The story I read mentioned that Nightmare Moon was the younger sister of the pony that raised the sun and was responsible for raising the moon beforehoof.”

Spike grew confused. “But, Princess Celestia doesn’t have a sister. I’m pretty sure we’d remember if she told us,” he reasoned.

"I still think we should investigate this further," said Twilight. Before she could say anymore, Spike burped out a scroll. Spike had the mysterious ability to send and receive scrolls through his dragon fire breath.

"Oh, I didn't write anything to Princess Celestia today," she shrugged and levitated it. "My dearest, most faithful student Twilight. I'm sending you to supervise the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration in this year's location: Ponyville."

“Ponyville? Isn’t it that town founded by earth ponies?” inquired the little dragon.

"I believe so," said Twilight. "Unusual request, but, as protegee to Princess Celestia, I will have to fulfill my royal duty."

Spike suddenly noticed something on the scroll. “Wait,” he said, “there’s a little more to the message.”

"Oh?" Sure enough, there was a notice at the bottom left corner of the scroll that read, “Continue reading on back →” Flipping the scroll, Twilight read on curiously.

“My dear Twilight, there is more to a young pony's life than studying, so I'm sending you to supervise the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration in this year's location: Ponyville. And, I have an even more essential task for you to complete: make some friends!” At the last part, Twilight groaned in annoyance.

“Come on, Twilight,” encouraged Spike. “This could be good for you.”

"I guess we'd better pack for this trip…" grunted Twilight.

“It’s not like I’m going anywhere,” Spike said sadly. “For the last few years, I’ve had to stay in this room all day.”

Once again, Twilight felt a twinge of pain in her heart. It had just occurred to her that she’d been keeping Spike indoors for that long and made her feel a bit guilty. “Okay, Spike,” she said. “You can come with me.”

“Really?!” Spike asked in excitement. Humorously, this caused the dragon’s tail to wag like a puppy’s. Twilight nodded and they went about to pack the suitcases, Spike eagerly helping.

The following day, they jumped into a chariot hauled by two pegasus guards and they flew to Ponyville. The town was far more modest than Canterlot and it seemed more peaceful, too.

"Thank you, sirs," said Twilight politely as she and Spike disembarked. As the guards flew away, Twilight got her list out and started to trot to her first stop on the list. Spike saw a pink earth pony mare with a darker pink mane and tail and blue eyes trotting towards them.

"Hi there," he greeted. "My name is–"

The pink pony let out a sharp gasp and briefly seemed to defy gravity before running off at the speed of a bullet before Spike had a chance to finish.

Spike felt indignant. “It’s because I’m a dragon, isn’t it?!”

Twilight sighed. "Hopefully, she's a once-off. Come on, let's get started on this checklist."

She gave the list to Spike, who carefully read it. “Looks like we’re going to a place called Sweet Apple Acres.”

The duo started heading to the location in question. It was a farm with a heavy apple theme that had clearly seen better days.

"Well, not many farms in Canterlot," Spike remarked.

The duo suddenly heard a loud “Yeehaw!” fill the air. A light orange earth pony with a blonde mane and tail and green eyes bucked a nearby apple tree. The ripe fruit fell right into the basket. Spike found such a feat amazing.

“That was incredible!” the young dragon blurted out, catching the farm mare’s attention.

"Ah, it's just takes a bit of practice," chuckled the farmer. Spike found himself in a state of surprise.

“Uh, aren’t you going to panic?” he asked.

The orange pony blinked. "Y’all ain't hurtin' mah family or mah home, so, there ain't no reason to."

“Huh. Kind of a refreshing change of pace,” Spike admitted. “Usually, the first time a pony sees me, their first instinct is to run, screaming, ‘Ah! Run! Hide! A dragon’s here!’”

"Uh… Ah see…" trailed the other pony. "Ah'm sorry ya have ta get that kind o’ treatment."

"Well, I'm glad you're being polite to Spike," said Twilight. "Oh, where are my manners? I'm Twilight Sparkle, and–"

"Well, howdy do, Twilight." the earth pony started shaking her hoof rapidly. "Ah'm Applejack!" grinned the other pony. "We here at Sweet Apple Acres love meetin’ new friends."

“Actually, I’m here for another reason…” Twilight said rather shakily. Applejack’s grip was similar to that of a vice. “You have a very strong grip…”

This made Applejack let go in embarrassment. "Heh… Sorry, sugarcube," she blushed. "Ah can get a bit excited."

“You don’t say…” Twilight said, her hoof still caught in the shaking motion until Spike grabbed it. “Thanks, Spike.” She cleared her throat. "Anyway, I hear you're in charge of the food."

"We sure as sugar are," grinned Applejack. "Y'all want ta sample some?"

Twilight did feel a bit peckish from the journey. “Well, I guess I could try something. As long as it doesn’t take too long. Out of curiosity, do you happen to make apple-flavored rock candy?"

Applejack raised an eyebrow. “Yeah. Why?”

Twilight explained, “Spike likes to eat gems, but, I’ve raised him to eat rock candy as an acceptable substitute.”

Applejack shrugged. "Fair enough," she took out a triangle and started ringing it. "Soup's on, everypony!"

Spike and Twilight suddenly found themselves getting swarmed by a stampede of earth ponies.

"What the– what is this?!" cried Twilight, overwhelmed by the sheer number of ponies in one place.

"The Apple Family Reunion," chuckled Applejack. "Let me introduce ya'll ta everypony."

Several different ponies brought treats that happened to be their namesakes and Applejack introduced every single one at rapid fire.

“This here's Apple Fritter. Apple Bumpkin. Red Gala. Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp…” she stopped for breath. “Big McIntosh, Apple Bloom, and Granny Smith.”

“I’m sensing a theme here,” Spike quipped. This triggered some hearty laughs from the Apple Family.

“Y’all got a sense o’ humor,” chuckled Applejack. “That’ll go far in this here town. Pinkie’ll be pleased as a junebug in the month o’ May ta meet ya.”

Spike tilted his head. “Who’s Pinkie?”

Applejack playfully noogied him. “Don’t you fret none, sugarcube. You’ll find out soon enough. Uh, yer stayin’ a while, right?”

Spike shrugged and honestly answered, “At least until the Summer Sun Celebration.” He then continued, rather sadly, “Then, I guess it’s back to being stuck in Twilight’s–”

He never got to finish as Twilight put a hoof over his mouth and nervously laughed, “Studies! Yeah, stuck in my studies! He’s a VERY curious dragon! If you’ll excuse me…” she slinked off with Spike into the barn before putting him down and speaking through grit teeth, “What in Tartarus are you doing, Spike?!”

Spike, taken aback by this, honestly says, “Uh, telling them that I’ll go back to being stuck in your room all day when this is over.”

“You can’t just go around saying stuff like that in public!” Twilight said in frustration.

“Why not?” queried the young dragon. The unicorn leaned close to his ear frond and whispered the explanation, causing the dragon to make shocked faces. “Ooooh… tsk… yeah… I’ll just not bring that bit up in public anymore.”

“Very good, Spike,” said Twilight. They went back to the Apple Family. “Sorry about that.”

“Aren't ya gonna stay for brunch?” asked Apple Bloom, the youngest member of the Apple Family that was present. She was bright yellow with a red mane and tail with orange eyes.

Unable to resist the filly’s puppy eyes, Twilight said, “Oh, okay.”

After sampling the Apple Family foods, Spike and Twilight headed out to check on other preparations. “Ugh…” groaned a rather stuffed Twilight. “I ate too much pie…”

“Food’s taken care of,” said Spike. “Now the weather.” He checked the list. “Hmm… there’s supposed to be a pegasus pony named Rainbow Dash clearing the clouds.”

Twilight looked up at the sky, seeing the sky covered in clouds. “Well, she’s not doing a very good job, is she? If she were here right now, I’d give her a piece of my mind.” But, just after she had said that, she was unexpectedly tackled into a mud puddle before she had a chance to react.

The perpetrator soon revealed itself in the form of a pegasus mare with the same blue coat color as the sky above. She had moderate purple eyes and a somewhat messy mane and tail in all the colors of the rainbow.

“Heh…” she said sheepishly. “Scuse me.” Twilight was less than pleased by this attack on her.

Spike found his voice first. “That was pretty fast. You must be a pro racer.”

“Well, I do like to race,” grinned the blue pony. “I got my cutie mark the day I discovered my love for it.”

Spike again found himself surprised. “You’re not scared that I’m a dragon?”

The blue pony chuckled. “Nah! You seem pretty harmless to me. Besides, if a big, scary dragon came here, I could totally take it on.”

“You’re the…” Spike began counting to himself. “...16th pony who didn’t panic at the sight of me today.”

“Let me guess, you got caught up in the Apple Family reunion?” the blue pony laughed. “Yeah, Applejack’s family is well known in Ponyville. Most of the ones you saw there don’t even live in town.”

Spike nodded. “We did, yeah.”

The pony saw Twilight still in the mud. “Oh, let me help you,” she pushed over a rain cloud and bounced on it several times. This caused it to rain on Twilight in a manner more akin to dumping a bucket of water on top of her.

“Oh, great…” groaned Twilight. “Now I’m drenched!”

“Ooh… Guess I overdid it,” said the pegasus. “Never mind, I can fix that.” She started to fly around Twilight very quickly. “My very own patented Rain-Blow Dry!”

The pegasus surrounded Twilight in a swirl of rainbow colored light, so as to blow every drop of water off her body.

“No no, don’t thank me. You’re quite welcome,” the pony grinned. However, upon inspection, she saw that Twilight’s mane and tail got all poofed up (making the unicorn look ridiculous).

The blue pegasus grinned before rolling on the floor laughing and Spike couldn’t help but laugh, too.

“Shot in the dark, but, you’re Rainbow Dash, aren’t you?” Twilight bitterly asked the laughing pegasus.

“The one and only!” grinned Rainbow Dash as she scrambled up. Spike grabbed onto her sides to keep himself from getting thrown off. “Why, you’ve heard of me?”

“We heard that you’re in charge of the weather detail for the Summer Sun Celebration,” Spike explained. He then remembered his position. “Uh, could you maybe lower yourself a bit so I can get down?”

“Oh, sure. Sorry, little guy,” apologized the pegasus as she knelt down. “What’d you say your name was?”

“Spike,” said the dragon.

“And I’m Twilight Sparkle,” added the unicorn. “And I have to say, you’re doing a very subpar job with the weather.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Rainbow said nonchalantly. “That’ll be a snap. I’ll do it in a jiffy. Just as soon as I’m done practicing.”

Twilight was skeptical. “Practicing what? Slacking off when you have a job to do?” she said.

“No!” snapped Rainbow Dash. “I’m practicing for the Wonderbolts! They’ll be performing tomorrow and I’m going to show them my stuff!”

“The Wonderbolts?” said Twilight, making sure she heard right. “The most talented flyers in all of Equestria and Pegasus Military group?”

“Yep,” confirmed the pegasus.

“Well, what good is a pegasus to the Wonderbolts if she can’t keep the sky clear for one measly day?” scoffed Twilight.

Rainbow felt challenged. “I could clear these clouds in 10 seconds flat!”

“Prove it,” challenged Twilight.

“Gladly,” said the brash pegasus before pulling a stopwatch out of seemingly nowhere and holding it before Spike. “Ever use a stopwatch before, kid?”

“Yes, actually,” Spike admitted. “Whenever Twilight asks me to time her book organizing sessions.”

“Then, you won’t have a problem using this, will you?” said Rainbow.

Spike nodded. “Whenever you want me to.”

“Go!”

As soon as Spike hit the button, Rainbow Dash zipped all over the sky. In seconds, it was clear and Spike stopped the watch.

“And the result?” said a rather cocky Rainbow.

Spike checked the stopwatch. “It says 10.46 seconds.”

“What?!” Rainbow checked the stopwatch and sure enough, the readout was as Spike said. “Nuts! I’m seriously coming up short!”

Twilight was bewildered. “THAT’S coming up short?!”

“Yeah,” said Rainbow Dash. “I was the fastest in both Summer Flight Camp and Junior Speedsters.”

“10.46 seconds is still pretty fast,” said Spike, trying to be supportive.

“Well, I guess so,” said Rainbow Dash. “We should totally hang out some more.”

Twilight shook off the surprise and she and Spike headed off again. “What’s next, Spike?” she asked.

Spike checked the list. “Decorations. They’re being overseen by a unicorn named Rarity.”

Twilight and Spike headed for the hall where the ceremony was going to be held. In the hall was a white unicorn with a mulberry purple mane and tail and blue eyes. Spike saw her and thought she was the most beautiful thing ever. But, he quickly pushed such thoughts away upon remembering how quite a few unicorns gave him the cold shoulder.

“No… no… no… oh, goodness no…” said the unicorn, going through ribbons of various colors.

“Excuse me,” called Twilight.

“Just a moment, darling,” called the white unicorn. “I’m in the zone, as it were.” she manages to come across a ribbon she’s happy with. “Oh, yes. Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why, Rarity, you are a talent.” Rarity turned her attention to Twilight and Spike. “Now… may I help yo– whoa!” she cried. “Oh my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure?!”

“Oh, you mean my mane?” Twilight asked, piecing together what she meant. “It’s a long story. We’re just here to check on the decorations. We’ve done that, so, we’ll be out of your hair.”

“Out of my hair?” cried Rarity. “What about your hair? Do come, darling, I can help fix that.” She began pushing a protesting Twilight in another direction. Spike silently followed, a somewhat sad look on his face.

Soon, the trio were at a building resembling a carousel. “Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where every garment is chic, unique, and magnifique,” said the white unicorn.

“Huh. That’s kind of catchy,” Twilight had to admit. “You make that up yourself?”

“I sure did,” smiled Rarity. “Now, what can I do with your mane…” Rarity opened a drawer of hair care supplies. “Oh, where are my manners? I haven’t asked your name, darling. While you’re at it, why don’t you introduce your charming little friend over there.”

Confused, Spike looked around where Rarity pointed her hoof. Seeing no other creatures in that direction, Spike quickly realized what she meant. “Wait, are you calling ME charming?” the dragon asked while pointing to himself in a surprised tone of voice, which Rarity picked up on.

“You seem surprised, darling,” said the white unicorn.

“I am,” Spike confessed. “Usually, I’m called stuff like ‘overgrown lizard,’ ‘beastly,’ ‘ghastly,’ or ‘scale-ridden freak.’”

Rarity was taken aback by the young dragon being called such derogatory terms. “That’s simply dreadful!” she said.

“Believe it or not,” Spike said, “those are actually some of the NICER things said about me.”

Rarity grew even more disgusted that such a little thing could be insulted so much that THOSE terms were considered nice in comparison. “I find it shocking that a young creature like you could be insulted so blithely!”

“You’re probably thinking those things because I’m a dragon right now,” said a dejected Spike.

“Absolutely not!” declared Rarity. “I’m a lady and a lady doesn’t disparage one for problems they have no control over. Now, tell me your name.”

“Spike,” admitted the dragon. “You’re the 17th pony I’ve met today that didn’t have a problem with me being a dragon.”

“Over at Sweet Apple Acres?” asked Rarity. “Heh, yes, that would account for it. Applejack does mention her apple family reunions a lot.”

“We also saw Rainbow Dash,” said Twilight.

“I take it she was responsible for the state of your mane and tail?” questioned Rarity.

Twilight sighed and nodded. “You know her, too?”

“I sure do,” said Rarity. “She moved to Ponyville on her birthday one year and I met her while she was practicing her tricks. Admittedly, I didn’t think much of her at the time, but, I’ve come to see her better qualities. Though, her recklessness still grates on my nerves at times. To say nothing of her tendency to slack off.”

“Oh, I’m Twilight Sparkle, by the way,” said the lavender unicorn, remembering she hadn’t introduced herself.

“A pleasure to meet you, darling,” said Rarity, brushing Twilight’s mane. The lavender unicorn began to feel rather relaxed from this. More relaxed than she had felt all day, if she was honest with herself. Having their manes brushed tended to have that effect on ponies. Mares especially.

“This feels long overdue,” Twilight admitted. “I only regret that I don’t have any bits to pay for this.” Bits were gold or silver coins used as the standard currency throughout Equestria.

“Oh, there’s no need to worry about that,” said Rarity. “It’s all free. It’s part of my newcomer appreciation policy. I give newcomers clearly in need a makeover free of charge.”

Twilight had never heard such a policy before. “That doesn’t sound like a very sound business strategy,” she commented. “It sounds like it could be easily exploited.”

Rarity merely scoffed. “Many have tried, but, none succeeded. And it’s all thanks to these.” Rarity pointed a hoof to her eyes with an apparent sense of pride.

“Uh… okay,” said Twilight. “How exactly do your eyes help?”

“I was born with the Mystic Eyes of Detail,” Rarity explained. “They allow me to notice smaller details most ponies overlook.”

Spike and Twilight were impressed. “Sounds like it comes in handy,” said Spike.

“Oh, it has its uses,” Rarity said modestly yet proudly. “Although, they work better from a distance. So, I have to wear work glasses for more up-close jobs.”

Rarity then began fitting Twilight in various saddles.

“Too green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too... shiny. Now go on, my dear. You were telling me where you're from,” Rarity said, going through those saddle before tightening Twilight’s current saddle the same way humans tighten a corset. Despite the increasing tightness, Twilight made an effort to speak.

“Spike and I… were sent…” she said while wincing. “From Canterlot… to–”

Rarity heard “Canterlot” and let go of the laces.

“Canterlot?!” she exclaimed. “Oh, I am so envious! The glamor, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living there! I can’t wait to hear all about it!”

Spike rubbed the back of his head. “Honestly, I don’t really have much to tell,” he admitted. “I can’t even remember the last time I walked around in public there. I usually stay indoors so nopony judges me because of…” He gestured to his entire body. “All this.”

Rarity remembered the discrimination Spike said he faced. “Surely not EVERYPONY in Canterlot judges you that way.”

Spike nodded and admitted, “Twilight’s family, her foalsitter Cadence, Princess Celeatia, and her friends, Twinkleshine, Minuette, Lemon Hearts, and Moon Dancer are pretty much the only ponies in all of Canterlot who treat me like an equal.”

“That's still quite a lot of ponies,” said Rarity.

“Yeah,” Spike admitted, “but, I haven’t seen the last four in a long time. Me and Twilight usually have to wait for THEM to visit US.”

Rarity rubbed his head. “I hope you’ll find Ponyville a more welcoming place,” she said.

Spike nodded. “Oh, I do,” he said. “I’ve encountered 18 ponies since coming here and only one of them seems to have a problem with me being a dragon.”

“I bet I can guess who,” sighed Rarity grimly. “Watch your step around her, darling.”

“Got it,” he said. “I’ll keep an eye out for that pink pony with the cotton candy mane and tail.”

“Oh, good heavens!” Cried Rarity. “You don't mean Pinkie Pie? What did she say?”

“It’s more what she DIDN’T say,” Spike admitted. “Just as I was introducing myself, she made a deep gasp and ran away without a word.”

“Well… that means something else entirely, darling,” chuckled Rarity. “Pinkie’s a very… eccentric mare. Even those of us who have lived here for a while and gotten to know her have trouble understanding her. Though, she’s MUCH more friendly than the pony I thought you met.”

“And that pony is…” said Twilight.

“Spoiled Rich,” Rarity said. “Wife of the local business stallion, Filthy Rich. Their daughter, Diamond Tiara, hasn't been polite to my sister, Sweetie Belle, or her friend, Scootaloo.”

“With names like those, they’re pretty much begging them to become corporate scumbags,” Spike snidely commented.

“Oh, Filthy Rich is actually a decent stallion,” said Rarity. “All the same, he prefers not to be called just Filthy. I’ve heard rumors that he plans on changing his given name to Berry. Though, considering the source of the rumors, I’d take it with a grain of salt.”

“I understand either way,” said Twilight. “Now, I don’t mean to come off as rude, but, me and Spike came here to check on preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. So, if it’s all the same to you, I think we’ll be on our way to check the last thing on the list.”

“Well, the decorations are all under control,” said Rarity.

Twilight tried hard to hide a sigh of relief as she levitated Spike onto her back before walking out of the boutique. “That was close,” Twilight said. “I thought we’d be there until she decided to dye my fur a different color.”

“She was wonderful,” smiled Spike, giving a giggle.

“Focus, casanova,” reprimanded Twilight. “What's the last thing on the list?”

“Oh, uh… Music,” said Spike, stirred from his daydreaming.

A yellow pegasus with a soft pink mane and tail and blue eyes was fluttering around, conducting a bird choir. The birds in colors of blue, yellow, and green started tweeting in harmony. However, one bird wasn't doing it right.

“Oh, stop please, everyone,” said the yellow pegasus. To the amazement of Twilight and Spike, the birds stopped at once, as if they understood the pegasus. “Umm. Excuse me, sir?” The pegasus addressed the bird, “I mean no offense, but, your rhythm is just a teeny-tiny bit off.”

“Is she talking to those birds?” Spike whispered to Twilight.

“Apparently,” gasped Twilight quietly.

With the bird opting to try again, the pegasus flew to near the tree. “Now, follow me, please. A 1, a 2, a 1, 2, 3–”

It was at precisely this moment that Twilight opted to speak up and make herself heard. “Hello!” She greeted, perhaps a bit louder than she had intended since it not only startled the pegasus (who let out a yelp), but, also caused the songbirds to scatter.

“Smooth move, Twilight,” whispered Spike as he stayed out of the pegasus mare’s sight. Twilight approached the yellow mare.

“I am so sorry,” sighed Twilight. “I didn't mean to frighten your birds away. I was just tasked to check on the music and it sounded beautiful. I could see that you were talking to those birds. Are you by any chance a critter whisperer?”

The yellow pegasus gave a small nod. A critter whisperer was a rare type of pony with the seemingly mystical ability to communicate with non-sentient creatures. A pegasus critter whisperer was especially rare since pegasi usually lived in the clouds.

This particular one was being more quiet than the previous ponies Twilight met that day alone. She cleared her throat and said, “I’m Twilight Sparkle. What’s your name?”

The pegasus pony merely whispered something Twilight couldn't hear. “I’m sorry, what was that?”

Again, the pegasus could barely get her words out.

“Didn't quite catch that.”

This time, the pegasus' words were a squeak. Twilight did her best to hide her shrinking reserve of patience as she noticed the birds return.

“Well, it looks like your birds are back,” said Twilight. “So, it looks like everything’s in order. Keep up the good work.”

She trotted back over to Spike, who stepped out of the bushes.

“That was easy,” Twilight commented.

The yellow pegasus' blue eyes shone brighter than before upon seeing Spike. A switch seemed to flip on her personality as she suddenly exclaimed in excitement. “A baby dragon!”

The birds flew away in surprise and she accidentally knocked Twilight back to get a better look at Spike. “I've never seen a baby dragon before! He's so cute!”

Spike was as surprised as the birds. “Guess that’s number 18,” he said.

“Oh my, he talks!” cried the pegasus. “I didn't know dragons could talk Ponish.” Ponish was the language of the inhabitants of Equestria. “That's just so incredibly wonderful! I just don't even know what to say! How did you learn to speak Ponish?”

Spike honestly answered, “Uh… my adopted siblings and parents taught me. The unicorn over there is my adoptive sister.”

“Wow!” cried the pegasus. “Your parents adopted a baby dragon? That's so sweet.”

Twilight was surprised. “You really think so?”

“It sure is,” said the pegasus. “I take in baby animals all the time, but, having a sibling of another kind is such a sweet feeling. Where did you find his egg?”

Twilight wasn’t prepared for this. “Well, you see,” she said nervously. “I actually hatched Spike from an egg as part of my entrance exam ten years ago.”

“Whoa!” Gasped the pegasus. “That must have been a tricky spell.”

Twilight admitted, “Honestly, it just happened with a sudden surge of magic. Princess Celestia tasked… My parents, brother, and I with raising him. I did a lot of the work, though.”

“No wonder you two are so close," said the pegasus. “Does he have a name?”

"My name is Spike."

“Hello, Spike. I’m Fluttershy,” the pegasus finally introduced herself.

“Well, Fluttershy,” said Spike. “You’re the 18th pony in a row I’ve met today that doesn’t seem to have a problem with me being a dragon.”

“Saw Applejack’s large family, right?” Fluttershy giggled.

“Yeah. That Apple Family’s kind of a big deal here, aren’t they?” Spike commented.

“They founded the town,” said Fluttershy. “Though if it was Granny Smith or a most distant ancestor, I'm not sure. Record keeping wasn’t very reliable back then.”

“Really?” said a surprised Spike. “If that’s the case, shouldn’t their farm be in a better state than it is?”

“I guess that'll be something to figure out later,” said Twilight. She levitated him on her back. “Do you know where the Golden Oak Library is?”

“I can actually walk you there,” Fluttershy offered. “I regularly borrowed animal care books from there until Miss Novel, the librarian, moved to Baltimare last week.”

“That would be appreciated,” thanked Twilight.

The two ponies began their trek to the library while Fluttershy looked at Spike curiously. “Spike? Is it true that dragons eat gemstones?” asked the curious pegasus.

“Well, it’s true for ME at least,” the young dragon answered honestly. “Though, rock candy is an acceptable substitute.”

Fluttershy leaned closer. “What do gems taste like?” she asked. Twilight sighed, knowing that she was in for a long walk.

“Well, it depends on the type of gem,” Spike explained. “Emeralds are my personal favorite. They taste like sour apples. And sapphires come really close at second place. They taste like blue raspberries.”

“Blue raspberries?” gasped Fluttershy. “I don’t think I’ve heard of fruits like that, much less gems that taste like them.”

“It’s more of a flavoring than an actual fruit,” Spike explained. “I happen to have some rock candy of that flavor right now. Would you like to try it?”

“If it’s alright with you,” Fluttershy accepted. Spike gave her a piece of blue raspberry rock candy, which the pegasus tasted for herself. “Hmm… a bit tart, but, not bad. What do diamonds taste like?”

Spike winced. “Well, I tried eating diamonds once. I broke a few teeth,” he admitted.

Fluttershy winced. “That must have been painful…”

“You don’t know the half of it,” Spike agreed. “Luckily, Princess Celestia was able to fix that.”

Fluttershy was surprised. “She can do that?”

Spike was incredulous. “We’re talking about the one pony who can not only raise and lower the sun and moon, but, has done so for at LEAST a thousand years and never aged a day in years,” he commented. “Is it really THAT surprising?”

“Well, when you say it like that, not really,” said Fluttershy. “So, what do other gems taste like?”

Spike carefully remembered some gem flavors. “Well, rubies taste like cherries, citrines taste like lemons, topaz taste like oranges, peridots taste like limes, amethysts taste like grapes, quartz tastes like vanilla, onyx tastes like black licorice, opals taste like fruit punch, and andalusite tastes like chocolate.”

Fluttershy gave a look of intrigue. “All we do with gems is use them to decorate or pay for things. You'd definitely get more use out of them. Even if it’s as a snack.”

“Well, it takes a long time for gems to form,” Spike said. “And with so many dragons eating so many, they’ll run out soon. So, Twilight raised me to eat rock candy as an acceptable substitute. Rock candy can be made in less than a day.”

“Oh. That makes sense,” the pegasus admitted. “How has your life been until now?”

Twilight, meanwhile, was relieved to see a huge oak tree with a beehive resting on one of its branches. The sign she saw confirmed the obvious, this was the Golden Oak Library she would be staying in for the duration of her time in Ponyville. “I am so sorry, how did we get here so fast?” She spoke up in an impatient tone of voice. “This is where we'll be staying for the time being. And right now, my poor baby dragon needs his sleep.”

“What?” cried Spike. “No I don’t–” but, Twilight knocked him off her back.

“Aww,” said Twilight in a baby-like way, “he’s so sweepy, he can’t keep his widdle bawance.” Spike was less than amused. He didn’t get a chance to talk back, though, as Fluttershy scooped him up.

“Oh, you poor thing,” said Fluttershy as she started to head into the library. “You simply must get into bed.”

Twilight used her magic to pull Spike close to her and push Fluttershy out. “Yes, I’ll get right on that. Good day,” she said, slamming the door.

“Did you really need to do that?” Spike asked with indignation. Neither of them noticed the door had swung open and closed during their argument. “You know that in pony years, I’m ten years old.”

“Sorry, Spike,” sighed Twilight. “I just don’t know what these ponies would think if they…” she broke off in confusion. “Where’s the light?”

Suddenly, the lights came on on their own, revealing several ponies shouting, “SURPRISE!”

“Hi!” cried an excitable voice. “I’m Pinkie Pie, and I threw this surprise party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Huh, huh, huh?!”

Twilight and Spike stared up at the pony in question in shock. No doubt this was the same one that Rarity talked about and the one who saw them as they strolled right into the town. Spike eyed her suspiciously. “I remember you. Out of all the ponies we met today, you’re the only one who seemed to have a problem with me being a dragon.”

“What?!” cried Pinkie. “Oh, no no no no! That wasn’t it at all. Y’see, I saw you when you first got here. You were all ‘hello’ and I was all,” she let out the same gasp she did when she saw the duo, “remember? Y’see I’ve never seen you before and if I’ve never seen you before that means you’re new, ‘cause I know everypony and I mean everypony in Ponyville! And if you’re new, that meant you haven’t met anyone yet and if you haven’t met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don’t have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, then, I had an idea, and that’s why I went…” she let out her gasp again. “I must throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends!”

Spike found himself dizzy trying to understand Pinkie’s logic. “You don’t think I’m a monster?”

“Oh, you cute little silly willy,” Pinkie explained. “That wasn't my ‘there's a scary dangerous monster’ gasp. That was my, ‘There are new folks in Ponyville and I have to throw a party for them so they can make friends here’ gasp.”

“A bit eccentric,” said Rarity. She was with Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy, “but, otherwise a good soul deep down.”

Spike was somewhat relieved. “I’ve gotten gasps like that in Canterlot,” he confessed. “From experience, the ones doing it thought I was some kind of monster because, you know, dragon.”

Pinkie’s face shifted into a sincerely apologetic one. “I’m sorry,” she said. “I didn’t know.”

“It’s okay,” said Spike.

“Though, just a reminder,” sighed Twilight. “Libraries are supposed to be quiet.”

“Well, that’s silly! What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet?” giggled Pinkie. “I mean, duh, bo-ring!” She then gave Spike a cupcake. “Here’s one of my specialty cupcakes. And here’s one for you, too.” She gave one to Twilight.

“Ooh, you’re in for quite a treat,” Rarity said. “Pinkie’s specialty cupcakes are simply divine.”

Twilight simply put her cupcake on the table containing beverages while pouring what she thought was a beverage for herself. Spike tried his cupcake and was amazed by the perfect blend of chocolate, vanilla, and buttercream frosting.

“Wow, this is great, Pinkie Pie!” he grinned. “Where’d you learn this?”

“From Mr. and Mrs. Cake,” smiled Pinkie. “They live at Sugarcube Corner. They’re sort of like my second dad and mom.”

Spike raised an eyebrow. “Second dad and mom? What happened to the first ones?”

“Oh, my parents are still around,” said Pinkie, “they just live super far away. I wasn’t cut out for the family business, so, I decided to try my luck here.”

“What was your old family business?” Spike asked. “Something to do with pie?”

Pinkie giggled. “No, we farmed rocks! My three sisters and parents are really into it, but… it wasn’t for me.”

“So, your family runs a quarry?” Spike asked, innocently.

“Hmm…” Pinkie pondered to herself. “I guess you could say that.”

“I’m not exactly a farm expert,” Spike admitted, “but, I’m pretty sure rocks are mined. Not farmed. Then, again, I haven’t really gotten out much in the last few years, so, maybe take my input with a grain of salt.”

Just then, Spike and the other five ponies Twilight met that day looked over to see her looking red in the face.

“Are ya alright, sugarcube?” asked Applejack.

Twilight’s response came in the form of her mane and tail bursting into flames before she dashed off to find some milk.

“Huh?” Spike picked up the bottle Twilight used to pour herself a drink. “Hot sauce… No wonder she reacted that way. She can’t handle her spice.”

“Oh… my…” winced Fluttershy.

“Okay, who put the hot sauce near the drinks?” asked Applejack.

“Oh, that’s my bad,” Pinkie admitted. “That was supposed to be at the snacks table.”

“Hey!” cried another pony. This one was a yellow earth pony with a brown mane and tail. “Who put this soda at the snack table? My hay fries are soggy.”

“Sorry, Caramel!” cried Pinkie. “I mixed up the soda and hot sauce.” She went to swap them back and gave Caramel a fresh plate of hay fries.

“Thanks, Pinkie,” said Caramel.

Pinkie gave him a knowing grin. “You know, Applejack’s here, too,” she said, coyly.

“Oh, sh-she is?” he asked in surprise. “Oh… that’s cool.” He stepped off with a bashful grin and a bright blush.

“What’s with him?” Spike asked.

“Oh, I think I know,” chuckled Rainbow Dash.

“You’ll find out when you’re a bit older,” added Fluttershy.

Spike shrugged and drank the rest of the hot sauce Twilight poured herself. To the amazement of the ponies, he doesn’t even wince. Rainbow found her voice first. “Did you just down hot sauce without wincing?”

“Us dragons are fireproof,” he chuckled. “I never tried it, but, I could dive into lava without a scorch.”

“Um, if you never tried it before, I don’t think you should be so confident,” Fluttershy said with concern.

“You still earned a few awesome points in my book,” Rainbow said.

Spike gave a grin at the five ponies. “I think I’m going to like it in Ponyville.”

Rarity stepped up to Spike. “Out of curiosity, do you eat gemstones?”

Spike nodded. “I told Fluttershy about it on the way here.”

“Twilight said that ya eat rock candy as a substitute,” Applejack added.

“That’s right,” Spike admitted. “Sometimes, me and Twilight play a game of ‘Guess the Gemstone.’”

“How do you and Twilight play?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“Well, first, I get blindfolded,” Spike explained. “Then, a bunch of gems are put in a pile in front of me. Then, the other players bring one gem to me so I can take a bite out of it to guess what kind of gem it is. If I guess right, I can eat the rest of it. If I guess wrong, the other player gets it.”

“That sounds like fun!” grinned Pinkie. “Speaking of blindfolds, ever played Pin the Tail on the Pony?”

“I’ve played something LIKE it,” Spike admitted. “Though, in that case, it was a donkey.”

“Well, we’ve got Pin the Tail on the Pony here if you want to play that with us,” Pinkie grinned.

Spike was only too eager to accept. “I’m game.”

While Spike and the other five partied away downstairs, Twilight just wanted to get away from it. She had to figure out this prophecy that she had read about earlier and she couldn’t do it with everyone blaring loud music and playing games downstairs. Plus… what would they think of her raising Spike as a filly?!

Late into the night, the party was still raging on. Twilight’s already thin patience grew thinner. “Do these ponies ever NOT party?” she groaned and sighed. “On the longest day of the 1000th year, the stars will aid in her escape and she will bring about everlasting night.” She looked in her book and saw four stars surrounding the moon move closer to it. “And just what are these Elements of Harmony?”

She was interrupted from her thoughts when Spike entered. “C’mon, Twilight!” he called. “It’s time to watch the sunrise!”

Twilight did have to admit, she loved watching Celestia raise the sun. She walked outside to join the large crowd down at the Town Hall. Among the crowd were some fillies - Apple Bloom, the one she had met at the Apple Family reunion, a white unicorn with pink and purple mane and tail, and an orange pegasus with a dark pink mane and tail. Like Apple Bloom, the other two were blank flanks.

“Could that white filly be Sweetie Belle?” she wondered to herself. Her pondering was cut short when Pinkie seemed to appear out of nowhere.

“Isn't this exciting?” she cried. “Are you excited, 'cause I'm excited, I've never been so excited— well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went…” she took a deep gasp. “But, I mean really, who can top that?”

A very important looking mare stepped out from the podium and addressed the crowd. “Fillies and gentlecolts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration!”

The ponies all cheered at the announcement.

“In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year!” the mayor continued.

Twilight, however, turned her attention to the moon. The four stars had come so close, they were no longer visible. The imagery of a mare’s head seen on the moon vanished.

“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…”

At this, Fluttershy signaled to her birds. “Ready?” she whispered. The birds nodded.

“Princess Celestia!”

Right on cue, Fluttershy conducted her birds into a fanfare as Rarity drew the curtains. However, everyone stared up in shock.

“Wh-where is she?!” squeaked the white unicorn filly.

“Uh, maybe she’s just playing a joke,” suggested Spike. “She IS known for her sense of humor.”

“Wait, really?” asked the orange pegasus filly.

“You don’t know about it?” Spike said, surprised.

“She doesn’t get out to Ponyville too much,” admitted Apple Bloom. “Ah think the last time she came was about a month ago.”

“Still,” said Rainbow Dash. “You’d think she would have jumped out by now if she did prank us.”

Suddenly, a purplish blue mist appeared in the middle of the stage and an alicorn in a dark blue - almost black - color appeared.

“Oh no…” Twilight whispered under her breath. “Nightmare Moon.”

“Oh, my beloved subjects,” the intruder said. “It’s been so long since I've seen your precious little sun-loving faces.”

Many of the ponies cowered together. Apple Bloom hugged the white unicorn and orange pegasus fillies tightly. “Normally, I wouldn’t be this close to a stranger,” said the unicorn. “But, right now, I’m terrified beyond the capacity for rational thought.”

“S-same here,” agreed the orange pegasus.

“Y’all ain’t the only ones,” said Apple Bloom.

“What did you do with our princess?!” snapped Rainbow Dash. She started to charge toward the intruder only for Applejack to grab her by the tail.

“Whoa there, nelly,” she said through her teeth.

“Oh, isn’t that typical,” the alicorn said, venom dripping from every word. “You all worship my sister, yet leave me with nothing.”

“You’re not the Princess’ sister!” cried Pinkie in shock. “Celestia would never have a demonic being as–” Applejack stuffed a cupcake in Pinkie’s mouth.

“Really?” the alicorn said, growing angrier. “Do none of you remember who I am? Or did that biased Celestia erase any mention of me from history over these 1000 years?”

“There was one mention!” cried Twilight. “I’ve read a legend about it. You’re the mare in the moon. Nightmare Moon.”

As the ponies in the crowd all gasped in shock, the alicorn seemed to have a wicked grin. “So, someone DOES remember me. Pity it won’t do you any good now! Remember this day, little ponies. Because it was your last. From this moment on, the night, will last, FOREVER!” The alicorn laughed wickedly as her mane and tail became a cloudy vortex.

Spike glanced up at Twilight. “Well… looks like some legends really are true.”

[To be Continued…]

Chapter 2: The Elements of Harmony (S1:E2)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell, Blake Hawkins, and Rachel Ravens

Chapter 2: The Elements of Harmony

Twilight Sparkle had just finished wrapping her head around everything that had happened within the last two days. On the first day, she’d come across mention of something known as the Elements of Harmony and learned that they were used to vanquish a demonic alicorn named Nightmare Moon. On the second day, she’d been sent to Ponyville to check on preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration and make friends (the latter assignment, she planned to put off to find evidence of Nightmare Moon). Since arriving in Ponyville, she’d encountered several ponies who all treated her and Spike like equals. She only bothered to remember the names of five of the ponies: Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie. However, she didn’t really make an effort to bond with them since she felt that doing so would be pointless since she’d be back in Canterlot once the celebration was over and would never see them again. After a sleepless night, Twilight began hoping that the legend of Nightmare Moon was just that, a legend. Sadly, as the morning hours approached, she quickly learned that fate had other plans. Now, she was in the same room as the very demonic alicorn banished to the moon 1000 years ago. Twilight had never hoped she was wrong anymore than she did at that moment.

“Seize her!" demanded Mayor Mare to the royal guards. “Only she knows where the Princess is!”

The royal guards launched at Nightmare Moon. The alicorn didn’t even cringe. “Let’s see if Celestia’s guards are actually competent after these 1000 years,” she said.

The pegasus guards managed to kick Nightmare Moon's back and the unicorn guards held tight with telekinesis. But, with a single bolt of lightning created by the alicorn, the guards were all knocked back. “What in Tartarus is this?!” demanded the alicorn. “My sister’s guards from 1000 years ago were defeated by me, but, they still put up a better fight than THAT!”

“To be fair,” said Shining Armor, “none of the current guard’s foes were an alicorn demon from 1000 years ago!”

“Excuses!” yelled the demonic mare before turning into a cloud of mist. She rushed through the door with Rainbow in pursuit.

“Come back here!” she cried, flying out into the dark. “Nighttime… forever?” In the corner of her eye, she saw Twilight and Spike headed back to the library. “Where’s she going?”

“Big Mac,” called Applejack over her shoulder, “y’all walk Apple Bloom home. Ah have somethin’ ah need to do.”

The big red stallion nodded while Shining Armor tended to the wounded guards. Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy, exchanging confused looks, decided to see what was happening.

At the library, Spike started looking for a book on the Elements of Harmony, struggling to stay awake.

“We’ve got to stop… nightmare…”

“You’ve been up all night, Spike,” whispered Twilight. “You are a baby dragon after all.”

Spike woke up with a start. “I don’t care!” he said. “I’m going to help those ponies if it’s the last thing I do!”

Twilight grew concerned. Oh, Spike, that bad habit of yours is kicking in at full force, she thought to herself.

“I’m going to find a book on the Elements of Harmony even if I have to do it myself,” Spike declared. At that moment, a suspicious Rainbow Dash decided to make herself known.

“And just what ARE the Elements of Harmony?!” demanded Rainbow. “And how did you know about Nightmare Moon? Are you a spy?!” Applejack grabbed Rainbow’s tail to reign her in again.

“Simmer down, Sally.” drawled Applejack. “She ain’t no spy. But, she sure seems to know what’s going on. Doncha, Twilight?”

The others looked at her with concern and Twilight knew that it was best if she was upfront with them. “I read about Nightmare Moon from a story called the Legend of the Two Sisters.”

“I thought that was just an old breezie’s tale,” Rarity said.

“I thought that, too,” admitted Spike. “But, Twilight pointed out that one of the sisters raised the sun and moon, just like Princess Celestia.”

“I see,” said Rarity. “Anyway, Twilight, please continue.”

“The Elements of Harmony were objects used to send Nightmare Moon to the moon in the first place,” Twilight explained. “Since they did so once, it stands to reason that they could do so again. Celestia sent me and Spike here to check on the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration and make friends. I was more concerned with finding a way to stop Nightmare Moon than do the latter.”

“No wonder you seemed so impatient,” Fluttershy said. “Why didn’t you tell any of us?”

“Would you have believed me, though?" Twilight glumly commented as her lips quivered. "Even I began to doubt myself. I began to hope that I was wrong even though everything told me I was right. Besides, even if I had told you, it wouldn't have mattered. There's nothing any of you could've done to prevent this. Princess Celestia is the one who defeated Nightmare Moon all those years ago, not me. I'm but her student and as gifted as I am, I'm not strong enough to take on an alicorn on my own," She then sought to change the subject. "The only lead I have are these Elements of Harmony. They're what Princess Celestia used to defeat Nightmare Moon. Maybe finding them could send Nightmare back to the moon."

“Uh, I don’t think that’s such a good idea, Twilight,” said Spike. “If we send her back to the moon, she’ll just escape again in 1000 years.”

“Hmm,” Twilight said. “That’s true. Though, I don’t exactly know how Princess Celestia used them before. I don’t know what the Elements of Harmony are, where to find them, or what they do.”

“Maybe this book will help,” said Pinkie. “‘The Elements of Harmony: A reference guide by Clover the Clever.’”

“What?!” Twilight asked in shocked splendor. “Where did you find this?!”

“It was under ‘E,’” the pink pony stated plainly.

“Oh.” Twilight said in an embarrassed tone. She then opened the reference guide to a particular page within. Little did she know that Nightmare Moon was listening. “‘There are six Elements of Harmony, but, only five are known: Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty, and Loyalty. The sixth is a complete mystery. The last known location of the five Elements of Harmony is in the ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters. This is located in what is now…’” Twilight’s eyes went wide as she dropped the book. The others grew concerned.

“Where?” said Rainbow.

“The Everfree Forest,” Twilight answered.

“The Everfree Forest?!” Exclaimed the five Ponyville residents.

Spike stood with a look of determination. “Well, what are we waiting for,” he said. “Let’s go!”

Twilight wasn’t hearing any of it. “Please, Spike. I have enough on my plate as it is without your bad habit kicking in.” The other five mares overheard this.

“Twilight,” Applejack said in a firm voice. “Given that we’re about ta venture into a dark n’ scary forest at night, it wouldn’t be a good idea ta leave Spike here on his lonesome. It’d be better if ya took him along ta keep an eye out fer him.”

Spike nodded. “These ponies have shown me more respect in a single day than I usually get in a week,” he reaffirmed. “It just wouldn’t feel right if I just sat on my claws without trying to help them. I’ve made up my mind.”

Twilight knew that once Spike made up his mind on something, there was no changing it. She’d tried many times with no success. So, she relented. “Fine. But, you’re staying by my side,” she stated.

Soon, the group was standing outside the entrance of the forest. Its trees were tall and had rather dismal looking foliage. It was clear that the forest wasn’t like any other forest. “Whee!” cried Pinkie. “Let’s go!”

“This will be a risky operation,” Twilight said. “I would rather if Spike and I just did this on our own.”

“Look here,” Rainbow interjected. “I do stupid stuff for kicks and giggles, but, even I’M smart enough to not go in there alone.”

“Yeah,” Applejack smirked. “We’re stickin’ ta y’all like caramel on a candy apple.”

She and the other Ponyville mares trotted into the forest. “Especially if we find some in there,” Pinkie added.

Twilight and Spike look at Pinkie in confusion. “You expect to find candy apples in a forest where ponies usually AVOID going into?” Spike questioned.

“Well,” Pinkie said. “nopony’s ever tried. You never know.” She trotted off.

“I have some concerns about what goes on in that mare’s head,” Spike whispered to Twilight.

Twilight nods to herself at Spike’s remark. She had him on her back and cautiously entered the forest with the other ponies. “So, have ANY of you been in here before?” the lavender unicorn asked.

“Absolutely not.” Rarity said, a slight shiver in her voice. “It’s dreadful. I’m not the woodsy type anyway, but, still.”

Spike looked around. “It looks like a bunch of trees to me,” he said.

“They ain’t like the trees we grow in Sweet Apple Acres, though,” Applejack said. “This forest don’t work the same as Equestria.” Unknown to the ponies and dragon, Nightmare Moon’s mist burrows into the soil of the cliff they’re on.

“What does that mean?” Spike asked with growing concern. “Are there whomping willows in this forest?”

“Whomping willows?” asked Fluttershy curiously.

“Twilight’s studied a LOT of things in Canterlot,” Spike said. “One thing she came across was a valuable, violent species of magical plants known as the whomping willows. They’ll attack anypony and anyTHING that gets within range of their branches.”

“Well,” Fluttershy said. “They certainly sound dangerous, but, I hadn’t heard of any instances of them being in the Everfree Forest.”

The group suddenly found themselves walking by a tree with fewer others around it than most.

“I have a bad feeling about this.” Twilight said. Her misgivings turned out to be true when an unsuspecting little bird flew by the tree and a branch as thick as a python smashed into the bird, slamming it against the ground.

“EEK!,” Fluttershy squeaked in a frightened way. “Now, I HAVE heard of an instance of one in the Everfree Forest!”

“I think we should keep our distance from that tree,” Spike said, trying to hide his own fears.

The others quietly confirmed and carefully made their way by the tree. Soon, they were near a cliff.

“That was close.” Twilight sighed. “Hopefully, the worst is over now.”

“Right,” said Spike. “We should keep looking for the ruins.”

Just at that moment, the ground they’re on sagged a bit.

“Be careful, y’all.” Applejack said. “If things get too loud ‘round here, it’ll trigger a collapse.”

Poor timing seemed to hit Pinkie at that moment because some pollen got up her nose and made her sneeze confetti. Suddenly, the ground crumbled beneath the group and Pinkie, Applejack, Rarity, Twilight, and Spike fell down the cliffside. Rainbow and Fluttershy, being pegasus ponies, managed to avoid falling down.

"Fluttershy, come on!" cried Rainbow Dash, zipping downwards.

"Oh my goodness, oh my goodness!" Fluttershy followed after the more athletic pegasus.

Spike dug his claws into the dirt to save himself while Rainbow grabbed Pinkie and Fluttershy grabbed Rarity.

"Where's Applejack and Twilight?" Gasped Spike.

Rainbow set Pinkie down before flying back up to check. She went to help Fluttershy with Rarity. "There!"

Applejack had grabbed Twilight, who was dangling over the cliff. “Twilight!” cried Spike as he began racing straight for the lavender unicorn.

Twilight saw Spike scurrying towards her. Oh no, she thought. Even now, his habit’s taking over at full force!

Spike made it to Twilight and tried helping Applejack lift Twilight up.

"Spike, Applejack!" cried Twilight. "What should we do?!"

"I don't know!" cried Spike as he struggled.

Applejack saw Rarity and Pinkie safely on the ground and heard the soft beat of wing flaps down below.

"Let go."

Twilight and Spike couldn’t believe what they were hearing. “Are you crazy?!” they blurted.

"No ah ain't," said Applejack calmly. “Rainbow n’ Fluttershy’ll catch ya, Twilight. Ah’ll bring Spike down safely mahself. Would ah lie in this situation?”

“I barely know you!” Twilight protested. “How should I know if I can trust you?!”

“We barely know ya n’ we trust ya on the Elements o’ Harmony," Applejack replied sharply.

“She’s got us there,” Spike admitted.

“I… guess… Okay,” Twilight conceded. “Make sure Spike at least gets down safe.”

“Ah promise he’ll be safe,” Applejack said in a soft motherly voice.

Twilight let go and screamed as she fell. Fortunately, Rainbow and Fluttershy were able to catch her before she hit the ground. Spike grew excited. “Way to go, girrrr…” he trailed off and began leaning forward over the edge.

“Whoa, nelly!” Applejack exclaimed as she quickly wrapped a hoof around Spike’s chest and pulled him close to her. “Y’all really need ta be careful, sugarcube.”

Spike didn’t respond as Applejack saw that he was sleeping. She put him on her back and made her way down.

Meanwhile, Rainbow and Fluttershy brought Twilight down safely. “Thanks for the assist, girls,” Twilight said.

Applejack made her way down with the unconscious Spike on her back. “Oh my goodness!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “Is Spike okay?”

“The little feller passed out n’ nearly fell off the cliff,” Applejack said.

“Oh, I was afraid of this,” Twilight said as she levitated Spike onto her back. “His bad habit will get him in big trouble.”

“You mentioned that habit earlier,” Rarity said. “What exactly does this habit entail?”

Twilight saw that the other mares were concerned. She decided to confess. “I’m sure by now, Spike’s told you he’s not very popular in Canterlot.”

“He has, yeah,” Rainbow Dash said.

Twilight steeled herself. “That’s a gross understatement,” she said. “He’s not even given the same rights as other ponies. At best, he’s not even addressed by name.”

“That’s downright horrible!” Applejack gasped.

“I’ve kept him in my room all day for the better part of six years to spare him from such mistreatment,” Twilight continued, tears welling up in her eyes.

“So,” Fluttershy said. “Spike doesn’t have any friends besides you, Twilight?”

“And my brother, parents, foalsitter, and four of my classmates,” Twilight admitted. “Spike softens up when he’s shown even the tiniest bit of compassion.”

“So, that’s why he was so eager to help out,” Applejack said.

“It’s also part of the problem,” Twilight continued. “He goes out of his way to help anypony who treats him with respect, often pushing himself to the point of exhaustion, endangering himself.”

“Well,” Applejack said. “Ah hope we can help him overcome this habit.”

“It’s not that simple,” Twilight said. “I should know. I’ve been raising him these past ten years.” Twilight realized what she said and covered her mouth.

“Twilight?” Fluttershy asked with concern. “Are you alright?”

Twilight sighed again. “Fluttershy, I told you that me and my whole family was tasked with raising Spike,” she said. “That wasn’t entirely true.”

“What do you mean?” asked Pinkie. “Is he a foundling found in a basket left on your doorstep?”

“No,” Twilight said. “I hatched his egg as part of an entrance exam. I alone was tasked with raising him. My parents helped, but, it was ultimately my task to perform.”

“Oh, Twilight, that is so sweet.” Fluttershy said. “I mean, it must not have been easy, but, knowing that Spike is growing up into such a healthy young dragon, it really is a wonderful thing you're doing.”

Twilight was taken aback. “You don’t think any less of me?”

“Why would we?” asked Pinkie.

“When I was a filly, strangers judged me for raising a dragon,” Twilight confessed. “That made it hard for me to make friends, so, I began getting more into my studies as a coping mechanism.”

“Why didn’t you tell us, darling?” Rarity asked.

“Because I was afraid that you’d judge me for it, too,” Twilight explained as tears welled up.

“Are you kidding?” Rainbow said. “You’re a stronger mare than any of us!”

“Yeah,” Applejack said comfortingly. “Ya remind me o’ mah Granny Smith. She’s had to look after me, mah brother, n’ mah sister. Ah think yer amazin’, Twi.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow. “What about your mom and dad?”

Applejack put her hat to her heart. “They died three years ago,” she confessed.

“Oh, I’m sorry.” Twilight said sympathetically. “I didn’t know.”

“Ya didn’t ask, neither,” Applejack said. “It ain’t somethin’ ah like ta talk about.”

“I understand.” Twilight said.

At that moment, Spike stirred. “So do I,” he said.

“Spike!” Twilight gasped.

“How much did ya hear?” Applejack asked.

“The whole thing,” Spike admitted. “I have keen hearing thanks to Twilight pulling all-nighters.”

“Still,” Rarity said. “We may have only just met today, but, hearing your story doesn’t make us think any less of you than we do, Twilight.”

“Well, uh-!” Rainbow said, wiping a tear from her eye. “We better carry on and find these Elements before things get too sappy.”

Unknown to the group, the mist of Nightmare Moon was observing the situation from afar.

"Blast that puny apple farmer!" A voice hissed to itself. "She had to go and ruin everything!"

"Please!" Another voice desperately protested. "We do not wish to bring harm to other ponies! What we want is respect."

The first voice then replied, "The only way to get respect is to be feared. And I'll teach those ponies to fear me if it's the last thing I do! This forest is filled with dangers, it's time I took advantage of them!" And then without being noticed, the mist raced ahead of the ponies, striking a creature far ahead on the path.

The ponies and Spike continued to chat amongst each other as they walked. Rainbow in particular was recounting the rescue she and Fluttershy made to Spike.

“As soon as Pinkie and Rarity were saved,” Rainbow said. “Me and Fluttershy loop de looped around and Wham! Caught Twilight in the nick of time.”

Spike nodded. “I saw part of that before I passed out.”

“Oh, right,” Rainbow said sheepishly.

“And Spike and I are both very grateful,” said Twilight. “But, we have to keep going until-”

Her speech was interrupted by a large creature making itself known. This creature looked like a lion with a scorpion tail and bat-like wings. The ponies and dragon knew at once what it was.

“A manticore!” Spike gasped. The monster roared with a voice like a trumpet.

“We have to get past him!” Twilight said. However, Fluttershy noticed something wrong when the manticore kept one paw off the ground, something Rarity either didn’t notice or simply ignored. She bucked the manticore in the face.

“Take that, you ruffian!” She said in a determined way. The monster responded by making another trumpet-like roar in her face. The force from the manticore’s breath steamed Rarity’s mane and tail into an afro-like style. “My hair!”

Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Would you rather it be your neck?”

The manticore was about to slash at Rarity, who jumped backwards to avoid getting hurt.

“Wait!” Fluttershy said softly. Unfortunately, only Spike heard her.

“Uh, gir-” he started before being cut off.

“Not now, Spike,” Rainbow interrupted.

Applejack jumped onto the manticore’s back and she started to ride it like how a rodeo star would ride on a bucking bull.

“I really think you should–” Spike tried to say.

“Get past that manticore, yes. We already figured that out, Spike!” Rainbow interrupted again.

“Yee haw!” exclaimed Applejack. “Get along, little doggy!”

“Wait!” Fluttershy said again. Just like last time, only Spike heard.

“It sounds like Fluttershy’s–” Spike once again tried to say.

“Not doing anything useful right now, we know!” Rainbow interrupted as Applejack got thrown off.

“All yours, partner,” she said as she flew past Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow smirked. “Gladly!”

Rainbow Dash charged towards the manticore.

“Wait!” Fluttershy said quietly again. Too late, Rainbow was flying circles around the manticore.

“Ya giving up?” Rainbow remarked to the beast, who replied by striking her with his tail.

“Rainbow!” Twilight shouted in concern. Rainbow got up despite a bit of pain. Five of the mares quickly gathered their composure and summed what courage they could muster on short notice. Then they all ran towards the manticore together, prepared to take it on all at once and hopefully prevail.

But, before they could attack, Spike jumped in front of them and shouted at the top of his lungs, “STOOOOOOP!!!” His shout was like a small gale that stopped the mares in their tracks. Fluttershy, seeing her chance, then calmly walked up to the manticore.

“Fluttershy, what are you–” Rainbow started before Spike cut her off.

“Fluttershy’s been trying to tell you all something!” he declared. “So, maybe instead of charging head-first at a creature that could easily kill you in seconds like a bunch of idiots with a death wish, maybe you should listen to the only one of us that’s a critter whisperer!”

“Who’s that?” Pinkie said obliviously. The others, minus Fluttershy, looked at her with a look of, “Are you kidding me?” “Oh, yeah. Fluttershy.”

“You’ve been holding back, haven’t you?” Fluttershy asked the manticore.

The manticore made low soft noises. Somehow, these noises seemed to come from a different creature: a more mildly-tempered one.

“I could tell because you were only putting one paw on the ground,” Fluttershy soothed. Spike and the other mares then noticed that the manticore had his left front paw curled up.

“Well, ah’ll be…” said Applejack.

Spike then looked to Rarity. “You have the Mystic Eyes of Detail,” he pointed out. “How did you NOT notice that?”

“I wasn’t looking at its feet,” Rarity protested. “I was a bit preoccupied with its upper body.”

The manticore glared at Rarity with a snarl. “Manny Roar doesn’t like being called ‘it,’ Rarity,” Fluttershy said.

“He has a name?” Rainbow Dash asked. “And it’s Manny Roar?”

Fluttershy nodded. “Yes. And he’s not really trying to hurt any of us.”

Manny then timidly showed Fluttershy the thorn that’s in his paw. “Whoa,” said Spike. “No wonder he was acting that way. A thorn in the foot would make ANYPONY miserable.”

“Now,” Fluttershy gently said to Manny. “This might hurt for just a second.” She yanked the thorn out with her teeth. Manny winced in pain for a second, but, after the soreness subsided, he gave Fluttershy affectionate licks on her face.

“You’re just a big baby kitty, aren’t you, Manny?” cooed Fluttershy.

“Hey, Flutters?” Rainbow Dash said sheepishly. “We’re sorry we were caught up in the fight to notice you.”

“It’s okay,” Fluttershy said. “In your defense, I was being a bit too quiet.”

“But, how did you know he wouldn’t attack you after the thorn was out?” Twilight asked. “He could’ve ripped you to pieces.”

“Easy,” Fluttershy said softly. “Sometimes we all just need to show a little kindness. And that little kindness can go a long way."

Had any of them looked back, they might have seen the thorn dematerialize and turn into dark blue mist. "Why didn't that work?!" The first voice complained.

"You underestimate these ponies," the second voice replied. "Please, let us go. Thou hast already done enough to taint our reputation!"

But, the first voice only hissed anew. "Never, it's too late for that now! I think it's time I showed these ponies why they call me Nightmare Moon!"

Deeper and deeper into the Everfree Forest, the ponies and Spike walked. Rarity was soon starting to feel uneasy. “My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck,” she complained. The foliage on top of the trees covered the sky, darkening the path the ponies and Spike were walking on. “I didn’t mean that literally.”

“Why don’t you two cast illumination spells?” Spike asked Twilight and Rarity. “You ARE unicorns after all.”

The two unicorns did so, only for a mysterious force to short out their magic. “It doesn’t look like that’ll work, Spike,” Twilight said. “Something’s jamming our magic.”

“Well, looks like I’ll have to help out,” Spike said. He took a deep breath before gently breathing a tiny green flame like a torch.

“Thank you, Spike.” Said Fluttershy. Spike gave the okay sign.

“What’s that mean?” Rainbow asked.

“Spike can’t talk and use his fire breath at the same time,” Twilight explained. “That sign means, ‘okay.’”

As they continued on, the purple-blue wisp of magic seeped into the roots of the trees in the forest. One tree poured some collected dew over Spike, extinguishing his flame.

“Oh, no!” sputtered Spike. “My fire went out! It’ll take hours before my dragon flame is reignited.”

“Can’t you just relight it now?” Rainbow asked.

“No, I can’t,” said Spike. “Don’t you know anything about dragon fire?”

“I never met one until yesterday,” Rainbow said. “So, no.”

“Oh, right,” Spike said in an embarrassed tone. “Well, you see, my stomach works kind of like a furnace. When I use my fire breath, I’m expelling extra fire from my body so I don’t get too hot. If water gets in my stomach, it gets cooled down and it takes a while to heat back up again.”

“As fascinating as this lecture on dragon biology is,” Twilight interjected. “We still have a 1000+ year old alicorn causing eternal night to deal with here!”

“Oh, shoot!” exclaimed Applejack. “Ah think ah stepped in somethin’.” Fluttershy screamed. “It’s just mud.”

Applejack went to wipe her muddied hoof on a nearby tree trunk, when she was caught off-guard by a rather scary face on the tree. Five of the mares backed up in fear as they saw the faces. “Really?” questioned Spike. “They’re just trees. None of them look like Whomping Willows.” Unfortunately, the mares were too frightened to listen. That is, except Pinkie Pie, who could be heard… laughing?

The other mares looked to see Pinkie was indeed laughing at a tree. She was even making silly noises and funny faces at the trees. “Pinkie, what are you doing?” Twilight cried. “Run!”

“From some clearly NON-Whomping Willow trees?” Spike pointed out.

“Well,” Fluttershy said. “These trees could have also been dangerous.”

“Oh, girls, don’t you see?” Pinkie said cheerily. It was at that moment, she began to sing. “When I was a little filly and the sun was going down~”

“Tell me she’s not…” Twilight said in disbelief.

“The darkness and the shadows,” Pinkie continued, somehow defying gravity. “They would always make me frown~”

“She is,” confirmed Rarity.

“I’d hide under my pillow from what I thought I saw~” Pinkie sang, bouncing around the group. “But, Granny Pie said that wasn’t the way to deal with fears at all~”

"Then what is?" Rainbow Dash asked. With the way she spoke, it was hard to tell if she sincerely wanted to know or just wanted the singing to stop.

“She said, ‘Pinkie, you gotta stand up tall, learn to face your fears~’” Continued Pinkie, getting ridiculously close to Rainbow Dash’s face. “‘You’ll see that they can’t hurt you, just laugh to make them disappear~!’”

She bounced up to one particular tree and she throatily laughed.

“Ha! Ha! Ha!” She laughed. As if by magic, the scary face on the tree disappeared. The others gasped in surprise. “So~ Giggle at the ghostly, guffaw at the grossly~ crack up at the creepy, whoop it up with the weepy, chortle at the kooky, snortle at the spooky~” She then picked up speed. “And tell that big dumb scary face to take a hike and leave you alone and if he thinks he can scare you, he’s got another thing coming, and the very idea of such a thing just makes you wanna-” She’s interrupted by a sudden burst of laughter. “LAU~UGH~!”

Soon, all the mares and Spike find themselves in a state of laughter. The foliage even parted, making the forest easy to see through again. “See,” said Spike. “They were just trees. Nothing dangerous about them.”

“Yes, Spike,” said Twilight. “You were right.”

“A little laughter can go a long way,” Pinkie said.

“It did help to make everything less scary,” Fluttershy said, a giggle still present in her voice.

Then, Pinkie stood up. "Come on, girls! We're not going to let this spooky forest get the best of us, now are we?!" And without waiting for a reply she bounced away, prompting Spike and the other ponies to follow her until slowly but surely, more natural light began to illuminate the forest again.

Meanwhile, back in the darkened part of the forest, the dark blue mist was appearing once again. The scary faces had failed to phase the ponies like one of the voices had hoped.

The voice of Nightmare Moon again complained to herself. "Curses! Why is nothing working?! Everything I throw at these ponies, they just throw it right back at me like it's nothing!"

The other voice once again pleaded. "Stop this, now! We shalt never regain the trust of our subjects like this. We art to protect them from what frightens them, not make them fear us even more!"

But, the voice of Nightmare Moon only growled. "This is why I'm in charge and you are not. You're too weak to do what needs to be done!" And she then vowed. "One way or another, I will stop them from reaching the castle! All will bow to us eventually, or would you rather I cast you off and find a more worthy host?"

"No!" The other voice whined! "Please, do not abandon us! We will have no one left to protect us!"

"Excellent," Nightmare Moon smiled. "So leave everything to me from now on. Those ponies may be tough, but, they're not invincible!" And then the dark blue mist took off once more. The mist then approached a large purple serpent with an orange coiffed mane and mustache filing his nails nonchalantly in his stream and smirking to himself.

“Ah, Stephen Magnet,” said the creature. “You are simply fabulous.”

He blew the excess keratin off of his filed nails. Suddenly, the mist flew past him and ripped half his mustache off.

“Ah!” Stephen yelped in surprise. He caught sight of his reflection in the stream and saw the aftermath. This caused him to be overwhelmed with sorrow and he began to cry. As he cried, his serpentine body began to churn the waters of the stream.

Spike and the ponies arrived and saw the churning river.

“How are we going to cross this?” asked Twilight.

“Fluttershy and I could fly over,” Rainbow suggested.

“N’ what about us?” Applejack questioned.

“We could carry you,” Rainbow smiled. “I mean, it would take a few turns to get everyone across, but-”

Rainbow Dash’s train of thought was suddenly interrupted by the sound of Stephen Magnet’s nearby sobbing. They followed the noise and saw the serpent flailing about.

“Oh, what a world~!” Stephen sobbed. “What a world!”

“A serpent’s causing this?” Fluttershy observed.

“Excuse me, sir?” Twilight asked. “But, what’s the matter? Why are you crying?”

“And what’s a sea serpent doing so far from the ocean?” Spike asked innocently.

Stephen stopped his sobbing at once and looked indignant. “I’ll not be called a boorish sea serpent, thank you kindly,” he huffed. “I, Stephen Magnet, am a dignified RIVER serpent. Sea serpents are much larger than I am and live in saltwater.”

“I’m sorry,” Spike said apologetically. “I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.”

“That still doesn’t really answer my questions, uh… Stephen, was it?” Twilight said.

“As for why I was crying,” Stephen said with a sniffle. “I was sitting here, minding my own business, when, WHOOSH! This tacky cloud of purple smoke just whisked by and cut half of my beloved mustache clean off… and now, I look simply HORRID!” Resuming his sobbing, Stephen flailed around again, splashing Spike and the ponies.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Rainbow Dash said, clearly annoyed. “It’ll grow back!”

“Do you even realize how long it takes to grow a mustache?” Stephen retorted.

“We don’t actually.” Pinkie said honestly. “We’re six mares and a dragon that hasn’t entered puberty yet.”

“And who knows when THAT’LL happen,” Spike said. “I’m ten pony years old and I’m still considered a baby dragon.”

“But, seriously?” Applejack said. “That’s what all the fuss is about?”

Rarity stepped up in a huff.

“Well, of course it is,” she said indignantly. “How can you be so insensitive? Why, just look at Stephen. Such lovely luminescent scales.”

Stephen seemed to perk up a bit.

“Oh, thank you,” Stephen said. “I know~”

Rarity continued her barrage of compliments.

“And such an expertly coiffed mane.” Rarity said with a flattering smile. Stephen stroked the mane in question.

“Oh, I know~” Stephen said. “I have my own formula for hair mousse.”

Rarity continued.

“And such expertly manicured claws.” Rarity said sweetly. Stephen brightened up further.

“Oh, so true~” Stephen said happily.

“All ruined with only half of your mustache,” Rarity said solemnly.

“It’s true~!” Stephen wailed. “I’m hideous!”

Rarity turned to Spike. “Spike, come over here.”

Spike came to Rarity’s beck and call and stood next to her.

“Yes, Rarity?” Spike asked with a small, eager to please smile. Suddenly, Rarity’s horn lit up and Spike’s right claw was engulfed in the same aura.

“I cannot allow such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected!” Rarity declared.

“Uh, Rarity?” Spike asked. “I don’t mind helping, but, what exactly are we doing?”

“Yeah, what are you—“ Twilight started before being cut off by a slashing noise.

Stephen gasped in surprise and fainted from the shock. Spike was equally surprised that Rarity had used his claw to cut her tail off. Rarity then used her magic to weave her severed tail onto the end of Stephen’s cleaved mustache. Stephen observed the replacement. Seeing as it compliments his complexion, he feels happy again.

“Oh!” Stephen said, rejoicing. “My mustache!” The river calmed just as he did.

“You look smashing,” said Rarity with a smile.

“Rarity,” said Spike. “Your tail!”

“Oh, it’s quite alright,” Rarity said reassuringly. “Short tails are in for the summer season. I wouldn’t be able to run a boutique if I didn’t keep ahead of the trends.”

“That’s a fair point,” Twilight said. She then looked to see the waters of the stream had calmed. “Look! We can cross now. Let’s go!”

“Allow me, little ones,” Stephen said, making himself into a walk bridge. “This river is deceptively deep.”

“Oh!” Twilight said with surprise. “Thank you, Stephen!”

Stephen then plucked one of his scales off. “Take one of my scales, too,” he offered. “They not only glow in the dark, but, they’re sharp enough to cut through stone.”

“That is helpful,” Twilight said. “Thank you very much.” Spike held the scale as the mares hopped across the serpent.

But, as the ponies and dragon were reaching the other side and heading deeper into the forest, they were still unaware of the dark blue smoke that was watching them.

Nightmare Moon was fast losing all patience. "They're still going! Nothing's working!" She complained. "Do they really think they stand a chance against me?! Me?!"

The other voice responded. "Perhaps they do. Soon, we shalt be free and in control once again!"

Nightmare Moon thought otherwise as she growled. "No! I won't allow that to happen! This has gone far enough! I know how to split them up." And her mind began to scheme.

Soon, Spike and the ponies soon reached the outskirts of the Ancient Ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters. The area surrounding them was noticeably cloaked in fog.

“There it is,” Twilight said. “The ruins that hold the Elements of Harmony! We made it!”

Twilight was about to run to the castle, but, because of the fog, she was unaware that there was a rope bridge that had broken off at one end. Spike saw it as she approached. “Wait, Twilight!”

Twilight, having learned by that point to listen to Spike’s warnings, stopped running. And just in time as she saw that the bridge was out.

“You seem to have a thing for falling off cliffs today,” Rainbow joked. “Rushing into stuff is supposed to be my thing.”

“Now what?” asked Pinkie.

“Duh,” Rainbow commented, flapping her wings.

“Oh, yeah!” Pinkie piped in with silly realization.

Rainbow flew into the gap to get part of the bridge. Once she grabbed the still stable ropes, she flew up to the side where the ancient ruins are and was about to tether the ropes back into place. Suddenly, she thought she heard a voice calling out to her.

"Rainbow Dash..." The voice spoke.

“Huh?” Rainbow asked in confusion, looking around. “Who said that?”

Again, the voice called out. "Rainbow Dash!"

“I know you’re out there!” shouted Rainbow, sounding tough. “Show yourself!”

Suddenly, from the darkness emerged a trio of pegasi clad in navy blue flight suits. Their eyes were obscured by flight goggles, but, the one in the middle had a vivid orange mane and tail with amber stripes. Another had a dark grayish-blue mane and tail and appeared to be a stallion. And a third had a light brilliant and very pale arctic blue mane and tail. The mare with the vivid orange colored mane and tail spoke up, using the same voice that had been calling out from the darkness earlier. "We've been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flyer in Equestria."

“Who’s that?” asked Rainbow, suspecting nothing.

The mare in the middle gave an ominous smile as she declared. "Why, you, of course. We've been expecting you."

“Me?” said Rainbow, caught off-guard. She suddenly regained her composure. “I mean, of course, me. Hey, you wouldn't mind telling the Wonderbolts you said that, would you? I’ve been wanting to join them for, like, ever!”

“Oh, but, we ARE the Wonderbolts,” the mare with a vivid orange mane and tail responded. “Your skills have impressed us. We want you to join us and be our new captain. Together, we'll be the greatest flying military team in all of Equestria! Maybe even beyond!"

“Wow~” gasped Rainbow Dash, stars seemed to form in her eyes.

The mare in the middle nodded. "Yes indeed. Are you interested?"

Rainbow was all too eager to accept. "You bet I am!" But, then she remembered why she'd flown across the gap and had come into the Everfree Forest to begin with. "Just let me tie this bridge real quick and then we have a deal."

“No!” snapped the mare in the middle. “It’s them or us.”

Meanwhile, Twilight (along with Spike and the other four mares left on the other side of the bridge) had begun to grow impatient. And so, she chose that very moment to call out. "Hey, Rainbow! What's the hold-up?! What's taking so long?!" By chance, she happened to glance across the bridge. And when she did so her eyes fell upon the Wonderbolts, but, something about them didn't seem right. "Oh no!" she gasped, a little louder than she had intended to.

The mare in the middle gazed at Twilight’s group and she had a fiercely determined look. Her angry goggled eyes glowed and more fog surrounded the trench.

“Don’t listen to them,” Twilight cried as the fog muffled her.

“Well?” asked the mare in the middle with a cold smirk.

Rainbow, having witnessed the flashing eyes, knew immediately that something was up. "I don't know who you are, but, you're not the Wonderbolts! The Wonderbolts would never turn their back on ponies in need! Plus, they can’t make their eyes flash to move clouds. So, thanks, but, no thanks! I'm not going to betray my friends just because you want me to!" She proceeded to tie the bridge and motioned for Spike and the five other mares to hurry across. As she did so, the clouds and fog slowly lifted and the Wonderbolts disappeared in a cloud of dark blue smoke.

“That was awesome, Rainbow Dash!” Spike said. “Thanks for the assist. Are you okay?”

“Why wouldn’t I be?” Rainbow honestly asked.

“You just turned down the Wonderbolts,” Twilight said.

“Those were fakes,” Rainbow said. “I saw Spitfire’s eyes flash and the fog moved. Fog, dust, steam, smoke, and mist are the only types of clouds pegasi CAN’T touch. Even if we COULD, we can’t move them by making our eyes flash.”

“Ah,” Spike said. “That makes sense.”

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t tempted at first,” Rainbow admitted. “But, even if those fakes DIDN’T use that freaky trick, I wouldn’t leave you all hanging. You’re stuck with me.”

Twilight couldn’t help but smile at Rainbow’s remark. Soon, they walked inside the castle’s ancient ruins. They look to see a stone fountain-like structure with five stone orbs on each end.

“Think those are what we’re looking for?” asked Spike, somewhat disappointed. “I was kind of expecting something more impressive than some round rocks.”

“After they were used on Nightmare Moon,” Twilight explained. “They were encased in these stone orbs to preserve their magic. They’re clearly in a dormant state.”

“One, two, three, four…” Pinkie counted the elements. “There’s only five.”

“What about that one in the middle?” Spike pointed out. Rainbow tried moving it, but, it wouldn’t budge.

“I think this one’s part of the structure,” she said. “It won’t budge.”

“The reference guide says that when the five elements are present, a spark will reveal the location of the sixth.” Twilight explained.

“What in the hay does that mean?” Applejack asked.

“I’m not sure,” Twilight said. “But, I have an idea. Stand back, please. I don’t know what this will do and I don’t want to accidentally hurt you guys.”

Twilight began concentrating while lighting up her horn.

“Come on, y’all.” Applejack said. “She needs ta concentrate.” The other mares followed Applejack, but, Spike lagged behind.

It was fortunate that he did, though, because he noticed the mist that had been following him and his friends throughout the forest headed for Twilight.

“Twilight, look out!” Spike shouted in alarm. Before Twilight had a chance to turn her attention to Spike, the mist grabbed him and began swirling around the element stones.

“Spike!” Twilight shouted. “Let him go!”

The other five mares heard this.

“Twilight! Spike!” The mares shouted in alarm. They rushed in just in time to see Twilight disappear in a flash.

“Twilight?! Spike?!” Applejack called. “Where are ya two?”

“Look!” Rarity alerted. In a distant part of the castle, lights could be seen flashing on and off. That couldn't be a coincidence.

“Come on, y’all!” Applejack rallied. “We’re goin’ after ‘em! Twilight n’ Spike’ll need our help!”

The five ponies charged towards the distant part of the castle. Meanwhile, at said location, Twilight seemed to materialize in the purplish-blue smoke, coughing up excess that was in her throat. She looked ahead and gasped at the intimidating sight of Nightmare Moon, who was not only levitating the element stones, but, holding Spike with her mane. Twilight knew she had to do something to keep the Elements of Harmony away from Nightmare Moon, but, she also didn’t want to risk Spike potentially getting hurt. “This dragon has been most irksome to me throughout the journey here,” taunted the alicorn. “He and that party pony were the only ones to see through the tree illusions.”

Twilight gasped. She then growled and she readied her hooves to charge. Nightmare Moon was surprised by the defiance shown in the unicorn and she was anything but amused. "You're kidding. You're kidding, right?" She rolled her eyes.

Twilight then began to charge at Nightmare Moon, who charged at Twilight before throwing Spike to the ground. Twilight charged her horn. Once it was charged, she teleported behind Nightmare Moon and held Spike in a tender embrace amidst the Elements of Harmony.

“Oh, Spike.” Twilight said tenderly. “I’m so sorry.”

“Don’t be, Twilight,” Spike said. “Just worry about the elements. I’ll keep Nightmare busy.”

“Right,” Twilight said. “But, please be careful.” She let go of Spike, who pulled out the scale Stephen gave them like a sword before charging at the alicorn.

“Charge!” Spike shouted.

“Just one spark,” Twilight said softly to herself, illuminating her horn. “Come on… come on…” She surrounded the orbs with her magic, hoping to produce the sixth element and activate The Elements of Harmony.

Nightmare Moon wasn't about to let that happen. Despite Spike managing to get a cut on the alicorn’s leg, drawing some blood, she teleported over to Twilight's location and knocked the unicorn back with ease. She soon realized the folly of her rash decision, though. The five orbs beneath her hooves began to glow and crackle with energy. "No! No!" She cried, fearing that they were about to activate.

Twilight and Spike smirked at Nightmare Moon. The glowing and crackling continued for about three seconds, but, suddenly, the glowing stopped. "What?! But... where's the sixth element?! Why didn't the spark work?!"

The evil alicorn just cackled with fiendish glee as she brought her hooves down, shattering the orbs into tiny pieces right in front of Twilight and Spike. "You pathetic little fool!" She taunted afterwards. "Thinking that you could actually defeat me? I should be impressed that somepony other than Princess Celestia could stand up to me, but, right now I only feel annoyed! You're a bothersome little pest! It's high time I made an example out of you!" She made her horn crackle as she magically grabbed Spike.

“Hey!” Spike shouted. “Let me go!”

“Now, you’ll never see your princess or your sun again!” the alicorn declared.

Spike heard the voices of the other five mares approaching and got an idea. “I’m… not… her son…” he said while struggling, catching the alicorn off-guard.

“What?” Nightmare Moon said in confusion. “No, no, no. I said ‘sun’ as in the one in the sky, not ‘son’ as in offspring!”

This distraction was enough for Twilight to hear the other voices, too.

“Don’t worry, Twilight!” said Pinkie’s voice in the distance.

“We'll be there!” said Applejack’s voice in the distance.

Twilight gasped and her eyes widened. Within her enlarged pupils, a small spark flickered in each one. At last, Twilight understood the message in the book.

“You think you can destroy the Elements of Harmony just like that?” Twilight said smirking at Nightmare Moon. “Well, you’re wrong, because the spirits of the Elements of Harmony are right here!”

Surrounding Twilight were Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. They all smirked at Nightmare Moon as well. Spike swiped his claws at the mist-like mane, freeing himself. When the mares all stood together, the stone fragments of The Elements of Harmony began to reassemble themselves.

Nightmare Moon was shocked to see such a thing. "What?! What's going on?!" She stumbled back in disbelief. "This... this isn't happening!"

“Applejack,” Twilight said. “Who reassured me when I was in doubt and believed in me when nopony else would, represents the spirit of… Honesty!” Some fragments orbited Applejack.

Nightmare Moon proceeded to fire off a powerful blast of magic from her horn. But, it just bounced off a forcefield that surrounded Twilight and the other ponies. It seemed The Elements of Harmony were protecting these ponies.

Feeling a bit more confident, Spike jumped onto Nightmare’s back and began pulling on her horn. “You know, it’s rude to interrupt when somepony’s talking.”

“Fluttershy,” Twilight continued. “Who tamed the manticore with her compassion by seeing what nopony else could see, represents the spirit of… Kindness!” More fragments orbited Fluttershy. “Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by literally giggling in the face of danger, keeping our spirits up the whole time, represents the spirit of… Laughter!” More fragments orbited Pinkie. “Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift, tarnishing her own beauty to do so, represents the spirit of… Generosity!” More fragments orbited Rarity. “And Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends even for her own heart’s desires, represents the spirit of… Loyalty!”

"So what?" Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes. "You think your speech frightens me?"

The studious unicorn nodded in reply. "It should, because it was the spirit of these five ponies that allowed us to get past every challenge and every obstacle you threw at us! Without them, I wouldn't be standing here now to oppose you!"

“But, you still don’t have the sixth element!” Nightmare Moon acknowledged. “The spark didn’t work! Without it, none of you are a match for me! I'll crush you all!"

"Wrong again, Nightmare Moon!" Twilight retorted. "The spark did work, but, it was a different kind of spark," She then turned to the five mares who were surrounded by circling stone shards. "It was a spark that ignited inside of me. I felt it the moment I realized something: How happy I was to see you all, to hear your voices, to have you with me and how much I cared about you. When I realized that you all," She paused for a moment to boldly declare, "ARE MY FRIENDS!"

At that moment, a stone orb similar to the ones that the Elements of Harmony were encased in appeared. This one, however, had a carving of a six-pointed star, the same one Twilight had as a cutie mark. Nightmare Moon used one of her wings to shield her eyes from the light emanating from the stone orb. "You see, Nightmare Moon, when those five elements are ignited by the... the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth and final element: the element of... Magic!" Then she felt herself and her new friends be lifted into the air as five necklaces and a tiara appeared around them.

As Spike saw a beam of rainbow energy fly towards Nightmare, he quickly jumped out of the way.

“Whoa!” Spike exclaimed.

The beam surrounded Nightmare Moon before she could escape. "NOOOOOOO!" She cried in vain. "I... WE..." And it was the last thing she said before she was completely encircled by the rainbow beam. And soon, another blinding flash filled the entire castle.

After a few moments, the light died down and the ponies were safely on the ground. The ponies then began to stir. “Are you girls okay?” asked a concerned Spike.

“I’m okay, considering,” Rainbow Dash said, rubbing the side of her head. “My head’s killing me, though.”

“Are y’all okay, Spike?” asked Applejack.

“Yeah, I’m okay.” Spike said. “Thanks for checking.”

“Oh, thank goodness,” chimed Rarity.

The magic from the Elements of Harmony helped to restore Rarity’s tail to its original length.

“Oh, Rarity,” Fluttershy said with admiration. “It’s so lovely.”

“I know,” Rarity smiled. “I’ll never part with it again!”

“I don’t think she meant your tail,” Spike said. “I think she meant your necklace, which matches your cutie mark.”

Fluttershy nods at this as Rarity looks at the intricate necklace on her own neck.

“And so does yours!” Rarity says, looking at the necklace on Fluttershy’s neck.

“Look at mine! Look at mine!” cried an excited Pinkie.

“Aww, yeah!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“All of you have necklaces with gems matching your cutie marks,” Spike said before turning to Twilight. “Wait a minute. Twilight’s is a crown!”

“Hmm,” Twilight pondered curiously. “I wonder why that is?”

“Does anypony else think this is a sign of something important?” Pinkie asked.

“Maybe,” Fluttershy said.

“Gee, Twilight.” Applejack said. “Ah thought ya were spoutin’ a lot o’ hooey. But, ah reckon we really do embody the Elements o’ Friendship.”

“Harmony,” Spike corrected. “Elements of Harmony.”

“Right,” Applejack said. “Though, the sixth one came when Twilight said that we were friends.”

"Indeed so, my little ponies." A gentle and warm voice called from the distance. Then, suddenly, in a brilliant display of white light, the ponies were greeted by the presence of an alicorn. This alicorn had a coat of majestic white, a long, flowing mane and tail that had shades of light blue, light green and light pink, eyes a pale, light grayish pink in color, and a cutie mark depicting the sun. Five of the ponies and Spike bowed before her. Twilight, however, gasped happily and walked up to the figure.

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight gasped. “I’m so glad you’re okay!”

Princess Celestia smiled. "I was never in any real danger. Nightmare Moon knew she couldn't best me in a magical showdown, so, she simply used her magic to confine me to the royal palace in Canterlot. I couldn't leave or get in touch with you at all. But I knew you would prevail in the end. This is something I'd been preparing for from the moment I took you on as my student."

“But, what about the legend?” Twilight asked curiously. “Spike and I thought it was an old breezie’s tale.”

“That’s the thing about stories, my faithful student,” the princess responded. “Whether fact or fiction, they generally have to come from SOMEWHERE.”

“That’s a good point,” Twilight said. “And you knew I could do this?”

“Only if you allowed friendship into your heart,” Celestia nodded. “I must say, you succeeded where your immediate predecessor failed.”

“Thank you,” Twilight said. But, then she realized. “Wait, my predecessor?”

“You’re not the only protege I’ve had over the years, Twilight,” Celestia explained. “The one directly before you was a similarly talented unicorn named Sunset Shimmer. Just yesterday, she fled without telling anypony.”

“Oh, I see,” Twilight said grimly. “That and the fact that she was in different age group classes would explain why I hadn’t heard of her.”

Celestia sighed. “It really is quite a shame,” she lamented. “Her skills with alchemy were a thing to behold.”

“Whoa~” Twilight said, surprised.

“But, you’ve opened your heart to friendship, Twilight,” Celestia said. “Just as I hope another pony will.”

The ponies and Spike looked to where Nightmare Moon was. In her place is a slightly smaller alicorn. She had a grayish blue coat and a very light blue mane and tail that did not flow. She had black jewelry on with a white crescent moon charm.

"Princess Luna," Princess Celestia spoke, revealing the other alicorn's true identity to all. "It has been over a thousand years since I have seen you in such a weakened state. I can only hope you can one day forgive me for failing to notice the dark path you were heading down. But, all of that is in the past," She bent down and shed a single tear before declaring. "It's time we put our differences aside and rule Equestria together as we were always meant to do. Will you accept my friendship again? Will you give me another chance?"

Tears welled in the younger alicorn’s eyes. She then leapt up to Celestia and embraced her. "We art so sorry! Of course we forgive thou, big sister! We hast missed thou so much while we were on the moon. We did not mean for things to get this out of control," Then, she blushed. "Will we... remain like this forever, dear sister?"

Princess Celestia smiled, shedding tears of her own before replying. "I don't think so. With time, you will regain all the power you lost to Nightmare Moon and The Elements of Harmony."

Princess Luna happily nuzzled Celestia more.

“Wait, you DO have a sister?” Spike asked. “How come you never told us?”

“I haven’t mentioned that?” asked Celestia. “Hmm. Must have slipped my mind. Living as long as I have can make one forgetful as well as wise.”

“Well,” Pinkie said, remembering what she said to Nightmare Moon. “I owe you an apology, Princess Luna.”

“Thou art not at fault, young pony,” Luna said. “We understood where thou was coming from addressing Nightmare Moon as a demon.”

“You knew about that?” Twilight asked.

“Nightmare Moon was a manifestation of the bitterness in our hearts with a will of her own,” Luna explained. “We knew what she did, but, we were powerless to do anything about it.”

“Now that you’re okay,” Pinkie smiled. “Do you know what this calls for?”

Later in Ponyville…

“A party!” Pinkie said happily. As the ponies celebrated, Celestia and Luna approached Spike.

“You were most brave, little Spike,” Celestia commended.

Spike blushed modestly. “Thank you, but, I really didn’t do all that much.”

“Oh, but, thou hast,” said Luna. “We saw in the shadows what thou were capable of. The skills thou learned, thine fire-breathing, and thine need to show tough love.”

Twilight and her six new friends gathered around Spike. “Your distraction helped us more than you realize,” Twilight said.

Spike couldn’t help but blush modestly. However, after he had been up for a long time, he collapsed towards the ground, completely exhausted. Twilight managed to catch him with her forehooves before he fell to the ground. Twilight then sadly sighed to herself.

Princess Celestia was quick to take note of the pronounced frown and sorrowful expression on the studious unicorn's face. "Why so glum, my faithful student?" She questioned, her tone of voice making it sound as if she already knew what the problem was. "Are you not happy that your quest is complete and you can now return to your studies in Canterlot? Get back to your life as it was?"

Twilight shook her head with tears in her eyes. "That's just it, princess," she confessed. "Just as I've finally realized how great it is to have friends, I must leave them all behind. This was another part of the reason why I didn't want to make friends here yesterday. But," her lips quivered as she looked across to the five mares she had come to get to know over the course of her journey through the Everfree Forest. "Despite my best efforts, these five worked their way into my heart. Now, I can't imagine my life without them. It isn't fair that I have to say goodbye to them when we were just getting to know each other." She then looked sadly to Spike. “And it’s not fair to Spike, either. I’ve had to keep him confined for these past six years to spare him from being judged and it’s only given him more heartache. I just can’t put him through that anymore.”

Princess Celestia didn’t say anything until Twilight finished her speech. She considered and then knowingly smiled. “Can someone take a letter for me please?”

“Seeing as Spike is in no condition to do it himself, I suppose I’ll do it,” Rarity offered.

“Thank you, young miss.” Princess Celestia said kindly. When she saw that Rarity had a quill and a piece of paper ready, she began to make her decree. “I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn, Twilight Sparkle, and her dragon, Spike, will take on a new assignment. They both must continue to study the magic of friendship. They must both report to me their findings from their new home in Ponyville.”

Twilight smiled at this, as did the five mares she let into her heart.

“Thank you so much, Princess Celestia,” Twilight smiled. “Spike and I will study harder than ever before.”

Princess Celestia smiled. "I know you will, Twilight Sparkle. You've never disappointed me before, and I look forward to hearing about your studies."

And thus began a new chapter in the lives of Twilight Sparkle and Spike. They were to go on many adventures with their friends over the years and all of them would learn valuable life lessons as they grew closer to each other, a prospect that Spike was only too eager to enjoy upon being told once he woke up.

Chapter 3: The Ticket Masters (S1:E3)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 3: The Ticket Masters

It had been one week since Twilight Sparkle and Spike had moved to Ponyville. They bid farewell to Twilight’s big brother and her parents, Twilight Velvet and Night Light. On this particular day, Twilight and Spike were invited to have lunch at Sweet Apple Acres. They arrived just as Applejack finished bringing a barrel to the main barn.

“Ah’m mighty glad ya both could join me.” Applejack smiled. “Ah just finished mah mornin’ work. A li’l lunch break n’ it’s back ta work.”

Spike looked at the number of trees. “You sure have a lot of trees, Applejack.”

“We have ta.” Applejack said. “We’re responsible for makin’ sure everypony has tasty apples.”

“Fluttershy said that your family founded Ponyville,” Twilight said. “Is that true?”

“Eeyup,” said Big McIntosh as he walked by. He was carrying three barrels of apples on his back.

“He’s not one of many words, is he?” asked Twilight curiously.

Applejack chuckled. “Not no more,” she said. “He used ta be a real chatterbox. Though, he weren’t much o’ a listener back then.”

“I see,” said Twilight. “What made him act so quiet?”

“Well, now, THERE’S a story,” said Applejack. “It has ta do with the hospital, apple blight, n’ a tall tale.”

“Huh?!” Twilight and Spike asked in surprise.

“How’s about ah tell y’all over lunch?” Applejack offered.

Twilight’s stomach couldn’t help but growl in response.

“I guess that’s a yes,” Twilight said with a sheepish giggle.

Spike suddenly felt his own stomach gurgle a bit.

“Sounds like Spike’s hungry, too,” commented the farm mare.

“That wasn’t a hungry–” Spike began, but, didn’t get the chance to finish as he belched smoke that turned into six scrolls. Applejack was surprised.

“What in the name o’ rhubarb pie just happened?”

“Sorry, Applejack,” Spike said. “That happens whenever Princess Celestia has a message for Twilight.”

“Ah thought dragon fire just burned stuff,” Applejack said.

“Apparently, it does more than we thought,” said Twilight. “Wait, why are there six scrolls?”

Spike picked one up. There was a scribbled emblem with Twilight’s cutie mark on the paper. He picked up another and this one had Applejack’s cutie mark drawn on it.

“It looks like they’re for you and your friends,” answered Spike. “You want me to read yours first, Twilight?”

“Sure, Spike,” answered the unicorn. “You can do it over lunch.”

Soon, lunch was served. Spike started reading Twilight’s scroll first.

“Princess Celestia cordially invites you and a plus one to the Grand Galloping Gala as a heartfelt thanks for assisting in the defeat of Nightmare Moon one week ago today.”

The two mares were surprised by this and nearly coughed their apple turnovers.

“The Grand Galloping Gala?!” Twilight and Applejack gasped. They then cheered excitedly. Spike checked Applejack’s scroll.

“Yours says the same thing, Applejack,” said Spike when he noticed something else. “And both messages have two tickets each.”

“This is incredible!” Twilight said. “Spike, you can be my plus 1.”

At this, Spike suddenly looked from side to side. “Uh, I appreciate the gesture, Twilight, but, maybe somepony will want it more,” he said with an uncharacteristically nervous smile.

Twilight noticed this. “Are you hiding–?”

Spike quickly changed the subject. “Hey, Applejack, what would you go to the Gala for?”

“Well,” Applejack said. “Ya may find this hard ta believe, but, even if we have a successful apple farm, we don’t really make a whole lot o’ money. So, what ah’m plannin’ on doing is settin’ up a stand where ponyfolk’ll line up ta sample the Apple Family viddles.”

“I’ve actually been meaning to ask you about that first point, Applejack,” said Spike. “If your family’s such a big deal here, founding the town and all, why does this farm look so run down?”

“Well, before mah parents were born,” Applejack admitted. “The Apple family feuded with the Pear family. Both families wasted their money tryin’ ta one-up each other. Sweet Apple Acres has been scrapin’ the bottom o’ the barrel ever since.”

“I see.” Spike said. “Though I do like the idea you came up with for the Gala, I don’t think it’ll really work. Parties like the gala will likely prepare a buffet for the party attendees and the food would be free. Nopony pays for food when it’s being given out for free.”

Applejack realized what Spike was saying. “Ah, ponyapples!” she exclaimed. “Well, ah can at least show Caramel a good time.”

“A good choice,” Twilight smiled. “We’ll have to deliver the tickets to our other friends after lunch.”

“Ah can help y’all out fer a spell,” Applejack offered. “Yer both still new ‘round these here parts. Ah can show y’all where the rest o’ the gals live.”

“Thank you, Applejack.” Twilight said gratefully. “Who lives closest?”

“Pinkie’s a tenant at Sugarcube Corner,” said Applejack.

“Alright.” Twilight said.

So, they finished up lunch and Applejack led them to Sugarcube Corner.

“Thanks again, Applejack,” Twilight smiled. At that moment, the pink party pony came out of the cake-shaped building.

“Whoa!” Twilight and Spike gasped in surprise.

“Hey, girls. Hey, Spike,” Pinkie greeted. “What’s up?”

“Princess Celestia delivered these to us in the friend group,” Spike said, showing her the invitation. “Here’s yours.”

Pinkie somehow managed to open her scroll with her mane. “How did–” Twilight started.

“It’s Pinkie,” Applejack interrupted. “Don’t question it. It’ll be better fer yer sanity.”

Pinkie read through the invitation and saw the two tickets. She gasped excitedly.

“Tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala?!” Pinkie gasped with stars in her eyes.

“Eeyup,” said Applejack, doing her best impression of her brother. “Ya can bring anypony ya choose.”

“Ooh~” Pinkie said happily. “That’s going to be a challenge because I like everypony in Ponyville.”

At that moment, Rainbow Dash flew down from a cloud.

“Did you say the Grand Galloping Gala?!” Rainbow Dash said enthusiastically.

“Uh-huh,” confessed Pinkie. “Would you be my plus one?”

“I don’t think that’ll be necessary, Pinkie,” said Spike. “I’m sensing a pattern that all these invites are the same. Here’s your’s, Rainbow.”

“Yes!” Rainbow said excitedly. “Do you know what this means?!”

“You’re being invited to a party?” Spike quipped before muttering under his breath. “Where you have a chance of experiencing a good time among other ponies.”

“What was that, Spike?” Twilight asked.

Realizing he was heard, Spike quickly came up with a cover story. “Oh, look, Rarity and Fluttershy haven’t gotten theirs yet,” he nervously laughed. “Let’s fix that.” He then ran off quickly, leaving some concerned mares behind.

“Somethin’s up with that boy,” Applejack commented.

“No doubt,” Rainbow said. “The little guy grabbed Nightmare Moon by the horn, literally, and now, he’s sweating like he ran through a rain cloud. What’s up with that?”

“I’ll have to talk to him about this,” Twilight said with concern in her voice. “Before I head off, what reasons do you two have for wanting to go?”

“For me,” Pinkie said. “The Gala is the biggest, most ginormous, super duper party of all! I’ve always, always, ALWAYS wanted to go!”

“So, you’re just going to do something you basically do everyday?” Twilight said dryly.

“Yeah,” Pinkie giggled. “Only this time, in Canterlot!”

“And you, Rainbow?” Twilight asked.

“Well,” Rainbow explained. “Every year, the Wonderbolts perform a stunt show at the Gala. So, with me going to the gala, this’ll be my chance to show them my stuff!”

Twilight was surprised. “Huh,” she admitted. “I have to say, that’s the best reason I’ve heard thus far. You’re getting a chance to meet your heroes. It’s not often that anypony gets such an opportunity.”

“Hey, thanks,” Rainbow said with a smile. “Now, who should I give the extra ticket to?”

“I offered my plus 1 ticket to Spike,” said Twilight. “But, he seemed nervous about it.”

Meanwhile, Spike was still running. He looked back for a moment before tripping and landing face-first in the knothole of a tree.

“Oof!” Spike said interjection-wise. He tried getting himself out, but, to no avail. “This is embarrassing,” he complained.

At that very moment, Rarity and Fluttershy were on a walk when they saw Spike’s backside sticking out of the tree.

“Oh, dear!” Rarity gasped. “Spike, darling, are you alright?”

“Oh, no!” Spike said, his voice echoing off the inside of the tree. “Why did Rarity have to see me in this embarrassing situation?”

Rarity and Fluttershy both helped to get Spike out of the knothole. Fluttershy grabbed Spike’s left leg while Rarity pulled the right. Their combined efforts freed the little dragon. “How did you get stuck in the first place?” Rarity asked.

“Oh, uh,” Spike stammered. “I was looking for you two to give you these.”

He handed them both the invitations and tickets. “The Gala?!” gasped Rarity. “I design ensembles for the gala every year, but, I've never had the opportunity to attend. Oh, the society, the culture, the glamor! It's where I truly belong and where I'm destined to meet him.”

“Him who, Rarity?” Spike asked.

“Why, my dream stallion, of course,” said Rarity with an enthusiastic smile.

“That’s not really clearing anything up for me,” Spike said dryly.

"Oh, sorry," giggled the white unicorn. "It's just… I've heard so many stories about him…" she closed her eyes dreamily.

"I would stroll through the gala, and everyone would wonder, ‘Who is that mysterious mare?’ They would never guess that I was just a simple pony from little old Ponyville,” Rarity continued dreamily. “Why, I would cause such a sensation that I would be invited for an audience with Princess Celestia herself and the princess would be so taken with the style and elegance that she would introduce me to him, her nephew: the most handsome, eligible unicorn stallion in Canterlot. Our eyes would meet, our hearts would melt. Our courtship would be magnificent. He would ask for my hoof in marriage and of course I would say, ‘Yes!’ We would have a royal wedding, befitting a princess, which is what I would become upon marrying him, the stallion of my dreams.”

“Wait,” Spike said. “Your dream stallion is Blueblood?”

"Why, of course," giggled Rarity. "I haven't actually met him, but, I'm sure he's as charming as the princes I read about when I was a filly."

Spike winced. “I hate to break it to you,” he said. “But, maybe you should lower your expectations a bit.”

"Oh my goodness," gasped Rarity. "I should take the time to get to know him better. You're right, Spike. My foalish behavior is getting the better of me. And… my, what am I going to WEAR?! I should check my wardrobe."

She galloped off to check.

“That’s not exactly what I meant,” Spike said. Too late, Fluttershy was the only one who heard him. She noticed that Spike seemed cautious about something.

"S-Spike?" The butter-yellow pegasus whispered.

Spike turned to look at Fluttershy’s eyes, which seemed to radiate concern for him. “Yes, Fluttershy?”

"Did you… meet Blueblood at all?"

“Do you want the honest answer?” Spike asked.

Fluttershy nodded.

“I have,” Spike confessed. “I’ve been trying to tell Rarity that he might not be the stallion she thinks he is.”

"Well… Rarity is sort of a hopeless romantic," sighed Fluttershy. "I'm not sure she'll listen…"

“I see,” sighed the dragon. “Okay. I don’t like it, but, Rarity will have to learn the hard way what kind of stallion Blueblood really is.” He then glanced at Fluttershy. "What reasons do you have for going to the gala?"

"Well… it's not so much the Grand Galloping Gala as it is the wondrous private gated garden that surrounds the dance," she explained. "The flowers are said to be the most beautiful and fragrant in all of Equestria. For the night of the gala, and that night alone, would they all be in bloom... and that's just the flora! Don't get me started on the fauna. There's loons and toucans and bitterns, oh my! Hummingbirds that can really hum and buzzards that can really buzz. White-blue jays, red jays, green jays, pink jays, and pink flamingos!"

Spike considered Fluttershy’s reason. “Well, that DOES sound like a good reason,” he admitted before muttering under his breath. “Not that I’ll ever get to know.”

At that moment, Fluttershy noticed that she had two tickets.

"Oh dear," she gasped. "Did Rarity forget hers?"

“No, actually,” Spike explained. “You and the other girls got two tickets each so you can invite anypony you want.”

"Oh wow!" Gasped Fluttershy. "This is incredible. Who do I pick?"

Spike shrugged. “It’s up to you,” he said.

“Oh, that’s a hard decision for me to make,” Fluttershy admitted. “I wouldn’t want to disappoint anypony and Twilight’s probably already asked you.”

Spike rubbed the back of his head nervously. “Well, she did,” he admitted. “But, I decided to let her give her spare ticket to somepony else.” Spike flashed his nervous smile again.

"Wh-why?" Asked Fluttershy. "If you don't have anything to wear, I'm sure Rarity would want to make a dragon sized tux just for you. She likes trying new designs."

“Oh, look at the time,” Spike said, looking at his wrist and pretending he had a watch. “I better go help the other girls find their plus 1s!” He then ran off, leaving a confused and concerned Fluttershy behind.

Meanwhile, the other mares were trying to think of who to take with them.

"Well, ah think mah choice is simple," said Applejack. "Ah'm goin' with Caramel."

“You pretty much already chose him before we left Sweet Apple Acres,” Twilight said. “But, the rest of us haven’t decided yet.” She looked at Pinkie and Rainbow. "Do you two have a really close friend who would have a good time at the Gala?"

Pinkie pondered. “Hmm… well, Royal Pin’s a maybe for me,” she said. “Though, he has a habit of popping balloons with his horn when dancing.”

“Oh yeah," said Rainbow Dash. "That may not be too good for the Gala."

“Maybe you could go with Shoeshine, Rainbow,” Pinkie suggested.

“After that fling I had with her?” Rainbow said. “Not a chance. You know how I feel about other ponies touching my hooves.”

“Wait, her?” Twilight asked, getting curious.

“I’m bi, Twilight,” Rainbow said, defensively. “You got a problem with that?”

"Not at all," gasped Twilight. "I'm just curious."

The mares suddenly saw Rarity trot by.

"Hey, Rarity!" Called Pinkie. "Got any ideas for your plus 1?"

Rarity suddenly stopped in her tracks. “Plus 1, darling?”

“Ya didn’t see two tickets in yer scroll?” Applejack asked.

Rarity checked her scroll and noticed two tickets. “Huh,” she said. “How about that? Hmm… Twilight, did you ask Spike to be your plus 1?”

"I did," said Twilight. "But, he refused. I don't know why."

“He did?” asked a surprised Rarity. “That’s odd. We’ve only known Spike for a week or so and in that time, he’s never turned down the opportunity to partake in pony social events before.”

"Ah know," sighed Applejack. "Rare, do ya have any ideas on who ta pick fer yer plus 1?"

“Well, the thought to make Spike my plus 1 just crossed my mind,” Rarity admitted. “I figured it would be a good reward for all his help around my boutique lately.”

"It can't hurt to try," said Twilight. "Maybe you'll have better luck than me. But, if so, there's the question of who I will bring. I haven't known ponies in Ponyville that long outside of you girls and Fluttershy."

“Well, you might consider Comet Tail,” Rarity suggested. “He’s quite skilled in magic, too.”

"I think I'll chat with him a bit more," said Twilight. "I did see him around the marketplace the other day and he's nice."

At that moment, a nervous Spike approached the mares in a sprint. Once he was close enough, he stopped to catch his breath. “Whew!” he panted. “I’m REALLY out of shape.”

"Spike?" asked Pinkie. "Are you okay?"

Spike straightened himself out. “Fine, Pinkie,” he said, pretending nothing was wrong. “Why wouldn’t I be when I’m helping my friends pick their plus 1s? I know Applejack picked hers. Who’s left?”

"Well, Pinkie and Rainbow are kind of stuck," said Rarity, "not sure on Fluttershy's end, seeing as I left before hearing her reasons for wanting to go."

Spike sighed in relief. “Okay,” he said. “Come on, Pinkie and Rainbow, let’s walk around town and find you each somepony to give your spare tickets.”

Pinkie stepped up to Spike. “Spike, you’re acting a little weird today,” she commented.

“You KNOW something’s weird when PINKIE’S the one saying that,” added Rainbow.

"Yeah…" trailed Twilight. "Spike, do you wish to talk–"

"Later!" cried Spike as he dragged Rainbow and Pinkie off.

“I don’t need my Mystic Eyes to see that something’s bothering Spike,” Rarity said.

"Indeed," sighed Twilight. "Let's go and see if Fluttershy made her choice yet."

But, they needn’t have bothered, for at that moment, a concerned Fluttershy trotted up to them. “Um, have any of you seen Spike?” she asked. “I’m worried about him.”

"He was just here not a minute ago," Applejack explained. “He left with Pinkie n’ Rainbow.”

“Twilight,” Fluttershy said. “Spike said he turned down your offer to be your plus 1. Is that true?”

Twilight nodded. "I mean, it's not unheard of for ponies to ask family members to go to the Gala. My brother’s gone every year and has even invited Spike over the last three years. Up until last year, Spike always seemed excited about the prospect of going there."

"So, somethin’ must’ve changed in the last year," said Applejack.

“But, what could it be?” questioned Rarity.

Twilight pondered hard. “If memory serves, each time he came back, he seemed to have a slight tear in his eye.”

“Well, we ain’t findin’ out what’s eatin’ him just standin’ here,” Applejack reasoned. “We better follow him n’ ask him.”

The others nodded and galloped off, even Fluttershy who could have flown, but, didn't.

"Spike?" called Twilight. "Where are you?"

Spike was dragging Pinkie and Rainbow around town when they reached a store called Quills and Sofas. Rainbow broke free of Spike’s grip.

“Okay, Spike,” she said. “Something’s clearly bugging you. You literally grabbed Nightmare Moon by the horn a week ago and now, you’re sweating so much, anypony would think you walked through a rain cloud. What’s the deal?”

“Yeah,” agreed Pinkie Pie. “What in Celestia’s name is going on? We’ve known you for eight days now and you never turned down a chance to socialize with ponies before. Why start now?”

Spike twiddled his claws and looked at the ground.

“Well…” Spike stammered. “You see… it’s…”

At that moment, Twilight and the others caught up. “There you are, Spike,” said the worried lavender unicorn.

“Are you feeling okay?” Fluttershy asked sympathetically. “You look sick to your stomach.”

Spike’s sweat began turning into steam. “I’m fine, Fluttershy,” he said, unconvincingly.

“When somepony says they’re fine,” Applejack said. “That usually means they ain’t fine.”

“Spike,” Twilight said warmly. “You know you can tell us anything, don’t you?”

“Tell us why you don’t want to go, darling,” said Rarity.

Spike’s nervousness quickly turned into anger. “You think I don’t want to go?” he said. “Of course I do! But, it’ll never happen!” He then ran off to the Golden Oak Library.

"What kind of response was that?!" Gasped Rainbow Dash. "He wants to go, but, refuses to?"

“Wait a minute,” said Twilight. “Something just occurred to me.”

“What’s that, Twilight?” asked Fluttershy.

“There’s only six scrolls,” Twilight said.

Rarity gasped. “What if this means that Spike thought he didn’t get his own invitation and he feels left out?”

“But, he helped defeat Nightmare Moon just like the rest of us,” Pinkie commented. “Why wouldn’t he get invited?”

“Maybe that’s why Spike was so nervous and upset.” Twilight said. “We have to find him and talk to him.”

“He was headed for the library,” said Rainbow. “If we hurry, we can catch up.”

Soon, they reached the Golden Oaks Library.

“Spike?” asked Twilight. "We're here." No answer came.

“Poor Spike.” Fluttershy said sadly. “If only there was something we could do to help him.”

Suddenly, the mares heard the sound of quiet sobbing. They followed it and found Spike sitting in a fetal position, crying into his arms.

“Spike?” Rarity said. “We know now why you’re upset.”

“Yeah,” Applejack said. “Ya helped defeat Nightmare Moon with us and yer right. Ya shoulda got yer own invitation.”

Spike sniffled. “It’s not the fact that I didn’t get invited,” he said. “It’s what happened the three times I tried going with Shining Armor.”

“So, what happened?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Every time I tried going to the Gala,” said the young dragon. “I wasn’t allowed past the front gates.”

“What?!” Pinkie gasped. “They’re denying you entrance to a party that you had a proper invitation to? That’s the worstest news ever!”

“The Gala is a ponies only event,” Spike said. “I’m not a pony, so, I can never go no matter how much I want to. Last time I tried, the guards were getting ready to throw me in the dungeon. If Shining Armor hadn’t stopped them, I’d still be there by now. Besides, it's in the name: ‘grand galloping gala.’ Last I checked, dragons don't gallop."

The ponies were heartbroken by this news. Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie looked at each other and they nodded. They knew what they had to do. Rarity prepared a note.

“I believe a friendship lesson has been learned here,” she said.

“Dear Princess Celestia,” Twilight began. “One of the joys of friendship is to share your blessings. But, when the prize doesn’t seem worth it, it can make your friends feel pretty awful. So, although I appreciate the invitation, I will be returning both my tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala.”

“What?!” Spike gasped in surprise.

“If Spike isn’t allowed to go,” Twilight added. “Then, I don’t want to go either.”

“No prince charming is worth seeing a dear friend unhappy," agreed Rarity. "Here, take mine."

"Maybe I could ask Princess Celestia to see the garden in bloom without going to the Gala," added Fluttershy, adding her tickets to the collection.

"I can throw a better party," said Pinkie, "one that does invite dragons!" She gave her tickets up, too.

"Well… it would be hard to impress my idols with these," said Rainbow, "but, I'm not giving up on that so easily." She added her tickets, too.

Spike felt touched that most of his friends were willing to give up their tickets for him and took a cleansing breath. He set the message on fire, causing the smoke to fly out an open window.

The other ponies, sans Twilight, were surprised. “What just happened?” Pinkie asked.

"That's how I send messages," said Spike. "Didn't you girls see that in the last week?"

“I think we’d’ve remembered that,” said Rainbow. “I didn’t know dragon fire could even do that. I just thought it burned stuff.”

“Ah learned o’ somethin’ like this earlier,” Applejack said. “It works when he gets messages, too.”

Meanwhile, in Canterlot, the message Spike sent materialized before the two alicorn princesses.

"What in Equestria?" cried Luna.

“Oh, Spike just sent me a message, Luna,” Celestia explained calmly. “You’ll get used to it.” She used her magic to unfold the scroll. "Huh? The Grand Galloping Gala tickets? Or, ten of the twelve I sent."

Luna was still confused on how Spike sent the message. “Sister, how did yon dragon send thine message? We’ve never known dragon fire to do this.”

“I’ll explain later, Luna,” Celestia explained while reading the letter. “Oh dear.”

“What troubles thou, sister?” asked Luna.

“It seems that your feelings 1000 years ago aren’t the only thing I’ve overlooked,” Celestia answered. “I’m going to have a stern talk with my guards. And, I have something very important to give to Spike.”

She wrote a response and attached five of the golden tickets and a ticket that seemed to be made of platinum. The message was rolled up and set aflame. “Now that that’s taken care of, I believe it’s time we abolished the species limitation for the Gala.”

Back at the Golden Oak Library, Spike seemed a bit sad.

“What’s wrong, Spike?” Twilight asked.

“I might not have a chance of going,” Spike admitted. “But, I wouldn’t want you to give up yours.”

“It’s okay, Spike,” Twilight said with a reassuring smile. “I couldn’t enjoy myself if you weren’t there. So, I’d rather not go at all.”

“I haven’t really perfected my stunts yet, either,” Rainbow said. “I’ll try again next year.”

“And I’ll always have my cottage home and animals to be with,” Fluttershy said.

“I wouldn’t want a good friend to be left behind and miss out on fun,” Pinkie said. “You’ve missed out on too much already.”

“We’d do anything for you, Spike,” Rarity said warmly.

“Ah already gave Caramel mah spare ticket,” Applejack admitted. “It wouldn’t be very friendly-like if ah returned mine n’ let him go alone. Sorry, Spike. If’n it makes ya feel better, ah feel downright rotten goin’ with the knowledge yer missin’ somethin’ ya wanted so long.”

“It’s okay, Applejack,” Spike said. “You didn’t know.” His cheeks suddenly puffed up. “Uh oh. Message incoming!”

"Get a bucket!" Cried Pinkie, racing off. "Emergency buckets are stashed all over Ponyville, in case of a bucket emergency."

Spike belched a cloud of smoke that materialized into a scroll.

"O--kay," said Pinkie. "That's a relief, but, very unexpected."

Spike picked up the scroll and began reading it.

“My faithful student Twilight,” he read. “This is something I should have done a long time ago. I apologize for any heartache or inconvenience I’ve caused you and Spike.”

He then discovered the five golden tickets and the platinum one. “She sent five tickets back and gave…” Spike looked closely at the platinum ticket. “...a VIP pass?!”

The ponies gasped happily. “You got a VIP pass, Spike,” exclaimed Twilight.

Spike was confused. “But, the Gala’s ponies only.” He then noticed something else on the scroll. “Wait. To Spike, my sister and I are currently in the process of abolishing the ponies only policy for the next Gala. Until the abolition is finalized, I’m giving you a VIP pass so that you can finally attend the Gala as you wanted. Consider this recognition of your aid in defeating Nightmare Moon and a heartfelt apology from me. If the guards or other attendees give you a difficult time, don’t hesitate to report to me or my sister.”

“Now we can all go!” Twilight said happily. “You included, Spike!” She and the other mares hugged Spike close.

“This calls for a celebration,” Pinkie said. “We’ll treat you to dinner tonight!”

“Last one ta get ta dinner is a rotten apple!" grinned Applejack.

The ponies and dragon headed out as the grateful young drake shed a few more tears of joy.

The end.

Chapter 4: Applebuck Season (S1:E4)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 4: Applebuck Season

One week had passed since the invitation to the Grand Galloping Gala. In that time, Applejack’s older brother, Big McIntosh had injured himself using the rusty plow used on Sweet Apple Acres. He and Applejack looked over the fields and the apples that were ready to be picked.

“Whoo-wee!” Applejack said overlooking the field. “We sure got one heck o’ a successful apple crop this year! N' it’ll be a big job gettin’ ‘em all bucked down.”

“Eeyup,” observed the red stallion. “Too big fer y’all ta handle alone.”

“Don’t ya fret none, Big Mac,” Applejack smiled while accidentally touching the stallion’s injury. “Ya just rest up and get yerself healed up. Nurse Redheart says ya’ll feel better in no time.”

Big McIntosh winced and glared at Applejack and Applejack stopped touching his wound. “Oh… sorry ‘bout that.”

Big McIntosh wasn’t convinced her sister had everything under control. “Ya know, sis,” he said. “Ya don’t have ta do this alone. Ya ain’t invincible, ya know. If’n ah could get hurt towin’ that plow, ya could definitely hurt yerself workin’ those there fields. It wouldn’t hurt ta ask fer back up just this once.”

Applejack protested. “Ah can’t ask Apple Bloom. She’s too young fer applebuckin’. Ah can’t ask Granny Smith, neither. Her hip can’t handle applebuckin’ no more.”

“What about Caramel?” Big Mac asked.

“Ah love that stallion,” Applejack admitted. “But, we all know he’d forget his head if’n it weren’t attached.”

“Well, ya better ask someone else ya can trust.” Big Mac said with a gentle nod of his head. “Last thing we need is y’all bitin’ off more n’ ya can chew.”

“Are ya sayin’ mah mouth is makin’ promises mah legs can’t keep?” Applejack said, glaring a stink eye at Big McIntosh.

Big McIntosh’s reply was brief and blunt. “Eeyup. Last time ya tried bitin’ off more n’ ya can chew, it got us in hot water with Granny Smith at the hospital.”

Applejack knew Big Mac had a point, but, she still had a stubborn streak in her. “That was before ah understood things better. Besides, this is yer sister Applejack, remember? An honest pony n’ a dependable friend ta other ponies?!”

“But, yer still ONE pony,” Big McIntosh sheepishly replied. “Even when we work tagether at Applebuckin’, the harvest lasts fer weeks. If’n ya try it alone, it’ll take–”

“Don’t you use yer fancy mathematics to muddy the issue!” Snapped Applejack. “Ah’ll show ya! Ah’ll prove ta ya that ah can do this. As Celestia is mah witness, ah’ll harvest these apples all Applebuck Season all by myself before the month is done!”

Big McIntosh could see that his sister wasn’t going to be reasoned with. Rather than continue the obviously pointless argument, he sighed and admitted defeat. “Fine, AJ. Yer on yer own. Ah’ll be keepin’ an eye on ya since that’s the best work ah can do right now. But, when that there stubbornness o’ yers starts causin’ y’all n’ the rest o’ Ponyville problems, don’t come cryin’ ta me. Ah’ll just say, ‘ah told ya so.’”

Applejack heard her brother’s words, but, took no notice. However, as she looked over the fields again, she suddenly began to feel uneasy. She knew from years of experience how difficult harvesting her family’s crops could be even WITH Big McIntosh’s help. But, she felt it was too soon to go back on her word now. What’ve ah gotten mahself into? She mentally chastised herself.

She knew that if she had to get the job done, she had to get a start on it. So, she readied an empty basket to collect apples into. She was about to buck the bark of the tree, when suddenly, she felt the ground shaking. “Uh oh,” she said. “Sounds like them cows’re spooked again.”

A short distance away, the rest of Ponyville was slowly becoming aware of the tremors. Rainbow Dash, who was flying up ahead, could see what was happening.

“STAMPEDE!” She shouted, alerting the Ponyville citizens. Sure enough, a herd of cows were rushing towards the town. Countless ponies went into a state of panic.

However, Pinkie let the vibrations shake her about. “This makes my voice sound silly!” Pinkie said in a distorted voice.

“Pinkie, what are you doing?!” Twilight shouted. “Run for your life!”

“Why don’t you just use a force field spell around the town?” asked Spike, who was on Twilight’s back.

“You know I’m not as good with combative magic as Shining Armor!” the lavender unicorn cried. “The biggest one I can manage right now can only cover myself in one direction!”

The cows continued to stampede towards Ponyville. However, a short way behind them was Applejack and her dog, Winona. They were running after the cows, trying to corral them away from the ponies. “Put ‘em up, Winona!”

Winona barked a response and she went to work, herding the cows. Applejack made her way onto one of the cows.

“Yee-haw!” Applejack hollered. “Ride ‘em, cowpony!” She lassoed the cow at the front.

It did take a lot of effort, but, Applejack and Winona were able to calm down the herd of cattle after diverting them from Ponyville. “Now, what in tarnation happened, gals?” Applejack inquired, speaking in a subtly deeper tone of voice than normal. She was speaking in a rather bovine dialect of Ponish known as Bovinian. Speaking in this dialect required the one speaking to sound almost as if they were mooing.

“Moo~” One cow mooed, before clearing her throat. “Oh, powerful sorry, dearie. It’s just that Mooriel saw a rattlesnake and it gave us the jitters.”

“Ah understand,” Applejack soothed. “Ah don’t care fer snakes, neither. Just steer clear o’ Ponyville next time.”

“Mmm, we will, dearie.” The cow, whose name was Daisy Jo, said. “Sorry if we caused you any trouble.”

“Don’t fret none,” Applejack replied. “Winona needed some exercise, anyhow.”

Winona barked happily and wagged her tail. Applejack and the dog led the cows away while the citizens of Ponyville cheered.

“Applejack was awesome!” Spike exclaimed.

“Yes,” Twilight said with a smile. “She and Winona were very brave, too.”

“We should throw a celebration for her,” suggested Pinkie. “She deserves it.”

“Why, that’s a splendid idea, Pinkie Pie.” Mayor Mare smiled. “We can host a ceremony in front of Town Hall. This is hardly the first time Applejack’s come through for the town. It’s time she gets the recognition she deserves.”

Spike nodded feverishly. He wasn’t always recognized for his own hard work, so, he, more than most ponies, knew the importance of recognition. “Can I help plan it out?” he offered.

“Of course you may, Spike,” Mayor Mare smiled. “From your time here, it’s clear that you’re smarter than your age would suggest. Additionally, your youth gives you a fresh perspective compared to the older members of the Ponyville Party Planning Committee.”

“Who are the other members?” Twilight asked.

“I’m the founder,” Pinkie replied.

“I’m a member.” Rarity smiled.

“There’s also Lemony Gem,” Pinkie said, pointing to a yellow unicorn mare with an aqua mane and tail with a streak of darker aqua, cerulean eyes, and a cutie mark of three brilliant-cut diamonds.

“Oh, I know her!” cried Twilight. “She’s Lemon Hearts’ big sister. She moved to Ponyville with her husband Buck Withers a few months after they got married.”

“Great,” said Pinkie. “You’ll get along with her no problem.”

“Maybe you can join, Twilight,” Spike suggested. “You’re great at organizing things.”

“Thanks, Spike,” Twilight said. “Though, I’m not sure how well I could juggle the meetings and my other responsibilities.”

“Tell you what,” Pinkie offered. “You help us out at the meetings and we’ll help you out with whatever you’ve got.”

“I don’t see why not,” Twilight said. “Alright, I’ll do it.”

It took a week to organize the party, but, it was soon in the decorating stage. Pegasi had flown up to place a banner on the top balcony of Town Hall. Rarity was securing a ribbon to a post when Twilight stepped up. She had a speech written down on flash cards and she organized them by tapping them on the top base of the podium. “Are we all ready, Rarity?”

“Just a second, please.” Rarity said, focusing on a ribbon tied to the podium. She then adjusted it slightly. “And finished. Everything’s ready.”

“Great!” Twilight said. “Is Applejack ready for her big moment?”

“I don’t know, to be honest.” admitted Rainbow Dash. “I haven’t seen her yet today. Come to think of it, I haven’t seen her all week. Nopony has.”

“They haven’t?” Asked Twilight, noticeable concern in her voice. “I hope she’s alright.”

“Don’t worry,” Rainbow reassured her. “Applejack’s never late. She’ll show up.”

“I hope so,” Twilight said. She then trotted up to the podium. She had made a speech on a series of note cards and brought them close to her with her magic as she declared. "Welcome, everypony! Today we are here to honor a pony we can always count on to help in matters great and small. A pony whose contributions to-"

“Did you see how fast Applejack herded those cows?!” Interrupted Rainbow Dash. “She’s one of the most athletic ponies in Ponyville, next to me. I asked her to help me with a stunt I’ve been working on and it’ll be so Awesome!”

“First off, you said you hadn’t seen her all week,” the disgruntled unicorn said. “Second, YOU INTERRUPTED MY SPEECH!”

“Hehe,” Rainbow chuckled sheepishly. “Sorry. I was excited about that. I asked her to help me shortly after the rescue.”

“Is that all you had to say?” Twilight asked, still clearly annoyed by the rude interruption.

Seeing this, Rainbow Dash sheepishly chuckled and flew out of the way. “Thank you,” Twilight said. “Now, as I was saying before I was so rudely interrupt–”

“Oh! Twilight!” Pinkie squeaked excitedly.

Twilight’s eye twitched. “Yes, Pinkie?” she said, trying to keep her temper under control. “What is it?”

“Applejack’s also one of the best bakers in all of Ponyville, next to Mr. and Mrs. Cake,” the pink pony chirped. “That’s why a few days before the Stampede, I asked Applejack to help me with baking some muffins while the Cakes are away on their honeymoon. Free samples for everypony!”

The ponies in the crowd cheered at the announcement. The impatient lavender unicorn pushed Pinkie aside. “That’s good news to hear, Pinkie. Now, if I could continue making my speech without being inter–”

“Um, Twilight?” Fluttershy asked timidly.

Twilight forced herself to sigh as she stepped aside yet again. "-rupted. Go ahead, Fluttershy."

“I’m sorry to interrupt, Twilight,” she said. “But, I wanted to say that Applejack will be helping me as well. She’ll be helping me with the baby bunny census. With her and Winona’s herding skills, we’ll be able to gently round up all of the baby bunnies that have been born this year.”

She then stepped down from the podium. Twilight glared at the rest of the audience. “Does anypony else want to say something or will I have to wait to be cut off again?”
No one in the audience responded. “Rarity?” Twilight eyed the unicorn fashionista. “Anything Applejack’s helping you with?” Rarity quietly shook her head no. Twilight then turned her attention to Spike. “And you, Spike? Is there anything you asked Applejack to help you with that you conveniently forgot to tell me about?” Spike simply shook his head no. In the audience, Caramel was about to raise a hoof before Spike silently told him not to. “Nopony else has anything to say?”
Outside of an awkward cough from the crowd, there was absolute silence. Twilight started sighing in relief. “Thank you. Now, as I was trying to–”

But, Mayor Mare was staring intently at Twilight, with a huge excited smile on her face. This was the last straw for Twilight. She scattered her flashcards in frustration. “THREE DAYS OF WORK WASTED! THREE DAYS!”

“Thank you, Twilight.” Mayor Mare said. “And now, to present the award for Pony of the Year. Today, we celebrate a pony of extraordinary trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity. Ponyville’s most capable friend… Applejack!”

Spike and the ponies cheered. However, the ponies stopped once they saw Applejack wasn’t behind the curtain. Spike hadn’t registered this yet and still cheered. "Cool! Way to go Applejack, that was awesome!" When he opened his eyes and saw that he was the only one cheering and the one he was cheering for wasn’t even there, Spike subsided and blushed bright pink while scratching the ground with his spade-like tail tip, a little tic he had for when he was embarrassed.

Suddenly, a voice from the crowd caught their attention. “Here ah am, y’all.” yawned the voice. “Sorry ah’m late, everyone.” It was Applejack, though her voice sounded deflated as if she had a lot of wind knocked out of her. Her mane and tail had a few loose ends sticking out, she had faintly visible bags underneath her eyes and she appeared to have two little sacks holding apples on either side of her that were spilling apples as she walked. She was able to make her way to the Town Hall and walked rather clumsily up to her trophy. “Thanks kindly, everypony, fer the fancy award. It’s all bright and shiny, n’-” She was suddenly caught off-guard by her rather warped looking reflection in the trophy. “Hehe… ah sure do look funny.” She started making funny noises at it.

“Okay, I can’t be the only one who thinks Applejack’s acting a bit off today,” Spike whispered to Twilight as Pinkie joined in Applejack’s noises.

“No, I’ve noticed too,” Twilight whispered back to Spike. She then spoke to Applejack directly. “Are you okay, Applejack? You’re acting a bit off today.”

Applejack yawned yet again. "It ain't anythin' ya need ta worry yerself about, sugarcube. Just a bit tired from workin' hard, that's all. Ya know me. Ah like helpin' all the ponyfolks n’ stuff," she yawned again and then began to snore before quickly shaking herself awake. "Huh, what?!" She quickly seemed to regain her composure as the earth pony smiled, taking her trophy with her. "Oh, uh, yeah. Uh, Thanks. See ya around." And her exit was accompanied by the sounds of the trophy being dragged across the ground. Twilight, Spike, and the other friends gathered around each other to discuss this.

Spike found his voice first. “Something’s definitely going on here. Applejack looks so… Let me see if I got this…”

“Tired?” Rainbow Dash said.

“Dizzy?” put in Fluttershy.

“A little messy?” Rarity added. The others just looked at her. “You saw the state of her mane. She might not worry too much about appearance, but, she takes better care of herself than THAT. I speak from experience.”

“I see.” Twilight said. “Spike, I think you and I should go talk to Applejack and see what’s going on.”

“Way ahead of you, Twilight,” said the young dragon as he climbed onto Twilight’s back.

Pinkie Pie, however, just declared with a smile. "Applejack sure seemed fine to me. She's made of tough stuff, I'm sure she'll bounce back in no time. Besides, she was clearly having fun," And she imitated the funny sounds Applejack had been making earlier. "Woo! Woo!"

Twilight, however, still wasn’t sure.

Later, she and Spike were seen walking up to Sweet Apple Acres. There, they saw the farm mare hard at work bucking apples into baskets below their trees. She was stumbling rather clumsily. “I don’t like the looks of this, Twilight,” Spike said.

“Neither do I, Spike.” Twilight said. She then walked up to Applejack. “Applejack, can we talk?” Twilight’s question fell on deaf ears as the farm mare fell asleep standing up. ”Applejack?!” said Twilight, a bit louder than before. Though, just like before, Applejack didn’t answer. “Okay, this obviously isn’t working. Spike, remember that toy trumpet Shining Armor got you for your birthday last year?”

“The one you told me not to play when you’re around?” Spike asked.

“Well,” Twilight said. “I’m going to need you to play a loud note this time.”

“Slight problem there,” Spike sheepishly confessed. “I… kind of gave it back to Shining Armor a month after I got it. I figured since you’d be around me most of the time anyway, there’s no point in keeping it.”

“Oh, I see.” Twilight said, beginning to regret her decision since it got rid of a potentially useful item. “It’s alright, I’ve got this. You may want to cover your ears.” Spike obediently did so. So, Twilight shouted at the top of her lungs to Applejack. “APPLEJACK, WAKE UP!”

The farm mare woke with a start.

“Huh, what?” Applejack stammered. “Oh, hi, Twilight. Howdy, Spike. What can ah do fer ya?”

“I just said,” Twilight continued. “Can we talk?”

“Some other time, Twilight. It’s Applebuck Season,” the farm mare replied.

“Uh, we don’t know what that is,” Spike commented.

“It’s when we Apples have ta harvest the apples from the trees before the end o’ the summer,” the farm mare explained.

“Didn’t you already finish harvesting like two weeks ago?” asked a confused Spike.

“Not even close,” Applejack said. “We’ve got so many trees, harvest time can last fer WEEKS.”

“Weeks?” Twilight asked in surprise. “Why isn't anypony helping you?”

“Big Mac injured himself pullin’ the plow, Granny Smith’s too old, n’ Apple Bloom ain’t old ENOUGH,” Applejack exclaimed.

“And what about all the family members we met on our first day here?” Spike asked.

“They were just here fer the Apple family reunion,” Applejack explained. “They left after the Summer Sun Celebration.”

“That was a massive bit of discussion among the others when we met them,” Twilight sighed. “Rainbow even said that the ones that came wasn’t even the whole Apple family.”

“Nope,” confirmed Applejack. “They live all over Equestria. Well, there’s one member who moved ta Saddle Arabia, but, we don’t really talk about him.”

“I see,” Twilight said. “Still, with all of the trees that need their apples kicked down, it’s a lot of work for just you. You need help!”

“Help? No way, no how. Everythin's under control," the farm mare protested.

“I wouldn’t be too sure about that, Applejack,” commented Spike. “You look pretty overworked. I lived with Twilight for my whole life, so, I know what that looks like.”

Twilight could only blush with embarrassment, remembering her all-nighers and overzealous studying. She cleared her throat. “That comment aside, I can clearly see that you can’t possibly do all this on your own.”

“Well,” Applejack snorted. “Ya focus on the things y’all know n’ I’ll focus on the things ah know!” She then trotted off.

Twilight and Spike exchanged worried looks before walking off themselves. “I hope we’re not making a mistake here, Spike,” Twilight said.

“I hope so, too,” Spike agreed. “She looks like she’s in way over her head. Geez, am I that bad?”

“Well…” Twilight said with slight hesitation. “You at least accept help when it’s offered?” She gave a nervous smile. That was all Spike needed to answer his question.

“I guess I could stand to work on that,” conceded Spike. “I don’t want to turn out like that.”

“As for Applejack,” Twilight said. “We have to trust her, but, we can’t let her carry on and exhaust herself. She’s going to have to learn to accept help at some point.”

About a day or two later, Rainbow Dash was waiting impatiently for Applejack on the outskirts of town. She was even perched atop a fence not unlike a bird until Applejack showed up. "There you are. You sure took your sweet time." She rudely remarked, not appearing to notice how exhausted and sleep deprived her friend seemed to be.

“S-sorry ah’m late, Rainbow,” Applejack panted. “So, what’s yer plan fer this here stunt?”

Rainbow led Applejack over to a catapult that had been set up underneath what looked like a high dive platform you might see at a swimming pool. "See this contraption?" Rainbow inquired.

Applejack, whose vision was getting blurry, had to focus deeply to see it. “Uh… barely. Is it behind that big wooden paddle?”

Rainbow looked confused. “Paddle? It’s a catapult.”

“Oh,” Applejack said with a sheepish chuckle. “So, what are ya plannin’ ta do with it?”

Rainbow explained. "Well, I'm going to stand on one end, then you're going to jump down from that platform up there, launching me into the air faster than I can take off on my own. Then once I'm in the air, I'm going to do some amazing flips and spins that are sure to impress the Wonderbolts. No way will they miss it!"

“Well,” Applejack said. “That sounds mighty dandy. But, ain’t that dangerous?”

“Yeah~” Rainbow chuckled. “That’s what makes it a stunt! Besides, I can fly, remember?”

“Oh, heh.” Applejack chuckled. “Right.”

Rainbow set herself on the down end of the catapult. “There’s a ladder leading to the high platform. Climb it and wait on the platform for my signal.”

“Okie dokie,” Applejack smiled, stumbling up the ladder. When she got to the top, she had trouble seeing the other end. “Uhhh…”

Rainbow called out. "Ready? One... two... THREE!"

Applejack jumped from the tall platform, but, instead of landing on the opposite side of the catapult, she landed on the ground next to it face-first. Luckily, she wasn't hurt. But, Rainbow Dash was more than a little annoyed by her friend's mistake. "Umm... maybe I wasn't clear. You're supposed to land on the other end. Now get back up there and try it again!" The brash speedster commanded.

“Got it!” Applejack wearily responded, her eyes losing focus. She tried a second attempt and she landed on her bottom. A third attempt, she landed on her back. And a fourth attempt, she lands on her face again. None of the landings sent Rainbow Dash flying.

It didn't take long for Rainbow Dash to lose what little patience she hadn't already lost from waiting for her friend earlier. "Applejack, what the Tartarus is going on? I mean, I thought I was working with Ponyville's best athlete! Or should I just take back that title now?"

Applejack shook her head rapidly, snapping herself out of her dizzy spell. “No, that won't be necessary!” She said. “Ah’m okay, really! Ah got an idea.” She pulled down the other end completely, which prompted Rainbow to scowl.

“Okay, that was just pathetic,” Rainbow scolded. “You’re not even trying!”

“O-okay,” Applejack said sheepishly. “We’ll try one more time, n’ this time Ah’ll get it.” She let go of the catapult. As she did, Rainbow finally noticed the sleep deprived look in the farm mare’s eyes. Unfortunately, this split-second distraction meant she couldn’t open her wings in time for her end to come down, slamming her into the ground.

“Oof!” Rainbow Dash grunted.

Applejack made it to the high platform and focused her eyes intensely, finally able to accurately judge where the catapult was.

“Hehe,” Applejack said softly before calling out. “Here ah go!” She then backed up and made a splendid leap off of the platform.

A horrified Rainbow screamed. "Wait..." But, her warning came too late to stop what was coming. Before she had a chance to react, she was launched into the air from her grounded position, not in the take off ready form she'd had earlier. "Applejaaaaack!" She cried at the top of her lungs before disappearing in a twinkle.

“Yer welcome!” Applejack called out with a smile on her face.

Meanwhile, Spike was cleaning the balcony of the Golden Oaks Library with Twilight when suddenly, Rainbow crashed into it.

“Rainbow!” Twilight gasped in alarm. “Are you alright? Do you need any help?”

“I think somepony else needs your help more,” Rainbow replied. “Three guesses who and the first two don’t count.”

“Applejack…” Twilight said, knowing too well.

“Looks like we SHOULDN’T have left her after all,” Spike said. “This problem’s getting worse.”

“You’re right, Spike,” Twilight nodded. “We better go back and see her.”

“You go ahead,” Spike offered. “I’ll help Rainbow get unstuck.”

“Alright, Spike,” Twilight said. “But, be careful, okay?”

“Yes, ‘mom,’” Spike sarcastically quipped before feeling a bit odd. “Did that feel weird to anypony else?” Neither Twilight nor Rainbow answered. “Just me then? Okay.”

So, while Spike was helping Rainbow Dash, Twilight made her way back to Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack bucked a few apples down, but, none landed in baskets.

“Applejack?” Twilight asked. Taken by surprise by Twilight’s voice, Applejack hit her head on a branch, making her ears ring. The farm mare turned her head to look at Twilight. “Can we talk?”

Applejack completely misunderstood as she shouted back. "Can bees squawk? Ah don't think so! Why do ya ask?"

“No,” the confused Twilight said, a bit louder. “I said, ‘can we talk?!’”

Once again, Applejack misheard. "Twenty stalks? Bean er celery? Take yer pick."

“No,” Twilight said, even louder as her patience wore thin. “I need to talk to you!”

"Ya need ta walk ta the zoo?" Applejack asked as she was still unable to understand what Twilight was saying. "Well, what's stoppin' ya? Somepony givin' ya trouble?"

“NO!” Twilight shouted. “I NEED TO TALK TO YOU!”

This time Applejack managed to hear correctly. "Oh, well why didn't ya just say so?" But, her voice was still at shouting level, probably because in her sleep deprived state she didn't realize how loud she sounded. "What did y’all plan ta talk about? Make it quick, ah need ta get back ta work."

“That’s what I came to talk to you about,” Twilight said, trying to calm down. “Rainbow Dash just dropped in for a visit. Quite literally, in fact.”

“That’s mighty neighborly,” Applejack said. “But, what’s that got ta do with me?”

“Well,” Twilight said. “Didn’t you agree to help her with flying tricks today?”

“Yeah?” said Applejack, still not making the connection.

“Well, when Rainbow literally dropped by,” Twilight explained. “She crashed into my balcony. It wasn't hard to put two and two together and find out that it was because of you. You sent her hurling through the air."

The farm mare blushed upon realizing this. "Oh, ah did? Gosh, ah am so sorry, Twilight. Really. Ah'm just not feelin' like mahself today, that's all."

“It’s because you've been working too hard all by yourself,” Twilight said. “You need help!”

"Kelp?! What's this about kelp?!" Applejack questioned as she blinked in confusion. "Ah don't even like seaweed, Twilight. Yer not makin' a lick o’ sense."

“HELP!” Twilight shouted. “YOU NEED HELP!”

"Come now, Twilight, Rainbow'll be just fine. It was an honest mistake," Applejack stubbornly insisted. "Ah appreciate yer concern, but, ah don't need help! Not from y’all n’ not from anypony!" She trotted away, only to bang her head on yet another tree branch. "Thanks fer stoppin' by, but, if ya don't mind ah'd like ta get a few more trees bucked before ah have ta go n’ help Fluttershy. Maybe ah'll even have time for a quick nap."

Twilight could only groan in frustration as she walked off, passing Apple Bloom and Granny Smith, who were cleaning apples. “Looks like Twilight couldn’t get through ta big sis, Granny,” said Apple Bloom.

“That mare’s as stubborn as a mule,” Granny Smith commented before addressing a mule walking by. “No offense, Marty.”

“None taken,” noted Marty the mule.

As Marty continued on, Granny Smith continued. “She’s definitely mah granddaughter. Why, ah used ta be just as stubborn as she was. Nearly cost mah son his happiness, too. All ‘cause o’ that dadgum feud.”

“Wait, what was that, Granny?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Never y’all mind, young’n,” Granny Smith said. “Let’s just finish cleanin’ these here apples.”

“Ya got it, Granny,” smiled Apple Bloom, eager to help.

Later that same day, Applejack had joined Fluttershy to help with the bunny census as promised. The bags under her eyes had now gotten so noticeable that they seemed like they could drag down her entire face. But, she still insisted it was nothing and Fluttershy wasn't anywhere near as willing to press on the subject like Twilight was.

“Thank you so much for helping me, Applejack,” Fluttershy said. “I know you and Winona will do a wonderful job helping me with all of these adorable little bunnies.”

An exhausted Applejack just yawned and groaned while trotting along. "Yeah, yeah, yeah. But, uh, remind me again why it is we're doin' this?"

“Oh,” Fluttershy said. “We need to take a census in order to keep track of all of the bunnies that have been born. This way, we can figure out how much food to give them.”

Applejack nodded and then groaned. "Alright, sounds easy enough. Can we get on with it, please? Ah'm still nowhere close to bein' done with all mah applebuckin'. It's weird, though. Ah've never had a problem buckin' trees on mah own before. Don't why ah'm havin' so much trouble this time."

“We can try to be quick,” noted Fluttershy. “But, we also have to be careful. Baby bunnies tend to be much more timid than cattle. We don’t need another veggie-flower shortage.”

At this, Applejack snapped. “Oh, ya had ta bring that up! Ah may not be a critter whisperer like y’all, Fluttershy, but, ah do NOT need no direction fer corrallin’ critters!” Applejack then saw a slightly frightened Fluttershy and realized her mistake. "Sorry, Fluttershy. Didn't mean ta yell at ya just then. Don't know what came over me."

“That’s alright,” Fluttershy said politely. “Now, I think we should start over-”

But, Applejack and Winona were off with a shot trying to corral the baby bunnies. "That's right! Let's go, bunnies. In the center, now! Hop to it," But, the bunnies naturally resented being ordered about so roughly when they were used to Fluttershy's gentle coaxing. This only served to make the farm mare even more impatient and annoyed. "Swell, just swell," She sarcastically commented. "Ah've seen pigs durin’ bathin' time put up less o' a fight," And she whistled. "Put 'em up, Winona!"

“Oh!” Fluttershy squeaked meekly. “Applejack, Winona, please, calm down! You’re wrangling too many at a time and scaring them!”

Applejack refused to listen, her lack of sleep made it impossible for her to think clearly. "We know what we're doin'. Now get along, little bunnies." Unfortunately, doing this caused the bunnies to panic. Eventually, they broke free from their huddle and started running away. Applejack and Winona chased after them, which only served to frighten the bunnies even more. And poor Fluttershy couldn't keep up with the two as the bunnies were driven right into town.

In Ponyville, Spike had managed to get Rainbow free. “There you go, Rainbow.”

“Thanks, Spike.” Rainbow said. “I needed that.”

“No problem,” Spike said. “I hope Twilight managed to get through to Applejack.”

“So do I,” Rainbow agreed. “If Applejack tries helping Fluttershy the way she is now, it’ll be the veggie-flower shortage all over again.”

“Veggie-flower shortage?” Spike asked.

“Right, you’re still new here,” Rainbow remembered. “Well, last time Applejack tried helping Fluttershy with bunnies, she only got like an hour of sleep the night before. Long story short, Sweet Apple Acres had to replant every single flower and vegetable the bunnies ate.”

“Whoa!” Spike gasped. “That does sound like a disaster.”

“You don’t know the half of it,” Rainbow said. Then, she noticed something out of the corner of her eye. “Huh? What’s going on?”

Spike tried to look where Rainbow was looking. “What?” he gasped. “Where?”

Rainbow looked at Spike. “I saw something with my pegasus vision,” she explained. “My eyes can’t pick up on smaller details like Rarity’s, but, they can see pretty far. I’ve trained my eyes and ears to pick up on things on the ground or in the sky to keep me safe when flying.”

“If that’s the case,” Spike asked innocently. “Why do you still crash so much?”

“It’s still a work in progress,” Rainbow admitted.

“So,” Spike said, regaining seriousness. “What do you see?”

“It’s still a bit blurry from here,” Rainbow squinted. “Hop on my back, little guy.”

Spike did so. “Why exactly?”

“Partly because I don’t want an earful from Twilight leaving you alone,” Rainbow admitted. “But, it’s mostly because you need to get out more. You’re not in Canterlot anymore, so, you don’t have to stay inside all day anymore.”

“Gee, thanks,” Spike said with a smile.

“Hold on tight, Spike,” said the brash pegasus.

Spike does so, but, not too tightly as to hurt Rainbow Dash. The pegasus took off and looked again. “What do you see now?” asked the dragon.

“I see…” Rainbow began, before gasping. “STAMPEDE!”

Just like the cow stampede from over a weak ago, the ponies began panicking. “Does everypony always panic when stampedes start?” Spike asked.

“Yeah,” Rainbow Dash said bluntly. “They’re dangerous. And remember when I told you about the veggie-flower shortage?”

“Oh, yeah.” Spike said.

“You’re about to live it,” Rainbow said. “And this time, it looks like it’ll be even bigger.”

“Well, you know what they say,” said Spike, “They breed like… well, rabbits.”

All throughout Ponyville, the rabbits stampeded. They ate all sorts of flowers and vegetables they came across. They even charged their way to a flower shop run by three Earth ponies whose names were Daisy, Lily, and Rose. Lily, a pink mare with an auburn mane and tail, wasn’t able to find shelter in time and fainted. The bunnies bounced around her fainted body.

Later, Twilight was trotting down the road. She gasped as she saw the destruction to the plants in town.

“What happened here?!” Twilight gasped in shock.

“It’s the veggie-flower shortage all over again!” Lily cried as she stirred.

“The what?” Twilight asked, confusion in her voice.

“Rainbow Dash told me about that earlier.” Spike said as Rainbow landed near Twilight. “Basically, their vegetables and flowers got eaten and it took them a long time to regrow them.”

“And it’s even worse this time,” Rainbow said. “But, I have a hunch the same pony that caused it last time is responsible for this.”

“Applejack…” Twilight and Spike said together, rather bluntly.

“Come on, Spike,” Twilight said. “We’re putting a stop to this before it gets worse.”

“I’m with you, Twilight.” Spike said as he climbed onto her back. “If my hunch is right, Applejack’s working herself to the bone at Sweet Apple Acres.”

Sure enough, an exhausted Applejack was at work in the fields once again. She was constantly drifting in and out of sleep, to the point where she ended up tipping a cart full of apples over, and falling asleep right on the spot with her body suspended upside down. Spike and Twilight ran up to her.

“This has gone far enough, Applejack!” Spike called.

“Nothing ta it, Spike,” Applejack said, very sleepily. “Ah know what the both o’ y’all are fixin’ ta say, but, the answer’s still no.”

“Just look at yourself, Applejack!” Spike snapped. “You’re hanging upside down after causing an even worse veggie-flower shortage!”

“Spike’s right,” Twilight said. “You need help.”

Applejack just groaned. "How many times do ah have ta tell ya, Twilight? Ah don't need yer help! Watch, ah'll get this here cart back to how it should be all by mahself," With a series of grunts she managed to eventually right herself, even as Twilight could only put a hoof to her face at how beyond stubborn her friend was being. "There!" The farm mare said at last as she finally had her hooves on solid ground. "See? All by mahself, just like always. And ah ain't in the mood fer a lecture. Ah'm sorry about the bunnies, but, it's their own fault fer not cooperatin'."

“Do you even hear yourself?!” Spike and Twilight shouted in unison.

“I know this is rich coming from me,” Spike continued. “But, the way you’re carrying on is destroying yourself and your reputation!”

The stetson wearing earth pony just snorted and turned her back to the duo, she wasn't willing to listen to this conversation any longer. "Ah'll prove that this here Apple can handle these apples. Ah ain't a liar and ah ain't a quitter," She proceeded to trot over to a nearby tree and started kicking it, quickly losing her patience when the apples didn't drop from the tree like they should. "Come on, apples! Fall off already! What are ya waitin' for?!" She complained as she started kicking the tree over and over again.

“Um, Applejack?” Twilight began. “I think you’re bucking a dead… tree.”

Applejack looked and sure enough, the tree she was kicking didn’t even have leaves. She tried to save face. “Ah knew that.” She then looked from side to side.

“That’s a bold-faced lie and you know it, Applejack,” Spike said. “There’s no way that trying to harvest this many apples alone has anything to do with lying.”

“It has everythin’ ta do with it!” Applejack snapped. “Ah told Big Mac that ah’d do it all by mahself before the month is through! If ah go back on that now, ah’d be lyin’!”

“And you think that’ll matter if you’re so tired, you can barely keep your eyes open?!” Spike snapped back. “Just look at yourself! Your mane looks like a bird’s nest!”

“If mah mane’s tidy,” Applejack said. “It means ah ain’t been working hard!”

Twilight stepped up. “Please, Applejack,” she begged. “You’re clearly in over your head! Just let us help–”

But, Applejack defensively and stubbornly bellowed. "No, no, NO, Twilight! If ah've said it once, ah've said it a thousand times already! Ah don't need help n’ ah don't want help! Now please leave me alone! All this talk is makin' me late ta help Pinkie Pie with bakin'. Don't try ta stop me!" She promptly shoved her friends aside, storming off with steam still billowing out of her nostrils.

“Whoa…” Spike gasped. “And I thought I had fire.”

“I read that Earth ponies were stubborn,” said Twilight. “But, this is just asinine!”

“What do we do now, Twilight?” Spike asked, beginning to lose hope.

“It doesn’t look like there’s much else that can be done,” a voice said. Twilight and Spike looked for the owner and found Caramel hiding in a bush.

“Caramel?” Twilight said in surprise. “What are you doing here?”

“I’ve been helping Big Mac keep an eye on Applejack,” Caramel admitted. “I try to help her out without her knowing it. My memory’s nothing spectacular, but, I care about Applejack too much to not at least put in the effort.”

“That is so sweet, Caramel,” Twilight said with a smile. “As you saw, we’re trying our best to help, too.”

“I’m too scared of Applejack snapping at me to even try helping directly anymore,” Caramel said. “She means everything to me and her snapping at me would just break my heart.”

Twilight and Spike comfort Caramel in a platonic manner. “Applejack’s lucky to have such a caring coltfriend like you, Caramel,” Twilight said.

“I’m glad to have her as my marefriend, too,” Caramel said. “My short term memory loss causes most ponies to drive me away, but, not Applejack. She’s different. Even after all the times my forgetfulness got on her nerves, she still had the patience to put up with me that nopony else has.”

“That sounds like Applejack, alright.” Spike smiled. But, his smile quickly turned to a frown. “Though with her being so tired, she’s not acting like her true self.”

“I know,” Caramel said. “I hate seeing her work herself so hard. Being around her helps me remember things.”

“We’ll figure something out,” Spike said, comforting Caramel. “Even if it seems hopeless, we’re not going to give up on our friend.”

Caramel smiled. “There should be more dragons like you, Spike.”

Spike couldn’t help but smile modestly at Caramel’s remark. “We should probably go check on her.”

“No!” Caramel cried. “If you do that, she’ll think you don’t trust her and think she’s a liar, which’ll make things worse! Things are bad enough as it is! Do you really want Applejack thinking you think she’s a liar?”

Twilight and Spike had to concede. It wasn’t an easy decision, but, they knew he was right. “You’re more patient than we are, Caramel,” Twilight said.

“I’ll take care of the apples Applejack spilled,” said Caramel. “While she’s away, I can do some of her work for her without her knowing.”

“Alright.” Twilight said. “Spike and I are going to head back to the library. Need anything before we go?”

“Just promise me that you’ll be ready to help Applejack whether she likes it or not,” Caramel said. “If worse comes to worse.”

“We promise.” Twilight and Spike said together.

Applejack had fortunately managed to cool down a little by the time she made it to Sugarcube Corner. The Cakes were getting ready to step out and leave Pinkie Pie in charge for the first time.

"Now Pinkie Pie, are you absolutely sure you're up for baking the muffins and running the store this afternoon all by yourself?" Mrs. Cake asked her pink coated charge. Mrs. Cake was a plump earth pony mare with a lovely very light blue coat, brilliant rose eyes, and a pinkish mane and tail styled up to look like frosting on a cupcake. Fittingly, her cutie mark depicted three cupcakes.

“Not just by myself, Mrs. Cake.” Pinkie said with a smile. “I also have Applejack helping me bake the muffins. She’s one of the best bakers outside of the Cake family. Isn’t that right, Applejack?”

But, Applejack was too tired to think clearly and ended up shaking her head.

"Wait, no? You mean you're not the best baker ever?" Mr. Cake asked. He was a lanky earth pony stallion with a light brilliant amber coat, moderate green eyes, and a light brilliant orange mane and tail. His cutie mark was three cut carrot cakes.

“Whu-” Applejack said. “Ah mean, no need ta fret. Ah can bake anythin’ from fritters ta pies in the blink of an eye!”

"You two enjoy yourselves," Pinkie said to the Cakes. "Everything will be a-okay here. I remember everything you've taught me."

“Okay, Pinkie,” smiled Mrs. Cake. “Thank you and Applejack both!”

"Better get started on the muffins right away," Mr. Cake added as he and his wife headed out the door. "Customers are already starting to line up for those free samples."

Once the Cakes had left Applejack began to shake violently from side to side. Pinkie quickly put a stop to it by putting her hooves to either side of Applejack's face. "Hey! Stop with the shakin', it's time to get bakin'. I'll get started on the recipe and you bring me the ingredients when I ask for them. Deal?"

“Sounds simple ‘nough.” Applejack said with a slight nod. But, she was already finding it hard to stay awake and even harder to hear just what was being said to her. She didn't want to say anything though because she knew Pinkie would probably say the same thing Twilight, Spike, and Fluttershy had said to her earlier.

So, Pinkie and Applejack were in the kitchen of Sugarcube Corner. They were at a kitchen counter and Pinkie was looking through a cookbook that was open on a stand. “Okay,” said the party mare. “Think you can get some chocolate chips?”

Applejack had nodded off, but, once she heard Pinkie talking, she snapped back to her senses… as best she could. “Uh…” she said. “What was that, Pinkie?”

“Chocolate chips,” Pinkie repeated, though, to Applejack, only the “chips” part registered.

“Chips…” she said quietly to herself. “Oh, ya got it!” She then walked over to a pantry and looked at bags of potato chips. “Tater chips… a little salty and dry… okie dokie.”

She grabs a bag of potato chips and empties the contents into the mixing bowl. “Okay,” said the oblivious party pony. “Now for baking soda.” Applejack only heard “soda.”

“Soda…” she said quietly. “Perfect! That’ll get the tater chips nice n’ wet.”

She then walked over to the opened fridge and pulled out a bottle of cola. She emptied the contents of the bottle into the bowl so the previously dry potato chips were dampened. Pinkie was again too preoccupied with the recipe. “Now, for a cup of flour.”

Again, Applejack misheard. “A cup o’ sour?” she questioned to herself. “Well, lemons are sure sour. One cup o’ sour comin’ up.”

She managed to squeeze out enough lemon juice to fill a one cup sized measuring cup. She then poured the lemon juice into the mixing bowl. “Alright,” Pinkie said again. “Now for wheat germ.”

Applejack reacted with disgust at that. “Wheat worms?” she said with disgust. “Oh! That must be fancy talk fer earthworms!” She stepped outside and dug up some earthworm, which she then added to the bowl. Pinkie saw none of this and got to mixing.

“That’s going to be delicious!” Pinkie said happily.

However, once the batch was done, Pinkie looked at the picture in the cook book and compared it to what was made.

“Hmm,” Pinkie said. “Doesn’t really look like the picture in the book. Oh well, I’m sure it’s just an illustration thing. Still, I better taste test it to make sure.”

Pinkie grabbed a muffin from the tin and took a bite of it. Suddenly, her face went green and she fell to the floor. Applejack woke with a start.

“Huh- wuzzat?” Applejack said in a mutter. Her eyes widened as she saw Pinkie laying on the floor, her face a sickly green. A look at the bitten muffin was enough for the farm mare to comprehend what happened.

“Uh, oh…” said Applejack to herself. “This looks bad. Ah need ta get Pinkie ta the hospital.” She quickly lifted Pinkie onto her back and disposed of the muffins before exiting the kitchen. “Medical emergency!” the farm mare cried.

Applejack made her way to the hospital, with a sick Pinkie Pie on her back. A nurse with a very white coat and pale pink mane and tail saw this. This was Nurse Redheart of the Ponyville General Hospital. “Nurse Redheart!” Applejack cried. “Pinkie’s sick!”

“Oh dear!” Nurse Redheart said with a gasp. “Don’t worry! We’ll take care of her right away.”

Sometime later, Twilight happened to be trotting through town with Spike on her back when the Cakes came rushing up to her. "Twilight, have you heard?!" Mrs. Cake frantically exclaimed as her eyes appeared to have widened and her husband looked about ready to faint.

“H-heard what?!” Twilight gasped. “What’s going on?!”

"It's Pinkie Pie!" Mr. Cake explained in a rapid paced tone of voice. "She's sick, really sick! The kind of sick that sends you to the hospital!"

Twilight and Spike gasped. They followed the Cakes to the hospital. "When did this happen?!" Twilight frantically asked.

“More importantly, how could this have happened?” Spike gasped.

"We just found out for ourselves a minute ago, Applejack rushed her over to Ponyville General Hospital and then took off to get back to applebucking!" Mrs. Cake answered. "My husband and I were just on our way to the hospital ourselves, we haven't told anypony else yet."

Twilight and Spike looked at each other as if to say, “It figures Applejack was involved.” Soon, the four reached the hospital and were greeted by Nurse Redheart.

“Thank goodness you’re here.” Nurse Redheart said in a worried tone.

"Nurse, do you know where Pinkie Pie is?!" Mr. Cake questioned the nurse pony. "My wife and I are the ones who provide her room and board in return for her working with us."

Nurse Redheart replied, “Don't worry, Pinkie Pie is already in recovery. Applejack got her over here in a hurry, and we don't believe Pinkie ate anything truly harmful. She should be okay once she gets it all out of her system. I'll lead you to her."

So, Nurse Redheart led the ponies and Spike to the room where Pinkie was resting. She was noticeably green in the face and sweat beaded her forehead. "Mr. Cake, Mrs. Cake," Pinkie weakly called to the both of them. "There was... a mishap."

“With the baked goods?” Mrs. Cake asked softly.

Pinkie retorted with a shake of her head. "No, not baked goods. Baked bads." Then she turned her head as she groaned, feeling sick to her stomach.

“What was the last thing she ate?” Twilight asked Nurse Redheart.

The nurse rolled out a tray with one of the muffins baked at Sugarcube Corner that day. “One of these,” she said.

Spike looked at the muffin and didn’t see anything wrong with it. “It looks fine to me,” he said. He then sampled it himself by eating it in one bite. “Hmm… tastes like potato chips, cola, lemon juice, and… Huh. That’s a weird texture. Never tasted that before.” The ponies all looked at him in disbelief. “What?”

“We ran some tests on those muffins,” explained Nurse Redheart. “We found worms in them.”

Spike wasn’t sure he heard right. “Uh, come again?”

“I said, ‘we found worms in them,’” Nurse Redheart repeated. “Quite remarkable that you’re not sick from eating that muffin.”

Spike’s face shifted from confusion to abject horror. “You’re telling me that I just ate innocent creatures?”

“Spike,” Twilight comforted. “You didn’t know.”

The little dragon made a dash to a nearby sink, trying to wash his tongue with soap. Nurse Redheart quickly pulled him back before the soap touched his tongue.

“I must advise you not to do that.” Nurse Redheart said. “This soap may be non-toxic, but, it’s still ill-advised to be applied to the tongue.”

“I have to clean my mouth of my crime!” Spike protested.

“What crime?” Twilight asked.

“Killing innocent creatures and betraying the ponies I respect so much,” Spike explained. “I swore I’d never eat meat as long as I lived out of respect for ponies and here I am doing just that.”

“Ponies have plenty of meat-eating animals as pets,” Nurse Redheart explained. “So, you haven’t actually done anything wrong.”

“I still feel like a monster,” Spike said.

Twilight levitated him to face her. “Spike, look at me,” she gently commanded. Spike timidly faces Twilight, tears present in his eyes. “Do you feel guilty about eating those worms?”

“Of course I do.” Spike sniffled. “If somepony had told me before that there were worms in the muffins, I wouldn't have eaten them.”

“That proves you’re not a monster, Spike,” Twilight comforted. “A monster wouldn’t feel guilty and would continue eating those muffins despite knowing what’s in them.”

“R-really?” Spike sniffled.

“Really, really,” Twilight assured the young dragon. “Now, as we’ve seen, Applejack’s sleep deprivation has poisoned Pinkie Pie. This has gone too far. You have two options. Continue to wallow in your guilt or help me confront Applejack so we can finally get it through her head.”

Spike took a deep cleansing breath. “I’m coming with you,” Spike finally said. “And from this moment on, I’m never going to eat those baked bads ever again.”

“Good boy,” Twilight commended. “If you still feel guilty after confronting Applejack, I’ll get the rest of the girls to give you a group hug. Deal?”

“Deal.” Spike smiled. “I should be okay, but, thanks.”

With that, Twilight dashed off with Spike on her back. “That seemed oddly like a mother comforting her son,” commented Mrs. Cake.

“You’ll be like that soon, sugar plum,” Mr. Cake smiled.

“Carrot!” Mrs. Cake blushed. “Not in public!”

“Sorry I ruined your honeymoon,” said the sick Pinkie.

“None of that, Pinkie,” Mrs. Cake soothed. “Your health takes top priority.”

“Yes,” Mr. Cake smiled gently. “Rest well and you’ll be back to it in no time.”

Twilight and Spike rallied Caramel before they once again found Applejack hard at work in the orchards of Sweet Apple Acres and it was truly a miracle that the farm mare hadn't collapsed completely from exhaustion already. It looked like it was a struggle for her just to stay awake.

“Must…” Applejack said, in the midst of kicking. “Finish… buckin'… apples… before…”

“Applejack!” said Caramel, a serious look on his face.

“Not now, Caramel,” panted Applejack. “Ah’m almost done, then, Ah can rest.”

“No, AJ,” Caramel stood firm. “I’ve been quiet for too long now. In the last few days, you over-propelled a pegasus, terrorized bushels of bouncing baby bunnies, which caused a worse veggie-flower shortage than last time, nearly poisoned plenty of ponies, and that’s not even the worst part of it! Spike feels like a monster after he ate one of the muffins you helped Pinkie make!”

This caught Applejack’s attention immediately.

“Wha?” Applejack gasped. “Well, shucks. Ah never meant fer Spike ta feel like a monster.” She then noticed that Spike didn’t seem sick. “Wait, how come Spike ain’t sick?”

“That’s not the point, Applejack,” Twilight said. “This has gone too far. Our mistake was leaving you to your own devices the first time. We don’t care what you say anymore.”

“You. Need. Help.” The trio said in unison.

However, with one final kick, Applejack saw and felt apples fall into her baskets. And she smiled as she realized what these apples meant. "Ha! No, ah don't," Then she boasted. "Look around ya, Twilight. Ah harvested every single apple from every single tree here on Sweet Apple Acres and ah did it without anypony or any dragon’s help at all. So, how d'ya like them apples?"

“So, I guess those trees aren’t on Sweet Apple Acres,” Spike commented while pointing in one direction. In the direction he pointed revealed several apple trees that still had yet to be harvested.

Applejack stared out at the unbucked trees in disbelief. How could she have overlooked them for so long? "What?! But... how did... where did... s-so many... ah mean..." And just like that the last of her strength left her as the farm mare collapsed to the ground.

Some time later, Applejack came to her senses. Twilight, Spike, and Caramel were looking at her with worried looks present on their faces. “Oh, good, you’re okay,” Twilight sighed in relief.

“Now look, Applejack,” started Caramel. “You know that I love you to bits and that I respect you and your family. It's great that you're always there to help anypony in need, so, maybe you could put a little bit of that stubborn pride of yours aside and finally allow your friends to help you. I’m asking you as your coltfriend to please consider. I don’t want you putting yourself through that again."

Applejack knew he was right. Hearing what had happened and seeing all she went through, she lost any will to fight. “Okay. Y’all win. Ah can’t do this on mah own.”

"We are not taking 'no' for an answer," Twilight went on, briefly unaware of her friend's response. "Wait, what? You mean you agree?"

“Yes, ah agree,” Applejack said, exhaustion clearly evident in her voice. “Mah body’s just about ready ta give out. Ah couldn’t buck another tree even if ah wanted ta. So, please, help me~!”

"I sure can," Twilight smiled in satisfaction. "In fact, I think all our friends can, even Pinkie Pie. Once she gets out of the hospital anyway."

“Until she gets out,” Caramel asserted. “You’re taking time off so your body can recover.”

“Gladly.” Applejack panted. “Ah can’t thank y’all enough.”

Caramel helped Applejack get up. “You’re a bit lighter than usual,” he noted. “When’s the last time you ate?” As if to answer his question, Applejack’s stomach let out a deep, loud rumble. “That’s what I thought,” the stallion said. “Twilight, levitate Applejack onto my back.”

Twilight nodded and carefully obliged, making sure Applejack didn’t get hurt further. Caramel then carried the tired and hungry farm mare to the farm house.

A few days later, Pinkie and Applejack were both feeling much better. They and the other ponies in the friend group, Spike, and Caramel were helping to collect the other apples in the orchard. Spike helped out by putting any apples that missed the baskets into them. With so many ponies and Spike pitching in, the work was done in under a day. When the work was just about done, Twilight asked Spike to dictate a letter to Princess Celestia.

“You got it, Twilight,” Spike eagerly agreed. “It’s about time I got to write one of these.”

“Thank you, Spike.” Twilight smiled. Once Spike got a paper and quill ready, Twilight began.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

My friend Applejack is one of the best friends a pony could ever ask for. She’s so willing to help anyone at the drop of the hat. The trouble is whenever she needs help, it’s hard for her to accept it. But, today, Applejack learned that sometimes it’s okay to ask for help, especially if it’s needed. While we realize the importance of offering help to those who need it, we must also give of ourselves and accept what others have to offer. Preferably before things get out of hoof.

Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle.”

“Okay, I got it,” Spike said. He then set the scroll ablaze and the ashes flew off to the Princesses. Caramel witnessed this.

“Did you just send a letter with your fire breath?” he asked in amazement.

“I sure did,” Spike said.

“Come on, y’all,” Applejack smiled. “After all yer hard work, y’all deserve a nice, cold drink o’ apple juice.”

Spike, Caramel, and the mares all gathered at the table with Applejack, Big Mac, Granny Smith, and Apple Bloom.

“Ah’m not normally the mushy type,” Applejack said. “But, ah wanted ta thank y’all for yer hard work. Ah also wanted ta apologize for mah harshness. Ah’m sorry fer also messin’ things up by trying ta help. Ah was a bit stubborn.”

“A bit?” Twilight playfully ribbed.

“Okay,” Applejack chuckled. “A mite stubborn. Ah’m mighty sorry, everypony.” She then faced Spike. “Ah’m especially sorry fer makin’ ya feel like a monster, Spike. That’s the last thing ah’d ever want.” The mares (barring Twilight and Pinkie) grew confused by what she meant.

“What’s this about Spike and feeling like a monster?” Rarity asked in confusion.

Spike looked down in shame. “Remember when Pinkie was in the hospital a few days ago?”

“Oh, yeah,” Rainbow Dash said. “I had heard of that.”

Spike sighed. “It was because she taste-tested a muffin with worms in it,” he admitted. “I ate one whole without knowing there were worms in it.”

“Aww, Spike,” Fluttershy said sympathetically. “Just because you ate something like that doesn’t make you a monster. Though, by the look on your face, you look like you feel bad about it.”

Spike nodded. “I do,” he confessed. “I swore I’d never eat meat as long as I lived out of respect for ponies. When I ate those worms, I felt like I betrayed not only the ponies I respect, but, myself, too.”

“I’m surprised he didn’t get sick eating that muffin,” Pinkie chimed in. “I got sick from the first bite.”

“Well, if ya think about it,” Apple Bloom observed. “It kind o’ makes sense. We ponies ain’t exactly meant ta digest meat. Spike’s got a stronger stomach n’ any pony’s.” She gave Spike’s stomach a few gentle pokes. “Ah mean, if Spike’s stomach can digest some sparklin’ rocks, it’d make short work out o’ a few worms.” A few stern glares from the other ponies and Spike himself clued the little filly in that she wasn’t helping the situation. “Ah’ll simmer down now.”

“Not to worry, darling.” Rarity said. “We love you all the same and we know you aren’t a monster. You’re a gentle and polite little drake and even if you ate a few worms, the fact that you still show guilt and remorse shows that you are indeed not a monster.”

“C’mere, young’n,” Granny Smith beckoned to Spike.

Spike politely walked up to Granny Smith. “Yes?”

“Now, ah’ve seen a fair number o’ critters most ponies see as monsters in mah time,” Granny Smith said before rubbing Spike’s head. “But, y’all ain’t one of ‘em. Ya ain’t got a mean bone in yer li’l body. Ah can spot a bad apple from miles away. Don’t need no Mystic Eyes ta do it, neither.”

Twilight then whispered to her mare friends, whispering her plan to give a group hug to Spike. The mares all agree. “Granny,” asked Applejack. “Could we borrow Spike fer somethin’?”

“A’ course.” Granny Smith said with a smile.

Spike walked over and suddenly found himself being embraced by the six mares. Spike smiled happily and he felt his worries being put to rest. The positive feelings doubled when Twilight placed a hoof on his left face cheek. The other mares grew curious.

“What are you doing?” Rainbow asked.

“Spike likes when his left face cheek is touched,” Twilight explained. “It makes him feel better.”

I’ll have to make a note of that, Rarity thought. Celestia knows he needs it after what he’s endured at such a young age.

The mares continued to hug and comfort Spike.

The end.

Chapter 5: Griffon the Brush-Off (S1:E5)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 5: Griffon the Brush-Off

It had been four days since Applebuck Season was completed. Despite the continued support from his friends, Spike still felt guilty about eating those worms for half of those days. He couldn’t bring himself to eat anything during those two days. This left him very weak and sluggish for the duration. Twilight and the other Elements of Harmony noticed this and, with the unknown help of Princess Luna, finally succeeded in convincing him to eat again. After three hearty meals on the third day, Spike was back to his full strength again. The six ponies promised Spike that even if he ate meat once in a while, they wouldn’t hold it against him.

On this particular day, the fourth day since the completion, Pinkie Pie was looking up at the sky while Twilight was reading a book nearby. Spike was reading along with Twilight as he rested his chin on top of her head. “I can’t wait to hang out with Dashie,” the party mare exclaimed. “This’ll be the first time we’ve been together for longer than a few seconds since we beat Nightmare Moon all those weeks ago.”

“If she’s up to it, of course,” Twilight said. “She might have other plans.”

“And from what we know about her,” Spike quipped. “Most of her plans involve napping. I don’t get how such a fast pegasus can sleep so much.”

Pinkie then gasped happily as she saw Rainbow Dash soaring in the sky.

“There she is,” Pinkie squeaked happily. “I’ll see you and Spike later, Twilight. Bye~” She then dashed off as Twilight sighed in relief. Spike noticed that.

“You know, Twilight,” he said. “I think you’re kind of missing the point of why Princess Celestia had us move here in the first place.”

“I know, Spike,” Twilight explained. “Given that we just met the others a while ago, we don’t fully know of their schedules and what they do. I do have responsibilities, but, I’ll still find the time to spend some time with my friends.”

"That's fair enough," said Spike. Twilight could see that he was a bit upset.

“Tell you what, Spike,” Twilight offered. “We’re running low on scrolls at the library. Why don’t you go to Town Hall and get some more? I’ll read you your favorite stories if you do.”

“Okay, Twilight,” Spike agreed.

Pinkie Pie meanwhile was looking for Rainbow Dash, a difficult task since Rainbow had an advantage in speed and flight. "Hmm… where could she have flown off to this time?"

"She's up there!" Cried an orange pegasus filly. This was the same one that was close to Apple Bloom and the white unicorn filly during the return of Nightmare Moon. She was accompanied by two grown-up mares. One was a rather round earth pony with a pale, light grayish amber coat, a brilliant scarlet mane and tail with light tangelo highlights, moderate scarlet eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting a sailboat beneath the sun wearing a light blue scarf and blue flower earrings. The other mare was a lanky pegasus with a very pale yellow coat, a moderate arctic blue mane and tail with light cyan highlights, moderate opal eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting a spool of blue thread and a sewing needle who was dressed in a light purple sweater.

"Ah, thanks, kiddo," grinned Pinkie. She hopped off.

“I can’t understand it, Holiday,” said the lanky pegasus. “What does little Scootaloo see in that daredevil pegasus?”

“She is an impressive flier, Lofty,” the earth pony, whose name was Holiday, said in a distinctive accent. “Scoots probably has hopes to take off like her.”

“I feel she has too much of her parents in her,” Lofty commented. “Always looking for thrills. With your brother’s blood in her, she might never fly.”

“Don’t discourage her, Lofty,” Holiday reprimanded. “There’s plenty of pegasi with an earth pony parent that learn to fly.”

“Yes,” Lofty said. “That’s true.”

“Seeing as you’re one such pegasus,” Holiday commented. “Perhaps you can teach her the basics. It may take a while, but, she might at least manage to hover.”

“I’ll do what I can,” Lofty smiled.

Meanwhile, Pinkie had managed to catch up to Rainbow. The sky blue pegasus noticed and was less than thrilled. “I don’t have time for this,” she muttered.

So, she zoomed off, leaving Pinkie to bounce happily behind her. “Rainbow Dash,” the pink pony called out.

Rainbow Dash didn’t answer her, though. She just continued to fly and made her way to the side of the Sweet Apple Acres barn. She stopped to catch her breath, peeking to see if Pinkie was in sight. To her relief, she only saw Caramel carrying a sack of seeds.

“Whew,” Rainbow sighed. “Close one.” However, the pegasus spoke too soon, as she turned around and found Pinkie right there.

“Hi,” she squeaked. Rainbow jumped in the air and took off. The shockwaves from her speed blew the sack of seeds off Caramel’s back.

“Oh, come on,” the stallion complained. “I needed those to… uh… to… oh, great, I forgot!”

“Don’t worry, Caramel,” Pinkie said. “I'm sure Applejack will get that sack of seeds for you onto your back in a jiffy.” She hopped off as Applejack walked up to him.

“Lose the seeds again, Caramel?” Applejack questioned flatly.

“Uh-huh,” Caramel said as he hung his head in shame. “I can’t even remember why I needed them in the first place.”

“They’re fer feedin’ the chickens,” Applejack soothed. “Come on, let’s get ya a new sack, sugarcube.”

“Okay…” Caramel said, dejectedly. Seeing her coltfriend’s depression, Applejack gave him a small peck on the cheek. This perked him right up. “Thanks. I needed that.”

Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash was still flying in the sky, trying to get out of Pinkie’s peripheral vision. She made her way to the foliage of the Golden Oak Library. “Pinkie’ll never find me here,” the cocky pegasus stated.

She spoke too soon, as Pinkie Pie was actually right underneath Rainbow. Rainbow had unknowingly sat on Pinkie’s head.

“Hi, again,” Pinkie said with a smile. Rainbow once again responded by flying away.

Pinkie gave chase once more, bouncing slowly yet merrily, trying to catch up to Rainbow Dash. The pegasus in question hid herself on a cloud and once Pinkie continued in the direction she was going, Rainbow snuck off in the opposite direction. She soon made her way to another cloud over a quaint little lake in Ponyville. She landed on its shore, making doubly sure that Pinkie didn’t follow her.

“Whew…” Rainbow panted.

Poor luck seemed to befall her as Pinkie Pie was not only close by, but, was actually IN the lake, complete with scuba mask and snorkel. She removed the mask and snorkel before making her presence known.

“I need a favor, Rainbow Dash.” Pinkie said.

Rainbow jumped and was about to fly off when suddenly, she just stopped. “Oh, what’s the point,” she groaned. “You’ll just find a way to catch up to me again, anyway.”

“I totally promise it’ll be totally fun~” Pinkie said enthusiastically.

Rainbow sighed. “Let’s just get this over with. What’s the little something you need?”

The "little something" was a prank involving the use of a lone storm cloud. Pinkie was currently instructing her pegasus friend and pranking partner on where to position the cloud over town hall. "A little to the left," She instructed and Rainbow obeyed. "Now, a little to the right. Oops, too much. A little more to the left again. Now just a smidge to the right. Good!"

Rainbow forced herself to grin. Just play along and it’ll be over soon, she thought to herself.

Pinkie continued barking out orders related to the positioning of the cloud. "Move it up just a smidge. Now maybe down a tiny bit."

Rainbow’s already small reservoir of patience was completely drained at that point. “PINKIE PIE!” she shouted.

The party mare realized what Rainbow’s shout meant and finished her instructions. “That’ll do. Just wait for my signal.”

Spike was currently inside, collecting blank scrolls. He was unaware that he was being watched and had no idea what was waiting for him once he exited the building. The little dragon was simply whistling a merry little tune to himself without a care in the world as he gathered the scrolls into a bundle. He then walked out of the slightly ajar front door of Town Hall.

“Now!” Pinkie signaled Rainbow, who kicked the cloud. A bolt of lightning escaped from the cloud and the loud boom of thunder soon followed.

Suspecting nothing, the flash and boom startled Spike and caused him to drop every single scroll he'd just gathered seconds earlier. They fell out of his claws and tumbled onto the ground in front of him.

Both ponies laughed themselves silly at the display, especially once they saw that they'd managed to give Spike a bad case of the hiccups. “Oh no,” Spike groaned between hiccups. As his hiccups persisted, emerald green fireballs would escape his mouth. One nearly hit Rainbow. “So sorry!” Spike gasped.

“Watch your aim!” Rainbow said.

“I can’t–HIC–help it,” cried Spike as another fireball hit the ground ten feet away. “Wh–HIC–enever I–HIC–get the hiccups–HIC–I can’t–HIC–control my–HIC–fire breath! I’m–HIC–fireproof, but–HIC–you guys and P–HIC–onyville aren’t!” At that point, an emerald inferno was beginning.

Thinking quickly, Rainbow used the water in the cloud to make rain to not only put out the flames, but, to pour into Spike’s mouth. “You still can’t use your fire breath for a while after drinking water, right?” Rainbow asked, remembering how Spike’s fire was extinguished in the Everfree Forest.

Spike managed to calm down and catch his breath. The water also helped to stop his hiccups. “Yeah. Thanks, Rainbow.” He then picked up the scrolls. “Hopefully, these’ll dry by the time I reach the library.” He then walked off."

Little did Spike know that a couple of scrolls were hit with his fire breath and had flown over to the castle.

"Hmm?" Celestia blinked as some scrolls showed up. "This is an early friendship report. And a big one if it requires so many scrolls.” She used her magic to open the scrolls to find them all blank. "Did Twilight use invisible ink?" She asked in surprise. She held the scrolls near a light source, but, no writing appeared on them.

“That was close,” Pinkie said. “For future reference, I think we should make sure Spike drank water before pulling a prank like that on him again.”

“Never figured you for a prankster, Pinkie,” Rainbow said with a somewhat impressed smirk. “You're pretty good at this prankster stuff. Almost as good as me, almost.”

"Oh, of course," Pinkie replied with a wink. "Fluttershy's already told me about the kinds of crazy pranks you used to pull off as a filly."

“You mean...” Rainbow smirked wider, seeing the storm cloud still close by her. “Like THIS?” She kicked the cloud, causing thunder to sound. Pinkie was startled into hiccuping as well. However, she was a good sport and giggled between hiccups.

“That was grea–HIC–eat!” Pinkie laughed between hiccups.

“You’re not as annoying as I thought,” Rainbow said. This caused Pinkie to look a bit disheartened. "Hey, you know what? Why don't we team up and pull some pranks around town today? I want to see what you're really capable of."

“Rea–HIC–ally?” Pinkie gasped. “That’d be su–HIC–That’d be terrifi–HIC–That’d be great! HIC!”

“Hang on a sec,” Rainbow said as she kicked the cloud one more time, causing thunder to sound again, scaring Pinkie’s hiccups away. “Hiccups gone now?”

“Uh-huh,” Pinkie said with a nod. “Still a bit sore about that ‘annoying’ comment, though.”

Rainbow comforted Pinkie. Despite her rough and tumble attitude, the prismatic-maned pegasus still had a soft side to her. “How about we do that prank team-up as an apology from me?”

“That sounds great,” Pinkie smiled, feeling much better. “Lucky for you, I know just where to go to get the best prank supplies ever!"

Later that day, Pinkie and Rainbow Dash got their supplies from the Joke Shop, a novelty shop in Ponyville. Their first official target was Rarity at Carousel Boutique. Pinkie rang the doorbell before she and Rainbow hid in nearby bushes. Rarity opened the top half of the door and saw a bouquet of flowers. “Ooh,” she said. “I wonder who sent these? Surely, not Spike. He’s nowhere in sight.” Rarity took a sniff of the flowers, only to get pink dust on her nose. “Huh… hauh…” Rarity gasped. “Hah-choo! Hehu-ha-choo! Hawah, hawah, ha-choo!”

The sound of laughter revealed the culprits to the alabaster mare as she saw Pinkie and Rainbow laughing with Rainbow holding a shaker with an illustration of a sneezing pony on it. Rarity looked at the two in annoyance and Rainbow flew off. The shock sent the sneezing powder shaker off of Pinkie’s hoof and it landed on the ground, a small puff entering Pinkie’s nostrils.

“Ah~” Pinkie sneezed. “CHOooooo~!”

The sneeze propelled Pinke after Rainbow Dash. Rarity saw the display and couldn’t help but smile. Knowing she wasn’t hurt from the prank, she could smile and shrug it off. She made sure to wipe the sneezing powder off her nose.

At the Golden Oak Library, Spike arrived with the still damp scrolls he managed to retrieve. “I’m back, Twilight,” he announced.

Twilight saw Spike and the damaged scrolls and a look of concern appeared on her face. “Spike, are you alright?” she asked softly.

“Well, you know how I have trouble controlling my fire breath when I have the hiccups?”

"Yes?"

"Well, Rainbow and Pinkie didn't know about it and I hiccuped due to a prank of theirs."

"You what?!"

"Twilight!" Cried Spike. "Whoa, it's okay. It was a harmless prank and they gave me water afterwards."

“How many scrolls got burnt?”

“Uh, let me check,” Spike said sheepishly. As he counted the scrolls, Rainbow and Pinkie quietly snuck in and switched Twilight’s regular ink with invisible ink. Just as Spike finished counting, the duo snuck out. “Uh-oh. I must’ve burned six of the scrolls.” He then hung his head dejectedly. “I’m not getting those stories, am I?”

Twilight gently patted Spike’s head. “Tell you what, Spike,” she said. “Since you still brought some scrolls over, you technically succeeded in your task, so, you still get the stories.”

“Even though they’re wet?”

“The circumstances were beyond your control,” Twilight said. “Help me dry them off and everything’ll be okay.”

“But, after drinking water,” Spike pointed out. “My fire breath won’t work for hours.”

“Oh,” the unicorn realized. “You’re right. Hmm. I think I remember seeing a recipe for a fire-breathing potion. Would you like to help me make that?”

“Of course, Twilight,” Spike said happily.

Twilight set up a dry sheet of parchment on a nearby lectern and scribbled a few words on it.

“Let’s see,” Twilight said to herself. “In order to make this fire-breathing potion, I’ll need these ingredients.” When Twilight turned her back to consult the book with the recipe, the words she wrote vanished. Spike noticed.

“Uh, Twilight,” he said. “I think we have a problem.”

“What is it, Spike?” Twilight asked.

“Take a look at your notes.”

Twilight turned to face her notes and she was left shocked and confused when she saw that the paper was blank. “How did that happen?!” she asked in alarm. She wrote more letters on it experimentally and saw them vanish after a few seconds.

“Invisible ink,” Spike commented when laughter was heard outside.

Twilight and Spike looked out the window to see Pinkie and Rainbow laughing to themselves. Rainbow was holding an ink well with an image of a liquid drop missing parts of its line. Twilight was visibly annoyed as she opened her window. “You two have some nerve,” she scolded. This made the two mares subside.

“We were just pulling some harmless pranks,” Pinkie said, nervously. She and Rainbow began to sweat from Twilight’s glare.

“Thankfully, I hadn’t started putting the ingredients together yet,” Twilight said sternly. “Now, if it’s not too much trouble, could you two kindly go and annoy somepony else?”

“On it, Twilight,” Rainbow said, handing Twilight a bottle of actual ink. “Here, you’ll need this for… whatever you were doing.”

Twilight eyed them suspiciously. “Is this actual ink?”

Rainbow didn’t appreciate the insinuation. “Of course it is,” she declared. “Don’t you trust us?”

Twilight’s answer was blunt. “I’d be more inclined to trust you if it weren’t for the fact that you both pulled a prank on me and Spike today.”

“She’s got us there,” Pinkie admitted. “But, I Pinkie Promise, that's regular ink.”

Twilight used her magic to levitate the ink bottle inside. She dips her quill in it and scribbles on a nearby piece of paper. Sure enough, the ink didn’t disappear. “Okay, you’re clean,” she said. “But, I stand by my request for you to go annoy somepony else.”

The two quietly hustled away. After they left, however, Twilight and Spike did see the funny side of the situation. Though, Spike quickly noticed something. “Wait, something just occurred to me.”

“What’s that, Spike?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Rainbow and Pinkie managed to sneak in here, replace your regular ink with invisible ink, and sneak back out, all without either of us knowing,” Spike commented. “Normally, you’d be broken out of your focus if one of your ink wells is even touched, never mind emptied and refilled.”

Twilight considered this. “Huh,” she said. “That is strangely impressive.”

Meanwhile, at Sweet Apple Acres, Caramel and Applejack were each pulling a wagon out of the barn. “Ah just can’t understand it,” the farm mare said. “There were bushels o’ apples an hour ago. How’d they–” Applejack was interrupted from her thoughts as she looked ahead.

“What is it, Applejack?” Caramel asked, concerned. He then looked ahead to see apple trees that were harvested four days ago sporting apples in several unusual colors that were hanging from the branches by clothespins. “What in the world?!” The two earth ponies hear familiar laughter.

They turned to see Pinkie and Rainbow close by a nearby rain barrel. They wore artists’ berets on their heads, held paint palettes, and had paintbrushes in their mouths. The two ran off as Applejack started throwing the technicolor fruits in their general direction. “Y’all have any idea how hard it is cleanin’ these here apples?!” the farm mare scolded.

“Yeah,” Pinkie said from a distance. “That’s why we used washable paint!”

One apple Applejack threw landed in the rain barrel and as Pinkie said, the paint instantly came off as the fruit resurfaced. Caramel walked up to the barrel as well.

“Hey,” he said. “It was all colorful when you threw it, but, now it’s red.”

“Sure is, sugarcube,” a soothed Applejack confirmed. At that moment, Caramel rubbed his chin with his front hoof, a little tic he had for when he tried to figure out whether or not he forgot something. “Somethin’ up, Caramel?”

“I’m not sure if I’m remembering right,” Caramel admitted. “But, did Pinkie and Rainbow always have enough skill painting hundreds of apples and putting them in trees in under an hour?”

Applejack considered this. “Well,” she said. “Rainbow Dash is known ta be purty fast n’ so’s Pinkie. Though, come ta think o’ it, ah never saw neither o’ ‘em paint before.”

Caramel sighed in relief. “Oh, good, I was worried I forgot something else for a second.”

“Yer’ alright, hon.” Applejack smiled. “Come on. We better get these apples washed.” She then added, under her breath. “Again.”

Later, Fluttershy was at a river feeding the fish. She was having a lovely time, greeting her fish friends with a sweet smile. Suddenly, a strange turtle reached the riverbank. On the other side of the river, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie were waiting. Pinkie had a squirter in her mouth, while Rainbow Dash observed with a telescope.

“Do you see somepony?” Said Pinkie in a light whisper.

“Fluttershy.”

Hearing this, however, Pinkie Pie spits out the squirter.

“We can’t prank Fluttershy,” Pinkie said. “She’s so sensitive that even our most harmless pranks could upset her.”

“Hey,” Rainbow said. “I pulled plenty of pranks on her when we were fillies. Why should this be any different?”

“How did she react to them?” Pinkie asked.

“The same way she reacts to everything,” Rainbow said. “Crying, panicking, and hiding.”

“That wouldn’t be very fun, would it?” Pinkie asked.

“Hey, I was trying to toughen her up,” Rainbow defended herself.

“Sounds more like knocking her down,” Pinkie commented.

“If you think that’s knocking her down,” Rainbow continued. “You haven’t seen those bullies at our school. They kept calling her insulting names.”

“And how exactly is pranking her and making her cry any better?”

Rainbow Dash was about to answer Pinkie, but, then she considered what she said.

“You know,” Rainbow said. “When you say it like that, that sounds really bad. Okay, let’s not prank her. I’m sure we can find somepony better to prank.” Little did Rainbow know she had a black ink ring around her eye.

“Oh, I think we can find somepony easily,” Pinkie giggled. “In fact, I think I found somepony already.”

“Really,” said Rainbow. “Who?”

Pinkie pointed to the river which showed their reflections. She led Rainbow to it and showed the ink mark around her eye. Rainbow was a good sport and laughed about it. “I didn’t even see you put ink on the lens.”

“I can be speedy when I want to be,” Pinkie winked.

“I can tell,” Rainbow said. Pinkie attempted to hoof bump Rainbow, only for the pegasus to move her hoof each time. The two shared a laugh, forgetting about the squirting turtle and leaving an unsuspecting Fluttershy to poke and prod at it.

“Hmm?” Fluttershy said to herself. “That’s peculiar.”

The next day was the start of a typical day for Pinkie as she went to visit Rainbow. Pinkie decided to gussy herself up, wearing a pair of funny glasses, a red clown nose, a fake mustache, and she was blowing a party blower.

But, instead of being greeted by Rainbow, Pinkie was surprised and even a little bit shocked to see an unfamiliar looking bird-like creature staring down at her from above. The creature had light, brilliant amber eyes that could barely be made out with how much her pupils seemed to be gazing at Pinkie right now. She had gold talons and white feathers on her face, though around her eyes the feathers took on a gray hue.

“Whoa~!” Exclaimed Pinkie. “You’re not Rainbow Dash.”

“No kidding, genius,” the creature responded sarcastically while her voice shifted from high and shriek-like to low and roaring and back again. “You never seen a griffon before?”

“Honestly, no,” Pinkie said honestly.

“That checks out,” the creature said. “Now, why don’t you make like a fly and buzz off?”

“Gilda?” Rainbow Dash’s voice called from her house. “Who’s out there?”

“Just some pink lameo, Dash,” the griffon responded.

“Oh hey, that’s Pinkie,” Rainbow said excitedly, flying into view. “I was going to introduce her to you, but, sounds like she came to visit early.”

“You know this griffon, Dashie?” Pinkie asked.

“You got a problem with that, bozo?” Gilda asked aggressively.

“Whoa, easy there, G,” Rainbow said. “Pinkie, this is Gilda. She’s a friend of mine from the Junior Speedsters Flight Camp.”

“Why does her voice keep changing pitch like that?” Pinkie asked.

“It’s called speaking Griffonese, pony,” Gilda said. “Not that I’d expect you to know it.”

“Ease up, G,” Rainbow said. “Sorry about that, Pinkie. Gilda’s kind of a tough nut to crack if you catch my drift.”

“I noticed,” Pinkie chuckled sheepishly. “But, as long as she’s in town, maybe I can join you and show her around.”

“There’s a bit of a catch there,” Gilda said. “Dash here said she’d give me a flying session when I showed up in town.”

“Oh, okay,” Pinkie said, a twinge of sadness in her voice. “Maybe we can catch up later, Dashie?”

Rainbow could see the sadness. “You go on ahead, G. I’ll catch up in a bit.”

“Whatever you say, Dash,” Gilda smirked. “But, don’t take too long, ‘kay?”

“You should know me better than that,” Rainbow playfully jabbed. Once Gilda was out of earshot, the pegasus addressed Pinkie. "Listen, Pinkie, Gilda came all the way to Ponyville to see me. I promise, I'll try to find time later on for us to get in some pranks. But, for now, I want to catch up with Gilda. You don't mind, do you? After all, she just got here."

Pinkie listened to her friend and she gave an understanding smile.

“Okay, Dashie,” Pinkie said. “Hope you and Gilda have fun together.”

Satisfied with the answer, Rainbow Dash took off. "Great! See you later, then!"

The pink party pony watched her pegasus friend disappear into the skies, forcing back some tears as she called out (despite knowing Rainbow couldn't hear her). "I'll catch up with you," An unhappy sigh left her lips as she then finished. "Later." And her posture slouched ever so slightly as her party favor made a rather slow and sad sounding noise.

A short time later, Rainbow Dash and Gilda were flying through the skies. They were laughing like good friends hanging out together. They soon came to rest on a big cumulus cloud close by. “Good to know living in a town full of earth ponies didn’t drag you down, Dash.”

“Heh,” smirked Rainbow Dash. “You remember that it takes a lot to keep me down. Besides, there’s plenty of pegasi and unicorns here, too.”

“Hm,” Gilda smirked. “You still have some tough stuff in you, Dash. Not as much as me, but, you’re getting there.”

“You better believe it,” Rainbow said. “So, what’s new in Griffonstone?”

“Oh, same old, same old,” Gilda said. “It’s been a total snoozefest over there.”

“You know, I don’t really think you told me much about Griffonstone,” Rainbow commented. “What’s up with that?”

Before either flyer had a chance to say anything, however, they were surprised to be greeted by the familiar face of Pinkie Pie. "Hey there, you two."

“Huh,” the two asked in startled confusion. Both were surprised by what they were seeing. Pinkie Pie had somehow managed to not only catch up to them unnoticed, but, was now bouncing up to their position via a trampoline.

Pinkie, for her part, was just explaining herself while bouncing and repeatedly poking her head up through the clouds for a moment at best each time. "It's later. And I caught up. Hope you don't mind."

Rainbow Dash couldn’t help but see the humor in the situation.

“Pinkie Pie,” she said. “You are so random.”

But, Gilda was nowhere near as pleased to see Pinkie as Rainbow was. If either had been watching or paying attention they might have seen the griffon cast a harsh and judging glare at the earth pony. Yet instead of saying anything about it she just cleared her throat, drawing attention to herself. "So Dash, think you got enough gas left to beat me to that cloud over there?" She gestured a claw to her aforementioned target.

Rainbow looked at the cloud Gilda was pointing at and got a look of determination.

“You know it,” Rainbow smiled.

The griffon smiled. "Good," And she quickly barked out. "One, two, three, go." And both flyers took off as fast as they could, leaving Pinkie far behind.

“Um…” Pinkie said, calling out. “Oh-okay, I guess I’ll have to catch you later again!”

The race ended almost as quickly as it had begun, both seeming to touch the cloud at the same time. But, that didn't stop Rainbow Dash from claiming victory. "Ha, I win!"

“No way,” Gilda said. “I win!”

“No way,” Rainbow protested.

“Rainbow Dash won,” called out a familiar squeaky voice.

The two fliers turned to see Pinkie Pie supported by a bunch of balloons. Rainbow, taking advantage of the confirmation of her victory, couldn't resist a gloat. "Ha! I told you so, Gilda! Good thing Pinkie Pie's here to keep you honest, G."

Gilda had a moment where she was visibly flustered, but, she snapped out of it quickly and she said, “Oh yeah? Well, how about a real challenge? Last one to that cloud is a rotten dragon egg! Go!”

Pinkie watched as Rainbow took off as fast as possible, but, Gilda didn't do the same. The griffon instead flew over to Pinkie and glared at the pink party pony. "Stick to the ground where you belong." And using the sharp claws on her talons she popped every single one of Pinkie's balloons, causing the party pony to rapidly lose altitude.

“Whoa~!” Pinkie shouted as she fell, landing in a lake. She was sopping wet, but, nonetheless unharmed. “Looks like I’ll have to use my pedal-copter.”

Gilda then flew off and caught up with Rainbow Dash. Suspecting nothing, Rainbow playfully taunted, "What took you so long, slowpoke?"

“Oh, just had something to take care of,” Gilda said. “You know how it is, getting caught up in something.”

Just then, however, Pinkie happened to show up in a strange looking, pedal-powered contraption. It was pink and white in color and spun blades around in a circular motion to achieve flight. "You girls almost got away from me back there," She greeted. "I never expected to have to use this, but, it's better than a trampoline or balloons. I call it the pedal-copter."

“You again?” Gilda asked under her breath, clearly vexed. Thinking quickly, she thought up a way to get Rainbow out of earshot. “Say, Dash? Any new moves in your ‘trick-tionary’ or did you become a literal one-trick pony?”

“One trick pony,” Rainbow Dash asked in a mock-appalled tone. “Hah! Just watch me!”

Once the pegasus was out of sight, Gilda turned her attention to Pinkie.

“Listen here, you pink nightmare,” Gilda snapped. “Rainbow Dash is my friend and as long as I’m around, I get to hang out with her. So, again, ‘Stinkie Pie,’ make like a bee and buzz off!” She then grabbed the pedal-copter’s top rotors, causing the rest of the vehicle to spin out of control.

“Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa~!” Pinkie exclaimed as she spun out of control before crashing into the ground.

Rainbow soon returned, unaware of what happened.

“Heh,” she huffed. “Did that prove you wrong?”

Gilda, pretending she saw the stunt, lied. “You sure showed me.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow sniffed. She then looked around. “Hey, where’s Pinkie and her crazy pedal-copter thingy?”

“Oh, you know how it is with ground-bound creatures,” Gilda lied. “They don’t have the lungs to get up here without getting loopy.”

“Oh, right,” Rainbow said, believing Gilda’s lies.

Back on the ground, Pinkie took a deep breath before looking at the remains of her creation.

“Aww~” she said sadly. “Poor pedal-copter. And poor Rainbow Dash for hanging out with a meanie like Gilda.” What is that griffon’s problem, anyway?! She thought to herself. But, that would have to wait for a while. Right now, the pink party pony needed to gather up the broken parts of her flying machine so that she could hopefully rebuild it someday.

She soon returned to Sugarcube Corner in a foul mood. Mr. and Mrs. Cake saw this and came to comfort the young pink mare.

“Goodness, Pinkie,” Mr. Cake said. “Are you alright?”

“If you call having a machine you worked on for weeks trashed in seconds, being called ‘Stinkie Pie,’ and basically being told to take a hike just for trying to hang out with Rainbow Dash okay, then, yes,” said the uncharacteristically bitter Pinkie. “I’m just peachy!”

“Ohh~” Mrs. Cake said sadly. “Don’t worry, Pinkie. We’re here for you.”

“Why don’t you tell us the full story, Pinkie,” Mr. Cake suggested.

“I’ll make my comfort cocoa, too,” Mrs. Cake smiled.

Pinkie began venting to the Cakes while storing away the remains of her invention, relieved that she had an audience. "And then she had the nerve to tell me to 'Get Lost' even though I've been trying to find her and Rainbow Dash," she grumbled while pacing back and forth. "She even told me to stay away and called me 'Stinkie Pie'."

Mr. Cake was more than a little concerned by the remarks, but, did his best not to let it show. "Oh, now I'm sure she didn't really mean it, Pinkie," he attempted to sooth the pink party pony's hurt feelings while placing a hoof to her back. "She probably came across as more forceful than she intended."

Pinkie Pie would hear nothing of such a suggestion. "I know what I heard and I know when I've been insulted! If she doesn't like me, she can just say it to my face! She doesn't have to break my stuff! I've never met a griffon as mean as Gilda! In fact, I've never even met a griffon, period. But, I'm sure if I did it would be nowhere near as nasty as Gilda is. If you still think she didn’t mean it, I’m pretty sure I have a big bruise on my rump that says otherwise!" She was about to point her rear end at Mr. Cake, only for the lanky baker to gently push it down.

“That’s okay, Pinkie,” he said. “I don’t need the visual.” At that moment, Mrs. Cake entered with a mug of cocoa. “Pinkie, don't take this the wrong way, but, have you considered that maybe you're... well... jealous of Gilda?"

“Jealous?!” Pinkie asked in shock.

Mr. Cake forced back a gulp. "Well, you said it yourself, you wanted to spend time with Rainbow Dash today. And you were kind of unhappy when she went to hang out with Gilda instead." Mrs. Cake put down the mug before face-hoofing in a way that basically could be translated to, “My husband is an idiot.”

“Yeah, but-” Pinkie stammered. “I wanted to hang out with Gilda, too, and I wanted to give her a chance, but, she wouldn’t let me!”

Mr. Cake only suggested in response. "Perhaps because she wanted to spend time with Rainbow Dash without you also being there," And then he added. "Maybe you should apologize to Gilda, much as I'm sure she'll apologize for breaking your flying machine."

“Me, apologize,” Pinkie gasped. “But, Gilda was- she was just- are you seri- AHHH!”

She stormed out of Sugarcube Corner, leaving Mrs. Cake looking upset. She smacked her husband in the back of the head.

“Ow!” Mr. Cake exclaimed. “What was that for?!”

“Pinkie came to us asking for help and you brushed off her feelings, Carrot,” Mrs. Cake chastised before sarcastically quipping. “Mentor of the year material, right there!”

Mr. Cake said nothing, he just rubbed the back of his head. Later, Pinkie was walking through Ponyville trying to cool her head. The clear weather brightened her mood a bit.

“Maybe I have been jealous,” Pinkie said to herself. “Maybe I was just too jealous to take Gilda’s attitude with good grace. Maybe she just slept funny and it put her in a bad mood today.” Pinkie looked around and saw no other ponies. “I’ve been talking to myself a lot today. Maybe a milkshake will fix that.”

So, Pinkie treated herself to a milkshake. She then looked and saw Rainbow and Gilda flying into the quaint village.

Rainbow shared a laugh with Gilda while stretching her wings. "It's been fun, Gilda. Glad you're liking Ponyville."

“Yeah,” Gilda smirked. “It’s okay if you’re into that kind of thing.”

Rainbow Dash then let out a sigh. "Yeah? Well, guess you'll be seeing more of it. I've got some weather jobs I need to take care of around here. Shouldn't take me too long though," And she was quick to suggest. "Just hang out and I'll come find you as soon as I'm done, okay?"

Gilda nodded eagerly. “Works for me. I’m fixing to chow down, because I’m starving.”

“No problem,” Rainbow said. “Full disclosure, though, don’t expect a lot of meat products here. Later!” And she took off towards the clouds.

Pinkie watched as she saw Gilda making her way past several fruit stands, her tail sticking out and just so happened to get near some apples on one of the stands. An unsuspecting Granny Smith was sniffing the apples when she saw Gilda’s tail and freaked out.

“Ahh!” Granny Smith shouted. “A rattler! A rattler! Run for your lives!” She slowly ran off.

Pinkie had seen the whole thing unfold and was anything but pleased, especially since Gilda hadn't bothered to pop out and explain herself. Granny Smith didn't know that wasn't a snake. That was uncalled for! She thought to herself, before realizing what she was thinking and tried to correct herself. Now, now, Pinkie. It was just an accident. Nopony got hurt. I'm sure Gilda didn't mean to cause any harm.

Gilda made her way along, using her tail to snag at an apple in the cart when no pony was looking and hid it beneath her wing where it couldn’t be seen.

Pinkie Pie pounded the table in disbelief! So Gilda's a thief?! I knew there was something off about her! She likes to pick on innocent ponies for fun and she likes to steal apples! However, she again corrected herself upon realizing she was making a rash assumption (despite the rather troubling displays she was seeing). There you go again, Pinkie. Just wait, Gilda might pay for it eventually. Besides, it's only one apple. Gilda maybe doesn't know you're supposed to pay for your food before you eat it.

Just then, Fluttershy came into town. She was walking backwards and she was leading a flock of ducks through. Because she was walking backwards to keep an eye on the ducks, she didn't see Gilda until she bumped right into the griffon.

The impact wasn’t severe, but, it was enough to make Gilda drop the apple on the ground. And rather than apologizing, the griffon immediately snapped. “Hey, I was walking here! Watch where you’re going, stupid!”

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” Fluttershy said in a haste. “I didn’t mean to bump into you, I was just-”

"Quit your stuttering!" Gilda snapped as she narrowed her eyes at Fluttershy. "You cost me my free lunch! You want to make something of it?!”

“Um, no,” Fluttershy whimpered, becoming more and more frightened. “I’m sorry, I was just-”

Gilda didn't bother to wait for a full reply. She instead let out a fierce roar directly in Fluttershy's face, scaring the poor pegasus mare half to death and reducing her to tears. And the young griffon didn't even bother to say she was sorry. "A waste of my time." She scoffed and flew off.

Unbeknownst to Gilda, though, Pinkie Pie had seen everything. And the pink party pony knew there was no longer a defense for Gilda's actions. "So, you're a meanie pants and a thief and now a bully, too, Gilda?" She snorted, steam escaping her nostrils. "Well no one and I mean no one treats Fluttershy like that and gets away with it! Not on my watch and I don't even have a watch!" And with that, the gears in her mind started to turn. "This calls for extreme measures: Pinkie Pie Style!"

The next day, Sugarcube Corner was decorated to host a party. Pinkie decided to throw a party for Gilda and invited her friends and others to join in the festivities. Fluttershy was uncertain about the idea, however.

“About this party, Pinkie,” the demure pegasus said. “Are you sure it’s a good idea?”

“Relax, Fluttershy.” Pinkie smiled. “I know what I’m doing. Don’t worry your pretty little head about it. Your Auntie Pinkie Pie’s got it all taken care of.”

Fluttershy snorted as she watched Pinkie trot away. Although not intentional, the remark had felt patronizing. "I'm a year older than you, you know," she complained with narrowed eyes, but, alas Pinkie was too far away to be heard.

Just then, Gilda finally arrived and she suspected nothing.

“Gilda~” Pinkie said warmly. “Glad you could make it! I know we got off on the wrong hoof… or claw or paw… yesterday, but, I hope it’s not too late for us to start over. I figured I could throw you one of my signature Pinkie Pie Parties since you’re new in town.”

Gilda seemed to nod in reply. "A party for me? You shouldn't have. Guess maybe you're not a total loser after all."

Pinkie held out one of her front hooves for Gilda to shake. She went to grab it, but, she was suddenly shocked both literally and figuratively. Pinkie had a joy buzzer on her front hoof. There were a couple of muffled laughs before the moment passed.

Rainbow Dash even remarked while slapping a hoof across one of her legs. "Ha! Good one, Pinkie! The old joy buzzer greeting! That's a classic."

Gilda muttered under her breath. “Yeah, good one, Pinkie… you’re hilarious…” That last word was spoken through gritted teeth.

Rainbow, suspecting nothing, just remarked. "Come on, G, it's just a prank. No need to get all bent out of shape. Don't tell me you've lost your sense of humor."

Gilda shook her head. “Oh, not at all. I just wasn't expecting to get pranked at my own party is all.”

Rainbow only replied to her friend. "Lighten up. Pinkie's just trying to make you laugh. That's what she does best," And she was quick to offer. "Come on, I'll introduce you to the rest of my friends. One of them’s a dragon."

At that last comment, Gilda reeled back. “There’s a freakin’ dragon here?! You’ve got to be pulling my leg!”

“I’m not kidding,” Rainbow said. “He came to town along with one of my friends, Twilight Sparkle.”

Gilda looked around and saw nothing ablaze. “If there’s a dragon here, why isn’t everything burning?”

“Because Spike has better control than that,” Rainbow said. “He may be the youngest of us, but, he knows how to keep a cool head.”

Gilda raised an eyebrow. “When you say ‘youngest…’”

“He’s still a baby dragon,” Rainbow explained. “Though, he’s about 10 in pony years.”

“I see,” Gilda replied. “How about you go ahead? I’ll catch up in a bit.”

Rainbow went on ahead. When she was out of earshot, Gilda glared at Pinkie. It was clear she wasn’t over the whole buzzer trick. “I know what you’re up to.”

“Great,” Pinkie said sweetly. “I should hope so, anyway. This wasn’t meant to be a surprise party.”

Gilda had to resist the urge to groan. "No no no. What I mean is, I've got my eye on you."

Pinkie responded by getting uncomfortably close to Gilda’s face. “And I’VE got my eye on YOU!” She then stepped back. “Have to make sure the guest of honor has the most fun, after all.” She then addressed the other partygoers. "Everyone, I'd like you all to meet Gilda, a long-time and very dear friend of Rainbow Dash. Let's all honor her and welcome her to Ponyville."

The ponies and Spike applaud for Gilda, who smiles a little bit. She momentarily forgot about her suspicions of Pinkie and noticed Spike. Whoa. Dash wasn’t kidding when she said he was a baby dragon, she thought. The little guy’s a pipsqueak. I won’t have any problems getting him out of the way.

Pinkie was then quick to offer a treat to the honored guest. "Help yourself, Gilda. Snacks and refreshments are on the house. Or, I guess they're on the bakery, although, this is kind of my house, too."

“You live here?” Gilda asked.

The pink party pony nodded. "Yup. For yours truly, there is no better place to be," Then, she led Gilda over to a nearby table. "Go right ahead, take whatever you want. Just watch out for some hidden 'surprises.'"

Gilda then looked at the treats on the counter. “Hmm,” Gilda smirked. “Vanilla-lemon drops. Don’t mind if I do.” She scarfed the drops as quick as a flash. But, then a few seconds later, she began to spew fire out of her mouth as Pinkie held up a marshmallow on a stick to toast.

“G,” called out Rainbow. “The punch!”

Gilda rushed over to the punch bowl as fast as she could and grabbed the first glass she could see. But, when she tried to fill up the glass with punch, she found that most of it was spilling it out through some holes at the bottom. So, she had to resort to dunking her entire face into the punch bowl just to get a drink and finally cool off her burning tongue. When she pulled her head out, steam was escaping her beak.

Spike and several ponies laughed at the display as Pinkie Pie commented. "Well, what do you know? Pepper in the vanilla lemon drops and the punch served in a dribble glass! What are the odds?"

Gilda groaned in annoyance. "So funny, I forgot to laugh," she muttered. It was fast becoming difficult for her to keep her temper under control. And it didn't help that she was so sure it was Pinkie Pie who was pulling off all these pranks as an act of revenge.

Unfortunately for Gilda, it seemed like everywhere she turned she was the victim of another prank that she was sure was meant for her. Whether it was canned fake snakes in the presents or trick candles on a cake. Yet, whenever she tried to interrogate Pinkie, the party pony continued to perform her routine of ignorance and innocence. It seemed like nothing would make her admit to what Gilda thought for sure was obvious. And all the while Gilda's temper continued to simmer despite her best efforts to keep it in check.

At last, it was time for a game of “Pin the Tail on the Pony.” It was Gilda’s turn and she was given a blindfold while holding a purple prop tail in her mouth. "What do you think you're doing?!" she complained as she felt herself being spun around by Pinkie Pie.

“You never played 'Pin the Tail on the Pony’ before?” Pinkie asked. “We’re spinning you around and around and you can pin the tail on the pony. It’s gameplay that makes you a little dizzy. Now just walk straight ahead and pin the tail.”

Gilda had other ideas. “How stupid do you think I am?” she said. “This is another prank!”

So, she began to walk blindly in the opposite direction from the poster. "No, Gilda!" Pinkie protested as she saw the blindfolded griffon walking the wrong way. "Come back! The poster is this-"

But, the warning had come a little too late. Gilda stumbled into the kitchen, crashed into various pots and pans, and generally caused a ruckus. She soon stumbled out, removed the blindfold and saw the cute purple tail draped over her beak. “Uh, you kind of pinned it on the wrong end,” Spike commented innocently.

That was the straw that broke the camel’s back. Unable to hold her frustration anymore, Gilda used the back of her claw to slap Spike across the face with everypony watching as Spike was sent back a few feet. Twilight and her friends all gasped in shock at what they saw.

“Spike!” Twilight and her friends gasped in horror. Twilight, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Applejack went to comfort Spike while Gilda went on her tirade.

"Oh, that's it! I have had it with this party and these pranks!" Gilda complained while flapping her wings. "This is how you ponies get your kicks, isn't it?! Messing around with me at a party. I'm starting to wish I never came here if all I had in store for me was humiliation!"

"Gilda, calm down!" Rainbow pleaded to her friend. "You're making a scene!"

Gilda was in such a state of mind that she refused to listen. “Shut up, Dash! You have no idea what this party involved, but, how could you?!” She soon locked eyes with the target of her scorn, Pinkie Pie. "This was all a set up. Admit it, Pinkie Pie! You did all of this on purpose! You were just trying to make me angry, weren't you? Well guess what, dweeb?! You succeeded!"

Pinkie professed her innocence. “Why would I do that? I was just trying to give you a warm welcome to Ponyville, hoping to improve your attitude. I never meant for this to happen. I just wanted us to be friends.”

Gilda snorted. "Well too bad, I don't recall asking for your friendship! And you know what else?! Rainbow Dash doesn't need friends like you! I told you before, Pinkie! I'm the only friend Dash needs!" She proceeded to fly over to the brash speedster. "Come on, Dash. Let's bail on these pathetic losers. We're too good for them. Especially that lameass dragon!"

At that point, Rainbow had had enough of Gilda disrespecting her friends. “I’m not going anywhere,” Rainbow protested. “For three reasons.” She began using the feathers on her wings as hands to finger count the reasons. “One, you made a scene. Two, you blamed Pinkie for every prank after the joy buzzer. I could’ve let the first two slide if it weren’t for the fact that a 17-year-old like you hit a creature as young as Spike!”

“To be honest, it didn’t really hurt that much thanks to my dragon scales,” Spike said, hoping to deescalate the situation.

Unfortunately, Rainbow ignored his comment and continued her rant. “The only prank Pinkie had anything to do with was the joy buzzer. I set up the other pranks. They weren’t meant for you specifically. It was just dumb luck that you set them off.”

“W-what?!” Gilda exclaimed in shock. “N-no, it can’t be! It was Pinkie Pie! She set all this up to make me look bad!”

Pinkie Pie shook her head in reply. "You've got it all wrong, Gilda. I set this party up because I wanted to help you. I thought if you made some friends it would you help turn that big old frown of yours upside down." She briefly flipped her head upside down to demonstrate.

Rainbow Dash, now more serious, confronted Gilda. “And you certainly didn’t need any help looking bad!” She trotted forward, frowning at the griffon. "I don't know what's gotten into you, Gilda. You weren't always like this. You used to be a lot less mean. This isn't how I thought my old friend would treat my new friends. But, it seems like being cool is all you ever care about these days."

For a moment, Gilda couldn’t speak. She thought she knew what to say, but, Rainbow Dash’s response made her silent. Finally, she snapped and said, “Well, Dash! If that’s how you’re going to play, then, fine! It’s me or them!”

"Hey now!" The brash speedster protested. "I don't want to have to choose, Gilda. I want to be your friend, but. not if you're going to use my friendship as an excuse to be cruel to others. If you still want to be friends, then you need to fix that attitude problem of yours."

Gilda shook her head and growled. “Forget it, Dash! You can keep your pony friends and your wimpy dragon friend for all I care! Don’t ever talk to me again! I’m out of here for good!” She turned around, unfolding her wings, letting out a screech of frustration. She then flew out of Sugarcube Corner in the direction of Griffonstone.

All Rainbow could say in response was. "Not cool," But, as soon as Gilda had left she apologized. "I'm really sorry about that, everypony. Especially you, Spike. I swear, Gilda wasn't like this all the time when we were in flight school. I don't know what could've caused her to change."

“Hey, you couldn’t help that,” Pinkie said. “Even I didn’t think Gilda was going to be that way. It’s really too bad. She could have had so many wonderful friends. I don’t mind when my friends have other friends, so long as they’re willing to share those friendships with me. After all, isn’t that what friendship is about?”

Rainbow Dash nodded. "I guess it does, Pinkie." Then, she looked across to Twilight. "What do you think, Twilight? Think that'll make a good friendship lesson for Princess Celestia?"

Twilight nodded back. “It most definitely should.”

Mr. Cake cleared his throat. “Pinkie,” he said. “I wanted to apologize. I’m the one who misjudged you.”

“It’s okay, Mr. Cake.” Pinkie said comfortingly. “You didn’t see in action what Gilda was really like before. But, now you have. Thank you for apologizing, too.”

“Some mentor I turned out to be,” Mr. Cake lamented.

“Hey,” Pinkie said. “We all have our tough days. The only way to learn from a mistake is to make a mistake.” And she gave the orange-maned earth pony a comforting hug. Suddenly, Spike tapped Pinkie’s shoulder.

“Pinkie,” the little dragon asked. “Is it okay if I write the report during the party?”

“If you want to, Spike,” Pinkie said. “Don’t take too long, though. We still have a whole lot of party to finish!”

Twilight made a thoughtful expression. “Hey, Rainbow,” she asked. “Do you have any spare invisible ink?”

“Huh?” Rainbow asked in surprise. “Well, yeah, I do. Why do you ask?”

“Well, remember when Spike mentioned Princess Celestia having a sense of humor?”

“I… think so.” Rainbow suddenly pieced together what Twilight was planning. “Please tell me you’re not planning what I think you’re planning!”

“I would,” Twilight began. “But, if I did say that, I would be lying.” She then gave a rather devious smirk. “Besides, I remember a certain party pony telling me that you would play pranks on a sensitive pony like Fluttershy and we can see how that turned out.”

“Yeah…” Rainbow said with an embarrassed blush. “You got me there.”

“Can I please start writing now?” Spike asked, his patience wearing thin.

“Yes, Spike,” Twilight said. “I have the idea for the draft ready.”

“Ready and waiting!” Spike said. Twilight spoke and Spike wrote.

“Dearest Princess Celestia,

Today I learned that it can be hard to accept whenever somepony you like wants to spend time with somepony else, especially when it's somepony who's not so nice.

Although it's impossible to control who your friends hang out with all the time, it is possible to control your own behavior. And that's what's most important.

So, as long as you continue to be a good friend, the difference between a false friend and one who's true will surely come to light.

Your faithful student,

Twilight Sparkle.”

“Twi…light,” Spike enunciated. “Spar…kle. Got it.”

“Thank you, Spike,” Twilight smiled. “Though, I have something to send along with the letter.” Rainbow brought in the spare bottle and Twilight placed a false label on it. She then wrapped the paper around the bottle. “Alright, now it’s ready to be sent.”

Spike used his fire breath to send the letter and its attachment away.

Meanwhile, Princess Celestia waited for Twilight’s report as Princess Luna entered with a small, blue and white plush wolf with brown hair on her back.

“Greetings, sister,” Luna smiled. “What hath Twilight Sparkle reported this time?”

“I’m still waiting on her report,” Celestia said softly. At the moment, the report comes in. “Ah, there it is.”

“We still wonder if we shall ever adjust to that,” Luna said.

“Wait, is that the royal we or were you referring to yourself and Canis?” Celestia asked.

“The latter,” Luna clarified as the plush moved on its own.

So, Princess Celestia opened the scroll from Twilight and saw the spare bottle of ink. “Hmm,” she said. “How odd.”

“What is it, sister?” asked Luna. “‘Tis a bottle of ink.”

Princess Celestia shook her head. “Oh, never mind.” She began reading the report. Luna listened closely and the plush positioned itself in a way that made it seem as if it was listening as well. “Quite a lovely report.”

“Indeed, it is remarkable,” Princess Luna smiled. “What say you, Canis?”

The plush responded with a young masculine voice. “I propose you draft a response, Aunt Celestia.”

“Of course, Canis,” Princess Celestia smiled. She levitated a quill and dipped it in the inkwell Twilight sent. “‘Dear Twilight Sparkle, my most faithful student…’” She began, but, once she lifted her quill, her writing disappeared.

“What flaxen homespun have we swaggering here?!” Princess Luna cried.

Princess Celestia got a closer look at the inkwell and the false label that was stuck upon it slipped off, revealing the true label.

“Oh!” Celestia exclaimed lightly. “Wrong ink~” She replaced the inkwell with one that had actual ink inside of it. She began to rewrite her letter, chuckling to herself about the joke.

Princess Luna was stunned. “How can thou be so calm?! Thou hath been made a mockery of!”

“Please calm down, mother,” the plush said. “It was a harmless joke.”

“It was indeed,” Princess Celestia said calmly. “This proves that Twilight is loosening up a bit and not as serious as she was before.”

“She’s not immortal like you and Aunt Celestia,” the plush reasoned. “For her, life is too short to be serious all the time.”

“Ah,” Princess Luna said, understanding the situation. “We doth see.”

“You could stand to loosen up yourself, Luna,” Celestia said. “Spend some time with Canis. He’s been lonely this past millennia.”

Princess Luna smiled, gazing upon him with soft loving eyes. “We hath missed him, so, we shall indeed do just that.” The plush happily nuzzled into the princess of the night’s mane.

End of chapter.

Author's Notes:

Here's another successful chapter.

Like SuperPinkBrony12, I had Pinkie vent to the Cakes, though, I had Mr. Cake misjudge Pinkie since Mrs. Cake is clearly the more sensitive of the two.

I also did a bit of expansion with the prank scenes and had Spike's prank have more dangerous consequences that Rainbow quickly fixes.

The appearance of Scootaloo's aunts is courtesy of the extra writer.

I feel it's worth noting that Gilda's the first character in this series to swear. This is done because griffons are more aggressive than ponies.

I left out the Junior Speedsters anthem out of absentmindedness.

This chapter marks the debut of Canus Moonstone. More info on him later.

If you're enjoying the story so far, contact me via private messages if you'd like to help make future chapters.

Chapter 6: Boast Busters (S1:E6)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 6: Boast Busters

It had been a week since Gilda came to Ponyville. Things settled down in the interim. On this particular day, Spike was helping Twilight practice with her spells.

"Come on Twilight, you can do it," Spike said. Twilight's horn began to glow, casting its usual light purple glow. Twilight carefully aimed her horn at Spike and fired a beam of magic at it. And then poof, a mustache appeared on Spike's face. “Yes, you did it!” He happily marked off a list on a nearby board. “Twenty five. Twenty five different kinds of tricks and counting. That’s also the fifteenth spell you mastered just this week.” As Spike spoke, Twilight modestly blushed.

"Oh Spike, it's nothing really, I'm sure any unicorn could've pulled off that spell." Twilight said. She really didn't like boasting about how good she was at magic, it made her feel uncomfortable.

"Well maybe, but, how many unicorns could pull off not only that spell, but, several other spells and not break a sweat?" Spike said "I only know one and I'm sure everypony else does, too."

“I don’t know, Spike,” Twilight said. “I don’t really go out of my way to show everyone what I can do.”

“You don’t have to be so humble, Twilight,” Spike said. “I mean, you’re literally the Element of Magic. How many ponies can honestly say that?”

“Considering the fact that the princesses, you, me, and our friends in Ponyville are the only ones who have any intimate knowledge on the Elements of Harmony,” Twilight said, deadpan. “Doing so wouldn’t really mean much.”

“Good point,” Spike said with a sweat drop. “Hey, is this mustache spell temporary? It’s starting to itch.”

Twilight gave a sly grin. “Are you sure you don’t want it around to impress Rarity?”

“I’m sure,” Spike said. “I’m still just getting to know her. It wouldn’t feel right if I talked to her while looking different from how I usually do.” Suddenly, his eyes widened. “Wait, you know about my crush on Rarity?”

"What makes you think I don't?" Twilight asked. "Every time Rarity comes over I notice that you can't help but stare at her. Besides, you offer your help to her more than anypony else."

“Am I that obvious?” the little dragon asked.

“To quote Applejack’s wordsmith of a brother, ‘Eeyup,’” Twilight answered. Spike sighed and looked at the floor. “Hey, what’s wrong?” the unicorn asked.

“Do you want me to be honest?”

“Spike,” Twilight said comfortingly. “You can tell me anything. You know that, don’t you?”

Spike took a deep breath. “Despite my crush, Rarity kind of intimidates me.”

“How do you mean?” asked Twilight.

“Well, I admit she’s quite a looker,” Spike explained. “But, her upper class accent reminds me of the elitist unicorns back in Canterlot. Though, she’s still nicer to me by comparison.”

Twilight could see where Spike was coming from.

“I understand, Spike,” Twilight said. “That’s why you're getting to know her first, just as I am.”

“Plus,” Spike admitted. “I’m not even sure me and Rarity would work. We’re different ages and different species.”

“Never say never, Spike,” Twilight assured him. “I’ll admit the age gap is a bit of a concern, but, I’ve read about ponies breeding with other species like dragons and griffons.”

“Oh, wow,” Spike said, somewhat enamored. He then realized how he sounded. “Uh, maybe I should take it one step at a time.”

“I think that’s a very mature decision, Spike,” Twilight agreed. “How about we get some lunch? My treat.”

“Sounds great,” Spike said, his stomach grumbling. “We have been at this for a bit.”

Spike and her made their way outside only to find that the whole village appeared to be deserted. "Where is everypony?" Twilight asked.

“That’s weird,” Spike said. “Usually on a day like today, ponies would be going about their lives.”

“It can’t be one of Pinkie’s parties,” Twilight reasoned. “Were that the case, we would’ve heard about it.”

“Coming through!” A male voice was heard shouting. Spike and Twilight heard the voice and saw that the voice came from two unicorn colts. One was short and chubby with a grayish blue coat, golden brown mane and tail, and noticeable buck teeth. The other was a mustard yellow coated stallion who was taller and slimmer and had a fluffy looking teal mane and tail. The shorter colt had a pair of scissors as his Cutie Mark while the taller colt had a purple and pink snail as his Cutie Mark. Both saw Spike’s mustache, tripped over a rock, and landed on their faces near Twilight and Spike.

“Take it easy, you two,” Twilight said. “Where’s the fire?”

“Oh, uh, haven’t you heard,” the taller unicorn asked in a somewhat slurry dopey sounding voice as he and the shorter one got up. “There is a new unicorn in town!”

“That’s right, Snails,” said the shorter unicorn with a somewhat shrill, raspy voice. “Yeesh, it feels weird saying that.”

“And that’s why there’s so few ponies in sight?” Spike asked. “I mean, I know this is a mostly earth pony town, but, you’d think they’d seen enough unicorns here that the novelty would’ve worn off by now.”

“Oh, but, we haven’t seen anypony like her,” The smaller unicorn said. “Follow us and find out! Maybe on the way, you can tell us where you got that sweet ‘stache.”

Spike wore a deadpan expression. “The mustache is from helping Twilight practice magic. Anyway, last time we followed you two, I got my head stuck in a paint bucket.”

“We should at least try to make the effort, Spike,” Twilight said. “We should at least follow Snips and Snails, then we’ll see who this new unicorn is and what she’s like.”

“She’s the most magical unicorn in Equestria,” the shorter unicorn, whose name was Snips, declared.

“You’re pulling our legs, Snips,” Spike said. “That honor goes to Twilight. She’s the student of Princess Celestia herself. They don’t give such an honor to just anypony.”

“Oh, yeah~?” Snips said in an obnoxious tone. “Well, you’ll be eating your words once you see this unicorn!”

Spike sighed. “Okay, let’s get this over with.”

So, the four met up with the other ponies standing in a crowd. They were looking at an intricately colored cart that was parked in front of Town Hall. Twilight felt something very familiar about it. Hmm, she thought to herself. I feel as though I’ve seen that cart somewhere before. Spike, however, wasn’t impressed.

"You brought us all the way out here to see this?" he asked. Suddenly, the ponies and Spike heard an unfamiliar voice.

"Welcome, citizens of Ponyville! Consider yourselves lucky, for today you shall witness some of the most spectacular acts of magic ever performed!" the voice called out.

That voice, Twilight thought. It sounds like a voice I heard back at Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns.

The ponies and Spike looked around, looking for the source of the unknown voice. To Twilight, however, it was one she knew. "You must all be wondering, who has decided to grace your humble town?" the voice said "It is none other than The Grrrrrrrrrreat and Powerful Trrrrrrrrixie!" A cloud of smoke appeared onstage. When it had vanished, there standing before the crowd was a light blue unicorn, decked out in a light purple hat and cloak, with stars and moons stitched all over it. Her mane was an even lighter blue than her coat, but, her cutie mark was obscured by her cloak, although that didn't mean she didn't have one. Most of the ponies gasped in amazement.

Twilight looked at the new unicorn and could hardly believe her eyes. Trixie Lulamoon! She gasped to herself. I haven’t seen her in years!

A few ponies, namely younger ones like Snips and Snails, were impressed by what little they had seen. Most of the other ponies didn't think much of her. Trixie quickly set to work trying to win them over. However, she noticed Twilight. “What’s this?” she asked. “A familiar figure in this town to Trixie?”

Twilight gave an awkward nod. "Uh… yes. I saw you around in classes at Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns… Until you got expelled for showboating."

Spike, having heard this, started to giggle to himself. Trixie was less than amused. “Trixie’s talents were simply too great for that school’s curriculum to keep track of,” she said.

Twilight wasn’t convinced. “Your report cards said that Performing Magic was the only magic subject you had any proficiency in.”

“Performance magic,” Spike asked curiously after calming down from his giggling fit. Snips and Snails shared this curiosity.

“There’s several different branches of magic taught at the School for Gifted Unicorns,” Twilight explained. “Performance Magic is considered the least practical of the magic disciplines. It’s mostly smoke and mirrors.”

“That would explain Trixie’s showiness,” Spike said.

Trixie was used to neighsayers during her shows, but, she had a great respect for performing magic. She wouldn’t tolerate it being spoken about that way. “Trixie may not have continued her tenure at the School for Gifted Unicorns, but, she was still able to conquer an Ursa Major!”

Snips and Snails gasped in amazement when they heard this.

“How did you do that, Great and Powerful Trixie,” Snails asked, amazed.

“Yeah,” Snips said. “Tell us all about it.”

Trixie gave a satisfied grin as she began telling the tale, using fireworks to illustrate.

"It all began when the city of Hoofington came under attack. But, not from any ordinary creature, no. The city was attacked by an Ursa Major. Most ponies would be terrified, but, the Great and Powerful Trixie knew no such fear as she boldly took on the Ursa Major alone and with one powerful blast of magic from her horn channeled through a wand, the Ursa Major was vanquished."

Several ponies could be heard calling the story a “load of manure.” Another few went on to say, “That was the biggest load of horse apples I've ever heard!"

Trixie, however, maintained her temper. "The Great and Powerful Trixie shall let you draw your own conclusions, but, she hopes that at the least she has captured your attention." she said "The real show starts now!"

Twilight and Spike made their way over to join their friends, who, not surprisingly, were already talking about Trixie.

“I say she’s nothing but a stuck-up filly who loves to hear herself talk,” Rainbow Dash said. “She thinks she’s better than anypony else.”

Applejack rolled her eyes. “Yer one ta talk. Just yesterday, ya said, n’ ah quote,” Applejack began doing an uncanny imitation of Rainbow’s voice. “‘An earthly-bound pony like you could never keep up with a speedy pegasus like me.’”

Rainbow heard this and sweat dropped. “Okay, so, I do tend to boast myself… but, the point is, I am better than everypony else.”

"Rainbow Dash! Although there is nothing wrong with a little healthy pride, bragging and boasting all the time is not polite and, to be perfectly honest, it's something that I've grown tired of," Rarity said. "You might be better at certain things like racing and flying. But, I know for a fact that you couldn't sew to save your life and yet you never hear me bragging about how good I am at making dresses."

"Rarity's got a point there." Applejack said in her regular southern drawl. "Ta me, ah don't think Trixie's half bad, although ah do wish she'd stop talkin’ all the time. She's like the thing that won't shut up."

“Looks like Trixie’s rubbing you girls the wrong way, too,” Spike said. The five mares noticed Spike’s mustache.

“Spike, are you growing up?” Fluttershy asked.

It took one second for Spike to realize what she meant. “Oh, this,” Spike explained. “I was helping Twilight with spell practice and this mustache is the result of the most recent spell she cast.”

“I like that,” Pinkie said. “It makes me think of one of the fake mustaches in my stash stash.”

Spike raised an eyebrow. “Should I even bother asking why you have such a thing?”

“No,” the five mares answered at once.

“Didn’t think so,” Spike said.

“I must admit,” Rarity chimed in. “I didn’t think it was possible for dragons to grow any kind of hair. But, then again, we don’t know a lot about dragons in general, so, there’s that.”

Spike couldn’t help but blush. “I was kind of hoping the spell wouldn’t last long,” he admitted. “This thing’s itchy and the hairs keep getting in my mouth.”

As if on cue, the mustache poofed away. Spike looked to Twilight. “I suggest that next time we try a new spell, we see how long its time limit is if it has one,” the unicorn said.

“Noted,” Spike said plainly.

“We heard Trixie say that you were familiar to her,” Fluttershy said. “Is that true?”

“It is true,” Twilight said. “While I didn’t really get to know her in Magic School, I do remember seeing her around.”

“You mentioned she was expelled for showboating,” Pinkie said.

“Well,” Twilight confessed. “I wasn’t actually there, but, I heard that during transfigurations class, she was supposed to practice turning a beetle into a button, but, ended up getting another student’s head stuck in one of the potions class’ beakers.”

Twilight’s friends couldn’t help but chuckle at the sound of the incident. Rarity found her voice first. “Where exactly were you when you heard?”

“I heard at the end of the school day,” Twilight explained. “Trixie and I didn’t always go to the same classes.”

"Hey you, all seven of you!" Trixie said "Do you have something you wish to say to Trixie?"

Rainbow Dash was about to speak up, but, Applejack stopped her "Not at all," the farm mare said.

“Trixie thought so,” she said. “So, please, be quiet. If you don’t like the show, you’re welcome to leave.”

No one did however and the show resumed. Twilight whispered to her friends, “If you don’t like her bragging so much, why are you staying?”

“Because there’s nothing else to do today,” Rainbow whispered. "The instant that wagon arrived, everypony raced right over here, everywhere else was deserted."

"Now for her next act, the Great and Powerful Trixie will need a volunteer from the audience." Trixie said. She scanned the crowd pretending to consider a few ponies. She already knew who she wanted to pick. "You," Trixie said, pointing to Applejack. "Please step forward."

Applejack rolled her eyes and got onto the stage. “Ya know,” she said. “If yer tryin’ ta out-magic an earth pony, ya ain’t too bright.”

“Oh, you’re in for something special~” Trixie said. “Tell the Great and Powerful Trixie your name.”

“Applejack,” the farm mare said before muttering under her breath. “Ya great big windbag.”

“So, Applejack~” Trixie said. “What is it that you can do?”

“Well, ah’m purty good at applebuckin’,” she answered.

“Trixie assumes you mean ‘applebumping,’” Trixie said. “Where ponies make apples fall from trees by hitting them with their heads.”

Applejack felt insulted. “That ain’t what ah can do. Just wait n’ see!”

“Why don’t you show everypony right now,” Trixie goaded. “Or are you scared?”

“Ah ain’t scared!” Applejack said. “Just watch!” Applejack started off performing moves, but, before long she started doing moves that were so complicated even Trixie was having a hard time observing.

“Anypony else feel that Applejack’s kind of stooping to Trixie’s level?” Spike whispered to Twilight and the rest of her friends.

“I feel it, too,” Twilight whispered. “It honestly kind of defeats the point she’s trying to make.”

After Applejack finished her “dancing,” she went over to a nearby wild tree that had apples growing on it and bucked them down with her hind legs. She ate one in a single bite for good measure. “How do ya like them apples?”

The crowd of ponies, minus Twilight, Spike, and their group of friends applauded.

"You are good, Trixie will give you that." Trixie said. "But, now, Trixie thinks it's time she showed you a trick that you've never heard of." Her hat began to glow light blue and was lifted off her head to reveal her horn. She focused magic on the rope, which began to slither like a snake. Applejack seemed almost hypnotized from the movements of the rope.

Suddenly, the rope began to coil around Applejack until her legs were completely hogtied. Trixie then stuck an apple into Applejack's mouth. The audience burst into laughter as Applejack began to hop offstage, although, her friends certainly weren't laughing.

“Hmm, that’s what Trixie calls a Worm-filled Apple,” Trixie said with a snooty chuckle.

“Are you okay?” Spike said as he removed the apple. Applejack’s expression was less than pleased.

“That was lower n’ a snake’s belly button!” Applejack declared.

“Um, snakes don’t have belly buttons,” Fluttershy timidly corrected.

“Exactly!” Applejack ranted. “She used magic ta publicly humiliate me at somethin’ ah’m good at! That ain’t fair!”

Spike wore a deadpan expression before untying the rope. “Well, you weren’t exactly the pinnacle of modesty up there, yourself,” he commented. “You were pretty much stooping to her level, which ultimately defeated the point you were trying to make.”

Hearing this, Applejack wore a look of shame. She took off her hat sullenly. “Ah hope y’all can forgive me. Ah didn’t mean ta get carried away as ah did, but… ah’m powerful sorry.”

“Of course we–” Pinkie began before suddenly changing the topic. “Rainbow’s been awfully quiet these past few seconds.” The five mares and Spike saw that Rainbow was absent.

“You don’t think she’s going to-” Twilight began, until Rainbow’s voice caught their attention.

“You want a REAL challenge?!” the brash pegasus shouted.

“She is,” Spike said flatly.

“And you are?” Trixie asked.

"I'm the one and only Rainbow Dash and the instant you decided to make fun of my friend, Applejack, you sealed your fate!" Rainbow said.

“Oh, really?” Trixie asked. She hadn’t planned on facing off against Rainbow Dash or anypony else for that matter. But, she knew she could find a way to make it work in her favor.

“Yeah!” Rainbow said. “You think you’re so awesome?!”

“Maybe Trixie does, maybe she doesn’t,” Trixie said with a smirk. “Trixie assumes you’re willing to show what you’re best at.”

“You got that right!” Rainbow declared. "I'd like to see how good your magic is against my awesome flying skills!" With that, Rainbow Dash took off into the skies. She pulled off a series of impressive aerial stunts and ended with a miniature rainbow appearing over her wings when she landed. "See Trixie?!" Rainbow Dash said "They don't call me Rainbow and Dash for nothing! Good luck trying to top that!"

Spike could only facepalm. “3… 2… 1…”

“Trixie does not need luck,” Trixie said before zapping the miniature rainbow, materializing into a magical smear that wraps itself around Rainbow. Before long, it had created a mini rainbow tornado which lifted her off the ground, sent her flying through the air a little, and then brought her back down to the stage, the audience erupted with laughter, minus her friends. Rainbow Dash was dazed, but, unharmed.

“I think,” Rainbow said dizzily. “I’m going to be sick.”

"Trixie would like to call that 'Rainbow Crash,' but, Trixie feels like she'd be touching a nerve." Trixie said as she helped Rainbow Dash to her hooves. "You'll be okay. Trixie does not believe in violence."

“Says the pony who literally just turned a rainbow into a tornado that could’ve torn me to pieces!” Rainbow complained as she exited the stage. “I can’t believe she beat me!” she said to her friends.

“I can,” Spike said bluntly.

“What’s that supposed to mean?!” Rainbow demanded.

“You made the same mistake Applejack did,” Spike explained. “You went up to Trixie and stooped to her level, resulting in both a public humiliation and the defeat of any point you were trying to make.”

Rainbow was stunned. “Wow,” she said. “When you put it like that, I sound like kind of a hypocrite.”

“Does anypony else wish to volunteer?” Trixie called out.

Rarity was about to step up, but, Spike stopped her. “Uh, maybe not,” he said. “I’m sensing a pattern here and it’s not a good one.”

Rarity heeded Spike’s words, so, she decided to step back. “Thank you, Spike,” she said softly. “Had I gone up there, she might’ve turned my mane green.” She saw Spike pointing to a few ponies with green manes near her, prompting her to correct herself. “Not that there’s anything wrong with that…”

Pinkie and Fluttershy resisted Trixie’s challenge. So, Trixie turned her attention to Twilight. “Trixie heard that Twilight Sparkle managed to get reasonably good grades in all subjects at the School for Gifted Unicorns with the only ones she struggled with being Care For Magical Creatures and Herbology,” the showmare challenged. “Let’s see just how skilled you are.”

“Uh, no, thank you,” Twilight said. “I think the audience would already know who would win and that wouldn't be very exciting.”

“That’s the first half-way sensible thing Trixie heard since the show started,” Trixie said. “How smart of you to refuse my challenge, especially since you know you can’t win. Now, are there any other takers to my offer?” This time, nopony said anything or stepped forward. "Well then, seeing as there are no more volunteers, Trixie will now move on to the grand finale. Hope you all like fireworks." And with that, Trixie's cart started to shoot fireworks into the sky from the various tubes on the sides. After a while the fireworks stopped and the show ended. Everything went back to normal for the time being.

“As much as I hate to admit it,” Rainbow said. “Trixie has style.”

“She’s basically what would happen if Twilight was more smug,” Spike said.

“Yeah, but, she wouldn’t be Twilight, then,” Applejack said. “She smart enough ta not let Trixie get her goat like me n’ Rainbow did. And that’s all on her own. Besides, that excuse she came up with was technically true."

“Yeah, Twilight’s the literal ELEMENT of Magic,” Pinkie said. “Not many ponies can honestly say that.”

“Considering the Elements of Harmony aren’t public knowledge,” Twilight said. “It wouldn’t really mean anything if I DID go around telling others that.”

“Believe me,” Spike said. “She said the same thing to me earlier today.”

“Besides, I wouldn’t want the fame to get around,” admitted Fluttershy quietly.

Twilight then remembered why she and Spike went outside in the first place. “Say, girls, how about we go discuss this over lunch?”

“Ooh, that sounds great,” Pinkie said excitedly. “I like having lunch. Though, I won’t say no to any other meals, either.”

“I think it was my turn to pick the place this time,” Rainbow said.

“We never established such a system, Rainbow,” Twilight said.

“Sure,” Rainbow said, “But, we have to start somewhere, right?”

Twilight considered. “Fair enough,” she conceded. “How about we work on it after lunch?”

The others agreed to this. Rainbow led them to the restaurant she had in mind. Little did the friends suspect that in a few hours time, the peace they were enjoying would be disrupted.

In a different part of Ponyville, Trixie had put her stage cart into sleeper mode and she was resting after her show. She was pleasantly surprised at how many ponies wished to meet her once her show was over. She had never had many fans before. I usually just get one or two and usually all they ever do is ask me how I performed a certain spell. I'm not doing this for a living, but, surely a little appreciation isn't too much to ask for, right? she thought to herself. Just then, Snips and Snails arrived to visit Trixie. They were also joined by a third unicorn colt. The third colt was taller and skinnier than Snips, but, shorter and chubbier than Snails. He had a pale red coat, a brown mane and tail, and a Cutie Mark depicting a puppy. This colt was less than amused.

“This had better be important, you two,” the third colt said. “I have chores to do.”

“It sure is important,” Snips said with an eager smile.

“We wanted you to meet,” began Snails, before the two said colts said together

“The Great and Powerful Trixie~!” Snips and Snails said in unison.

The third colt looked less than impressed. “You pulled me away from my chores just to see a cut-rate showmare?”

“Cut-rate showmare?!” Snips snapped indignantly. “She’s the most powerful unicorn in all of Ponyville! Maybe in all of Equestria!”

“Yeah,” Snails said. “She vanquished an Ursa Major. That’s not cut-rate, is it, Puppy Dog Tails?”

The red colt wore a flat expression and face-hoofed. “I can’t believe this,” he groaned. “You two need to stop taking everything you hear at face value.”

“And you need to stop being so serious, Tails,” Snips said.

“Uh, Trixie would hate to interrupt your…” the mare paused. “What are you? Brothers?”

“Unfortunately, yes,” answered Tails.

“Yes, well,” Trixie continued. “Trixie would hate to interrupt your brotherly bickering, but, Trixie has had a long day and she would like to get some rest.”

“Can you at least teach us magic?” Snails asked. Tails wore a shocked expression.

“Wait, what?” Tails gasped. “You want to learn magic… from her?!”

Trixie was equally surprised. “Surely, there must be other unicorns here to teach you,” she said. “Why not try that Twilight Sparkle?”

“Because if we do,” Snails said. “Twilight will talk to our parents and then they will insist that they and they alone should teach us.”

“And we should respect their wishes,” Tails scolded. “You two are on thin ice as it is!”

“So,” Trixie said. “You two are asking Trixie to teach you magic against the wishes of your parents?”

“They do NOT speak for me,” Tails insisted.

“Come on, Tails,” Snips said. “Doesn’t it bug you that we’re in first grade and we still can’t use basic magic?”

“I’ll admit it’s an irritating hoofticap,” Tails admitted. “But, our parents will teach us in due course. We have to be patient.”

“Indeed, you must,” Trixie said. “Now, why don’t you three get on home while Trixie gets her rest.”

“Okay, that third-pony thing is grating on my nerves,” Tails said. “Come on, you two. We’re going home.”

“You’re not dad,” Snips protested.

“The way I have to put up with you two, I might as well be,” Tails snapped.

“But,” Trixie said. “You can come visit Trixie tomorrow. She can teach you magic somewhere nopony else will see.”

“Can you?!” Snips and Snails said excitedly. “Okay!”

Tails could see that his brothers weren’t going to listen to him and decided to just remove himself from the situation. “Fine, but, when you two get in trouble for the sixth or seventh time this week, don’t blame me. I’ll just say, ‘I told you so.’”

Some time later, Snips and Snails were making their way home. Unfortunately, they didn’t fully know their way home from where Trixie was and they both got themselves hopelessly lost.

“Think we should’ve stuck to Tails?” Snails asked.

“Pfft!” Snips scoffed. “He’s just a know-it-all. We’ll find our way home in no time.”

“I’m pretty sure we passed that tree four times already,” Snails looked at a tree with spindly branches.

“Well, this is just great,” Snips said in annoyance.

“Maybe we should just wait out the night in that cave,” Snails suggested.

“That’s…” Snips began. “That’s actually a great idea. It’ll be dark, but, we’ll at least be safe from the elements outside.”

The two colts entered the cave, which turned out darker than outside.

“Oof!” Snips said. “I can hardly see my hoof in front of my face.”

“Why would you want to look at your own hoof,” Snails asked curiously.

“Very funny,” Snips said, rolling his eyes. “I saw you reading from Tails’ spell books. Did you read the illumination spell?”

“Oh, yeah,” Snails said. “Let me see if I can try it.” He tried channeling his magic into his horn, struggling to the point of sounding like a car engine struggling to turn over. With one last effort, he was able to make a decent sized light with his magic aura, glowing with a bright yellow-orange glow. “I… did it…” he gasped in relief.

“That was great, Snails,” Snips said excitedly. The two started cheering.

However, the celebration was short-lived. What the two failed to realize was that the cave was occupied. A loud growl echoed in the cave. The two colts turned to see where the growl came from. There before their eyes was a large slightly transparent blue bear with a star motif. Snips and Snails, seeing what they think is an Ursa Major, scream in terror before running out.

"How did we manage to wake up an Ursa Major?!" Snips asked.

“I don’t know,” Snails said. “But, we have to get out of here!”

On the edge of the forest, Tails is making a disgruntled trek to find his brothers. “I swear,” he complained. “I can’t leave those two alone for five minutes.”

His search didn’t take too long, as his brothers literally zoomed past him. “What in Tartarus is going on?!” the red colt asked.

“Can’t talk now,” Snips called back while running.

“Got a major problem,” Snails called back while running.

Tails looked back and saw the creature following them. “Normally, I would be terrified that such a creature was following them,” Tails said to himself. “But, since my brothers are involved, I’m more annoyed than scared.” The creature landed a paw near Tails with a claw extended. That claw scratched Tails’ leg. “Okay, terror’s back.” He then ran after his brothers. “WHAT DID YOU DO THIS TIME?!”

“We don’t know!” Snips shouted as he ran. “We were making our way home, then, we got lost and we found this cave!”

“Then, I remembered one of the spells in your spellbook,” Snails said. “And I tried to light up my horn.”

“WHY DID YOU THINK IT WAS A GOOD IDEA TO GO INTO A CAVE IN THE EVERFREE FOREST AT NIGHT?!”

“We thought it was a safe place to spend the night,” Snails said.

“We got lost, okay?!” Snips snapped.

“Just wait until mom and dad hear about this!” Tails said.

“They’re not going to if we don’t make it out alive!” Snails wailed.

Snips realized something. “Wait, Trixie vanquished an Ursa Major, right?”

“We’re running for our lives and the first thing that comes to mind is a tall tale?!” Tails snapped. “And you wonder why our parents are so hard on you!”

“What I mean is,” Snips explained. “If Trixie vanquished one before, she has the skills to do it again!”

“If we make it out of this alive,” Tails declared. “I’m going to smack you up the back of the head.”

“Only mom and dad can do that and they’re not home right now,” Snips countered.

“WELL, SOMEPONY HAS TO!!!” Tails shouted.

Soon, they arrived at Trixie’s wagon. Snips and Snails pounded on Trixie’s door frantically, while Tails hid to the side of it where he could catch his breath. “You idiots!” Tails said while catching his breath. “You seriously think a showmare will help with this?!”

Trixie answered her door and Snips and Snails gave her some space as they pant. “What do you two want?” the mare demanded.

“We know we said to wait until tomorrow,” Snips panted. “But, we need your help!”

“What you two need is a clue!” Tails said. “I’m getting Twilight!” He galloped off.

“What could be so important that it couldn’t wait until morning,” Trixie asked, clearly vexed about being woken up. A monstrous roar answered her question. “Is that what Trixie thinks it is?” She meekly asked.

“Majorly,” the colts answered.

Meanwhile, Tails reached the Golden Oak Library and pounded the door. “Twilight!”

Twilight answered the door to see the distressed unicorn colt.

“Puppy Dog Tails, are you alright?” Twilight asked. “What’s wrong?”

“My brothers have gotten in WAY over their heads this time!”

“It’s okay to be nervous,” Twilight said. “But, what exactly is the trouble?”

“See for yourself,” the colt said, pointing towards the distance.

Twilight looked and saw the Ursa approaching Ponyville. “Sweet Celestia!” she shouted. “How did they manage this?!”

“Never mind that! Ponyville needs your help!”

Twilight looked on, and she gave an understanding nod to Tails. “Spike,” she called inside. “Come here, please. I’m going out and I don’t want you to be home alone.”

The baby dragon approached her, clearly grumpy about being woken up. “Can’t it wait until morning?”

“I’m sorry, Spike,” Twilight said. “But, I felt you shouldn’t be alone right now.” She levitated him onto her back.

“Besides, if Twilight waits now,” Tails added. “Ponyville won’t be here in the morning!”

That foreboding warning from Tails changed Spike’s perspective. “Well,” he hastily said. “What are we waiting for?!”

The two unicorns galloped off with Spike in tow.

By now, all of Ponyville was awake. They were shocked and horrified by the Ursa that was in town. Trixie was hiding in a corner. Snips and Snails saw this and walked up to her.

“What are you doing there, Trixie?” Snails asked, confused.

“Why aren’t you vanquishing that Ursa Major?” Snips questioned.

Trixie was beginning to regret telling that story to such gullible colts.

“Trixie, uh,” she stammered. “Trixie was catching her breath from the running. But, now, I’m ready.” She faced the creature and put on a brave face despite her own fears. So, she used a similar rope trick to the one she did on Applejack earlier that day. Sadly, it only tied two of the creature’s paw digits. The Ursa effortlessly broke the rope by spreading the paw digits. Trixie then conjured a stormcloud. A bolt of lightning zaps the Ursa in the rump, but, instead of driving it away, it only served to anger the creature.

“Quit fooling around and vanquish it, eh?!” Snails said.

At that moment, Twilight, Spike, and Tails met up with Snips and Snails.

“You still believe her story?” Tails scolded.

“Well, if they do believe,” Trixie finally said. “They shouldn’t…” She swallowed her pride. “I made it up.”

“Made it up?!” Snips and Snails shouted in shock. Tails responded by using his forehooves to hit the tops of their heads.

“OF COURSE SHE MADE IT UP!” he shouted. “SHE’S A TRAVELING PERFORMER! IT’S WHAT SHE DOES! SHE TELLS FANTASTICAL STORIES TO LURE AUDIENCES IN!”

“Tails, I understand the frustrations,” Twilight said. “But, is yelling and hitting your brothers going to solve this problem?”

“No, but, if you lived in the same house as them,” Tails said. “You’d understand why I need some catharsis! I’m supposed to be the responsible brother, but, every time these two get in trouble, I look bad for not keeping a better watch on them!”

Twilight gave Tails a comforting hug. “It’s okay,” Twilight said calmly. She then faced the Ursa and focused her magic. With her magic, she conjured a powerful gust of wind. Some cattails by a nearby lake snapped, creating a whistling sound with the wind. The sound reached the Ursa’s ears and the creature was immediately calmed down.

“Ooh, #16, the windy spell,” Spike commented.

Twilight focused with her magic and the wind died down. She then levitated a nearby water tower, opened its top, and dumped its contents into a nearby lake. She then levitated it through a barn full of cows. When the tower came out, it was full of milk. The white liquid was instantly pasteurized and warmed up thanks to the heat from the sheer amount of magical energy being put into lifting its container.

“That’s new,” Spike noted.

The large creature grew steadily more lethargic. He started to lose his balance, nearly landing on a bystanding Trixie. She braced for impact, but, saw that the bear was engulfed in Twilight’s magical aura. The lavender unicorn in question was straining from the effort as her horn glowed as brightly as the sun. She levitated the bear and floated the milk filled water tower towards him. The bear sleepily took it and started to suckle on the water tower as if it was a baby bottle. With all of Twilight’s effort, she gently levitated the bear back into his cave home in the Everfree Forest. Once she was certain that the bear was outside of Ponyville, she stopped using her magic and caught her breath. Her horn was red and smoking, a sign of the effort she put into the spells. Spike and the citizens of Ponyville applauded Twilight’s efforts and cheered for her.

Trixie was amazed. "How did you manage to tame that Ursa Major?!" she asked.

“Well, as you can tell from my overheated horn,” Twilight said. “It wasn’t easy. Also, that wasn’t an Ursa Major. It was a baby. An Ursa Minor.”

“That was a baby?!” Trixie asked as if she couldn’t believe what she heard.

“That’s right, a baby,” Twilight said. “I did some reading on Ursa Majors and Ursa Minors after we got home from lunch, so, I figured out what to do from there.” She then turned her attention to Spike. “Spike, could you show them the book I’ve been reading since this afternoon? I’d do it myself, but, with my horn overheated, that wouldn’t be a good idea.”

“Yeah, no problem, Twilight,” Spike said. He quickly ran back to the Golden Oaks Library and grabbed the book that Twilight was reading before. He soon returned and showed them the book, which was entitled, “Mystical Creatures of Equestria.” It was open on a page detailing the visual differences between Ursa Majors and Ursa Minors. This surprised not only Snips and Snails, but, even Trixie as well. The Ursa Major completely dwarfed the depiction of the Ursa Minor.

“Whoa!” Trixie gasped. “An actual Ursa Major rampage would have been worse!”

“The Ursa Minor wasn’t rampaging,” Twilight said. “He was just cranky for being woken up.”

Snips and Snails looked ashamed and embarrassed at themselves. Tails chose that moment to direct some of the shame to Trixie. “Maybe if somepony hadn’t gone around shooting her mouth off about doing something she didn’t, they wouldn’t have had the ‘brilliant’ idea of luring that thing into town in the first place.”

“Trixie…” Trixie began, before clearing her throat. “I mean, I have come to understand my mistakes. It was wrong of me to put all of you in danger with my wild exaggerations. So, I know this won’t fix the damage I’ve done, but, I want to apologize to all of you for all of the trouble I’ve caused. I’ll personally take care of the collateral damage. I’ll work all night if I have to.”

The other ponies and Spike were glad to hear a genuine heartfelt apology from Trixie. Other ponies volunteered to help Trixie so that she wouldn’t have to work alone and possibly exhaust herself. “Say, Trixie,” Twilight said. “Do you have a place to stay while you’re here?”

“I did,” Trixie said as she gestured to the smashed remains of her cart.

“Well,” Twilight said. “The Golden Oak Library does have a spare bedroom to it. You’re welcome to use that so that you have some place to rest should you need it.”

“Thanks anyway,” Trixie said. “But, I couldn’t possibly afford the rent. I barely make any bits as it is.”

“I couldn’t ask you to pay rent,” Twilight said insistently. “You would be our guest.”

“It’s a very generous offer,” Trixie said. “But, I’m rarely in one town for longer than a day or two.”

“Alright,” Twilight conceded. “If you insist.”

The next morning, Trixie had finished fixing the last damaged building in Ponyville. She was visibly exhausted and her hooves had cracks in them, clear signs that she hadn’t used her magic to help in the work. Twilight, Spike, and their friends walked up to her.

“You okay, Trixie?” Rainbow asked. “You look like you’ve been working all night.”

“I have,” Trixie admitted.

“Ya really put in a lot of effort to fix things up ‘round here,” Applejack said. “But, since yer done, why don’t ya get somethin’ in yer belly?”

“Do you have any peanut butter crackers?” Trixie asked. “I had a large supply in my cart, but…”

“Ya mean,” Applejack said with a smile. She then went back and grabbed the newly repaired caravan. “This cart?”

Trixie’s jaw dropped. “You fixed my cart?!”

“Since you learned your lesson,” Twilight explained. “We felt you shouldn’t leave town without having a roof over your head. Besides, you put in the effort to fix the damage to our town, so, why not return the favor?”

“Nopony’s ever done that for me before,” Trixie said as tears welled up in her eyes.

“It’s what we do,” Pinkie says with a good-natured smile. “It’s also stocked with snacks from Sugarcube Corner. Or, at least, my personal stash.”

Trixie looked into the cart and found various baked goods. “This is more than I usually get in a week!”

“We couldn’t let you venture on with an empty stomach,” Rarity said. “We figured you’d been through enough hardship.”

“One thing bugs me, though,” Rainbow said. “Yesterday, you kept doing that whole third-pony thing. What’s that about?”

“That’s my stage persona,” Trixie admitted after helping herself to some bread. “I come from a long line of performers. My father is a parlor magician in Las Pegasus and my mother is a stage actress. One thing they taught me about show business is that if you want to get anywhere, you need something that reels ponies in. A gimmick, if you will.”

“I guess that makes sense,” Rainbow said.

“My father taught me everything I know about Performance Magic,” Trixie continued. “He even took me to magic shows when I was a filly.” She sighed nostalgically. “I knew at once that was what I wanted to be.”

“That’s wonderful,” Fluttersy said.

“You must make a good living with your shows,” Pinkie said.

Trixie winced. “Well, actually… I don’t.”

“Wait,” Rarity said suddenly. “You mean to say that you don’t charge admission for your performances?”

Trixie shook her head. “Any bits I make are courtesy donations,” she admitted. “I just perform because I love doing it.” She then muttered under her breath, “Though, a little appreciation now and then would be nice.”

“What was that?” Applejack asked.

Trixie quickly corrected herself. “Nothing. I better get going now.”

The ponies and Spike wished Trixie well on her journey. Trixie and Twilight even agreed that the next time Trixie came to town, they’d test how much their magic improved by then. Though, Twilight had some concerns.

“Does anypony else feel that Trixie’s hiding something?” the lavender unicorn asked her friends.

“Ah sure felt that,” Applejack replied. “Ah wonder what.”

“Eh, that’s a chapter for another day,” Pinkie said.

This remark left the others confused, but, they decided to shrug it off. Spike then turned to Twilight.

“Hey, Twilight,” Spike said. “Do you think you have a lesson for Princess Celestia ready?”

Twilight nodded. “Let’s head back to the library.”

It wasn’t long before the two returned to Golden Oaks Library. Once there, Spike got out a quill and a piece of paper to roll into a scroll. Twilight spoke the words for him to write.

“Dear Princess Celestia,
Today I learned that it’s important to have confidence in yourself. Without confidence, even the most talented ponies is nothing. Of course, it's important that you recognize the difference between confidence and boasting. No one likes a bragger and actions speak louder than words. Perhaps the most important thing a pony should do is remember what you say and do describes how others view you. But, it’s never too late to change who you are on the inside as long as you’re willing to take the first step.
Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle.”

Spike breathed his emerald flames on the scroll and sent it on its way. “Off it goes,” he said. “You know, I heard Snips and Snails are doing community service.”

“I see,” Twilight said. “I wonder how Puppy Dog Tails is doing.”

“Didn’t you hear?” Spike asked. “He’s supervising them to make sure they don’t do anything stupid.” He chuckled. “He’s got his work cut out for him.”

“For a colt with a puppy for his Cutie Mark,” Twilight remarked. “He is acting like a real tough dog.”

Meanwhile, Snips and Snails were picking up litter with Tails watching them. “I’m not taking my eyes off you for a second.”

“He’s taking this way too seriously,” Snips said as he picked up a piece of trash.

“Yeah,” Snails said. “He really is our brother.”

End of chapter.

Chapter 7: Dragonshy (S1:E7)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 7: Dragonshy

It had been two days since Trixie left Ponyville. In that time, Snips and Snails were still working off their punishment and were scolded by their parents. Their parents decided to take time out of their schedules to teach them magic so that what happened that day wouldn’t happen again.

On this particular day, everypony in Ponyville felt this would be a day of no particular importance or significance. However, had anypony bothered to look up when it seemed unusually dark for daytime, they might have realized that this perception was wrong. But, as nopony did, they went about their daily business.

Only Fluttershy knew better, only Fluttershy knew that something was wrong. The pegasus mare was frightened with quite a rightful fright. She now was trying desperately to bring attention to what she'd seen, a task made difficult by her timid nature. "Help!" She desperately called in her best speaking tone (which unfortunately was barely more audible than a whisper). "Please, somepony! There's... there's a really horrible cloud of smoke. It's headed this way and-" But, she was soon cut off by the sight of Rainbow Dash bouncing a big red ball with white polka dots.

“No need to be a scaredy pony, Fluttershy,” Rainbow said, not hearing a word the yellow pegasus said. “It’s just me, and I’m soon gonna break the all-time ball-bouncing record. Isn’t that right, Pinkie?”

The pink party mare nodded excitedly. “Yeah! Though, it’s a little weird you and the weather team chose today for an overcast.”

This caused Rainbow to stop bouncing her rubber ball in confusion. “Overcast?” she asked. “We had a sunny day planned.”

“That’s not overcast, girls,” Fluttershy began. But, her words fell on deaf ears.

“Are you sure?” Pinkie asked. “Today isn’t that sunny at all. For daytime, it’s a little dark.”

“Hmm,” Rainbow said aloud, but, still to herself. “One of the cloud machines must be on the fritz.”

“It can’t be one of the cloud machines, because–” Fluttershy tried to warn them, only to once again be ignored.

“You know,” Pinkie pointed out. “You’d think that as the captain of Ponyville’s weather team, you’d be on top of stuff like this, Dashie. Or are you just slacking off so you can clear the skies yourself in under a minute? Again?”

“I promise you,” Rainbow said. “If there was some oversight, I would have caught it before I left.”

“That’s what you said when the weather team skipped a scheduled sprinkle four days ago,” Pinkie said.

Rainbow and Pinkie were so focused on their objectives that they still paid no regard to Fluttershy. It was a very frustrating experience that made her want to scream! But all she could do was let out a small sigh and a groan. "Oh, this is an emergency! Why won't anypony listen to me?" She complained, mostly to herself. "I just need everypony to..."

Yet at that moment, who should interrupt the peace and quiet but Mayor Mare herself? She seemed to look a bit concerned. Well, more concerned than she usually was since she always seemed to be concerned about something. But, even so, all of Ponyville knew that when the mayor was showing up in public that usually meant there was an important announcement soon to follow. And this would be no exception. "Citizens of Ponyville, may I have your attention please?"

Mayor Mare’s outburst caused all of the ponies to stop what they were doing and they focused their collective attention on her.

“Thank you for your cooperation,” Mayor Mare said as she adjusted her glasses. “I’m certain you’ve figured out why it’s been unusually dark for the daytime.” When most ponies responded with overcast, the mayor was incredulous. “Really? None of you looked up and saw the smoke in the sky?”

“I have,” Fluttershy said quietly. Again, nopony heard her.

Once Mayor Mare asked that last question, all the ponies looked up and saw the smoke. “How in Tartarus did we miss that?!” one pony could be heard saying.

“Not to worry, everyone,” Mayor Mare said. “The smoke is not coming from a fire. I repeat, the smoke is not coming from a fire.” Ponyville breathed a collective sigh of relief. "Twilight Sparkle has been in contact with Princess Celestia, who has received word of the true cause of the smoke. I'll let her explain everything."

Twilight promptly stepped forward from behind Mayor Mare. "Thank you, Mayor Mare," And she proceeded to speak. "You heard right, everypony. The smoke is not coming from a fire. It's coming from a slumbering dragon. Rest assured, this matter will quickly be dealt with. Ponyville will not be covered with smoke for much longer."

The ponies muttered to themselves about this. Fluttershy, however, felt nervous about this news. “A… a dragon?” She timidly squeaked to herself. “A-as in, a fully-grown dragon?” Once again, nopony heard her.

Fluttershy already had reason to be worried when she had seen the smoke and thought it was coming from a fire. But this was worse, a living, breathing dragon was the cause of the problem. And for the shy pegasus, that was going to force her to come to terms with something that she had gone to great lengths to ignore.

In regards to the dragon being in Ponyville, they were confused as to why that would be the case. They didn’t think it was a plan of Spike’s, though. By now, everypony in town knew that Spike hadn’t met any other dragons in his short life of over 10 pony years. So, he couldn’t very well have arranged for one to come to Ponyville, could he? Many ponies asked what a dragon would be doing in town.

Twilight simply answered in a matter of fact tone. "Princess Celestia has told me that it's sleeping. And when a dragon sleeps, it sometimes snores. And when it snores, it can send out smoke, which is what's happening now." She then turned to Mayor Mare.

Mayor Mare was all too happy to take over explaining everything. "As I said earlier, this will not be a problem for very long. Princess Celestia has already got some very capable ponies working on the issue and several pegasi have been dispatched to try and disperse the smoke so that it won't cover the entire town. Still, for everypony's safety I advise you all to stay indoors until further notice. This inconvenience shall soon pass."

Twilight then declared. "Indeed it will, Mayor Mare. There are five very special ponies I want to see in the Golden Oak Library very soon. I will explain everything to them there." And with that, she departed.

Rainbow and Pinkie figured that two of those ponies would be themselves and they set off for the Golden Oak Library at once. “Come on, Fluttershy!” called Rainbow. “Twilight needs us!” She dragged the yellow pegasus along.

At the Golden Oak Library, Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, and Spike were waiting as Rainbow, Pinkie, and Fluttershy came in. “Ah hope y’all can explain what ya need us fer, Twilight,” Applejack said. “Takin’ on a full-grown dragon don’t sound like somethin’ we’re suited fer.”

“It must be a direct order from Princess Celestia,” Rarity said. “She must think quite highly of us after our adventure in the Everfree Forest. I just can’t believe we didn’t notice all that smoke.”

With narrowed eyes, Fluttershy protested. “I noticed.” This time, all present heard her.

“You did?” Pinkie asked genuinely surprised. “Why didn’t you say so?”

Fluttershy grew frustrated. “I tried to, but, nopony listened to me. That’s why I was in the park in the first place.”

“If it was something like an emergency,” Rainbow said. “Speak up! How did you come to notice the smoke before any of us anyway?”

Fluttershy’s response was brief and unusually blunt. “I looked up.”

Rainbow was about to make a remark about it, but, she remembered that she was too distracted with her ball-bouncing to have noticed the smoke before. “It probably says something about my competence as the captain of the weather team if a pony who’s not even on the weather team notices something unusual about the weather before I do.”

“Alright, everypony,” Twilight said. “There’s still the matter of getting the dragon to leave the Ponyville mountain he’s sleeping in.”

“Wait, how do you know the dragon’s a ‘he?’” Pinkie asked.

“An updated report from Princess Celestia came while you three were on your way here,” Twilight explained. “This is a red dragon named Razer. Princess Celestia has encountered him a few times during her trips to the Dragonlands.”

“So, we’re showing the princess how awesome we are again?” Rainbow boasted.

"This isn't about your ego, Rainbow Dash," Twilight quickly corrected the brash speedster. "I specifically asked Princess Celestia to let us handle this. She's very concerned about Razer and about the smoke he’s bringing. It hasn't just affected Ponyville, lots of cities all over Equestria have begun reporting problems due to the smoke. And it's only going to get worse if we don't do something about it."

“Ah repeat,” Applejack said. “Why us? Why not send in the royal guard ta deal with it if we're talkin' about a dragon?"

Twilight immediately explained. “Razer’s not covering Equestria in smoke on purpose. He just chose to take a nap and his snoring is causing the smoke.”

“I suppose that makes sense if it’s a habit of his.” Rarity said. “Though, Spike takes naps on the regular and as far as I’m aware, he’s never produced smoke from snoring.”

“That’s because it only happens when fully-grown dragons sleep,” Twilight explained. “Princess Celestia explained that as well.” She then returned to the previous subject. “Since it’s not being done on purpose, I convinced Princess Celestia to have us resolve this peacefully. Sending the royal guards would be considered an act of aggression. Remember what happened when Rainbow aggressively woke Spike up five days ago?”

A flashback showed Spike napping peacefully against Twilight’s side as the mare laid on her stomach with her front hooves curled at a picnic with the other mares.

“He looks so cute and innocent when he’s sleeping,” Fluttershy whispered.

“He certainly does,” Rarity whispered with a smile. “One would never have guessed that he faced such hardships at a young age. Naps are probably among the few moments of peace he gets in life. It would be a shame to rouse him from his slumber so soon.”

As if on cue, Rainbow flew onto the scene. Unlike the other mares, she was speaking rather loudly and holding Spike roughly.

“Hey, guys!” Rainbow said. “How are you guys doing?”

Spike woke up in a rather grumpy mood. “I. Was. Trying. TO SLEEP!” At the last two words, Spike let out a few embers that lightly singed Rainbow’s mane.

Sensing Spike’s anger, she gently set him down and backed away nervously. Suddenly, her mane started smoking. She sniffed the air. “Does anypony else smell something burning?”

“Yeah,” Pinkie said. “It’s your mane.”

Rainbow looked at her bangs and sure enough, a small flame was lit on the tip. “Whoa!” Rainbow shouted and quickly ran to the nearby river and dipped her head in.

Back to present day, Rainbow had a sheepish look on her face from the memory.

“Would you really want to have a repeat of that with an adult dragon?” Twilight asked the brash pegasus.

“No,” Rainbow said with an embarrassed raspy squeak. “But, if that isn’t the best way to wake up a dragon, then, what is?”

“Nothing you’d normally do,” Spike quipped. “That’s for sure.”

“Why don’t ya join us, Spike,” Applejack said. “Since ya know more about bein’ a dragon than we ever could, ya’d know more about what ta do.”

“I already planned on bringing Spike along,” Twilight said. “Let’s see how the modified Draketongue I taught him compares to the original.” Draketongue was the language of dragons. While somewhat phonetic like Ponish, it was more tonal. No ponies ever truly studied the language in depth since ponies usually ran away from dragons.

“Sounds like a plan,” Applejack said. “Well, we better pack up supplies that we need ta scale the mountain. We’ll meet up again in half an hour.”

“I hear ya, AJ,” Rainbow agreed.

Fluttershy, however, was still nervous about the idea. But, before she could say anything, the other four mares left. Twilight noticed the nervous yellow pegasus as she was packing her own supplies. “Is something wrong, Fluttershy?”

“Actually, Twilight,” Fluttershy began. “There is something wrong. I don’t really like this idea of going up to see the dragon…”

“Why not?” Spike and Twilight asked.

“Well,” Fluttershy said. “It’s not that I don’t want to help… it’s just that… um…” She whispered under her breath.

“Are you worried about your animal friends?” Spike asked. “We could leave them to Dr. Fauna.”

“Um, thank you,” Fluttershy said timidly. “But, that’s not what I was-”

Twilight thought Fluttershy was trying to get out of the mission.

“Fluttershy,” Twilight said patiently. “If there’s something you need to tell us about this, you can talk to us about anything.” She put a hoof on the shy pegasus’ shoulder. “You’re an important part of this mission. You’re a critter whisperer and we can hardly do this without you.”

Fluttershy felt flattered, but, felt it necessary to point something out. “My abilities as a critter whisperer don’t work on creatures with pony-level intelligence. Dragons are in that category.”

“Well, that’s true,” Spike said. “She and I are able to talk to each other.” He then considered something. “Then again, I was raised to speak Ponish, so, there’s that.”

“Fluttershy,” Twilight said. “Is there something wrong?”

“Uh, just forget I said anything,” the pegasus said. “I’ll go pack medical supplies in case Spike or the girls get hurt.”

She shuffled out of the Golden Oak Library, leaving Twilight and Spike visibly confused.

“I may not be a mind-reader,” Spike said. “But, even I can tell she’s hiding something.”

“Give Fluttershy some time, Spike,” Twilight said. “She may not be the Element of Honesty, but, she should know how to be honest. If she feels up to telling us what’s going on, she will, but, we shouldn’t pressure her. Besides, if it were really important, she’d’ve told us.”

“Good point,” Spike admitted. “Since we’re going up a mountain, I’ll need to dress warmly, right?”

“Of course,” Twilight said. “I’ll also make sure to prepare a thermos of hot cocoa for you. And you’re more than welcome to ride on my back so you can stay warm.”

“Thanks, Twilight,” Spike said gratefully. “Maybe pack a blanket for good measure.”

“I will,” Twilight said with a sweet smile.

Meanwhile, the rest of the mares are getting ready. Rainbow Dash made sure to plan out a route to Cloudsdale from the mountain to rally other pegasi to keep the smoke at bay. The other pegasi she rallied saluted her. Rainbow then flew to her cloudominium above Ponyville and dipped her hooves in a rainbow-colored puddle. She smeared the colors on her cheeks like war paint and gave a primal cry.

At Sweet Apple Acres, Big McIntosh and Granny Smith helped pack Applejack’s supplies. They packed not only apples and bottles of apple juice, but, they also packed a lasso and other rodeo supplies. Caramel also pitched in with helping pack, though, he struggled remembering what Granny Smith told him to pack. Once her saddlebags were ready, Big McIntosh hoisted them onto Applejack’s back, though it was a bit heavy even for her. She quickly adjusted to the added weight, though. “Good luck, Applejack,” Caramel said. “I wish I could come, but, I’d probably slow you down.”

“Ah appreciate yer support all the same, Caramel,” Applejack said, giving the stallion a kiss on the cheek.

At Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie packed her supplies, which mostly consisted of random party favors. She stepped out wearing a pair of ridiculously big red-framed sunglasses and her saddle bags full to bursting with party supplies. One of them literally did so. Pinkie giggled at this, but, knowing the situation, she regained her composure. “Oop, I mean… Grr!”

At Carousel Boutique, Rarity had packed mostly clothing supplies. Since they were going to climb a mountain, she knew she had to bring things to keep herself and her friends warm. She trotted by a mirror. She noticed the army helmet she put on her head, but, she didn’t like the look of how it clashed with her mane and coat. After a quick change, she replaced the helmet with a more fashion forward hat. “Much better,” she commented. “Onward!”

At Fluttershy’s cottage, she packed various medical supplies and dressed herself in makeshift armor made of sports equipment. This is one of those times I’m glad my brother leaves his stuff behind whenever he visits, she thought to herself. It’s not much, but, any protection is better than no protection.

Just like that, everypony was ready for action whether they wanted to be or not. And soon, all had gathered outside of the library as Twilight pulled out a map, holding it aloft in the light purple glow of her magic. Spike was wearing a fleece jacket and knit cap, both colored green. “Okay, everyone,” Twilight said. "I already went and mapped out the fastest route possible up the mountain, but, we'll have to keep a good pace if we don't want to have to spend a night camping out."

"Ah thought ya said it wouldn't take more ‘n a few hours." Applejack questioned as she arched an eyebrow upward in suspicion.

“That’s barring unexpected complications,” Twilight explained. "And it'll be too dangerous for us to try and make our way up the mountain at night. So, if nightfall comes and we're not at the top, we'll have to set up camp and start again in the morning. But, it shouldn't have to come to that. If we all do our part, this will be over with soon."

Hearing Twilight’s explanation made sense to Applejack. She even looked up at the mountain where the dragon was taking his nap. “Looks mighty nippy up there,” the farm mare observed.

“It sure is,” Rainbow said. “The higher up you go, the colder it gets.”

“That’s why I’m wearing this coat and cap,” Spike said. “I need to keep warm.”

“Wouldn’t the fire in your tummy do that for you?” Pinkie asked.

“It doesn’t work that way, Pinkie,” Spike explained. “My dragon fire can be weakened in colder areas. My cold blood keeps me at a normal temperature, but, it can’t keep me warm like your blood can.”

“In order to keep Spike warm,” Twilight said. “I have more supplies should he need them.”

“I brought my scarf,” Rarity said, promptly wrapping a lovely pink scarf around her neck.

“Oh, that’ll really keep you warm,” Rainbow said sarcastically.

The fashionista simply swished her tail as she replied in an unconcerned tone of voice. "Please, you think I would pack a mere scarf for a mountain climbing adventure? Of course I came prepared with a full ensemble to match. And despite your rather rude remark, I'd be more than happy to let you 'borrow' it."

“Thanks, but, I’m good,” Rainbow said. “I’m used to higher altitudes, so, I don’t get too cold up there.”

“We have a long hike ahead of us,” Twilight said, levitating Spike onto her back. "So, I suggest we stop talking and start moving. The longer we stand around here, the longer this’ll take."

However, just as the group was getting ready to head out, Rainbow Dash took notice of something. Or rather someone. "Fluttershy?" She questioned, as though shocked that her fellow pegasus would be coming along on such an adventure. "Why are you here again? We both know sometimes you can even be afraid of your own shadow."

“I am not!” Fluttershy said somewhat indignantly. Although, she was still visibly shaking.

Rainbow sighed, resisting the urge to roll her eyes. "Come on, we both know what's going on here. You don't have to do this. We'll be just fine without you."

Fluttershy shook her head. “I brought medical supplies and I’m the only one who knows how to use them,” she insisted. “Besides, Twilight said I’m important to this mission. If she believes that, I’m going to trust her.”

"As opposed to trusting yourself?!" The brash speedster complained. "Please, just back out already. Twilight will understand. If you tag along, you're just going to slow us down and everypony's going to wonder why. It's none of their business knowing about the things you'd rather keep to yourself."

The yellow pegasus simply insisted. “I won't slow anypony down!” Under her breath, though, she said to herself. “I hope…”

Twilight couldn't help but overhear the conversation between the two pegasi and immediately sought to inquire. "Is there something I should know about? I don't want any arguments or distractions, we're wasting time already."

“Go on, Fluttershy!” Encouraged Rainbow. “Twilight will understand if you tell her.”

But, Fluttershy replied. "There's nothing to tell, Rainbow Dash. If Twilight wants me to come along on this mission, then that's that. She's counting on me and, by extension, so is Princess Celestia. I'm not going to let either of them down!"

“Well, if it’s nothing,” Twilight said. “We need to put it behind us. Come on, there’s no time to lose!”

Reluctantly, the brash speedster said nothing more. But, in the back of her mind she was thinking, Why are you doing this, Fluttershy?! You don't have anything to prove!

Finally, Spike and the mares set off on their quest. They soon reached the base of the mountain where Razer slumbered. Spike looked up to the top.

“Whoa~” Spike said. “That looks like some climb.”

“That it is, Spike,” Twilight said. “For safety reasons, we’ll have to stick together.”

“So much for flying ahead,” Rainbow said.

“With the way you usually handle things,” Twilight reprimanded. “It’s just as well.”

So, some of the ponies started to make their way up the side of the mountain. Twilight looked over the mountain’s map while Rarity couldn’t help but observe something she learned about dragons. "I hear the only thing that sparkles more than a dragon's scales are the jewels they use to build their nests," And an idea soon came to her. "Ooh! Maybe if I'm lucky, I'll be able to convince that dragon to part with some of his less valuable ones. It would save me a lot of hassle having to go out and hunt for gems all the time."

Pinkie saw a chance to playfully tease Rarity, so she said in a gruff voice, “Welcome to my cave, Rarity. Care for a diamond? Well, too bad, because you can’t have one!”

“Well, it’s not like Razer will need them wherever he’s going,” Rarity protested. "I just thought I could do him a favor and lighten his load. I for one would hate having to carry such valuables with me all the time. Far too easy for some no good ruffian to steal them all. At least with me they'd be put to good use."

“Rarity,” Twilight said. “We’re not doing this to get rich or be rude. This is strictly a diplomatic mission. It’s no laughing matter either, Pinkie. Those smoke clouds will block out the sun for 100 years, preventing plantlife from growing. No plants means no food or breathable air for us. This is serious and we need to treat it as such.”

“We’re sorry,” Rarity and Pinkie said together.

“Also, th-that d-didn’t s-sound v-very g-generous of y-you, R-Rarity,” Spike shivered.

Rarity heard the shivering in Spike’s voice. She then removed her scarf and wrapped it around his neck. “I have a feeling you’ll need this more than me, darling.”

“That sounds more like you,” Spike said, the shiver in his voice disappearing as he warmed up. “I was struggling to keep my eyes open on the second halfway here.”

“If you need me to get your hot cocoa open,” Twilight said. “Please don't hesitate to let me know. How are you holding up, Fluttershy?”

But, when Twilight didn't get a reply, she turned around to see that Fluttershy had only just barely started up the mountain. And she was noticeably refusing to fly even though Rainbow Dash was doing so without trouble. "Fluttershy?" The studious unicorn inquired while looking back. "Everything okay?"

“Oh, s-sorry,” Fluttershy said nervously. “It’s just that… the mountain is so tall.”

"Well it is a mountain, you know," Rainbow Dash pointed out. "Last chance to change your mind. You sure you want to do this?"

“Y-yes, I’m sure,” Fluttershy said. “I just need a moment to prepare myself.”

The brash speedster groaned. "Then, what are you waiting for, an invitation?!"

“Ooh!” Pinkie said. “I think I have one in my bag! It must have fallen in when I was getting my supplies.”

“It’s an expression, Pinkie,” Rainbow clarified before turning to Fluttershy. “You can just fly up here. Or should we just go on without you?”

“You know, for Fluttershy’s fillyhood friend and the Element of Loyalty,” Spike remarked. “You’re being kind of a donkey’s behind to her, Rainbow.”

“Donkey’s behind?” Rainbow said.

“Twilight doesn’t like it when I swear.”

“Jackass isn’t a swear,” Rainbow said.

“Either way,” Rarity said. “We don’t understand why you’re being so hard on Fluttershy. Even if her pace isn’t as quick as ours is, this is still a team effort.”

“Eh, I’m not too surprised,” Pinkie said nonchalantly. “Dashie played plenty of pranks on Fluttershy when they were fillies. She told me so herself.”

“I know this is a team effort,” Rainbow said. “A team is only as strong as its weakest link. If Fluttershy isn’t going to back out, she should at least put in the effort to join us.” She directed her attention back to Fluttershy. “So, come on, Fluttershy! Let’s see you flap those wings! Unless you’re scared!”

Fluttershy huffed as she called out. “I’m not scared! I’m not. I’m coming.” She began flapping her wings.

Pinkie encouraged her friend. “Yeah, Fluttershy! You can do it! Flap those wings, girl! Whoo-hoo!”

But, at that very moment there came a mighty roar from further up the mountain. The noise echoed everywhere. And it was so loud and unexpected that it startled poor Fluttershy half to death. As if her body had a mind of its own, her wings suddenly locked up as she opened her eyes and fell to the ground with a thud despite her best efforts to gain altitude.

Applejack saw this and grabbed onto the map. She then made her way down the mountain. Spike jumped off Twilight’s back and landed on Applejack’s tail before she could get far. “What do you think you’re doing?” he questioned.

“Ah’ll need ta borrow the map,” Applejack said. “ah’m goin’ ta find another way up the mountain that’ll be easy fer her.”

“Uh, aren’t you forgetting an easier solution?” Spike said, pointing to Twilight’s horn. “Twilight can just levitate Fluttershy here with her magic.”

“Oh, of course,” Twilight said, practically facehoofing herself. “Come back up, Applejack. I’ll help Fluttershy up here.”

Applejack did so and Twilight focused her magic to levitate Fluttershy up. The friends continued to make their way up the mountain. Rainbow Dash could only frown in disapproval as she observed the whole scene. You're not fooling anypony with that performance, Fluttershy, she thought to herself.

During the climb, Spike started shivering more. “I’m s-s-starting t-t-to w-w-wonder if br-br-bringing m-m-me w-w-was a g-g-good idea,” he shivered. “Th-th-this m-m-mountain air is fr-fr-freezing!” He then let out a yawn and began to look rather lethargic.

Twilight noticed this and she readied a cup of hot cocoa for him. “Drink up, Spike,” she said. “You’ll need it.”

Spike took the cup and sipped the warm chocolatey beverage. “Thanks, Twilight,” he said. “Say, could you bring out the blanket? I don’t want to take any chances.”

“Of course, Spike,” Twilight said, pulling the blanket out of her saddle bag. “That’s why I brought it.” She used her magic to wrap the blanket around Spike’s body before placing him on her back with his own back to it. She then used her magic to tie whatever of the blanket that wasn’t wrapped around the dragon around her barrel to keep him secure. “There. That should do it.”

“Thanks, Twilight,” Spike smiled.

“Aww, how cutesy-wootsy!” Pinkie said. “You look like a bundled up little baby!”

Spike’s mood somewhat soured at that comment. “Don’t patronize me.”

The others continued on even farther, making their way up the mountain at a steady pace. Fluttershy even seemed to keep pace for the sake of seeing the bundled up Spike. They soon reached a ledge, a shortcut towards the top of the mountain.

A small, but, noticeable gap between the edge of two cliff faces presented itself to the six ponies, five of which soon leapt across it with no trouble. But, Fluttershy paused, she was not so easily convinced of the "shortcut." "It's so... wide." She nervously proclaimed.

“It ain’t that wide,” Applejack said. “Ya can just leap over it like we did.”

"I..." Fluttershy began only for another loud roar from further up the mountain to fill her with dread and uncertainty. "I don't know."

Pinkie, however, had an idea to help Fluttershy. “It’s not very far, Fluttershy. It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump!” Pinkie demonstrated the actions she described to Fluttershy. She continued to hop, skip, and jump back and forth until Fluttershy felt sure she could try. “If an earth pony like me could do it, a pegasus like you shouldn’t have any problems.”

“Alright,” Fluttershy said and she readied herself. “A hop…” She got into a hopping position.

“That’s it, Fluttershy,” Rarity said encouragingly.

“Skip…” Fluttershy said as she got into a skipping position. She then jumped. She then opened one of her eyes and saw the trench below her. After a quick yelp, she reached forward. True to Applejack’s word, the gap wasn’t so wide and Fluttershy was in no danger of falling. Somewhat irritated, Twilight levitated Fluttershy over.

The group continued on their way up the mountain. Spike had finished the cocoa in the thermos by then and began to feel warmer on the inside again. Fluttershy nuzzling up to him definitely helped to that effect. “Are you feeling better, Spike?”

“Much, actually,” he admitted.

“Good,” the yellow pegasus sighed in relief. “I wouldn’t want a precious little guy like you getting a cold.”

Spike’s expression went deadpan. “You’re mocking me, aren’t you?”

Fluttershy frantically stepped back, her face blushing red with embarrassment. “Oh, no no no. Not at all.”

“We’re entering dangerous territory, everypony,” Twilight said to the others, her voice in a soft whisper. “The slightest peep could cause an avalanche.”

“Wouldn’t it be safer, though,” Rarity said in a whisper. “To venture to the top on a less dangerous route?”

“Ideally,” Twilight whispered back. “I would’ve planned a safer route before we got here, but, this was the quickest route I could find. I can’t waste any more time planning another route. We need to deal with Razer as soon as possible.”

The friends quietly nodded and carried on through the path as quietly as possible. Rainbow absentmindedly flew through a bunch of tree leaves, knocking two off the branch. One drifted downwards and landed onto Fluttershy’s back, startling the pegasus. In that moment, she forgot about being quiet and started to shout. "AVALA-!"

A horrified Applejack quickly covered Fluttershy’s mouth with a hoof. For a moment, nothing seemed to happen. “That was a close call,” Rainbow said in her normal volume.

After that, there was a low rumble which grew progressively louder. They all looked up to see a rockslide approaching them. “Way to go, Rainbow,” Spike dryly commented before directing his attention to Twilight. “Any chance you have enough magic to redirect those rocks?” Twilight shook her head no. “Didn’t think so. RUN!!!”

The others did not hesitate to run, Rainbow even maneuvered through the sky to avoid the falling rocks. They managed to get through the ordeal unharmed, though, the dust kicked up left them coughing up a storm.

“Is everypony okay?” Twilight said, a cough in her throat.

“Feeling stupid, but, fine otherwise,” Rainbow said. “That avalanche is on me.”

“I’m partially to blame, too,” Fluttershy said. “I felt something touch my back and I thought it was the start of the avalanche.”

“You were touched by a leaf,” Spike pointed out. “I saw it fall from the branch Rainbow flew through.”

“Oh,” Fluttershy said, blushing with embarrassment.

“Well, now, we have this pile of dirt to climb over,” Twilight said.

“Actually,” Spike said. “We can just go through it if I dig a tunnel.”

“That might not be a bad idea,” Applejack said. “N’, all that effort o’ yers will help ya ta stay warm.”

“And my coat and Rarity’s scarf,” Spike said as he freed himself from the bundle. He then began digging into the dirt, shoveling clawful after clawful of dirt away. He made sure the tunnel was big enough for the six mares in his presence. He managed to dig all the way through within a few minutes, visibly exhausted from the effort afterwards. “I… did… it…” he said between breaths.

“Thank you, Spike,” Twilight gently said, levitating him back onto her back. “You put in a lot of effort, so, please rest on my back.” Twilight also made sure to levitate the blanket and Rarity’s scarf back so that they wouldn't get lost.

“I must say,” Rarity said. “Spike’s quite skilled at digging. I can only imagine his hauls after gem hunts.”

“He’s never actually gone on a gem hunt before,” Twilight said. “He usually gets gems from stores. Those were NOT cheap.”

Rarity was genuinely surprised. “Perhaps I can take him on gem hunts sometime,” she offered.

Twilight grew suspicious. “You’re not just using him to dig up gems without getting dirty, are you?”

“Of course not,” Rarity said. “That would be terrible. Rest assured, I have every intention of compensating him for a job well done.”

“Hmm,” Twilight said, still not completely certain. “Alright, but, if I allow this and Spike tells me of something off from you, I won’t allow further gem hunts with the two of you. Do you understand?”

“Perfectly,” Rarity nodded.

“Thank you,” Twilight said. “Now, we have to keep going. We’re almost to the top cave.”

The mares reached the top. By that point, Spike woke from his nap. “Are we there yet?”

“Yep,” Applejack said. “We just got here.”

“Alright,” Spike said as he checked one of Twilight’s saddlebags. “Ah, here it is.” He pulled out what looked like a sword with a purple blade.

“My word,” Rarity exclaimed looking over the sword. “Isn’t that the scale that Stephen Magnet gave us?”

Spike nodded. “I made it into this sword using a bunch of sticks and duct tape.”

“How incredible,” Rarity said. “And so creative.”

“But, wouldn’t that be an act o’ aggression?” Applejack asked.

“Don’t worry,” Spike said. “I’m only using it to light my way in the dark cave.”

“Ah, that makes sense,” Applejack said with a sigh of relief.

“I’m going in alone to see if my Draketongue can reach him,” Spike said.

“Be careful, Spike,” Twilight said. “This’ll be your first time meeting another dragon, so, be polite. And, if you need me or one of us to come in with you, please don't hesitate to tell us.”

Spike nodded and entered the cave, holding his makeshift sword like a torch.

Inside the cave, Spike felt warmer as he went deeper into it. Soon, he found himself looking at Razer. He was indeed quite large with red scales and reddish-pink spines. He was snoozing presumably quite happily atop a huge pile of treasure, pausing only occasionally to scratch his stomach with a huge claw.

Whoa~ Spike said in his head. That gives me some kind of clue as to what I might look like when I grow up. But, knowing of his responsibility, Spike cleared his throat. He began speaking in a strangled, guttural roar. The larger dragon seemed to stir.

Outside the cave, the ponies overheard the conversation. “What’s Spike saying, Twilight?” Rainbow asked.

“It should translate from Draketongue to ‘Greetings,’” Twilight said quietly. “Spike should be explaining the situation to the dragon as well.”

A louder, less strangled roar could be heard echoing through the cave.

“That must be Razer answerin’,” Applejack said softly.

Twilight looked a bit confused. “That one’s a bit tougher to translate,” she admitted. “He either said, ‘take back what you said about my mom,’ or ‘I have a brother named Tom.’”

Suddenly, Spike was sent out of the cave and got thrown against a tree outside it. He was visibly shaken and the top of his knitted cap was completely burnt, revealing singe marks on the top of his head spikes.

“Spike!” Shouted the mares in alarm. They quickly rushed to his aid.

“Oh, Spike,” Rarity said worriedly. “What happened?!”

“I don’t know!” Spike cried. “I just told him what was going on and he breathed fire over my head! Then, he said something about insulting his mom or something! I asked him what he meant and he flicked me out of the cave! It was very upsetting!”

Fluttershy wasted no time in dressing Spike’s wounds, since she was the one with the medical supplies available.

“Everything’ll be alright,” Pinkie tried to reassure him.

“Alright?!” Spike snapped, pointing to his singed head spikes. “You call this alright?! My scales are supposed to be fireproof, but, these ones got burnt! Nothing makes sense anymore!”

“I think I can understand how this happened,” Twilight said. “There must have been a misunderstanding and adult dragon fire must be much hotter and stronger.” She sighed. “Clearly, the Draketongue I taught you is too different from proper Draketongue. Looks like we’ll have to resort to plan B.”

“What’s the plan, Twilight?” asked Rainbow.

“Rainbow Dash, you'll keep busy using your wings to help clear the smoke," the lavender unicorn explained.

“Right,” Rainbow said.

Twilight went on explaining her plan. "Rarity and Pinkie Pie, I don't anticipate charm being necessary. So you two will be in charge of a distraction in case we need to retreat or buy time."

Pinkie didn’t really give a verbal answer. Instead, she shook around a rubber chicken she apparently packed in her saddle bag. This left both unicorns looking confused. “Are you sure making us a distraction is a good idea?” Rarity asked.

“Trust me,” Pinkie said. “I have a flawless distraction technique.”

“I wouldn’t really call that flaw–” Spike began, before noticing he had a cupcake in his claw. “Where’d this come from?”

“You’re welcome~” Pinkie replied in a singsong voice before turning to Rarity. “Told you it works.”

“Ooh,” Rarity said. “She is good.”

"Right," Twilight blinked, deciding it best not to question the party pony for the time being. She instead turned to Applejack as she told the farm mare. "Applejack, you've got a lot of apples and some impressive rodeo equipment from what I hear. So, you'll stand by in case we're attacked and need to defend ourselves."

“Ah will,” Applejack said. She emphasized her point by pulling out two apples (one red and one green) and using her back legs to kick them hard against a nearby rock, making them splat ominously.

“And Fluttershy,” Twilight said. “I’ll need you to come with me. Since you’re a critter whisperer, you can possibly communicate with Razer.”

Fluttershy suddenly dropped the gauze she was using to cover Spike’s burns upon hearing that.

“Fluttershy?” Spike said.

"I... I can't go in that cave! I just can't!" Fluttershy declared as she seemed to be on the verge of tears.

"What? Now, yer afraid o’ caves er somethin'?!" Applejack groaned. "It's a bit late ta be tellin' us that now!"

However, Rainbow Dash seemed to realize what the problem actually was as she let out a long sigh. "I was afraid of this."

The others, sans Fluttershy, turned to face Rainbow Dash.

“What do you mean, Rainbow?” Twilight asked. “Is there something you know that we don’t?”

"Yeah, of course I do! You don't know Fluttershy like I do! The two of us, we've been friends since we were fillies in Cloudsdale," Rainbow explained. "We met at flight camp and got our Cutie Marks at around the same time. And growing up in Cloudsdale meant we got to know each other really well: What we were good at, what we struggled with, even what we were afraid of. And Fluttershy, well she has an alphabetical list of things she’s afraid of. But, if there's one thing she's afraid of more than anything, it's dragons."

Pinkie Pie protested. "What are you talking about, Dashie? That's ridiculous. Fluttershy can't possibly be afraid of dragons. She hangs around Spike like it's no big deal."

Rainbow’s already thin patience was stretched even thinner. “Well, go ahead and ask her yourself! It’ll only prove my point.” She turned to Fluttershy. "Go on, tell them already! You should've told them a long time ago! I can't believe it's had to come to this!"

Fluttershy was scared, but, she knew Rainbow was right. So, she took a deep inhale and told the others the truth. “It’s true… I am scared of dragons. I’m not afraid of Spike because he’s young and kind. But, I am scared of huge, gigantic, terrifying, enormous, teeth-gnashing, sharp-scale having, horn-wearing, smoke-snoring, could eat a pony in one bite, totally all grown-up dragons! I was exploring the forest one day as a filly and went into what I thought was a cave. It turned out to be a dragon’s mouth.”

Twilight could hardly believe what she was hearing. “But, you deal with all kinds of animals everyday!”

“Yes,” Fluttershy said. “Because they’re not dragons.”

Spike was getting angry at this. “What about Manny Roar?” he asked. “You walked right up to him like it was nothing!”

“Yes,” Fluttershy said. “Because he wasn’t a dragon.”

That seemed to be the wrong thing to say to Spike as he grit his teeth while his face turned red with anger and smoke escaped his nostrils. “He had WINGS LIKE A DRAGON!” he snapped. “SO, BEING A FULL DRAGON IS A PROBLEM TO YOU JUST BECAUSE OF ONE BAD EXPERIENCE YOU HAD?!”

Hearing what Spike was shouting made Fluttershy realize her mistake. She was alarmed at this and she only managed to squeak timidly. Spike’s anger became more tranquil as a tear welled up in his left eye. “I should’ve known,” he said in a voice completely devoid of emotion. “You’re just like those elitists back in Canterlot. Looking down on me because I’m a dragon.” He then looked to Rainbow. “I take back that donkey’s behind comment, Rainbow.”

Hearing this hurt Fluttershy even more. She was upset at herself for her fear, but, she felt even worse because she hurt Spike’s feelings.

“You’re right, Spike…” Fluttershy said sadly, her voice breaking. “I really am a terrible friend. I should have been more fair towards you and other dragons.” Spike didn’t even acknowledge her. He just turned his back to her with his arms crossed and his nose to the sky. This revealed that his coat had been burnt as well, revealing a small burn on it and some of his back spikes bent out of shape from when he hit the tree.

Applejack decided to get back to the previous topic. “If ya were so scared o’ dragons, why didn’t ya tell us before we hiked all the way up here?”

“I knew you and Princess Celestia were counting on me,” Fluttershy explained. “And if I said anything about it, I would have let you down. I brought medical supplies in case any of us got hurt so I could still be useful. I was afraid to do so… but, I did something much worse than let all of you down… I hurt Spike’s feelings because of this.” Her voice began to break. “None of my medical supplies can fix emotional damage.”

Rarity saw fit to point out. "Darling, forcing yourself to do something you don't want to do isn't necessarily brave. It would've been much braver for you to come right out and tell us you were scared. We would've understood."

"It would've saved me a lot of trouble," Twilight added with a groan. "But, it's too late to change my plan. We're up here now and we have a job to do. Every minute we waste standing around here is another minute that Razer’s smoke has to spread all over Equestria. So please, I know you haven't been doing your best up until now, but, for the sake of all of us and all of Equestria, can you at least try to be brave and help me out? Please?"

"If it helps sweeten the deal, I'll throw you the biggest hero party Equestria's ever seen when it's all over," Pinkie Pie added in hopeful encouragement.

“I’m sorry,” said the tearful pegasus. “I just can’t. I see now that I was just being stupid. I don't know why I came up here. Just forget about me, you'll all figure out some way to solve the problem without me. I’ll just treat Spike’s injuries. At least then, I’ll be doing something useful.” She sadly trotted to Spike to tend to his injuries, though, the young dragon tried to get away from her. “Spike, I don’t blame you for being mad at me and I don’t expect you to forgive me for what I said, but, these injuries alone will take a long time to heal. If you let me dress them for you, they’ll heal much faster.”

At this, Spike stopped. “Fine,” he said coldly. “But, don’t expect me to be grateful, dragophobe.”

Fluttershy winced at this remark. Knowing how much she hurt Spike emotionally, she felt she deserved that. Once this is over, she thought to herself. I’m going to try to get over my fear of dragons for his sake. I owe him that much at least. Despite her remorse, she continued to tend to the young dragon while the other five mares took watching the scene just as hard as her.

“Oh, dear,” Twilight said sadly, feeling bad for both Spike and Fluttershy. “Well, I guess I have no choice, but, to do what I can.” She took a deep breath and entered the cave. She cautiously approached Razer as he was trying to go back to sleep, but, once he saw her, this caught his attention. Twilight herself was taken aback by the sheer size of this dragon. Suddenly, I’m not so confident Applejack will be able to do much against this behemoth, she internally chastised herself. She cleared her throat. “Do you, by any chance, happen to know Ponish?” she nervously asked.

The red dragon responded in a voice that sounded similar to the noises he made when Spike tried speaking to him, but, despite sounding a bit different from Ponish, could be understood better, albeit roughly. “What if I do?”

“Well,” Twilight said, gaining any semblance of composure. “My name is Twilight Sparkle and my friends and I were tasked with telling you that your smoke-snoring is causing smoke clouds to obstruct the sun. We don’t have any problem with you sleeping when you need it, but, if you wouldn't mind finding some other place to sleep where this won’t be an issue, we will appreciate it greatly.”

Razer looked at Twilight with a flat expression. “I have traveled thousands of miles gathering the treasures you see before you,” he said in his semi-foreign voice. “I am naturally very exhausted as a result. This is not helped by a miniscule whelp insulting my mother and an audacious unicorn like yourself policing me for a medical condition I have.”

“I can explain Spike,” Twilight said. “I hatched him from an egg when I was entering magic school and his egg was my task for my entrance exam. As such, he grew up around ponies and isn’t familiar with genuine Draketongue. I tried teaching him as best I could, but-”

Razer cut her off with a yawn. “Spare me your life story, pony,” he said. “I’m too weary for it.” He then laid back down on his hoard. “Leave me in peace or what happened to that whelp could happen to you. And unlike that whelp, you don’t have protective scales against my low flames that’ll be replaced with more resilient ones after being heated to their limits.”

Twilight heeded Razer’s warning and shuffled out of the cave in retreat. Just in time as the large dragon snored a large burst of smoke. The ponies right outside the cave coughed before Rainbow used her wings to disperse the smoke.

“So much for that,” Rainbow said.

“And apparently, Razer just used a low flame against Spike,” Twilight said.

“That was a low flame?!” Applejack exclaimed. “We’re dealin’ with a mighty powerful dragon here.”

“He also said something about getting more resilient scales after the ones Spike has get heated to their limits,” Twilight said.

“That explains the singing,” Rarity noted. “I suppose it’d be more accurate to say that Spike’s not so much fireproof as he is fire-resistant, meaning he still has a limit.” She then turned her attention to Pinkie. “Well, Pinkie. I suppose it’s time we took a more careful approach on our part.”

“Like what?” Pinkie asked.

“That, I’m not certain of,” Rarity answered. “But, we must come up with something quickly.” She then thought about what she said on the way up. “Well, I suppose I may as well try charm. I’m not certain it’ll work, but, I haven’t a better idea.”

Twilight conceded and allowed it. “Go ahead, then. Besides, there is a chance it will work.”

Rarity wasted no time and strutted up to Razer. The titanic dragon’s sheer size compared to her made her lose confidence in her plan. Well, she thought to herself. I’ve come this far. I may as well go for broke. She cleared her throat. “Oh, Mr. Razer~” she said, hoping she sounded more confident than she felt.

Razer heard Rarity’s sultry call and this caught his attention. “Hmm?” He looked at her and grew annoyed. “I suppose you’re going to lecture me or insult my mother?”

“Why, no,” Rarity said in a sultry tone. “It’s just that dragons of your magnitude are very rare around here and I couldn’t resist the chance to get a glimpse of one. And, I must say, I’m quite impressed by what I see before me.” Razer raised an eyebrow, as if asking her to get to the point. Good, the unicorn thought while using her Mystic Eyes to take note of the details. He’s at least willing to listen. I just have to play my cards right. “Terribly sorry to interrupt your beauty sleep, but, I personally think that you should skip it and go out into the world, showing all manner of creatures your beautiful and impressive scales.” Razer seemed to be flattered by the unicorn’s comments. “Splendid. And, don’t worry about your horde. I’ll make sure it’s safe from any thieves who are willing to partake in the riches.” That was Rarity’s big mistake. Razer growled and protected his treasure from this intruding mare.

“You think you could fool me, thief?!” he declared.

“No,” Rarity stammered. “That wasn’t my intent!” She saw Razer lift his free claw and immediately beat a hasty retreat.

Outside the cave, the others were surprised after hearing what Rarity said. Applejack groaned in frustration. “What in Tartarus were ya thinkin’?! Ugh! Listen ta the question! If ya were thinkin’, this wouldn’t’ve happened!”

Rarity sighed sadly. “I suppose the sight of the treasure was enough to blind me from the objective. I do apologize.”

Twilight stepped up to her. “You were supposed to convince him to leave, NOT SWIPE HIS TREASURE FOR YOURSELF! Now, we’re right back at square one!”

“Not if I have anything to say about it,” said Pinkie. The others turned to face her, but, she was dressed to the nines in all sorts of ridiculous present decorations. “Good thing I packed my birthday suit.”

“Darling,” Rarity said once she was out of her funk. “You look ridiculous. More so than usual.”

“I know,” Pinkie said. “That’s the point. Sharing a laugh is the fastest way to get someone to be your friend. And once that dragon's my friend, it'll be a piece of cake to get him to leave. Just watch!" She proceeded to stroll right into the cave before anypony could even think of stopping her. But, all she managed to say to the dragon was "Hi." before there came a series of loud roars and crashes.

Pinkie hobbled out of the cave, her “birthday suit” in shambles. “Apparently,” Pinkie said sheepishly. “He doesn’t like laughing… or sharing, for that matter. Who knew?”

Seeing this display was enough to cause Rainbow Dash to lose her patience (not that she'd had much to begin with). "All right, that does it!" She roared at the top of her lungs. "We've tried asking nicely, turning on the charm, and... whatever it is Pinkie was doing."

Pinkie could simply respond by blowing her now damaged party horn.

Ignoring the "feedback" from one of her friends, Rainbow Dash just went on to say. "We've wasted enough time here! If that dragon doesn't leave willingly, we'll just have to make him leave the hard way! Get out of my way!" And before anypony could even think of stopping her, she zoomed right into the cave and came face to face with Razer in all his scale covered glory. "Hey, Mr. Tall and Ugly!" She bellowed. "I got a message for you: It's time for you to leave! So get out!" And then she turned around and delivered a swift kick to the dragon's nostrils/muzzle. Rainbow turned to face him again, only to be met with a smoky sneeze. When the smoke cleared, Rainbow saw that Razer wasn’t hurt, but, just angered and he growled lowly at Rainbow. I think I just made this guy’s sh*t list, the speedster internally panicked. “Uh, sorry?” she said, losing any nerve she had.

Razer gave a powerful roar, the force of which propelled Rainbow backwards into the ragtag group of heroes. They were sent careening into a giant rock, with the force of the sudden jolt collapsing the top half of the rock. “Yep,” the speedster said. “Definitely made that guy’s sh*t list.”

Behind the aforementioned rock were Fluttershy and Spike. She was still dressing his wounds, though he was still clearly hurt and sulking. Once she saw that she was no longer obscured, Fluttershy saw the situation. She saw her friends collapsed and hurt and she saw the dragon looking angrily upon them. Seeing the sight of her friends hurt by the bigger dragon, something snapped inside her.

Her brows furrowed as she said in a soft, yet angry voice. “How dare you?” Her response went unacknowledged. So, she rose her voice. Unlike previous attempts, she was actually shouting this time. “How dare you?!” Her moderate cyan eyes seemed to glow.

Her friends took witness as she flew up to the very muzzle of the large red dragon, completely in shock that the normally timid Fluttershy was actually angry. Even Spike, for his grumpy mood, couldn’t help but notice the sight. Even more shocking was the fact that Razer seemed intimidated by a pony that he clearly dwarfed in size.

“Now, listen here, Mr. Razer,” She snapped. “Just because you’re big, it doesn’t mean you get to be a bully! You may have huge teeth and sharp scales and snore smoke and breath fire, but, you do not… I repeat, you do NOT… HURT MY FRIENDS, whether they be a pony OR another dragon! You got that?” During the rant, Fluttershy’s eyes glowed brightly.

Razer himself was at a loss for words. No one had spoken to him that way since he was a hatchling. Razer could do nothing, but, manage a small, uncomfortable whimper in the intense gaze of the little yellow pegasus with glowing eyes.

“Well?” Fluttershy interrogated. “What do you have to say for yourself about all of this?”

“That rainbow one kicked me in a weak spot,” Razer said weakly. “I have cracked scales there.”

“And I apologize for her that she did that,” Fluttershy said, her eyes still aglow. “But, that’s no excuse to be mean. Two wrongs don’t make a right. And on top of that, you haven’t been the nicest to my friends and they didn’t attack you. At least, not intentionally. They were trying to be nice and get you to leave. You need to understand that your smoke-snoring is causing a problem. It could not only hurt others, but, possibly yourself, too.” She gestured to the smoke he made. “Your smoke will keep sunlight from reaching plants. Even if you don’t eat them, they’re responsible for making the air you breathe. Most of the plants in Equestria need the sunlight to grow. They can’t survive smoke blocking out the sun for 100 years. By then, not even flying creatures like us will be able to breathe the air. Do you really want to wake up unable to breathe the air?”

“No…” Razer said shamefully. “But, I-”

“Don’t you ‘But, I,’ me, mister!” Fluttershy interrupted. “Pack up your things and go somewhere your smoke won’t bother anyone.”

“Y-yes, ma’am,” Razer said, meekly nodding. With no further argument, Razer began shoveling his horde into some loose scales on his sides, said scales functioning like pockets. Spike and the ponies are surprised by such a sight.

“I didn’t know dragons could do that,” Pinkie said.

“Neither did I,” Spike admitted.

Soon, Razer had his horde completely packed.

“Thank you,” Fluttershy said. “Now, don’t you have something to say to my friends?”

Razer faced the others. “I’m sorry,” he said. “I’m normally more calm and collected than that. But, when I get tired, I get cranky.”

“It’s okay,” Fluttershy said in her gentle voice. “You’re not a bad dragon, you just made a bad decision and that happens to everyone. Believe me, I know.” At that last sentence, she directed her gaze at Spike, who was too far away to see her properly.

“But, I still have a medical condition that makes me smoke when I snore,” Razer said.

“Do you have doctors in your home?” Fluttershy asked.

“Not particularly, no,” Razer admitted. “Dragons don’t typically get sick often enough to justify them.”

“That is a problem,” Fluttershy said. “If need be, I did pack medical supplies. I may not be a doctor, but, I can certainly look you over.” She flew down to get some, her eyes still glowing. The others noticed that the yellow pegasus wasn’t even blinking.

“Whoa, Flutters~!” Pinkie gasped. “Your eyes are all glowy!”

Fluttershy ignored the comment and went about checking Razer. After a quick examination, she gives Razer a bottle of medical throat spray. “I may not know anything about dragons, but, I know a sore throat when I see one. This should help with that.”

“Thank you,” Razer said gratefully. He then sprayed some in his mouth before flying off.

After he left, Fluttershy landed on the ground and finally closed her eyes as the others went up to her.

“Okay,” Rainbow exclaimed in surprise. “Who are you and what have you done with Fluttershy?!”

“I’m still me,” Fluttershy said without opening her eyes.

“Really,” Rainbow said. “But, you just flew up to that dragon like he was a timid little squirrel or something!”

“It just… happened… I guess,” Fluttershy said quietly, still not opening her eyes.

“But, how?” Rainbow asked. “And what was with the glowing eyes?”

“Well,” Fluttershy admitted. “Rarity’s not the only one here with Mystic Eyes. Mine are the Mystic Eyes of Submission.”

“Oh, my,” Rarity said. She then used her magic to levitate a dropper of eye drops out of Fluttershy’s medical supplies bag. “If you need me to apply eye drops, please let me know, darling.”

“Eye drops?” Rainbow questioned.

“Some Mystic Eyes are said to strain the eyes of the user if their powers are used excessively,” Rarity explained.

“That’s part of why I don’t really like using the Stare so much,” Fluttershy said as she finally opened her eyes, revealing them to be bloodshot with shrunken pupils and irises.

“Whoa!” Applejack said. “That does look mighty painful.”

“It is,” Fluttershy admitted. “When my Mystic Eyes are active, they have to be kept open for there to be any effect. Even blinking can turn them off. The longer I keep them open, the drier my eyes get. If my eyes get too dry, I can’t see for a while.”

“Ouch,” Rainbow winced.

“Well,” Twilight said. “We understand the importance of your Mystic Eyes, but, we won’t try to force you to use them if there’s no need for it.”

“Another reason I don’t like using the Stare is because it basically forces whoever I make eye contact with to lose their nerve,” Fluttershy explained. “It just doesn’t feel right to me. So, I only use it as an absolute last resort.”

“We understand,” Twilight said sympathetically. Rarity used the eye drops to help with Fluttershy’s eye.

“After hearing all that,” Rainbow said. “I can se—” She quickly corrected herself. “—uh, understand why you don’t use it much.”

“It’s okay, Rainbow Dash,” Fluttershy said once her eyes were mostly better. “Even if there is a little bit of a sting, it’s still nothing compared to the pain I felt at hurting my friend’s feelings.”

Spike suddenly remembered that he was upset with Fluttershy. “I won’t lie, that stare was impressive,” he admitted. “But, I’m still mad at you, dragophobe.”

“I don’t blame you,” Fluttershy said. “I said to myself as I was healing you that once this adventure was over, I would make an effort to overcome my fear of dragons. It won’t be an easy thing, but, if it’s to understand my friend better, then, I would do anything to make things right.” She felt around for Spike since her eyes were still healing and when she felt him, she nuzzled his left cheek. “I know that I hurt you—”

“That’s putting it lightly,” Spike grumbled. “You were the nicest to me when I first came to Ponyville and that felt like a HUGE betrayal.”

“—But, that’s a mistake I won’t make again,” she continued. “Today, I learned that not all dragons are as bad as we thought since Razer was at least willing to listen. Even if you never forgive me, even if you never trust me, my offer of friendship will be good no matter what.” She hugged the little dragon close, being very careful of his injuries.

Spike felt Fluttershy’s gentle embrace and he listened to her genuine apology. He came to understand that she was just as hurt as he was and admittedly, he said some hurtful stuff, too. So, he gently hugged Fluttershy in return. “I never really liked holding a grudge,” he said. “But, I need time to heal.”

“I understand,” Fluttershy said.

“Hate to break apart a sentimental moment here,” Rainbow said. “But, I’m going to round up the pegasi so we can clear away this smoke.”

“That’s the first good idea you’ve had all day,” Spike said, unable to resist a playful jab.

Rainbow chose to ignore that and she took off.

At the Golden Oak Library, Spike was ready with a quill and parchment. Twilight saw this and she began to tell Spike what to write.

“Dear Princess Celestia,
I am happy to report that Razer has left our side of Equestria. I am also happy to report that it was Fluttershy who convinced the dragon to leave peacefully. This adventure taught me that we must all put our fears to the side in order to do what’s right. Fluttershy learned this lesson as well herself, promising she would overcome her own fear of dragons to be a better friend to Spike.

Always your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle”

Spike set the scroll ablaze and sent it on its way. He then let out a yawn. “Is it okay if I take a nap to warm up?”

“Spike,” Twilight said sweetly. “You don’t need to ask me that. If you’re in need of a nap, you should always tell me.”

Spike headed to the basket at the end of Twilight’s bed and tucked himself in and Twilight headed outside to see the smoke being dispersed by the pegasi with Rainbow leading them.

“Well,” Spike said. “Rainbow kept her word.” He then yawned and cozied up, drifting to sleep almost immediately.

Back outside, Rainbow landed near her five friends after the smoke was dispersed.

“Whew,” Rainbow said, wiping the sweat from her brow. “Clearing smoke is a bit more effort than clouds.”

“Sorry I couldn’t help,” said Fluttershy, who had just recently regained the use of her eyes.

“Don’t worry about it,” Rainbow said. “Your eyes were still recovering.”

“I really want to make it up to Spike,” Fluttershy said. “Maybe meeting his mom will help.”

“There’s a slight problem there, Fluttershy,” Twilight said.

“What do you mean?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well, I don’t know where Spike’s mom is,” Twilight explained. “He was given to me as an egg. I don’t know who found him or where.”

“Spike’s… an orphan?” Fluttershy asked.

“We don’t know that for certain,” Twilight said, sensing feelings of guilt and worry from Fluttershy. “Hopefully, we’ll meet her some day.”

Fluttershy headed into the library. “Looks like Fluttershy’s maternal instincts kicked in,” Rarity observed.

“That don’t surprise me none,” Applejack said. “She’s often lookin’ after li’l critters, ‘specially if’n they’re babies..It’d be easier listin’ the critters she won’t mother.”

“Given the circumstances,” Twilight said. “That might come off as desperate.”

In the library, Fluttershy found Spike asleep in his bed. She didn’t want to wake him, so, she was quietly looking around, thinking of a way to make things right for the young dragon. She gently stepped up to him and gave him the mother of all comfort hugs. “I’m sorry for what I said, Spike,” she whispered. “I know this sounds desperate, but, until the day we meet your real mother, I would like to fill in for her.” She gently kissed his forehead. “But, only if you’ll let me. If you do, I promise to do the best job I can.”

In Spike’s sleeping state, he could still hear and feel things that were happening around him. A warm smile grew on his face, even when he slept. He subconsciously returned Fluttershy’s embrace and nuzzled her chest. “Can I get that in writing?”

Fluttershy smiled sweetly and whispered, “Yes. I’ll even let you go at your own pace if you like.”

In his sleep, Spike said, “Thank you.”

End of chapter.

Author's Notes:

Here's another chapter.

In my take, I decided to have Spike come along with the Mane 6 and leave Fluttershy's animal friends with someone more qualified to care for them.

I also gave the dragon a name, which, according to the wiki, is Razer.

To Late_Night, DON'T CALL SPIKE A WHINGING BITCH HERE!!! He had perfectly legit reasons to be afraid. First, he was facing another dragon for the first time in his life. Second, he was slightly singed, which also never happened before. Third, Razer was SEVERAL magnitudes bigger than Spike and the little dragon unwittingly insulted the bigger one's mother. Do you honestly think a baby could overpower a fully grown adult? It's called CHAR-ACT-ER DE-VEL-OP-MENT! That's the whole point.

Like SuperPinkBrony12, I made Rainbow more sensitive to Fluttershy and used his idea for why the Royal Guard wasn't considered.

Also, I basically eliminated Fluttershy's role as the Load and had Twilight use her magic to get Fluttershy moving faster. Seriously, last chapter, Twilight levitated and Ursa Minor and a water tower full of milk. It couldn't be that hard to lift Fluttershy, who's smaller than either of those.

I also came up with an explanation for the Stare and consequences for using it. Said consequences are one reason why Bats! won't be adapted. The rest of the Mane 6 pressuring Fluttershy to using the Stare despite knowing that it strains her eyes would make them bad friends.

This chapter marks the beginning of a meaningful relationship between Spike and Fluttershy.

If you're enjoying the story so far, contact me via private messages if you'd like to help make future chapters.

Chapter 8: Look Before You Sleep (S1:E8)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 8: Look Before You Sleep

It had been three days since the Razer incident. In that time, the Ponyville Weather Team had put up notices of a storm planned to make up for the scheduled sprinkle accidentally skipped a week prior. So, ponies were hard at work preparing for the storm. Pegasi were putting up clouds in the sky, while Earth ponies and unicorns had work making sure that branches didn’t fall on anyone. Fluttershy helped by herding animals to shelters where they’d be safe. Of all the ponies, Rarity was doing the least amount of work. She put the least amount of effort into pruning the branches and instead tried making beautiful creations.

"Ah, simply beautiful," she said to herself. "And whoever said nature couldn't be pretty?"

At that moment, however, Applejack came along and hoisted the branch down onto the ground. She looked at Rarity in annoyance. “Ah told ya ta prune them branches, not purty ‘em up, ya cotton-head!”

“Well!” Rarity huffed indignantly, clearly not happy with Applejack’s remark. “All of this ‘pruning’ would make a mess of the town square!”

“Ya think this is a big mess?!” Applejack said. “Y’all ain’t even SEEN a mess yet! ‘Cause ya were lollygaggin’, the storm’ll make an even bigger mess, leavin’ more fer Ponyville ta pick up after it dies down n’ everypony’ll hate ya ‘cause ya didn’t help with the prep work.”

Rarity considered Applejack’s words. Rarity didn’t like the way Applejack said them, but, she did know she was right. Though, she had difficulty admitting it. “I simply cannot imagine why the pegasi would schedule a dreadful downpour for this evening and ruin what could’ve been a glorious sunny day.”

“Think more practical-like,” Applejack said, annoyance still present in her voice. “‘Member when Rainbow said that the Pegasus Weather Team missed a scheduled sprinkle last week? They need a doozy o’ a downpour ta make up fer lost time. ‘Sides, no rain means no purty flowers fer inspiration.”

“I must’ve missed the memo,” Rarity said as Applejack rolled her eyes. “But, I’ve been very busy.”

“This ain’t no time fer excuses,” Applejack said, rolling her eyes again. “If’n ya want ta be useful, just use yer fancy shmancy magic ta prune them trees ‘stead o’ failin’ ta be the Element o’ Generosity again.”

Rarity sighed deeply. “Yes, yes,” she said. “I’ll get right on that.”

No sooner had Rarity started than a clap of thunder was heard. She yelped with fright. Applejack groaned. “Let me guess,” she said. “Ya didn’t bring no umbrella?”

“I would have,” Rarity objected. “But, I was hurried out of my home before I could grab one.”

Applejack looked at Rarity while raising her left eyebrow. “Do ah have ta use the Eyes o’ Truth on ya?”

“That is the truth!” Rarity said. “Rainbow Dash burst through my door and said, and I quote, ‘Get your marshmallow butt in gear and help prepare for the storm! Applejack will give you your job.’ She then proceeded to drag me by the tail.”

Applejack conceded and lowered her eyebrow. “That does sound like somethin’ Rainbow would do.” A lightning bolt suddenly struck the tree behind them, splitting it in two. “Ah reckon we find some shelter ‘fore continuin’ this here debate.”

“On that,” Rarity said with a shiver. “I can agree. And fast.”

Applejack and Rarity quickly made their way out of the park. They knew it wasn't much of a safe haven. They raced into town as the winds continued to pick up and the rain began to pour harder and harder. Applejack struggled to hold onto her stetson hat.

“Hello~” Applejack called. “Is anypony out n’ about?”

"Hey, Applejack, Rarity! Over here!" a voice shouted. Applejack and Rarity turned to look and saw that the voice was coming from Twilight Sparkle. She was standing at the entrance to Sugarcube Corner.

“Twilight,” Rarity said in a relieved manner. “Thank goodness you’re here!”

She and Applejack ran up to Twilight and inside Sugarcube Corner. Once they were in, Twilight promptly locked the saloon doors.

“Not fer nothin’, Twi,” Applejack said. “But, what're ya doin’ here at Sugarcube Corner? Shouldn’t ya be at the Golden Oak Library?”

“And where’s little Spike?” Rarity asked. “Did Fluttershy rally him to help with the animals?”

“No, actually,” Twilight explained. “Princess Celestia agreed to watch over him as he’s having his weekly therapy session with Princess Luna. Dr. Fauna is helping Fluttershy with the animals along with other volunteers.”

“Weekly therapy sessions?” Rarity asked.

“They’re relatively new after… you know what,” Twilight explained.

Rarity and Applejack had grim expressions, for they knew what that meant. “Every night for the last three days,” Twilight continued. “Spike said he’s been seeing Princess Luna in his dreams. He said she’s been telling him to consider counseling. Well, that’s what I managed to figure out. I won’t lie, Spike’s been repeating the princess’ outdated dialect and half the words are lost on me.”

“Ah see,” Applejack said. “N’, yer here at Sugarcube Corner, ‘cause…”

Before Twilight could answer, Pinkie Pie popped up from what seemed to be nowhere. "Oh, I'm so glad you two could come. I tried to pass out invitations, but, you weren't home. I'm so, so, so glad you were able to make it! We're going to have lots and lots of fun," she said in one breath.

“Whoa,” Applejack said. “Simmer down now.”

“Invitations to what, exactly?” Rarity asked.

“Twilight’s first slumber party,” Pinkie said.

“That’s right,” Twilight said. “While I did have sleepovers sometimes with my foalsitter when I was a filly, I had always dreamed of having a slumber party.” She levitated a book out of her saddlebag. "So, this morning, while I was cleaning the library, I stumbled across this book called Slumber 101: All You Ever Wanted To Know About Slumber Parties But Were Afraid To Ask. And it gave me the idea to host my own slumber party. I talked with Pinkie Pie and she decided we'd host it right here at Sugarcube Corner."

“Hmm,” Rarity said. “That is an intriguing idea. A slumber party would take our minds off of this dreadful downpour.”

“Long as ya don’t fuss ‘bout every li’l thing,” Applejack agreed.

Twilight cleared her throat. “I would appreciate it if you two put aside your vitriol for one night. I want to fondly remember my first slumber party.”

“It won’t be easy,” Rarity said. “But, we shall do what we can.”

“Ya won’t have ta worry 'bout us, Twi,” Applejack said.

“I certainly hope so,” Twilight said.

“So, Twilight,” Pinkie said. “What does the book say we do first?”

Twilight checked the book. “Let’s see. It says that we’re supposed to do makeovers.”

“Ooh!” Pinkie said. “I’ll ask Mrs. Cake if we can borrow her makeover stuff!” She dashed upstairs.

“This would be like my weekly spa treatment days with Fluttershy,” Rarity said. “I’ll make sure to help if you need it.”

Applejack looked a bit nervous. She wasn’t really the type to worry about looks. Twilight noticed this. “You know,” she said knowingly. “Makeovers might help get Caramel’s attention.”

Applejack seemed offended. “What kind o’ shallow stallion do ya take him fer?”

Twilight was taken aback by Applejack’s remark. “You’re right,” Twilight said. “I’m sorry.”

Though, thoughts of Caramel liking a newly rejuvenated Applejack did have a certain appeal to the farm mare. “Then again…”

Twilight heard this and she smiled. “I’ll need you to remove your hat.”

“Uh,” Applejack said. “Think ah can keep it on? Mah hat’s powerful important ta me.” Rarity, irritated, used her magic to levitate Applejack’s hat off, which the farm mare did NOT appreciate. “HEY!” She quickly slapped it back down. “THIS HERE WAS MAH PA’S HAT! HE GAVE IT TA ME ON HIS DEATHBED!”

“Rarity,” Twilight said. “I think we should consider Applejack’s feelings about this.” After the farm mare’s outburst, Rarity could only agree.

“Terribly sorry, Applejack,” Rarity said. “I should have been more considerate. Had I known the hat’s sentimental value, I would’ve given you more warning.”

Applejack heard Rarity’s apology and took a deep breath to calm herself down. “Alright,” Applejack said. “Ah can forgive ya fer that n’ ah can apologize fer mah outburst. But, please don’t try ta ask me ta take mah hat off.”

“It’d only be off for a few minutes while she curled your mane,” Pinkie said, bringing in the beauty supplies.

“If that’s the case,” Applejack said. “Ah would take it off on mah own.” She did so, clearly pained to do so. “Ah really hope y’all appreciate this.”

Pinkie carefully put the hair rollers in Applejack’s mane. When Pinkie got to work on putting rollers in Applejack’s tail, the farm mare put her hat back on. The things ah do fer mah coltfriend, Applejack internally complained. Rarity then put cucumber slices on Applejack’s eyes. “The Tartarus’re these fer?”

“They’re to reduce the puffiness around one’s eyes,” Rarity said. “I typically have them whenever I get a spa treatment.”

“At the farm, we eat cucumbers,” Applejack said.

“Well, I do, too,” Rarity said. “But, there are fruits and vegetables that have multiple uses aside from eating and drinking.”

Pinkie seemed to grow the tongue of a frog, which she used to eat the cucumber slices from Applejack’s face. “Mmm!” she said. “Nice and crisp!”

Twilight was weirded out. “Should I even bother asking how she managed to do that?”

Rarity and Applejack shook their heads no. “You’ll deplete your sanity trying to understand Pinkie Pie,” Rarity said.

“Yeah,” Applejack said. “We stopped askin’ questions ‘bout her long ago. Livin’ a purty content life, honestly.”

“Alright then,” Twilight said. “Well, I think we can… wait, we haven’t done Pinkie’s mane and tail yet!”

“Ah, I can do that,” Rarity said before muttering under her breath. “Hopefully, this’ll fair better than last time.”

“Last time?” Twilight asked.

“It’ll be easier ta just watch, Twi,” Applejack said. “From a safe distance.”

Twilight looked more confused than ever. Rarity then tried getting to work styling Pinkie’s frizzy mane. It was hard to manage, but, she was able to get a few curlers into Pinkie’s mane. Three seconds later, however, the volume of Pinkie’s mane caused the curlers to snap out, propelling through the bakery. The curlers ricocheted of the walls at the speed of bullets. Finally understanding, Twilight wore a mixing bowl as a makeshift helmet.

“That’s what Rarity and Applejack meant,” Twilight said, clearly in a state of shock. Her shock increased further as Pinkie casually stood still with the dopiest grin you could imagine.

“I can at least apply the mud mask,” Rarity said once she shook off the fright. “As soon as we’re in no danger of curler warfare.”

It wasn’t long until the curlers lost their momentum and landed harmlessly on the floor.

“Okay, for future reference, I recommend we not do that again,” Twilight said.

“Noted,” Rarity and Applejack said together before noticing they spoke in unison. “Whoa, that was weird. That was weird, too.”

Rarity shook this off and she applied the mud mask to Pinkie’s face. “There,” she said. “That should do it.”

“Thanks, Rarity,” Pinkie said. “I feel like a popstar already.”

“Well…” Rarity began. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.”

“So, now that makeovers are done,” Pinkie said. “What do we do next, Twilight?”

Twilight checked the book. “It says we tell each other ghost stories.”

“Oooh~” Pinkie said. “That should be fun! Anypony know a good one?”

Applejack stepped up. “Ah got one. Ah’d like ta tell y’all the tale o’ the prissy ghost. She was so focused on makin’ things pretty that she terrified everypony in a different way. OoOoOoOoh~! Don’t that sound familiar?”

Rarity’s expression was deadpan. In a somewhat sarcastic tone, she said, “Yes, that was terrifying.” She then cleared her throat. “Perhaps you have heard of this ghastly tale of the ghost who was so inconsiderate, that she drove everypony insane within a 100 mile radius with her stubbornness. OoOoOoOoh~! Perhaps that rings any bells?”

Applejack wasn’t amused. “Rarity, ya made that up.”

“It’s a ghost story,” Rarity argued. “They’re all made up.”

“Either way,” Pinkie said. “Both stories are pretty spooky. I don’t know any ghost stories myself, but, I do see that Twilight has one she wants to tell.” Pinkie turned off the lights.

“Thanks, Pinkie,” Twilight said as she lit a candle lantern. “This is one my brother once told me when we were foals. This one is called, the Legend of the Headless Horse.”

“Wait, how would a headless horse even see?” Pinkie asked.

“That’s not the point, Pinkie,” Twilight said through thinly-veiled annoyance. She then cleared her throat and began her story. “It was a dark and stormy night, just like this one. And four ponies were having a slumber party, just like this one.” She promptly used her magic to cram a donut in Pinkie’s mouth when sensing the party pony was about to comment on her story.

Some time later, Twilight continued her story. Rarity and Applejack gradually grew anxious to know how the story ended. Pinkie was given a few treats to distract her mind.

“And, just when the last pony thought she was safe,” Twilight said. “There… standing right behind her… just inches away was… THE HEADLESS HORSE!” A flash of lightning illuminated the silhouette of a pony without a head. Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie saw this and they screamed with terror. Rarity and Applejack even held onto each other. Suddenly, Pinkie and Twilight broke out in fits of giggles.

“Good one, Twilight!” Pinkie exclaimed amidst her laughter while turning the lights back on.

“Ghost story, check,” Twilight said as she looked over the guide after removing the blanket over her head.

Applejack and Rarity realized they were holding onto each other and let themselves go before anyone could comment on it. “We will never speak of this again,” Rarity said.

“Never speak o' what again?” Applejack said, pretending to forget the ordeal.

“Exactly,” Rarity said.

“Hmm~” Twilight said. “It says here that the next part on the list is making s’mores.”

“Let’s get started!” Pinkie cheered.

Since they were indeed in a bakery, Pinkie and Twilight helped to get the s’mores supplies together. Pinkie grabbed graham crackers and chocolate. Twilight grabbed the marshmallows, which were vegan. Applejack then skewered some marshmallows and began to toast them over the lit stovetop. “Too bad Spike isn’t here,” Twilight said. “He loves s’mores.”

“Yeah,” Pinkie said. “But, don’t worry. You can always make a special night to make s’mores with him some other time.”

Rarity neatly placed a perfectly square graham cracker on top of her nearly finished s’more.

“That’s Rarity for you,” Pinkie said. “Whether it be dressmaking or food, she knows how to make things look pretty.”

“Ta be frank,” Applejack said. “Ah don’t much see the point o’ makin’ food look purty. It’ll end up eaten, anyhow.” As if to emphasize her point, she shoved an entire s’more in her mouth.

“I can kind of see where Rarity’s coming from, though,” Twilight said. “You’ll want to eat food if it looks good. You wouldn’t want to eat an apple if it had a worm in it, would you?”

Applejack swallowed. “Well, ya may have a point there,” she admitted. “Though, appearance ain’t everythin’.”

“That is true,” Twilight said. “I mean, Spike’s a perfect example. You couldn’t tell what he’s been through just by looking at him.”

“Indeed,” Rarity said. “From what you’ve told us, the little fellow has endured a lot of heartache.”

“Yep,” Twilight said. “But, Spike has plenty of positive traits. Why, he could play the piano with considerable skill.”

“Really?” Pinkie asked. “I may have to perform with him at some point.”

“Funny how we never saw him play it,” Applejack commented.

“He doesn’t get many opportunities to,” Twilight admitted. “I’m partially to blame for that.”

“Hopefully someday,” Rarity said. “There will be a chance for Spike to shine.”

“Remember when Applejack tried to harvest all those apples herself?” Twilight asked.

“We sure do,” Pinkie said. “Why?”

“Well, I asked Spike to use a toy trumpet he got for his birthday last year to wake Applejack up,” Twilight explained. “The problem was that he didn’t have it.”

“Ah thought ah heard ya mumblin’ about somethin’,” Applejack said. “But, ah couldn’t hear why he didn't have it.”

Twilight blushed. “Well, he returned it about a month after getting it.”

“Oh,” Applejack said.

“I told him not to play it when I was around,” Twilight continued. “He figured that since I’d be around him most of his life anyway, there was no point in keeping it. Everytime he gets some kind of musical instrument for his birthday or Hearth’s Warming from my brother, I tell him not to play them when I’m around. So, he doesn’t hold onto them for any longer than a month.”

“Well,” Pinkie said. “You can always tell him that you changed your mind on that.”

“Believe me,” Twilight said. “After that day, I told him that any musical instrument he got, he could play whenever he asked permission. But, there’s another problem.”

“What’s that?” Rarity asked.

“Well, I found a few musical instruments in the library,” Twilight explained. “What they were doing there in the first place is beyond me. Anyway, I told Spike that he could try playing them, but, the second he faced me with the lute, he just… froze.”

“Hmm,” Applejack pondered. “Maybe it’s ‘cause o’ that rule ya gave him er could just be a case o' stage fright.”

“Maybe both,” Pinkie suggested. “Or, more specifically, when Twilight’s in the audience.”

“It would be better if you gave him some time,” Rarity said. “Who knows? He might overcome his fear on his own.”

“I think I might have an idea,” Pinkie said. “I could help him by teaching him music every now and then. I can play up to ten different instruments at once.”

“Spike and I would have to talk about this,” Twilight said. “But, if he’s up for it, then, I’ll allow it. If I’m being truthful, I often heard Spike playing the instruments he got whenever he thought I wasn’t listening. He really is quite talented. I kind of regret not giving him many opportunities to nurture that talent.”

“That’s alright, Sugarcube,” Applejack said. “We all make mistakes n’ we all learn from ‘em.” She then offered Twilight another s’more. “Here, why not enjoy this here s’more?”

“Thanks,” Twilight said as she ate the s’more gratefully.

Soon, all four mares had their fill of s’mores. In Pinkie’s case with her appetite and fondness for sweets, it was certainly more than the others combined. She was a bit rounder as a result. “I think we can check that off the list,” the party mare said.

“Alright,” Twilight said. She then looked through the guide. “Now, the next item of fun we have to do is Truth or Dare.”

“Ooh, that’s a good one!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“How do ya play?” Applejack asked.

Pinkie explained the rules. “You face the pony of your choice and ask ‘truth or dare.’ If they pick truth, they have to give an honest answer to a question you ask. If they pick dare, they have to do something you tell them to do. If they do either, it’s their turn. And it continues like that. Now, I have some house rules to add.”

“That’s understandable,” Twilight said. “What are your house rules?”

“You can’t choose the same pony twice in a row,” Pinkie explained. “Also, the oldest player gets the first pick. How old are you, Twilight?”

“I’m 16 years old,” Twilight answered.

“Huh,” Pinkie said. “You and Rarity are both a year older than me. Since Applejack’s the oldest of us at 18, she gets first pick.”

“Okie dokie,” Applejack said. “Well, then, Rarity. Truth er Dare?”

“Dare,” Rarity said. Applejack gave a rather sneaky grin.

“I dares ya ta stick yer head in the sink n’ let the water run onta yer mane~” Applejack smirked.

Rarity was less than amused. “Is this some twisted revenge for removing your hat?”

“Maybe it is, maybe it ain’t,” Applejack smirked. “Either way, ya can’t back out.” She then realized what she was saying before consulting Pinkie. “She can’t, can she?”

“Well, she could,” Pinkie admitted. “But, doing so would mean she forfeits her turn.”

“Hmmph~!” Rarity huffed. “Very well… fine!” She went into the kitchen, turned on the sink, and then after making sure the water wasn't too hot or too cold dunked her mane under the faucet. Applejack tried not to laugh. After she was certain she could take no more, Rarity lifted her mane up and turned off the water. Her entire mane was soaking wet and water dripped everywhere. "Can somepony give me a towel?" Rarity asked.

Pinkie gave Rarity a towel as Applejack’s laughter couldn’t be contained any longer. “Since Rarity did the dare, she gets to go next,” Pinkie said.

Rarity then walked over to Applejack, clearly vexed. "I dare Applejack to play dress up."

Pinkie winced. “Rarity, you didn’t ask her ‘truth or dare,’ so, that doesn’t count.”

“Yes,” Twilight said. “I’m new to this game myself, but, shouldn’t you ask Applejack ‘truth or dare’ first?”

Rarity groaned. “Fine. Applejack, truth or dare?”

“Truth,” Applejack said.

Rarity wasn’t happy with this choice. “Why do you insist on being so inconsiderate with others?”

“Ah’m not tryin’ ta,” Applejack said. “N’ that’s the pot callin’ the kettle black right there. Did ya consider ah don’t take kindly ta bein’ told ah’m doin’ somethin’ wrong all the time?”

Twilight could see that tensions were building between the two. “I think it’s safe to say that Applejack gave an honest answer, so, she can take her turn now,” she said.

“And remember,” Pinkie said. “You can’t pick the same pony twice in a row.”

Applejack and Rarity both took deep breaths and tried to calm down.

The truth or dare contest lasted for quite a while. Applejack and Rarity for reasons Pinkie Pie and Twilight couldn't figure kept attacking each other with dares at every opportunity and had to keep being reminded that they can’t automatically choose to dare somepony. At last Twilight decided to simply check off truth or dare and move on. "Hmm? What's this, pillow fight?" Twilight asked.

“Ooh,” Pinkie said. “This is a really exciting one!”

"Oh, there is no way I'm participating in that," Rarity said in an unamused tone of voice.

“Think fast,” Pinkie said as a pillow hit Rarity in the face.

“I just said–” Rarity began before Applejack hit her with another pillow. “Oof!” She suddenly became more determined. “It. Is. On!”

She then snagged one of the pillows that Applejack tossed at her and propelled it at the farm mare. Applejack caught some with her lasso before using her hindlegs to send more pillows flying at Rarity.

“Are we not going to question the fact that there’s an absurd amount of pillows in a bakery?” Twilight asked. No answer came. “No? Okay, then.”

The pillow fight/warfare continued with feathers littering the floor. One feather landed on Pinkie’s nose and she sneezed. Like in their trek through the Everfree Forest, Pinkie’s sneeze launched confetti. She was also propelled towards the ceiling.

“Are you alright, Pinkie?!” Twilight asked, clearly concerned.

“This isn’t the first time I hit the ceiling after sneezing and it won’t be the last,” Pinkie replied.

After she fell down, a bright red earth mare thinner than Mrs. Cake, but, chubbier than Mr. Cake with a white mane and tail, brown eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting three bundt cakes entered wearing a simple white apron and chef’s hat. “What’s going on up here?” she asked.

When the mares saw her, the pillow fight came to a sudden halt.

“Oopsies!” Pinkie squeaked. “Sorry, Auntie Bundt Cake. We were having a pillow fight at our slumber party and we got carried away in the fun.”

The older mare looked around. “I see,” she said. “Tell you what, I’ll help you clean up. I don’t think we need my brother fainting over the mess in his bakery.”

“Thanks, Auntie Bundt Cake,” Pinkie smiled.

“I thought Pinkie was unrelated to the Cakes,” Twilight said.

“I am,” Pinkie said. “I just like calling her Auntie Bundt Cake since I see the Cakes as a second pair of parents.”

“Aww,” Twilight said with a smile. “That is sweet.”

The mares young and old began cleaning up the feathers strewn about the floor. Soon, the bakery was clean and good as new. “Good work, girls,” Bundt Cake said. “It’s getting late. You better hit the sack.”

“Why?” Pinkie asked. “What did the sack do to us?”

Bundt Cake giggled. “It’s an expression, sweetie,” she explained. “It means go to bed.”

“That’s a good idea,” Twilight said. “This is a slumber party after all and slumber does indeed mean sleep. Let’s get some sleep, girls.”

“We can all share my room,” Pinkie offered.

“Thanks, Pinkie,” Twilight said. “Good night, Bundt Cake.”

“Good night, girls,” Bundt Cake said as she went to a guest room.

As the four mares ascended the stairs, a thought crossed Twilight’s mind. “How come I’ve never seen Bundt Cake before?”

“Oh, she’s just here for a visit,” Pinkie explained. “She runs a bakery in Fillydelphia. She comes here once a month to spend a week with her brother, Mr. Cake.”

“Interesting,” Twilight said. “Wait, who runs her bakery while she’s gone?”

“Her apprentices, Chocolate Chip and Vanilla Milkshake,” Pinkie answered.

“Ah, that’s good,” Twilight said. She yawned. “Well, we better get to bed.”

"Follow me." Pinkie Pie said. She led Twilight, Applejack, and Rarity up to her room which happened to be at the very top of Sugarcube Corner.

“So, this is where you sleep,” Twilight said with a smile. “It’s so you, Pinkie.”

“I know,” Pinkie giggled. “This place was originally just an empty loft that the Cakes used for storage. Then, when I came along, they decided to convert this into my bedroom.”

“That’s so nice,” Twilight said.

“The Cakes’ve been known fer their kindness,” Applejack said. “Fer some reason, Mrs. Cake comes ta Sweet Apple Acres ta bake with Granny Smith each month.”

“That’s a lovely sounding ritual,” Rarity said. “Though, I only see one bed. I’m fairly certain we can’t all fit in it at the same time.”

“Don’t worry,” Pinkie said. “I have extra sleeping bags in case I have an impromptu slumber party or camping party to prep.” She gestured a hoof to five different sleeping bags. “Pick any one you want.”

Twilight spotted a sleeping bag in a night sky blue with silver stars. “I like the look of this one,” she said. “I’ll take it.”

“Good choice, Twilight,” Pinkie said.

Rarity saw a light blue sleeping bag with white diamond patterns. “That one is practically calling out to me~” she said. She levitated it to herself.

Applejack found a simple red and green sleeping bag. “The colors remind me o’ home,” Applejack said. “Ah’ll use that.”

Pinkie got into the bed while the other mares rolled out the sleeping bags.

“Nighty night, everypony,” Pinkie said.

“Good night, Pinkie,” the other mares said.

So, the ponies turned in for the night. Though, Rarity and Applejack were still sore with each other over the events that happened over the course of the day.

“Wait, ah just remembered somethin’,” Applejack said.

“What is it, Applejack?” Rarity said, though she was hoping it would be quick.

“There’s a big tree right outside,” Applejack said. “Stupid question, but, ya didn’t trim it, did ya?”

Rarity, hearing this, actually admitted. “Actually, I hadn’t been around this part, so, I hadn’t.”

“Well, it ain’t like it’d matter much anyhow,” Applejack said. “Seein’ as ya didn’t prune the trees in the parts ya were at.”

“Hmph~” Rarity said. “I was trying to spruce up the place.”

“What ya were doin’,” Applejack protested. “Was settin’ up more work fer the cleanup crew after the storm! It’s like ya don’t even care if the storm blows branches onta somepony, yerself included! Some o’ the branches might break somepony’s window! Yer window! Some Element o’ Generosity y’all turned out ta be!”

Rarity heard Applejack’s words and she knew she was right. Even so, the harshness did upset Rarity and she couldn’t hold back the tears streaming down her face.

“Very well!” Rarity said mournfully. “I’ll just go out and fix everything myself! If you think I don’t care, I’ll show you!”

So, Rarity got out of her sleeping bag and went downstairs. It was clear that she was making her way outside. However, Applejack grabbed Rarity’s tail with her mouth before pulling her back. “Don’t be stupid, Rarity,” Applejack said. “Ah know that’s a tall order, but, y’all know as well as ah do that the second ya get one hair out o’ place, ya call it quits!”

“Well,” Rarity said. “You are right, but, I still want to help!”

“Li’l late fer that!” Applejack shouted.

At this point, Twilight lost patience. “For the love of Celestia, shut up!”

Hearing this, Rarity and Applejack stopped their arguing. Twilight scowled disappointedly at the two. They were so caught up in their arguing that they practically ruined Twilight’s first slumber party.

“I hoped that you two could put aside your petty squabbles for one night,” the lavender unicorn reprimanded. “Clearly, I was wrong. You two have been acting like foals since you got here! Is this any way for two mares who helped defeat Nightmare Moon to act?”

Rarity and Applejack were clearly ashamed of themselves.

“Powerful sorry, Twilight,” Applejack said. “Ah was tryin’ mah best ta get along.”

“As was I,” Rarity said. “But, clearly, we still had our own feelings about what happened earlier.”

Pinkie stirred in her bed. “What’s going on, girls?”

“Oh, great,” Twilight said. “Now, on top of ruining my first official slumber party, you woke up Pinkie! What else could go wrong?!”

“Uh,” Pinkie said looking at a nearby window. “You probably shouldn’t have asked that, Twilight.”

“Why not?” Twilight asked when a sudden flash of lightning struck the tree outside.

“That’s why,” Pinkie answered. The other three mares went to the window.

“That tree is about to fall on that nearby roof!” Twilight exclaimed.

“See, Rarity?” Applejack snapped. “This is why we needed ta prune them trees!”

“Yes, I understand now,” Rarity said. “You were right.”

“That’s the first sensible thing ya said all day!” Applejack said, opening the window.

“Applejack, wait!” Rarity exclaimed, her eyes glimmering slightly.

“If’n ya want ta help now, kindly shut yer yap!” Applejack said, clearly annoyed by Rarity holding her up again.

“You don’t understand!” Rarity exclaimed.

But, Applejack ignored the fashionista. She pulled out her trusty lasso and threw it at the tree, which was actually a lot closer than it looked. She pulled as hard as she could and slowly the tree began to tilt away from falling onto a nearby house.

“Whoo-hoo!” Pinkie cheered. “Way to go, AJ!”

“Ya see that, Rarity,” Applejack said, cockily. “That’s what we call gettin’ ‘er done.”

However, the tree that Applejack lassoed crashed through Pinkie’s window after she pulled back, creating a mess in her bedroom.

“Well done, Applejack,” Rarity said sarcastically. “This is a fine mess you created.”

Applejack pushed aside some branches. “If ya’d done yer job prunin’ the trees,” she protested. “Ah wouldn’t’ve needed ta use mah lasso!”

“Well,” Rarity said. “If you hadn’t interrupted me, you would have known I was trying to warn you that this tree would end up in here!”

“ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!” Twilight shouted. “YOU’RE BOTH EQUALLY RESPONSIBLE! RARITY FOR NOT PRUNING THE TREES AND APPLEJACK FOR IGNORING A PONY WITH THE MYSTIC EYES OF DETAIL! I DON’T HAVE MYSTIC EYES AND EVEN I COULD SEE THAT THE TREE WOULD’VE ENDED UP IN HERE! FUNNY HOW THAT WORKS!”

Rarity and Applejack were shocked with Twilight’s outburst. “Wow,” Pinkie said. “So, that’s where Spike gets it from.”

Rarity and Applejack finally realized what they had to do. Applejack began pushing the tree out with Twilight and Pinkie while Rarity began restocking a bookshelf that had books knocked out of it. “Really, Rarity? Really?” Twilight said. “I know this is rich coming from me, but, you’re putting book re-shelving over getting this tree out of here?! Fine! See if I ask you for help ever again!”

Applejack considered this and she did one of the bravest things that anypony could do at that point. “Rarity… Ah’m sorry.”

Rarity was stopped in her tracks. “What?”

“Ah said, ‘Ah’m sorry,’” Applejack said. “Ah should’ve been kinder ta y’all before. Ah should’ve explained the situation nicer instead o’ bein’ in a huff. N’ if ah’d listened ta y’all, we wouldn’t be in this mess. But, fer now, ya need ta put that job aside n’ help us with this one big job… please.”

Rarity hesitated. “But, I’ll get all icky…”

“And that’s preferable to having a bunch of branches filling the room and explaining this to the Cakes?” Twilight asked.

“Touche,” Rarity said. “I’ll help… I promise.”

Applejack raised an eyebrow and her eyes shimmered a bit. “Welp, better get in gear ‘stead o’ just standin’ there."

So, Rarity also put in the effort to get the giant tree out of the Sugarcube Corner upstairs window. It was hard work and tiring, but, eventually, all four of them managed to get the tree section out of the rooftop loft. Rarity then used her magic to repair the broken window and wall while Twilight used hers to lower the tree section harmlessly to the ground. Rarity wiped her brow. It wasn’t dressmaking, but, she was satisfied with her work. That changed when she noticed that she was covered in leaves, branches, and tree sap. “I look awful and I feel so itchy!”

“Ya look like ya did hard work n’ contributed ta society fer a change,” Applejack said. “‘Sides, ain’t nothin’ a li’l bath can’t fix.”

“And who knows,” Pinkie said. “That look could also inspire a fashion lineup!”

“Really?” Rarity asked.

“Sure,” Twilight said in a friendly tone before switching to a more blunt one. “You’ll still have to own up to the cleanup crew that you didn’t prune the trees like you were supposed to, though.”

“Yes, I will,” Rarity said with a sigh. “This has taught me a lot and after this, I’m going to put in the effort to prune rather than prettify. I owe it to all of you for helping me realize this. I apologize for not helping when I should have.”

“Fer good measure,” Applejack said. “Ya should help clean up yer mess ta prove ya mean it. Speakin’ from experience, actions speak louder n’ words.”

Rarity nodded and put a hoof to her heart as a way to say, “I promise.”

Soon, the four ponies put in the effort to clean things up inside Sugarcube Corner. The storm was slowly starting to die down. “I think this would make a good friendship lesson,” Pinkie said when they were done.

“This would, Pinkie,” Twilight said with a smile. “Given that Spike isn’t present, I’ll be okay with writing this one myself.” She reached into her saddle bag and pulled out an inkwell, a quill, and parchment. “Good thing I’m always prepared.”

“Yeah,” Pinkie said. “But, if you didn’t have that stuff, I wouldn’t have minded giving you some of my stationery. Do you think Princess Celestia would like a letter written in glitter gel pen?”

“I’m trying to show some professionalism, Pinkie,” Twilight said. “She’s one of two rulers of Equestria, not a schoolfilly.”

“Okie dokie lokie,” Pinkie said, shrugging it off. Twilight began drafting her letter.

“Dear Princess Celestia,
It’s hard to believe that two ponies that seem so different could ever get along. But, when you put your differences behind you, you might just find a way to become friends after all.

Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle.”

“Too bad Spike’s not here,” Pinkie said. “I wonder how he’s doing.”

Meanwhile, in Canterlot, Spike is enjoying a soothing cup of cocoa with Princess Luna, whose mane and tail were growing longer and beginning to move in a cascading wave motion. Canus was hugging Spike gently. “So, this guy’s a plush doll?” the dragon asked.

“Yes, young drake,” the night princess replied.

“But, he’s alive?” Spike observed.

“Thou art correct again, young drake,” she confirmed.

Spike grew slightly annoyed. “Okay, seriously,” he said. “Nopony talks like that anymore.”

“Ah, apologies,” Luna said. “It is going to take some time for me to adjust to this new developed way of speaking. I haven’t really had any proper conversations in 1,000 years.”

“Wait, didn’t you speak less archaic as Nightmare Moon?” Spike asked.

“Nightmare Moon has a will of her own,” Luna explained. “She manifested from my own negative emotions.”

“Wait,” Spike says. “Has? You mean she’s still out there?!”

“Yes,” Luna admitted. “She resides within my heart still. But, through the grace of the Elements of Harmony and the Magic of Friendship, she’s powerless to do any real harm for a good long while.”

“That’s good at least,” Spike said. “Though, wouldn’t it make sense to purge Nightmare Moon for good?”

“Alas,” Luna said. “Were it so simple, my exodus to the moon wouldn’t have occurred to begin with. Sadly, I cannot permanently rid myself of Nightmare Moon any more than you yourself can purge your own negative traits.”

“I see,” Spike said sadly.

Luna placed a gentle hoof on the young drake’s shoulder.

Back at Sugarcube Corner, Twilight responded to Pinkie’s comment. “I hope he’s doing well.”

Later, after the mares got a good night’s sleep, the storm clouds had rolled away and it was a beautiful sunny day once more. After breakfast, Rarity joined the clean-up crew.

By noon, Spike had returned on the train from Canterlot. On his way to the library, he saw the damage from the storm. “Whoa!” he said. “This is some mess! I better get a broom at the library.”

Spike hurried to the Golden Oak Library to find Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie enjoying some tea and cookies.

“Welcome back, Spike,” Twilight said with a smile. “Why don’t you join us for a tea break? You must be exhausted from your journey back.”

Spike was surprised. “Okay,” he said, unsure. “But, what about the mess outside?”

“Oh, it’s alright,” Rarity said. “My break’s over anyway. I’m getting back to work.” She then trotted off, leaving Spike to notice beads of sweat on her coat.

“Okay,” said the dragon as he took a seat. “What’d I miss?”

“Get comfy, Spike,” Pinkie said. “Because it’s a doozy of a story.”

“But, could you send Princess Celestia my newest friendship report, please?” Twilight asked.

“Of course,” Spike smiled.

Twilight gave Spike her finished letter and he sent it with his magic fire breath.

“Okay,” Spike said. “So, what’s the story?”

“Well,” Applejack said. “It’s a tale o’ prunin’ trees, clashin’ personalities, n’ a slumber party.”

So, Spike heard the tale that he was told.

End of Chapter.

Chapter 9: Bridle Gossip (S1:E9)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 9: Bridle Gossip

Two days after Twilight’s first slumber party, the sun was shining bright as the mess the storm made was all cleaned up. On that morning, the lavender unicorn was out for a walk, Spike happily riding on her back.

“Wow,” Twilight said happily. “What a gorgeous day!”

“Rainbow must’ve gotten up early for once and cleared the clouds away,” Spike commented.

Twilight giggled to herself at Spike’s remark before saying, “I bet all of Ponyville will want to enjoy this beautiful day.”

However, to the mare and drake’s confusion, there was no such thing happening. “Wait,” Twilight noted. “Where IS everypony?”

“Is it a pony holiday?” Spike asked.

“Not that I know of,” Twilight answered. “I would have at least heard of something from Pinkie Pie or somepony.”

“Does my breath smell like sulfur again?” Spike asked.

“Just a little, Spike,” Twilight said. “You did take the effort to brush your teeth after breakfast, though, so it’s not as strong as usual.”

“Think Trixie’s back in town?” Spike considered.

“Maybe,” Twilight said. “Though if she was, she probably would have written before she arrived.”

“I don’t think she has her own mailing address,” Spike said. “She said so herself that she moves from town to town.”

“That’s true,” Twilight said. “So, what could be the problem?”

“Psst…” a familiar voice whispered.

Twilight and Spike turned their attention to the voice. It was Pinkie Pie, poking her head from the top door of Sugarcube Corner, while the bottom door was closed. “Twilight… Spike…” she whispered. “Hurry and hide before she gets you!”

“Before who gets us?” Twilight asked in confusion. “What’s going on?”

“Just get in here!” Pinkie demandingly whispered.

Twilight and Spike looked at each other before shrugging and entering Sugarcube Corner. “Okay,” Spike said. “Now, can you please explain what’s going on?”

“Yes,” Twilight said. “Like, why you’re hiding alone in the dark.”

“I’m not alone in the dark,” Pinkie said.

Pinkie adjusted the lantern she was holding to show that she was indeed joined by others. Present were also Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack, and even Apple Bloom. “Okay,” Spike said. “That still doesn’t explain why you’re all in the dark.”

“We’re hidin’ from her~” Applejack said, pointing to a nearby window. They all looked out the window. Standing just a few hoofsteps away was a mysterious figure whose face was obscured by a thick brown cloak, which also covered the figure's back and most of its legs (though they could see enough to determine that the figure had only four). Said figure was digging its hoof into the ground before casting a glare in the direction of the group in Sugarcube Corner. Most of them, minus Twilight, Spike, and Apple Bloom, reacted in surprise from seeing the glare.

“Okay,” Spike said as he was beginning to lose patience. “That just raises further questions.”

“Like for one thing,” Twilight began to ask. “Who is she?”

“Ponies ‘round here call her Zecora,” Apple Bloom said.

“That’s a nice name,” Twilight said. “I haven’t seen her around Ponyville before. Does she live nearby?”

“And why did you all flip out for no good reason?” Spike asked, not liking the lack of knowledge.

“No good reason?!” Applejack snapped. “Ya call protectin’ yer family no good reason?!”

“FROM WHAT?!” Spike demanded to know. “YOU’RE NOT EXPLAINING ANYTHING!”

“You see, Spike,” Rarity said. “Zecora is mysterious.”

“Sinister,” Rainbow added.

“And spooooooookyyyyyy~” Pinkie added.

Twilight and Spike looked out the window again with the others following shortly thereafter. The figure removed the hood of the cloak, revealing a creature with fur in alternating stripes of white and black. Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow, Fluttershy, and Pinkie gasped. Twilight, Spike, and Apple Bloom didn’t. Spike grew more annoyed. “Okay, will you all cut that out?! It’s getting on my nerves!”

“Sorry, Spike,” Rarity said. “But, I’ve hardly ever seen a pony with those stripes.”

“She’s not a pony,” Twilight said. “She’s a zebra.”

“Yeah,” Spike helped to explain. “And, they’re closer related to donkeys than they are to ponies. Those stripes aren’t a fashion choice, they’re what she was born with.” He then glared at Rarity in disapproval. “And here, I thought ladies don’t disparage one for things they can’t control,” he said, venom dripping off every word.

“Didn’t any of you learn about zebras in school?” Twilight asked. The other ponies shook their heads no. “What is wrong with this town’s educational system that you don’t know anything about the cultures of other sentient species?”

“Well… ah guess there’s education not even Miss Cheerilee can teach,” Apple Bloom said quietly.

“Or Miss Teaching,” Rarity sighed.

“Well… Ponyville has only really been here fer about three generations,” Applejack admitted. “Ah guess culture o’ other species wasn’t really on the radar. ‘Sides, this here’s an earth pony-founded town. We ain’t got the same high academic standards as Canterlot. Ah was mostly homeschooled n’ ah don’t really know much ‘less it’s about apples.”

“Never mind,” Twilight said, exasperated. “We really need updates to the education system. As for Zecora, most zebras in Equestria are born in Farasi, a faraway coastal region from Ponyville and Canterlot. I wonder what she’s doing here. Which brings me back to a previous question. Does she live nearby?”

“That’s just it, Twi,” Applejack explained. “She lives in… The Everfree Forest!”

“That’s because zebras mostly prefer to live in wild environments,” Spike said. “I’ve never been to school a day in my life, but, even I know that.”

“That’s ‘cause Twilight’s a good teacher,” Apple Bloom smiled.

“But, the Everfree Forest ain’t natural,” Applejack said.

“We already know it’s different from the rest of Equestria, Applejack,” Spike said, trying very hard not to lose his temper. “We went through it to find the Elements of Harmony, remember?”

“And all of this stuff you’re saying about Zecora,” Twilight added. “It’s all based on gossip and rumors. Now, tell me, what exactly have you seen Zecora do?”

“Well, we’ve seen her come to Ponyville once a month,” Rainbow admitted.

“We’ve been here for longer than a month,” Spike pointed out. “We didn’t see her until now.”

“We do live a bit farther from the Everfree Forest,” Twilight said. “We must keep missing her when she does come to town.”

“Then,” Rarity added. “She lurks by the stores.”

“Oh, my~” Twilight said, feigning fright. Spike was growing steadily angrier.

“Then, she digs her hoof at the ground,” Fluttershy added.

“Good gracious~” Twilight said, again feigning fright. But, in a serious tone, she said, “I’m sorry, but, none of that sounds inherently evil.”

“Did you consider that maybe she’s just coming here to visit?” Spike said through clenched teeth.

“Ah did,” Apple Bloom said. “Ah’m thinkin’ she’s tryin’ ta be neighborly.”

“Maybe she’s not lurking by the stores,” Twilight added. “Maybe she’s trying to go into them. To shop?”

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom added. “Everyone likes ta shop. Maybe she n’ Rarity’ll become gal pals ‘cause o’ that!”

“Don’t count on it,” Rarity said. Offended, Apple Bloom left the room while none of the others were looking.

“Well, there’s still the digging at the ground,” Rainbow said.

“Zebras do that when they’re trying to find fresh water,” Twilight said flatly. The sound of a kettle boiling started to be heard. “Uh, Pinkie? Did you put a kettle on the stovetop?”

“I don’t think I did,” Pinkie said. “Wouldn’t want spooky Zecora hearing it and coming to get us.”

At that point, Spike finally had enough and shouted, “I CAN’T BELIEVE WHAT I’M HEARING!”

The others turned their attention towards the clearly upset drake. Spike was red in the face with fury and had smoke coming out of his nostrils. Twilight knew at once that Spike had lost his temper.

“You’re all total phonies! You welcome me into town even though I’m a dragon, but, you can’t extend such hospitality to a creature that’s more like a pony than I can ever be?! Does that mean our friendship is built on lies?!” Spike ranted, an emerald glow in his mouth.

The ponies, sans Twilight, considered Spike’s words and they suddenly felt guilty.

“You know,” Rainbow said. “Spike’s right. We were pretty quick to judge Zecora.”

“Besides digging at the ground with her hoof, has she done ANYTHING to harm ANYPONY?” Spike asked before looking Fluttershy right in the eyes. “WELL?! HAS SHE?!”

Fluttershy squeaked in surprise and with tears welling in her eyes, she stammered, “N…no…”

“Some Element of Kindness you are,” Spike continued. “This further proves how much like those elitists in Canterlot you are! All of you!” He began pointing at all of them. “I was glad to move here because it meant I could get away from the speciesism, but, right now, even though it’s not directed at me, it just feels like more of the same! If those welcomes you gave me when I first came here with Twilight had even an ounce of sincerity to them, you’d all stop acting like a bunch of foals and put in some semblance of effort to get to know Zecora before unfairly judging her! You could all learn a thing or two from Apple Bloom. Other than Twilight, she’s the only pony in this room who’s not acting like a foal!”

They listened to Spike’s words and they all felt very guilty. Then, they smiled to themselves and Fluttershy said to Spike, “We will, Spike. We love you too much to see you get so upset about this. And you’re right. We haven’t been fair to Zecora. But, that’s going to change. We’re going to go over to her together and we’re going to welcome her with open hooves.”

“Yeah,” Pinkie chirped. “In fact, I’m going to throw her a ‘We’re sorry we misjudged you and we’re willing to get to know you better from here on out’ party.”

“Those had better not be empty words,” Spike said. “If they are, I’ll have something else to tell Princess Luna about in five days.”

“I can assure you that these words are not empty,” Rarity said, gently rubbing his left cheek with her hoof. “Come on, you can join us and we’ll talk to Zecora right away.”

Spike calmed down a bit, but, they could all see he was still upset. “I’m watching all of you,” he asserted. “Come on, Apple Bloom.” No response. Spike grew a bit more worried. “Uh, Apple Bloom?”

At that point, they all noticed Apple Bloom wasn’t around.

“Where could she be?!” Applejack asked in a nervous state.

“Do you think she went out to meet Zecora?” Rainbow asked.

“Since she’s been acting more mature than the rest of you, probably,” Spike said, emphasizing the word mature to hammer home the point that he’s upset.

“Okay, Spike!” Groaned Rainbow. “We get it! Don’t keep rubbing it in!”

“That’s rich coming from you, Rainbow Dash,” Rarity said. “You rub things in the faces of others everyday. Therefore, you’re in no position to say that to—”

“I wasn’t done!” Spike declared. “But, speaking from experience from the return of Nightmare Moon, going into the Everfree Forest for any reason is dangerous. We were lucky to make it out last time.” He then paused briefly. “Now, I’m done.”

“We have to go,” Twilight said. “This will be our chance to properly meet Zecora, too. Come on, everyone!”

She started out the entrance, Spike walking backwards by her side as he continued to make “I’m watching you” gestures. Unfortunately, because he was walking backwards, he didn’t realize he was approaching the wall until he bumped into it. Realizing his mistake, he walked around the door, now blushing from embarrassment instead of anger.

In the Everfree Forest, Apple Bloom was doing her best to follow Zecora. Apple Bloom wasn’t used to the Everfree Forest and felt uneasy, especially as she approached a wild crop of strange blue plants. But, she knew she had to continue and give Zecora a proper welcome. “Apple Bloom!” a familiar voice called out.

Apple Bloom stopped in her tracks and turned her attention towards where the voice came from. Zecora also turned to see Apple Bloom as Applejack and her friends fast approached. They were in the strange blue plants. “Y’all should know better n’ ta wander alone.”

“Beware, beware, you ponyfolk,” Zecora chanted in rhyme. “Those leaves of blue are Poison Joak.”

“Poison Joak?” Twilight asked. “Something tells me we should get out of this patch.”

“But, wait!” Pinkie exclaimed. “What about Zecora? Weren’t we going to properly meet her?”

“And does anypony else hear a tinkling noise?” Spike asked as he cupped a claw around his right ear frond.

“Now that you mention it,” Fluttershy said. “I do hear something.”

“Excuse me, Zecora, darling,” Rarity called. “But, what was it you were saying about this Poison Joak?”

“Your dragon friend is safe from the Joak’s spell,” Zecora rhymed again. “But, come tomorrow morning, you’ll find that you won’t fare so well.”

“Uh…” Rainbow said, still confused. “Thanks for the warning, I guess?” Zecora faded into the mist. “Okay, that was strange. What’s the big deal with Poison Joak anyway?” She touched one of the flowers. “They just look like regular plants to me.”

“Whomping willow,” Spike fake coughed.

“It looks like we’ll have ta give Zecora a chance at friendship tamorrow,” Applejack said as she placed Apple Bloom on her back. “Ah need ta get this one home n’ we need ta have a stern talkin’-ta about walkin’ inta the Everfree Forest alone.”

“So, we basically came here for nothing?” Spike grumpily asked.

“I’m afraid so, Spike,” Twilight said.

“Please know that just because there is a slight interruption,” Rarity said. “It doesn’t mean we don’t care.”

“Would it be in poor taste to say that it sounded like Zecora was about to put a curse on us?” Pinkie asked. Spike glared at her with fire in his eyes, frightening her a bit. “That answers that question.”

“Everyone,” Twilight said. “We should be thinking of good things that Zecora can do. We should go over to where she lives right now and make an effort to be kind to her.” She then directed her attention to Pinkie. “And there’s no such thing as curses.”

Fluttershy was about to take a step to where Zecora was going, but, she suddenly found herself very dizzy and sweating profusely. No one else noticed, though.

“That’s funny coming from somepony as skilled at magic as you are, Twilight,” Rainbow commented. Twilight didn’t appreciate the insinuation.

“Unicorn magic,” Twilight responded. “Is something that comes from within. Curses are just all superstitions and supernatural phenomena. It’s not real.”

Spike crossed his arms. “That’s what a lot of ponies thought about the Mare in the Moon,” he pointed out. “But, you took it at face value and look how that turned out.”

Twilight blushed sheepishly. “Okay, you got me there,” she admitted. Suddenly, her horn had blue spots on it. The others grew wide-eyed. “What? Is there something on my face?”

“Not on yer face, sugarcube,” Applejack exclaimed. “It’s yer horn!”

“What about it?” Twilight asked as her horn started to sag like a wet noodle. Rarity levitated a compact mirror to show Twilight’s reflection. Twilight gasped with fright.

“What happened to my horn?!” Exclaimed Twilight. Rainbow’s wings suddenly began moving to her stomach and inverting directions.

“What the–?!” She almost cussed. “What’s going on?!”

“I don’t know,” Pinkie said. “But, we should figure out something fast before thumphin ehf habba!”

On that last part of that sentence, Pinkie’s tongue had swollen and it gained noticeable blue spots like the ones on Twilight’s horn.

“This is starting to become very concerning,” Rarity said as her mane and coat began to change. They gained matted curls like the coat of a Komondor dog.

“This don’t look good,” Applejack said as she began to shrink.

Spike looked at the plants and realized what was going on. “We have to get out of these plants!”

“Fluttershy!” Apple Bloom exclaimed, seeing the passed out yellow pegasus. She then noticed that because Applejack was shrinking, she was getting closer to the plants. “Oh no! Looks like ah’m next!”

Thinking quickly, Spike grabbed Apple Bloom and held her over his head.

“Whoa~!” Apple Bloom said. “Thanks awfully, Spahk! Ya saved me!”

Soon, Applejack stopped shrinking once she reached the size of a toy pony. “We best skedaddle,” the shrunken mare suggested in a high-pitched voice.

“Ah gah Fuhsha~” Pinkie said, hoisting Fluttershy onto her back.

The party left the patch of plants with Spike looking noticeably worried. “Did anything happen to me?” he asked.

“Duzzuh luk lahkit,” Pinkie said. She coated Spike in her spittle.

“Say it, don’t spray it, Spitty Pie,” Spike said.

At that point, Fluttershy was stirring out of her dizzy spell. “Whoa, what happened?” she asked, in a deep masculine voice that surprised her as much as the others.

“Whoa!” Spike said surprised. “With that low of a voice, you went from Fluttershy to Flutterguy!” He then looked over himself again. “Did anything happen to me? And can somepony who doesn’t have a swollen tongue answer?”

“It looks like you’re the only one of us who isn’t affected,” Twilight said. “In fact, that must have been what Zecora meant with her warning.”

“But, why didn’t it work on Spike?” Rainbow asked. “I mean, I can see why Apple Bloom wasn’t because she never touched those freaky plants, but, Spike was standing in them like the rest of us. What makes him so special?”

“It could be because Spike has scales,” Twilight said. “We don’t.”

“Well, how do we reverse this?” Applejack asked.

“Maybe there’s a book in the Golden Oak Library that could help,” Apple Bloom said.

“Good idea, Apple Bloom,” Spike said. “It has a lot of medical books and books about the plants in Ponyville.”

“But, that Poison Joak wasn’t in Ponyville,” Rarity pointed out.

“Not really the time to argue, Hairity,” Rainbow said.

“The Elements of Harmony reference guide mentioned the Everfree Forest,” Twilight said. “So, if we’re lucky, we should find a book on the cure for this Poison Joak.”

Nearly an hour later, none of the ponies found any leads.

“Well,” Applejack said, practically walking out of a book tent. “Ya better call us three-leaved clovers, ‘cause we ain’t lucky.”

“There’s still one book we haven’t checked,” Spike said. “Super Naturals–”

“Spike,” Twilight said, interrupting the purple drake. “Supernaturals aren’t really going to help us. It ties into the occult and unknown.” As an argument slowly began, Apple Bloom left the library, which only Applejack noticed. The shrunken mare followed the filly.

“Wait a minute,” he said. “Doesn’t it seem like you’re doing exactly what the others did to Zecora earlier? Judging a book by its cover? Literally in this case?”

“I’m not in the mood to argue, Spike,” Twilight said. “Since Zecora seems to know more about Poison Joak than the rest of us, I say we go ask her ourselves. In retrospect, we probably should’ve just done that from the start.”

“And this way,” Rarity said. “This will be our chance to actually get to know Zecora and fulfill our promise to Spike.”

Pinkie suddenly noticed that Apple Bloom was being unusually quiet again and tried to alert the others.

“Ah, gahpf?” Pinkie said, her tongue still swollen. Spike shielded the books from her spittle.

“Any chance you could write what you’re trying to say, Pinkie?” Spike said. “The last thing any of us need is an earful from Twilight Flopple.” He quickly realized what he said. “Did I say that out loud?”

“Ye-” Pinkie was about to say, until she started to write something on a nearby chalkboard. She wrote, “Yes, you did. And what I said before was, ‘Uh, guys?’ when trying to tell you that Apple Bloom is quiet again.”

At this, they all noticed the Apple sisters were gone. “Uh-oh,” Spike said. “We better check and make sure we didn’t step or sit on Appletini!”

“Wait,” Twilight said. “What if Apple Bloom went off to see Zecora again and Applejack went with her this time?”

“We better go after them,” Rainbow said before glaring at Spike. “And if you call me ‘Rainbow Crash,’ you better hope those scales can protect you from my cloudkicking skills!”

“Fair enough,” Spike said, slightly intimidated.

So, the ponies and Spike rushed out to find the Apple sisters and see Zecora.

In the Everfree Forest, Apple Bloom entered to find Zecora. She was careful to avoid the Poison Joak and other potentially dangerous vegetation. “Hold it right there, missy!” a familiar voice squeaked.

Apple Bloom looked around her to see where the voice came from. “Huh?” She said in confusion. “Applejack? Izzat you?” The shrunken mare emerged from the young filly’s mane.

“What’d ah tell ya ‘bout runnin’ off alone?!” Applejack shouted.

“Ya said ya were goin’ ta give me a stern talkin’ ta,” Apple Bloom said. “But, ya never did.”

“Well, yer gettin’ it double now!” Applejack said. “What were ya thinkin’ comin’ back in here alone?!”

“Ah was thinkin’ ah should look fer Zecora, who knows more about this Poison Joak, ta see if she knows the cure,” Apple Bloom flatly explained.

“Well,” Applejack said. “Ya do have a point, but, ya shoulda told somepony where ya were goin’ ‘stead o’ just walkin’ off like that.”

“Why bother?” Apple Bloom retorted. “Y’all wouldn’ta listened ta me no how. ‘Sides, how can ya expect me ta grow up if y’all n’ yer overprotectiveness won’t let me learn on mah own?”

Applejack began losing her temper. “Ah don’t want ya gettin’ hurt!”

“Ah’m 8 years old!” Apple Bloom snapped. “Ah ain’t a foal no more!” She then put her shrunken sister on a tree branch overlooking a small crevice. “Ah’ll be back after Ah get an answer from Zecora. Bye bye, little sister.”

“Ah’m still older n' ya!” snapped Applejack. “Get back here, younger sister! Big Mac is still bigger than ya n’ I’ll tell him what ya’ve done!”

“Ooh~!” Apple Bloom called back sarcastically. “Ah’m so scared~!” And the bow-wearing filly pressed on towards Zecora’s home.

“This ain’t really the way ta prove yer point, ya know!” Applejack called. But, by then, Apple Bloom was too far away to hear. “Ugh, this can’t be happenin’!”

Meanwhile, Spike and the others entered the Everfree Forest, Rainbow crashing into everything in front of her. Spike lost patience. “Okay, Rainbow, flying obviously isn’t working right now,” he said. “Maybe instead of continuing to fly and getting brain damage, you can walk on your legs!”

Rainbow groaned. “Flying is so much quicker than walking…” All the same, she reluctantly landed and began to walk. They soon found the branch where Applejack was left.

“There you are!” cried Twilight. “Where’s Apple Bloom?”

“Irresponsibly left me here ta wander off on her own!” snapped Applejack. “Even though ah shrunk, ah’m still older n’ her by ten years! She ain’t even listenin’ ta me!”

“The way you ignore her,” Spike snarked. “I’m not surprised.”

“She needs ta learn ta respect her elder siblings!” Applejack retorted. “‘Specially since we lost our parents so young n’ Granny Smith can’t do as much as she used ta.”

“Why should she when her siblings don’t respect her?” Spike said. “Respect is a two-way street.”

“That’s right,” Twilight added. “My brother and I have a great relationship with each other. I respect him and he respects me. So, if you want Apple Bloom to respect you, you’ll have to respect her, too. If you don’t listen to her, it’s only natural she won’t listen to you.”

Applejack knew they were right, but, still felt the need to protect her sister. “Still, she wandered off ta find Zecora without tellin’ nopony!”

“Wait,” Spike said. “You’re telling me that Apple Bloom had the sense to try going to ask Zecora before a bookworm like Twilight did?”

“Yeah,” Fluttershy said in her bass voice. “It sounds like it.”

“It wouldn’t be so bad if she just told somepony,” Applejack said.

“Well, you haven’t really been listening to her, so, I can kind of see why she didn’t,” Spike said.

“That doesn't explain why she didn't tell Twilight or you," Pinkie had written on a chalkboard she brought with her. "You listened to her."

“Probably because Twilight and I started arguing briefly about judging books by their covers,” Spike said as Twilight rolled her eyes.

“In any case,” Rarity said. “I suppose we should add, ‘Listen to Others,’ to our list of ‘Personal Aspects to Improve On.’”

“Maybe we should get back to finding Apple Bloom,” Spike suggested. “Which way did you see her go?”

“That way,” Applejack said, pointing at the direction Apple Bloom walked towards.

“Okay,” Spike said. “Maybe we’ll see Zecora’s home. What’s it look like?”

“How should we know?” Rainbow asked. “We’ve only really been in the Everfree Forest once before today and even then, we weren’t looking for Zecora.”

“Everyone,” Rarity said, brushing her excess mane out of one of her eyes. “I think I found something promising.” She pointed her hoof to a tree that had a door and a window carved out of its trunk. A strange green glow was coming from the window, which quickly attracted their attention. The group peeked through the window to see what was up. “Would it be in poor taste to say the decorations look creepy?”

“Yes!” Spike said through grit teeth. “They might be cultural!”

“My apologies,” Rarity said timidly.

They heard the bellicose voice of Zecora. She was singing to herself as she worked on the bubbling water in the cauldron.

“What’s she saying?” Rarity asked.

“I don’t know,” Twilight admitted. “I never really studied Farasian. I never really took any foreign language classes.”

“Well,” Fluttershy said. “We better knock. Hopefully she’ll be up to helping us.”

“This temperature should help those ponies, I presume,” Zecora said in her rhyming dialect. “Now, I just need the assistance of young Apple Bloom.”

Twilight then took a deep breath and walked up to Zecora’s front door. She politely knocked it three times.

Zecora blinked in surprise. “You’ve returned faster than anticipated,” she said before opening the door. To her further surprise, it wasn’t Apple Bloom. “Ah, apologies for that mistake I’ve stated.” She carefully observed them with her strong cyan eyes flashing briefly. “It seems you failed to heed my warning and stayed even longer, triggering the effects of the plants quicker and stronger.”

“Yes,” Twilight said sheepishly. “We came here for a few reasons, one of which was hoping that you could help us with a cure for the effects of the Poison Joak. My friends and I tried to find the answer in the Golden Oak Library, but…”

“Twilight shot down attempting to check the one book we didn’t look at yet,” Spike interrupted.

“The occult will not cure us, Spike,” Twilight said. “Anyway, can you maybe tell us more about Poison Joak?”

“Indeed I can,” Zecora answered. “In fact, you will find that the plant’s remedy was already on my mind. I brewed this water of herbs in a bath to cure the plant that just wants a laugh.”

“The Tartarus does that mean?” Applejack asked. She was secretly glad Apple Bloom wasn’t there to hear her say that.

“I think she’s saying that the effects of Poison Joak are little jokes played on us,” Twilight theorized.

“Little jokes?!” Applejack said. “Ya tryin’ ta be clever?!”

“This bath I am mixing is what will help you still,” Zecora said. “The last thing I need is an herb from Ponyville. So, to keep the townsponies from feeling gloom, I need the aid of my new friend, Apple Bloom.”

Twilight looked at the open book Zecora kept on the podium, flabbergasted. “But, I checked all the books in the library and couldn’t find the cure!”

“All of them?” Spike asked despite knowing the truth.

“For the last time Spike, supernaturals can’t help us out here!” Twilight groaned.

“You sure about that?” Spike asked. “You never let me finish reading the title.” He then closed the book to look at the cover. “Well, will you look at that? I was right. The one book in the library you didn’t check.”

Twilight looked at the cover of the book and read its title aloud. “Super Naturals: Natural Cure-Alls and Remedies that are Simply Super.” Seeing this, Twilight grew very ashamed at herself. “I…. I’m so sorry, Spike. I had the answer all along. If only I had bothered to look inside. Spike, can you ever forgive me?”

“That depends,” Spike said with a grin. “Do you admit you literally judged a book by its cover?”

“Yes, Spike,” Twilight said sadly. “I literally judged a book by its cover. I made my mind up too soon.”

“Do you acknowledge that you were basically doing to the book the same things your friends did to Zecora back at Sugarcube Corner?” Spike asked, his grin not faltering.

“Well, it wasn’t as bad as judging Zerora,” Twilight snarked back.

“Okay, so you’ve made your point…” grunted Spike. “But, the principle still applies.”

“Okay, yes, I acknowledge it,” Twilight said.

“Are you a dork?” Spike asked with a sly grin.

“Well, are you?” Twilight slyly retorted back.

“You always have to win these types of arguments, don’t you?” Spike grumbled. “So much for learning your lesson.”

The others had ashamed looks on their faces as they remembered what they said about Zecora. So, they apologized to her. “No need to say you’re sorry,” Zecora said. “I already know you’re not bad ponies. You were misguided, of this there is no doubt. But, thanks to my special gift, I know what you’re about.”

“You mean to say,” Rarity began. “You have Mystic Eyes as well?”

Zecora nodded. “Three of you possess Mystic Eyes of Truth, Detail, and Submission,” she said as she respectively pointed to Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy before pointing to her own eyes. “My Mystic Eyes are that of Intuition.”

“That’s incredible,” Fluttershy said. “Do your eyes hurt sometimes, too, or is it more like Rarity's case?”

“My Mystic Eyes are of the passive variety,” Zecora said. “Which is quite common in my country, Farasi.”

“I think I remember once reading that the Mystic Eyes of Intuition let the user see the true nature of one’s character,” Twilight said. “Is that true?”

“Very true,” Zecora said with a smile. “Which is why I had my own stance, of why I was not before given a chance. I knew it was uneasy to get a new start and it took the one with a truly pure heart. One devoid of prejudice. I merely waited for one with such a heart to assist.”

“Do all zebras talk in rhyme?” Rainbow asked.

Zecora chuckled to herself. “Some of us do,” she answered. “My personal specialty. And you would have learned this had you got to know me.”

“Really layin’ it on thick, ain’t ya?” Applejack sighed. At that moment Apple Bloom returned.

“Zecora,” Apple Bloom said. “Ah brought the herb ya needed.” She noticed the others. “What’re y’all doin’ here?”

“We were hoping Zecora could cure us,” Pinkie wrote on the chalkboard.

“Took ya long enough ta think o’ that,” the filly giggled. “But, we got us a problem here.”

“What’s the matter, Apple Bloom?” Applejack asked.

“Well, yer small enough ta fit in Zecora’s cauldron,” Apple Bloom said. “But, there ain’t no way the rest o’ y’all can fit in it at once.”

“So, we each go one at a time,” Rainbow said.

“Zecora said that the cure don’t work after the first bath,” Apple Bloom said. “So, if one o’ y’all took the first bath, it wouldn’t work no more.”

“Oh,” Rainbow said. “That is a problem.”

“I think I have an idea,” Twilight said. “Rarity, you said you often soak in giant tubs at the spa sometimes, right?”

“Indeed,” Rarity confirmed. “Why, their tubs are big enough to accommodate all six of us at our normal sizes at once and there’d still be room for Spike.”

“Okay, but, everypony else in town still thinks Zecora’s some evil enchantress,” Rainbow said.

“The term is ‘shaman,’” Zecora corrected. “And I’m an herbalist by trade. I use herbal remedies for anyone’s aid.”

“A little side question,” Rainbow said. “How’d you know Spike wouldn’t be affected by Poison Joak?”

“Gentle dragons inhabit the country I came from,” Zecora said. “A number of them, I proudly call chums.”

Spike smiled at this seeing that Zecora had friendships with dragons. “You must know a lot about dragons,” he said.

“When it comes to dragons, I know a fair bit,” Zecora said. “However, there’s still several unknown facets.”

“I think I know what we should do to help the others see that you’re not bad,” Twilight said.

Later in Ponyville, Twilight and her friends, both old and new, were entering Ponyville. They were approaching the Ponyville Spa. However, the townsponies saw Zecora and quickly hid.

“Look, Rose!” cried Daisy. “How awful!”

“The wicked enchantress has cursed them all.” Rose exclaimed.

“The horror! The horror!” Lily agreed dramatically.

“Run, ponies, run!” said Daisy.

“What in the name of Celestia is going on?” Caramel exclaimed, trotting over to Zecora and the ponies.

“Zecora’s not an evil enchantress,” Spike said. “Everypony’s just being a bunch of paranoid cowards.”

“Ahem,” scoffed Caramel.

“Uh… except you,” Spike sheepishly blushed.

“So… what exactly happened to you girls?” asked Caramel. “And who’s Zecora again? I don’t remember seeing her before.”

“Big surprise,” Rainbow quipped.

“Rainbow,” grunted Applejack quietly, giving a swift kick to Rainbow in her chest. Despite her small size, Rainbow clutched her chest in pain. “Well, sweetie,” said Applejack as she jump onto his muzzle. “Turns out we were all wrong ta misjudge Zecora… n’ Apple Bloom was right ta give her a chance.”

Caramel started to remember the various rumors of Zecora. “Oh… I see,” he said quietly. “Well… I’m really sorry for my own behavior, Zecora.” He looked at Applejack. “Did I hide from her? I don’t remember.”

“He’s got short-term memory loss,” Applejack quietly informed Zecora.

“Thanks to my Mystic Eyes, I quite understand,” Zecora said. “I can see that your patience for him is something few comprehend.”

“Think ya can help us shed some light on Zecora, sugarcube?” Applejack asked Caramel.

“I’ll do my best, Applejack,” said Caramel.

“Thanks, sugar,” smiled Applejack. “Just say ‘we were wrong about Zecora n’ she wants ta help us.’” She then gave Caramel a ti–uh, sma–no, lit–ugh. She gave him a peck on the forehead after climbing his muzzle. Caramel goofily smiled and he went off to tell the other ponies in Ponyville.

Some ponies were more reluctant than others, especially given Caramel’s memory, but, the spa ponies were the first to step in. Which was pretty lucky, too, as the spa ponies were able to help prepare the bath for the girls. Both earth pony mares looked identical aside from inverted mane/tail and coat colors. One had a light cerulean coat with a pale rose mane and tail while the other had a pale rose coat with a light cerulean mane and tail. Both had moderate azure eyes and matching pink lotus Cutie Marks.

“We can’t thank you enough, Aloe and Lotus,” Rarity said.

“For vun of our most valued customers,” the blue mare said in a Swedish accent. “Ve vould do anything. Ja, sister?”

“Of course ve vould,” smiled the pink mare. “Hopefully the bath’s effects vill start to kick in soon.”

No sooner had she said that than Twilight’s horn straightened out and lost the blue spots. “It looks like it’s kicking in already,” Spike said.

The other ponies began to show signs of healing as well, though Fluttershy’s wasn’t as visible given her voice only changed. “Wait,” Apple Bloom said. “Where’s Applejack?!” The other ponies panicked.

Spike, however, remained calm. “Uh, don’t you remember?” Spike said. “Caramel put her in a washtub of the solution so none of the others would accidentally squish her.”

“Heh… oh yeah…” Apple Bloom remembered with a blush.

“And now that ah’m the big sister again,” Applejack said, her voice back to its normal pitch as she was seen her normal size again, which was now to big for the washtub. “Ah also have ta say that ah’m a big enough pony ta realize mah mistake. Ah’m sorry Ah didn’t listen to ya before, Apple Bloom. Ah’m goin’ ta make an effort ta listen ta ya from here on out.”

Apple Bloom grinned before Applejack continued. “But, like Spike said, respect is a two-way street. We both have ta start respecting each other. Deal?”

“Deal,” Apple Bloom said. “N’ Ah’m goin’ ta put in the effort ta tell ya er somepony where Ah’m goin’ before Ah get there. Ah don’t want ta get hurt.”

“Ooh, that’s so much better!” smiled Pinkie. “I never realized how horrible it is not to be able to talk. I mean, I love talking so much, and when I couldn’t talk anymore, my tongue was all ‘ehhhh’! It was the worst!”

“And Spike,” Twilight said. “I feel like drafting another report to Princess Celestia.”

“I don’t know,” Spike said. “It kind of feels like you winning that argument undercuts the lesson.”

“Hmm…” Twilight pondered. “Yeah, maybe… So, yeah. Would you be willing to write down the letter penned by a certified dork?”

Spike gave a satisfied smirk. “It’s basically my job at this point,” he said as he pulled out a quill and parchment. “Okay, let’s get down to business, Twilight.”

Twilight cleared her throat.

“Dear Princess Celestia,
My friends and I learned a valuable lesson this week: never judge a book by its cover. I did so literally by judging a book that I thought was about the occult, but, turns out, it was about natural remedies that are super. My friends, minus Spike and Apple Bloom, judged a book by its cover when they met a zebra named Zecora. Someone may look unusual, or funny, or scary, but, you have to look past that and realize who that individual is inside. Real friends don’t care what your cover is. It’s the contents of someone that matter. And a good friend like a good book is something that can be treasured forever.

Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle.”

Spike finished the draft, rolled up the scroll, and sent it away with his dragon fire while Zecora thoughtfully rubbed her chin. “Oh,” Spike said when he saw this. “I take it you haven’t met a dragon that could send scrolls with magical fire breath, huh?”

“Dragons I’ve seen can’t do that from what I’m aware,” the zebra confessed. “Then again, for all we know, such a thing could be quite rare. I know not everything, this I do not deny. Even so, should you wish to learn more about dragons, you’re welcome to stop by.”

“Thanks, Zecora,” Spike said. “And I will. Maybe Twilight can join us.”

“You can count the rest of us in,” Fluttershy said, her voice back to its normal dulcet tone. “I’d like to know what other creatures live in Farasi.”

“And I would love to know more about your trinkets,” Rarity said. “They could inspire a line of clothing from my boutique.”

“I’d like to know how Farasians celebrate so I can throw a culturally accurate zebra party,” Pinkie added.

“‘N’ if ya have any tasty recipes,” Applejack said. “Ah’d want ta know what ya like ta eat.”

“We zebras are like ponies in the fact that we eat grass,” Zecora said. “Though, sadly, we cannot have Cutie Marks grace our behinds.”

“‘Behinds?’” Spike said. “That doesn’t rhyme with ‘grass.’”

“You don’t want to know, Spike,” muttered Twilight under her breath.

Fluttershy cleared her throat. “But… if you don’t have Cutie Marks… then what’s that swirly pattern on your flank?”

“We zebras cannot have Cutie Marks in the way that you ponies do,” Zecora explained. “So, instead, we decorate our flanks with tattoos.”

“That’s so cool,” Rainbow said. “I bet it’s tough living with lions, your natural predators.”

“Oh, we zebras have found ways,” Zecora said. “To make lions behave like kittens who love to play.”

“Ooh, that I have to see!” giggled Fluttershy. “Especially when lions are cubs. They’re so cute!”

“They may look pleasant, but, a word of advice,” Zecora said. “Even when facing cubs, it’s best to think twice.”

“I know,” said Fluttershy. “I’m always careful with animals.”

Spike smiled. “I have a feeling this’ll build bridges,” he said.

“Miss Zecora,” said the blue-coated spa pony. “I simply must know ze recipe for zis bath. It is simply luxurious.”

“Well, you’re in luck, Lotus,” Spike said. “The recipe’s in a book at the library. Could I use one of your spare business cards?”

“Yes, you may,” answered Lotus, handing one to him. Spike scribbled the title of the book to look for.

“Look for this title,” Spike said as he gave it back.

“Zank you,” Lotus said. “I vill take notes of vhat I read in it. I have two veeks to return it after I check it out, ja?”

“Correct,” Twilight confirmed.

“Zank you,” Lotus said gratefully. “I’ll make sure to stop by ze library to pick it up.”

End of chapter.

Author's Notes:

First chapter of the new year.

In this one, I had Spike be more involved and I also addressed the double standards of the original episode. Seriously, none of them made a big deal out of Spike being in town, yet, they panicked and hid from Zecora, who's more like them than Spike could ever be?

I also completely eliminated Pinkie's "Evil Enchantress" song and, thanks to Spike's involvement, stopped the ponies from jumping to conclusions based on flimsy superficial evidence.

As for how the Mane 6 became affected so suddenly, my idea is that the longer one makes contact with Poison Joak, the quicker the effects take root.

If you're enjoying the story so far, contact me via private messages if you'd like to help make future chapters.

UPDATE 1/17/23: Fixed Cheerilee's name.

Chapter 10: Swarm of the Century (S1:E10)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 10: Swarm of the Century

It had been three days since Twilight, Spike, and their friends befriended Zecora. In that time, the other ponies got used to seeing her around and (with some lectures from Spike) welcomed her as an equal. Since nopony hid from her anymore, Zecora would visit Ponyville more often.

During that time, Princess Celestia had written to Mayor Mare, saying that she would come to visit Ponyville after the third day. On said day, Fluttershy was picking flowers for a flower arrangement. As she collected them, she sang a little song to herself.

“La la la la la la la la,” she sang softly. One squirrel presented a dandelion to Fluttershy, only for a gust of wind to blow it away. "Thank you little squirrel, but, remember, these flowers are for Princess Celestia when she comes to town. Only the prettiest ones will do for her." Fluttershy spoke kindly, then went back to singing. True, Princess Celestia wouldn't be visiting for another day, but, it never hurt to be prepared ahead of time.

As Fluttershy went to pick another flower close by a basket full of apples, she heard a light chirping noise. This caught her by surprise and she hid behind the basket.

"That's an unusual bird sound," she said to herself. “Who’s there?” The chirp came again, this time revealing itself as a small, blue colored, ball-like creature with two green eyes, and four tiny wings. Fluttershy had never seen this kind of creature before, but, she was never one to miss out on making a new animal friend. Though, there was something vaguely familiar about it. "Hello, little guy. I've never seen anything like you before," she greeted in a soft tone. "What's your name? Mine's Fluttershy."

The unusual creature didn’t answer, however. Instead, it sniffled a bit and gave a faint whimper. “Oh, are you hungry?” Fluttershy asked. She found an apple and smashed it with her hoof. "There you go. Just in case chewing hurts your teeth."

The creature stopped sniffling, instead turning its attention to the tasty treat Fluttershy had offered it. It quickly devoured not the mashed up apple, but, the entire bucket, leaving no trace of any apples. In fact, the only sound it made was a content belch. But, Fluttershy didn't seem bothered by the creature's big appetite, she simply exclaimed with a gasp. "I guess you were hungry. You probably haven't had a bite to eat in a while."

The little creature let out a content chirp and nuzzled into Fluttershy's mane. "Ooh, you're the cutest little thing ever! I can't wait to show you to all my friends." And Fluttershy set off, seemingly unaware of the now empty bucket of apples that rested nearby.

Meanwhile, at the Golden Oak Library, Twilight was busy fussing over Spike, as he was cleaning the whole library from top to bottom. Of course, she was helping, too, by levitating the various items onto shelves and tables. Hardly one to be patient in a time like this, Twilight grumbled. "Oh! Hurry up, Spike! This place isn't going to clean itself, you know."

Spike was in a grumpy mood since he was helping clean up a mess he didn’t make. “It also didn’t mess itself up.”

"I know, I know," muttered Twilight as she continued to clean up.

Spike put some books away before saying, “I don't see why I always have to be the one cleaning up this place, when half the time you're the one who gets it all dirty. It’s not fair! And I'm still mad about you having that sleepover with Rarity and Applejack while I was away."

"For the last time, Spike, it wasn't intentional to leave you out," Twilight apologized. "You were in therapy at the time and the weather wasn’t ideal for relying on the regular mail system. And we can't worry about that now, we've got more important things to deal with. Princess Celestia will be here tomorrow and I want this place spotless!"

"Funny, I thought this was just an unofficial quick and casual visit." Spike remarked.

“Spike,” Twilight said after a light groan. “When it comes to large social gatherings like this, there’s nothing casual about a visit from royalty. I want this place to be spic and span, and you've barely made a dent in the clutter.”

“Well, maybe you should start reading these books one at a time,” Spike grumpily suggested. “Or at least not leave them lying around everywhere. You know where they go and have magic to put them there without needing a ladder. After all those lectures you gave me about picking up after myself, you can't even follow your own advice?"

Twilight just sighed. She never liked to argue with Spike, but, there were times when he was difficult. “I’m sorry, Spike, but, everything has got to be perfect. We can discuss how to avoid the clutter once the visit is over, but, for now, we need to make sure this visit goes on without a hitch. That can’t get done if we’re just going to stand around and argue.” Then, in a kinder voice, she said. “While I’m in town getting supplies, would you mind putting everything into place as best you can? Whatever you don’t finish up, I can finish up when I get back for you. I’ll even treat you to a few emeralds for the work you did do. How does that sound?”

Spike perked up. “Emeralds?!” he asked with his tail wagging. “You can count on me, Twi!” He then began picking up the books more eagerly.

“Thank you, Spike,” Twilight said. “I’ll see you in a while.” She then opened the door with her magic. I better make good on that promise, she thought to herself. If Spike’s this cranky now, it’ll be even worse if he’s left hungry.

Twilight felt much better once she was outside and, catching a whiff of that lovely summer air, it was truly a beautiful day. It seemed like the kind of day in which nothing could go wrong. And so far, it seemed like the rest of the preparations for Princess Celestia's visit were coming along nicely.

After crossing a bridge, she met up with two earth pony mares who were responsible for the welcome banner. Their names were Berry Punch and Golden Harvest. Twilight looked at the banner. It read, “Welcome Princess Celest.” Twilight wasn’t thrilled about this. “Berry Punch, have you been hitting the bottle again?”

“Uh… no…" she trailed. “Maybe…”

"We missed the last two letters of Princess Celestia's name because we ran out of room on the banner," sighed Golden Harvest.

“The problem isn’t that the banner was too small,” Twilight said. “You wrote the letters too big. Take it down and start over.” Then, she left without another word.

As Twilight continued, she came across a different earth pony named Bon Bon. She was watering a patch of nearby flowers with a watering can.

“Excellent work, Bon Bon,” Twilight encouraged. “I had my doubts when a candy maker like you was put in charge of watering the flowers, but, you surprise me with your competence.”

Bon Bon gave a grateful nod and continued with her work. Twilight then continued to Sugarcube Corner.

"Hi, Pinkie Pie, hello, Mr. and Mrs Cake," greeted Twilight. “How’s preparations for the banquet coming?”

“Um, well,” Mrs. Cake said nervously. “The preparations would be better if not for…”

She then pointed to the banquet treats being partially eaten. The culprit was revealed to be Pinkie herself.

“Pinkie!” Twilight exclaimed. “What in the wide world of Equestria are you thinking?!”

“I’m thinking that these treats should be tasted to be sure they’re worthy of the royal tongue,” Pinkie said innocently.

“At the rate you’re ‘tasting,’ they won’t touch the royal tongue at all!” Twilight scolded.

“Well,” Mrs. Cake said. “Carrot and I better get to baking again.”

“Honestly, Pinkie,” Twilight said. “Why do the Cakes entrust a selfish mare like you with anything?”

At that comment, Pinkie stopped herself from biting into a red velvet cake. “Ex-CUSE me?!” Pinkie said, her normal cheery voice gone. “You call taste-testing the treats to make sure they’re not poisoned selfish?!”

“What are you talking about, Pinkie?” Twilight asked. “Who would try poisoning the princess? For that matter, who would be stupid enough to think that would even work? She’s over 1,000 years old and she’s still in her prime. Plus, her sister spent 1,000 years on the moon with no food, water, or air and she’s still alive and well! Okay, she’s a bit weakened due to her Nightmare Moon transformation and purification 1,000 years later, so, ‘well’ might be pushing it, but, that’s besides the point!”

Pinkie was about to answer Twilight’s question, but, she stopped to really think about that. “That’s actually a good point,” the party mare conceded. “I’m sorry, Twilight. I’m sorry, Mr. and Mrs. Cake.”

“It’s okay, dearie,” Mrs. Cake comforted. “Maybe you should stay outside while we try to replace everything you took a bite of.” Pinkie looked around and had a hard time spotting a treat she didn’t take a bite of.

“Tss… yeah…” Pinkie admitted with a wince. “Guess I overdid it.”

“It’s okay,” Twilight said. “And, I’m sorry if I went a bit overboard, too. I just really want this visit to go well.”

Just then, Fluttershy came sliding in, as she greeted. "Twilight, Pinkie, you won't believe..." But, as she slid she took notice of Twilight and Pinkie's faces and hastily apologized. "Oh, I'm sorry. Uh, am I interrupting something? Is this maybe a bad time?"

“We were actually heading outside right now so the Cakes can fix my mess,” Pinkie said. “You can tell us outside.”

So, the three friends met up outside of Sugarcube Corner.

“What did you want to tell us, Fluttershy?” Twilight asked. “Did you want to have another tea party with Spike?” Ever since the encounter with Razer, Fluttershy had been inviting Spike over for tea parties to bond with him.

“Maybe after the visit,” Fluttershy said. “But, I wanted to show you something I came across that I’ve never seen before. It’s one of the cutest things I’ve ever seen.” She turned to her mane as she instructed. "Come on out, little guy. It's okay. No one's going to hurt you."

There came a series of purrs and chirps, before three similar looking, ball shaped creatures appeared. One was blue, another was red, and a third was yellow. Fluttershy seemed to be surprised by this. "Three?" She asked with a gasp and then, to the blue one, she asked. "Did you invite friends without asking me?"

“What are those?” Twilight asked. “I’ve never seen anything like them before!”

"I'm not sure. And I'm also not sure where these other two came from, I only found the blue one," Fluttershy answered, sounding rather surprised at the existence of three creatures instead of one.

“I’ve seen those before,” Pinkie said. “They’re parasprites and they’re nothing but trouble.”

“Para-what?” Twilight asked.

“And,” Fluttershy asked. “What do you mean by trouble?”

“Take your eyes off them for even a second,” Pinkie said. “And they’ll eat every edible thing in sight and multiply by barfing. Now, I need to find a trombone.”

“A trombone?” Twilight asked. “Why do you need a trombone?”

"Well, it's a bit of a long story and it involves going all the way back to my fillyhood," Pinkie answered. "You really want to know? Because it's not pretty."

“If these parasprites are troublesome,” Twilight said. “Then, we should know how to get rid of them, even if the reason why might not be a pleasant one. Besides, I need to look for an emerald for Spike anyway.”

"I'd like to hear the story, too, Pinkie, if you don't mind that is," Fluttershy encouraged.

“Well,” Pinkie said. “I may not like telling it, but, you guys deserve to know, so here we go. Fluttershy might already know this, but, I wasn’t born in Ponyville. Instead, I was born and grew up on a rock farm in the town of Ponypalooza.”

“That sounds more like an event than a location,” Twilight said. “Wait, a rock farm?! As in one of those farms where ponies collect rocks and add chemicals and water so that rocks will grow? Some potentially into geodes?”

“The very same,” Pinkie answered. “Though, full disclosure, Ponypalooza is one of several names the town had. It was also called Rockville and Western Equestria at some points in time. They keep changing it for whatever reason.”

“Still, I never thought a pony like you would’ve grown up in a place like that,” Twilight said.

“I told Spike that my family mined rocks on the day you two came here,” Pinkie said. “Remember? You poured hot sauce in your drinking cup?”

“Oh,” Twilight said before sheepishly wincing. “I wasn’t really listening there. I kind of tuned you out.”

“Anyway,” Pinkie continued. “I lived there with my mom and dad, Cloudy Quartz and Igneous Rock Pie. And there are also my sisters, from oldest to youngest, Limestone, Maud, and Marble, but, those are mostly nicknames. I’m the second youngest of them. There was also Granny Pie and Nana Pinkie who would visit sometimes. On one such day, Limestone brought home a very unusual creature.” And here is how the rest of Pinkie's story unfolded:

At the Pie Rock Farm, everypony was gathered at the dining room table. Everypony, that is, except one. This was a fact that did not escape the amber eyes of the Pie family patriarch, Igneous Rock Pie. He fidgeted with his black stetson hat, something he usually did when he was trying to keep his anger under control. "Where is Limestone?" he inquired of his daughters seated at the table. "Truly, she is aware that it is not polite to keep one's family waiting at dinner, is she not?"

“Now, Igneous,” Cloudy said calmly. “There is no need for concern. I am certain Limestone would not keep us waiting for no reason. She might be in the washroom washing up before supper.”

“Well, she sure is taking her time,” Marble said in a barely audible whisper.

“Should I go and fetch her?” Maud asked in a monotone voice.

But, there was no need for that, for at that very moment who should come trotting into the dining room but Limestone herself? And was it just the lighting or did it seem like she was hiding something in that opalish gray mane of hers?

“Limeamina Dolly Pie, where hast thou been?” Igneous Pie asked, glaring at his eldest daughter.

“Sorry I’m late, father,” she replied. “But, I found something quite unusual.” She lightly brushed her mane, and out popped four ball shaped creatures with tiny wings, they were blue, pink, gray, and brown in color.

“Hey,” Pinkie squeaked. “Looks like your little friend has other little friends!” She was fascinated by the brightly colored creatures that stood out amidst the dull grays and browns of the rock farm.

“Limestone,” Cloudy scolded. “What have we told you about bringing in unwanted pets into the house? You know what your father has said about pets.”

“But, they look so cute,” cooed Marble. “Please let us have one each.”

"Now, children, it is not for you to decide," Cloudy cautioned. "Your father holds the final say and if he says no, then that means no. There will be no debating it afterwards."

“We promise we’ll take care of the little guys,” Limestone pleaded. “We'll feed them, walk them, clean up after them, and give them baths. They’ll be so well-behaved, you’ll hardly notice them.”

Igneous was about to say “no,” but, before the words left his mouth, he thought back to when he was a colt and asked his parents if he could have a pet, which they declined. He didn’t want his daughters to feel the same disappointment he did, so, he reluctantly said, "Limestone, Maud, Pinkie, Marble, you may keep these... whatever they are called. Each of you may take one and claim it as your own."

The four fillies cheered (though, Maud and Marble were still at low volume) and they each took one of the little creatures.

“Come on!” smiled Pinkie. “Let’s have a celebration in our rooms!”

“Just a minute, young ladies,” Igneous declared. “Let it be known that you will be responsible for taking care of them. Your mother and I will not be assisting you at all," Igneous quickly added. "I do hope you will understand that having a pet and caring for it is a very big responsibility. And that will include making sure these pets are house broken and properly trained. Are you sure the four of you are up for the task?" One by one, each of his daughters said yes, and then Limestone offered each of her younger sisters the colored creature they had expressed an interest in, keeping the blue one for herself.

“Now, if no more matters are to be addressed, let us enjoy our meal,” Igneous said. Limestone quickly made her way over to the table and nothing more was said as the Pie family enjoyed a delicious supper of rock soup.

Day turned into night and the Pie family, with its new additions, went to bed. However, during the night, an unexpected noise caught Pinkie’s attention. In her half-asleep state, she thought it was her stomach digesting the meal and ignored it. However, as the noise persisted, she began to realize that it was the sound of buzzing. She opened her eyes and turned on the lights in her bedroom to see that the entire room was swarming with Parasprites. "Hey, what's the big idea?!" Pinkie complained. "You weren't supposed to invite friends, Mom and Dad won't let me keep all of you!"

But, the creatures did not care. They continued to press against Pinkie’s bedroom door trying to force it open. "I'm sorry, but, all of you have to leave. Mom and Dad don't like loud parties after dark. I only want Artie I, the pink colored one, to stay," Pinkie grumbled as she got out of her bed, trotted to the bedroom door, and opened it. That was a mistake, the creatures zoomed right out the door and began to fill the hallway. "Hey, where are you going?! The back door's this way!" Pinkie shouted at the creatures, but, they took no notice.

“You too, Pinkie?” A familiar flat-toned voice asked. It was Maud, Pinkie’s older sister.

"What do you mean 'you too'?" Pinkie asked Maud, suddenly stricken with worry. But, before Maud could say anything, there came the sound of a frantic scream from the kitchen. “Never mind, I think I got it.”

Pinkie and Maud rushed to the kitchen, surprised to see the light was already on. And what they saw was enough to make even Maud's eyes widen (something that almost never happened).

There were Limestone and Marble overwhelmed by a massive swarm of the very same creatures that were in Pinkie and Maud’s rooms. All around them, the creatures were devouring every food item in their paths, leaving Limestone and Marble in a state of near panic.

“How did so many of these creatures get here?!” cried Limestone. “We only had one each last night.”

Pinkie caught sight of a blue Parasprite finishing up eating a piece of food. After it swallowed the food, it looked like it was about to upchuck. It coughed up a small brown blob. The blob hovered in midair and it transformed into another Parasprite. “Uh-oh,” she said.

“What’s all the commotion about,” asked an aged feminine voice. “It isn’t wise for young ponies to be up and about so late at night.” From the shadows, an elderly-looking earth pony mare appeared. Her coat looked almost like Pinkie's, except it seemed to have lost its luster and was mostly a dull and faded shade. Her mane and tail were just like Pinkie's (or at least how they had been since Pinkie got her cutie mark, but, that’s another story), except they were a ghostly white in color. And her eyes were a faded blue in color.

“Oh, great!” Limestone exclaimed, temporarily forgetting her worries. “Now we woke up Granny Pie! Now we have to hear one of her crazy old breezie’s tales.”

“Hey!” Pinkie exclaimed. “I like Granny Pie’s old breezie’s tales!” Pinkie was always so close to Granny Pie. Especially ever since the old mare had taught Pinkie how to laugh away her fear of the darkness.

“We didn’t mean to wake you, Granny,” Marble hastily apologized. “It’s just that Ed got hungry in the middle of the night and I thought I’d get up to feed him. Things got crazy so fast.”

"Pinkie and I had the same problem, except ours apparently didn't want to wait until they were fed," Maud explained. "I saw how they grow. They spit out these tiny hairballs that grow into similar looking creatures with the only difference being their color. Granny Pie, you have to help us."

Suddenly, one of the creatures landed on Granny Pie’s nose. She got a good look and her eyes filled with horror. “Creature of so little size! Is that a parasprite before my eyes?!”

"A para-what?!" All four Pie siblings exclaimed at once.

Looking at the parasprite, Granny Pie was silent, which was highly unusual for the normally eccentric paternal grandmother. She finally said. “Tales of crops and harvests consumed, if these creatures are here tonight, they won’t leave us any time soon! Unless…”

“Unless what?!” Limestone demanded. “Out with it, Granny Pie! How do we stop these things from eating us out of house and home?!”

“There is only one way to be safe,” Granny Pie said. “One way that we can be rid of these invaders. Quickly, there’s no time to waste. We must gather every musical instrument we can!”

The Pie sisters couldn’t believe what they just heard.

“Well, let’s not just stand there!” Granny Pie exclaimed. “Go now, everypony!”

“Have you lost your mind?!” Limestone shouted. “Our livelihood is at stake and your main concern is musical instruments?!”

“I don’t understand it, either,” Maud said. “I don’t see how these are going to help get the Parasprites away.”

Marble was reluctant to say what she wanted to, but, did so regardless. “How do we even know if they're actually parasprites?”

"Come on, girls!" Limestone encouraged, turning her back on Granny Pie. "We'll solve this problem on our own! Mom and Pop will surely know what to do, they ALWAYS have the answers! Am I right?!"

Granny Pie wore a deadpan expression. “You’re seriously going to listen to my rock-headed son’s advice over mine?” She asked. “His old fashioned ways are why we’re still eating rocks to survive even though we can’t digest them!”

Pinkie, being closest to Granny Pie, felt inclined to agree. “She kind of has a point,” she said. “Besides, mom and dad seemed as clueless about what the Parasprites were as the rest of us since dad said, ‘whatever these are called’ instead of parasprites.”

“Celestia bucking dammit,” Limestone muttered under her breath before shouting. “Fine, you win, Granny Pie! Let’s see how well this doesn’t work.”

So, the four sisters and Granny Pie set off at once, looking and picking up every musical instrument they could find.

They managed to gather a trombone, a concertina, a harmonica, a drum, cymbals, and even a sousaphone. Limestone aggressively piled the ones he found. By that point, the parasprites ate all the food and began moving onto the floor, walls, and furniture.

“Very good, my little ponies,” Granny Pie said. “You’ve done me proud.”

“What’s next, Granny Pie?” Pinkie asked, keen to help her grandmother. The old mare began piling the instruments onto her body.

“We’re doomed,” Limestone said pessimistically. “No way she can play all those at once.”

But, Granny Pie gave a knowing smile. In her years of living, she picked up a few trade secrets. “Never underestimate the elderly, Limey.”

Limestone grumbled to herself as Granny Pie finished putting the instruments together. Granny then took a deep breath and she started to play a jaunty polka on the sousaphone part of the mishmash. As this happened, other instruments started to perk up and play in the song. Limestone’s jaw dropped when she saw that not only was Granny Pie playing all the instruments at once, but, the parasprites stopped eating as soon as they heard the music. They enjoyed the music and they even bopped in alternating lines to the beat. Soon, it was a parasprite parade led by a pony with a proficiency for playing many instruments.

Granny Pie led the parasprites out of the house as Igneous and Cloudy Quartz came down the stairs, woken from their slumber by both Limestone’s shouting and the instruments being played.

“What is all of this commotion?” Igneous asked, a yawn escaping from his throat. “It is far too early to start work.” He instantly woke up upon seeing the state of the kitchen and the several parasprites still being led out of the house. “What in Celestia’s name happened here?!”

“Uh,” Pinkie said sheepishly. “Let’s just say that those new pets of ours didn't really work out,” she then looked at the still shocked Limestone. “Also, I think Limey’s broken.”

“Hmm,” Igneous said to himself. “Perhaps this should teach her an important lesson about bringing in strange pets. I did warn you. And mayhaps her cleaning the kitchen will help this lesson stick.”

“I don’t think she’ll be able to right now,” Maud said. “She’s in shock.”

Cloudy gently laid Limestone onto her back and elevated her hind hooves with a rolled dish towel. “A little rest will do her good.”

“Mm-hmm,” Marble said with a nod.

Granny Pie didn’t return until sunrise. When she returned, all but one of her family were there to congratulate her.

“That was amazing, Granny Pie!” Pinkie exclaimed happily.

“Indeed, ma,” Igneous said, holding his hat over his chest. “How did you know that would work?”

“You always listened to your pa over me,” Granny Pie said flatly. “Look how well that’s going. We have to eat rocks to survive. We’re not dragons. Our stomachs aren’t meant to digest rocks. That’s why our—”

“Alright, alright, I see your point,” Igneous interrupted, not liking where his mother’s scolding was going.

“Anyway,” Granny Pie said. “The point is, I know my fair share of things. And, you know, it’s not too late to make some changes around here.” As if to illustrate her point, the sails of the farm windmill fell off.

“Ma,” Igneous said humbly. “I’m willing to try new things and listen to your advice.”

“And that’s how me and my family learned to listen to Granny Pie’s advice even if it doesn’t immediately make sense,” Pinkie said back in the present day. By that point, Rainbow, Applejack, and Rarity joined in to listen. Applejack’s eyes were shining.

“AJ,” said the skeptical Rainbow. “How much of that story is a total load?”

After a short time, Applejack’s eyes stopped shining and she blinked. “None o’ it,” she answered plainly. “Story’s all true. Ah have the Mystic Eyes o’ Truth n’ it still sounds crazy ta me.”

“Well,” Rarity said. “If your Mystic Eyes of Truth say the story is true, then we must believe it. It might not make sense, but, we must understand where Pinkie’s coming from.”

Pinkie noticed something missing from Fluttershy. “Fluttershy,” Pinkie said sternly. “What did I say about taking your eyes off parasprites?”

“Oh!” Fluttershy exclaimed looking back at her wing. “Sorry, it’s a bit hard to listen to somepony tell a story and focus on something else at the same time.”

Pinkie groaned in exasperation. "It's alright, Fluttershy. But, I'll have to be quick if I want to stop those parasprites from destroying Ponyville! I'm sure they've already grown and eaten all the food they can find! Now, where am I going to find a harmonica?" And with that, she was gone in a pink blur of motion.

“I don’t know about you girls,” Twilight said suddenly. “But, I’m going to help Pinkie find musical instruments.”

“Nuts to that!” Rainbow exclaimed. “I’ll just make a tornado to suck them all up at once.”

“And what’ll you do after that?” Twilight asked. “Furthermore, what do you plan to do if Pinkie comes by with instruments like cymbals?”

Rainbow was about to answer, but, she stopped once she started to think about it. “Hmm,” she said. “Good question.” Suddenly, Fluttershy remembered something.

“Um, Twilight?” Fluttershy said. “I vaguely remember skimming through a book with information on parasprites at the Golden Oak Library back when we were under the effects of the Poison Joak.”

“And you’re only telling us this now?!” Rainbow asked.

Fluttershy meekly replied, “I didn’t get a good look at the page and, given the circumstances, I didn’t think learning about a new creature would help us back then anyway.”

“Oh!” Twilight said. “Good call, Fluttershy! After I grab an emerald for Spike, I’ll go and read through the book. Thank you.”

“An emerald for Spike?” Rarity asked. She then fetched one out of her saddle bag. “Here, darling. I just so happen to have a spare one right here.”

“Thanks, Rarity,” Twilight said. “I promised Spike that I’d give him emeralds as a reward for cleaning up the library while I left to check on the preparations.”

“Wait just a minute here,” Rainbow said. “You left Spike, who’s ten pony years old, alone to clean up the whole library?”

“Yeah, so?” Twilight asked.

“We’ve all known Spike for a while,” Rainbow said. “And in that time, we’ve seen that he goes into a small panic when he makes a mess before he immediately goes to pick it up. Plus, a lot of the times we go into the library, we see him cleaning up a big mess of books. Speaking as somepony who habitually makes big messes, I know that Spike’s not capable of making messes that big.”

“I agree,” Rarity said. “Why, just yesterday, when he was helping me out in the boutique, he disrupted my organized chaos. I was upset, but, now, I can see that he was conditioned to clean up messes he didn’t make and that’s hardly fair.”

“It ain’t just hardly fair,” Applejack put in. “It’s ‘bout as far from fair as ya can get.”

Twilight heard all that her friends were saying and suddenly a look of guilt washed over her face.

“Oh, wow…” Twilight said sadly. “You’re right. I shouldn’t put Spike through any of that. I’ve got to go.”

And with that, Twilight ran back to the Golden Oak Library. But, before she even got there, the sound of parade music filled the air. Sounds like Pinkie found all the instruments she needed. Sure enough, Pinkie was playing all the instruments and leading several parasprites behind her as her friends could only watch as Pinkie’s eccentric methods worked. I’ll have to thank her once I finish talking with Spike, Twilight thought to herself. She then made her way back to the library.

At the library, Spike had finally reshelved the last book. He was in a much better mood now. “Phew,” he sighed in relief. “Everything’s cleaned up.”

“Oh, Spike,” Twilight said, tears welling in her eyes.

“I cleaned up the entire library, Twilight,” Spike said. He then turned to see the tears in Twilight’s eyes and became concerned. “What’s wrong, Twilight?”

“I’m a terrible friend,” Twilight said. “I left you to clean up something I should have taken responsibility for. You should be learning how to be a kid, but, instead I’m raising you to be a servant!” She hugged him tight. “Everything you’ve done for me over the years and I barely reward you for it. I don’t blame you for hating me.”

Spike was thunderstruck. “Twilight, I couldn’t hate you if I tried!”

“Y-you couldn’t?” Twilight asked, wiping tears from her eyes. “Even after the way I treated you?”

Spike looked the unicorn straight in the eyes. “You’re the reason I hatched in the first place,” he said. “Even if you sometimes give me the short end of the stick, I put up with it because you brought me into the world. I owe you my life. I don’t remember any of my parents. Your family is the closest I’ll ever get to having my own. It’s thanks to you that I have the skills I do and that I lasted as long as I did. If it weren’t for you, I don’t think I’d make it to ten pony years old.”

Twilight heard all that Spike had said. Her tears of pain had changed to tears of joy.

“Oh, Spike,” Twilight said. “I appreciate having you in my life. And I want to put in an effort to show you more often that I do care.” She then held the emerald Rarity gave her to him. “Starting with fulfilling this promise. This one emerald represents my promise to work on my treatment of you. Once you eat it, my words will symbolically be close to your heart forever.”

Spike looks at the emerald with amazement and a tear of joy welled in his right eye. “Thanks, Twilight.” He then stuffed the emerald into his mouth and swallowed it whole, not chewing even once.

“As much as I hate to ruin this tender moment,” Rarity’s voice called out. Twilight and Spike turned to see that their friends and Pinkie entered. “Could we possibly see the book with an entry on Parasprites?”

“Oh!” Twilight said aloud. “That was the other thing I came back here to get.”

“Hold on there, Twilight,” Spike said as he was free from the embrace. “I just cleaned up your mess. If it’s all the same to you, I’d like to keep it that way for at least five minutes.”

“Alright, Spike.” Twilight said with a smile. “Fluttershy, do you remember any other pages you skimmed through?”

“Well, I think I saw an entry on Ursa Majors and Minors in it,” the yellow pegasus admitted.

“So, the book you’re looking for is Unusual Beasts and Where to Find Them,” Spike said. He then looked for said book. “Ah, here it is. Right under ‘u’.”

“But, you’re facing away from–” Pinkie began before being interrupted.

“The letter u, Pinkie,” Spike clarified.

“Oh~” Pinkie said. “That makes more sense.”

Spike pulled the book out and handed it to the mares. They thanked him.

Twilight opened the book with her magic and scrolled through the pages, until at last she came across the one on parasprites. Sure enough, it depicted an ink image similar to the creatures that had terrorized Ponyville earlier. She read on for a bit, picking up mostly the same information she'd learned from Pinkie's story. But, as she neared the end, she read something that made her gasp and caused her to momentarily lose her focus. Her magic faded and the book fell to the ground with a loud thud. The other mares (sans Pinkie) looked at the passage, which read as follows: "There is no known way by which a parasprite may be stopped once it begins to multiply. If one is spotted, do not attempt to feed it or take it with you. They are considered dangerous due to their unlimited appetite." They all gasped.

“That means Pinkie was the only one of us who had any knowledge on the parasprites,” Twilight said. “If we hadn’t listened to her, Ponyville would’ve been destroyed for sure!”

“Oh, Pinkie,” Fluttershy said. “We can’t thank you enough for helping us!”

“And we’re sorry for doubting you,” Rarity said.

“Uh, somepony want to fill me in on what’s going on here?” Spike asked.

“Can do, Spike,” Pinkie said.

“While you’re being brought up to date with what happened,” Twilight said. “I’ll draft a friendship report to Princess Celestia.”

“Thanks, Twilight.” Spike said. “Okay, Pinkie. Fill me in on the details please.”

As Pinkie began her story, Twilight began writing her report.

Dear Princess Celestia,

Recently, I learned a very important lesson from my good friend, Pinkie Pie. She told me and my other friends about the time when her family's farm became infested with parasprites and her grandmother was the only one who knew the trick to driving them away.

Hearing Pinkie's story and seeing her use it to stop a similar infestation in Ponyville, it's caused me to learn that sometimes the solution to your friends’ problems can come from where you least expect it. So, it's a good idea to stop and listen to your friends' opinions and perspectives, even if they don't always seem to make sense. Sometimes, the most unconventional option could be the solution you've been looking for.

Your faithful student,

Twilight Sparkle

Twilight smiled as she examined the letter for any mistakes. There weren't any, the report was perfect and ready for Princess Celestia's viewing eyes. “Spike, could you send this, please?”

“You got it, Twilight.” Spike said. He then sends it with his magic dragon fire.

“Thanks,” Twilight said. “Now, we better make sure the Parasprites didn’t do too much damage.”

So, after Pinkie explained the details to Spike, the friends gathered outside to see how Ponyville was after the Parasprites’ swarm. They also made it a point to fix any damage they found in preparation for the princess.

End of chapter.

Chapter 11: Fall Weather Friends (S1:E13)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 11: Fall Weather Friends

Summer was winding to a close in Ponyville. The leaves were changing from varying shades of green to more warmer shades of brown, red, and gold. On this particular day, the last day of summer, Twilight was carrying Spike on her back to Sweet Apple Acres, where Applejack and Rainbow were playing horseshoes.

“Hi, girls,” Twilight said with a smile. “Looks like you two are having an exciting game.”

“Ah’ll say,” Applejack said. “Rainbow did a mighty good pitch fer a pony who works with her head in the clouds.”

“Heh,” Rainbow chuckled sharply. “You think that’s good? You haven’t seen anything like this yet! Try and beat that, cowmare.”

Applejack picked up a horseshoe with her mouth. She used her neck muscles to toss the horseshoe at the goal stake. Sadly, it didn’t reach beyond the one Rainbow threw earlier.

“Ah, nuts,” Applejack said to herself.

“Ha!” said Rainbow. “Looks like this pegasus can pitch better than the workhorse. The idea is to get closer to the stake.”

“Take it easy, Rainbow,” Twilight said. “It’s only a game.”

The two ignored her. “Ya got another throw, pony girl,” Applejack said.

Rainbow took her horseshoe in her mouth. She then used her neck muscles. Unfortunately, she put a bit too much effort into her shot and her horseshoe went over the stake. “Ow!” Big McIntosh’s voice groaned.

Rainbow winced at this. “Sorry, Big Mac!” she called.

Applejack, however, found the fact that Rainbow overshot the stake amusing. “Ya couldn’t hit a barn door with a throw like that,” she laughed.

Spike was surprised. “Uh, are you forgetting the fact that your brother got hit in the head with that throw?”

“It was an accident,” Rainbow said.

“Ah’m okay,” Big Mac said. “Just another competition between y’all two. Shoulda worn mah hoofball helmet.”

“Another competition?” Twilight asked.

“You mean you two competed before?” Spike asked.

Once again, the two mares ignored them. “I still have the closest throw, Applesmack,” Rainbow said.

At that point, Caramel entered. “Looks like they’re at it again,” he said.

“Caramel,” Spike said. “Think you can fill us in on what’s going on? Clearly, we’re not going to get anything out of Applejack and Rainbow.”

“They’re in the ‘competition zone,’” Caramel answered. “They’ve been trying as hard as they can to make sure they have an answer as to which of the two is more athletic.” He sighed. “The problem is they get so wrapped up in outdoing each other that they lose track of the world around them sometimes.”

It was at that moment, Applejack was ready to take her next shot with her horseshoe. She threw with just the right amount of strength and hit the stake.

“Yee-haw!” Applejack cheered. “It’s a ringer!”

Rainbow could only look in bewilderment. “I lost…”

“Ah, don’t feel bad, Rainbow.” Applejack said. “Ya played pretty good.”

“I hate losing,” Rainbow said.

“Really, Rainbow?” Applejack said in frustration. “Didn’t ya learn nothin’ from last year’s Runnin’ o’ the Leaves?”

“Yeah…” Rainbow said. “I still don’t like losing, though.”

“What’s the Running of the Leaves?” Twilight asked.

“Well, you know how Ponyville is an earth pony-founded community?” Rainbow asked.

“Yes,” Twilight said. “Spike and I learned about that before.”

“Well, it’s a tradition in these here parts,” Applejack explained. “We run through the Whitetail Woods, tryin’ ta shake the autumn leaves from the trees.”

“But, wouldn’t the leaves fall just fine on their own?” Spike asked. “That’s how it is in Canterlot.”

“Nope,” Applejack said. “The stems on the leaves are stronger in Ponyville’s forests, so, the force o’ our runnin’ helps.”

“Yeah,” Caramel said. “Am I remembering right or were you two banned from future participation after what happened last year?”

“We were,” Rainbow said in a noticeably embarrassed tone. “Not our best moment.”

“Well, if ya hadn’t started cheatin’ in the first place,” Applejack accused. “It wouldn’t’ve been so bad.”

Apple Bloom walked by. “Not settin’ a good example o’ bein’ a good sport, sis,” she retorted. Applejack blushed sheepishly at this.

“Do Spike and I want to know the whole story?” Twilight asked.

“Speaking personally,” Spike said. “I’m a little interested.”

Rainbow and Applejack looked at each other. “Well, guess it’s time to rip off the old bandage,” Rainbow said.

“Yeah,” Applejack said. “Get comfy, ‘cause it’s a doozy.” They all sat down. “It all started with the Iron Pony Competition.” And this is how the story unfolded:

One year ago, Applejack and Rainbow had gotten together. They would have an Iron Pony Competition to see who was the most athletic of the two. Mayor Mare had agreed to be the impartial judge.

“Alright,” Mayor Mare said. “We will have a series of matches to find out which of these two mares can successfully power through them. Our first match is cattle roping. With thanks to Daisy Jo’s son, Ash, to act as our cattle, we will see who can rope him the quickest.”

A scrawny white and brown bull calf stepped into a fenced area, not looking happy.

“I don’t know about this,” Ash said softly. “I’m always getting roped into these things.” At that point, Applejack managed to lasso his neck, frustrating him. “Thank you!” he said sarcastically. “Thank you for making my point for me!”

“Sorry, Ash,” Applejack said. “That’s just how the game goes.”

Rainbow, however, somehow managed to tie up her own hooves and end up dangling from a tree. “How the Tartarus did that happen?!” a spectator shouted.

“I, uh…” Mayor Mare said, briefly confused. “I don’t know how that happened, but, the winner of this match is Applejack.” Fluttershy placed an apple sign with the number 1 on Applejack’s part of the scoreboard.

Next was a short maneuvering race. The object was to run through a line of barrels while weaving passed them. “Since Applejack won the first event,” Mayor Mare said. “She will go first.”

Applejack nodded and she walked up to the starting line. She stretched all four of her legs as a warmup. Mayor Mare then blew a whistle and Applejack took off running. The second the whistle blew, a unicorn mare with a lilac coat, iris mane and tail with a light glaucous streak, raspberry rose eyes, and a Cutie Mark of two encircling dolphins used her magic to start a stopwatch. Applejack ran as fast as her legs could carry her, careful to avoid all of the barrels. However, on the last barrel at the finish line, she nudged it without meaning to. “Dagnabbit!” she groaned.

After Applejack ran the course, the unicorn stopped the stopwatch and recorded the time on a notepad. She did count Applejack’s mistake and recorded it as well. “What’s the time, Sea Swirl?” Mayor Mare asked the unicorn.

“17 seconds,” The unicorn, whose name was Sea Swirl, answered. “Although, there is a five second penalty for nudging one barrel.”

Applejack seemed to be struggling to count. “How much is that?” she asked. “Ah ain’t good with math ‘less it involves apples.”

“22 seconds in total,” Mayor Mare answered. “If you hadn’t nudged the barrel, you would’ve broken your record from last year’s rodeo.”

“Ah, nuts,” Applejack said to herself.

“Rainbow Dash,” Mayor Mare called. “You’re next.”

Rainbow stepped up. She tried to put on a brave face, but, her sweat betrayed her. Mayor Mare then blew her whistle. Rainbow ran around the barrels as best she could while consciously not using her wings. She soon finished her run, even managing not to hit the last barrel. Sea Swirl stopped her stopwatch and looked at the time.

“18 seconds,” Sea Swirl said.

Both mares looked surprised. “18 seconds?” Applejack said. “That ain’t half bad, Rainbow.”

“Well, I would’ve used my wings,” Rainbow admitted. “But, that would’ve made me touch the barrels and let’s face it, the wind from my flying would’ve blown the barrels away. Literally.”

“Rainbow Dash wins the Barrel Weave,” Mayor Mare announced. Fluttershy then put an apple sign with the number 1 on Rainbow’s side of the board.

“Ah’m impressed,” Applejack said. “Keep it up. Er, down, ah should say.” She then glared at the pegasus. “Don’t go gettin’ used ta winnin’, though.”

“Heh,” Rainbow said. “Bring it on. What’s the next event, Mayor Mare?”

“The Carnival Strength Tester.” Mayor Mare answered.

Applejack gave a confident smirk.

A short time later, the Carnival Strength Test machine was set up. Usually, this kind of mechanism would require a mallet to force the weight up to ring the bell. This mechanism however requires a pad that requires a buck to activate. “Since Rainbow won the previous event,” Mayor Mare said. “And taking into account Applejack’s strength, Rainbow will go first.”

Rainbow stretched her back legs a bit and then walked up to the mechanism. The weight hit the bell.

“A good show,” Mayor Mare said. “Now, Applejack. It’s your turn.”

Applejack confidently strutted to the pad. With a mighty kick, she not only sent the weight up, but, she also knocked the bell off of the top. The pad shattered with the force of Applejack’s kick. “Saw that coming,” said a spectator.

“Years o’ applebuckin’,” Applejack simply said. Fluttershy added an apple sign with the number 2 painted on it to the scoreboard.

Rainbow wasn’t pleased with the outcome. This was totally fixed, she thought. I’ll get back at her for this!

The next match involved bronco busting. Ash was being pushed into a different fenced area. “This is fertilizer!” he protested. “Haven’t I been humiliated enough today?”

“Ah promise ya won’t get hurt,” Applejack said comfortingly. The calf was placed on the farm mare’s back. Mayor Mare then blew her whistle and Applejack began to buck about with Ash on her back. Ash held on as long as he could, but, he couldn’t hold on much longer. He was bucked off and he landed on a soft patch of hay in the pen. “See, Ash? Yer fine.”

“I may not be in physical pain,” he said. “But, that did sting my pride a bit.”

Suddenly, the patch of hay shifted to reveal Rainbow underneath it.

“Rainbow?!” Applejack exclaimed. “What were ya doin’ in there?”

“Just giving Calf-Pint another ponyride,” Rainbow said.

“How’d you even get under that hay without anyone noticIIIING?!” Ash panicked as Rainbow began bucking around more aggressively.

“The same way I’m going to win this match,” Rainbow answered. “I’m fast!” She then threw Ash right off her back and sent him flying into the scoreboard. Fluttershy had to ask somepony else to change the score as she quickly and tenderly cared for any injuries that Ash received from the mishap.

“Are you okay, Ash?” Fluttershy asked.

“No,” Ash said in a deadpan voice. “I’m pretty far from being okay. I’m pretty sure at least one of my bones broke.”

As Fluttershy dressed Ash’s wounds, she asked Mayor Mare not to have any more matches that involved Ash’s involuntary help to save him from going back. Mayor Mare agreed and Applejack gave Rainbow a tongue-lashing.

It was some time before the next match in the Iron Pony competition could commence so things wouldn’t be so awkward or heated. First was ball-bouncing. Applejack struggled to keep her bouncing ball upright, but, Rainbow Dash had ease. She was able to bounce a ball on her head and a second one on her hind leg. Fluttershy updated Rainbow’s score to 3 while Applejack’s was still 2. The next was hay bale tossing. Rainbow managed to throw her hay bale a good distance, but, Applejack threw her hay bale further. Applejack’s hay bale landed on top of the cocky pegasus.

“I’m okay,” Rainbow said, slightly muffled. Fluttershy updated Applejack’s score to 3, tying the score with Rainbow.

Next was hoof wrestling. Both mares were evenly matched for a few seconds. It seemed Applejack was going to put on a burst of strength, but, Rainbow gave one big effort and won the match. Fluttershy updated Rainbow’s score to 4. Next was hoofball kicking. Rainbow kicked her hoofball a good distance, but, Applejack’s kick was farther. Once again, the score was tied 4-4. Next was push-ups. Mayor Mare was in the middle keeping count. “95… 96… 97…” Applejack and Rainbow were both straining at that point. “98… 99…”

She cheated in the kicking events, Rainbow thought. Two can play at that! She then used her wings to push herself up on the 100th push-up. Applejack collapsed from exhaustion.

“100!” Mayor Mare said. “Rainbow Dash wins this match!”

Be a good sport, Applejack, the farm mare thought to herself.

Next was the sandtrap jump. Applejack went first. She was able to jump pretty far, but, she still managed to land in the sandtrap. She even wore horseshoes to mark where she landed. She jumped out of the sandtrap so she wouldn’t leave more marks.

“Rainbow,” Mayor Mare said. “Your turn.”

Rainbow took a deep breath and began running. She leapt majestically, opening her wings for more airtime, and she made it all the way across the other side of the sandtrap. That just ain’t fair! Applejack complained internally.

Next was a small race with Applejack and Rainbow having baby chicks on their backs. Applejack managed to have four on her back, but, Rainbow carried eight chicks, four resting on each of her wings. Applejack noticed that the four on her back were missing and grew more frustrated.

Finally, it was down to the last event: tug of war. “Finally,” Mayor Mare announced. “It all comes down to this! The final event! Whoever pulls the other into the mud wins!”

The crowd cheers and the two ponies got started tugging their respective ends of the rope. Applejack started pulling Rainbow closer to the mud. However, Rainbow used her wings to keep herself from falling in and even lifted Applejack off the ground.

“Heh!” Applejack said, trying to talk while still holding onto the rope. “Yeh keh du dah!”

Rainbow saw that Applejack was directly above the mud and didn’t realize it yet. This gave her a sneaky idea.

“Wuh ja seh?” Rainbow asked.

“Yeh keh yuj ya weehs!” Applejack called, the end of the rope still in her mouth. Rainbow knew what she was saying, but, pretended otherwise.

“Ah keh udu sen yeh,” Rainbow goaded.

Applejack, growing ever more frustrated, spat out her end of rope and called out. “Ah said-!” But, before she could continue, realized her mistake. “Uh, oh.” She landed in the mud beneath her.

“Rainbow Dash wins the match!” Mayor Mare announced. “She also wins the Iron Pony Competition!”

“Only ‘cause she cheated!” Applejack snapped in front of everypony.

“Cheated?!” Rainbow asked, clearly appalled by the implication. She flew down and landed in front of Applejack. “What do you mean by that?”

“Don’t play buckin’ dumb, Rainbow,” Applejack shouted. “Ya used yer wings ta win over half the competition! Did nopony else see that?!”

“A.J., calm down,” called a female spectator.

“Y’ALL CALM DOWN!!!” Applejack shouted back while pointing a hoof in said spectator’s general direction.

“You’re in no place to call me out for cheating, Applejack,” Rainbow countered. “This competition was my idea that you agreed to and there’s no rule against using my wings.”

“Ah didn’t think there needed ta be one fer ya ta play fair!” Applejack argued.

“Says the mare who cheated at the kicking events!” Rainbow said.

“ENOUGH!!!” Mayor Mare shouted.

This quieted the two mares right up. Mayor Mare then pulled out an Iron Pony Competition rulebook from the saddlebag she set aside. She opened it to a particular page and read the rule aloud. “The Iron Pony Competition welcomes participants regardless of whether they be earth pony, unicorn, or pegasus and therefore, all participating parties are allowed to use whatever skills and abilities they have at their disposal, such as strength, magic, flight, or any combination thereof, unless the participants unanimously agree otherwise.”

Rainbow and Applejack listened to Mayor Mare reading this rule. Rainbow comprehended it surprisingly well, while Applejack looked as if Mayor Mare was speaking in a completely different language. “The Tartarus does that mean?!” Applejack demanded.

“It means that Rainbow’s right that you agreed to this competition,” Mayor Mare explained plainly. “If you assumed Rainbow wouldn’t use her wings since neither of you agreed to not have her do so, you have nopony to blame but yourself. Besides, you didn’t feel good about being accused of cheating when you used your full strength, did you?”

Applejack was silent and an embarrassed blush showed up on her cheeks. “No,” she admitted.

“And saying that you didn’t say she couldn’t use her wings simply on the grounds that you didn’t think you needed to is a flimsy excuse at best,” Mayor Mare added.

“Well,” Applejack said softly. “Yeah, yer right. Sorry ‘bout that, Rainbow.”

“It’s okay,” Rainbow said. “If it makes you feel any better, I would’ve won with or without my wings.”

“Can ya?” Applejack asked, not believing it for a second. “Why don’t ya prove it?”

“Name the time and place and I’ll gladly do so,” Rainbow said.

“Tomorra,” the farm mare responded. “This year’s Runnin’ of the Leaves is then. I challenge ya to race me in it.”

“Ha!” balked Rainbow. “At least give me a challenge.”

“It will be,” Applejack said. “The main event o’ this race is runnin’. Flyin’ n’ magic ain’t allowed. As ya know, unicorns n’ pegasi can enter and race, but, they ain’t allowed ta fly er use their magic. Doin’ either would defeat the whole point.”

Rainbow considered this. “No wings?” Rainbow said. She then got a confident smirk. “No problem.”

Both mares spat on their hooves and put them together in agreement. They leaned in closer to each other, staring with intimidation. Rainbow slightly broke this intimidation by blowing an adorable raspberry. This caused Applejack to chuckle to herself, Rainbow following afterwards. Then, back to looks of intimidation.

The next day, participants of the race lined up at the starting line. Various earth ponies, pegasi, and unicorns were stretching their legs in preparation. Applejack in particular was stretching her legs while carefully looking them over. Rainbow then stepped up next to Applejack.

“So, Applejack,” Rainbow said haughtily. “Ready to win second place?”

“Ah’m ready ta have a good, clean race,” Applejack retorted. “Ah ain’t makin’ the same mistake twice, so, ah’ll remind ya what we agreed on. YA CAN’T USE YER WINGS!”

“Chillax, AJ,” Rainbow said. “I can win this race with both wings tied behind my back.”

“Uh,” Nurse Redheart asked. “Aren’t your wings on your sides? If so, wouldn’t tying them behind your back require them to be pointing up and forcing them to get closer to each other than they’re meant to, causing agonizing pain?”

“It’s just a saying, Nurse Redheart,” Rainbow said. “Who let her participate? Anyway, bottom line: I’m not going to use my wings, okay?”

However, Applejack registered the “tied wings” part and smirked. So, with her hog-tying rope, she tied Rainbow Dash’s body so that her wings were secured and pressed onto her sides. Rainbow was less than amused.

“There ya go,” Applejack said. “Now yer ready to race.”

“You’re a riot, farm mare,” Rainbow groaned sarcastically.

Suddenly, a voice amplified via acoustic megaphone filled the air.

“Welcome,” the voice said. “To the annual Running of the Leaves race! This is Pinkie Pie, your pie-eye in the sky announcer!”

“And now, we have this,” Rainbow complained. “Can’t wait to hear that chatterbox babbling for the whole race.”

“Did you really say that about Pinkie?” Twilight asked.

“Well, this IS before you and Spike came to Ponyville,” Rainbow said. “Back then, I thought she was a chatterbox who threw parties. She can be at times, but, back then, I thought she was JUST that, nothing more. Now, who’s telling the story here?”

“Right, sorry.” Twilight said. “Proceed.”

“Save the trash talk fer the one’s racin’, Rainbow,” Applejack reprimanded.

“Racers~” Pinkie announced. “Please take your positions!”

Rainbow and Applejack got in position when they heard hoofsteps to their collective rights. There, taking her position at the starting line, was Mayor Mare. This surprised the two mares. “Mayor Mare?” Applejack asked. “What’re y’all doin’ here?”

“Why, I’m racing, of course,” Mayor Mare answered with a smile.

Rainbow burst out laughing. After her laughing burst, she looked and saw that Mayor Mare had a look of confusion on her face. “Oh, you’re serious,” Rainbow said. “But, you’re not an athlete.”

“She’s right,” Applejack agreed. “Yer a politician n’ Granny Smith always said politicians is low-down, lyin’, cheatin’, dirty crooks.”

Granny Smith, who was watching from the stands, spat out the cider she was drinking at the time.

“Yes, I do know of some politicians who are like that,” Mayor Mare admitted. “But, that’s not the case for me. I’m not afraid to get my hooves dirty when it comes to helping citizens of Ponyville. Besides, this is a Ponyville tradition and, as a public official, elected or otherwise, I must participate whether I like it or not. And I DO. VERY much so. Plus, I was the one who officiated your parents’ wedding, Applejack.”

“Alrighty then,” Applejack said. “Good luck to ya, Mayor.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow said with a stifling giggle. “See ya at the finish line… tomorrow.”

“You may laugh now, Rainbow,” Mayor Mare said. “But, I have a tried and true method of getting a pretty high spot in the race.”

“Whatever works for ya,” Applejack said with a supportive smile. Though, she didn’t believe that Mayor Mare had a chance.

“Alright, ponies!” Pinkie announced. “Are you ready?”

The participants got in position. “Get set…” Pinkie said. Then, she started to ring a bell, indicating the race began. “And they’re off!”

Yes, the ponies who were participating in the race were running fast. As they ran, the rumbling of the earth caused the autumn leaves to fall from the trees. In the crowd of ponies, Rainbow and Applejack were tied for the lead.

“Welcome to the official coverage of the Running of the Leaves!” Pinkie announced. “This year, this run is about more than just the weather. It’s about a race to the finish and the two racers who really want to win it: Applejack and Rainbow Dash! As you’re all aware, they’ve had a bit of a grudge match to see who is the most athletic. It’s been that way ever since Rainbow moved here from Cloudsdale two years ago when the Apple Family was still–” she suddenly stopped. “I’m sorry, is it really necessary to read that part? It might hurt Applejack’s feelings.”

“Color commentary, girl!” said a spectator from the crowd. “Be spontaneous, but, still focus!”

“Okay,” Pinkie said. “Well, after you-know-what. So, they started getting themselves stuck in a ‘competition zone.’ If you walk past them when they’re competing without wearing some kind of protection, you’ll know what that means.”

At that moment, Applejack put on a burst of speed. She managed to overtake the cyan pegasus and couldn’t resist looking back to taunt her. “Ain’t so easy without wings, is it?”

“Hmph!” Rainbow grunted to herself. She then gave herself a pep talk. “Come on, Rainbow…show a little dash!” She then began catching up.

“Hold on there!” Pinkie exclaimed via announcement. “Looks like Rainbow took over the lead from Applejack! What an upset!”

“Did you really think I’d let you off that easy?” Rainbow said.

Applejack was clearly annoyed with Rainbow overtaking her. So much so that she didn't look where she was going and she tripped and fell. As she picked herself up, her lead slipped away. “Ah don’t believe it!”

“I know,” Mayor Mare said as she walked up to Applejack. “Isn’t it beautiful this time of year?”

“Not the scenery, Mayor,” Applejack groaned. “That pegasus tripped me! She’s playin’ dirty!”

“I promise you,” Mayor Mare said with a serious look on her face. “She did not trip you.”

“Did so!” Applejack stubbornly insisted.

Mayor Mare shook her head disapprovingly. “Once again, Applejack, you’re being a poor sport and blaming Rainbow for something that wasn’t her fault,” she scolded. “Had you been paying attention to your surroundings, you’d realize that you tripped over a rock you could’ve easily avoided.”

Applejack saw the rock that Mayor Mare mentioned.

“Oh,” she said softly. “Well, thanks fer settin’ me straight, Mayor. Now, ah got a lot o’ ground ta cover ta catch up. See ya!” And she ran off again.

“Wait just a minute there, young mare,” Mayor Mare stated. Applejack stopped. “I will talk to you later.”

Applejack felt a cold chill go down her spine.

“Mayor Mare,” Applejack said. “Ya were right. Mah folks didn’t raise me ta be a bad sport. Ah need ta see this through, but, this time, ah’m playin’ fair n’ bein’ fair ta Rainbow!”

She took off, this time, making sure to watch where she’s going. Mayor Mare smiled contentedly and she carried on at a slow pace.

Applejack managed to catch up with Rainbow again.

“Ya got this, Rainbow!” Applejack said encouragingly. “Sorry fer accusin’ ya fer trippin’ me.”

Rainbow was confused. “I didn’t hear you say that,” she said. “I may have used my wings to give me an edge in the Iron Pony Competition, but, tripping you? That’s low, even for me.”

“Ah know,” Applejack said. “N’ ah’m sorry! But, we can’t dwell on that now. We have a race ta finish!”

Still confused, Rainbow ended up tripping, which Applejack didn’t see as she was too busy watching where she was going.

“What?!” Rainbow exclaimed. “I don’t believe this! Applejack tricked me! I guess that so-called apology was just an act!”

“Don’t you watch where you’re going?” Mayor Mare said. “You tripped on a stump.”

“Oh, I see,” Rainbow said, still clearly annoyed. “A hypocrite is what I see! She accuses me of cheating when she goes around cheating herself!”

“Rainbow, you’re being ridiculous,” Mayor Mare said. “You’re making it sound as if Applejack made that stump grow instantly. Earth ponies can’t do that. You know that as well as I do.”

Rainbow considered this. “Yeah, I guess that would be dangerous,” Rainbow said.

“Remember,” Mayor Mare said as she started to walk off. “This is just a game.”

“That’s right,” Rainbow said. “But, the rules have just changed…” She grinned darkly. “I’ll teach Applejack to call me a cheater.”

The race continued. The racers ran deeper into Whitetail Woods with the autumn leaves falling behind them. Rainbow and Applejack were once again neck and neck.

“It looks like Rainbow is doing her best to catch up,” Pinkie announced. “Applejack is going to find herself in quite a pickle when she sees this!”

“Look, ma,” Rainbow said mockingly. “No wings!”

“As the racers enter the heart of Whitetail Woods,” Pinkie announced. “Rainbow is back in the lead!”

Rainbow spotted a branch in front of her and got a sneaky idea. She grabbed onto it and it was able to stretch without her outright breaking the branch off of the tree. She waited for Applejack to get close enough. When she was, Rainbow let the branch go. It hit Applejack in the face with a thwack.

“Ow!” Applejack said. “Hey!” Rainbow responded by blowing raspberries and deliberately wiggling her rear end at Applejack, who had quickly forgotten her good resolution.

“Why,” Applejack gasped. “She did that on purpose! Oh, it’s on!” She looked at the branch and smirked.

She sat on the branch and she used it as a makeshift slingshot to propel herself further ahead. At that moment, Rainbow was smugly congratulating herself, not realizing her own irony.

“Nice one, Rainbow,” she said. “That’ll show AJ a thing or two.”

The catapulted farm mare only had time to say, “See ya!” as she passed Rainbow.

“What the-?!” Rainbow gasped. “Oh, she has got SOME nerve!”

As she picked up speed, Caramel, who was watching the race from a set of benches in the forest, saw what was happening and didn’t like where things were going. “I better do something,” he said. He made his way to Applejack on the track. “Uh, Applejack, maybe you should dial things back a bit.”

The farm mare was too focused on trying to outdo Rainbow to hear her coltfriend’s sound advice. When she spotted a beehive hanging from a branch, a wicked grin formed on her face.

“Oh, boy,” Caramel said worriedly. Before he had a chance to say anything else, Applejack kicked the tree that the branch holding the beehive was attached to. Said beehive fell off the tree and hit Caramel on the head. “I’m definitely going to be feeling this… over the next few days.”

The bees emerged from the ruins of their beehive and, thinking that Caramel destroyed their home, they began to sting him in various places. The stallion exclaimed and interjected with pain. Hearing those gave Applejack pause. She looked back and saw what was happening to Caramel. She gasped and she used her lasso to pull Caramel away from the bees.

“Go on now!” she snapped. “Git! He ain’t done anythin’ wrong! It’s me!” She slung Caramel onto her back and began trotting faster just as Rainbow was catching up. She stepped on the remains of the hive, which the bees seemed to instantly notice.

“What in Tartarus is going on here?” Rainbow asked. When she saw the bees, she quickly forgot and decided to focus on escaping them.

In her efforts to outrun the bees, she passed Applejack. Well, she thought to herself. That backfired in more ways n’ one.

The bees eventually stopped chasing the ponies and Applejack was able to bring Caramel to Nurse Redheart. She was on the ready in case anypony had a medical emergency. “Please take care o’ Caramel, Nurse Redheart.”

“I will,” Nurse Redheart said diligently.

Little did they know that Rainbow made it to a fork in the path. One way led to a rocky hill while the other led to more trees. The path to the trees was marked with an arrow sign. She looked back and saw Applejack catching up. She smirked and switched the sign around before ducking into the bushes. Applejack saw the sign and went in the direction that led to the hill. Rainbow couldn’t resist laughing at her clever trick. As she laughed, she leaned over the sign, completely unaware that most of the other racers passed her and went the right way. Her laughter was short-lived as she saw Mayor Mare approaching.

“What were you laughing about, Rainbow?” Mayor Mare asked curiously. Rainbow quickly switched the sign back before Mayor Mare could notice. “I expected you to be ahead by now.”

“Oh, just catching my breath,” Rainbow said. “Wait, what do you mean? I am in the lead. I’m sure to win.”

“Take a look in the direction the arrow’s pointing and think again,” Mayor Mare said plainly.

Rainbow looked and saw that most of the other racers had passed her. “Oh, horse apples!” Rainbow exclaimed. “How’d that even happen?! Ugh! Who cares?! I’ll make up for lost ground and win this!” She ran off.

Mayor Mare shook her head. “She’s never going to win if she keeps making mistakes like that,” she said to herself.

Meanwhile, Applejack was still running on the path, not realizing she had gone in the wrong direction. She stopped when she found herself at a cliff. Pinkie spotted her.

“Hi, Applejack.” Pinkie said. “What are you doing up here? There aren’t any trees.”

“Ah know, but, the sign pointed–” Applejack began before it hit her. “Rainbow! How am ah goin’ ta catch up now?”

“Ooh!” Pinkie said. “The rules do say that if a pony gets lost, the announcer pony can give them a ride in the balloon to put them back on track back to where they previously were.”

“Is that so?” Applejack said. Then, she grinned. “How about takin’ me ta the lead?”

“Uh, wouldn’t that be breaking your rule against flying?” Pinkie wisely pointed out.

“Ah said no wings,” Applejack said. “A balloon ain’t wings. Besides, Rainbow started cheatin’ first. If’n she won’t play fair, ah won’t, neither.”

Pinkie didn’t like where this was going, but, she knew it was pointless to argue with Applejack. “Climb aboard,” Pinkie said, tossing down the rope ladder.

Meanwhile, Rainbow had taken the lead again.

“I’ve got this race in the bag!” she said to herself. Suddenly, she saw Applejack swinging from the balloon. “You hypocrite! You said no flying!”

“Ah said no wings,” Applejack said. “Besides, there’s a rule sayin’ if a pony gets lost, the announcer can help them get back on track. Gee~ Ah wonder how ah get lost~?” She added that last bit with a hint of snarkiness, fully aware that she knew what happened. She then landed with her hooves on the ground and took off running again.

Refusing to admit defeat, Rainbow lunged at the farm mare the instant her hooves touched the ground. Soon, they both ended up on a mountainside that gave way underneath them. Neither noticed most of the other racers passing them. Mayor Mare caught up to the two of them. She shook her head in an annoyed manner, tsking to herself. “Honestly, you two,” she said to them. “At the rate you two are going, neither of you will win. The Running of the Leaves is supposed to involve actual running.”

Rainbow and Applejack had listened to the mayor’s words. Then, they got up and dusted themselves off.

“You know,” Rainbow said. “Mayor Mare is right.”

“Ya think so?” Applejack asked.

“Yeah,” Rainbow said. “If you want to beat me… you… better… RUN!” And at that last word, she took off running. Applejack ran off after her. The two came up neck and neck.

“Once again,” Pinkie announced, her voice barely sounding enthusiastic. “Rainbow and Applejack are neck and neck, jockeying for position for the lead.” She then muttered under her breath. “Like it’ll make a difference at this point.”

Rainbow then bumped into Applejack’s side, hoping to slow her down. However, Applejack responded to Rainbow’s bump with one of her own.

“Cut that out!” Applejack demanded.

“No, YOU cut that out!” Rainbow snapped.

“Yer the one what started it!” Applejack called out.

“The Tartarus I did,” Rainbow argued. “You made me trip over that stump!”

“What stump?” Applejack questioned. “Ah didn’t see no stump!”

“Don’t play dumb with me!” Rainbow snapped. “Now, I’ve got a race to finish!”

“Not if ah can help it!” Applejack growled. She lunged at her rival and intended to grab her tail, only to aim too far and cut the rope she herself tied around the pegasus with her teeth.

“Ha!” Rainbow said heartily. “Now all bets are off!” She began to flap her wings, but, Applejack was having none of it.

“Oh, no, ya don’t!” she roared as she tackled Rainbow to the ground.

“Oh, yes, I do!” Rainbow said, kicking Applejack off of her.

At that point, the two were both seeing red and began kicking up dust as the sound of hooves striking flesh were heard by the entire town while the two fought to get over the finish line. Once they crossed and the dust settled, Applejack and Rainbow were covered in bruises, scratches, and dirt, neither looking any better for wear. They looked and saw that in their scrap, they managed to cross the finish line. Rainbow was a few inches ahead of Applejack and she smiled happily.

“I won!” she cheered happily.

“No, ah won!” Applejack declared. “Y’all cheated!”

Pinkie blew the whistle she was given as the announcer loudly, stopping the argument. “You’re both wrong,” she said. “You tied.”

“Tied?!” Rainbow and Applejack asked Pinkie together.

“Fer first?” Applejack asked.

“For last!” Pinkie exclaimed. “You didn’t even make the top 10.”

“Last?!” Applejack exclaimed in shock.

“But, who won?!” Rainbow asked.

Mayor Mare walked up to Rainbow and Applejack. She was sporting a medal around her neck with a green ribbon. “Mayor Mare?!” the duo cried.

“Oh, no,” she said modestly. “Miss Novel of the Golden Oak Library won first place. I, however, got fifth place, which is a personal record for me. Everypony who makes the top 10 gets a medal and this is the first time I managed to.” Applejack and Rainbow looked to see an older, bespectacled blue unicorn mare with a silver mane and tail and a Cutie Mark of a stocked bookshelf wearing a gold medal around her neck as she drank from a water bottle.

“How’s this even possible?!” Applejack asked. “She’s older n’ ya by ten years, Mayor Mare!”

“I may be old,” Miss Novel answered. “But, I have my secrets, my dear. I read several books on the subject of running and they taught me to pace myself and save my energy. Then, when other racers were worn out, I sprinted to the finish.”

“I used the same method in previous races,” Mayor Mare said. “That’s the very method I mentioned before the race started.”

“I-I-” Rainbow stammered. “I don’t believe it! Miss Novel and Mayor Mare beat us!”

“The way you two were horsing around and trying to outdo each other,” Mayor Mare said. “It shouldn’t be so surprising. That reminds me. Applejack, I officiated your parents’ wedding, so, I’m practically like family to you. They raised you better than this. Do you really think they’ll be proud of you seeing what you did today?”

Applejack took those words in and felt a lump in her throat. “No,” she answered. “They’d be rollin’ in their graves. Mah behavior today was just terrible”

“So was mine, Applejack,” Rainbow said with a sigh. “I wasn’t a very good sport. Looking back, it was pretty stupid to think you tricked me into tripping over that stump. You’re a better sport than me.”

“Ah was still pretty bad today,” Applejack said. “Ah even got Caramel hurt while tryin’ ta outdo ya. So, Ah’m powerful sorry ta ya, n’ ah’ll make things right with him, too.”

“It seems both of you learned a valuable lesson today,” said an unfamiliar voice.

The ponies turned to see the owner of the voice. It was none other than Princess Celestia. Ponies around her genuflected at her presence.

“Princess Celestia!” Applejack and Rainbow exclaimed together.

“Wh-what are y’all doin’ here?” Applejack asked with a light stammer.

Mayor Mare adjusted her glasses. “I invited her,” she explained. “I learned that she has a fondness for this time of year and even suggested that she come to witness the Running of the Leaves.”

“Ah’m sorry ya had ta see me be a bad sport, Princess,” Applejack apologized.

“I’m sorry, too,” Rainbow apologized.

“Not to worry,” Princess Celestia said calmly. “I’ve seen much worse over the past millennia. Some even among my own students.”

“Well, ah promise ta be a much better sport,” Applejack said.

“Me too,” Rainbow said. “And we’ll do much better for next year’s Running of the Leaves.”

Mayor Mare laughed heartily, before seriously saying. “I’m afraid you won’t be competing in next year’s race.”

“Why not?” both athletes asked.

“Oh, only the fact that you both ended up trying to out-cheat each other and proceeded to assault and batter each other to the finish line in front of everypony in town,” Mayor Mare said calmly.

“Yeah, buck those two,” a stallion in the crowds shouted. Mayor Mare regarded him with annoyance.

“That’s enough out of you, Ice Cube,” she said before addressing the athletes again. “You both have proven that when you compete against each other, it devolves into a violent row. Until you two can prove yourselves able to compete against each other without reaching a breaking point, you will be barred from participating in future Running of the Leaves events.”

The two athletic mares sadly sighed. “Yes, ma’am,” they sadly complied.

“However,” Celestia decreed. “I do know a way that you two can make it up to me. Because you got swept up in the competition, many trees still have their leaves. So, as soon as your injuries heal, you can both run to shake the remaining leaves free.”

Applejack and Rainbow couldn’t help but smile. They liked the idea.

“Yer highness,” Applejack responded. “Ah bet Rainbow n’ ah can get that job done fer ya. What do ya say, Rainbow? When we get all better, ya up fer one last hurrah?”

“Like you have to ask,” Rainbow said.

“Remember,” Celestia stated. “This is not a competition, so, I implore you not to treat it as such.”

“We won’t, yer highness,” Applejack said. “We’re goin’ ta do somethin’ we should’ve done.”

“What’s that?” Rainbow asked.

“We’re goin’ ta have fun,” Applejack answered.

“Not yet, ya ain’t, Applejack!” a familiar voice called out. Applejack looked to see a rather angry Granny Smith approaching her.

The farm mare gulped audibly. Ah’m in trouble now, she thought. “Ah do somethin’, Granny?”

“Dern tootin’ ya did,” Granny Smith said. “Didn’t ah teach ya nothin’ ‘bout time n’ place when it comes ta the stuff ah say?”

“Yes, Granny,” Applejack said with a low sigh.

Back in present day, Applejack was finishing up the story. “Granny Smith gave me an earful n’ ah wasn’t allowed ta eat apple fritters fer a month after that.”

“Wow,” Twilight said. “That’s quite an ordeal you two went through.”

“Tell me about it,” Rainbow said. “I don’t take losing very well. I kind of need to work on that.”

“Well,” Spike said. “Now you have friends who can help you with that.”

“But, something bugs me, though,” Twilight said. “Why was Celestia so interested in attending a Ponyville race in the first place?”

“If she gave a reason, we weren’t there to hear it,” Rainbow said. “Though, I don’t think it’d make much of a difference if we did know the reason. It won’t change much.”

“Maybe you can ask her yourself some other time,” Spike suggested. “In the meantime, I think we got enough to write a friendship report to Princess Celestia.”

“You’re right, Spike,” Twilight said. She pulled out a quill and scroll from a saddlebag she was carrying. “Ready whenever you are.”

“Wait, were you just using us as an excuse to learn something about friendship?” Rainbow asked.

“That’s kind of the reason the princess had us move to Ponyville in the first place,” Spike pointed out. “Besides, can you really call that a bad thing?”

“Ah guess not,” Applejack said. “If it’s inspiration yer lookin’ fer, friends can inspire ya.”

“Okay, Twilight,” Spike said as he got the quill and paper ready.

End of chapter.

Chapter 12: Call of the Cutie (S1:E12)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 12: Call of the Cutie

It was the second week of school in Ponyville. The school bell rang and various students were seated at their desks, one of which was Applejack’s young sister, Apple Bloom. The students were talking amongst each other until the schoolhouse teacher, Miss Cheerilee, walked up from behind her desk and up to an easel close by. Miss Cheerilee was an earth pony mare with a coat of moderate cerise, a mane and tail of pale, light grayish rose with light ceriseish gray stripes, grayish harlequin eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting three smiling flowers.

“Let’s quiet down, please,” said Cheerliee to the students. "We have a very important lesson to get to." The students’ chatter faded away. "Thank you. Today, we’re going to be talking about Cutie Marks.”

“Bor-ing,” A voice rang from the crowd. Miss Cheerliee glowered at a pink earth filly with purple and white streaks in her mane and tail. The filly subsided.

“You are all roughly around the age where ponies start to earn these special marks and I see most of you have them already.” She gave a look of pride to some of the young fillies and colts. She then shifted to a sterner tone. “However, don’t think it’s escaped my notice that some of you use this as an excuse to harass those who haven’t.”

The pink filly tried to give an innocent look, but, Miss Cheerliee just gave a threatening one right back.

“Now, can anyone tell me when a pony gets his or her Cutie Mark?” asked the teacher.

Another filly, with a bouncy red mane and tail and an off-white coat, raised her hoof. Miss Cheerliee nodded at her. “When he or she discovers that certain something that makes her special!”

“Very good, Twist,” smiled the teacher. “A Cutie Mark appears on a pony's flank when he or she finds that certain something that makes them different from every other pony. Discovering what makes you unique isn't something that happens overnight, and no amount of hoping, wishing, or begging, would make a Cutie Mark appear before its time. As for when I got my Cutie Mark, when I was a filly, I was helping my little cousin learn her ABCs.” She showed a picture of herself, roughly the age of her class now, and a three year old foal beaming at her older cousin. In the background is a filly that looks identical to Miss Cheerilee, though, with a less tidy mane and tail.

Puppy Dog Tails raised his hoof. “Miss Cheerilee?”

“Yes, Tails?” Miss Cheerilee said, acknowledging the colt.

“Would I be correct in assuming that filly in the picture that looks like you is related to you?” he asked.

“Very good eye, Tails,” Miss Cheerilee answered. “Yes. The one with the messier mane and tail is my twin sister, Cherry Blossom.”

This time, another filly raised her hoof. She was an earth pony with a lavender coat color, a turquoise mane, light turquoise eyes, and a pillow Cutie Mark. “Yes, Aura?” Miss Cheerilee acknowledged.

“Why does Cherry Blossom have a funky mane?” the little filly asked.

“Cherry Blossom is something of a tomboy,” Miss Cheerilee explained. “That means that while she’s a mare, she’s more interested in stallion activities such as wrestling.”

Some of the fillies couldn't argue with that.

Sounds like mah sister n’ Rainbow Dash, Apple Bloom noted to herself.

“I, however,” Miss Cheerilee continued. “Preferred to participate in more feminine and scholarly activities. Cherry Blossom makes a living as a masked wrestler now. But, that's part of the beauty of us being different. It unlocks new possibilities. And always be on the lookout. You never know when your Cutie Mark will show or what new meanings could be behind your Cutie Marks you have now.”

Later, it was recess. The fillies and colts eagerly hit the playground. Well, almost all of them. Apple Bloom glanced back at her flank. She was one of the very few students in her class that didn't have a Cutie Mark. She knew there were at least two or three others, but, she didn’t interact with them outside of Twist, who also had no Cutie Mark.

“Want some of my peppermint sticks?” she asked. “I made them myself. I’ve been taking lessons from my big sister, Bon-Bon.”

“Thanks anyhow, Twist,” Apple Bloom said. Puppy Dog Tails approached them, carrying a book in his mouth.

“Is it okay if I sit with you two fillies?” he asked.

“That’s okay with me,” Twist said with a smile.

“Tryin’ ta get away from yer brothers again?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Yes,” the colt answered. He then took a seat. “I envy how you two have better sibling relations.”

“Well,” Twist said. “It’s all about getting to know one another. We may not always get along, but, we would never really hurt each other.”

“I know my brothers as well as I ever wanted to,” Tails scoffed. “Their shenanigans leave me a nervous wreck.”

“Siblin’s are supposed ta drive ya crazy,” Apple Bloom said. “It’s kind o’ their job.”

At that moment, the pink filly from earlier walked up with another earth filly. This one had a cornflower bluish gray coat, a mane and tail in two shades of light azure-ish gray, moderate violet eyes, pale opal glasses, and a Cutie Mark depicting a spoon adorned with a heart. This duo was known as Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. “And here come the upper class twits,” Tails snarked.

“I wouldn't use foul language if I were you,” snarked back Diamond Tiara. “Your relatives wouldn't approve.”

“You know,” Tails said, not the slightest bit intimidated. “My parents may not be around much, but, they’re still better than yours.”

“That lesson on Cutie Marks was so dull,” Diamond Tiara said aloud, changing the subject all too eagerly. “I mean, learning about Cutie Marks is so last week. Silver Spoon, you just got yours a few days ago. I just got mine today. I mean, a lot of us already have ours.”

“Is this going anywhere,” Tails asked. “Or are you here to gloat about how your mom’s head of the PTA and buying your way into good grades?”

“Why yes, it is going that way," grinned Diamond. "I'd give you an A+... if I were in charge of the school." Silver laughed along with her friend.

“No thank you,” Tails responded. “I prefer to legitimately earn my good grades instead of having them given to me for free like a lazy brat.”

“Oh, and everyone is invited to my cute-cenera this weekend."

"It's going to be totally amazing," grinned Silver.

"It's a party celebrating me and my fantastic Cutie Mark. How could it not be?" The two fillies started to do a secret shake. "Bump! Bump! Sugar-lump, rump!"

“Frankly,” Tails said. “I have a million better things to do than dignify the idea of validating your already swollen ego.”

“Like hang out with your silly stepbrothers?” asked Silver Spoon. “They’re invited too.”

Tails closed his book with an angry expression. “Okay,” he said. “I may be annoyed with my brothers, I may lose my temper when they do stupid things, but, I will NOT tolerate anypony questioning our blood relations! Rest assured, I intend to report this to Miss Cheerilee. She’ll deal with you.” At that, he stormed off, clearly vexed.

“So,” Diamond Tiara said to Twist and Apple Bloom. “I can expect to see you two at my cute-cenera.”

“Is this some kind o’ joke?” Apple Bloom asked.

“My dad told me I could invite anyone,” she answered. “If it was a joke, I wouldn’t want you there at all. But, he told me that all of my classmates are invited.”

“Yer fixin’ ta mock me n’ other students without Cutie Marks that go fer not havin’ a Cutie Mark, ain’t ya?” Apple Bloom asked in a deadpan voice.

“Apple Bloom,” Diamond Tiara said in feigned shock. “This is us you’re talking to.” She then shifted to smugness. “Of course we are.”

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon cackled deviously until Miss Cheerilee approached them. “Diamond Dazzle Tiara and Silver Shine Spoon!” she declared. That shut the two fillies up immediately. They turned to see a stern Miss Cheerilee. “I've warned you before about playing these sorts of pranks on Apple Bloom, but, you seem to refuse to listen. I've given you double-detention for two weeks last time - including two straight Saturday AND Sunday detentions. Looks like I'm going to have to resort to suspension for a month this time. One of these days, you are going to get it through your heads that just because Diamond's mother is the head of the PTA, her father is the richest pony in town, and Silver's parents have high society connections doesn't give you the right to bully these other kids. I don't care if Spoiled DOES try to have me fired - AGAIN. I'll beat it like I did the last three times I stood up to her.”

Diamond Tiara looked with disdain at Tails, who stood his ground. He then turned his attention to Apple Bloom and Twist, who looked amazed with what they witnessed. He gave them a kind smile. “Thank you for telling me, Tails,” Miss Cheerilee said. “Apple Bloom, Twist, are you two okay?”

“Ah am,” Apple Bloom answered.

“Me, too,” Twist answered.

“Just remember,” Miss Cheerilee said. “If you two or another classmate are ever facing trouble from bullies, please tell me or another grown pony you trust.”

“We will,” the two fillies answered.

With that, Miss Cheerilee left. As soon as she was out of earshot, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon went back to teasing.

“So, we’ll see you two this weekend at the party,” Diamond Tiara said. The two giggled before doing their ultimate taunt.

“Blank flanks~!” they said together. Then they walked off laughing to themselves. This left the two fillies looking very sad.

“You know, I think I’ll go after all,” Tails said. “Just to see them crash and burn.”

“Are you sure,” Twist said. “Even though you don’t like them?”

“True,” Tails said. “But, I do like seeing them get their dose of comeuppance.”

“Okay,” Apple Bloom said. “If yer sure ‘bout that.”

Later, at Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack and Caramel were picking apples when Apple Bloom arrived.

“Hi, Apple Bloom,” Applejack smiled before she noticed her little sister’s downhearted expression. “Rough day at school today?”

“Eeyup,” replied the dismal filly.

“Sit down here n’ tell me about it,” Applejack said warmly.

Apple Bloom sat on a haybale. “Diamond Tiara got her Cutie Mark today,” she said. “She’s havin’ her cute-cenera this weekend.”

“Did ya not get an invitation?” Applejack asked.

“No,” Apple Bloom said. “The whole class was invited. That’s the problem.”

“Ah don’t really see why that would be,” Applejack said.

“Ya know how she made fun o’ me just fer livin’ on this here farm?” Apple Bloom asked.

“That still bothers me that she says that,” Applejack said. “‘Specially since her pop is a trusted client.”

“Well, it’s gotten worse now that she has her Cutie Mark,” Apple Bloom explained. “She’s invitin’ me n’ the other students without Cutie Marks just so she can make fun o’ us more.”

“Well,” Applejack said. “If the idea bothers ya that much, ya can choose not ta go.”

“Ah tried that,” Apple Bloom said. “She said that if ah don’t go, ah’ll be a nopony just like mah family o’ inbred hicks.”

Applejack looked clearly angered from the statement. She then took a deep breath and continued to talk to her sister.

“Now,” Applejack said. “Ya shouldn’t listen ta that nonsense. Yer the first member o’ the Apple Family since aunt Citrus ta go ta school full time.”

“It’s true,” Caramel said. “Applejack and I met when we were foals and I didn’t see her go to school much. Instead, she was mostly homeschooled. At least, I think she was.”

“Ah was, Caramel,” Applejack confirmed before turning back to Apple Bloom. “Ah only went ta the schoolhouse once a semester. Mah edumacation don’t really stretch beyond apples.”

“Don’t ya mean education?” Apple Bloom asked.

“See what ah mean?” Applejack said. “Ah don’t got good grammar.”

“That’s noticeable,” Apple Bloom said. “Ah suppose yer ‘bout ta tell me yah were the last in yer class ta get a Cutie Mark?”

“As a matter o’ fact,” Applejack said. “Ah was. Ah knew that ah would work on the apple farm for a long long time n’ these bright shiny apples sealed the deal.”

“That ain’t really helpin’ me feel better,” Apple Bloom said in a deadpan voice.

“Big McIntosh was the last in his class,” Applejack said. “So was Granny Smith.”

“Yer not even tryin’ are ya?” Apple Bloom said. “Ah’ll pro’ly be the last pony in mah class to get my Cutie Mark. This pro’ly runs in the family!” She huffed as she turned around. “See if ah ask ya fer help again after this.”

“Sorry, sugarcube,” Applejack said sadly. “But, y’all will get yer Cutie Mark, don’t ya fret.”

“When you do, it’ll probably follow the family theme of apples,” Caramel said, hoping to be more helpful before accidentally burying himself in apples. “I’m okay.”

Caramel’s statement caused Apple Bloom’s ears to noticeably perk up.

“Wait,” Apple Bloom said, growing more excited. “Apples… that’s it! Applejack’s got apples, Granny Smith’s is an apple pie, n’ Big McIntosh’s is an apple half! Mah Cutie Mark’ll pro’ly be apple-related, too!”

“Maybe you can start by digging me out of these apples?” Caramel suggested.

Apple Bloom chuckled sheepishly and helped to get the apples moved. Applejack helped as well.

The next day, Apple Bloom was with Applejack and Caramel at market after school.

“Get yer Sweet Apple Acres apples here~!” Applejack called. “Juicy, sweet, n’ perfect for any treat~”

Apple Bloom got a little too eager with her sales pitch.

“There are a lot o’ great uses for apples!” She called. “Ya can eat ‘em, play with ‘em, n’ even make fine art with ‘em!”

On that last point, she kicked an apple to a canvas about to be painted by a unicorn stallion with a grayish-purple coat, dark goldenrod and pale yellow mane and tail, green eyes, and a Cutie Mark of a yellow star surrounded by multiple white five-pronged smaller stars.

“Hey!” Exclaimed the stallion.

“Sorry ‘bout that, Ponet,” Applejack said to him. “She’s new ‘n a little too eager ta please.”

“I’ll take my artistic vision elsewhere, plebeian,” Ponet said snootily before levitating his canvas and easel and walking away.

“Apple Bloom,” Applejack said. “Ah appreciate ya wantin’ ta help, but, ya might want ta take it down a notch.”

At that point, Apple Bloom noticed a grayish amber earth pony stallion with light cobalt blue eyes, a dark gamboge mane and tail, and an hourglass Cutie Mark. “Doc Whooves!” the filly cried.

“Yes?” answered the stallion, whose name was Doctor Whooves, though, he also answered to Time Turner.

“Care ta buy some apples?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Oh, no thank you,” he politely responded.

“Why not?” the filly asked.

“I have plenty at home,” he said.

“Are ya sure?” Apple Bloom pressed.

“I-I’m pretty sure,” stammer Doctor Whooves, quickly growing overwhelmed.

But, Apple Bloom continued badgering him. “Yer pretty sure, but, yer not absolutely super-duper completely sure, are ya?”

This girl’s as stubborn as her ancestors, the stallion noted. “Look, I have projects to work on, so, if I buy some apples, can I be on my way?”

Apple Bloom’s stern face turned to one of delight. “Ya got it!”

Doctor Whooves quickly grabbed a few apples. “Will four gold bits be enough?” he asked Applejack.

“Yeah,” she answered. “But, ya might need yer change.”

“Keep it,” the stallion said as he paid the bits and ran off with the apples.

“Whoo-hoo!” Apple Bloom hollered. “Ah made mah first sale! Ah’ll be sure ta get mah Cutie Mark in no time!” She tried looking at her flank. “See anythin’ yet?” Her flank was still bare. “Maybe ah need ta increase mah sales figgers.”

She then noticed Berry Punch looking the available apples in a nearby bucket. “Ya touch it, ya buy it!” Apple Bloom’s outburst frightened Berry Punch.

“Terribly sorry, Berry Punch,” Applejack apologized.

Berry Punch breathed a sigh of relief. “It’s okay. I have an overeager little sister, too. I know how it goes.”

Applejack turned her attention back to Apple Bloom, who at that moment, was pouring apples into Bon-Bon’s bag.

“That’ll be four silver bits,” Apple Bloom said.

Bon-Bon noticed this and looked annoyed. “I didn’t put those in my bag!”

“Likely story,” Apple Bloom retorted. “Four silver bits.”

“Apple Bloom!” Applejack scolded. “That’s no way ta talk ta a customer!” She then spoke kindly to Bon-Bon. “Ah’m so sorry, Bon-Bon. She’s new.”

“You don’t say,” sneered Bon-Bon.

“Here,” offered Applejack. “Accept these, no charge.” She put more apples in Bon-Bon’s other bag.

“Thank you,” Bon-Bon said. “I’m sure Twist and I can work through these.” She trotted off, though, her pace was slower with the unplanned weight of the apples.

“Y’all come back now, ya hear~” Applejack called to Bon-Bon. She then turned her attention to Apple Bloom, clearly not happy with her being too assertive to the customers. “Ya clearly ain’t ready ta sell apples just yet.”

Apple Bloom sadly sighed and gave her apron back to Applejack. “So much fer earnin’ mah Cutie Mark in apple sellin’,” she said.

Caramel stepped up. “It’s okay, Apple Bloom,” he comforted. “You were just a bit too eager is all. Look, a Cutie Mark isn’t something you can rush. I don’t even remember what mine’s supposed to mean. Of course, I can’t remember last week, so, there’s that.”

“Gee, thanks, Caramel.” Apple Bloom said.

“Look, do any other ponies in your class not have Cutie Marks?” Caramel asked.

“Well,” Apple Bloom explained. “There is Twist. There’s also Featherweight n’ two other fillies. Ah don’t know the last three too well.”

“You could go to the cute-cenera with Twist,” Caramel suggested. “That way, you can have fun together on common ground.”

Applejack nodded. “Yeah. N’ the party can also be a chance ta get ta know them other three foals.”

“Now, go along, Apple Bloom,” Caramel said.

“Ya sure ya don’t want me ta stick around ‘til the end o’ market?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Hey!” said an earth pony stallion with a light tan coat, brown mane and tail, dark blue eyes, and a Cutie Mark of a tennis racquet obscured by yellow shorts. “Who’s been using my racquet?”

“Yes, we’re sure,” Caramel said. “We have some explaining to do for Ace Point.”

Apple Bloom nodded and walked over to Bon-Bon’s house.

She soon approached the location and knocked on the barn door. Twist opened the top barn door and saw Apple Bloom.

“Hi, Apple Bloom!” Twist said happily.

“Ah was thinkin’,” Apple Bloom began. Twist politely listened to her friend. “Well, since we both don’t have our Cutie Marks, maybe you n’ ah could go together as friends.”

Twist winced a bit. “Uh, actually…” she began, opening the bottom door. On Twist’s flank were two pink and white candy canes forming the shape of a heart. Apple Bloom gasped in surprise.

“When’d ya get that?!” she asked.

“About half an hour ago, actually,” Twist explained. “I always enjoyed making my own sugary treats, but, it took me until just now to realize it was my super special talent! Kind of sweet, huh?”

Apple Bloom, however, felt discouraged. “Yeah,” she said dismally. Twist immediately took notice of Apple Bloom’s sadness.

“I’m sorry, Apple Bloom.” Twist said comfortingly. “This doesn’t mean you won’t come to the party, does it?”

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were walking by at that moment. “She will if she wants to prove she’s not an inbred hick,” the pink filly said.

“Don’t feel too bad, Apple Bloom,” Silver Spoon said. “I’m sure you’ll have fun with us as we admire Diamond Tiara’s Cutie Mark.”

Puppy Dog Tails was watching the scene and snidely said, “Diamond Tiara always did like others kissing her plot.”

“Ah’ll see ya then,” Apple Bloom sadly sighed. Then she moped away to wallow in self-pity. A dark cloud floated above her. Literally.

“Whoa,” a raspy voice said overhead. “Sorry about the dark cloud, kid.” It was Rainbow Dash. She then tossed the cloud away higher into the sky. “So, what’s eating you?”

Apple Bloom took a deep breath and explained in one breath. “There’s a cute-cenera and everypony in mah class is invited, but, ah really want ta go, n’ ah want ta have mah Cutie Mark ‘cause almost everypony in mah class has them already, n’ Applejack n’ Caramel say I can earn mah Cutie Mark eventually, but, ah don’t want one eventually… Ah want it now!”

Rainbow processed the information. “I see.” Rainbow said. “Well, if you want a Cutie Mark, maybe I can help you.”

“How?” Apple Bloom said. “Applejack said ah have ta wait fer it ta happen.”

“She also said that two plus two equals appleseeds,” Rainbow snarked.

Meanwhile, Applejack and Caramel were packing up shop when Applejack suddenly stopped short. “Ah don’t know why, but, ah suddenly feel like kickin’ Rainbow’s flank tomorrow.”

Back with the sad filly, Apple Bloom was about to comment on that, but, after thinking a bit, she simply said. “Good point. The only math questions she could get right had ta do with apples.”

“Besides,” Rainbow said. “I was first in my class to get a Cutie Mark.”

“Ya were?” Apple Bloom asked, a new sense of hope coming back to her.

“Yep,” Rainbow said. “Ten years ago, actually.”

“Then,” Apple Bloom said. “Maybe ya can help me!”

Later, Apple Bloom was doing push-ups.

“Okay,” Rainbow said, now wearing a gray sweatband on her head. “The quickest way to ensure a Cutie Mark is earned is to try a lot of things quickly. Are you ready?!”

“Ah’m ready!” Apple Bloom said.

“I SAID, ARE YOU READY?!” Rainbow said louder.

“AH’M READY!” Apple Bloom responded.

“Good!” Rainbow explained. She then tossed three bouncy balls over to Apple Bloom. “Juggling! Go!”

Apple Bloom tried juggling the balls with her front hooves. She did okay briefly, but, she eventually started to fumble with them. She ended up falling on her chin as the balls landed on her head.

“Ow,” she simply stated.

“Hang-gliding! Go!”

Apple Bloom started to run with a hang glider. She tried to take off, but, she stumbled and didn't even make it off of the cliff.

“Karate! Go!”

Apple Bloom, in full gi, prepared to kick a training stand, but, it was so heavy that she didn't leave a dent in it.

“Kite-flying! Go!”

Apple Bloom began to run with the kite’s string in her mouth. But, she ended up getting tangled in the string. “How’d this even happen?!” the filly complained.

“Ultra Pony Roller Derby! Go!”

Apple Bloom found herself roller skating with Spike and Ash.

“How did she even talk us into doing this?” Ash asked.

“And why are we proceeding to do this?” Spike asked.

“Whoa~” Apple Bloom hollered as she tripped over her own hooves.

“Look out!” Spike called.

Ash and the opposing three ponies crashed into a dust cloud, which Spike and Apple Bloom emerged from with the former on the latter’s back. “Yer a li’l heavy, Spike,” the filly groaned.

“I’m not used to being carried by a filly, either,” Spike groaned. “Not much to grab onto.”

Apple Bloom sighed.

The next day, Rainbow, Spike, and Apple Bloom were by a tree close by Carousel Boutique. Rainbow was looking for something they hadn’t tried.

“Is getting a Cutie Mark really worth all this?” Spike asked Apple Bloom. “At the rate you’re going, you could get hurt.”

“Ah guess not.” Apple Bloom moaned. “But, there has ta be somethin’ ah can do ta get it.”

“Why do you want to get it so badly, anyway?” Spike asked.

Apple Bloom took another deep breath and explained the situation. “There’s a cute-cenera n’ everypony in mah class is invited, but, ah really want ta go, n’ ah want ta have mah Cutie Mark ‘cause almost everypony in mah class has them already, n’ Applejack n’ Caramel say ah can earn mah Cutie Mark eventually, but, ah don’t want one eventually… Ah want it now!”

Spike processed the information. “Okay,” he said. “That answers one question, but, raises a couple others.”

“Sorry,” Apple Bloom said. “When ah saw that Twist got her Cutie Mark, too, ah got upset.”

“Isn’t Twist that bespectacled filly who speaks with a lisp?” Spike asked.

“Uh-huh.” Apple Bloom nodded. “She got hers yesterday. Now, ah’ll pro’ly be the only one at Diamond Tiara’s cute-cenera without a Cutie Mark.”

“Rarity mentioned Diamond Tiara when me and Twilight first came to Ponyville,” Spike remembered. “Is it true she’s the daughter of the richest stallion in town?”

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “It don’t really explain how ya know about Twist, but, okay.”

“Me and Twilight saw her whenever we went to Bon-Bon’s candy store to get some rock candy,” Spike explained.

“Ah see.” Apple Bloom said. Suddenly, they heard the sound of giggling. Apple Bloom gasped and she hid in a nearby bush.

Spike saw Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon leaving Carousel Boutique with a wrapped box on the former’s back.

“I love your new outfit,” Silver Spoon smiled.

“I know,” Diamond Tiara said smugly. “It totally shows off my Cutie Mark.”

“I love how special you are~” Silver Spoon said.

“Hey!” Spike said. “She’s no more special than anypony else who has a Cutie Mark.”

Apple Bloom peeked to see Spike standing up to Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Both fillies laughed. “That’s rich coming from you, lizard boy,” Diamond Tiara said.

Spike wasn’t the least bit intimidated. “If you’re trying to put me down for being a dragon like those Canterlot snobs,” he said. “You’re going to have to try harder. Heck, you’re going to have to try, period.”

The two fillies scoffed. “You’re lucky that we have other things we need to do,” Silver Spoon said. And they walked off to where they needed to go. When they were out of earshot, Apple Bloom made her way out of the bush.

“Spike,” Apple Bloom said in awe. “That was amazin’!”

“They’re just spineless cowards,” Spike said. “They pick on those lower than them because they think they won’t fight back. I call ponies like them jerkwads.”

“Ah wish ah could stand up ta ‘em like that,” Apple Bloom said. “But, ah still have this problem.” She pointed to her flank.

“You look like you’d be good at eating cupcakes!” chirped a voice from behind Apple Bloom. It was Pinkie Pie, who was out and about.

“Eatin’ cupcakes?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Eating cupcakes~” Pinkie repeated in a singsong-like voice.

“Uh, I’m not sure that qualifies as a talent,” Spike pointed out.

“It might be, Spike,” Apple Bloom said. “Ah never saw somepony with an eatin’ cupcake Cutie Mark before, so, what if ah’m the one ta get it?”

"Then again…" sighed Spike. "Dragons don't get Cutie Marks, so, who am I to judge that?" He followed Pinkie and Apple Bloom to Sugarcube Corner. As soon as they left, Applejack came up and kicked Rainbow in the rear with her back legs.

“That was fer yesterday, Rainbow Dash!” she said.

“What did I do?!” Rainbow asked.

“Ah don’t rightly know,” Applejack said. “But, somethin’ told me ta kick yer flank!”

Inside the bakery, Apple Bloom looked around the kitchen. “Where are those cupcakes? Ah’m ready ta chow down!”

“I don’t have any cupcakes,” Pinkie said.

“Then, why did you invite us here to eat them?” Spike pointed out.

“Because she looked like somepony who would be good at eating cupcakes” Pinkie said. “And, she also looks like the kind of pony who can be good at helping me make some!”

“Okay, making cupcakes sounds more like a legit talent,” Spike said. “I mean, how do you compare who’s better or worse at eating cupcakes?”

“Eating contests,” Pinkie said. “Come on, guys. Let’s get baking!”

Pinkie then happily put chef’s hats on Apple Bloom and Spike.

“Well, ah guess a makin’ cupcakes Cutie Mark would work,” Apple Bloom said. Then, Pinkie started to sing a little song.

“All you have to do is take a cup of flour,
Add it to the mix
Now just take a little something sweet, not sour
A bit of salt, just a pinch!

Baking these treats is such a cinch
Add a teaspoon of vanilla
Add a little more and ya count to four
And you never get your fill-a~
Cupcakes, so sweet and tasty
Cupcakes, don’t be too hasty
Cupcakes,
Cupcakes, cupcakes, cupcakes!”

The next day, Apple Bloom and Spike were back at Sugarcube Corner with baking lessons with Pinkie. Both pulled out batches from the oven. Spike’s batches looked better while Apple Bloom’s looked burnt.

“Ah guess ah’m not cut out fer gettin’ a baking Cutie Mark, neither,” Apple Bloom said sadly. “Why’re yer batches better n’ mine, Spike?”

“I’ve baked with Twilight and her family before,” Spike said. “It just takes practice and watching your bakes.”

“On the plus side,” Pinkie said. “These look better than your last batch.”

“Thanks,” Apple Bloom said. “But, it still don’t help me ‘cause ah’m not goin’ ta get my Cutie Mark fer makin’ burnt cupcakes.”

“Where do you keep the brooms, Pinkie?” Spike asked.

“They should be in the cupboard over there,” Pinkie said.

“Thanks,” Spike said as he opened said cupboard, only to end up buried in brooms.

“Spahke!” Apple Bloom exclaimed as she hastened to help him. “Are ya okay?!”

Spike emerged from the pile of brooms. “This isn’t my first broom-alanche,” he said.

Apple Bloom helped Spike to put the excess brooms away, leaving only the broom he was going to work with. As he began cleaning, Twilight entered.

“Hi, Pinkie,” Twilight said. “Rainbow told me that Spike was here.”

“Right here,” Spike said, sweeping up dried batter. “Before you ask, I decided to clean up on my own.”

“Alright,” Twilight said. “I can see you guys were doing a bit of baking.”

“They were,” Apple Bloom said.

“Apple Bloom did some baking, too,” Pinkie said happily. She then presented one of Apple Bloom’s batches. “Want to try one?”

“It’s okay ta say no, Twi,” Apple Bloom said. “They’re not that good.”

Twilight didn’t like the look of the cupcakes. “I’m good, thanks,” she said.

“Ah don’t blame ya,” Apple Bloom said. “Pinkie offered me ta help n’ Ah took it as a chance ta earn mah Cutie Mark. As ya can see, it didn’t really work out.”

“She’s trying to get her Cutie Mark so Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon won’t mock her during her cute-cenera today,” Spike explained.

It was then Apple Bloom got an idea. “Wait, maybe ya can help me with that, Twi!” Apple Bloom said excitedly. “Y’ALL can give me a Cutie Mark!”

“That’s not how it works,” Twilight said.

“Ah know,” Apple Bloom said. “But, there has ta be somethin’ ya can do! Oh, please, please, please, please, PLEASE~!”

“You may as well try it, Twilight,” Spike said. “She’ll just keep asking if you don’t.”

“Alright,” Twilight said, finally conceding. “Hold still please, Apple Bloom.”

Apple Bloom did as she was told, but, she was still visibly excited at the idea. In a flash of magic, a Cutie Mark depicting a cart full of apples appeared on the filly’s flank.

“Thanks, Twi!” Apple Bloom said happily. “Ah knew ya could-” But before Apple Bloom could finish her sentence, the fake Cutie Mark faded away.

“I’m sorry,” Twilight said, “But, I told you it wouldn’t—”

“Try again!” Apple Bloom said eagerly. Twilight sighed and tried again several times. After each attempt, the results were still the same. This disheartened Apple Bloom even more.

“I told you,” Twilight said. “Not even magic can make a Cutie Mark appear before its time.”

“Maybe ah better just not go,” Apple Bloom said sadly. “Ah don’t care if Diamond Tiara says that mah family is full o’ inbred hicks. Ah can’t go ta that party n’ face bein’ mocked.”

“I’m sure Diamond Tiara wouldn’t say that,” Twilight said.

“I wouldn’t be surprised,” Spike said. “She says that those without Cutie Marks aren’t special.”

“Oh, Spike,” Twilight said. “It is important for a pony to get their Cutie Mark, but, she probably doesn’t know the amazement of trying new things.”

“For her, trying would be a start,” Spike said.

“Ferget it,” Apple Bloom said as she made her way out of the kitchen towards the Sugarcube Corner entrance/exit. “There is no way ah’m goin’ ta that-” She stopped short as she saw that she walked right into the party. She nervously gulped. “How could ah have forgotten about the time? How could ah have forgotten that Pinkie was hostin’ the party at Sugarcube Corner?!”

Pinkie put a party hat on her head. “Don’t forget your party hat,” Pinkie giggled. “As long as you’re here, you can try to have fun!” She skipped off as Spike approached the filly.

“You okay?” Spike asked.

“No,” Apple Bloom said. “Ah need ta get out o’ here.”

“If you need me to create some sort of distraction,” Spike said. “I can do that.”

Apple Bloom gratefully hugged Spike. “Ah don’t know how ta thank ya, Spike!”

“You don’t have to,” Spike said. He then saw a trumpet on display. “You may want to cover your ears.”

Apple Bloom obliged and did so. Spike went to the trumpet and began playing it with impressive skill despite frequent sour notes. Various foals crowded around Spike and were amazed with what they heard. This gave Apple Bloom a chance to sneak towards the front door of Sugarcube Corner while the others were distracted.

However, Applejack and Caramel entered before she could get out the door. “Apple Bloom!” exclaimed Caramel happily. “You made it!”

“After Caramel n’ ah heard o’ Twist,” Applejack explained. “We were afraid ya weren’t goin’ ta show up. But, we’re glad ya came ta yer senses about this Cutie Mark thing. These things happen when they’re s’pposed ta happen.”

“Ah need ta get out o’ here before Diamond Tiara makes fun o’ me,” Apple Bloom whispered frantically.

“What’s that?” Caramel asked.

“Get out o’ mah way!” Apple Bloom said slightly louder. And she hastened Applejack and Caramel away from the front entrance. She was just about to part when Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon’s voices caught her attention.

“Looks like blank flank Apple Bloom made it with her hick sister,” Diamond Tiara said.

“Why don’t we go say hi?” Silver Spoon said.

Thinking quickly, Apple Bloom grabbed a pink tablecloth from a small table and adorned it into a makeshift skirt.

“Looks like you’re becoming something more than an inbred hick,” Diamond Tiara said, either not knowing or not caring that Applejack was in earshot. “So glad you could make it.”

“Nice dress,” Silver Spoon commented.

Apple Bloom grew nervous. “Oh, uh, thanks,” she responded. “It’s somethin’ ah, uh, threw together last minute.”

“It totally shows off your Cutie Mark,” Diamond Tiara mocked. “Oh, wait, you don’t have one.”

“Oh, yeah,” Apple Bloom said, clearly making something up on the fly. “That’s done on purpose. Ya see, ah got my Cutie Mark earlier, n’ it’s so amazin’, ah didn’t want it riskin’ ya not gettin’ attention fer yer Cutie Mark.”

Secretly, Apple Bloom hoped her bluff would work on the egotistical filly. Sure enough, Diamond Tiara grew nervous about the idea of being shown up at her own party.

“Yeah, that’s fine,” Diamond Tiara said, rolling her eyes. “It’s probably stupid like you anyway.”

“Well, ah’ma go mingle,” Apple Bloom said. “Catch ya later, DT, n’ enjoy yer party.” She walked off, silently congratulating herself on a successful bluff. Unfortunately, she tripped over the bottom hem of the tablecloth skirt and she fumbled onto the ground, knocking over the phonogram and stopping the music. All could see that she had no Cutie Mark. “Oh, no…” Apple Bloom could only say to herself.

The two bullies seized the opportunity to belittle Apple Bloom further.

“Wow~” Silver Spoon said in a condescending manner. “That is an impressive Cutie Mark~”

“Nice try,” Diamond Tiara said.

“Blank Flank!” they taunted together before cackling.

What no one seemed to notice was Puppy Dog Tails standing by a table holding a punch bowl. He directed his attention to two fillies underneath it. “Are you going to let them get away with this,” he asked. “Or are you going to tell them off?”

“We’re going to tell them off,” said one of the two fillies underneath the punch bowl. Then louder, she said. “You got a problem with blank flanks?!”

At this, the bullies stopped cackling.

“What?!” said Diamond Tiara.

"I said, ‘you got a problem with blank flanks?’"

There were the white unicorn filly with purple and pink mane and tail and the orange pegasus filly with a dark pink mane and tail. Apple Bloom glanced over at the duo, a vague familiarity about them present in her mind. Why do they look so familiar, she asked herself.

“The problem is,” Silver Spoon scoffed. “They’re, like, totally not special!”

Tails laughed in a deliberately condescending manner. “There’s the pot calling the kettle black,” he said. “You’re no more special than they are!”

“Besides,” said the unicorn filly. “Her not having a Cutie Mark means that she’s full of potential!”

“She’d be great at anything,” retorted the pegasus filly before saying in a way that mocks the two uppity fillies. “The possibilities are, like, endless~”

“Yeah,” Tails said. “She might end up being your boss someday because the way you’re carrying on now, you’ll be lucky to get a job flipping hayburgers.”

"Or," said the white filly. "She could be a great scientist, an amazing artist, or a famous writer. She could even be mayor of Ponyville someday."

"Well, Mayor Mare did preside over mah parents weddin'," said Apple Bloom.

“And unlike you two,” the pegasus said. “She doesn’t need to coast on her family’s wealth and cheat at life.”

"Why are you two on her side?" scoffed Diamond.

The two fillies turned their sides toward the crowd, showing…

"Yer blank flanks, too?" Apple Bloom gasped. "Ah thought ah was the only one!"

"We thought we were the only two!" the orange filly chuckled.

“What am I?” asked a disgruntled, scrawny pegasus colt with a cream coat, brown eyes, and a brown mane and short tail. “Chopped liver?”

"Oh!" Apple Bloom and the other two looked over at the colt. “Sorry, Featherweight.”

"You three are very lucky, darlings," said a voice.

"Rarity!" the white filly rushed toward the white mare, hugging her.

“Seriously?” said Featherweight, clearly annoyed at being ignored again.

“Lucky?” Diamond Tiara gasped. “How could they be lucky?!”

"These little ones have the chance to really discover who they are," said another voice.

"Aunt Holiday!" grinned the orange filly. "Auntie Lofty!"

"You can be anything you strive to be, slugger," Lofty grinned, ruffling the orange filly's mane.

“And they have all the time in the world to figure it out,” Caramel said.

“Not just an afternoon,” Applejack added with a wink.

Before long, other fillies and colts were admiring the ponies without their Cutie Marks.

"Do you think you'll be mayor someday, Apple Bloom?" asked one.

"I would love to be a scientist," added a gray pegasus filly with a tornado Cutie Mark.

"Maybe I got my mark too soon," a third remarked.

Diamond Tiara wasn’t pleased with the turn of events. Tails, however, had a satisfied grin. “Revenge is underrated,” he said. “I feel great!”

“This is supposed to be my party!” Diamond Tiara exclaimed with a huff. “Everypony is supposed to be paying attention to me~”

“Oh, please,” Tails said. “You have ponies kissing your plot all day. You can survive a few minutes without it.”

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon scoffed and walked away. By that point, Spike stopped playing the trumpet, winded from doing so. “Whew~” he panted. “I sure know how to play a distraction.” He noticed Apple Bloom was still there and thought all the fillies around her were ganging up on her. “Leave her alone, you cowardly little parasites!”

“No, no, Spike!” Apple Bloom exclaimed. “It’s okay! They ain’t bullyin’ us!”

“Oh,” Spike said in embarrassment. “In that case I–” He suddenly fully registered Apple Bloom’s statement. “Wait, ‘us?’”

The two fillies waved at Spike and properly introduced themselves. “Name’s Scootaloo,” the pegasus filly said.

“I’m Sweetie Belle,” said the unicorn filly.

“Ah’m Apple Bloom!” She said happily. “Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, this is mah friend Spike.”

"Oh!" Smiled Sweetie Belle. "So, you were the dragon that Rarity was telling me about."

"R-rarity spoke of me to you?" Spike blushed. He cleared his throat. "That's nice of her. Well, now, you finally met the clumsy dragon.”

“I never said anything about that,” Rarity said. “I only told my sister the good things about you.”

“Yeah,” Sweetie Belle said. “You really are as kind and loyal as she said you are. I especially like the story about how you talked sense into my sister and her friends about Zecora.”

Spike modestly blushed. Rarity also blushed, but, from embarrassment. Suddenly, Spike noticed something. “Wait,” he said. “I think I’ve seen the three of you together before.”

“You have?” Scootaloo asked.

Spike carefully looked them over and snapped his claws. “Now, I remember!” he said. “You three clung to each other in fear when Nightmare Moon showed up!”

“Oh, yeah!” Apple Bloom exclaimed. “Ah wondered why y’all two looked familiar ta me!”

“Hey,” Scootaloo said. “I remember that, too!”

“And me, three!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed happily. “Now, it looks like we’re finally getting to know each other.”

“Hey, don’t you three go to school together?” Spike asked.

“Yeah,” Sweetie Belle said. “But, we’re in different classes.”

“But, doesn’t the Ponyville Schoolhouse only have one classroom?” a confused Spike asked.

"No," said Scootaloo. "There's so many fillies and colts in this town, do you think we could all fit into one classroom?"

Spike thought about this. “Well, no,” he admitted. “Truthfully, I’ve never actually been inside the place.”

“But, in pony years,” Sweetie Belle said. “You’re ten years old. Shouldn’t you be going to school?”

“That school’s for ponies,” Spike said. “Not dragons. Besides, with the education Twilight’s been giving me in Canterlot, I’d be a graduate by Ponyville’s academic standards, so, it’s kind of a moot point anyway.”

“Fair enough,” Sweetie Belle admitted.

Later, the three new friends were sharing some of Spike's cupcakes at a table.

"So, now that we're friends," said Apple Bloom, "Uh… we are friends, right?"

"Of course!" grinned Sweetie Belle.

"Totally," agreed Scootaloo. "Think about it, girls. We don't have our cutie marks…"

"And Diamond and Silver drive us crazy!" added Sweetie Belle. The three giggled. "We could form a club!"

“Just what ah was thinkin’!” Apple Bloom said. “We can form a group n’ together, we’ll find out who we’re meant ta be! Now, what do we call ourselves?”

"The Cutie Mark Three?" Scootaloo suggested.

"The Cutastically Fantastics?" Sweetie Belle put forward.

"How about… the Cutie Mark Crusaders?" Apple Bloom asked.

"I vote Apple Bloom's!" Scootaloo grinned.

"I like hers, too," added Sweetie Belle.

"Cutie Mark Crusaders, it is!" Apple Bloom high-hoofed her new friends.

Twist stepped up. “Hey, girls,” she said. “Want some peppermint sticks?”

"Yes, please," Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo eagerly agreed as they began to take a bite.

“Sorry about leaving you, Apple Bloom,” Twist said. “I felt awful for doing it.”

“That’s okay,” Apple Bloom said. “Ya were just excited ‘bout gettin’ yer Cutie Mark. Hey, we'll have ta have a cute-cenera fer y’all!”

"Oh yes!" Sweetie Belle smiled. "We can't let that slide."

"We can help Pinkie organize it!" smiled Scootaloo. "Maybe we can get a party-planning Cutie Mark."

"Another cute-cencra?!" Cried Pinkie. "I can whip it up! Just tell me the day and time, Twist. This will be super fun!"

Twilight and Spike watched over the fillies. “Ready to write a friendship report, Spike?” Twilight asked.

"Ready." Spike got out his quill. Twilight cleared her throat.

“Dearest Princess Celestia,
I am pleased to say that one of your youngest subjects has learned a valuable lesson about friendship. Sometimes, the thing that you think will cause you to lose friends can actually be the thing that helps you form your closest friendships and realize how special you are.
Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle”

The sun princess read the letter to her sister and Canis. “That was beautiful, Aunt Celestia,” the plush said.

“Indeed it was a brilliant lesson to learn,” Princess Luna said. “Yon Twilight doth learn much.”

“You’re right on that, sister,” Princess Celestia smiled.

The two sisters looked nostalgically at the tapestries depicting their Cutie Marks.

End of chapter.

Chapter 13: Winter Wrap Up (S1:E11)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 13: Winter Wrap Up

It had been months since Twilight and Spike had moved to Ponyville. In that time, Twilight had her 17th birthday and learned how Ponyville handled the four seasons. On this particular day, Twilight woke up before the sun. She seemed excited about something. Though, she tried to contain herself and gently wake the baby dragon in her embrace.

“Spike, wake up,” she excitedly whispered. “It’s Winter Wrap-Up Day.”

Spike stirred a bit. “Mommy?” he said, half-asleep.

“Not exactly~” Twilight said, still in a whisper. “Winter Wrap-Up.”

“You’re not mommy,” Spike grumbled. “Do you even know what time it is?”

“I know,” Twilight said as she got out of bed. “It’s early, but, today is an important day. Tomorrow is the vernal equinox!”

“You know, you can just say the first day of spring,” Spike said. “Now, can we go back to sleep?”

“No, Spike,” Twilight said as she turned on the lights. “We need to get ready to clean up winter.”

The little dragon was not pleased to be flooded with light when he'd been trying to go back to sleep. And perhaps because of that he grumpily replied. "No. I want to sleep," Then, he snorted. "Who in their right mind just cleans up winter? Why don't they just use magic to change the seasons? You know, like they always did in Canterlot. No mess, no wait, no fuss."

“That’s now how it works in Ponyville,” Twilight explained. “It was founded by earth ponies. So, ever since then, ponies have had to use their hooves to clean up winter. Over time, they allowed pegasi to help clear away the clouds and bring in birds and they also allow some unicorn magic when it comes to building nests and other tasks that can’t be accomplished without levitation spells. But, when it comes to clearing the snow, melting the ice, and waking the animals, it’s done the earth pony way.”

“I don’t see why I have to be involved,” Spike complained. “I’m not any kind of pony. Besides, I can breathe fire to melt some of the snow in the morning.”

“The last time you tried that,” Twilight said. “You accidentally set fire to a park bench.”

“Oh, yeah,” Spike said, his cheeks red with an embarrassed blush. “Still, I’d like to get back to sleep. You know that when I don’t get enough sleep, I get cranky.”

“Oh, alright,” Twilight said. “We’ll make sure to go a little later, okay? I don’t want to leave you here by yourself since the others will be busy cleaning up.”

Spike sluggishly looked at Twilight’s alarm clock. “Twilight, have you even checked your clock?” he asked.

Twilight looks and she had a look of surprise. “Four o’ clock?!” she said. “We overslept?!”

“No,” said the grumpy dragon. “It’s four in the MORNING! The sun’s not up yet.”

Twilight looked out the window to see that the sun indeed was not up yet. “Oh…” Twilight said sheepishly. “I guess I must have been too eager to start work.”

“Now, can we go back to sleep?” Spike asked. “I’m starting to get cold.”

“Yes, Spike,” Twilight said, going back into bed and cuddling up to Spike. “We’ll wake up again in three hours.”

She nuzzled the little dragon before falling asleep herself and waiting for the alarm clock.

Hours later, the alarm clock rang. Twilight woke easily, though, Spike was still drowsy from being woken up early and the cold weather. Twilight prepped some things to help him warm up. She even gave him a warm breakfast for good measure. Spike smelled the good food and he started to be a bit more awake. He saw hashbrowns, pancakes, toast, biscuits, and oatmeal.

“Thanks, Twilight!” Spike said excitedly.

“No problem, Spike,” Twilight said. “For a little extra insurance, I’ll let you ride on my back with a blanket wrapped around you.”

“That I can do,” Spike smiled. He then sat down and started eating.

As Spike ate breakfast, Twilight was getting ready. She then looked at her checklist on the wall.

“Okay, let’s see,” Twilight said, looking over her list. “Boots, check. Scarf, check. Saddle, check.” She then looked back to see Spike getting on his own red galoshes, fleece jacket, and the scarf Rarity gave him along with a new knit cap the fashionista made for him after his old one was burnt by Razer. “Spike prepping in winter clothes, check.”

“Hot chocolate with extra marshmallows,” Spike said, filling a thermos. “Check.”

Twilight smiled sweetly. “Looks like we’re all set, Spike,” she said before kneeling down so Spike could climb on. Spike did so and the two set off for Town Hall at once.

On the way there, they saw ponies wearing vests in three different colors: icy blue, forest green, and light brown. Each vest had a different symbol on it: the blue ones had a cloud, the green ones had a plant, and the browns had a bunny. “What’s with all the different vests?” Spike wondered.

“They’re the team vests that Rarity designed for Winter Wrap-Up.” Twilight explained. “Blue is for the weather team, green is for the plant team, and tan is for the animal team.”

Spike looked a bit confused after looking at the blue team. “Why does the blue team have so many earth ponies?” he asked. “How can they help with the weather? They can’t fly.”

“There are tasks for them on the ground.” Twilight said. “They help to shovel away snow or melt the ice on lakes and puddles.”

“Okay,” Spike said. “The shoveling, I get, but, how can they help with melting the ice? They can’t breathe fire or use magic. And I’m pretty sure the unicorns on the weather team aren’t even allowed to use magic.”

“I think I heard Pinkie mention something about ice skaters with sharper blades on their skates,” Twilight said. “Though, admittedly, I kind of tuned some of it out by thinking about which team I’d be assigned to.”

"You haven't figured that out yet?" Spike asked.

"You can't just pick which team you want to be on, Spike,” she explained. “This isn't a volunteer sort of thing. It's mandatory. Everypony in Ponyville has to help out. You get placed on a team based on what you're good at," Then, she glumly admitted, "I didn't get a whole lot of time to research what each team is supposed to do. I have only a few vague ideas."

“Don’t worry, Twi,” Spike said. “I’m sure you’ll be able to figure it out. You can look for some tasks around here and try each one out.”

The unicorn brought up a hoof to shush the baby dragon on her back. "Mayor Mare is speaking," she whispered.

"Thank you, everypony, for being here bright and early. We need every single pony's help to wrap up winter and bring in spring," Mayor Mare paused as the crowd cheered, waiting for the applause to die down. "Now, all of you have your vests and have been assigned to your appropriate teams. So, let's do even better than last year and have the quickest Winter Wrap Up ever!"

Twilight saw how enthusiastic everypony seemed to be and could hardly believe her eyes. “This is so exciting! I can’t wait to take part!”

“But, we barely know what everypony does,” Spike pointed out.

“Oh, right,” Twilight said. “Sorry.” She set off. "Oh gosh, where should I go?" Then, she pondered as she brought a hoof to her chin. "What does everypony do?"

As if on cue, some of the ponies began to sing. “Huh?” Spike said in confusion. “Where’s that music coming from?”

“Three months of winter coolness and awesome holidays,” sang Rainbow before Pinkie joined in.

“We kept our hoofsies warm at home, time off from work to play~” the party mare sang before Applejack took her turn.

“But, the food we stored is runnin’ out, n’ we can’t grow in this cold~” she sang before Rarity chimed in.

“And, even though I love my boots, this fashion’s getting old~”

After that, Twilight began singing herself, much to Spike’s further confusion. “The time has come to welcome spring and all things warm and green
But, it’s also time to say goodbye; it’s winter we must clean
How can I help, I’m new you see. What does everypony do?
How do I fit in with my talent?
I haven’t got a clue~”

Fluttershy and Rarity then sang alongside Doctor Whooves.

“Winter Wrap Up, Winter Wrap Up
Let’s finish our holiday cheer~”

Miss Cheerilee then joined in with two more earth ponies, one stallion and one mare.

“Winter Wrap Up, Winter Wrap Up”

Applejack continued singing while trotting.

“‘Cause tomorrow, spring is here-”

Rainbow rather unceremoniously swooped by and interrupted.

“‘Cause tomorrow, spring is here!
Bringing home the southern birds, a pegasus’ job begins
And clearing all the gloomy skies to let the sunshine in
We move the clouds and we melt the white snow
When the sun comes up, its warmth and beauty will glow~”

Rarity, carrying a basket in her mouth, led a group of singing ponies to Carousel Boutique while they pulled carts of hay, ribbons, sticks, and anything else birds would use to make a nest.

“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”

Other ponies ring bells near holes in the ground. Rarity and Fluttershy took turns singing the next part.

“Little critters hibernate beneath the snow and ice
We wake up all their sleepy heads so quietly and nice
We help them gather up their food, fix their homes below
We welcome back the southern birds
So their families can grow~”

More ponies sing while carrying animals on their backs.

Applejack continued while overseeing the plant team.

“No easy task ta clear the ground, plant our tiny seeds
With proper care n’ sunshine, everyone it feeds
Apples, carrots, celery stalks, colorful flowers, too
We must work so very hard, it’s just so much ta do~”

Two unicorn fillies sang while hopping with rabbits.

“Winter Wrap Up, Winter Wrap Up~”

More ponies sang while shoveling snow off the roofs.

“Let’s finish our holiday cheer
Winter Wrap Up, Winter Wrap Up
‘Cause tomorrow spring is here~
Winter Wrap Up, Winter Wrap Up”

Pinkie sang another verse while skating.

“‘Cause tomorrow spring is here~
‘Cause tomorrow spring is here!”

Twilight began singing while going over what she learned.

“Now that I know what they all do, I have to find my place
And help with all of my heart, tough task ahead I face
How will I do with little magic, help in my special way
I want to belong so I must do my best today~
Do my best today~”

With that, the whole town joined in one last time.

“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 sang one last verse.

“‘Cause tomorrow spring is here
‘Cause tomorrow spring is here
‘Cause tomorrow spring is here~”

After the song, Spike was even more confused. “Was there a town-wide rehearsal that I’m unaware of?” he asked.

“I did notice flyers advertising something like that,” Twilight said. “But, I wasn’t able to go to them because it would have meant leaving you home alone.”

“I know you couldn’t have been part of it,” Spike said. “If that were the case, you’d know what the teams do in advance.”

“Right.” Twilight said. “Well, I better figure out where I belong.”

At that moment, Rainbow flew past.

“Okay, teams!” Rainbow called. “We’ve got clouds to clear and move before we can head south to retrieve the southern birds. I don’t want somepony going the wrong direction for the third year in a row. Move out and be safe!”

“Ma’am, yes, ma’am!” Various pegasi replied. They set off to clear the clouds.

“Rainbow,” Twilight called.

Rainbow looked down to see Twilight and Spike.

“Hey, guys,” Rainbow said.

“What’s going on?” Spike asked.

“I was just sending some pegasi teams to clear the clouds,” Rainbow said. “After that, we need to head south to get the birds that flew south for the winter.”

“You mentioned somepony going the wrong direction for the third year in a row,” Twilight said.

“Yeah,” Rainbow said. “Derpy Hooves. Last year, she went west to get the southern birds. The year before, she went east.”

“This is a suggestion,” Twilight said. “But, perhaps she can follow behind a team who is heading south. This would give her an idea of where to go.”

“Don’t you think we already tried that?” Rainbow said snidely.

“Have you tried a pegasus pushing her from behind?” Twilight asked.

“We even tried putting her on a leash,” Rainbow said. “Somehow, she still went the wrong way.”

“Hmm, I see,” Twilight said. “Hopefully, you’ll figure something out.”

“Same,” Rainbow said. “I’d ask for help from you two, but…” She gestured to her wings.

“Right,” Twilight said. “Spike and I don't have wings.”

“You could help Rarity,” Rainbow suggested. “She’s making bird nests.”

“We can try anyway,” Twilight said optimistically. “Thanks, Rainbow, and good luck with your weather teams.”

Twilight trotted off and she and Spike saw Rarity making nests alone.

“Hi, Rarity,” Twilight said.

“Ah, hello, Twilight.” Rarity said. “Hello, Spike. Are the scarf and hat I gave you keeping you nice and warm?”

“They sure are,” Spike said. “But, where’s everypony else?”

“I offered to do this myself,” Rarity said. “I may not be a bird myself, but, I can do as good a job at making nests as they can.”

“That doesn’t explain why you’re doing this alone,” Spike said. “I saw plenty of unicorns on the animal team that could help.”

“Maybe I can give you a helping hoof, Rarity,” Twilight said. “I haven’t figured out which team I’d be on exactly, but, maybe doing something like this can help me figure it out.”

Rarity nodded. “That would be appreciated,” she said. “Perhaps you can help, too, Spike. Your claws have more dexterity than hooves.”

“Sure, Rarity,” Spike smiled.

“I know how creative you are when you fashioned that sword out of Stephan’s scale,” Rarity said. “I might have an emerald in it for you if you do a good job.”

“You didn’t have to motivate me with an emerald,” Spike said. “But, I’d be lying if I said it didn’t help. Just give us instructions on what to do.”

“First,” Rarity said as she gathered the supplies together. “Take some of that straw and hay over there and a little bit of branch.” Twilight and Spike followed Rarity’s instructions. “Now, weave them through there.”

Spike did as he was told and somehow managed to make a pyramid. “Huh?” he said.

“How’d you do that?” Twilight asked in surprise and bewildered amazement.

“I don’t know,” Spike answered, equally surprised. “Maybe if I—“ He began disassembling his attempt and reworking it, only to end up with a cube. “What?!”

“Whoa!” Twilight said in further bewilderment.

Spike disassembled his second attempt and tried again, only to end up with a double helix. “This one doesn’t even make sense!” he said.

“Not to worry,” Rarity said encouragingly. “This is your first time trying this and mistakes are meant to be made. If you don’t make mistakes, you can’t learn from them.” She then gave him some more supplies. “Try going slower this time, darling.”

With Rarity’s instructions, Twilight and Spike worked hard on making their own bird's nests. Twilight managed to make a passable resemblance to the one Rarity made, but, Spike’s wasn’t nearly as good. “This nest should be condemned,” Spike said.

“Oh, Spike,” Rarity said comfortingly. “It isn’t so bad. This attempt looks more like a nest than the last few attempts. Perhaps the birds can use this.”

“As what?” Spike asked grumpily. “An outhouse?”

“Spike,” Rarity said. “I assure you, it’s just fine. It’s just a little rough around the edges and you did well for your fourth try. Let me see if I can fix it up.”

“Rarity,” Twilight said. “I don’t know if you should do that.”

“Oh, it’s no trouble,” Rarity insisted as she started getting into the zone.

“I think we lost her,” Spike said sulkingly. “Let’s go try to help somepony else.”

“Right, Spike,” Twilight said. “I wonder what Pinkie’s doing. We should check one of the lakes she mentioned before.”

They headed off and found Pinkie skating on a frozen lake. “Wheeeee~!” Exclaimed the pink pony with glee. “Hi, Twilight~ Hi, Spike~!”

“Nice skating, Pinkie,” Twilight said.

“Thanks, Twilight,” Pinkie smiled. “I’ve been doing this since I was an itty-bitty little-wittle Twinkie-Pinkie!”

“And how exactly does this help?” Spike asked.

“I’m an ice scorer,” Pinkie explained. “I cut lines in the ice with my skates so when the pegasi team clear the clouds and bring the sunshine, it should make melting the ice easier.”

Spike was genuinely surprised by how clever this was. “I think I must be going crazy,” he said. “Pinkie’s actually making sense.”

“You’ve got your work cut out for you, Pinkie,” Twilight said. “There are quite a few lakes and ponds in Ponyville.”

“Tell me about it,” Pinkie said. “It doesn’t help that not many other ponies know how to ice skate. That’s why the weather team has less earth ponies than the other teams.”

“I see,” Twilight said. “I haven’t tried ice skating before, but, maybe I could try if it means I can help you. Maybe Spike can help, too.”

“Say what?” Spike asked. “Twilight, are you sure about this?”

“I want to help my friends,” Twilight insisted.

“Well, alright.” Spike said. “Just be careful, okay?”

“Same to you,” Twilight said.

So, the two each put on skates. Spike wore a pair of black skates while Twilight wore a white ice skate on all four of her hooves. Both struggled to stand upright.

“Uh, on second thought…” Twilight said, feeling uneasy.

“We can’t really back out now,” Spike said before slipping and landing on his scaly backside, shivering intensely from the contact with the cold ice. Twilight struggled to help Spike onto his feet, using her muzzle and neck in place of actual magic.

However, Twilight started slipping herself. “Whoa~!” She exclaimed. She and Spike ended up crashing into Pinkie.

“Oof!” Pinkie exclaimed. The trio wound up inside three balls of snow stacked on top of each other. They managed to shake the snow off of each other. Twilight took off her ice skates and held Spike in a warm embrace. The little dragon’s scales had turned blue and he could barely move. Pinkie was concerned. “Is little Spikey okay?” she asked.

“He needs to be warmed up,” Twilight said. “I have a thermos of hot cocoa for him in my saddlebag. Will you get it please?”

“You got it, Twilight,” Pinkie saluted before removing one of her skates and pulling out the thermos. She then positioned Spike in a way that allowed her to pour the liquid into his mouth, which she proceeded to do. The dragon’s scales returned to their normal colors and he could finally move again.

“Thank you, Pinkie,” Twilight said.

“Yeah, thanks, Pinkie,” Spike said gratefully. “I needed that.”

“Here’s a little extra warmth for you, Spike,” Pinkie said before nuzzling the left side of Spike’s face. She then pulled a fresh, warm cinnamon bun seemingly out of nowhere. “And for extra EXTRA warmth.”

“Uh, where do you keep that thing?” Spike asked.

“I’ll never tell,” Pinkie said before feeding Spike the treat.

“So, it doesn't look like we’re adept at ice skating,” Twilight said. “Sorry about that.”

“It’s okay,” Pinkie said. “Maybe you can go help Fluttershy wake the hibernating critters instead.”

“I suppose that couldn’t hurt,” Twilight said. “I guess I did get a bit of a head start with helping another creature wake up.”

“At like four in the morning,” Spike grumbled. Twilight blushed sheepishly at the remark.

“We’ll give it a go,” Twilight said. “Where’s Fluttershy?”

“That-away, bucko,” Pinkie said, pointing a hoof in one direction.

“Thank you,” Twilight said.

And Twilight walked off with Spike cuddled up onto her back. “I think the cold’s getting to me a bit,” the dragon said. “I’m starting to feel a bit drowsy.”

“If you need me to take you home, I can,” Twilight said. “And I can stay home and look after you.”

“No, I can stay up a little longer,” Spike said. “Just wrap me up like you did when we were traveling to face Razer.” Twilight took a moment and did so.

“Better?” the unicorn asked.

“Much better,” Spike smiled. “Thanks.”

The duo soon reached their yellow pegasus friend. “Wake up, my little friends,” she said gently. “I hope you had some wonderful dreams during your restful hibernation. But, it’s time to wake up, because spring is coming.” From a little hovel emerged a pair of hedgehogs.

“Aww,” Twilight cooed. “That is so adorable~!”

“Aren’t they?” Fluttershy asked before noticing the bundled dragon. “Spike! Are you okay, sweetie?”

“I’ve been better,” Spike said. “Even if it’s the last day of winter, I still get cold. We tried helping Pinkie, but, I nearly got turned into a drake-sicle.”

“I’m sorry to hear that,” Fluttershy said. “If you need to cuddle up to me, you can.” She nuzzled the little dragon’s head. “I can still look after you while I help wake the animals from their hibernation. This is my favorite job of the whole season.”

“Because it has to do with animals?” Spike asked.

“Mm-hmm,” Fluttershy said, nodding her head. “Although, there are so many warrens and dens. Because I need to wake animals slowly, I’m worried I won’t be able to finish before the sun sets.”

“This is just a suggestion, but, why don’t you just have a bunch of ponies waking up the critters at once?” Spike asked.

“I’m the only Critter Whisperer in town,” Fluttershy said. “Dr. Fauna’s good at caring for animals, but, she can’t understand their languages.”

“I may not be a Critter Whisperer myself,” Twilight admitted. “But, maybe I can try helping you wake up your animal friends.”

“That would be very helpful, Twilight,” Fluttershy agreed. “While you’re doing that, I can help Spike warm up.”

“Thank you, Fluttershy.” Twilight said as she levitated the dragon into Fluttershy’s embrace. She then grabbed a silver bell and walked over to a nearby den. She rang the bell. “Hello~ wake up, little friends. Spring is coming~” And she rings the bell once more. “I wonder which cute little critter I’ve awoken.”

Unfortunately for Twilight, the creatures she roused were snakes. “AH!” Twilight gasped. She was one to admit that she was afraid of snakes, venomous or otherwise. “Snakes! Snakes~!”

“Is she okay?” Fluttershy asked.

“She’s afraid of snakes,” Spike said. “She conjured one in school that bit her on the–” He was interrupted by Twilight screaming after accidentally waking bats in their cave. She ran away fast trying to get away, but, she ended up slapping into the trunk of a tree.

Said tree had a beehive that ended up falling on Twilight’s head. Twilight exclaimed with fright and ran blindly into another burrow. From the burrow emerged a family of skunks. They used their defensive spray on Twilight and they waddled out of their burrow.

“Good morning, friends,” Fluttershy said. She was tolerant of the smell of skunk, although, she wouldn’t wear it as a perfume herself. “I think you should take Twilight to get a bath in tomato juice.”

“Sure,” Spike said, holding onto his nose. “I think I have a spare clothes peg that I can wear on my nose while I help her.”

Later at the library, Spike gave Twilight a tomato juice bath.

“All of this Winter Wrap Up stuff is harder than it looks,” Twilight said exasperated.

“Face it, Twilight,” Spike said. “Doing it the traditional way isn’t working for you.”

“Maybe I just haven’t found the right job yet,” Twilight said.

“Twilight, you tried three jobs the traditional way and look what it got you,” Spike said. “Frostbite, stings, and stink. Just use your magic and be done with this.”

“No, Spike!” Twilight said. “I’m going to find some other way to help if it kills me!”

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” Spike said sadly.

Twilight took a deep breath. “Spike,” Twilight said. “I’m sorry that I snapped and I know you’re looking out for me, but, I want to be able to help and I really want to feel like I’m a citizen of Ponyville. I want to do it the way they do it and not like a citizen of Canterlot. You know I don’t like showing off my talents for bragging rights.”

“The sad part is that I can’t argue with that,” Spike said.

“So, after I’m finished with my bath,” Twilight said. “And after you warm up a bit more, we’ll see what Applejack’s doing. She might have something for me.”

“Okay,” Spike agreed. “Who knows? Maybe the fourth time’s the charm.”

Later that day, Spike and a slightly pink-stained Twilight arrived at Sweet Apple Acres. They saw groups of earth ponies pushing around plows clearing away the snow. Applejack cheered them on.

“Keep pushin’, Caramel!” Applejack said with a smile. “That’s it, Bumpkin! Ah know it’s hard work, but, yer all doin’ great!”

Spike and Twilight approached. “Hey, Applejack,” Twilight smiled. “How’s everything going?”

“And what’s Apple Bumpkin doing here?” Spike asked. “I thought she didn’t live in Ponyville.”

“Mah second cousin’s farm is a might closer ta Ponyville,” Applejack explained. “She can visit more often.”

“Oh~” Spike said. “That makes sense.”

“Anyway,” Applejack said. “Things’re startin’ out slow at first, but, peachy all the same. There’s a lot o’ ground ta clear. We got seeds ta plant, but, we can’t get ‘em planted ‘til we clear this here heap o’ snow.”

“I’d offer to melt it with my fire breath,” Spike said. “But, I don’t want to burn another park bench accidentally.”

“Mighty respectable, Spike,” Applejack said.

“I’d like to help,” Twilight said eagerly.

“Are ya sure?” Applejack said. “Them plows’re purty heavy n’ unicorns ain’t exactly as strong as earth ponies.”

“That may be true,” Twilight admitted. “But, I still want to help wrap up winter. Please, give me a chance.”

“She’ll keep asking until you do, AJ,” Spike whispered. “You may as well let her.”

“Well,” Applejack said. “Alrighty then.” She pointed to a spare plow. “Usin’ them plows is purty straightforward. Even ah could figger it out.” She then realized what she said. “Wait…”

“Uh, can I ask a question, AJ?” Spike asked.

“Sure, Spike,” Applejack said. “What’s up?”

“You’re basically the strongest mare in town, right?” Spike said.

“Ah reckon ah might know at least one er two mares stronger n’ me,” Applejack said. “But, ah do purty well for mahself.”

“Well, why aren’t you using a plow?” Spike asked.

“Take a look at mah vest pocket, Spike,” Applejack said. “Tell me what ya see.”

Spike took a look at her vest pocket. Instead of a plant, there was a five-pointed star. “A star?” Spike said.

“That means ah’m team captain,” Applejack explained. “Ah have ta supervise the others on mah team.”

“Oh,” Spike said. “That makes sense.” He then remembered seeing such a star on Rainbow’s vest. “Is Rainbow a team captain, too?”

“That’s right,” Applejack said. “Captain o’ the weather team. Amethyst Star’s captain o’ the animal team.”

“Wouldn’t it make more sense for Fluttershy to lead that team?” Spike asked.

“That’s what we kept tellin’ her,” Applejack said. “She just don’t like tellin’ others what ta do. Besides, the one time she did take the captain position, nopony could hear her orders.”

“That’s fair,” Spike said. “And since the captains only supervise, Fluttershy wouldn’t be able to do her favorite job of waking the animals from hibernation, so, there's that, too.”

“If only she wouldn’t take so long doin’ that,” Applejack muttered.

“What’s that?” Spike asked.

“Never y’all mind,” Applejack said. “There’s the plow, Twilight.”

“Thanks, Applejack.” Twilight smiled. So, she worked her way into the plow. She tried pushing with all her might, but, the plow barely budged. She panted, trying to catch her breath. When she did, she thought of what Spike said to her earlier. She looked around carefully to make sure nopony was looking before using her magic to make the plow move on its own. Spike and Applejack turned to see Twilight moving her plow.

“Huh,” Applejack said with surprise. “She sure is strong fer such a skinny pony. ‘Specially a unicorn.”

“Go, Twilight, go!” Spike cheered her on. Upon closer inspection, he noticed that Twilight’s horn had a faint aura. “What do you know? She’s taking my advice.”

“Advice?” Applejack asked curiously. “What advice?”

Before Spike had a chance to explain, Twilight started losing control of the plow. “Oh, no,” Twilight gasped in a panic. “Slow down, slow down!”

Alas, her words fell upon deaf ears as the plow picked up speed. “Help! HELP!” Twilight called out. As the plow got faster, the snow she was pushing rolled into a large ball.

Said ball kept getting bigger and bigger until it started approaching Applejack and Spike. “Not again!” Spike said. “Look out!”

Too late, the ball ran over the two and kept rolling. Applejack managed to have her head outside of the snowball.

“What’s goin’ on?!” Applejack called. “What’d ya do?! Ya used magic, didn’t ya?!”

Before Twilight could answer, the snowball crashed into a hillside. This time, Spike, being more bundled up than before, didn’t turn cold and stiff right away. However, an avalanche of snow made him worry that wouldn’t last for long. “This just isn’t my day,” the little dragon said in resignation.

Applejack saw the situation and grabbed Spike before the snow could envelope him. The rest of the plant team saw the snow approaching and undoing a portion of their work. “Oh, come on!” one stallion said. “We just cleared all that snow!”

“Sorry~!” Twilight called out to the other ponies.

Applejack and a still shivering Spike popped their heads out of the snow after Twilight. Applejack was less than pleased with what happened. “Nuts, Twilight!” She exclaimed. “Ya used more magic than ya should’ve!”

“C-c-c-could I have s-s-some c-c-c-cocoa?” Spike shivered before making a slight yawn. However, Applejack was in no mood to listen at that moment.

“This is why we don’t go in fer magic when we clean up winter!” Applejack said. “A little bit is fine if it’s ta help with creatin’, but, if it’s bein’ used fer buildup like this, then, it can cause problems fer us n’ yerself!” Twilight felt bad as Applejack continued yelling at her. “We don’t use magic ta clean up winter like the rest o’ y’all stuck-up Canterlot unicorns ‘round these here parts! ‘Specially not on mah farm!”

Hearing Applejack’s words broke Twilight’s heart. It seemed that everything she did that day turned into a disaster and tears welled up in her eyes. “It’s just… I just wanted to…” She stammered, but, she couldn’t find the words. She grabbed Spike and she ran off sadly, leaving the disgruntled plant team ponies to replow.

However, Spike stopped shivering and ran up to Applejack. “What the heck was that?!” Spike said in a state of anger Applejack hadn’t seen since the Zecora incident. The fire from his anger thoroughly warmed him up and Twilight looked on, tears still present in her eyes. “Twilight was just trying to help and you yell at her like that?!”

“She knew about the ‘no magic ta clear the snow’ rule,” Applejack said. “That just made me upset is all.”

“Twilight also tried helping the traditional way three times before,” Spike said. “They didn’t work out for her, either. What if I told you it was my idea for her to use magic, huh? Are you going to yell at me, too?!”

“N-no,” Applejack said. She now started to regret where she directed her anger.

“Well, I’m not going to give you the chance,” Spike said. “I’m going to Twilight.” The little dragon turned away from her.

“Wait, Spike!” Applejack said and she gave him the warmest hug that she had ever given someone. “Ah’m sorry. Ya were right. Ah shouldn’t’ve gotten angry at her fer tryin’ ta help.”

Spike broke free. “Don’t expect me to forgive you that easily,” Spike said.

“Ah can understand that,” Applejack said. “N' ya don’t have ta.”

“You have a whole team of ponies to yell at,” Spike said bitterly. “We’ll just be in your way.” And Spike went after Twilight, leaving Applejack with much to think about.

Soon, Spike found Twilight wallowing with self-pity in a bush by Town Hall. Spike had some tears in his eyes.

“Twilight?” Spike said. “I’m sorry. I should have never given you that idea to use your magic to clean up winter.” The little dragon sniffled.

“It’s not your fault, Spike,” Twilight said. “You were just trying to help and I appreciate that.”

“It is my fault, Twilight,” Spike said. “You got yelled at because of my idea and that’s not fair. I wasn’t just mad at Applejack. I was also mad at myself.”

Twilight climbed out of the bush and she gave Spike a comforting hug. “Maybe we’re both not meant to do Winter Wrap Up. Maybe we should have stayed home. None of us would have to deal with the hardships of the cold temperature or hot-blooded tempers.”

“But, you have to help,” Spike said. “You said yourself that it’s mandatory for everypony to help. I’m not a pony, so, I have a choice. I chose to help you.”

Twilight smiled warmly. “I’m glad you did choose that,” Twilight said. “I couldn’t have done this without you.”

“There has to be something you can do to help,” Spike said. “We just need to figure it out.” He then made a thoughtful expression.

As he thought, though, he could make out the sounds of various ponies complaining to Mayor Mare.

“That’s enough, everypony!” Mayor Mare exclaimed. “This sort of silliness is why we were late for spring last year and every year prior! You’d think that welcoming non-earth ponies would make spring come sooner! In comparison, that’s indeed the case, but, it’s still not on time!”

“It’d get here faster,” Applejack said before glaring at Fluttershy. “If somepony didn’t dillydally wakin’ critters ta keep the weather team from movin’ the clouds ta melt the snow so we can get plantin’!”

“You know I need to wake up animals slowly,” Fluttershy explained.

“That’s yer excuse every year,” Applejack said. “Why can’t ya consider the needs o’ yer fellow ponies over some critters fer once?”

“I am,” Fluttershy said. “If I wake them up too fast or too loudly, they’ll get grumpy and it could possibly risk a stampede through Ponyville.”

“So?” Applejack said before gesturing to all the snow. “There ain’t nothin’ fer the critters ta eat in all this here snow, so, it ain’t like we’ll have a shortage. Can’t run out o’ somethin’ that ain’t grown yet.”

Big McIntosh approached with a sheepish looking Caramel. “Uh, AJ?”

Applejack grew more annoyed. “Don’t tell me,” she said. “Caramel lost the grass seeds again, didn’t he?”

“Eeyup,” Big McIntosh simply said.

“Sorry, honeycrisp.” Caramel said, hanging his head with shame.

A pegasus mare with a wisteria coat and a fluffy pink lace mane and tail flew close to Mayor Mare and voiced her gripe. Rainbow was within earshot. “What now, Rainbowshine?” the athletic pegasus asked.

“Derpy accidentally went north to get the southern birds!” The pegasus, whose name was Rainbowshine, said.

Rainbow was exasperated. “That featherbrain!” she said. “She’s living proof of reincarnation. Nopony could possibly be that stupid in one lifetime! You’d think she would’ve learned her lesson last year when she went west or the year before when she went east!”

“Ugh!” Mayor Mare exclaimed. “I was hoping my amazingly inspirational speech would motivate you all to do better, but, now it seems we’re going to be later than ever! The ice scorers made the ice too thick to melt and the nest builder is horrendously behind! Not to mention all the snow on the ground, clouds in the sky, or icicles in the trees! It’s nearly sundown and it looks like spring is going to be late again! If only we were more organized!”

Twilight and Spike had been listening the whole time. “Hey,” said Spike. “Maybe that’s how you can help!”

“Spike,” Twilight said, suddenly feeling a newfound sense of motivation. “Please grab my clipboard and checklist, stat!”

“Oh, I already put them in your saddlebag before we left this morning,” Spike said. “Though, I think we should stop the argument right now. And I have a little way to do it without magic.” He stepped up, cleared his throat, and took a deep breath before shouting, “QUIET!!!”

This stopped the arguing right away and the ponies turned their attention towards Spike and Twilight. “Thank you, Spike,” Twilight said before she gave him his thermos of hot cocoa for his throat. She then turned her attention to the crowd. “I know you want to complete your jobs, but, arguing is not the way to go about it. What you need is organization and I’m just the pony for the job.” Spike pulled out the clipboard. “Now, I noticed problems with each team and I think I know how to fix them. Firstly, Rarity’s making nests all on her own. To fix this, I want every unicorn on the animal team pitching in to make nests to save a lot of time in the long run.”

The unicorn members of the animal team nodded with comprehension and immediately set to work making nests with their levitation magic. Within minutes, the nest quota was met.

After the nests were made, Twilight rallied the ice scorers. “Now, the ice scorers went wrong because they make too many different shapes of different sizes,” Twilight said. “To fix this, I want half the scorers skating left and right while the other half skates up and down to make perfect grids of square ice chunks.”

The earth ponies and unicorns on the weather team saluted, put on skates, and set off to do so. They all made perfectly square chunks with the lines they made.

With the ice cut, Twilight rallied the entire plant team. “Now, the plant team was all over the place,” Twilight said. “I have a plan to fix this. The ponies operating the snowplows all go in the same direction in different rows. While they’re clearing the snow, the ponies pulling the plows to till the soil follow the cleared path set for them. This leaves a path for the ponies sowing the seeds to follow.”

The plant team understood and set off to do this task. As they worked, Applejack not only supervised the teams, but, she also managed to give a warm-hearted apology to Twilight.

“Ah’m powerful sorry ah snapped at ya, Twilight,” the farm mare said, holding her hat over her chest. “N’ ah didn’t mean ta call ya out on bein’ from Canterlot n’ all. It weren’t fair ya got yelled at when it wasn’t yer idea ta use magic like that.”

“It’s okay, Applejack.” Twilight said. “It’s been a long day for all of us and sometimes, tempers get frayed. We’d all try just about anything at this point if things get hard.”

Applejack looked at how much progress was being made. “Well, ah’ll be,” Applejack said. “It’s quicker, but, still traditional.”

The two hoof-bumped each other happily over their progress.

After the seeds were planted, Twilight was setting up silver bells connected by ropes with Fluttershy near the burrows. “Now, Fluttershy,” Twilight said. “Where you went wrong is waking animals one den at a time and that takes too long. With this pulley system, you can wake up all the hibernating animals at once.”

Fluttershy gently tugged on the pulley rope and multiple bells rang. Sure enough, all the hibernating critters were woken at the same time. Twilight smiled at them, but, she panicked when she saw the snakes slithering out of their den. “I’m going to need to work on that,” she admitted.

Spike climbed up Fluttershy. “Okay, Rainbow,” he called out. “All the critters are up! You know what to do!”

“On it!” Rainbow called back. She then rallied her pegasi weather team squadron. “Alright, weather team,” she said. “Remember what Twilight told us and we can clear the clouds in the sky and icicles and snow in the trees all at once.”

The pegasi saluted, and with Rainbow leading the way, they charged through the clouds clearing them and the aforementioned snow and icicles. With the weather cleared, the plant team was freed to begin sowing more seeds. Since the snow and ice was starting to melt, the snowplows were no longer necessary.

Soon, the weather team sent to fetch the southern birds set off to fetch them. Twilight and Rainbow wisely had Derpy taken off that job and had her assigned to cloud-clearing for next Winter Wrap Up. “I can’t believe I didn’t think of that before,” Rainbow said.

“Think of what?” Derpy asked curiously.

“Taking you off bird fetching,” Rainbow said. “You go the wrong direction every year.”

“Oh,” Derpy said sadly. “Sorry.” She then pulled out a pocket watch. “I just don’t know what went wrong. I have a compass.”

Rainbow looked at the situation. At last, she realized why Derpy went the wrong direction every year. “That’s a pocket watch, Derpy.”

“Oh,” Derpy said. “That explains why it keeps ticking.”

Rainbow gently put a hoof to her face. Twilight comforted Derpy kindly. “You can have one of my compasses,” she offered. “I’ll even teach you how to use it.”

“Really?” Derpy asked happily as she hugged the unicorn. “Thank you, Twilight!”

The plant team continued sowing seeds late into the night. Even Spike helped out by planting some seeds himself.

The next morning, the southern birds were brought back and the plant team went about watering the seeds they sowed. It wasn’t long before every job was done and it was a beautiful spring day. All the ponies in town looked at what Twilight’s organization accomplished.

“I can’t believe it,” Mayor Mare said happily. “Spring is here, on time! And we have you to thank for it, Twilight. If it weren’t for your organizing skills, we’d still be arguing.”

“It was a team effort,” Twilight said modestly.

“Since you helped every team,” Mayor Mare said. “We have an official vest for you. Rarity, if you please.”

Rarity stepped up, levitating a vest with the colors of all three teams. “I would’ve used a different color altogether,” the fashionista admitted. “But, I feel this represents unity better.”

Rarity slipped the vest onto Twilight as Mayor Mare announced. “We give you the title of ‘All-Team Organizer!’”

“I don’t know what to say,” the humbled unicorn said. “Thank you everypony.”

“And thus,” Mayor Mare continued. “I hereby declare winter… wrapped up on time!”

The townsponies all cheered until Applejack suddenly gasped. “Uh, Twilight?”

“Yes, Applejack,” Twilight answered. “Is something wrong?”

“Spike can’t handle the cold too good, right?” Applejack asked, concern growing in her voice.

“No,” Twilight said. “What’s going on?”

“Well,” Applejack said, pointing ahead of her. “Ah reckon Spike’s in a real fix.”

Twilight followed the direction Applejack pointed and saw Spike sleeping on an unmelted chunk of ice. Twilight gasped and she used her magic to teleport him directly onto her back.

The teleportation woke the sleeping dragon. “Whoa, what happened?” Spike asked, discombobulated. “How’d I get here?”

“You were sleeping on a chunk of ice that was still melting,” Twilight answered. “I teleported you onto my back.”

“Whoa,” Spike said. “Sounds like that was a really close call. I do NOT need to be turned into a drake-sicle again.”

“We better get home,” Twilight said. “All of that work in the cold was tiring. After we rest, there’s a letter regarding my friendship lesson that needs to be written.”

“I can write it on the way back,” Spike offered.

“Don’t think I don’t appreciate that, Spike,” Twilight said. “I do, but, I would also appreciate you saving your strength so you can warm up. I don’t want you getting run down and sick.”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “Okay.”

At the library later, Twilight gave Spike some cocoa to warm him up again. “Ready, Spike?”

Spike took a sip of his cocoa. “Yep,” he answered. “I’m ready.” He readied a quill and scroll and Twilight told Spike what to write.

“Dear Princess Celestia,
Winter Wrap Up was one of the most special things I've ever been a part of here in Ponyville. It helped me to learn we all have hidden talents, and if we're patient and diligent, we're sure to find them, and as always, with good friendship and teamwork, ponies can accomplish anything.”

After Spike finished writing, he sent the letter with his magic fire breath. He then picked up his mug of hot cocoa and continued enjoying its contents. “Thanks for the cocoa, Twilight,” Spike said.

“And how about one more night in my bed with me, Spike?” Twilight offered. “I want to be extra sure that you’re kept warm before we adjust to the seasonal transition.”

“Thanks, Twilight,” Spike said. “Just like old times.”

Twilight had a nostalgic smile as she offered a hug to Spike.

Epilogue

The very next day, Rarity brought Spike into Carousel Boutique. “Now, to give you that emerald I promised,” the fashionista said.

“Really, Rarity,” Spike said. “You don’t have to give me one. I didn’t really do that good a job. The first three tries didn’t even look like a nest.”

“True,” Rarity said. “But, being able to make those shapes at all is still an impressive feat.” Rarity dug into the chest she used for storing gems only to come to a sudden realization. “Oh dear,” she said. “I’m so terribly sorry, Spike. It seems I’ve run out of emeralds.”

“It’s okay, Rarity, really,” Spike said, only for his stomach to make a loud rumble. Embarrassed, the young dragon quickly covered it.

“I would say this is a far cry from being alright,” Rarity said. “I promised you an emerald and it’s clear that your stomach insists on having one.” She then levitated her saddlebags and a wagon over. “We’re going on an emerald hunt!”

Rarity led Spike to an emerald mine just outside of town. Both stepped into the lift in the mineshaft and rode it to the lower levels. Once they were down, Spike was amazed at the sight of the beautiful green gems. “I’ve never seen so many emeralds in one place before!” Spike exclaimed. His stomach gave a slight growl again.

Hearing this, Rarity used her magic to extract an emerald roughly the size of a chicken egg and levitate it to Spike. “Here,” she offered. “This should hold you for a bit.”

Spike ate the emerald, doing his best to mind his manners. “Thanks, Rarity.” Soon, the two were unearthing more emeralds, filling Rarity’s saddlebags and the wagon.

“Say, Spike,” Rarity said. “Out of curiosity, do you enjoy ice cream?”

“Who doesn’t?” Spike answered with a question. “Well, aside from those who are lactose intolerant.”

“Fair point,” Rarity said. “I’m quite fond of vanilla oat swirl, myself.” She then saw some tiny emerald shards that looked like a fine powder. “Say, would you be willing to try an ice cream sundae with emerald sprinkles?”

“Like, sprinkles the color of emeralds?” Spike asked.

“Actually, I found some emerald shards in a fine powder,” Rarity explained. “Would you like to try them on a sundae?”

“Sure, why not?” agreed Spike. Suddenly, he noticed a wet patch of dirt. “Huh?” He dug at the patch, revealing what looked like solid ice. Rarity looked with him.

“Ice underground?” Rarity said.

“Must be permafrost,” Spike said. “Twilight said that it’s ground that’s been kept at 0 degrees celsius for at least two years.” He dug a little more, revealing that there was a stallion frozen inside. That stallion appeared to be moving slightly.

“Sweet Celestia!” Rarity exclaimed.

“We better get Twilight,” Spike suggested.

End of chapter.

Chapter 14: Suited for Success (S1:E14)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 14: Suited for Success

Three days after Spike and Rarity found the frozen stallion, said stallion had been taken to the Ponyville Hospital to thaw. Progress on that was slow-going. However, on this particular day, Rarity’s mind was occupied on something else.

“Oh, Opalescence,” Rarity said, talking to her pet cat. “Can’t you just picture it? Moi, stepping out in a stunning new gown at the Grand Galloping Gala in Canterlot!”

The Persian cat took little interest in what her owner was saying, being more engaged in the nap she was taking. Rarity then took a long bit of fabric and she wrapped it around herself. She then walked on acting as if she was at the event, not noticing that her pet was disturbed from her nap since she was resting on the very fabric Rarity took.

“Why, yes,” Rarity said to an invisible bystander. “I did make it myself. Thank you so much for noticing.” She then batted her eyelashes at her reflection in her full body mirror.

Opalescence attempted to nap on another piece of fabric. But, once again, she was disturbed. The cat growled lowly in annoyance. Before Rarity could respond, there was a knock at her door.

“Who is it?” Rarity called.

“It’s me, Spike,” a familiar voice answered.

“Ah,” Rarity exclaimed happily. “Come in. The door is unlocked.”

The little dragon entered and made it to Rarity’s room. “Anything you need help with today?” he asked.

“I might have some things I’ll need your help with,” Rarity said. “I’m working on my dress for the Grand Galloping Gala, so after I finish that, I’ll need to start work on your suit.”

Spike looked a little down. “Okay…” he said.

Rarity noticed this. “What’s the matter, darling?”

“It’s just,” Spike said. “I still remember the three times I tried going to the Gala with Shining Armor. I’m not sure this’ll be any different.”

“I can understand your worries, Spike,” Rarity said. “But, given that you have the VIP Pass, there is likely to be a change. After all, she did say that if the guards give you trouble, you can turn their attention to Celestia and Luna.”

“I guess that will help… somewhat,” he sighed.

“Don’t worry, Spike,” assured Rarity. “You’ll have us on your side, too. By that, I mean Caramel and the girls.” The white unicorn stepped up to Spike and rubbed his left cheek for good measure.

“Thanks, Rarity,” said a grateful Spike. “Can I help with anything in the meantime?”

As Spike and Rarity discussed, Opalescence had seen the scene going on and grew a little bit jealous of Spike. She then slunk over and tried to slash him with her claws. However, to her surprise, her claws ended up being stuck in the scales on Spike’s back and he didn’t even react.

Unaware of this, Rarity walked around Spike while thinking about a task to give him. “Well, perhaps you can see to it that–” Her thought process was interrupted when she suddenly noticed– “Opalescence has her claws in your back!!!”

“Huh?” Spike asked quizzically. He then looked to see the very cat on his back. “Huh, look at that.”

His casual tone further surprised Rarity. “Spike,” she said. “Those claws have effortlessly cut off parts of my mane on several occasions and they’re in your back! You don’t feel them?”

“I have thick scales,” Spike said. “I can’t feel a thing. In fact, if you ever misplace a pincushion, I can be used as a stand-in for one.”

“Even if you couldn’t feel it,” Rarity said. “I would never ask you to do such a thing. Twilight would think I was using you and never trust me alone with you again. That means I wouldn’t be able to take you on gem hunts anymore.”

“I would talk to her about it,” Spike said. “I would mention that it was my idea, not yours.”

“Regardless,” Rarity said. “Twilight only agrees to you helping me on the condition that I don’t take advantage of you. If I allowed you to stick pins in yourself regardless of whose idea it was, how do you think that would reflect on me?”

“Very poorly,” Spike said after thinking it over. “Okay, forget I brought it up.”

“Good boy,” Rarity said. “Now, please hold still as I remove Opal from your back.”

“Okay,” Spike said as he held still.

“Now, I want to apologize in advance,” Rarity said.

“Don’t worry about it, Rarity,” Spike said. Rarity kept a hoof on his tail as she used her magic to pull Opalescence off of Spike. It took a few tries, but, soon, the cat’s claws came out like a cork coming out of a bottle.

“Were you trying to slash Spike out of jealousy, Opalescence?” Rarity said, scolding the cat. The cat simply made a face that said ‘What if I did?’ “Let me make something perfectly clear, Opalescence. You must never lay a claw on him again or out you go. Spike is a good friend. You do NOT slash friends.” Opalescence made a face as if to say that she got the message. “Now, I feel a slight citation is in order.”

“What do you mean by that, Rarity,” Spike asked curiously. His answer came in the form of Rarity giving Opalescence various supplies.

“There we go,” Rarity said. “That should teach her how to behave a little bit.” She then began working on her dress.

As Rarity continued to work, Twilight and Applejack entered Carousel Boutique. Spike was sitting patiently near Rarity’s desk. Before Applejack could shout a greeting, Spike held his finger up to his mouth.

“Just so you know, Rarity,” Spike said softly. “Twilight and Applejack are here.”

“Oh, they are?” Rarity asked. Spike quietly nodded. Rarity turned to face the other two mares. “Anything I can help you with?”

“I’m sorry to trouble you, Rarity,” Twilight said as she grabbed something from the saddlebag she was carrying. “But, I need a quick favor. Can you fix this button for me?” She laid the item on Rarity’s desk, which turned out to be a small frilly dress with a loose button. Spike instantly recognized it.

“Hey, isn’t that the dress you wore at Shining’s graduation about eight years ago?” he asked.

Twilight nodded. “It suited me then, so it’ll work for this occasion.”

“I wouldn’t be too sure, Twilight,” Spike said. “You were a filly when you last wore this. You’re a bit bigger now.”

Twilight sighed. “I guess you’re right. I’ll take a look through my wardrobe later to see what I can find.”

“No need to do that,” Rarity said. “I can make you a brand new dress.”

Twilight was surprised. “You don’t need to do that, Rarity.”

Rarity, however, wouldn’t hear of it. “It’s no trouble at all,” she insisted. “Consider it payment for helping us get that frozen stallion to the hospital.”

“Well, only if you’re sure,” said Twilight. “I mean, you are making your own dress and a suit for Spike as well. That’s three whole outfits.”

“I admit it is a large order,” Rarity admitted. “Especially considering I don’t have any ponyquins that match Spike’s body type, but, I enjoy a challenge.”

“Well, sounds like ya have yer work cut out fer ya, Rarity,” said Applejack. “Just don’t push yerself too hard. Believe me, ah know what that can do…”

“Hmm… Applejack?” asked Rarity. “What are you wearing to the gala?”

“Ah’ll just go in mah work duds,” Applejack said. “Caramel’s wearin’ some mah family gave him.”

Rarity was flabbergasted. The idea of attending a formal event with such low class attire was unheard of to her.

“Work duds?” Rarity gasped. “I’ll not hear of it. You two are going on a date at the Gala, so you should wear something much more appropriate.”

“Ah tried wearin’ high class clothes when ah lived in Manehattan ten years ago,” Applejack said. “Didn’t really work out.”

“Yes,” Rarity added. “But, you’re not moving to Canterlot. You’re only going for a one night event. Maybe I can spruce up yours and Caramel’s duds a bit.”

Applejack considered. “Well, okay,” she said. “Since yer offerin’. Just don’t make ‘em too fancy. Don’t want nopony else thinkin’ we’re some high-falutin’ fancy-pantses.”

“Deal,” Rarity said.

Just then, Caramel came trotting in. “Spike, girls, I think you may want to watch out.”

“For what?” Spike asked.

Caramel tried to remember what he was trying to warn them about when–

“LOOK OUT BELOW!” a familiar voice called out.

“That’s what! Or rather, who,” Caramel said.

Rainbow Dash crashed through the roof of Rarity’s shop-slash-home, knocking over some ponyquins. “Sorry, Rarity,” she sighed. “New trick. Didn’t quite work.”

Rarity wasn’t happy. “Rainbow Dash,” she said sternly. “You’re paying for the hole in my roof!”

“Duly noted,” Rainbow nodded, sheepishly. “How much?”

“Including materials and labor,” Rarity said. “It’ll be 2000 gold bits.”

“Got it,” she replied. “I’ll be right back with the bits.” She got up, tangled in fabrics of different colors. “Uhh… please could I get some help?”

Rarity studied the brash pegasus for a moment when inspiration struck.

“Idea!” Rarity exclaimed. “I’ll make you an outfit for the Gala, too, Rainbow!”

“A what for the what now?” Rainbow said.

“The Grand Galloping Gala?” Spike said. “The one you and five of your friends got two tickets for?” Rainbow stared blankly. “A week after vanquishing Nightmare Moon?” Rainbow stared blankly more. “That I was given the VIP Pass to go to after you, Twilight, and most of the others tried to return the tickets?” Seeing that Rainbow still didn’t recognize it, Spike presented his VIP Pass with a bored/annoyed expression. “You wanted to go to see the Wonderbolts?” At last, Rainbow remembered.

“Oh, yeah!” Rainbow exclaimed. “Sorry, guess that crash gave me a little thunk on the noggin.”

“Wouldn’t be the first er last time,” Applejack quipped.

“Yes,” Rarity said. “I’ll make gowns for you three and of course Pinkie and Fluttershy. And of course, a suit for Spike.”

“Are you sure about that, Rarity?” Caramel asked. “I don’t pretend to know anything about dressmaking, but, making five and a suit for Spike is a pretty tall order. And what about your own dress?”

“Oh, Caramel,” Rarity said, a confident smile growing on her face. “I’ve made gowns and suits for the Gala before and the event isn’t until the end of the season. You make it sound as if it’s going to be hard.”

“N’ what about Caramel’s work duds?” Applejack asked.

Caramel was surprised. “What’s that now?”

“Ain’t that what yer fixin’ ta wear ta the Gala?” Applejack asked. “The work duds we gave ya?”

“That’s not what I meant,” Caramel said. “I was asking why you asked Rarity about them.”

“Rarity offered ta spiffy ‘em up,” Applejack explained. “Same with me.”

“Don’t worry,” Rarity said. “I’ll make sure they’re both practical for the gala and comfortable for your date.”

Caramel winced. “I don’t have any money on me. I leave my bits in my room at the Sweet Apple Acres guest house.”

“That’s alright,” Rarity said. “I do offer the option of payment after the finished product is complete. Though, this time, I’ll be doing it free of charge.” She then had another idea.

“What are you thinking, Rarity?” Twilight asked.

“Why not have a fashion show with the dresses?” Rarity said.

“That’s a fun idea,” Twilight said excitedly. “It would make me think of the games of dress-up I would play with my foalsitter.”

Spike got an idea of his own. “Please excuse me,” he said as he headed for the door. “I have something to take care of.” He then left after closing the door behind him.

The ponies were confused. “What was that about?” Rarity asked Twilight.

“I’m as confused as you are,” Twilight said. “I hope we didn’t upset him.”

“If we did,” Rainbow said. “It’s pretty weird that he was smiling as he left.”

“Well, we’ll find out what’s goin’ on when he gets back,” Applejack said.

“In the meantime, go tell the others,” Rarity said.

“We will,” Twilight said. “And thank you in advance, Rarity.”

After Caramel and the mares left, Rarity began singing to herself.

“Thread by thread, stitching it together
Twilight’s dress, cutting out the pattern snip by snip
Making sure the fabric folds nicely
It’s the perfect color and so hip!
Always got to keep in mind my pacing
Making sure the clothes’ correctly facing
I’m stitching Twilight’s dress~

Yard by yard, fussing on the details
Jewel neckline, don’t you know a stitch in time saves nine
Make her something perfect to inspire
Even though she hates formal attire
Got to get these duds all looking great
Making sure they’re perfect for her date
It’s Applejack’s new dress~

Dressmaking’s easy, for Pinkie Pie something pink
Fluttershy something breezy
Blend color and form-
Do you think it looks cheesy?”

The only one present was Opal, who simply mewed in response.

Something brash, perhaps quite fetching
Hook and eye, couldn’t you just simply die!
Making sure it fits forelock and crest
Don’t forget some magic in the dress
Even though it rides high on the flank
Rainbow won’t look like a tank
I’m stitching Rainbow’s dress~

Piece by piece, snip by snip
Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip
Thread by thread, primmed and pressed
Yard by yard, never stressed.
And that’s the art of the dress~

Later, Rarity summoned her friends and Caramel. All of them had their eyes closed.

“That’s it,” Rarity said, guiding them inside the room. “Keep them closed. Don’t look.” The friends eagerly had their eyes closed. “Okay,” Rarity said. “You can look now!”

They all opened their eyes. They gasped with surprise at the amazing dresses and tuxedo on Ponyquins. Caramel made an impressed whistle.

“You made all these in under an hour?” he asked.

“I did indeed,” Rarity said. “What do you think of your old duds now? Pretty swanky, are they not? And here’s your gown, Twilight. I tailored each one to match your unique personalities. Oh, it took me forever to get the colors right on this one, Rainbow, but, I did it. And it turned out beautiful, don’t you agree. And I know you’re going to love yours, Fluttershy. It sings Spring. And Pinkie, look! Pink! Your favorite! Aren’t they all amazing?” as Rarity was showing off her hoofy-work, Opal was padding around, marveling at each of the dresses and Caramel’s suit/modified duds, which consisted of boots and overalls that now resembled a tuxedo.

“I’ll say they are,” Caramel said. “Amazing how you made my hoof-me-downs look like a tux.”

The mares, however, were speechless. They weren’t sure what to say and this gave Rarity a slight touch of concern. At last, Twilight ventured to speak.

“Wow,” Twilight said. “They’re…” She couldn’t find the words.

“Yeah,” Rainbow tried to say. “They’re, um…” She too struggled.

“They sure are…” Applejack said. “Somethin’.” It wasn’t much, but, the others went with it.

“I love something!” Pinkie squeaked excitedly. “Something is my favorite!”

Fluttershy was the last to speak.

“It’s… nice,” she said softly.

Rarity, thanks to her Mystic Eyes, could tell they were holding back.

“Don’t you like them?” she asked. “You can tell me honestly.”

“They’re very nice,” Twilight said nervously.

“And we’re grateful you took the time to make them,” Rainbow added.

“But, they ain’t really how we figgered they’d be,” Applejack said bluntly.*

The others looked at Applejack at her remark.

“What’s the matter with you?” Rainbow said.

“Hey, she wanted us ta be honest,” Applejack protested. “Y’all were holdin’ back, n’ ah’m the Element o’ Honesty. What’d y’all think would happen?!”

“I guess what we’re trying to say is,” Twilight finally said. “They’re not what we had in mind.”

Rarity turned her head to Caramel. “What about you? Are these not the way you envisioned?”

Caramel put a hoof out. “Whoa, whoa, whoa, Rarity,” he said. “They do not speak for me. My suit’s perfect as it is.”

“You sure you don’t want any changes?” Rarity asked.

“None,” Caramel said. “I don’t feel right asking you to change something you already put so much effort into. It sounds pretty ungrateful to me.”

“Alright, then,” Rarity said. “As for these dresses, there’s more where that came from. These are just a first pass. You’re my friends and I want you to be one hundred and ten percent satisfied. Not to worry, I’ll make new ones.”

The mares, having heard Caramel’s words, winced a bit, knowing he had a point.

“Oh, Rarity,” Fluttershy said. “You don’t have to do that. They’re fine.”

Rarity, however, wouldn’t hear of it.

“I want these to be better than fine,” Rarity said. “I want you to think they’re absolutely perfect.”

“Y’all sure?” Applejack said. “It sounds like ya’d end up overworkin’ yerself, which ah told ya not ta do. We wouldn’t want ta impose, no how.”

“No imposition, darlings,” Rarity said. “Really, I insist.”

Though the mares felt a bit guilty having Rarity work harder, they felt it would be rude to decline.

“Well,” Twilight finally said. “In that case. Thank you again, Rarity.” She and the other mares left with a scowling Caramel.

Rarity smiled sheepishly, but, once they left, her expression dropped and she looked over the dresses. “What have I gotten myself into?”

Later still, Rarity was altering the dresses and wondering where Spike could be. At that moment, Fluttershy entered the room.

“Hello?” Fluttershy said softly. “You wanted to see me, Rarity? Is Spike here? I was hoping to invite him over for tea.”

“He’s not here at the moment,” Rarity answered. “He said he had something to take care of, but, he never told me what that was. Anyway, your new-new gown is ready. I completely revised it and I know you’re going to love it.”

Soon, Fluttershy was looking in the mirror at her dress.

“What do you think?” Rarity asked.

“I…” Fluttershy hesitated. “Love it.”

Rarity, with her Mystic Eyes, caught the detail in Fluttershy’s voice and face. “You’re just saying that,” Rarity responded. “No use trying to hide it from me. My Mystic Eyes may not detect lies, but, they can help me notice signs of somepony holding their opinions back.”

Fluttershy knew she couldn’t keep this up forever, so she decided to be upfront. “Alright, since you really want to know,” Fluttershy then took a deep breath and displayed something that Rarity was surprised to discover. “The arm’s a size tight, the middy collar doesn’t go with the shawl lapel, the hems are clearly machine stitched, the pleats are uneven, the fabric looks like tuile, you used a backstitch here when it clearly called for a topstitch or even a traditional blanket stitch, and the overall design is reminiscent of Pret-a-porter and not true Prench** haute couture.”

Rarity was utterly baffled by the detailed criticism. “You have a disturbing amount of knowledge on sewing.”

“I make a lot of blankets for the animals in my care,” Fluttershy explained. “I’d often borrow books on sewing from Miss Novel before she moved away.***” She then saw the look on Rarity’s face. “But, um, you know, um, whatever you want to do is fine.”

“Round up the girls,” Rarity said. “Clearly, the only way to get them what they want is to have them here and observe the process.”

Fluttershy did so after changing out of the dress.

Soon, the other mares were in Rarity’s boutique.

“I have a feeling Spike won’t be happy when he learns about this,” Twilight said as they climbed the stairs.

Rarity explained her new idea to the others.

“I guess that makes sense,” said Pinkie. “These dresses are going to be ours.”

“What do you want to see for your dresses?” Rarity asked.

“Well, maybe make mine look cooler,” Rainbow suggested.

“That’s not very helpful,” Rarity commented.

“I’ll know what I’m looking for when I see it,” Rainbow admitted. “It needs to be about 20% cooler.”

“Way ta narrow it down, Rainbow,” Applejack said sarcastically.

Rarity sighed. This was going to take a while.

“Now, the stars on my belt need to be technically accurate,” said Twilight. “Orion has three stars on his belt, not four.”

Rarity didn’t have Twilight’s intimate knowledge on astronomy, but, she simply went with it while singing.

Stitch by stitch, stitching it together
Deadline looms, don’t you know the client’s always right?
Even if my fabric choice was perfect
Got to get them all done by tonight
Pinkie Pie, that color’s too obtrusive
Wait until you see it in the light
I’m sewing them together~

Pinkie, suddenly having inspiration, began pitching ideas.

“Don’t you think my gown would be more ‘me’ with some lollipops?” Pinkie asked.

“Well…” Rarity started.

“Balloons?”

“Well…”

“Do it!”

Rarity sighed and continued working.

Hour by hour, one more change
I’m sewing them together, take great pains
Fluttershy, you’re putting me in a bind
Rainbow Dash, what is on your mind?
Oh my gosh, there’s simply not much time
Don’t forget, Applejack’s duds must shine
Dressmaking’s easy, every customer’s call
Brings a whole new revision
Have to pick up the pace, still hold to my vision

Soon, Twilight was showing Rarity a constellation.

“That constellation is Canis Major,” Twilight explained. “Not Minor.”

Some birds approached Rarity with a piece of parchment.

“Prench haute couture, please,” Fluttershy said softly.

Rarity groaned and levitated some fabric. She then met up with Applejack.

“What if it rains?” Applejack asked. She was suddenly struck with inspiration. “Galoshes!”

Rarity got to work and resumed work on Pinkie’s dress.

“More balloons!” Pinkie squeaked as Rarity added balloons. “Oh, that’s too many balloons.” Rarity removed them. “More candy.” Rarity added more candy when Pinkie immediately changed her mind. “Less candy. Oh, wait, I know! Streamers!”

Rarity was baffled. “Streamers?”

“Whose dress is this?”

“Streamers it is…”

While working on Rainbow’s dress, Rarity kept looking back at the pegasus.

“What?” Rainbow asked.

“Aren’t you going to ask me to change anything?” Rarity asked.

“No,” Rainbow responded nonchalantly. “I just want my dress to be cool.”

“That’s still not helpful,” Rarity said. “Do you not like the color?”

“The color’s fine,” Rainbow said. “Just make it look cooler.”

“You’re not giving me anything to work with,” Rarity said. “Do you not like the shape?”

“The shape’s fine,” Rainbow said, growing impatient. “Just make the whole thing, you know, cooler!”

“Why won’t you tell me what you want?!” Rarity said in frustration.

“I just did!” Rainbow insisted. “It needs to be about 20% cooler.”

Rarity was quickly losing patience. “Either give me something specific to work with or get out,” she said. “At least the others are making substantial suggestions.”

“Alright, alright,” Rainbow said at last. “Okay, so here’s what I’m thinking.”

The rest of the mares began singing a verse.

“All we ever want is indecision," sang Pinkie before Rainbow chimed in.

“All we really like is what we know," sang Rainbow before Twilight chimed in.

“Got to balance style with adherence," Twilight sang before Fluttershy chimed in.

“Making sure we make a good appearance," Fluttershy sang before Applejack chimed in.

“Even if ya simply have ta fudge it," Applejack sang before all the mares besides Rarity joined in.

“Make sure that it stays within our budget," they sang. However, that lyric gave Rarity pause.

“Wait just a minute here!” Rarity said, a record scratching noise accompanying her interruption. “Budget? What budget? I never charged any of you for these dresses.” Although, I probably should have, the fashionista said internally.

“No,” Pinkie said. “But, ‘budget’ was the only thing we could think of that rhymes with ‘fudge it.’”

“All the same,” Rarity said. “I have ‘dresses’ to work on.” On the “dresses” part, Rarity spoke with thinly-veiled sarcasm, which the others either didn’t notice or ignored. She then began to sing herself as the others left her to her work.

“Got to overcome intimidation
Remember it’s all in the presentation~!
Piece by piece, snip by snip
Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip
Fold by fold, primmed and pressed
Yard by yard, always stressed
And that’s the art of the dress~!”

After the song, Rarity fainted and looked at the modified dresses in clear dissatisfaction.

“Oh, Opal,” Rarity said in exasperation. “These are the ugliest dresses I ever made.” I hope they appreciate the effort I expended, she thought. I don’t know how many more changes I can make.

Later, Rarity rallied her friends again.

“Okay,” said Rarity. “I did exactly what each of you asked for. Don’t hold back, because I’ll know. Let me know what you really think.” She pointed to her eyes, adding, “I’ll know if you hold back.”

The other mares looked at the updated designs as Caramel stepped in.

“Oh, my!” Twilight said excitedly.

“It’s perfect!” Fluttershy put in.

“It’s cool!” Rainbow exclaimed happily.

“They’re the best duds ah ever did see!” Applejack said.

“It’s exactly what I asked for!” The five customer ponies said.

Rarity sighed in relief before Caramel put in his two bits. “This has to be a nightmare!” the stallion said. “There’s no way Rarity could design such eyesores!”

“We helped,” said Pinkie. “And they are not eyesores. They are perfect!”

“What would you know about fashion, anyway?” Rainbow said rudely. “You can’t even remember what day it is.”

At that moment, there was a flash of light outside Carousel Boutique and seconds later, Spike came in. He was so excited, he didn’t even see the dresses.

“There you are, Spike,” Twilight said. “Where were you? We were so worried!”

“Well,” said Spike. “You know Hoity Toity?”

Twilight blinked, something stirring in her memory. “The bigwig fashion hotshot in Canterlot?”

“Yep,” confirmed Spike. “And one of the few ponies in Canterlot who doesn’t have anything against me.” He cleared his throat. “I got an idea when Rarity decided to hold a fashion show. So, I went to the library, wrote to Princess Celestia to come and teleport me and herself to where Hoity Toity was, and I talked to him about coming to see the fashion show. When he agreed, I asked the princess to teleport me right outside the front door to Carousel Boutique.”

“Couldn’t you have just written to Hoity Toity directly?” Rainbow asked.

“I can only send letters to Princess Celestia,” Spike explained. “And I can only receive things she sends.”

“Fair enough.”

“N’ ya could sell a ton o’ dresses ta this guy,” Applejack said excitedly. “Yer business would be boomin’!”

“That’s so cool!” Rainbow grinned.

“Yeah,” agreed Fluttershy.

“I can’t believe it!” exclaimed Pinkie.

“Amazing,” Twilight smiled. “We better get ready for tonight,” she and the others besides Rarity, Caramel, and Spike left.

When the other mares left, Spike was finally able to get a look at the dresses. He was disgusted by the sight.

“What the heck are those?!” he said.

“Well,” Rarity began. “Let’s just say I had some ‘help’ from the others.”

“These are the dresses you made them?!” Spike said in disbelief. “They look terrible!”

“They weren’t her first try,” Caramel admitted. “I can’t remember what they looked like, but believe me, they were much better.”

“Oh, no,” Spike said, covering his eyes. “I’m so sorry, Rarity. I really jumped the cannon**** on this.”

“You had no idea, Spike,” Rarity soothed. “In fact, if it were my first pass, I’d be flattered by your gesture.”

“I wish I’d stayed a bit longer,” Spike lamented. “Maybe then, I could’ve done something to save the designs. I can’t ask you to work on my design now. I don’t want you working any harder than you already have.”

“Come now, darling,” said Rarity. “I always will make time for you. This might take my mind off… Ugh…” She shuddered. “Now, where’s my tape measure?”

Spike helped Rarity out, but, he didn’t have the enthusiasm Rarity grew accustomed to when he helped her out. Rarity could tell that Spike was upset with his friends. This was a feeling she also began to feel.

As she continued taking his measurements, Rarity could tell he was becoming submissive, a stark contrast to his usual assertive attitude. “Is something wrong, Spike?” she asked.

“The others have already been making you work so hard today,” Spike answered. “This morning, I wanted to help you out. Now, I feel like I’m burdening you with even more work.”

“Spike, you are not burdening me at all,” Rarity assured. “Far from it. I enjoy having you around and you deserve a handsome suit at the Gala. To be perfectly honest, you’re helping me in a big way right now. I don’t have any ponyquins matching your body type, so, I need you as a live model.” She rubbed his left cheek. “And I don’t want you to worry about repaying me, either. It’s all free. Chalk it up to experimentation. You’re helping me design something beyond my purview.”

Spike felt just a little bit better.

By the time Rarity had finished designing Spike’s suit, there were a lot of ponies outside the boutique. Spike swallowed the lump in his throat. “Well, looks like it’s time for the show,” Spike said, sounding more confident than he really was. The trio looked into the audience and saw an earth pony stallion with a phthalo bluish gray coat, a mane and tail of light sapphire bluish gray with light gray stripes, a Cutie Mark depicting a paper fan, purple sunglasses, hoof cuffs, and a flared collar and neckerchief around his neck. They knew at once that stallion was Hoity Toity.

“I’m not taking part in it,” said Caramel.

“I understand, Caramel,” Rarity said. “I won’t subject you to the same humiliation I’m sure to face. Second-hoof or otherwise. Especially since the suit I made for you looks better by comparison. Ponies would think I deliberately make mares worse clothes than stallions.”

“Yeesh…” he shuddered. “Guess we have no choice but to see it play out… Though, I’ll distance myself from the audience.”

Caramel caught sight of a colthood friend of his trot over with a microphone. He was a yellow unicorn with a blue shooting star cutie mark and two-toned blue mane. That stallion gave the microphone to Spike. “Here you go, little guy,” the stallion said.

“Hey, Comet Tail,” said Caramel. “Uh, the situation is a bit… complicated. I won’t be in the audience.”

“Oh… okay.” He shrugged. “Are you still going to announce Rarity’s designs, Spike?”

“I may as well,” Spike said. “It’s my fault for jumping the cannon.”

He stepped up to the stage and cleared his throat.

“Since the beginning of time, the elite of Equestria have longed for pony fashions that truly express the essence of their very souls,” he began. “Patiently waiting decades, no, centuries, for the perfect pony gown or suit.” He covered the microphone before saying, “They’ll have to wait a bit longer…” He then uncovered the microphone and continued, “Today at last, Equestria, your wait is over. Let’s hear it for the breathtaking…” He covered the microphone again. “And insanely overhyped…” He uncovered the microphone again, “Designs of Ponyville’s very own… Rarity!”

The curtain went up and the light came on. Finally revealed the dresses. They were… in a word, amateurish. Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow, Pinkie, and Fluttershy strutted onto the catwalk, looking and feeling confident. The onlooking ponies winced and cringed at the sight of what the mares were wearing. As the five were standing on a lazy susan, Applejack noticed the looks of the audience.

“Why’s everypony lookin’ at us like that?” she whispered to Twilight.’

Twilight looked over her ensemble, this time with a more analytical look. That was where she realized her and her friends’ collective mistake. “Oh dear,” she said softly.

“You think we overdid it?” Rainbow whispered to Applejack.

Applejack glanced down at the galoshes on all four of her own hooves. “Ah’d say we did,” she whispered. Pinkie and Fluttershy tentatively nodded.

It was at that point that Hoity Toity gave his critique.

“Oh, these amateurish designs look like an over-accessorized, piled-up mishmash of everything but the kitchen sink!” He exclaimed. “It’s a travesty, that’s what it is. These outfits are the ugliest things I’ve ever seen! Who is responsible for subjecting us to these horrors? They clearly don’t know the first thing about fashion!”

The five mares on the lazy susan winced, silently agreeing that their suggestions made Rarity look bad.

Looks like I owe Caramel an apology, Rainbow thought to herself.

“Hoity Toity, sir,” Twilight at last said. “This was our fault.”

Rarity, however, wouldn’t let her friends suffer. So, she stepped up. “Don’t blame them,” she said before confessing. “I was the one who designed these. I’m the amateur you wish to blame.”

“Rarity,” Fluttershy said softly.

The ponies in the audience muttered to themselves. Among which were sayings like, “I thought Rarity’s fashion designs were better than this,” and “I guess even fashionistas have their rough patches.”

Four days later, Rarity’s friends knocked on her bedroom door, a disgruntled Spike and Caramel with them.

“Rarity?” Pinkie called. “You okay in there? You haven’t come out for days.”

“And I’m not coming out ever again!” Rarity declared. “I can never show my face in Ponyville again!”

In her bedroom, Rarity was pacing the floor in a pink robe while lamenting her situation.

“I used to be somepony,” she wallowed. “I used to be respected! I made beautiful, beautiful dresses. But, now, everypony is laughing at me! I’m nothing but a laughingstock!”

Twilight tried desperately to assure Rarity to the contrary. “You’re not a laughingstock.”

“She actually kind o’ is,” Applejack said bluntly.

“Way to help the situation, Applejack,” Spike said sarcastically.

“Come on out,” Twilight said gently. “We can talk about this.”

“Leave me alone~” Rarity cried dramatically. “Just leave me to wallow in–” She struggled to think up the next word. “Whatever ponies are supposed to wallow in. Oh, listen to me! I don't even know what I’m supposed to wallow in! I’m so pathetic! Why did I listen to any of you?! This whole mess is my fault!”

At that, Spike had enough. “You’re not taking all the blame for this, Rarity,” he said assertively. “We’re ALL at fault. You for pandering to five mares who know nothing about fashion, those same mares for not appreciating the work you put into the supposed first designs and making you push yourself,” he then began glaring pointedly at Applejack as he continued. “Even though one of those mares advised you not to do that, me for jumping the cannon and preventing myself from being able to talk sense into the ungrateful mares, and Caramel for not trying to talk sense into them even though he was there!”

“Then, you should all be off having your own pity parties~” Rarity sobbed. “I vant to be alone!~”

Spike turned to the other mares, who expect him to yell at them, only to be surprised when Spike instead said very calmly, “Come on, let’s go. It’s obvious that she needs her space.”

The mares were surprised with this, but, they walked on. They could tell that he wasn’t mad, just disappointed. This was a feeling they understood because they were feeling guilty themselves.

“You were right, Spike,” Twilight said. “Rarity was making us those dresses out of the goodness in her heart and we ended up asking too much. We should’ve followed Caramel’s example and be satisfied with what we got.”

“Which begs the obvious question,” Spike said. “Why did you allow yourselves to criticize Rarity over something you knew nothing about?”

“Well, at first, we tried telling Rarity that we wouldn’t ask her to change them,” Fluttershy said. “But, when she insisted on making us a hundred and ten percent satisfied, we felt it would be rude to decline.”

“But, breathing suggestions down her neck and making her work herself to the bone is perfectly acceptable?” Spike questioned.

The mares sighed sadly. They knew Spike was right on that remark as well.

“She didn’t have to make you those dresses, you know,” Caramel added. “She was doing you all a favor.” He then glared at Rainbow. “Even you when you punched a hole in her roof.”

“You remember that?” Rainbow asked in surprise.

“That’s not the point,” Caramel said, still clearly vexed. “You took advantage of a friend’s generosity. I may not remember a lot, but, even I know that friends don’t treat their friends that way. Funny how that works.”

The mares took in Caramel and Spike’s words and they truly felt ashamed for their actions.

“Oh, how are we going to fix this?” Twilight said.

“I would suggest panicking,” Fluttershy said. “But, I don’t think it’ll accomplish anything.”

“‘Course it won’t,” Applejack said.

“Still, we can’t just leave Rarity like this,” Rainbow said.

“If we don’t help Rarity,” Pinkie said in a worried tone. “She’ll become a crazy cat lady!”

“She only has one cat,” Twilight pointed out.

“Give her time,” Pinkie said. “She might open her home to stray cats.”

“That’d sound more like something I’d do,” Fluttershy admitted.

Spike suddenly remembered seeing the ponyquin that was housing the Gala dress Rarity was making for herself. He snapped his claws while saying, “That’s it!”

“What’s it, Spike?” Twilight asked.

“Remember that spell that makes things flat as paper?” Spike asked Twilight.

“Yeah,” Twilight said. “It was one of the spells I learned during Proportions and Properties 101 for Transfigurations. Why do you ask?”

“I have a plan to get Rarity out of her room and have you repay her generosity at the same time,” Spike said.

So, the friends gathered and listened to Spike’s plan.

“What’s the plan, Spike?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well, first,” Spike explained. “Twilight casts that spell I mentioned so I can sneak under Rarity’s door. And yes, I’m aware of how creepy that sounds.”

“Given what we’ve been through,” Applejack said. “Ah don’t think we’re in any place ta judge. Heck, part o’ what got us in this mess was us judgin’ somethin’ we didn’t know nothin’ ‘bout in the first place.”

“Anyway,” Twilight said. “Please continue, Spike.”

“Thank you,” Spike said. “Now, while she’s distracted by her own misery, she won’t notice me moving the ponyquin with the dress she was making for herself to her bedroom window. I’ll open it so Fluttershy and Rainbow can move it outside the window. I’ll also throw down Rarity’s design so Fluttershy can try finishing it.”

“We can handle that,” Rainbow smiled. “But, how do we get Rarity’s attention?”

Spike saw Opal laying on a blank ponyquin. “Opal’s meowing should do the trick,” he said.

The ponies nodded and got to work.

A few hours passed and Rarity was still as upset as ever. Throughout that timeframe, she didn’t notice a flat-as-paper Spike slinking past her and quietly moving the ponyquin with her unfinished dress or anything else going on. One thing she did notice, however, was that her cat, Opal, was nowhere in sight. Though, she was too busy thinking about what to do in exile to pay that much mind and the memory that she didn’t let the cat into her room made it a moot point anyway.

“Exile,” Rarity lamented. “I guess technically I’ll have to move away to live in exile. Where would I go? And what would I pack? Oh, goodness, it’s going to take forever to do all of that packing. What does one pack in order to go into exile? Are you supposed to pack warm?”

She was interrupted from her thoughts when she heard a familiar meowing.

“Opal?” Rarity gasped.

Rarity looked out the window to see Opalescence on the branch of a tree that was outside of her bedroom window. The cat was fearfully clinging to the branch.

“Opal!” Rarity exclaimed frightfully. “Don’t worry, Mama’s coming!”

Rarity, still clad in her robe, rushed out of her house/place of business to find Rainbow in the same tree as Opal, who was now calm and reserved.

“What in the world?” Rarity said in confusion. “What’s all this about?”

“We needed to get you out to show you this,” Rainbow explained.

Rainbow pointed to the ground to the other ponies and the still flat Spike. They parted from their crowd and presented them with an incredible sight. There on the ponyquin was Rarity’s gala dress. It wasn’t a work in progress, however, it was a fully finished gown. Rarity found herself at a loss for words.

“We finished your—whoa!” Spike said as he tried to keep his balance, which was difficult with him being so flat and flimsy. Twilight caught sight of this and she undid the spell she cast on him.

“Sorry, Spike,” Twilight said sheepishly.

“It’s okay,” Spike said before noticing that his head spines were still flat. He easily fixed that by blowing into his thumb and reinflating them. “What I was saying before was we all finished your dress for you, Rarity!”

“But, how did you get it out of my room?” Rarity asked. “That ponyquin was in my room, which I had closed off.”

“That was part of Spike’s plan,” Twilight said. “I cast a spell on him to make him flat enough to slip underneath your bedroom door. He then tasked Rainbow and Fluttershy to grab the ponyquin and sneak it out of your window. You were too distracted by your pity party to notice.”

“Y’all can thank Fluttershy fer doin’ most o’ the work,” Applejack said.

Fluttershy blushed modestly before saying to Rarity, “Do you like it?”

Rarity carefully studied the dress. “Like it? Like it?”

This didn’t spell good news for them.

“Uh, oh.” Fluttershy said softly. “She doesn’t like it.”

“Can’t say ah’m surprised,” Applejack said. “We’re the ones what made it.”

“No,” Rarity said at last. “I don’t like it.”

The ponies and Spike were about to walk off in defeat when something unexpected happened. “I love it!”

“We actually did somethin’ right?!” Applejack asked in surprise.

“I know Fluttershy had a knowledge of sewing,” said Rarity. “But, how did you manage to get the dress to my vision?”

“I took care of that, too,” Spike said before presenting Rarity’s design. “I gave them your design for good measure and helped guide them on what to do. I help you out often enough that I have an eye for your designs and fashion sense.”

“Yes,” Fluttershy said. “We followed your amazing designs.”

“Like we should have let you do for our dresses,” Twilight said. “Caramel was right. The first dresses that you designed for us were perfect.”

“And now, there’s no time to remake them all,” sighed Rainbow Dash.

Just then, Spike and the ponies heard a clatter inside Rarity’s shop. They went inside and found Sweetie Belle and her friends buried under ponyquins wearing exact copies of the original dress designs Rarity made.

“Apple Bloom!” cried Applejack. “What’re ya n’ yer friends doin’ in here?”

“We wanted ta try designin’ uniforms fer the Cutie Mark Crusaders,” Apple Bloom explained. “Sweetie Belle was showin’ us around.”

“Sweetie Belle,” Rarity said. “I thought I told you to stay out of my prototype closet!”

Sweetie Belle was surprised. “These dresses are prototypes? They look absolutely stunning!”

Rarity got a closer look at the dresses. “They… your first dresses!” She gasped, levitating them neatly back up. “I forgot I made duplicates of the first designs!”

“Why’d ya make two?” Applejack asked.

“One set is the initial mock up, the other’s the designs I tweak to the specifications of clients should they ask,” Rarity explained. “It’s a system I developed to ensure customer satisfaction. It’s also in case of fires happening.***** I store the initial mock ups in my prototypes closet.”

“Try them on!” Scootaloo encouraged.

“We can be your test audience,” Sweetie Belle added excitedly.

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom put in. “This could be fun ta watch, too.”

“That’s very sweet,” Rarity said. “But, the input of three school-age fillies won’t be enough to restore my shattered reputation and career.”

Spike noticed Hoity Toity on a stroll. “I know somepony who CAN!” he said. “You girls wait here while I pull some strings.” He then headed for the stallion.

“Hey, what about me?!” Caramel asked indignantly.

Rainbow was about to comment before Applejack glared at her. “I’ll shut up now.”

“Oh, I left yours over here,” Rarity levitated a sixth ponyquin over with Caramel’s suit. “You can join in, too. Since you didn’t ask for any alterations, you can wear the tweaking design or the initial mock up and nopony would know the difference.”

“Either will be fine,” he said. “I’ll probably forget the difference between the two of them anyway.”

“That’s the beauty of it,” Rarity said. “The designs have practically no differences whatsoever.”

Spike then opened the boutique door and Hoity Toity walked in.

“Alright,” Hoity Toity said. “I haven’t got all day.”

Seconds later, Hoity Toity was sitting down to watch the show. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were also curious to see it and joined him. Spike turned off the lights.

Rarity used her magic to create an atmosphere of lights being cast around the area. Almost like a disco. The first of the dresses revealed was Twilight’s. A royal blue color with a star brooch and a light blue saddle. Silver, white, and light blue stars added some dazzle to the design and she wore light blue shoes. Her slate blue mane was adorned in a low bun and she wore light blue star-shaped clip-on earrings.

“Hello~!” Hoity Toity said with an impressed air. He even lowered his sunshades in amazement, revealing light cobalt blue irises. “Oh, this can’t be the same designer.”

“Wow,” fasped Sweetie Belle. “Twilight looks so pretty.”

After a flash of bright light, the imagery magically changed to an apple orchard. One particular apple is lassoed off of its tree. This was done by Applejack, who, along with Caramel, stands on the runway in western style formal attire. Applejack’s dress consisted of a new brown cowboy hat, the green collar and apple bolo tie, green boots trimmed with red/white on forelegs, red saddle with brown trim and a long, fringed underlying green piece that resembled a saddle blanket. Every piece was decorated with apples. Both she and Caramel stood close together.

“Simply magnificent!” Hoity Toity said delightfully. “And I suddenly have a fierce craving for some apple pie, caramel apples on a stick, apple turnovers, apple cobbler.”

Apple Bloom rolled out a cart full of the various apple products Hoity Toity listed. “Good thang ah brought this,” she said. “We got all that n’ more at Sweet Apple Acres.”

Hoity Toity gratefully gave Apple Bloom a sack full of gold bits. “Thank you, young lady,” Hoity Toity said. He then helped himself to the treats available.

“Y’all go, sis!” cheered Apple Bloom. “Lookin’ good, Caramel.”

As Hoity Toity sampled the treats, the visuals changed again.

This time, clouds formed in the “sky.” Instead of rain, however, it was raining candy. Several pieces of candy corn and pink and blue lollipops landed on Pinkie’s gown. A wrapped candy piece also landed on Pinkie’s pillbox hat. She even opened her mouth so that a gumdrop could land on her tongue. She then posed enthusiastically.

“Brilliant!” Hoity Toity exclaimed happily.

“That candy corn looks like Pinkie’s gettin’ prepared fer Nightmare Night,” Apple Bloom commented.

“Candy corn can be enjoyed any time of the year,” Sweetie Belle said. “My mom sometimes gets some for Hearth’s Warming.”

Suddenly the sound of thunder could be heard as the visuals changed again. Bolts of rainbow-colored lightning flashed across. Gray clouds covered the makeshift sky and obstructed the illusion of the sun. Through those clouds, beams of light on the color spectrum shone. They formed together in a rainbow pattern: one that adorned the skirt of Rainbow’s gown.

“Wow, Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo cried. “Awesome!”

“Spectacular!” Hoity Toity said.

The visuals began to change once more. Flowers began to grow and pastel colored petals exploded off of them. Flurries of butterflies also fluttered about until a pastel blue one landed on Fluttershy’s ear. It then turned into a butterfly-shaped clip on earring. Fluttershy’s gala dress was then seen in full glory, which was a long flowing willow-inspired gown and vine fastened front with a blue butterfly.

Hoity Toity began applauding.

“Now this is a fashion show!” Hoity Toity said happily. “All of these dresses and the suit are absolutely amazing! Who is responsible? Step forward, show yourself!”

Rarity lit up her horn. She, too, was wearing her Gala dress, but, she also accessorized with a gold tiara adorned with a rose-colored spinel as well as matching earrings. Hoity Toity cheered even more.

“Brava! Brava!” Hoity Toity applauded. “Magnifico! Encore!”

Rarity was touched. “Oh, thank you,” she said gratefully.

“I must admit,” Hoity Toity said. “I was skeptical when Spike asked me to see this fashion show, given the previous disaster, but, it seems that his praise for your designs before the first one do hold water after all. Spike’s clearly someone who knows quality when he sees it. Where is he, anyway?”

At that comment, Caramel, the mares, and the fillies noticed that Spike was nowhere to be seen. Suddenly, Spike stumbled out of a changing room, tangled up in his suit.

“Note to self,” the young dragon said. “The best place to dress up: not in the dark.”

“Let me help you with that,” Twilight offered, using her magic to dress Spike up properly.

“Thanks, Twilight,” Spike said gratefully. He then stepped onto the catwalk.

“Another smashing design,” Hoity Toity said. “I didn’t even know it was possible for a pony to design clothes for a dragon.”

“Well, here’s to firsts,” Spike said.

“It certainly helped having a living model,” Rarity said with a grateful smile.

“And there’s something I need help with, too, Spike,” Twilight said.

“Friendship report?” Spike asked rhetorically.

Twilight smiled. Spike was right on the money as a quill and scroll were readied.

Spike, Caramel, and the mares all stepped into a well-lit showroom. “Okay, Twilight,” Spike said. “Hit me.”

“Dear Princess Celestia,
This week, our very talented friend Rarity learned that if you try to please everypony, you often times end up pleasing nopony, especially yourself. And my friends and I learned that when someone offers to do you a favor, like making you a beautiful ensemble, you shouldn’t be overly critical of something generously given to you, especially if you don’t have prior knowledge of something that someone has in spades. In other words, you shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth.”

Spike rolled up the scroll and used his fire breath to send it away. “I have to say, Spike,” Twilight said. “I was expecting you to yell at us when we were at Rarity’s door, trying to get her to come out.”

“Well, my therapy sessions recommended I try to cut back on the yelling,” Spike explained. “Save my vocal chords some stress.”

“It’s good to see you’re taking it to heart,” Fluttershy said as she stepped up to him and gave him a loving nuzzle. “It’s very upsetting when you yell.”

“Don’t worry,” Spike said. “I’ll save my big boy voice for when there’s real need for it.”

“In light of recent events,” Rarity said. “I’m going to start charging you for dresses I make for you outside of special occasions. Further alterations will cost extra to ensure that all of you getting carried away doesn’t happen again.”

“Believe us, Rarity,” Twilight said. “After what we put you through, that is more than fair.”

“We thought it’d be rude to decline your offer to revise the dresses,” Fluttershy said. “But, it would’ve been kinder to accept the first dresses as they were.”

“We’re so super sorry, Rarity,” Pinkie said.

“Ya worked real hard ta make our dresses exactly the way we wanted ‘em,” Applejack said. “N’ we all saw how that turned out.”

“We’ll leave fashion designs to you since, let’s face it,” Rainbow said. “What we know about fashion could fit between our eyes. The list of what you know would be as long as my wingspan.”

“Can you ever forgive us, Rarity?” Twilight said.

“Consider your stellar job finishing my dress as compensation,” Rarity said before facing Rainbow. “Except for you. You still need to pay for my roof.******”

“Fair enough,” Rainbow said with a noticeable sweat drop. “It’s times like this that living in a cloudo bites.”

“You live in a cloudominium?” Twilight asked.

“Well, yeah,” Rainbow admitted. “That’s why I can’t invite anypony there except Fluttershy and other creatures that can fly. The rest of you will fall through the clouds. My cloudo isn’t as high as Cloudsdale, but, it’s still high enough that if any of you fall through it, something’ll get broken. Since most of my bits are made in Ponyville, they don’t have the enchantment that keeps them from falling through the clouds.”

An enchantment to keep things from falling through the clouds, Twilight thought. I’ll have to check the library for such a spell. It might come in hoofy.*******

Hoity Toity then entered the room. “Rarity,” he said. “My congratulations to you on an impressive fashion debut! Would you do me the honor of allowing me to feature your couture in my Best of the Best Boutique in Canterlot?” Rarity gasped happily.

“Why, yes, I would~!” Rarity said excitedly before regaining her composure. “I mean, I would be honored.”

“Excellent,” the stallion said. “Do you think you can make a dozen of these suits and dresses by next Tuesday?”

Hoity Toity’s sentence caught Rarity slightly off-guard and she had rather strained laughter. Spike noticed this and stepped up. “Uh, maybe give her an extension?” he suggested. “She’s only one mare.”

“Ah, yes, of course,” Hoity Toity said. “Apologies. Perhaps the deadline shall be the end of next month?”

Rarity sighed in relief. “That’s much more reasonable,” she said.

“Excellent,” Hoity Toity smiled. “Looking forward to working with you.”

After Hoity Toity stepped out, Rarity rubbed Spike’s left cheek. “Thank you, Spike,” she said. “You’re a lifesaver.”

“For you, Rarity?” Spike said. “Anything.”

End of chapter.

Chapter 15: Feeling Pinkie Keen (S1:E15)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 15: Feeling Pinkie Keen

It had been a week since Rarity’s fashion debut with Hoity Toity. In that time, April had come and Rarity’s birthday was the previous day. Twilight was training with Spike to sharpen her magic skills. This time, she was working on transfiguration.

“Now, remember what I told you, Spike,” Twilight said. “I need you to stand perfectly still to avoid any mishaps. I don’t want to accidentally transfigure your shoulder.” She then added with a twinge of regret, “Again.”

“I will, Twilight,” Spike said. “Believe me, the last thing I want is my shoulder being turned into a cat again.”

So, Twilight had gently put a rock on Spike’s head, covered his chest in leaves, and had him hold a stick. She focused her energy into her horn. The leaves turned into the top half of a tuxedo while the stick became a walking cane. As Twilight was about to turn the rock into a top hat, Spike thought he heard something. Though, he kept as still as he could. The rock on his head was partially transfigured. It took the shape of a top hat, but, still had the rock’s mass and texture.

“Come on~” Twilight said, straining. “Just a bit more…” However, her concentration was broken.

“Twitchy twitchy twitch-a-twitch!” A familiar voice exclaimed. The voice disrupted Twilight’s concentration to the point where instead of finishing the transfiguration, Twilight blasted the rock, splitting it in two.

“Oh my goddess!” Twilight exclaimed before getting close to Spike. “Spike, are you okay?! Did I hurt you?!”

“I’m okay, Twilight,” Spike said. “No part of me has been transfigured.” He then felt the scales on top of his head. “And all the scales on the top of my head are still there.”

Twilight sighed in relief. “Oh, good,” she said. “That voice sounded like Pinkie. We better see what’s going on so that we don’t get distracted again.”

“Right behind ya, Twi,” Spike said. He then thought of something. “Hey, Twilight?”

“Yes, Spike?” Twilight said.

“Why didn’t we just practice the spell in the library?” Spike asked.

“The supplies I needed were outside,” Twilight said. “The book lists this spell as a Godmother Miracle spell. Those have best results outdoors.”

“You know, I never understood the inclusion of ‘miracle,’” Spike said. “I mean, just by definition, wouldn’t a miracle be something good that happens with no natural or scientific explanation?”

“By definition, yes,” Twilight explained. “But, even miracles take time and effort and sometimes, it doesn’t always last. It’s like the aspects of breezies’ tales to some level.”

“I’m going to assume this conversation will go nowhere?” Spike said.

“Only if you keep overanalyzing things,” Twilight said. “The irony is NOT lost on me.”

They soon saw Pinkie looking up at the sky nervously. Her bouncy plume of a tail was twitching wildly and she was wearing a rainbow-colored umbrella hat. Pinkie looked at it as if it were a dangerous omen.

“Pinkie?” Twilight asked. “Are you alright?”

“My tail’s twitching,” Pinkie said. “You know what that means!”

“Actually,” Twilight said. “I don’t know what that means. Do you know what that means, Spike?”

“Maybe she needs a flea bath?” Spike said in an offhand manner.

“My twitchy tail means something’s going to fall from the sky!” Pinkie explained in a worried manner. “It’s part of my ‘Pinkie Sense!’”

“That’s not really clearing anything up,” Spike said.

“I told you about it, didn’t I?” Pinkie said.

“We’ve been here for over nine months and we’ve literally never heard of it before today,” Twilight said.

“Oh,” Pinkie said. “Well, long story short, my ‘Pinkie Sense’ is a sense in my body that tells me what’s going to happen.” Her tail twitched again. “My tail twitching means something’s about to fall from the sky!”

Twilight was having difficulty believing this.

“I’m sorry, Pinkie,” Twilight said. “But, I don’t see how something is supposed to fall from the sky on a day like this. There’s hardly a cloud in the sk-” Smack! She was interrupted by a frog landing on her face. After this happened, Pinkie’s tail stopped twitching.

“That was it,” Pinkie said.

The three looked up, once Twilight gently moved the frog to her head, to see Fluttershy with a cart of frogs in tow as well as frogs in her saddlebags and in a basket.

“Oh my!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “I’m so sorry about that!” She gently landed near them and spoke to the frog on Twilight’s head. “Now, come along, Francis.”

The frog named Francis croaked and jumped into Fluttershy’s saddlebag.

“Hey, Fluttershy,” Spike said. “What’s with all the frogs?”

“Oh, I’m relocating them, sweetie,” Fluttershy explained. “Their pond’s been getting overpopulated, so, I’m moving them to a place Zecora told me about. Froggy Bottom Bog.”

“Can I come and help out?” Spike asked.

“I’m sorry, Spike,” Fluttershy said. “Zecora said not to bring you there under any circumstances. I don’t know why, though.”

“Hmm,” Spike said. “Well, if that’s what Zecora said, it must be for a good reason. She knows the wild better than any of us.”

“Tell you what, Spike,” Fluttershy said. “I’ll make it up to you by making you some andalusite shard cookies at our next tea party. Is that okay?” Andalusite shard cookies were a gem-based alternative for chocolate chip cookies for Spike, who enjoyed them very much.

“Yeah, that’s okay,” Spike smiled. “Thanks, Fluttershy.” The grateful little dragon hugged the demure pegasus.

“I’ll see you guys later,” Fluttershy smiled. Once Spike let go of her, she took off slowly so as not to drop any more frogs.

“That was really sweet of Fluttershy,” Pinkie commented. “I’ll have to talk to the Cakes about making treats with gems in them for Spike.*”

“That would be nice,” Twilight smiled. “You could do that for his birthday or something.”

“Say, Pinkie?” said Spike.

“Yeah, Spike?” Pinkie responded.

“Is your ‘Pinkie Sense,’ kind of a Mystic Eyes-type deal?” Spike asked. “You know, a random chance occurrence ability that only a select few ponies have?”

“A little bit,” Pinkie said.

“Well, that checks out a bit,” Twilight said. “I read that there’s a few earth ponies capable of things their race is normally incapable of.”

“Yep,” Pinkie said. “So far, I’m the only pony in Ponyville that I know of that has a ‘Pinkie Sense.’ Of course it’s different to the individual. I just named it after myself when I was a filly.”

Suddenly, her tail started twitching again.

“Uh-oh!” Pinkie yelped. “Something else is going to fall!”

At that moment, Ash was approaching with a small wagon of milk bottles in tow. His eyes were closed and he seemed to be putting in a lot of effort. “Okay, I just need to deliver my mom’s milk to Sugarcube Corneeeeeeeer!” On the last word, he fell into a ditch.

Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie heard the sound. Pinkie’s tail stopped twitching. Twilight and Pinkie then helped Ash out of the ditch. “Are you okay, Ash?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah,” Ash said. “We cattlefolk have pretty thick hides.”

“Good to know you’re not hurt,” Pinkie smiled. “My tail was twitching before, but, it looks like it stopped now.”

“That ditch needs to be filled up or something,” Ash commented. “Or at least have some boards over it.”

At that moment, a group of Earth pony stallions arrived. They were working on the ditch, but, they were on a lunch break until now. “We’ll take care of it,” one said.

“This ‘Pinkie Sense’ is interesting,” Spike said. “If you can see the future—”

“I can’t sense the future any longer than an hour or two,” Pinkie interrupted. “Normally, I know only a minute or two in advance.”

“Oh, I see,” Spike said. Ash carried on to deliver the milk to Sugarcube Corner after Twilight levitated the wagon to the other side of the trench. At that moment, Applejack arrived.

“Hey, y’all,” Applejack smiled. “How’s everyone doin’?”

“Well, Ash fell in the ditch after Pinkie got a twitchy tail,” Spike explained.

“Twitchy tail?!” Applejack gasped as she hid under a stand. “Is it still a-twitchin’?”

“No,” Pinkie said. “It stopped after Ashy-boy fell in the ditch.”

“I see you’re more familiar with ‘Pinkie Sense’ than Spike and I are, Applejack,” Twilight said. “It makes sense since you’ve lived in Ponyville longer than we have.”

“Wait,” Applejack said as she got out from under the stand. “Y’all didn’t know ‘bout it?”

“We only just found out about it today,” Twilight said.

“Everypony in town knows ‘bout it,” Applejack said. “Even them non-ponies ‘round town.”

“Are you sure you’re not pulling my leg?” Twilight asked.

“Did you really ask Applejack, the pony who wields the Element of Honesty, if she’s teasing you?” Spike asked. “She’s a terrible liar. Whenever she tries, it makes her sick to her stomach. Believe me, you don’t want to know how I know that.”

“Ah can prove it,” Applejack said. She then called out to Doctor Whooves, who was on a stroll. “Hey, Doc! Ya hear that Pinkie’s tail was a-twitchin’?!”

“Pinkie’s tail was twitching?!” Doctor Whooves gasped. He then made a mad dash to cover his head.

“It stopped moments ago,” Pinkie said.

“Oh, thank goodness,” Doctor Whooves panted. He then resumed his stroll.

“See?” Applejack said. “Ah know it don’t make a whole lot o’ sense, but, anypony who’s lived in Ponyville a while comes ta learn that if ‘Pinkie Sense’ is goin’ on, ya better listen.” She then spoke more pointedly. “Don’t try disprovin’ it. Smarter ponies went crazy tryin’.”

“Thanks for letting us know, Applejack.” Twilight said. “Instead, I’m going to try to understand it better.**”

Suddenly, Pinkie’s ears started flopping.

“Ah!” Pinkie yelped. “My ears are flopping!”

“What’s that mean?” Spike asked.

“It means someone is going to get covered in mud,” Pinkie answered. “I’ll start a bath.”

After she left, Twilight had a puzzled look.

“This ‘Pinkie Sense’ is going to be hard to understand,” Twilight said. “But, it would still be an interesting learning venture.”

At that moment, one of the earth ponies filling the trench threw mud onto Spike.

“Oof!” Spike exclaimed. “Looks like that bath that Pinkie’s running is for me.”

He headed in the direction Pinkie left with a bit of a smile.

Soon, Spike was soaking in the bubble-topped warm bath. As Spike was bathing, Pinkie explained more of her “Pinkie Sense” to Twilight. Though, she commented on Spike’s attitude first.

“Spike’s pretty happy about this,” she said. “I thought he’d complain or need more convincing.”

“Trust me,” Twilight said. “Spike loves taking baths. He’ll do so for hours if you let him.”

“Wow,” Pinkie said. “That must make things easy.”

“We’re trying to keep it under seven hours***,” Twilight said. “To save on hot water.”

Pinkie was confused. “Wouldn’t he just be bathing in the same tub for that long?”

“He feels the water cools down too quickly,” Twilight said. “So, he drains the cooling water and refills the tub again.”

“Oh~” Pinkie said.

“Now,” Twilight said. “What other signs are there?”

“Well,” Pinkie explained. “I get little tingly feelings giving me vague ideas of what’s going to happen. Like, if my back is itchy, that means it’s my lucky day. And if my knee gets pinchy, that means something scary’s about to happen.”

“Is it pinchy now?” Spike asked.

“No,” Pinkie said as she looked at her left shoulder. “But, my shoulder’s achy. That means there’s an alligator in the tub.” Sure enough, a small alligator emerged from the bubbles.

Twilight instinctively used her front hooves to get Spike out of the tub.

“How come your knee didn’t get pinchy?!” exclaimed Twilight. “That isn’t just scary, that’s downright dangerous!”

“Not with this alligator,” Pinkie said. “His name’s Gummy.”

The alligator, whose name was Gummy, opened his mouth to reveal that he didn’t have any teeth.

“He hatched the day before my 15th birthday,” Pinkie explained. “Fluttershy gave his egg to me as an early gift.”

“When was that?” Twilight asked.

“Oh, about two weeks before you two came,” Pinkie answered.

“Ah, how nice,” Twilight smiled. “Wait, you’ve had him that long and we’re only seeing him now?”

“He usually stays under my bed,” Pinkie explained. “He has a little baby gator bed he sleeps on. Well, it was a kitty cat bed that I configured into a baby gator bed, but, you get the idea.”

Gummy proceeded to gum at Pinkie’s mane and tail.

“It looks like he likes to bite,” Spike said. “Probably getting some practice before his teeth grow in.”

“And he’ll bite anypony nearby,” Twilight commented. “Didn’t you consider that?”

“I did,” Pinkie said. “But, I’m training him to make sure he bites food and not living folks.”

“Maybe he’ll grow up choosing not to eat meat,” Spike said. “It worked for me.”

“There are lots of other yummy things that gators can eat,” Pinkie smiled. “He sometimes gets a few bugs to tide him over.”

“Alright,” Twilight said.

After finishing Spike’s bath, Twilight carried him on her back to the Golden Oak Library with Pinkie following.

“So,” Spike said. “Your ‘Pinkie Sense’ manifests in various body quirks?”

“Yeah,” Pinkie said. “And sometimes, it’s a bunch of different things happening to my body. I call them ‘Combos.’”

“What’s an example?” Twilight asked with genuine curiosity.

“One of my favorite ones is an ear flop, then a knee twitch, then an eye flutter,” Pinkie explained. “That means that the sky is going to be graced with a beautiful rainbow. But, only if those happen in that specific order. If the eye flutter happens before the knee twitch, that means watch out for opening doors.”

“I imagine it was confusing when you were first learning about this,” Twilight said.

“It was,” Pinkie explained. “It took me years to pin down individual signs and I’m still trying to figure out Combos. Some have different signs happening at the same time, making them harder to pin down.”

“I see,” Twilight said. “Say, Pinkie, would you like to be part of a series of experiments I’m conducting?”

“Uh, I don’t know,” Pinkie said nervously. “The last time somepony asked to experiment on me, I ended up having something crammed in my—”

Twilight could see where Pinkie was going and quickly cut her off. “No, no, no,” she said. “Trust me, we will not be doing that kind of experimenting.”

“I was going to say ‘mouth,’” Pinkie finished.

“Oh,” Twilight said, an embarrassed sweatdrop on her head. “Well, I won’t be doing that.”

“What did you think I was going to say?” Pinkie asked in confusion.

“Well, I thought that—” Twilight said before stopping herself. “Never mind. It’s too weird.****”

A short time later in the basement of the Golden Oaks Library, Twilight was hooking Pinkie up to a machine. There was a helmet on her head that looked more like a colander with Hearth’s Warming bulbs. “So, how does this work?” Pinkie asked. “Do you just wait for me to start twitching?”

“That would be very unproductive,” Twilight said.

“So…” Pinkie started, still confused.

“We’re going to trigger events that make your ‘Pinkie Sense’ go off,” Twilight explained. “The machine will record scientific data on the reactions.”

“Oh~” Pinkie said. “That makes sense.”

“Spike’s behind the door right now,” Twilight said.

Pinkie then felt a combo coming on: ear flop, eye flutter, and knee twitch. At that moment, Spike opened the door.

“Did it work?” Spike asked.

“Yes, it worked,” Twilight smiled. “Her ‘Pinkie Sense’ did the combo she mentioned which means watch out for opening doors. Thank you, Spike.” Twilight then checked the data printed. “Good, good.”

Spike came down the stairs. “What are the results?” he asked.

“This step was a success,” Twilight said.

“How many steps are there?” Pinkie asked.

“That depends,” Twilight said. “How many ‘Pinkie Senses’ have you counted for yourself so far?”

“I never actually kept count,” Pinkie admitted. “But, I did make a list of the signs after connecting the dots.”

“Ah, this is good information,” Twilight smiled.

“Can I be unhooked now?” Pinkie asked. “I’m starting to feel like a guinea pig.”

“Yes,” Twilight said. “This may carry on for a long time if we researched every single one of your twinges.” She unhooked Pinkie from the machine. “Where do you keep your list, anyway?”

“I feel like it would be in her room or something,” Spike said, hazarding a guess.

“Actually,” Pinkie said, reaching into her mane and pulling out a journal. “I keep it in my mane. Never know when a new sign or combo will come up.”

“Mind if we look through it together?” Twilight asked.

“Tell you what,” Pinkie offered. “Follow me around and watch me. You can check my journal for signs and what they mean.*****”

“I can do that,” Twilight said. “Just act natural.” Pinkie began bouncing around like a monkey. “Not that natural!”

Pinkie couldn’t help but giggle.

After lunch, Twilight and Spike were observing Pinkie, who pretended to be oblivious. Pinkie even let Twilight borrow a spare pith helmet. Presently, Pinkie was rolling in the grass in the playground by the Ponyville Schoolhouse.

“Hmm,” Twilight said. “So far, nothing too exciting is happening.” She then saw Pinkie get an itchy nose before looking around nervously. “Spike, anything on an itchy nose?”

Spike skimmed through the pages of the journal and he came across an entry. “Itchy nose,” Spike said, reading aloud. “Equals a swarm of wasps is approaching. Take shelter.”

At that very moment, Ash was walking by them when he spotted a swarm of wasps.

“Oh, jeez!” Ash exclaimed. He then ran for his life with the wasps in pursuit.

“Well, that checks out,” Twilight said nervously.

“When Fluttershy gets back from Froggy Bottom Bog,” Spike said. “She’ll have to tend to Ash’s stings.”

A few minutes later, Twilight and Spike were observing Pinkie at Sweet Apple Acres. Pinkie was happily smelling a flower.

“Looks like Pinkie’s smelling a flower,” Twilight said. “I don't think that’s one of her ‘Pinkie Senses,’ though.”

Spike looked through the journal. “I’m not seeing it,” he said. “Though, I kind of expected that since she’s doing something within her control.”

Just then, a combo of Pinkie’s happened: ear flop, eye flutter, knee twitch. Twilight observed this. “Ear flop, eye flutter, knee twitch,” she noted.

“That’s the one to watch out for opening doors,” Spike said. He looked to see a barn door nearby. “It can’t be that one. We’re not in the path of the bottom half of that door.”

“So, that ‘Pinkie Sense’ must be a warning of a different opening door,” Twilight said. “So, be on the lookout.”

At that moment, a cellar door opened as Caramel was approaching it. “Oh, hey, you two,” he said to Twilight and Spike, forgetting to watch where he was going. “What brings you two heeeeeeere~?!?!” Distracted, Caramel tripped and fell down the cellar steps.

“Caramel!” Applejack’s voice exclaimed from inside the cellar. “Are ya alright?!”

“I think I broke something,” Caramel grunted. A painful crack was heard. “Yep, I definitely broke something.”

“Hang on, Ah’ll help ya,” Applejack said. She came out of the cellar with Caramel on her back before making a beeline for the hospital.

A short time later, Twilight and Spike were observing Pinkie again, this time at the park. Berry Punch was stumbling around. “Looks like Berry Punch hit the bottle again,” Twilight said.

“She must have been at some shindig,” Spike said. “That or the local tavern. One or the other.”

Suddenly, Pinkie’s tail started twitching.

“Spike, watch your head,” warned Twilight. “Twitchy tail.”

Upon hearing that, Spike clung to Twilight instinctively.

“What was that about a twitchy—” Berry Punch began before a flowerpot landed on her head. “Oof!” Then, an anvil fell on her head. “Uh!” After that, a cart of hay bales. “Ow!” Finally, a grandmaster piano. “Oof!”

Twilight and Spike looked up to see some pegasi with a moving cart in tow. One of the ponies was Derpy Hooves. The forestallion looked at her with disapproval.

“That explains where those things came from,” Spike said. “I think we should get Berry to the hospital.”

“Good idea, Spike,” Twilight said. She levitated the objects to reveal the battered, but, still alive Berry Punch. “Berry Punch, Spike and I are going to take you to the hospital.”

Later, Pinkie was sitting around when Rarity and Rainbow trotted up. “I told you, Rarity,” the pegasus said. “I’ll pay you in full once my bank account has the bits I need.”

“Yes, I understand,” Rarity said. “It is a good thing I just finished the last ensemble for Hoity Toity’s boutique.”

“Ahead of schedule, too,” Rainbow said. She then spotted Pinkie. “What’s going on here?”

“Oh, letting Twilight follow me around while she learns to understand my ‘Pinkie Sense,’” Pinkie answered with a smile.

“Okay, that sounds kind of creepy,” Rainbow said as Applejack stepped up.

“Hey, Applejack,” Pinkie said. “Is Caramel doing okay?”

“His front legs’re in casts,” Applejack said.

“Well,” Pinkie said. “We’ll make sure to bring him some get well soon presents when visiting hours are going on.”

Twilight and Spike stepped up.

“Hey, Twilight. Hi, Spike,” Pinkie smiled. “How are you handling watching my ‘Pinkie Sense?’”

“Every sign matched the listed predictions,” Twilight said.

“That’s good,” Pinkie smiled. “So, what do you guys want to do no-w-whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa~!” Pinkie was about to offer an invitation, when suddenly, her entire body began to shiver.

“What’s that mean?” Spike asked.

“I don’t know,” Pinkie answered honestly. “I never got this feeling before, but, whatever it was, it was a real doozy! And something tells me it’s going to happen at Froggy Bottom Bog!”

“That’s where Fluttershy is!” Spike said in alarm.

“She might still be there!” Twilight exclaimed. “We’ll have to find her and warn her!”

“I’m going, too,” Spike said bravely. “I may have been told not to go there no matter what, but, I can’t let my friend be in possible danger!”

“I know the way,” Pinkie said. “Don’t ask me how.”

“Lead the way, Pinkie!” Rainbow said with determination.

With that, Pinkie led Spike and the mares to Froggy Bottom Bog. Rarity even put aside her fear of getting messy for Fluttershy’s safety.

“What do you think happened to her?” Spike asked Applejack.

“Hopefully nothin’,” Applejack said. “Ah’m tryin’ not ta think about it.”

“Yeah, me, too,” Spike said. “But, I can’t help but wonder.” His expression grew more afraid. “What if she exploded?!”

“Just exploded?” Applejack asked. “Fer no reason?”

“I may not be a genius,” Rainbow said. “But, I’m pretty sure that makes zero sense.”

“But,” Pinkie added in. “What if there was a reason why she exploded?! Maybe some creature made her explode and explode again!”

“That makes even less sense!” Twilight said. “Even if something made her explode, she couldn’t possibly explode twice.”

“Indeed,” Rarity said. “I’m certain Fluttershy will be alright and we’ll protect her from any possible disaster.”

“Froggy Bottom Bog ahoy!” Pinkie said.

Indeed, they had reached Froggy Bottom Bog. In a short distance, they saw Fluttershy helping the last of the frogs get adjusted to their new home. She was perfectly fine.

“Fluttershy!” Spike said, hugging her tightly. “You’re okay!”

“Of course I’m okay,” Fluttershy said with a slight gasp. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

At that moment, Zecora entered the bog and approached Spike.

“Spike!” Zecora gasped. “I thought I had told Fluttershy this morning to stay away from Froggy Bottom Bog! Did you not get my warning?” The ponies all stared up in Zecora, who was devoid of her usual rhyming. Something really was up if that was the case.******

“She did, but, I was too worried about her,” Spike said.

“If you remain here,” Zecora said. “A young death is guaranteed! I implore you, little dragon! From this place, you must flee!”

“Why me specifically?” Spike asked.

“A hydra calls this bog his home,” Zecora warned. “He feasts on young dragons that heedlessly roam.”

At that moment, three serpentine creatures arose from the bog.

“Y-you mean like that one?” Rarity stammered.

The middle of the three heads turned its attention to Spike. “Well,” it said in a snake-like voice*******. “It looks like a little fly found its way into my web.”

“You’re not eating our friend on our watch!” Rainbow called to the hydra. The Hydra responded by breathing a foul-smelling gas at her. Rainbow coughed and gagged at the stench.

The right head sniffed at Spike. “Not molting yet,” it said in a similar voice. “But, I bet he’ll taste just as good.” It grabbed Spike with a long tongue while Zecora and the ponies were busy choking on the gas.

“Ahh!” Spike screamed. “Help!”

The ponies and Zecora regained their senses just as the head started to swallow Spike whole.

“Like Tartarus!” Rainbow said as she charged at the head that swallowed Spike. She flew so fast, she cut the head clean off before Spike reached the stomach. The beast roared in agonizing pain as his severed head fell to the ground and a hydra drool-covered Spike emerged near Zecora and the other mares.********

“I… was not ready for today…” said the shaken drake.

“I don’t think any of us were,” Twilight said.

“Cauterize the wound!” Zecora called.

The two remaining hydra heads glared at Rainbow.

“Do you know…” the first head said. “How long it’ll take to repligenerate that?!”

Rainbow was confused. “Come again?”

At that very instant, the hydra grew two new heads from the spot where the severed one was cut. “Thanks to me being a hydra,” the beast’s heads said in unison. “An ultimately futile effort. But, if it’s any consolation, that hurt like Tartarus!”

“That is what I was trying to warn you of!” Zecora called.

“I vote we run like Tartarus,” Rainbow said.

The others quietly agreed and they began to run away from the hydra. Zecora reached into her cloak pocket.

“Alright, beast!” Zecora called. “Leave my friends be! Go back to whence you came!” She threw a vial of a purple liquid that shattered against a rock, releasing the smell of lavender.

At the fresh smell, the hydra reeled back in fear.

“No~” gasped the middle head of the hydra. “My one weakness outside cauterizing my wounds: lavender!” The beast ran away from the smell as Spike, Zecora, and the ponies got to safety.

“Thanks, Zecora!” Spike called. “I owe you one!”

“But, why did it run away from lavender?” Rarity asked.

“Odors that can choke the likes of you and I,” Zecora said. “Are the what hydras breathe in order to thrive.”

“So,” Applejack said. “They thrive on stinky smells, but, retch on fresher smells?”

Zecora nodded.

“Well,” Twilight said. “Pinkie said a doozy would happen in Froggy Bottom Bog and that hydra definitely qualifies.”

However, Pinkie began to shiver again. “Actually,” Pinkie said. “The doozy still hasn’t happened yet.”

“Huh?” Spike asked in confusion.

Twilight couldn’t believe what she was hearing. “WHAT?!” she shouted. “The hydra wasn’t the doozy?! How could it not be?! What could be a bigger doozy than that?!”

“I don’t know,” Pinkie said, shrugging her shoulders. “But, it just wasn’t it.”

Twilight’s temper began rising until she jumped into the air with her coat turning burnt white, her irises losing their pupils and turning red, and her mane and tail turn into flames. She didn’t even have a visible Cutie Mark.

“Whoa~” Applejack said. “Maybe there are some instances of ponies explodin’.”

Before landing again, Twilight reverted to normal with some burn marks. She then exhaled an exasperated sigh. “I give up.” And she collapsed onto the ground.

“Give what up?” Spike asked.

“The fight,” Twilight said softly. “It’s clear to me that ‘Pinkie Sense’ somehow makes sense. I don’t need to understand it in depth.”

“Y-y-you mean it-t-t-t?” Pinkie asked mid-shiver.

“I was just trying to understand it,” Twilight said. “But, every time I think I have it down, something new comes along.”

Pinkie continued to shiver, until she zonked out and even briefly inhaled like a balloon. She is back to relative normalcy and she looks over herself. “That’s it!”

“What’s it, Pinkie?” Rarity asked.

“That was the doozy!” Pinkie said. “Twilight admitting she can get by with a basic understanding!”

“So, that’s that taken care of,” Fluttershy said. “We better get back.”

“No argument from me,” Spike said. “When we get back, the first thing I want to do is take a bath and put being almost eaten behind me.”

“I still can’t believe there’s a creature that can eat dragons,” Fluttershy said.

“I didn’t even think that was possible,” agreed Rainbow.

“Of such beasts,” Zecora said. “The hydra is one of three, though they can only feed on dragon babies.”

“There’s three creatures that prey on dragons?” Spike said, his worry increasing.

“Only when they’re small,” Zecora said. “Should they face a grown dragon, they’ll stand no chance at all.”

“I see,” Twilight said. “I’ll have to learn more about this to make sure Spike is safe.”

“After what happened today,” Spike said. “I’m not going anywhere within ten hoofs of Froggy Bottom Bog.”

“Good idea,” Fluttershy said kindly. “I can give you some aromatherapy candles for your bath if you want.”

“Sounds great,” Spike smiled. “Thanks, Fluttershy.”

Later, Spike was being bathed by Twilight and Fluttershy. He breathed in the soothing aroma of the candles, feeling much more relaxed.

“Spike’s certainly enjoying his bath,” Fluttershy said.

“He’d take a bath for hours if you let him,” Twilight said. “We’re trying to keep it under seven hours.”

“I see,” Fluttershy said. She washed behind his ear fronds and Spike seemed to relax as if he were a dog. This made Fluttershy smile with giddiness. “He’s so adorable!”

“He really is,” Twilight smiled. After the bath, Twilight dried Spike off and embraced him. “Please don’t scare me like that again, Spike.”

“I won’t, don’t worry,” Spike said.

Later, Spike was getting the supplies for a friendship report. He looked to see Pinkie and Twilight both sporting umbrella hats. “What’s going on?” he asked.

“Pinkie’s tail’s twitching,” Twilight said. “I have to be prepared for it.”

“Okay,” Spike said. “I’m ready.”

“Dear Princess Celestia,

There's nothing wrong with wanting to know how or why something works, there are things in life that remain unanswered and they'll likely stay that way until somepony is willing to devote themselves to asking the right questions.

But, some things simply can’t be explained in depth and in such cases, sometimes a basic understanding is enough.*********

It's important to get all the facts before you draw a conclusion and sometimes you'll have to accept that your initial idea or your initial thought about how something worked didn't turn out to be true. Like with friendships, it's important that you keep on trying even if you don't get it right the first time.

Also it is important to realize when you and your friend see the world differently and how important it is to accept that your views may not change. Just because you don't believe in another way of thinking doesn't automatically mean others are wrong for thinking it. Understanding other viewpoints is a key part of any good friendship.

Your faithful student,

Twilight Sparkle.

P.S.: Pinkie says 'Honk!'”

“Thank you, Spike,” Twilight smiled.

“Is it okay if I send it from the balcony?” Spike asked.

“Of course,” Twilight smiled. “But, be careful.”

“I will,” Spike said. “I’ll catch up with you guys to visit Caramel after I’m done.”

As Spike headed for the balcony, Pinkie and Twilight wondered what would fall. “I wonder what it could be this time?” Twilight said.

Before Spike had a chance to breathe his fire breath, Princess Celestia landed on the balcony from the sky. This caught Spike by surprise.

“You know about ‘Pinkie Sense?’” Spike asked.

The alabaster alicorn nodded. “If you’ve been around as long as I have,” she said. “You tend to learn that stranger things exist.”

“Holy guacamole!” Spike exclaimed with amazement as he handed Princess Celestia the letter. “Uh, can I ask a quick question?”

“Of course, Spike,” Princess Celestia said soothingly.

“Why did you show up to get the letter instead of letting me send it?” Spike asked.

“Oh, I just felt like switching things up today,” the princess admitted.

“I guess that’s understandable,” Spike said.

The princess then took off and Spike waved goodbye to her. He then made his way downstairs to catch up with his friends.

End of chapter.

Author's Notes:

Here's another chapter.

*FORESHADOWING!!!

**I feel that Twilight should have an easier time believing in the "Pinkie Sense," considering everything she's seen thus far. So, instead of outright disproving it, she tries to understand it.

***MORE FORESHADOWING!!!

****Phineas and Ferb reference FTW.

*****I had this chapter written this way to save Twilight stress in the long run.

******In my take, Zecora tends to drop or alter her rhyming in dire situations.

*******Imagine TFS Imperfect Cell. Reference:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8U2GCUYdEg

********Don't worry, there's no blood. Don't ask how.

*********This thematically fits my rewrite.

Now, you probably noticed Twilight's not the only target of the "Pinkie Sense." That was deliberate on my part to avoid making this a Twilight torture porn.

If you liked this chapter, feel free to contact me via private messages if you'd like to help make future chapters.

Chapter 16: Sonic Rainboom (S1:E16)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 16: Sonic Rainboom

It was six days after the “Pinkie Sense” debacle. In that time, Fluttershy had her 17th birthday on the second day after the debacle, followed by Applejack, who had her 19th three days later. On this particular day, the sixth day, Rainbow was coaching Fluttershy.

“Now,” Rainbow said. “What did we learn?”

“Loss of control,” Fluttershy said.

“Good,” Rainbow nodded.

“Screaming and hollering,” Fluttershy continued.

“Yes,” Rainbow said. “And, most importantly…” She allowed for Fluttershy to finish the sentence.

“Passion,” Fluttershy finished.

“Right!” Rainbow excitedly exclaimed. “So, now that you know the elements of a good cheer, let’s hear one!”

Fluttershy inhaled and said, barely above a whisper, “Yay!”

Rainbow groaned and facehoofed herself lightly. “You’re going to cheer for me like that? Louder!”

“Yay!” Fluttershy repeated in the same volume.

“Louder!”

“Yay!”

“LOUDER!!!!”

Fluttershy took a deep breath… and still said in the same volume, “Yay!”

Rainbow groaned and fainted backwards.

Fluttershy noticed. “Was I too loud?” she asked.

“Not even remotely close,” Rainbow said. “You didn’t even attempt to be louder!”

“I’m sorry,” Fluttershy said. “I’m not used to raising my voice. What if I do and it upsets or bothers somepony else?”

“You’ll be surrounded by ponies doing that,” Rainbow insisted. “Nopony will care if one more voice is doing it. Besides, you’re bothering somepony right now by not doing it. Me.”

“I am?” Fluttershy asked. “Well, if you’re sure, then I’m going to keep trying.”

“The way you’ve been cheering,” Rainbow said. “I feel you haven’t been trying at all.”

“Well,” Fluttershy said. “Everypony improves at different speeds, don’t they? We all try and we get better, even if we don't always see the signs.”

Rainbow, brash as she was, couldn’t deny this. She sighed before saying, “Look, I’m going up to the clouds to try practicing the stunt. While I’m doing it, actually raise your voice this time. Trust me, there’s literally nopony else for you to bother by yelling. We’re the only two for like a mile.”

“I’ll try,” Fluttershy said. “Good luck, Rainbow!”

Rainbow flew up to the clouds. She didn’t want to say anything about it to Fluttershy, but, inside, she was nervous about being able to pull off her own routine. The fact that Fluttershy still wouldn’t raise her voice didn’t help. You’ve got to be bucking kidding me, Rainbow said internally. She decided to go forward with practicing her routine regardless. This might inspire her, she thought.

She jumped off a cloud as if it were a diving board. She wove in between a line of trees as if they were pillars. There’s phase one of my routine, the cyan pegasus said internally. Though, her yellow friend still wouldn’t raise her voice.

“Amazing~” Fluttershy cheered.

The Critter Whisperer’s low volume further irritated the prismatic mare. “Ugh…” she groaned. “Now, onto phase two.” She began flying circles around three clouds until they started spinning. Fluttershy’s eyes spun with the rotation of the clouds and blinked for a second to concentrate on Rainbow.

“Way to go~” Fluttershy cheered.

Rainbow’s temper was starting to boil at that point. “Ugh~ She’s still not getting it!” Rainbow growled. “Well, if this won’t get her to cheer, nothing will. Phase three… the Sonic Rainboom!”

She began flying loop-de-loops in the air before flying towards the ground with one forehoof extended as a vapor dome started to form. She flew further and further, hoping to break through the vapor dome as it became a mach cone. However, as if it was made of rubber, it sprung forward and propelled Rainbow in the air backwards. Fluttershy merely held a hoof to her mouth in surprise.

Meanwhile, Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie had finished reorganizing the library.

“Thanks for the help, girls,” Twilight said. “Normally, I’d ask Spike to help, but, he hasn’t come back from his weekly session with Princess Luna yet.”

“No problem, Twi,” Applejack smiled. “Glad we could lend a helpin’ hoof!”

At that moment, Spike entered the library. “Guess who’s back,” he said.

“Ooh! Ooh!” Pinkie said cheerfully as she bounced up and down. “It’s you, Spike! You’re the one who’s back!”

“How was therapy?” Twilight asked.

“It went well,” Spike smiled.

Suddenly, Pinkie’s tail began twitching.

“Uh, oh!” Twilight exclaimed, seeing Pinkie’s tail. “Something’s going to fall! Duck!”

They all tried to take cover when they heard Rainbow’s voice getting closer. She crashed through the open window of the Golden Oak Library and right into the center of the library. The impact caused the books to tumble off of their shelves and piled all over the room. Spike and the other mares were buried in the various tomes.

“I’m okay~” Pinkie said, her voice slightly muffled from the open book on her face.

Twilight looked at Rainbow in disdain. “Do you know how long it took us to clean up this place?!”

“No,” Rainbow said. “But, I’m sure it was a while. Sorry, guys.”

Suddenly, Fluttershy entered through the open window.

“Rainbow, you rocked~ Whoo-hoo~!” she cheered, but, she was surprised with the flurry of books scattered all over. “Oh my. I must be more powerful with cheering than I thought.”

“It wasn’t your cheering,” Rainbow said. “It couldn’t possibly be.”

“Oh,” Fluttershy said. “You’re not hurt, are you?”

“Well,” Rainbow said bitterly. “I was catapulted by my own mach cone at 200 miles an hour, crashed face-first into the library, and wound up burying our friends in this mess, all after realizing how little I must really matter to you. Yeah, ‘hurt’ just about sums it up.”

“Oh, Rainbow,” Fluttershy said. “You do matter to me. I’m sorry I don’t show it in the way you think I do.”

“Could’ve fooled me,” Rainbow said. “I tried to be patient, I tried to be calm. Can you tell me what the trouble is?” She then got right in Fluttershy’s face. “Am I losing my mind?! I must be if I asked you to cheer me on. I didn’t ask for much, just one simple little thing. I didn’t ask you to move a mountain, I just wanted you to cheer for me. I stood up for you to those bullies all those years ago and this is how you repay me? By not even trying to cheer me on when I need it?!*”

Fluttershy took in Rainbow’s words and she had a very hurt look on her face. Tears welled in her bluish-green eyes.

“I’M SORRY, RAINBOW~!” Fluttershy sobbed surprisingly loudly. “I JUST WANTED TO BE A GOOD FRIEND~!”

Spike suddenly blew into a whistle, breaking up the argument.

“RAINBOW DASH!” Spike roared. “WHAT’S GOTTEN INTO YOU?!”

Rainbow knew instantly that Spike was genuinely angry if he was already resorting to yelling.

“I-” Rainbow started. “I-I was just trying to help Fluttershy with her cheering, that’s all.”

“Explain,” Spike said, his tone calm, but, his expression still very much angry.

“The Young Flyer’s Competition is coming up in Cloudsdale,” Rainbow said. “And I needed Fluttershy’s cheering to help me get through my routine.” She was about to harshly criticize Fluttershy’s cheering again, but, a glare from Spike made her stop herself. “I wanted her to cheer me on because she’s the only other one of us who could go to Cloudsdale.”

“And you think her not having the right amount of volume makes you think she doesn’t care about you?” Spike hissed. “Well, if she didn’t care, she wouldn’t do this for you at all. She could have done something else, but, instead, she chose to be there for you, even if you aren’t being grateful towards her. Every bit of encouragement matters, even if it’s quiet or barely above a whisper.”

“Well, not to say that you’re wrong,” Rainbow said. “But, I thrive on loud cheers. Especially if they come from close friends or my parents. They push me to perform at my best. If I can’t hear Fluttershy’s cheers over everypony else in the crowd, I feel like my performance will crash and burn.”

“Well,” Pinkie said. “If there were bleachers that lead all the way up to Cloudsdale, you can bet your flank that we’d be cheering you on, Dashie! We’d love to see your routine, especially if the finale involved the super-duper amazing Sonic Rainboom!”

Spike registered that last part and grew curious. “Sonic Rainboom?”

“It’s amazing~” Pinkie explained eagerly. “When a pegasus like Rainbow goes fast enough, Boom! A sonic boom crossed with a rainbow happens! Hence, a Sonic Rainboom~!”

“Rainbow here reckons she pulled it off,” Applejack said.

“I keep telling you, AJ,” Rainbow insisted. “I did pull it off. Over ten years ago. The problem is that I did it by accident and I haven’t been able to figure out how I did it since. I keep trying to recreate it, but, nothing.**”

“Well, I believe in you, Dashie,” Pinkie chirped, hugging Rainbow. “I know you’ll be able to do the best Sonic Rainboom ever!”

“If I can ever figure out how I did it,” Rainbow said. “Too bad none of you can be there. I’ll just have to make due with Equestria’s only whispering cheerleader.”

After the others gave Rainbow encouraging words, the sky blue pegasus flew out of the library window. Once she was out of earshot, Fluttershy confided in the others about Rainbow’s personal worries.

“Rainbow’s been practicing that move 100 times and she hasn’t come close,” she explained. “I’m trying to cheer loud, but, I’m worried about upsetting or bothering somepony.”

“Even though you’ll be surrounded by ponies yelling at the top of their lungs?” Spike pointed out. “That’s kind of the point of being in an audience.”

“You’re right, Spike,” Fluttershy said. “Thank you for standing up for me before. Now, I’ve got to do some serious practicing of my own to do. I have to show that I do support Rainbow and her endeavors.” And with that, the yellow pegasus flew out of the window.

“Well, looks like I’ll have to clean this mess up myself,” Spike said bitterly. “It wasn’t my fault, but, I have to be the one cleaning it up.”

“We’ll help, too, Spike,” Applejack said. “Twilight needed our help cleanin’ here earlier n’ we can do it again.”

“I’m going to start practicing what I preach,” Twilight said. “I’ve been making you clean up my own messes for too long.***”

So, the friends put all of the books away. After they were finished, Rarity remembered Rainbow’s attitude and she motioned to Twilight.

“Alright, go on,” Rarity said. “Go on.”

“What?” Twilight asked.

“Find a spell that allows for non-Pegasus ponies and wingless dragons to fly please,” Rarity said. “Didn’t you see how nervous she was?”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “But, that’s pretty much standard Fluttershy.”

“Not Fluttershy, Spike,” Rarity said. “I meant Rainbow. I’ve put on enough fashion shows to recognize stage fright when I see it. It’s clear that she needs our support just as much as she needs Fluttershy’s.”

“I think I read about such a spell,” Spike said. “I think it was called the Daedalus Wing Spell.****”

“Ooh!” Pinkie squeaked excitedly. She walked over to grab a particular book off of the shelf and opened it to a certain page. “It’s here on page twenty-seven.”

“How did you—” Twilight began before Pinkie interrupted.

“This book landed open on my face after Rainbow crashed in here.” She explained.

Twilight studied the spell. “‘The Daedalus Wing Spell: This spell allows for a non-pegasus pony to fly for three days.’ Oh, my. It looks difficult.”

“How difficult?” Spike asked.

“To do this on one pony, it takes the same amount of effort it took for me to pacify the Ursa Minor,” Twilight explained. “But, who’ll volunteer?”

“I shall volunteer,” Rarity said. “She may still owe me bits in order to repair the hole she caused in my roof, but, she is still my friend and she needs our support.”

“Okay, here we go,” Twilight said.

So, Twilight’s horn illuminated. Magical swirls of gossamer and morning dew surround Rarity as if she was being enveloped in a chrysalis state of a butterfly’s metamorphosis. Twilight began straining from the effort and her horn began to turn a reddish shade of purple. Spike quickly went to go look for an ice pack. Before long, the spell cleared and Twilight was about ready to topple over. Spike placed the ice pack against Twilight’s horn, causing it to hiss as it cooled down.

“I… think it worked,” Twilight said, still slightly dizzy.

“Whatever you do, don’t do that spell again,” Spike advised.

“No worries,” Twilight said as her strength returned. Then, she remembered something Rainbow mentioned earlier. An enchantment to keep things from falling through the clouds. “Spike, we’ve got some spell-searching to do.”

Some time later, Rainbow and Fluttershy made it to Cloudsdale.

“Do your parents know you’re competing?” asked Fluttershy.

“No,” Rainbow said. “I plan to keep it that way. You know how they are, cheering me on over literally everything. How do you compare who’s better or worse at hanging a towel?*****”

“I thought you wanted ponies to cheer for you,” Fluttershy said.

“I do,” Rainbow said. “But, they take it too far. They considered me finishing toilet training an accomplishment.******”

Fluttershy sighed. “Maybe when you were a toddler that makes sense, but… not now.”

Rainbow and Fluttershy were about to walk through the city when suddenly, they were met by three Pegasus stallions. One was a dark grayish brown with a light amberish gray mane. Another was a light gamboge coated stallion with a grayish tangelo mane overlapping his eyes. The third was a Persian bluish gray stallion with a reddish brownish gray mane also overlapping his eyes. Their names were Dumb-Bell, Hoops, and Score respectively. They were wearing white hardhats and matching coats as they had jobs in the Cloudsdale Weather Factory. Rainbow and Fluttershy knew them too well.

“Well, well, well,” Dumb-bell said obnoxiously. “Look who’s here!”

“It’s our old friend, Rainbow Crash!” Hoops said, also in an obnoxious tone.

“Big talk coming from the chumps I out-flew ten years ago,” Rainbow retorted.

“Get kicked out of any flight schools lately?” Dumb-bell snorted, ignoring Rainbow’s retort.

“That depends,” Rainbow said. “Did you three grow a spine since I last saw you?”

“Fuh!” Hoops sorted. “Yeah, we did!”

“So, you stopped picking on ponies who can’t fight back?” Rainbow said snidely.

“Yeah,” Dumb-bell snorted. “We’re focusing on picking on you! If ya don’t like it, why don’t ya fly away on a Sonic Rainboom~? Oh, wait, that’s right. You can’t, because the Sonic Rainboom isn’t real~!”

“Now, wait just a minute!” Fluttershy snapped at the three. “Rainbow is more than capable enough to do a Sonic Rainboom and she will do it, too!”

“That’s a complete load,” Dumb-bell said. “She couldn’t do it ten years ago, she can’t do it now.” Score raised his hoof to comment, but, Dumb-bell, without even turning to face him, said, “Put your hoof down, Score.” Score did as he was told.*******

“If you’re so sure she can’t,” Fluttershy said assertively. “Why don’t you see her routine during the Young Flyer’s Competition this afternoon? She’ll do her Sonic Rainboom and the Wonderbolts will be amazed!”

“What do you say, boys?” Dumb-bell said. “You up for seeing Rainbow Crash crash and burn?”

“Yeah!” Hoops snorted. “Can’t wait to see how she screws up this time.”

The two former ponies laughed obnoxiously as they flew off elsewhere. Score shook his head with annoyance and followed behind them.

“Are you okay, Rainbow?” Fluttershy asked kindly.

“What if Dumb-bell’s right?” Rainbow said.

“Rainbow, where is this coming from?” Fluttershy asked. “Just because you haven’t been able to do the Sonic Rainboom in practice doesn’t mean you won’t be able to perform it during the real thing.”

“Let’s face it, Fluttershy,” Rainbow said. “I can’t thrive on your cheering. I can kiss the prize money goodbye and I’ll never impress the Wonderbolts.”

Fluttershy suddenly noticed something. “Rarity?” she asked.

“Thanks for reminding me of the pony who will be upset with me that I can’t pay her back with this!” Rainbow said, upset. Fluttershy pointed behind Rainbow to show what she was referring to. Her expression changed from one of sorrow to one of surprise. She saw Rarity with butterfly-like wings. “Rarity?! You’re… flying?!”

“I sure am,” Rarity said, sounding slightly woozy, but still comprehensible.

“Oh dear,” Fluttershy said, noticing the situation. “You may have wings, but, you don’t have the heightened lung capacity. I can get you a breathing pack if you need it.”

Rarity shook her head and spoke more normally. “I’m fine, darling,” she said. “Twilight made me these fabulous wings.”

“This is awesome!” Rainbow said excitedly. “Did you come to cheer me on, too?”

“Yes, we did,” Rarity smiled with a wink. At that moment, Twilight, Spike, Applejack, and Pinkie rose up in a purple hot-air balloon.

“This was stored under the library,” Spike said.

“It’s beautiful~” Fluttershy said, clearly amazed. “I never knew Miss Novel had this.”

“Neither did I,” Twilight said. “Until Spike and I came across it one day.”

Pinkie giggled and leaped out of the balloon.

“Wait!” Rainbow shouted.

To her and Fluttershy’s surprise, Pinkie landed safely on the cloud without falling through.

“Oh my,” gasped Fluttershy. “How did you do that? I thought only winged creatures could walk on clouds.”

“Well, after Pinkie found the Daedalus Wing Spell,” said Twilight, “I remembered the cloud walking enchantment Rainbow mentioned a while ago. The Icarus Cloudwalking Spell. It was much easier to cast.”

Spike stepped onto the cloud.

“Whoa,” he cried. “It feels solid, but, soft at the same time. I didn’t think it’d feel that way, being made of water and all.”

“My dad works in the weather factory,” said Fluttershy. “He shows me cloud samples all the time. That is what they feel like.”

“With this spell, you guys can visit my cloudo one day,” Rainbow grinned. “Oh, speaking of visiting, you will have to get a tour of Cloudsdale. Got to take a chance while you can since there’s time before the competition.”

“Sounds great,” Spike said. “Hey, does it feel a bit chilly to anypony else?”

“A little,” Applejack admitted. “But, ah’m alright.”

“Same here,” Pinkie said.

Spike started hugging himself. “I’m starting to feel colder.”

Fluttershy readied a blanket for Spike. “It’s because of the air pressure being thinner,” she said. “Flying creatures like me and Rainbow can handle it, but, you’re cold-blooded.”

“Thank you, Fluttershy,” he said, wrapping the blanket around himself.

“Note to self, get Cloudsdale to make baby-dragon sized warm clothes,” Rainbow said quietly. “Alright, Spike, ladies, follow Fluttershy and me.”

“You can ride on my back if you want, Spike,” Fluttershy offered. “I don’t want you to catch a cold.”

Spike gratefully did so as the ponies walked off. Rarity flew rather clumsily.

“Pardon,” Rarity said with a light blush. “Still getting used to this whole flying aspect.” Spike noticed that her speech was getting a little slurred.

“Uh, Twilight,” he said. “Does Rarity seem a little different to you?”

“Besides her brightly-colored butterfly wings?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah,” Spike said. “She’s acting a little… loopy.”

“That’s the Icarus Effect******** for you,” Rainbow said.

“I think I read about that before,” Twilight said. “From what I read, the Icarus Effect is when a creature flying using artificial wings flies too high and doesn’t get enough oxygen, resulting in a mild delirium.”

“I have the breathing pack available in my first aid kit just in case,” Fluttershy said.

“I hope Rarity will be okay,” winced Spike. “Claws crossed…”

“She should be fine as long as she doesn’t fly too close to the sun,” Rainbow said. “That’s when the Icarus Effect is at its worst.”

“We’ll look after her,” Applejack said. “Now, ya were givin’ us a tour.”

“Right,” Rainbow said. “This way.”

During the tour, Rainbow decided to give her friends a view of the Weather Factory. They were equipped with the same work uniforms that the three stallions were wearing earlier.

“This is where they make the snowflakes,” Rainbow said. “They’re hoofmade and super delicate.”

“They look beautiful up close,” said Twilight.

Rarity was about to fly, but, Rainbow stopped her. “This is a no-wing zone, Rarity,” she said. “Unless you want to ruin winter and cause a drought, I’d rethink trying to fly.”

Rarity couldn’t help but groan at this. Rainbow then led them to a different part of the factory. This one had a waterfall system of a technicolor liquid.

“This is where they make the rainbows,” Rainbow said.

“Wow,” gasped Twilight. “I always assumed they were made from water and sunlight. I guess not.”

“Oh, they are,” Rainbow said. “How do you think these ones look like liquid?”

“Fair point,” Twilight admitted.

Pinkie curiously took a step toward it.

“I… wouldn’t try that if I were you,” Fluttershy cautioned. “When Zephyr and I were foals and dad took us to work on take your foal to work day, he tried eating it and got a spicy mouth.*********”

“I remember that,” Rainbow laughed. “It took him weeks for that mouth sunburn to heal.”

“Ooh, thanks for telling me,” said Pinkie. “I do not need a sunburnt tongue.”

“I’m guessing it was the sunlight in the rainbow that burnt his mouth,**********” Twilight surmised.

“Yep,” Rainbow said. “Some ponies started a petition to stop the production of rainbows. Well, I say that if you’re stupid enough to put something with sunlight in it in your mouth, you deserve what you get.”

Just then, the group looked over to see the three pegasus stallions near Rarity.

“What’s she doing with those idiots?” Rainbow asked.

“Oh, where’d you get those amazing wings?” asked Dumb-bell. “I want a pair!”

“It helps to be friends with a gifted unicorn,” Rarity said, sounding increasingly dazed.

“Rarity~” Rainbow said through her teeth, annoyed that her bullies are giving her unwarranted attention.

“Oh, hey, look, it’s Rainbow Crash again!” Said Dumb-bell.

Hoops laughed. “Yeah! Rainbow…um… Crash!”

“Rarity,” growled Rainbow. “What are you doing with these guys?”

“Oh, they were just admiring my wings, Rainbow Dash,” Rarity explained. “Look at how I swoop around.” She started dizzily flying around.

“Yeah,” said Dumb-bell. “You should forget the Sonic Rainboom and just get yourself some wings like these!”

“Uh, you know she’s under the Icarus Effect, right?” Score said.

“Shut up, Score,” Dumb-bell said. “Icarus Effect or not, she’s flying better than Rainbow Crash.”

“Pathetic,” Spike said aloud.

“What’s that?” Dumb-bell asked. “You saying we’re pathetic?”

“No,” Spike said sarcastically. “I’m saying that you’re not pegasi, you’re overgrown chickens.”

Hoops at that moment was helping himself to some popcorn before registering the insult. “Hey!” he said. “We’re not chickens!” In his proclamation, he dropped his popcorn, which spilled out on the cloud. He gasped. “My popcorn!” He then proceeded to eat the individual pieces the same way a chicken pecks the ground for seeds.*********** Dumb-bell and Score could only facehoof in response.

“They remind me o’ the chickens on mah farm,” chuckled Applejack. “Maybe ah’d better corral ‘em inta the balloon n’ take ‘em home.”

“Wait, how did three non-winged ponies get up here?!” Score exclaimed. Applejack did not reply, but, she charged at the bullies.

“Let’s get out of here!” said Dumb-bell. He grabbed Hoops’ hoof as they and Score shot up into the sky.

“Thanks for standing up to them, Spike,” Fluttershy said as she nuzzled him.

“And trying to corral them into the balloon because you claimed they were lost chickens?” Pinkie giggled. “Good one, AJ.” Applejack just chuckled and winked at her friends.

“No problem,” Spike said. “Hey, you said your dad works around here, Fluttershy?”

“He does,” said Fluttershy. “He’ll be in the cloud-making factory. Come on, everyone.”

The ponies and Spike all headed into the cloud making factory. Fluttershy glanced around and it wasn’t long before she spotted an older stallion who was pale, light grayish malachite green with a light amaranthish gray mane and tail. His cutie mark was three puffy clouds.

“Daddy!” she cried happily.

“Hmm… oh, there’s my precious Critter Whispering girl,” he smiled. “Come for a hug.”

She eagerly rushed toward him and they embraced. However, in Fluttershy’s excitement, she forgot Spike was still on her back and being hugged by the stallion as well.

“Hmm?” The stallion checked his daughter’s back and saw Spike. “Is that… a baby dragon on your back?”

“Oh, yes,” she gasped. “Daddy, this is Spike. He moved to Ponyville right before the Summer Sun Celebration last year.”

“Why, hello there, Spike,” he replied. “My name is Cloud Wisp.************” He then whispered to his daughter, “Can he understand Ponish?”

“And speak it,” Spike said. “Twilight taught me the language from birth. She’s over there with the rest of our friends.”

Cloud Wisp’s eyes widened in surprise as he glanced over. “Unicorns and earth ponies in Cloudsdale?”

“You can thank the Icarus Cloudwalking Spell and the Daedalus Wing Spell,” Twilight said.

“Daedalus and Icarus?” Cloud Wisp said. “As in Daedalus, the unicorn who magically made functioning artificial wings, and Icarus, his son who flew too close to the actual sun?”

Twilight nodded.

“You are certainly a gifted unicorn, young one,” said Cloud Wisp.

“Does everypony in Cloudsdale know about Daedalus and Icarus?” Spike asked.

“Around here, that story’s used as a cautionary tale,” Cloud Wisp explained.

Spike then realized something. “Wait, doesn’t me being a dragon bother you?”

“Speaking personally, no,” Cloud Wisp said honestly. “If my daughter can carry you on her back without any sign of fear, that’s all I need to know you’re not dangerous.”

“Thank you, Mr. Cloud Wisp,” Spike said warmly.

“I’m a little surprised, though,” admitted Cloud Wisp. “Considering my daughter’s afraid of dragons.”

“I’m actually trying to get over that,” Fluttershy admitted before nuzzling Spike. “For his sake.”

“You’ve certainly come a long way, Fluttershy,” Cloud Wisp said with modest pride. It was at that point Fluttershy remembered the others.

“Oh, daddy, that purple unicorn is Twilight, the pink earth pony is Pinkie Pie, the orange earth pony is Applejack, and the white unicorn is Rarity. And you know Rainbow Dash already,” Fluttershy said.

“Ah, hello everypony,” he greeted. “Ah, Rainbow, how are you feeling about today?”

“A bit better knowing my friends came to cheer me on,” Rainbow said.

“That’s good to hear,” Cloud Wisp smiled. “You have mine and Posey’s************* support all the way, even if we’re busy working.” He added, thinking of Fluttershy’s mother.

“Hey, where’d Rarity go,” Spike asked when he noticed Rarity wasn’t there.

“She was here a minute ago,” said Applejack.

They all looked to see Rarity’s wings being admired by the other cloud makers.

“They are beautiful,” said one of the younger workers.

“You’re too kind,” Rarity said drunkenly.

Twilight, Spike, and Applejack were less than thrilled. “We’re supposed to be helping Rainbow relax,” Spike said. “Not show off like Trixie.”

“Yeah,” Twilight said a bit sternly. “We may have to take you to the medical ward here so you can recuperate.”

“Oh, I’m doing just fine, darlings,” Rarity said as she flew higher. She eclipsed the sun, which shone through her wings.

“Whoa!” cried Pinkie. “What is that?!”

“Because Rarity’s wings are transparent,” Twilight explained. “They’re creating a stained glass effect from the beams of sunlight. Ergo, pretty cascading beams of color.”

“I’m getting kind of worried,” Spike said. “Rarity’s Icarus Effect is getting worse.”

“Yeah!” Rainbow exclaimed. “We have to take her to the medical ward. Otherwise, she might get the idea to compete in the Young Flyer’s Competition, too!”

“Now, there’s an idea,” Rainbowshine said.

“Yeah,” said an old Pegasus mare who looked like a white version of Granny Smith. “I could watch those pretty wings all day.”

“Hmm,” Rarity said woozily, thinking about the idea. “There isn’t anypony who uses their wings like mine. Perhaps I should compete!”

“Foggy Fleece**************,” Rainbow said to the white old mare. “Can’t you see she’s under the Icarus Effect?”

“It’s fine as long as she doesn’t get any closer to the sun than this,” the elderly mare brushed off.

Rainbow became more worried. “What am I going to do? I’ll never win the competition now!”

Later, the contestants were getting ready. A turquoise Pegasus mare named Sprinkle Medley knocked on a dressing room door to see if there was an accessory she needed inside. But, Rarity, from inside, opened the door.

“I’ll be a little COOKIES!!!” Rarity said. This left Sprinkle with a confused look on her face. Rarity shut the door.

In the bleachers of the Cloudeseum, Twilight, Fulttershy, Applejack, Pinkie, and Spike were seated. Pinkie was waving around a foam finger she was wearing on her left forehoof and Spike was being held against Twilight’s warm body. Many pegasi all stared in wonderment of non-winged creatures in Cloudsdale.

“Ah wonder when Rarity n’ Rainbow’ll be on,” said Applejack.

“The numbers are based on order of admission,” said Fluttershy. “Rarity did sign up last minute with Rainbow signing up a week in advance, so, she’ll probably be among the first ones with Rarity being last.”

At that moment, the Young Flyer’s Competition began. An announcer pegasus stallion named Madden started the show.

“Fillies and gentlecolts!” Madden spoke. “Please rise and join me in welcoming our beloved Princess Celestia!”

Princess Celestia flew into view, causing the audience to cheer with amazement and appreciation. The alicorn waved to the audience members gratefully.

“Where’s Princess Luna?” Twilight asked.

“Oh, she’s not quite ready for public appearances yet,” Spike said. “She’s still learning about modern society. After this session, she finally figured out how to use soap.”

The others raised confused eyebrows.

“She said that soap didn’t exist before she was banished,” Spike said.

“Best not tell Rarity that,” Fluttershy noted.

“Please welcome our celebrity judges for the Best Young Flyer Competition: the Wonderbolts!” Madden went on.

Six pegasi all swooped in, leaving blue streaks in their wake.

Spike made an impressed whistle at the display. “No wonder Rainbow wants to join them,” he said.

“Did you just whistle, Spike?!” Pinkie asked excitedly.

Spike was incredulous. “You’ve seen me send and receive letters through my fire breath,” he said. “Are you really that surprised I can whistle?” Pinkie gave a sheepish expression.

“And now, let’s find out who will take the prize as this year’s best young flyer!”

Back with the contestants, a mare named Lucy Packard was cueing them. “Okay, contestant number one, you’re up!”

Rainbow looked at her number and realized she’d be up next after one. Swiftly, she switched numbers with another contestant. The one she swapped with was a stallion with a brilliant gamboge coat, a mane and tail in two tones of moderate sapphire blue, vivid cornflower blue eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting a two-toned blue shield behind a yellow lightning bolt.

“Okay, contestant number two, let’s go,” Lucy Packard said. “Come on, come on. We ain’t got all day!”

“Uh, she means you,” Rainbow said quickly. The stallion blinked in surprise.

“Whoa! I can’t be late!” The stallion raced off.

“And here comes contestant number 2!” Madden announced. The stallion entered the arena, which surprised Madden. “Flash Sentry? Hmm. Must’ve been a mixup. Ah well, the crowd doesn’t seem to mind.”

“Who… who is that?” Twilight’s eyes widened. “I don’t recall seeing him before.”

“Flash Sentry was a colt who was at Summer Flight Camp,” Fluttershy replied. “He said his dream is to join the Royal Guard.”

“Oh, yeah,” Spike said. “Shining Armor told me about how he enrolled at the academy after last year’s Summer Sun Celebration. Said he’s one of the best cadets this year.”

“Ah thought fer sure Rainbow would be on about now,” Applejack said. “She must be more nervous ‘n we thought.”

“Rarity’s showboating didn’t help at all,” Spike said.

Some time later, after nearly all of the contestants performed, it was soon time for Rainbow and Rarity to perform their routines. By then, Rainbow had made herself number 15. Lucy walked up to Rainbow, who was trembling with nervousness.

“Number 15, let’s go!” Lucy said impatiently.

Suddenly, Rarity stepped out of her dressing room. “Rarity is A CHOCOLATE MARSHMALLOW!!!”

“Look, ladies,” Lucy said uncaringly. “There’s only time for one more performance, so ya just have to perform together.”

“Well, MOO-COW,” said Rarity. “Shall we PAINT A FENCE?!?”

Rainbow was confused, but, still worried. There was no turning back now. She just had to go out there and put on a show. “Maybe you should fly down a bit,” Rainbow suggested.

“Flibbertigibbet, Dash,” Rarity rambled. “I’m as juxtaposed as the next hayburger.”

Rainbow groaned and flew out to the center of the Cloudeseum.

“And here’s contestant number 15,” Madden said. “And apparently, a delirious number 16.”

Rainbow and Rarity’s friends cheered for them, but, they were still presently worried about Rarity’s delirium. The white unicorn spouting gibberish did nothing to alleviate their worries.

“Good lunch, Rainbow,” Rarity said in slurred speech while her eyes grew and shrank in an alternating pattern. “Just do your vest. I did change the murals a bit.”

“You’re losing it, Rarity,” Rainbow said.

“Neigh way~!” Rarity said with a goofy chuckle. “Now, lezz go~!”

Rainbow looked around and swallowed a lump in her throat. “Guess we’re really doing this. Okay, Dash. Concentrate. This is what I’ve been training for.” She saw clouds organized like the trees earlier. She weaved in between each one, only bumping into the last one. “Oof!”

Unfortunately for her, the bullies were watching. “Nice one, Rainbow Crash!” jeered Dumb-bell.

Rainbow took a deep inhale and focused upwards on a trio of clouds. “Focus, Rainbow. Phase two.” She began flying circles around the clouds just as before. These clouds began to spin.

“Look,” Fluttershy said happily. “Phase two is working!” However, Fluttershy spoke too soon as a stray cloud hit Rainbow in the face.

“Oof!” Rainbow interjected.

Meanwhile, Rarity was finishing up a sloppy dance flight. While most of the ponies in the audience were enamored with her wings, her friends looked on with growing concern.

“This isn’t going well for Rarity,” Pinkie said.

“I’ll say,” Spike said. “If she weren’t under the Icarus Effect, she’d never dance so sloppily.”

At that moment, Rarity had an idea, a half baked idea at that. “Rarity fly to big yellow ball and spread wingies,” she jabbered. “They talk it long time.”

Rarity then began to fly high above the Cloudeseum. Rainbow was about ready for her next phase.

“Looks like this is my last chance to turn things around,” Rainbow said to herself nervously. “Phase three, the Sonic… (gulp) Rainboom.” She looked back at her own flapping wings. “Wings, don't fail me now.”

She and Rarity flew higher with the pegasus having her eyes closed. Rarity got as close as she could to the sun and began sweating.

“Look!” Rarity shouted, panting a bit. “I, Rarity!”

As before, Rarity’s wings made a stained glass effect. Unfortunately, the heat caused the gossamer to start burning while the morning dew evaporated. In the blink of an eye, Rarity’s wings were no more.

“Uh oh…” trailed Rarity. “Wingies go bye-bye.”

Gravity took hold of Rarity and she began to fall from a tremendous height. Rarity screamed with terror with her rapid descent. Her scream alerted three of the Wonderbolts, who dove into action. They zoomed down to rescue Rarity, but, with Rarity screaming with terror, her legs were all flailing. She unintentionally knocked out each of the three with her legs.

The other three Wonderbolts leapt into action and at that moment, Rainbow Dash caught sight of what was literally going down.

“Hold on, Rarity!” She cried. “I’m coming!”

The rainbow-maned pegasus shot down faster and faster, to the point of overtaking the other Wonderbolts. She held both her front hooves in front of her as a vapor dome started to form before her.

“I can’t look!” cried Spike as he buried his face in Twilight’s chest fur.

Rainbow kept going as the vapor dome became a technicolor mach cone. Suddenly, a loud boom was heard and a streak of color streamed through the air. The boom made Spike look and become absolutely bewildered.

“A SONIC RAINBOOM!” a loud voice cheered. “She did it! She did it! Whoo!”

Everypony glanced up in surprise. That voice had come from none other than…

“Fluttershy!” a pegasus exclaimed as she saw Fluttershy cheering at the top of her lungs while her friends simply stared in disbelief. “I wouldn’t have expected that from you.”

“You sounded more like me than I do,” Pinkie remarked after coming to her senses briefly. “I’ll go back to staring in disbelief now.”

Fluttershy was too giddy and excited to care.

Rainbow managed to catch Rarity and the three unconscious Wonderbolts at the same time before they hit the ground. Rarity allowed oxygen to fill her lungs again. She was truly amazed with Rainbow’s Sonic Rainboom and her rescue. As she went back to Cloudsdale, Rainbow finally realized what happened. “So, that’s how I did it!”

Rainbow managed to safely slow down a bit, allowing for the rainbow streak to wear off. Various other pegasi were able to help Rarity and the unconscious Wonderbolts. Rainbow set her hooves on the cloud surface. She turned her attention to the cheering crowd and was especially amazed with the loud cheering coming from Fluttershy. “Fluttershy actually cheering right?!”

“She was amazed, alright,” Twilight commented.

“You were phenomenal,” Fluttershy flew over to her friend and hugged her. Rainbow just smiled back and reciprocated the hug.

“Did that Sonic Rainboom feel familiar to anypony else?**************” Pinkie asked.

“Now that ya mention it,” Applejack said. “It did feel familiar. Ah can’t explain why, though.”

“That sounded like the explosion I heard seconds before Spike hatched,” Twilight said.

Fluttershy was about to say her piece, but, then she caught sight of Rarity. “Are you okay?”

“Well, I’m having a bit of a migraine and shortness of breath,” Rarity admitted.

“Hold still a moment,” said Twilight. She quickly casted the cloud walking spell on the white unicorn.

Rarity began breathing like normal again and was gently set on the clouds. “I can breathe! Thank you, Twilight,” she glanced over at Rainbow. “And you, Rainbow… thank you for saving me. Especially after I was so rude… at least I think I was. Everything between the weather factory and my plummet is a blank, honestly.”

“Well, I kind of need you alive to pay you those bits I owe,” Rainbow said. “Besides, I would never leave somepony hanging, especially one of my best friends.”

“What was that about bits?” Spike asked.

“I didn’t tell you?” Rainbow asked. “The grand prize is not only a day with the Wonderbolts, but, also 20,000 gold bits. I was participating so I could pay Rarity back tenfold.***************”

Rarity began to get tears in her eyes. “Oh, Rainbow, you didn’t need to use your prize money for that, and that’s assuming you do win.”

Rainbow sighed. “When you signed up, it felt like I trained for nothing.”

“Wait,” Rarity said. “I signed up?”

“Wow,” Twilight said. “The Icarus Effect really did a number on you, Rarity.”

“The what?” Rarity asked.

It took a lot of explaining, but, eventually, Rarity got the message and she was very embarrassed by her actions. Even more so when she became aware of the garish ensemble she was wearing.

“I am so sorry, Rainbow Dash,” sighed Rarity. “Is it possible to drop out of running if I… uh… performed, already?”

“Considering we were the last act,” Rainbow said. “It’s kind of a moot point.”

“Still, if I can–” Rarity started before Rainbow cut her off.

“Rarity,” Rainbow said. “You don’t owe me anything. I’m the one who owes you.”

The two friends hugged it out.

“The Wonderbolts really will be amazed to meet you,” Rarity said with a kind smile.

“And this year’s winner,” Madden’s voice echoed. “Rainbow Dash!”

The audience cheered happily. Rainbow was surprised, but, still pleased to hear the results. “I won?!”

“You certainly did,” said a familiar voice. It was Princess Celestia. “You have shown incredible bravery, you flew into action when a friend was in danger, and that Sonic Rainboom is one of the most spectacular things I’ve ever seen. It’s as spectacular now as it was all those years ago. For this, you’ve more than earned the victory.”

The three Wonderbolts Rainbow saved came to and were briefed by the other three. They then walked over to meet their hero. Rainbow gasped with amazement. She could not keep her composure even if she tried.

“Ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh!” Rainbow said with incredible speed.

“Looks like after ten years,” said the mare with a vivid orange mane and tail with amber highlights resembling fire. “We found the filly who made the impossible happen.”

“Y-you were looking for me?!” Rainbow gasped with giddiness.

“My mom was,” she said. “She was the Wonderbolts sergeant before me. Name’s–”

“I know who you are,” Rainbow said. “You’re Spitfire.”

The mare, whose name was Spitfire, chuckled good-naturedly. “Sounds like you know a lot about us. Anyway, we wanted to meet up with you and say thanks for rescuing us.”

“The Wonderbolts are thanking me?!” Rainbow said, unable to stop her fanfillying****************. “I can’t believe it! I collected Wonderbolts trading cards as a filly and was so stoked to finally meet you at the Grand Galloping Gala!”

“Uh, sarge,” whispered a stallion with a dark grayish-blue mane and tail to Spitfire. “Should we tell her–”

“Let the fan dream, Soarin’,” Spitfire said.

“So,” Princess Celestia said to Twilight and her friends. “Did you learn anything from this venture?”

“I think Rarity’s the one who learned something today,” Spike said. “Since you’re here, I assume an oral report will do?”

“Yes indeed,” Princess Celestia said.

“I learned that it’s important to have a level head,” Rarity said. “And that it’s important to be there for your friends when they need it.” She then rubbed her left temple with her hoof. “I also learned that the Icarus Effect is NOT a pleasant experience.”

“Count your blessings that you didn’t meet the final fate of Icarus himself,” the princess said.

“Oh, I certainly am,” Rarity said. “Dare I ask what that fate was?”

“He fell into the sea and drowned,” the princess said. Hearing that statement made Rarity shudder uncomfortably. She then looked down to see the ground beneath the clouds.

“I might well have been far worse off if not for Rainbow,” Rarity said. “I’m almost afraid to ask, but, did you know Icarus?”

“And his father,” the princess nodded. “Daedalus was a brilliant unicorn stallion. He named the Icarus Cloudwalking Spell, a spell of his own invention, in tribute to his dearly departed son.”

The friends and princess took a moment of silence to pay respect for Daedalus and Icarus. After that, Princess Celestia looked at Twilight’s usually earth-bound friends. “I see you used that spell on your friends.”

“Yep,” Twilight said. “Including Spike.”

“Oh, you needn’t have bothered with Spike,” the princess said.

Twilight was confused. “Why not?”

“Because,” the princess explained. “Creatures that either have the ability to fly naturally or are destined to gain such an ability are immune to it. Spike falls into the latter category.”

“Wait,” Spike said. “You mean I’ll be able to fly on my own?!”

“Indeed you are, Spike,” the princess said. “Some dragons are born without wings, but, gain them later in life. Somewhat similar to a caterpillar gaining wings upon becoming a butterfly.*****************”

“When will my wings grow in?” Spike asked.

“All in due time, young drake,” the princess said, gently rubbing the top of Spike’s head. “All in due time.”

Afterwards, Dumb-bell, Hoops, and Score walked up to Rainbow. From the looks on their faces, they were much more humble than before. Though, Rainbow wasn’t any happier.

“What do you three want?” she asked bluntly.

“Listen, Rainbow Crash-” Dumb-bell began before Hoops elbowed him in the chest.

“Dash!” he grunted.

“Uh, Rainbow Dash,” Dumb-bell corrected himself. “We came over to apologize to you for giving you such a hard time before. You don’t have to forgive us, but, we wanted you to know that’s how we feel.”

“Don’t think I didn’t see what you did,” Rainbow said. “You purposely fed into Rarity’s delirious ego as a sick joke.”

“For the record,” Score said. “I was against that from the start.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow said. “But, you didn’t do anything to stop them and that’s just as bad. You can’t undo years of bullying with a single apology.”

“Yeah, we understand,” Dumb-bell said. “Well, we’ll do whatever it takes to make things right, especially since we were proven wrong about you.”

“That Sonic Rainboom was awesome!” Hoops said with an amazed rev.

“Don’t expect me to teach it,” Rainbow said firmly. “Especially not to you.”

“Fair enough,” Dumb-bell said. “It probably wouldn’t work the same with our mane colors anyway. And besides, you did it while helping your friend.”

“And don’t even think about joking about her being the Icarus who lived,” Rainbow said.

“Believe us,” Hoops said. “After you proved us wrong, we’re never going to tease or pick on anypony ever again, especially not you or Fluttershy.”

“You better get going though, Dash,” Dumb-bell said. “You do have a day to spend with the Wonderbolts after all.”

On that, Rainbow could agree. She flew over and met with the Wonderbolts and that day, they spent a wonderful time together.

End of chapter.

Author's Notes:

Here's the next chapter.

*I came up with this idea to explain why Rainbow was so hard on Fluttershy. She feels that Fluttershy doesn't appreciate standing up for her all those years ago enough to try cheering properly. She's not exactly wrong.

**FORESHADOWING!!!

***This was done to show that Twilight actually learned her lesson about the way she's been raising Spike.

****Bit of a mythology gag.

*****MORE FORESHADOWING!!!

******Let's face it, Rainbow's parents totally would.

*******Phineas and Ferb reference.

********Another mythology gag.

*********Backstory courtesy of Rach.

**********Explanation for spicy rainbows.

***********Spongebob reference FTW.

************Name courtesy of Rach.

*************Name also courtesy of Rach.

**************Actual name. Proof.

**************EVEN MORE FORESHADOWING!!!

***************A little idea for why Rainbow wanted to compete without making it seem like it's about her ego.

****************The pony version of fangirling.

*****************Man, this chapter's rich with FORESHADOWING!!!

If you liked this chapter, feel free to contact me via private messages if you'd like to help make future chapters.

Chapter 17: Stare Master (S1:E17)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 17: Stare Master

It had been three days since the Young Flyer’s Competition. In that time, Rainbow paid Rarity for the repairs to her roof and Rarity received an order that she was frantically working on. At that time as well, her young sister, Sweetie Belle, was over. She was waiting for her friends to come over.

"Ooh, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo, where are you?" she wondered.

“Where did I put that?” Rarity panted as she looked for supplies. “Ooh, I thought I already-” She accidentally knocks over some things causing them to noisily clatter. “Oh, I can’t forget to- oh, how am I going to get this done?!”

“Are you sure I can’t help?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I’m sure,” Rarity said frantically.

“Then, what’s the point in letting me in?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“It’s so you aren’t unsupervised,” Rarity said. “You are waiting here for your friends to arrive, but, you’re still my sister and I can’t leave you all alone.”

Sweetie Belle became a little disgruntled. “Is this because of that one time I tried making a doll out of your fabrics?*”

“And the time you tried to get a Cutie Mark in tie-dying**,” Rarity said, still focused on her project. “Face it, if you were left to your own devices, you’d just leave a mess.”

Sweetie Belle sighed and went back to staring out the window. She waited impatiently for her friends. At that moment, Spike entered the room. “I got that ribbon you asked for, Rarity,” he said.

“Ah, thank you, Spike,” Rarity smiled. “Place it on my desk please and I’ll take care of it. There should be some emerald shards waiting for you.”

Spike licked his lips eagerly. Sweetie Belle wasn’t pleased. “You let him help!” she said. “What about me?!”

“This was a task I had him do for me earlier today,” Rarity said as she was working. “Now, I don’t need any extra assistance.”

“I could try keeping Sweetie Belle entertained until her friends get here,” Spike offered. “At least she’ll be out of your hair.”

“Thank you, Spike,” Rarity smiled.

“Come on, Sweetie Belle,” Spike said.

Sweetie Belle groaned and went with Spike. “It’s just not fair,” the filly complained.

“It’s okay, Sweetie Belle,” Spike said kindly. “I know it can seem like you don’t have a place, but, you do have things to offer. You just need the right moment. That’s how it was for me anyway.” He gently stroked her mane.

Sweetie Belle did feel a bit better after that. “Thanks, Spike,” she said. “You’re pretty nice for a dragon.”

“What’s that supposed to mean,” Spike said, giving Sweetie Belle a little bit of a stink-eye. “Are you distrusting of me because I'm a dragon?”

Sweetie Belle quickly realized what she said and tried to correct herself. “I meant that you’re a very nice dragon,” she said. “I didn’t hear a lot of stories about good dragons.”

“That’s because they’re just stories,” Spike said. “Not a lot of ponies got to know about real dragons, so, the authors play with their imaginations when writing about them.” He muttered grumpily, “And so many ponies took those stories at face value.”

Sweetie Belle heard this and she comforted Spike. “I’m glad to have met you, though.” She nuzzled his left cheek. “I’ve seen Rarity, Twilight, and Fluttershy rub your left cheek a lot. Rarity said you like it. Am I doing it right?”

“Yeah,” Spike said with a wrinkly smile. They suddenly heard a deep gurgling noise.

“What was that?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“My stomach,” Spike said in embarrassment. “I haven’t eaten the emerald shards yet.”

“You eat gems?” Sweetie asked with fascination. “That’s amazing!”

Spike felt rather incredulous. “Me and Twilight have been living here for months,” he said. “How do you not know by now?”

“I typically live with my mom and dad in a different part of Ponyville,” Sweetie Belle said. “I didn’t visit Rarity’s house long enough to learn about that until now. Plus, this is our first time having an actual heart-to-heart conversation. Not counting Diamond Tiara’s cute-cenera.”

“Guess that’s fair,” Spike shrugged as he began to eat his pieces of emerald. He noticed Sweetie Belle looking at his stomach with curiosity. “Uh, can I help you with something?”

“You must have a pretty strong stomach to digest gems, which are basically shiny rocks,” Sweetie Belle observed.

“It’s really about how much I chew the gems,” Spike explained. “I once swallowed a gem whole, big mistake. It gave me a stomachache.”

Sweetie Belle winced a little. “My tummy hurts just thinking about it.” She shifted to a more pleasant topic. “Your teeth must be pretty strong to bite through gems.”

“Considerably,” Spike said. “Although, I’m not going to risk biting through diamonds again since they’re much tougher. I broke my teeth trying.”

“Ouch!” Sweetie Belle winced. “Sorry about that.”

“It’s okay,” Spike said. “Princess Celestia fixed them up.”

“That’s good,” Sweetie Belle smiled. “What do gems taste like?”

“The flavor is really based on the gem and it’s a lot like rock candy to me,” Spike explained. “Here are just a few examples. Rubies taste like cherry. Sapphires taste like blue raspberry. Emeralds, my personal favorite, taste like green apple. Citrines taste like lemon. Topaz, regardless of the color, tastes like orange. Peridots taste like lime. Amethyst tastes like grape. Quartz tastes like vanilla. And onyx tastes like black licorice.”

“Are there gems that taste like chocolate?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Andalusite,” Spike said.

“Neat,” Sweetie Belle said, fascinated. “I heard in some stories that a dragon’s underbelly is their weak spot.”

“That’s actually a lucky guess,” Spike said. “I never actually experienced a hard enough hit to my stomach, though, I do know it’s sensitive.”

“I see,” Sweetie Belle said.

They suddenly heard the doorbell ring. Sweetie Belle gasped excitedly.

“Ooh!” Sweetie Belle squeaked. “That must be the girls!”

“I’ll get it,” Spike said.

Spike answered the door. But, it wasn’t Sweetie Belle’s friends. It was Fluttershy, who had a cat carrier on her back.

“Oh, hello, Spike,” Fluttershy said. “Is Rarity home?”

“She is,” Spike said. “She’s working on a big order for a client, but, I’ll see if she’s available to say hello.”

“I was actually bringing Opal back from her grooming,” the pegasus explained.

“Ah, that’s good,” Spike said. “I’ll make sure to let Rarity know. Wait here please.”

“That won’t be necessary,” Rarity’s voice said. “I heard everything.”

“Hello, Rarity,” Fluttershy said. “I hope I haven’t disturbed you.”

“I’ll take you interrupting my work over Sweetie Belle making a mess of things,” Rarity said.

“Hey~!” Sweetie Belle said indignantly.

“You know, Rarity,” Spike said. “Maybe if you taught her how to do certain things properly, she wouldn’t make as many messes.”

“Perhaps,” Rarity said, considering the idea. “I’ll see if I can sort out a schedule in between my work and relaxing. Would you like that, Sweetie?”

“Were you talking to me or Spike?” Sweetie Belle asked. “I heard you call Spike that on a few occasions.”

“I mean you, Sweetie Belle,” Rarity said. “Spike already has his own lessons with his own tutor.”

“You know something?” Sweetie Belle said. “I’ve never seen Spike go to school on the weekdays.”

“That’s because I’m not enrolled,” Spike said. “I can’t get into a pony school because I’m not a pony.” He muttered bitterly, “The only way I can enroll is in my dreams.”

Sweetie Belle heard this and comforted Spike. “Even if you aren’t in school, you’re one of the smartest folks I know in Ponyville.”

“Besides,” Rarity added. “You and Twilight are from Canterlot, a predominantly unicorn city. Ponyville was founded by earth ponies. Naturally, Canterlot’s academic standards are much higher than Ponyville’s and Twilight’s been teaching you everything you know. By Ponyville’s academic standards, you simply don’t need to enroll. You’d be too smart for the curriculum to keep up with.”

And with that, Rarity gently rubbed Spike’s left cheek and he felt much better.

“If it makes you feel any better,” Rarity continued. “The unicorn students at the Ponyville Schoolhouse tend to be a bit ahead of the curriculum, too. Well, except for Snips and Snails.”

Sweetie Belle couldn’t help but giggle at Rarity’s tidbit. She knew Snips and Snails from school and knew she was right. Their discussion was interrupted by Opalescence’s angered hissing inside the carrier.

“Oh, right,” Rarity said as she levitated the carrier down. “Opal didn’t give you any trouble, did she, Fluttershy?”

“None whatsoever,” Fluttershy honestly answered.

“You are the Critter Whisperer after all,” Rarity said. “Whenever I try to get close to her for an appointment, she would hiss and claw at me. Gasp! You didn’t use…” She looked to the left and right of her before she whispered. “The Stare on her, did you?”

“You know how Fluttershy feels about using the Stare and what it does to her eyes, Rarity,” Spike calmly scolded.

“She knows, Spike,” Fluttershy said warmly. “It was only an honest question, that’s all. But, no, I didn’t need to use it this time.” She gently stroked Opal, who purred happily. “As a Critter Whisperer, I’m just naturally good with animals.”

“Wait,” Spike said. “Something just occurred to me.”

“What’s that?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Rarity said that she can’t get near Opal without getting clawed at,” Spike said. “But, when she was making her Gala dress, she was able to get near Opal just fine.”

“Because I wasn’t trying to get her to a grooming or veterinarian appointment,” Rarity clarified. “Any other time, she’s very tame.”

“Oh,” Spike said. “That makes sense.” Opal then jumped onto Spike’s back. Sweetie Belle and Fluttershy yelped at the sight of this. To their surprise, Opal began playfully pawing at the spines running down Spike’s back.

“I see you discovered Spike’s incredible scale strength,” Rarity said. “I found out about this in a similar manner.”

“What do you mean?” Fluttershy asked.

“When Spike was helping me at one point,” Rarity explained. “He and I were talking and Opal latched her claws into Spike’s back. I was so worried because I thought she hurt Spike, but, as it turned out, he hadn’t felt it.”

Fluttershy gasped and quickly inspected Spike. Opal didn’t have her claws out, but, the pegasus found the incisions in the scales that Opal got her claws in once.

“I’m seriously okay, Fluttershy,” Spike said comfortingly. “Her claws are sharp, but, they don’t sink into my scales far enough. She ended up getting them stuck before hurting me.”

“All the same,” Fluttershy said. “I don’t like the idea of another creature attempting to hurt you.”

“I appreciate that, Fluttershy,” Spike said. The pegasus hugged him close.

Just then, the front door knocked again. “Were you expecting somepony, Rarity?” Spike asked.

Spike opened the door and Apple Bloom and Scootaloo scampered excitedly inside. In their excited state, they accidentally tackled Spike. Sweetie Belle excitedly greeted her friends.

“You made it!” she squealed.

Fluttershy comforted Spike and dressed his wounds, if any. After inspection, she didn’t find any.

“What do ya think, Crusaders?” Apple Bloom asked excitedly. “Is this goin’ ta be the best Cutie Mark Crusader sleepover ever er what?!”

“What is the meaning of this?!” Rarity demanded.

“This is why you have me over, remember?” Sweetie Belle said. “You agreed to watch my friends and myself so that we can have our sleepover.”

“I don’t remember consenting to that,” Rarity said.

“You were focusing on your work,” Spike said. “You must’ve agreed without realizing it.”

“That’s why I was in your workroom waiting for my friends to come over,” Sweetie Belle said.

“What’s wrong with me?” Rarity asked. “With my order to fill, I don’t have the time to foalsit the three of you.”

Fluttershy saw the predicament before her. With her element of Kindness, Fluttershy made a decision.

“Rarity,” Fluttershy said. “You do have a lot on your plate. Since getting Opal to her pet appointment and back was the only thing I needed to do today, my schedule is open. So, do you think I can look after the fillies tonight?”

“Oh, I couldn’t ask you to do that,” Rarity said.

“Are you sure?” Fluttershy asked. “Because it’s really no trouble for me. I used to look after my brother when my parents were busy.”

“You have a brother?” Spike asked.

“Zephyr Breeze,” Fluttershy said. “I mentioned him back in Cloudsdale.”

“Oh, right,” Spike said. “Sorry, it’s because I haven't met him yet.” He then remembered something. “Wait, was he the one stupid enough to taste the rainbow?”

“Mm-hmm,” Fluttershy nodded.

“Wow,” Spike said. “Sounds like he was a real pain in the–”

“SPIKE!” Rarity scolded.

“What?” Spike asked. “I was going to say ‘neck.’”

“Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “What did you think he was going to say? Ass?”

“Scootaloo!” Rarity scolded. “Where did you hear such language?”

“From Rainbow Dash,” Scootaloo said.

“Oh…” Rarity said in realization. “That would explain it.”

“Anyway,” Fluttershy said, blushing from the crass language. “I’m sure I can look after three fillies. If I can look after all sorts of animals, then, certainly I can handle them.”

“Cutie Mark Crusaders,” Apple Bloom said. “Huddle.”

The three fillies huddle together for a private chit-chat. Afterwards, they turned their attention to Spike. “Spike,” Sweetie Belle said. “Can you come over here?”

Spike looked confused, but, he obliged and got closer to them. Sweetie Belle then gave him a red cape with a blue shield patch depicting a yellow pony silhouette.

“What’s this?” he asked.

“A cape I designed,” Sweetie Belle explained. “I used Rarity’s notes on your measurements to make this one for you.”

“Wow, thank you,” Spike said. “That was very nice of you.” He then noticed the patch. “What’s with the patch?”

“It stands for our group,” Sweetie Belle said. “The Cutie Mark Crusaders!”

“We’re making you an honorary member,” Scootaloo said.

“Me, an honorary Cutie Mark Crusader?” Spike asked with amazement in his voice.

“We’ve heard that ya didn’t get ta be included much growin’ up,” Apple Bloom said. “We figgered bein’ included by ponies ‘round yer age would be a good start.”

“I’m ten pony years old,” Spike said.

“Ah had mah ninth birthday last Friday,” Apple Bloom said.

“My ninth birthday was two days ago,” Scootaloo said.

“My eighth birthday is next week,” Sweetie Belle said.

“So,” Apple Bloom said. “Startin’ today, Spike, yer an honorary Cutie Mark Crusader!”

“Welcome aboard,” Scootaloo said, giving him a noogie.

Spike laughed happily. In his head though, he thought, I just don’t have the heart to tell them that I can’t get a Cutie Mark.

“That’s very sweet girls,” Rarity said. “But, Spike can’t exactly…”

“We know he can’t get one himself,” Sweetie Belle said. “But, we want to include him anyway. Even if it’s just honorary.”

“Thanks, guys,” Spike said.

“This is actually perfect,” Fluttershy said. “Twilight asked me to look after you while she’s at Canterlot for the night, Spike.”

“Thanks, Fluttershy,” Spike smiled. “So, Rarity, did you put some thought into Fluttershy looking after your sister and her friends?”

“Well,” Rarity said. “Alright. It would make filling the order easier.” She then got a look at the inside of Spike’s cape and noticed the golden silk. “Sweetie Belle, what did you use to make these capes?”

“Well, I found this golden silk laying around in your room,” Sweetie Belle said. “You weren’t using it.”

“I needed that silk for my order!” Rarity scolded.

“Something tells me you were so busy with this order that you didn’t tell her that, either,” Spike said.

Rarity facehoofed, annoyed with her lack of attention. She then took a deep breath. “Very well, Fluttershy,” she said. “You may look after them. I’ll have to work all night to make more golden silk. I can’t afford any distractions.”

Sweetie Belle heard this and she couldn’t help but feel guilty. But, her friends were there to comfort her.

Later, Fluttershy’s leading the fillies to her cottage with Spike on her back. Fluttershy was expressing her excitement and ideas of what they could do there.

“Oh, we’re going to have such a wonderful time,” Fluttershy chirped. “We could have a nice little tea party, sit around and color, and tell each other breezy tales, and-” She then noticed that the fillies were being unusually quiet. “Why are they being so quiet?”

“I don’t know,” Spike said. “Hopefully, they’re not up to too much trouble.”

They looked back and saw the Crusaders inspecting a cart full of milk cans being pulled by Ash.

“Girls,” Fluttershy called. “My cottage is this way.”

The fillies barely heard her as they were a few hooves away and Fluttershy’s voice was just barely above a whisper.

“Don’t worry, Fluttershy,” Spike said. “I got this.” He cleared his throat and gave a loud whistle. “HEY! Cutie Mark Crusader meet-up starts in 5 minutes!”

The fillies quickly regrouped with him and Fluttershy.

“Be careful, Spike,” Fluttershy said. “I don’t want you straining your throat.”

“Thanks, Fluttershy,” Spike said at a more normal volume. “But, I’ll be fine. If I need to brew some tea or gargle with warm salt water, I will.”

“Oh, that reminds me,” Fluttershy said. “There’s some andalusite shard cookies left over from our last tea party if you want some.”

“Sounds great,” Spike smiled.

Soon, they arrived at Fluttershy’s cottage. By that time, the sun was starting to set.

The fillies wasted no time exploring the pegasus’ home.

“Wow, look at this place!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly.

They began dashing around. Spike looked around, still close to Fluttershy. All his tea parties with her had been held outside.

“So, this is what the inside of your cottage looks like,” he said calmly but still enamored. “It’s so you.” He carefully climbed down the yellow pegasus.

“Thank you,” Fluttershy smiled. “So, now that we’re all here, what should we do first?”

“I’ll get my mark first!” Scootaloo said.

“No way!” Sweetie Belle said eagerly. “I’m going to!”

“Uh, girls,” Fluttershy said. “Maybe—”

“Ah am!” Apple Bloom piped up.

“Girls!” Fluttershy said.

“I’m going to stay up all night!” Scootaloo chuckled.

“Me, too,” Apple Bloom said.

“Me, three!” Sweetie Belle squeaked.

“That’s not a good idea,” Spike said.

“I know you girls are excited,” Fluttershy said. “But, please be careful. Perhaps we can play a nice game?”

“We’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders,” Scootaloo said.

“N’ we’re crusadin’ fer our Cutie Marks!” Apple Bloom announced gloriously.

Sweetie Belle struggled to say a follow-up. “Uh… what they said,” she ended up saying.

Fluttershy grew rather hesitant.

“I don't know about that,” Fluttershy said. “How about a nice quiet little tea party?”

Scootaloo looked out the window. “Or… we could go exploring in the Everfree Forest!”

“Absolutely not!” Spike interjected.

“Spike’s right,” Fluttershy said. “Apple Bloom, you know that the Everfree Forest is dangerous to go into alone, even if you did go in during the day. It’s much more dangerous to travel through there at night because of the creatures that make their homes there.”

“And the Whomping Willow,” Spike said.

“You guys could go in with us!” Sweetie Belle said. “This way we can catch the creatures and trim that Whomping Willow! We could be… um… creature catchers!”

The other fillies liked the idea.

“Yay!” The Cutie Mark Crusaders shouted excitedly. “Cutie Mark Crusader Creature Catchers!”

“The CMCCC!” Apple Bloom added.

“No!” Spike insisted.

“Oh, right,” Scootaloo said. “I guess it wouldn’t really work. I mean, I can probably handle it with my mom and dad being creature handlers in Austailia***, but, you guys don’t have the same experience.”

“And neither do you!” Spike said.

“Um,” Fluttershy said, trying to calm the situation down. “Maybe we can all sit down, relax, and do some nice coloring.”

The fillies looked to each other.

“Ooh!” Sweetie Belle thought. “We can be carpenters!”

“Carpenters?” Spike said. “But, everything’s—”

“We can take that table over yonder n’ add ta it!” Apple Bloom smiled. “Ah learned a thang er two ‘bout usin’ tools on the farm.”

The three fillies grabbed hammers and they got to “work” on Fluttershy’s table, which really was just smashing it with the hammers. The end results looked more like an abstract art piece than a table.

“That doesn’t look like a table,” Sweetie Belle observed.

“That thing needs to be put out if its misery,” Apple Bloom noted.

“Guess we’re not really cut out to be carpenters,” Scootaloo said.

“Well, now that that’s out of the way,” Fluttershy said. “How about a game?”

“What kind?” Apple Bloom asked.

“A fun one,” Fluttershy answered. “It’s called ‘Shhh.’”

“What’s that?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well,” Fluttershy explained. “It’s a game about who can be quiet the longest.”

The fillies knew at once they couldn’t win and Spike gave them a smug grin.

“Fluttershy is great at this game,” Spike said. “I’ll start us off. Ready, set, go.” He then made a mouth-zipping gesture with his claws.

Fluttershy smiled. Three seconds later, the CMCs piped up.

“I lose!” Scootaloo said.

“Me, too!” Sweetie Belle said.

“Me, three!” Apple Bloom said.

Spike signed that the game was still on since he and Fluttershy were still being quiet.

“Now,” Scootaloo said. “We can focus on other ways we can get our Cutie Marks.”

“Yeah!” Apple Bloom smiled. “Like coal minin’!” In her excitement, she jumped up and landed on top of Spike, who didn’t even grunt in pain. “Oops! Ah’m so sorry, Spike. Ah didn’t mean ta do that. Are ya okay?”

He nodded, but, Fluttershy became concerned right away.

“You can talk now, Spike,” Fluttershy said. “The game’s over.”

“Spike won a quiet game against Fluttershy?!” Apple Bloom said in disbelief.

“Guess there’s a first time for everything,” Sweetie Belle said.

“I think it’s time that we all turned in,” Fluttershy said.

“Fine by me,” Spike said, drowsily. “I’m starting to get a little cold.”

“Are you ready, fillies?” Fluttershy offered kindly. “Are you ready to get all cozy and comfy in my snuggly-wuggly bed?”

“Snuggly-wuggly?” Apple Bloom said as Spike started to yawn. “Uh, is Spike okay?”

“He may be ten in pony years,” Fluttershy explained softly as she gently cradled Spike in her front hooves. “But, he is still a baby dragon and he needs his sleep. Besides, he’s not warm-blooded like us, so, he can’t generate his own heat. He’s more sensitive to the cold. The colder it is, the sleepier he gets.”

“He can breathe fire, but, he can’t generate his own heat?” Scootaloo asked in confusion.

“I know it sounds confusing at first,” Fluttershy said. “But, over time, we’ll all understand more of him.” She allowed him to get on her back. “Come on. Let’s get settled in.” With that, she and the fillies marched upstairs.

A short time later, Spike was tucked in nice and warm in a spare basket bed that Fluttershy had. He was sound asleep as he drifted to Dreamland. Fluttershy allowed the fillies to use her own bed and she was tucking them in gently.

“How’ll we find our special talents in our sleep?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Maybe you each will have a dream about your special talents,” Fluttershy considered kindly. “Now for a lullaby.”

The Cutie Mark Crusaders settled in as Fluttershy gently cleared her throat. Then, she began to sing.

“Hush now, quiet now
It’s time to lay your sleepy head
Hush now, quiet now
It’s time to go to bed~”

Spike gently shifted under his blanket. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo were soothed by Fluttershy’s soft singing. Sweetie Belle, however, recognized the lullaby that Fluttershy was singing and seemed more excited than sleepy.

“I know this one!” Sweetie Belle squeaked happily.

“How wonderful,” Fluttershy said. “Why don’t you sing it with me?”

Sweetie Belle smiled at this and seeing this as a chance to mess with Fluttershy, she cleared her throat. She gave her friends a mischievous little smile. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo gave knowing smiles and covered their ears. At that moment, Sweetie Belle belted out her version. Instead of it sounding like a lullaby, it was more like a gospel rendition.

“HUSH now, quiet now
Cuz’ it’s time to lay your sleepy head
Said, hush now, quiet now
Cuz’ it’s time to go to bed~!”

This woke Spike up instantly. Fluttershy was caught off guard by Sweetie Belle’s beautiful, yet very loud, singing.

“Oh, that’s very nice, Sweetie, but-” Fluttershy said softly, but, she was promptly interrupted by Sweetie Belle’s rendition.

“Driftin’ off to sleep,
The exciting day behind you
Driftin’ off to sleep
Let the joy of Dreamland FIND YOU~!”

Fluttershy noticed a grumpy Spike waddling towards the bed and tried to warn Sweetie Belle.

“Um, Sweetie?” Fluttershy said. “You might want to-”

“Hush now, quiet now
Lay your sleepy head~
Said, hush now, quiet now
Cuz’ it’s time to go to BEEEEEEEEEEEEEED
OW!”

Spike grabbed Sweetie Belle’s tail and yanked her off the bed before forcing her to look him in the bloodshot eyes. “WHAT HAVE YOU GOT AGAINST THE CONCEPT OF A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP, HUH?!”

Immediately, Sweetie Belle regretted her decision to mess with Fluttershy. “I’m sorry, Spike,” Sweetie Belle said. “I meant to be loud, but, I didn’t realize I was going to be that loud.”

“YOU ONLY MADE ENOUGH NOISE TO WAKE THE DEAD!!!” Spike said.

Sweetie Belle sighed sadly. At that moment, they heard a commotion coming from outside. Sweetie Belle’s singing not only woke up Spike, but, it also woke the flock of chickens in Fluttershy’s roost.

“I don’t think that’s the dead, but, it definitely sound like you woke something up,” Scootaloo said.

“It’s my chickens!” Fluttershy gasped worriedly. “Wait in here, everyone, while I calm them down and help them back to their roost.”

“I’LL KEEP AN EYE ON THEM SO THEY DON’T SCREW UP MORE!” Spike said.

“Please stop yelling, Spike,” Fluttershy said.

“I’M TRYING, BUT, I’M IN SUCH A BAD MOOD FROM BEING WOKEN UP I CAN’T STOP!” Spike said.

Sweetie Belle gave Spike a sorrowful hug and she rubbed his left cheek. She still felt bad for what she did, but, she could at least try to soothe Spike’s nerves. Spike took a deep breath and looked at Sweetie Belle. “Sweetie Belle,” he said.

“Yes?” Sweetie Belle said, wincing and preparing for anything.

“Life lesson #1,” Spike said. “If you’re looking for a good time, don’t. Wake. A sleeping. Dragon.”

“Believe me, I know now,” Sweetie Belle said. “And I’m never going to do that again.”

“Good,” Spike said. “You’re lucky you’re younger than me so I held back. When Rainbow woke me up, I spat embers in her mane. You dig me?”

“Oh, I dig you,” Sweetie Belle said. “And I understand, too.”

“Hey, ah wonder how Fluttershy’s doin’ with her chickens,” Apple Bloom said.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders looked out the still open bedroom window. She had managed to coax the chickens towards the entrance of the roost, but, they seemed hesitant to go back inside for fear that the noise they heard might be an approaching predator.

“Don’t even think about going outside,” Spike said.

“We’re not,” Scootaloo said. “We can see from here.”

“If Fluttershy says she needs help,” Apple Bloom said. “We’ll help her. But, she don’t.”

“I don’t blame her,” Spike said. “You ruined her table and left her chickens fearing a predator’s coming.”

“What’s a predator?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“An animal that kills lesser animals for food,” Spike said.

Sweetie Belle now felt even worse for her loud singing before. But, before she could wallow in self-pity, they heard Fluttershy talk to the chickens.

“It’s okay, chickens,” Fluttershy said. “Go on inside. Everything’s alright now.”

But, the chickens were still too frightened. When this happened, Fluttershy’s eyes began to glow. The chickens gazed into them and hastened back into their roost. Fluttershy’s eyes suddenly stopped glowing and blinked to bring moisture back into them.

“Pleasant dreams, little ones,” Fluttershy said with a smile. She then flew back up towards her bedroom window. The Cutie Mark Crusaders saw her approach and backed up so that there wasn't a collision.

“Are you okay, Fluttershy?” Spike asked when he noticed her blinking a bit.

“Yes, I’m alright,” Fluttershy said.

“You used the Stare, didn’t you?” Spike asked.

“I did,” Fluttershy admitted. “Thankfully, not too long, though. Nothing some eye drops won’t cure.”

She left the room while Spike had a worried look that the Crusaders noticed.

“What’s wrong?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Fluttershy just damaged her eyes a bit,” Spike said.

“How?” Apple Bloom asked in a worried yet confused tone.

“Well, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle,” Spike said. “You know how your sisters have Mystic Eyes?” The two mentioned fillies nod yes. “Well, Fluttershy has a set of her own, the Mystic Eyes of Submission.”

“Whoa~” Scootaloo said. “We didn’t know that.”

“She doesn’t use them very often for two reasons,” Spike said. “First, she has to keep her eyes open when they’re active. Even blinking can turn them off. The longer she keeps them open, the drier her eyes get. If her eyes get too dry, she can’t see for a while.”

Sweetie Belle felt even worse than before. Hearing Spike talk about this and how she set everything into motion made her feel terrible. Now, she wished she was never at Fluttershy’s cottage. She crawled into Fluttershy’s bed and wrapped herself in the comforter like a sad burrito. Spike looked out the window and saw a hole in the fence of the chicken pen and chicken footprints leading out. The footprints continued into the forest.

“Oh, boy,” Spike said worriedly. “This isn’t good.”

“What is it, Spike?” Scootaloo asked.

“One of Fluttershy’s chickens ran into the Everfree Forest,” Spike said.

Hearing that, Sweetie Belle and the other Crusaders donned their capes.

“Well,” Sweetie Belle said. “Since it was my fault that she’s awake and out there, I’m responsible for retrieving her and bringing her safely back.”

“And,” Scootaloo said triumphantly. “We’re going, too, to make sure you’re not alone. Cutie Mark Crusaders stick together no matter what!”

“Are you crazy?!” Spike asked. “The Everfree Forest is dangerous!”

“We know that,” Apple Bloom said. “But, that chicken needs our help. Shouldn’t somepony rescue her?”

“Zecora lives in the Everfree Forest,” Spike said. “Let her deal with it.”

“Rarity said I need to take responsibility for my actions,” Sweetie Belle said.

“There’s a world of difference between taking responsibility and something like this,” Spike said.

“How exactly?” Sweetie Belle said. “That chicken is out there scared and alone and I’m the one who caused her to feel that way. I got her into trouble, so now, I’m going to get her out of it.”

“The Everfree Forest is full of creatures too dangerous to live anywhere else in Equestria,” Spike said. “There might even be at least one of the creatures that eats dragons.”

“That chicken could be dead meat by now!” Apple Bloom said. “Come on, y’all!”

Spike sighed in defeat, seeing that he won’t be able to change the fillies’ minds. “Fine,” he said. “But, I’m going with you.”

“That’s the CMC spirit!” Scootaloo smiled. “Cutie Mark Crusaders Chicken Rescuers, let’s go!”

Spike and the fillies quietly snuck past Fluttershy. By this time, her eyes had healed and she was drifting to sleep on her chaise lounge. Once Spike and the fillies were outside, Spike reached into the loose scales and pulled out his sword, which he used as a torch.

“I can still see her tracks,” Spike said. He noticed the fillies looking at Spike in surprise. “What?”

“Where did you get that thing?” Scootaloo asked. “Where were you even holding it?”

“I figured out a while ago that I have some loose scales on my sides that I can use as pockets,” Spike explained. “As for where I got this, I made it out of sticks, duct tape, and a scale given to me by a river serpent.”

“This wouldn’t happen to be the same one you met on your way to stop Nightmare Moon?” asked Sweetie Belle.

“I wasn’t alone,” Spike said. “I was mostly a distraction while Twilight and the others used the Elements of Harmony.”

“What’s all this Elements of Harmony stuff?” Scootaloo asked.

“Maybe wait until after we find the missing chicken to hear the story?” Spike said, reminding them why they were out in the first place.

“Right,” said Apple Bloom. “Now… where can that chicken be?”

“Call it a hunch,” Spike quipped. “But, I believe these footprints give a good idea.” He pointed his glowing sword at the chicken footprints in the ground.

The quartet started to follow the chicken tracks. Spike dragged his tail on the ground to make a trail. “What’s that for?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I’m leaving a trail for us to follow so we don’t get lost,” Spike explained.

So, the four younglings ventured deep into the forest.

Back with Fluttershy in her cottage, she was drifting to sleep on her chaise lounge.

“Hmm, peace and quiet.” Fluttershy sighed softly. However, her eyes popped open when she realized what she said. “Too quiet! Something’s wrong!”

She flew up the stairs into her room. She gasped when she saw not only her bed empty, but, also saw the spare basket bed empty.

“Oh, no!” Fluttershy gasped worriedly. “Where are they?!”

She flew out of her cottage. She saw her lost chicken’s footprints and Spike’s tail path.

“Elizabeak!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “Oh no! Spike and the fillies must’ve gone looking for her in…” She followed the tracks.

“The Everfree Forest…” Fluttershy gulped. “Those fillies have bitten off more than they can chew this time. So have Spike and myself.”

Fluttershy was afraid, but, she knew she couldn’t leave the younglings to venture in the forest alone. She had to go in to rescue them and Elizabeak with them. So, she slowly made her way in, picking up her pace along the way.

Meanwhile, Spike and the crusaders ventured deeper into the forest. Apple Bloom was trying to lure the chicken closer to them with a chicken call.

“Here, chick chick chick chick chick,” Apple Bloom called. “Bawk, bawk bawk bawk bawk.”

“What are you doing?” Scootaloo asked.

“What’dya think Ah’m doin’?” Apple Bloom asked. “Ah’m callin’ fer the chicken.”

“That’s not how you call a chicken,” Scootaloo commented.

“Oh, ah’m sorry,” Apple Bloom said sarcastically. “Ah didn’t know ya lived on a farm, too.****”

Scootaloo was about to retort, but, she remembered that she herself didn’t live on a farm like Apple Bloom did.

“Carry on,” Scootaloo said.

“That’s what ah thought, ya city slicker,” Apple Bloom said.

“Okay, maybe we can get back to the chicken search instead of mudslinging,” Spike said.

“Good idea,” Sweetie Belle said. “That wouldn’t make a good Cutie Mark anyway.”

While Spike and the crusaders resumed their search, Fluttershy was looking for them.

“Spike~?” Fluttershy called. “Apple Bloom~? Sweetie Belle~? Scootaloo~? Where are you?”

She suddenly stepped on a branch. She yelped in surprise, but, she continued on anyway. She looked ahead and saw the silhouette of a familiar townspony.

“Shoeshine?*****” she asked.

Shoeshine didn’t seem to respond, however. Fluttershy approached her cautiously. In the low lighting, Fluttershy could only make out the earth mare’s shape.

“What are you doing here?” Fluttershy asked. “Are you learning to walk through the forest so you won’t be as afraid of it as other ponies are?”

No answer came.

“Shoeshine, what’s wrong?” Fluttershy grew increasingly nervous.

The clouds parted and moonlight shone on Shoeshine, revealing why she couldn’t speak. She was frozen solid encased in stone. Fluttershy gasped. She came to understand why this was the case. “I have to find them quick!”

With a new sense of determination, or at least, what she thought was determination, Fluttershy ventured deeper into the forest, following the trails.

With Spike and the crusaders, Spike was growing increasingly nervous. Sweetie Belle took notice.

“Spike,” Sweetie Belle asked. “Are you okay?”

“I wouldn’t exactly say that,” Spike admitted. “I’m mostly afraid of running into a Whomping Willow.”

“Ya mentioned that before,” Apple Bloom said. “What is it?”

“A tree that you REALLY don’t want to get close to,” Spike said. “I saw one use one of its branches to slam a bird into the ground.”

“That’s terrible!” Sweetie Belle gasped.

“How can a tree do that?” Scootaloo asked. “Seriously. It’s a tree.”

“A tree growing in the one place in Equestria where magic works differently from the rest of it,” Spike pointed out.

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Applejack did have a point ‘bout trees growin’ on their own here.”

“Well,” Spike said. “If you really think about it, there’s trees that grow far away from any pony influence. And not just here.”

“Like what?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Uncharted islands,” Spike said. “And there’s also jungles inhabited by only wild animals. Besides, earth ponies have no control over how fast or slow trees grow anyway. So, pony influence ultimately doesn’t really change anything in the long run.******”

“Wow,” Sweetie Belle said, amazed. “Rarity was right. You really are smart.”

“As much as I appreciate the compliment,” Spike said. “We have a chicken to find.”

“Spike~” called a familiar voice from afar. “Girls~!”

“Fluttershy?” Sweetie Belle said.

Fluttershy ran to meet up with them and she stopped, panting with both worry and exhaustion. “We have to get out of here and back to my cottage, please!”

“But, we haven’t found the chicken,” Scootaloo said.

“We can’t worry about that now,” Fluttershy said. “There is a cockatrice on the loose!”

“Cocka-what now?” Apple Bloom asked.

“I think I read about those,” Spike said. “They were the result of a crossbreed between a dragon and a rooster.*******”

“That’s right,” Fluttershy said. “But, they’re not frightening because they’re part dragon. They’re frightening because they can turn any creature that looks into their eyes into stone in a matter of seconds!”

“I read that their eyes originally only had the power to stun,********” Spike said. “Over several generations, their eyes mutated to have the power of petrification.”

Just then, they heard the sound of a chicken clucking. They turned their attention to a nearby bush and saw a white chicken peck innocently out of it.

“There’s the chicken!” Sweetie Belle said.

“Elizabeak, it’s okay,” Fluttershy said gently. “Girls, be careful.”

Spike noticed another chicken head in the bush. “I don’t like the look of this.”

“Well, well, well,” said the other chicken head with a scratchy voice. “It seems that a pure dragon has wandered into my territory.”

The Cutie Mark Crusaders heard the creature’s voice and they stopped running excitedly towards Elizabeak.

“Did that chicken head just talk?” Scootaloo asked.

“That’s the Cockatrice,” Fluttershy said, terror in her voice. “Girls, Spike, come behind me, please.”

The cockatrice simply gazed into Elizabeak’s eyes with his own red glowing eyes. In a flash of light, the little hen was turned into stone. The Cutie Mark Crusaders saw this ordeal and did the only thing they could think of at that moment: Scream with terror and run around. The cockatrice laughed in a manner reminiscent of both a rooster crowing and a dragon roaring. Seeing Elizabeak turned to stone and hearing the cockatrice’s malicious laughter, something snapped inside Fluttershy and she had a very brave face on.

“GIRLS!” Fluttershy said firmly. “Behind me, NOW!”

The Crusaders obediently got behind Fluttershy.

“Isn’t that cute,” the cockatrice laughed. “The pegasus thinks she’s a threat. I’ll just turn you into stone, too.” He looked into Fluttershy’s eyes, but, to his surprise, she didn’t turn to stone right away, but, slowly did so, starting with her back hooves. “What?! Another Mystic Eye user?!*********”

“That’s right,” Fluttershy said sternly. “Just who do you think you are, turning those who haven’t even thought of hurting you into stone?!”

“The world has rejected my race since our conception,” the cockatrice asserted. “Besides, who are you to judge how I use my powers? What good is it to have such powers if they’re never used?”

“Yes, you do have such power,” Fluttershy said as her eyes started glowing. “But, if you just go around turning everything and everyone into stone without so much as a chance to reason with you, that can lead to a lot of trouble! Excess of such a power can also hurt and even damage your eyes if you’re not careful! In fact, you could run out and then when you meet a creature that actually does try to hurt you, then what will happen?”

“Why should I listen to a pony?” the cockatrice challenged. “Ponies banished my species to this forsaken forest.”

“And I am very sorry to hear that,” Fluttershy said. “But, you should still know better! You’re being very irresponsible right now! I have a mind to find your mother and tell her what you’ve been doing! Now, you go over there to turn Elizabeak and Shoeshine back to normal. And don’t ever let me catch you doing this without a justifiable reason again! Do you understand me?!”

Though the cockatrice put up resistance, his eye began to wane from being open so long, making him susceptible to Fluttershy's Mystic Eyes of Submission.

“Y-yes, ma’am!” The cockatrice stammered. He closed his eyes and the petrification effect stopped. The developing cocoon of stone on Fluttershy shattered. The cockatrice ran off deeper into the forest. Spike and the Cutie Mark Crusaders saw everything and were both relieved and surprised.

Elizabeak reverted to normal as well. Fluttershy turned her attention to her friends, her eyes no longer aglow, but, a bit shrunken and bloodshot.

“Are you alright?” she asked kindly. “I was so worried.”

“We’re fine,” Spike said. “But, what about you?”

“I’m alright, Spike,” Fluttershy said. “My eyes are sore, but, they’re not as sore as when I talked to Razer.” She shut them. “I still won’t be able to see for a while, though.”

“I can act as your Seeing Eye Dragon and lead you back with the path,” Spike said.

“Thank you, Spike,” Fluttershy said. She nuzzled the top of his head.

“Thank ya, too, Fluttershy,” Apple Bloom smiled gratefully.

“We’re sorry for causing so much trouble,” Sweetie Belle apologized.

“We promise to listen to you from now on,” Scootaloo said.

“Good idea,” Spike said. “Let’s follow my trail back.”

As they followed Spike’s trail, they saw Shoeshine. She was somewhat discombobulated from being turned to stone and back again.

“Hi, everyone,” she said. “What’s going on?”

“It’s kind of a long story, Shoeshine,” Spike said. “But, would you mind if we told you later? It’s getting late and we’ve got to get to bed.”

“Well, okay,” Shoeshine said. “Hopefully, there’s some good gossip.”

The next morning, Twilight had arrived and was writing a letter while Spike tried to ask if he could do it.

“Please, Twilight?” Spike begged.

“I told you, I can handle this, Spike,” Twilight said. “After what you’ve been through last night, I want to give you a break.”

“Fair enough,” Spike said. “But, I get to write the next letter, right?”

“If you’re around, yes,” Twilight said. “I might learn something when you’re away on your next therapy session.”

“Alright,” Spike said.

“You can go play with the fillies in the meantime,” Twilight said.

“Sure thing,” Spike smiled.

Fluttershy finished up her story after he left.

“Thanks again for looking after Spike, Fluttershy,” Twilight said. “I know you had a lot to do last night looking after the Cutie Mark Crusaders, but, I appreciate you looking after him, too.”

“Spike was very well behaved,” Fluttershy said. “Until Sweetie Belle woke him up.”

“Hopefully,” Twilight said. “She’ll at least know now not to do so again in the future. I see you managed to handle them well.”

“It, um, didn’t start off so well, honestly,” Fluttershy admitted. “I learned the hard way that I shouldn’t bite off more than I could chew.”

“Sounds like something Rarity could learn,” Twilight said.

At that moment, the fashionista unicorn herself arrived to pick up Sweetie Belle. She had a much more relaxed look on her face.

“Hello, Rarity,” Fluttershy greeted politely. “How did it go with the capes?”

“Just had them delivered,” Rarity said.

“That’s good,” Fluttershy smiled. “And you look much better, too.”

“I certainly feel it,” Rarity said. “I also wanted to apologize to Sweetie Belle for my behavior towards her yesterday, so, I’m going to take her to her favorite ice cream shop********** on the way home.”

She saw the crusaders playfully tackling Spike. Spike was laughing happily since the tackling was more like tickling. Especially with Sweetie Belle rubbing her hooves on his stomach. Rarity couldn’t help but coo at the adorableness.

“Looks like they found his tickle spot,” Twilight said.

“So it seems,” Rarity smiled. “I may just have to remember that in case he’s feeling down during a gem hunt.”

“Sounds good,” Twilight said. “Whenever Spike’s feeling grumpy, a good tickle perks him up.”

“Good to know,” Rarity said with a smile. “Now, girls, pack your things.”

But, the three fillies were too caught up in their playing to heed Rarity’s words. Not that they were being mean, they were just fillies being fillies. Plus, Spike’s laughter drowned out a bit of Rarity’s voice.

“Uh, girls?” Rarity called a bit louder. “Girls~?!”

“Here, Rarity,” Fluttershy said. She gently cleared her throat. “Girls?”

The fillies immediately stopped what they were doing and turned their attention to Fluttershy. Spike was grateful for this distraction as it meant he could catch his breath.

“Yeah, Fluttershy?” Apple Bloom asked politely.

“Pick up your things,” Fluttershy said. “Rarity’s going to escort you home.”

“Already done,” Sweetie Belle said. “We only brought our capes.”

“That’s good,” Rarity smiled. “And Sweetie Belle? I do apologize for any hardships I put on you yesterday.”

“It’s okay,” the white filly said. “I’m the one who put them on you. You had an order to fill and I was just in the way.”

“It’s alright, Sweetie Belle,” Rarity said. “I’m still going to treat you to ice cream at your favorite ice cream shop to make things up to you.”

Sweetie Belle’s eyes twinkled.

“Rarity, you’re the best!” Sweetie Belle squeaked happily.

At that moment, Spike got up. He walked over to Fluttershy and hugged her. “Thanks, Fluttershy,” he said.

“You’re welcome, Spike,” Fluttershy smiled, reciprocating the hug. She even gave him a motherly kiss on the forehead.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders then followed Rarity. As they passed by Fluttershy, they said, “Thanks, Fluttershy!”

End of chapter.

Author's Notes:

Here's the next chapter.

*Random idea of mine.

**Random idea of Blake.

***The Equestria version of Australia. Stated by Big Jim.

****That sure shut Scootaloo up. Seriously, who's she to criticize the chicken call of someone who lives on a farm when she doesn't?

*****This was to prevent the Thomas The Tank Engine-itis Twilight suffered in season 1.

******Personally, I feel that the Everfree Forest being the only place in Equestria where trees grow without pony influence to be a bit of a stretch considering the size of Equestria and the locations ponies likely don't live. Plus, before G5, pony influence didn't really make much of a difference in the long run anyway.

*******Real mythology.

********Also real mythology.

*********Mystic Eye users that use active eye powers have the ability to resist the active eye powers of another through force of will. This doesn't make them immune to it, but, it can slow down the effect.

**********FORESHADOWING!!!

If you liked this chapter, feel free to contact me via private messages if you'd like to help make future chapters.

Chapter 18: The Show Stoppers (S1:E18)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 18: The Show Stoppers

It was five days after Fluttershy foalsat Spike and the crusaders. On that particular day, Applejack was leading them through some trees on Sweet Apple Acres.

“Applejack,” Apple Bloom called out impatiently. “Where’re we even goin’? Feels like we’ve been trottin’ through these parts fer hours.”

“It’s only been like five minutes,” Spike said.

“Oh,” Apple Bloom said. “But, we still don’t know where we’re goin’.”

“I’ve never been here before,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Me neither,” Scootaloo added. “I thought we saw every part of Sweet Apple Acres.”

“Not ev’ry part,” Apple Bloom said. “There’s parts even ah ain’t seen yet.”

Apple Bloom moved a large leaf out of the way, but, it accidentally whacked Scootaloo in the face. “Ow!”

“Oops,” Apple Bloom said. “Sorry, Scootaloo.”

“Are we even there yet?” the pegasus filly asked. She hated asking the obvious question, but, she was fast losing patience.

“Are we even where yet?” Sweetie Belle asked.

"Ah, here we are," Applejack said at last and stopped at what appeared to be some sort of wooden building. But, it had clearly seen better days. The paint was dull and chipped in many places and most of the wood was rotten and decayed.

“What’re we even lookin’ at?” Apple Bloom asked, not impressed.

“Don’t ask me,” said Scootaloo. “I have no idea.”

“What is it anyway?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Looks like no one’s been here for years.”

"Cutie Mark Crusaders, welcome ta yer new clubhouse," Applejack said proudly. She expected to be showered with praise, but, all she got was a long silence and a few angry glares. "Well, don't thank me all at once," she continued. "Y’all fillies’ll never believe this, but, this used tah be mah clubhouse when ah was yer age. Sure, it hasn't been used in a while, but, it's empty n’ on a secluded, private part of the farm. N’ it's all yers. It just needs a little, uh..." Applejack paused, trying to think of a good word to describe the neglected building "TLC," she said at last.

“‘TLC’ as in ‘Tender Loving Care,’ or ‘Totally Lost Cause?’” Scootaloo asked.

“This clubhouse is a bit of a fi-fi-” Spike began before the dust started tickling his nose.

“Take cover!” Applejack shouted in alarm as everyone got out of the way of Spike’s fire sneeze, with Applejack turning his body to face away from anything flammable. Two days ago, Applejack was watching over Spike and the Crusaders. They were playing a game that kicked up dust that tickled Spike’s nose, resulting in a sneeze that burnt down a dead tree.*

“Ah-CHOOO~!” Spike sneezed, releasing a burst of emerald green fire. Thankfully, his path was clear and nothing was set ablaze. Blades of grass were singed, but, nonetheless, nopony was hurt.

“Fine place you picked to sneeze, Spike,” Scootaloo chastised.

“He couldn’t help it,” Sweetie Belle said, defending Spike. “He can’t always tell. When you need to sneeze, you need to sneeze.”

“Anyway,” Apple Bloom said before Scootaloo could say anything else that might be hurtfu. “Applejack, ya mean ta tell us that this is goin’ ta be our new clubhouse?”

Applejack leaned against one of the wall boards and said, "Well, maybe y'all can get yer Cutie Marks when ya discover yer talent fer..." Just then, the wall board she was leaning against gave way and she crashed. Fortunately, she wasn't hurt. "Uh... house cleanin'?"

“Are you okay, Applejack?” Spike asked, holding his nose with a handkerchief.

“Ah’m fine,” Applejack assured. “We earth ponies can take a lot o’ punishment.”

“Well,” Apple Bloom said, looking over the clubhouse. “Looks like we better get started. We got a lot o’ work ta do.”

“I better get something to cover my nose,” Spike said.

“Ah got a spare bandana in the barn ya can use,” Applejack offered. “It should be nice n’ clean.”

“If you can lead me to it,” Spike said. “That’d be great.”

“Ya got it, sugarcube,” Applejack smiled. She led Spike to the barn and retrieved a red bandana folded on one of the shelves. She picked it up and gave it to Spike. “Here ya go.”

“Thanks,” Spike said as he tied it around his nose.

“Ah used ta wear that there bandana a lot,” Applejack said.

“I’ll give it back when I’m done using it,” Spike promised. Applejack stifled a giggle. “What’s so funny?”

“Ya look like a li’l bandit wearin’ the bandana like that,” Applejack said.

“Hmm,” Spike said. “Maybe after we’re done fixing up the clubhouse, we can play a game.”

“Y’all best help them fillies out first,” Applejack said.

“Good idea,” Spike said. He headed back to the clubhouse.

So, the younglings looked over the clubhouse ruins and figured out the best way to go about the job.

“I’ll handle sweeping the dust,” Spike said.

“Ah can sand down the splinters in the wood,” Apple Bloom said.

“I can dust the furniture,” Sweetie Belle said.

“And I can replace the broken glass in the windows with new glass,” Scootaloo said.

“I can help make the new glass,” Spike offered.

“Ah can apply some varnish to keep the clubhouse lookin’ nice, too,” Apple Bloom said.

Sweetie Belle struggled to think of another job for herself.

“Maybe you can put up some curtains,” Scootaloo suggested. “Or bring some flowers in a vase to spruce up the place.”

Sweetie Belle liked that idea. “Thanks, Scootaloo!”

And so, they all set to work. Apple Bloom began rebuilding and repainting the clubhouse on her own, making it look better than before. Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Spike helped out wherever there was need for them.

“Am I the only one who noticed that Apple Bloom made this look better alone than when we tried fixing a table together?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I think it’s a ‘too many chefs’ thing,” Spike said.

“But, we were being carpenters, not chefs,” Scootaloo said.

“It’s an expression, Scootaloo,” Spike said. “It means too many ponies working on the same thing, leading to less ideal results.”

“Oh,” Scootaloo said. “That makes more sense. Thanks.”

“I’ll go dust the furniture,” Sweetie Belle said.

“I’ll go get some sand,” Spike said.

“Scootaloo,” Apple Bloom said. “Think ya can grab some extra supplies from town?”

“On my way,” Scootaloo said.

“Thanks,” Apple Bloom said.

“How about I make a map of Ponyville while I’m at it?” Scootaloo offered.

“Sure, if yer up for it,” Apple Bloom smiled.

“Or,” Spike suggested. “You can get an actual map.”

“I don’t know if I have enough bits for that and supplies,” Scootaloo said.

“That’s fair,” Spike shrugged. “We should at least make a list of the supplies we need.”

“Let’s see,” Apple Bloom said in a thoughtful way. “We’ll need nails, pots o’ paint, n’ paintbrushes fer one thing. The supplies ah used’re just a temporary fix.”

Spike jotted down the list that Apple Bloom described quickly, still making sure that the words were legible. “Okay, now, where can those things be found?”

“There is a crafting supplies store in town,” Scootaloo said. “I can get the paintbrushes there.”

“And there’s the hardware store in town,” Apple Bloom said. “That’s where ya can find the nails n’ paint we need.”

“Alright,” Spike said. He then looked over Scootaloo’s scooter. “I think you’ll need a wagon to carry everything, though.”

“That’s not a problem,” Scootaloo said. “I have a wagon I can grab from home while I’m out.”

“Okay,” Spike said as he gave her the list.

“Thanks,” Scootaloo. “See you guys later. I’ll be back.” And with that, she went off into town to pick up the supplies.

While she was away, Spike helped Sweetie Belle move the furniture from the clubhouse. He had to put in more effort with the heavier items, but, managed well with the rest.

Some time later, Scootaloo made her way back to Sweet Apple Acres to the clubhouse spot. She got the supplies that they needed, towing them in a red wagon with her scooter. Spike was carrying the last piece of furniture out. It was a table about half his height.

“Hey, Spike,” Scootaloo smiled. “You’re doing awesome!”

“Thanks,” Spike said as he placed the table down. “And thank you for picking up the supplies.” He wiped his forehead with a rag.

“Can I get you anything?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well,” Spike asked. “Do you happen to have any green apple rock candy?”

“I think I have some from a goodie bag I got at one of Pinkie’s parties,” Scootaloo said. She searched through her saddlebag and found a chunk of green apple rock candy. “How’s this?”

“That’s perfect,” Spike said. Scootaloo gave it to him and he took a big bite out of it. “Mm~!” He offered it back, but, Scootaloo told him he could keep it.

“No thanks,” Scootaloo said. “I mostly prefer orange.”

“Okie dokie,” Spike said as he finished the rock candy. After swallowing, he said, “Just like an emerald.”

“Wait,” Scootaloo asked. “Gems actually do have flavor?”

“Well, they do to me,” Spike said.

“Wow,” Scootaloo said. “I had heard Sweetie Belle say something along those lines during recess earlier this week, but, it’s cool to learn from the source.”

They suddenly heard singing. They followed the sound and found Sweetie Belle dusting the furniture with her tail.

“We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders~
Hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm~
Hmm-hmm, never stop the journey~
Hmmm~”

“Nice singing,” Spike said.

“What’s that you’re singing anyway?” Scootaloo asked. “I hadn't heard anything like that before.”

“I was trying to come up with a Cutie Mark Crusaders theme song,” Sweetie Belle explained.

“That’s awesome!” Scootaloo smiled. “Capes, a clubhouse, and a theme song? Boy, we’re really coming together with this!”

“The lyrics could use some workshopping, though,” Spike said. The fillies didn’t understand.

“What do you mean?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I mean the words in the song need work,” Spike explained.

“Well, it is a work in progress,” Sweetie Belle said. “I only have one part so far.”

“It’s a good start anyway,” Scootaloo said.

“How about we work on it together?” Spike suggested.

“Sure, that sounds great.” Sweetie Belle smiled.

Later, Applejack and a healed Caramel trotted up to the clubhouse. They saw that it looked as good as new, refurbished and everything.

“Wow,” Caramel said. “They really fixed the place up.”

“Yeah,” Applejack smiled. “Looks just as good as it did when ah was a filly.” She leaned close to her coltfriend. “‘Member those good ol’ days?”

Caramel, with his cheeks red with an affectionate blush, smiled and nodded his head. “If it has to do with you, odds are I remember it,” the stallion said.

“Ah know,” Applejack smiled. She kissed his cheek.

“Well, uh,” Caramel giggled. “We should see how Spike and the fillies are doing.”

They climbed the ramp leading to the clubhouse. They then heard the fillies singing inside. Spike had helped them with the lyrics of their new theme song and they were practicing singing it.

“They all say that you get your mark,” Sang Sweetie Belle. “When the time is really right~”

“Okay, good, good,” Spike said.

“And ya know, just what yer supposed ta do~” Apple Bloom sang.

“Good, good,” Spike said.

“AnD yOuR tAlEnT cOmEs To LiGhT~!” Scootaloo sang, off-key. Applejack, Caramel, and Spike cringed at her singing.

“Okay,” Spike said. “Lyrics are good, but, you should work on your delivery.”

Apple Bloom looked over and saw Applejack and Caramel at the window. She excitedly let the two in. Applejack tried getting in first, but, found that the door was a bit too small for her now. “Uh-oh,” she said. “Ah don’t think ah can fit through this no more.”

Spike stepped up to help Applejack out of the jam she found herself in. He carefully looked and saw that her backside was outside the door while her front was inside. Her flanks were clearly too wide to squeeze through. “Okay,” Spike said. “I think it’s pretty obvious you’ve outgrown the door here.”

“No kiddin’,” Applejack said. “Ain’t no way mah rump’s squeezin’ through this.”

“Since coming in won’t work,” Spike said. “We’ll have to push you out.”

“Right,” Applejack said. “Go ahead, but, be careful.”

Spike and the fillies tried pushing Applejack out. Unfortunately, the mare was wedged a bit tightly. “Okay, change of plans,” Spike said. “Caramel, go get some soap.”

“On it,” Caramel called. So, he went to grab some soap.

“What’s the soap for?” Scootaloo asked.

“Caramel rubs some on Applejack’s body and she’ll be lubricated enough to slide out more easily,” Spike explained.

“Ah get it,” Apple Bloom said. “Nice thinkin’, Spike.”

“Ah’ll say,” Applejack said. “That’s some real practical thinkin’, sugarcube.”**

A short time later, Caramel returned with the soap. “What now?”

“Rub some on mah body, Caramel,” Applejack said.

Caramel did so. As he did, Applejack kept trying to suppress a few giggles.

“Is Applejack okay?” Spike asked.

“She’s fine,” Apple Bloom said. “She’s just ticklish.”

Applejack’s middle was soon slippery enough for her to be pushed out. While Spike and the fillies pushed her front, Caramel used his teeth to pull on her tail. Soon, she was out with a slight jolt. She sighed in relief. “Thanks, y’all,” she said.

“For future reference,” Spike said. “I think we should make the door a bit bigger so something like this doesn’t happen again.”

“That makes sense,” Apple Bloom said before turning her attention to Applejack and Caramel. “So, like what we did with the place?”

“Ah’ll say,” Applejack said. “Looks as good as it did when ah was a filly.” She glanced at her backside in a bit of embarrassment. “Though, ah guess it can’t really handle the size of mah rump after years o’ apple treats.”

“And,” Caramel said. “We were listening to that song you were singing.”

“It’s our Cutie Mark Crusader theme song,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Theme song, huh?” Applejack asked.

“Yeah,” Spike said. “I’ve been helping them workshop it.”

“That’s mighty nice o’ ya,” Applejack smiled.

“Scootaloo made good lyrics,” Spike said. “But, her delivery needs work.”

“We noticed,” Caramel said. “No offense, Scootaloo.”

“None taken,” Scootaloo said. “My aunts have considered giving me lessons. Nothing’s been decided yet.***”

“Right,” Applejack said. “Well, me n’ Caramel got apples ta pick. See y’all later.”

“See you guys later,” Sweetie Belle said.

After the older ponies left, Spike checked with the fillies. “So, what’s the first order of business?”

“Well,” Scootaloo said. “With our map of Ponyville, we can go to different locations and try different activities.”

“Ah say we try somethin’ at Sweet Apple Acres first,” said Apple Bloom. “Since we’re already there n’ all.”

“That’s a great idea, Apple Bloom,” Sweetie Belle smiled.

“Who made you the leader?” Scootaloo asked Apple Bloom.

“Wait,” Spike said. “This group has a chain of command?”

“Ah was just offerin’ a suggestion is all,” Apple Bloom said. “Ah never said ah was the leader.”

“Yeah,” Sweetie Belle said. “Though, Apple Bloom was the one to come up with the name for our group.”

“I feel like we’re getting off-track,” Spike said.

“Oh, right,” Scootaloo said. “Sorry.”

“We can deal with a chain of command later,” Spike said. “For now, let’s look for something to do.”

“Yeah!” The Cutie Mark Crusaders cheered.

They began with filling the troughs for the pigs. The troughs were loaded with food scraps and slop that the pigs enjoyed. Once the troughs were full, Sweetie Belle rang the bell. Apple Bloom opened a gate and the pigs came running out to enjoy their meal. The fillies checked their flanks for a mark. Nothing was present, much to their disappointment.

“It didn’t work,” Apple Bloom said.

“Bummer,” Scootaloo groaned.

“We’ll have to cross Sweet Apple Acres off,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Sweetie Belle, ya know if Rarity needs any helpin’ hooves at Carousel Boutique?”

“Spike’s here, isn’t he?” Sweetie Belle said.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Spike asked. “I don’t help Rarity all the time.”

“You do sometimes, though,” Scootaloo said. “Besides, others can help Rarity as much as you can, right?”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “Besides, I’m mostly Twilight’s assistant. The only reason I’m not helping her right now is because she insisted I spend more time being a kid.”

“That makes sense,” Apple Bloom said.

“The problem with that is I don’t really know how,” Spike said.

“How exactly do you not know how to be a kid?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“As soon as I first learned to walk,” Spike explained. “Twilight’s started teaching me how to do chores. When I was four, she taught me how to read and write so I could help her with her homework.”

“That’s so sad,” Sweetie Belle said. “No wonder she wants you to spend more time being a kid.”

“But, I don’t understand why,” Spike said. “It feels like she wants me to unlearn everything she taught me.”

“Well, we can help you with that,” Scootaloo said. “We’re kids!”

“Maybe we can help out at Sugarcube Corner,” Apple Bloom suggested.

“That’s a great idea,” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Plus, we might get free candy and treats for our efforts.”

Later, Spike and the fillies reached Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie was busy with a different task, so, Mrs. Cake appointed the three fillies with making taffy.

“So, we put ‘em in the mixin’ bowl?” Apple Bloom asked.

“That’s right,” Mrs Cake smiled.

“We can do that!” Scootaloo said eagerly.

“Don’t hesitate to let me know if you need anything,” Mrs. Cake smiled and she left Spike and the fillies to their work.

Spike collected bricks of taffy in different colors. “This is a lot of taffy,” Spike commented.

“It’s Taffy Season fer Sugarcube Corner,” Apple Bloom said.

“Taffy Season?” Spike asked.

“When they make n’ sell more taffy over their other usual treats,” Apple Bloom said. “It’s a tradition.”

Sweetie Belle sniffed the taffy.

“Mm~” Sweetie Belle smiled. “And this rainbow sherbet flavored taffy smells amazing when it’s being freshly stretched.”

“Let’s get to work,” Scootaloo said..

So, the fillies and Spike loaded the taffy stretcher with the blocks of taffy. Apple Bloom pulled a lever that activated the stretching process. The fillies looked with pride.

Spike, however, noticed that Scootaloo’s tail got a little too close to the stretching taffy. “Uh, Scootaloo?” he said.

“Huh?” Scootaloo answered. “What is it, Spi-IIIIIIIIIKE?!”

The taffy stuck onto Scootaloo’s tail and the machine dragged her in. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle gasped. Spike hurriedly turned off the machine and they helped Scootaloo out.

“Thanks, Spike,” the pegasus filly said. “Now I know how stretching taffy feels.”

“Good thing you were there, Spike,” Sweetie Belle said. “Otherwise, we might’ve gotten pulled in ourselves.”

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Now, did that do anythin’ fer us?”

They checked their flanks.

“Nope,” Scootaloo said down-heartedly.

“We should probably replace all the taffy in the bowl,” Spike said. “Ponies won’t appreciate tail hair in their taffy.”

“Good idea,” Apple Bloom said.

They replaced the taffy just as Mrs. Cake came in.

“Hey, girls. Hello, Spike,” Mrs. Cake smiled. “How’s it going?”

“I got pulled into the bowl,” Scootaloo said. “We’re replacing the taffy.”

“Oh dear,” Mrs. Cake gasped. “You’re not hurt, are you, dearie?”

“No,” Scootaloo said. “Spike turned the machine off just in time.”

“Oh, that’s good,” Mrs. Cake smiled. “That was very mature of you, Spike.”

“I think we should leave before we make a bigger mess,” Spike said.

“Alright, if you’re sure,” Mrs. Cake said patiently. “Thank you for your time anyway.” She even gave them each some silver bits as compensation.

Spike and the fillies left and Spike crossed off Sugarcube Corner.

“Well, now what?” Scootaloo asked as she cleaned the excess taffy off of herself.

Spike looked over the map. “Maybe we could go to the fields,” he suggested.

“What could we do there?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Well, I could bring a guessing game Twilight and I play on days off,” Spike offered.

“That’s a great idea,” Apple Bloom smiled. “We can play it n’ see if we’re mind readers er somethin’.”

Spike sighed, but, went along with it. He headed to the library. “Twilight,” he said.

“Yes, Spike?” Twilight responded.

“Do you remember where we put that ‘Guess the shape’ game?” he asked.

“It should be on the left shelf in our bedroom,” Twilight said. “Why?”

“I suggested playing it with the crusaders,” he explained.

“Oh, that’s nice,” Twilight smiled. “Have fun with it.”

Spike collected the game and met the fillies at the fields. He set up a rectangular device with buttons on one side and a card display on the other.

“So, how does this game work?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well, there has to be at least two players,” Spike said. “A guesser and a drawer.”

“Ooh, can Ah guess?” Apple Bloom suggested.

“Sure,” Spike said. “You sit on the side of the machine with the buttons.” Apple Bloom did so. “Now, as you can see, each button has a different shape.”

“Yup,” Apple Bloom concurred.

“Now,” Spike explained. “You have to press a button to guess the card that the drawer flipped over.”

“Ah can do that,” Apple Bloom smiled with confidence.

“The drawer,” Spike continued. “Flips over the top card in the deck, but, can’t tell the guesser what they flipped.”

“Sounds easy enough,” Sweetie Belle said. She then flipped over the top card. The shape upon it was a red heart.

“Okay, Apple Bloom,” Spike said. “Take your guess.”

“Hmm,” Apple Bloom said softly. She thought hard and soon made her guess. She pressed the button that had a yellow filled-in circle on it. “Did ah get it?”

“No,” Sweetie Belle said. “How many more turns does she get, Spike?”

“She gets two more turns,” Spike said. “But, if she answered correctly, you and her would’ve been able to swap places.”

“Okay,” Sweetie Belle said. She then flipped over a second card. It showed a blue star.

“Time to guess again, Apple Bloom,” Spike said.

Apple Bloom thought and she pressed the button with the outline of a square.

“Wrong again,” Sweetie Belle said. She then flipped over a third card showing a four-leaf clover.

Apple Bloom thought very hard. She then had the “brilliant” idea to push all of the buttons on the panel. This resulted in the machine throwing all its cards at Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.

“And it looks like Apple Bloom forfeits,” Spike said.

“It had to have been at least one o’ ‘em,” Apple Bloom said.

“You’re only supposed to push one button at a time,” Spike explained. “Pressing all six at once means you give up.”

“Well,” Apple Bloom said, sheepishly. “Ah didn’t know that.”

“How does anypony win at this game?” Scootaloo asked.

“Whoever gets three correct guesses wins****,” Spike said.

“Guess ah’m not cut out to be a mind-reader,” Apple Bloom said.

“That’d be more of a unicorn thing,” Spike said. “Mind-reading is a type of magic and, as you know, earth ponies can’t use magic on their own.”

“So, maybe it was more o’ a Sweetie Belle thing?” Apple Bloom pondered.

“Well,” Spike said. “Twilight told me that unicorns capable of reading minds, or telepaths as they’re called, are extremely rare and typically frowned upon as the ability to read minds is considered an invasion of privacy and rude.”

“Oh,” Apple Bloom said.

“Maybe we should stop trying this before any of us find that out,” Sweetie Belle suggested.

“Good idea,” Spike said.

“So, what now?” Scootaloo said.

“Well, when we passed Carousel Boutique,” Sweetie Belle said. “I saw that Rarity’s dyeing manes.”

“Maybe we could try our hooves at that,” Apple Bloom said.

“Do any of you know anything about dyeing manes?” Spike asked.

“Isn’t it just like painting?” Scootaloo asked. “But, on hair instead of on canvases? What would you know about it, anyway? You don’t even have any hair.”

“Leave him alone,” Sweetie Belle said.

“We can at least try anyway,” Apple Bloom said.

So, they went to Carousel Boutique. Sweetie Belle was promoting the hair-dyeing specialty outside of the boutique to help bring in clients. Spike looked a little nervous, which Rarity noticed.

“I can tell you’re uneasy for them, Spike,” Rarity said.

“Yeah,” Spike said. “I know they want to get their Cutie Marks, but, I’m starting to think they’re going about it the wrong way.”

“Well, Spike,” Rarity said. “The best way to learn from a mistake is to make a mistake. The three are enthusiastic about getting their Cutie Marks and do have the habit of doing things without thinking them through. That happens to a lot of us when we’re young.”

They suddenly heard a mare crying. They turn their attention to see a mare with a rainbow colored afro wig crying and about to run out of the boutique.

“I don’t know what Frou Frou’s problem is,” Scootaloo said. “Rainbow manes are awesome!”

“Her problem, darling,” Rarity said bluntly. “Is that she did not want to look like a circus clown. Did she tell you that she wanted a rainbow mane?”

“She didn’t say she didn’t,” Scootaloo answered.

Rarity groaned lowly and she turned her attention to Frou-Frou. “Don’t worry, Frou-Frou. I have an easy remedy for your mane color, free of charge.”

Frou-Frou sniffled and followed Rarity. “Thank you, Rarity. You’re a lifesaver.”

The crusaders checked their flanks.

“Nothin’,” Apple Bloom said dismally.

Spike crossed off Carousel Boutique and the fields.

“Now what?” Sweetie Bloom said.

“How about rock-climbing?” Scootaloo suggested.

“That sounds excitin’!” Apple Bloom smiled.

Spike sighed and followed the fillies.

They found a patch of rock they could climb. They fastened each other as a chain with some rope. The fillies put in a lot of effort while Spike casually walked up.

“Maybe we need a bigger rock to climb,” Scootaloo said.

“Not a good idea,” Spike said.

“Well, since this takes a lot o’ effort,” Apple Bloom said. “How ‘bout we find something that’s a mite easier?”

“How about scuba diving?” Sweetie Belle suggested. Spike grew nervous.

“What’s wrong?” Scootaloo asked.

“I can’t swim,” Spike said.

“Oh,” Scootaloo said. “Then, you can stay out of the water and keep watch for us. Would that work for you?”

“Okay,” Spike said.

So, the four went to a nearby lake in Ponyville. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo put on scuba diving gear and they swam in the water. Spike, as promised, was on the shore of the same lake. He watched the fillies jump into the water and sat down with his elbows on his knees and his head supported by his hands. “I wish I could do that,” Spike said to himself before letting a single tear come out of his eye.*****

Meanwhile, the three fillies swam through the water, observing the wonders of the deep. They suddenly saw something that made them beat a hasty retreat. It was a lake-inhabiting serpent with four horns sticking out the back of its head and a gem on its forehead******. They came ashore and found Spike looking rather sad.

“What’s wrong, Spike?” Sweetie Belle asked gently.

“I wish I could swim,” Spike said. “I’ve seen ponies do it over the summer since Twilight and I came here and it looked like they were having fun.”

“Well,” Apple Bloom said. “Why don’t ya ask somepony ta teach ya how ta swim?”

“I kept trying,” Spike said. “But, for some reason, I just couldn’t get the words out.”

“Well,” Scootaloo said. “Maybe we could teach you how to swim.” She looked back at the lake. “Just not in that lake.”

“We can ask Twilight if she’s okay with it,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Let’s go over n’ see her. It’s gettin’ late anyhow.”

Spike and the fillies arrived at the Golden Oak Library, where Twilight was waiting.

“Hi, everyone,” Twilight smiled. “How was your day?”

“Well,” Scootaloo said. “We didn’t get our Cutie Marks.”

“But,” Sweetie Belle said. “We’re going to teach Spike how to swim since he wants to learn how. Is it okay if we help him learn how to swim, Twilight?”

Twilight turned to face Spike. “Spike,” she said. “I didn’t know you were interested in learning how to swim. Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Well, I wanted to,” Spike said. “But, for some reason, I couldn’t get the words out.”

“Well, if you’re that keen on the idea,” Twilight smiled. “Then, I’ll allow the girls to teach you.”

“Really?!” Spike said with his tail comically wagging like a dog’s.

“But, I want to be the one supervising,” Twilight said. Spike tightly embraced Twilight.

“Oh, thank you, Twilight!” Spike exclaimed happily. “Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

“Maybe we’ll get our Cutie Marks in being swim instructors,” Sweetie Belle said. This was a poor choice of words, though, as Spike turned to face the crusaders.

“Really?” he asked. “Really?! Is getting your Cutie Marks all you care about?!”

“Well,” Scootaloo said. “We did come together in the hopes that we’d get ours, but-”

Twilight could tell that the situation was escalating and quickly stepped in. “Now, now, girls,” she said. “I think you’re going about this all wrong. Instead of trying things in areas you’re not familiar with, maybe you should try practicing what you’re already good at.” She then noticed that Spike wasn’t any happier for taking the crusaders’ side and quickly corrected herself. “And maybe when you’re teaching Spike to swim, try not to make it about you and getting your marks. Focus more on helping him fulfill his own dream, please.” Twilight then rubbed Spike’s left cheek gently with a smile on her face. This made Spike feel much better. “Consider how he feels. How would you like it if he used your quest to get your marks as an excuse to get gems?”

The crusaders took words to heart. They realized they wouldn’t like it and felt guilty about considering using teaching him to swim as an excuse to fulfill their own dreams.

“Yeah, you’re right, Twilight,” Sweetie Belle said. “I’m sorry, Spike. I should have kept that idea to myself.” She nuzzled his left cheek. “When we’re teaching you to swim, we’ll focus on teaching you to swim. I promise.”

“Thank you,” Spike smiled, feeling much better.

“Ah promise, too,” Apple Bloom said.

“And I promise, too,” Scootaloo said.

“I think I have a way to help you remember your promise,” Twilight said.

“How?” the fillies asked.

Twilight levitated them each a tube of emerald green paint. “This is waterproof paint,” Twilight said. “It’s emerald green, Spike’s favorite color. Paint some of it on your swimgear so that when you see it, you’ll remember that you’re teaching Spike to swim for his sake and your Cutie Marks are irrelevant.”

They put the tubes of paint in their saddlebags.

“Thanks, Twilight,” the fillies said.

“We better head back,” Apple Bloom said.

“We’ll see you guys later,” Scootaloo smiled.

“Bye,” Sweetie Belle said.

So, the three fillies headed home while Twilight and Spike took care of their responsibilities in the Golden Oak Library.

The next day, the trio of fillies met up back at the clubhouse after school.

“So, we’re all agreed?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Yeah, we are!” Scootaloo said excitedly.

“Uh,” Sweetie Belle said. “Agreed on what?”

“Askin’ Spike ta help prepare our act fer the talent show!” Apple Bloom said. “We talked about it on the way here from school!”

“I knew that,” Sweetie Belle said with an embarrassed blush. “But, the poster says only students of the school can participate. Spike’s not a student.”

“True,” Apple Bloom said. “But, Miss Cheerilee said that he could still help us out behind the scenes.”

“Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “This will be a way for him to socialize with foals who are around his age.”

“Well, let’s go,” Sweetie Belle said.

So, the three fillies went over to the Golden Oak Library. Apple Bloom politely knocked on the front door. Spike answered.

“Hey, girls,” Spike said. “How was school?”

“Oh, it was fine,” Apple Bloom said. “We found somethin’ we’d like help with.” She pulled the poster for the talent show out of her saddle bag.

“The Ponyville Schoolhouse Talent Show?” Spike said, reading the poster aloud. “How can I help with this? It says non-students can’t enter.”

“Miss Cheerilee said you could help behind the scenes,” Scootaloo said.

“I could?” Spike said, getting excited. “Well, I’ll do my best!” He then realized something. “Wait, I’ll need Twilight’s permission first.”

“Oh, right,” Sweetie Belle said. “Go ahead and ask her.”

Spike went to ask Twilight, who was reading a book intently. “Uh, Twilight?”

Twilight heard Spike’s voice and she set her book down, focusing her attention on the drake. “Yes, Spike?”

“The crusaders are asking me to help them with the talent show at school,” he said. “Can I?”

“Of course, Spike,” Twilight smiled. “Have fun with that.”

“Thanks, Twilight!” Spike said.

“You’re very welcome, Spike,” Twilight smiled. “Stay safe and make sure you’re home before dinnertime, please.”

Spike saluted and went to the crusaders. “She said I can help!”

“Yay!” The CMCs cheered happily. They then led him back to their clubhouse. Along the way, they stopped for supplies for their act.

“So, what are you planning on doing for the show?” Spike asked.

“We’re going to perform our theme song as an epic rock ballad!” Scootaloo exclaimed eagerly.

“Maybe we’ll find out what our hidden talents are,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Uh, you’re kind of missing the point here,” Spike said. “A talent show isn’t about learning new talents. It’s about showing the talents you already have.”

“How do we do that?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Well, Sweetie Belle’s a great singer,” Spike said. “Apple Bloom’s pretty skilled with construction and design, and there’s Scootaloo with her scooter and dancing.”

“So, you’re saying if we did things that way,” Scootaloo said, thinking aloud. “We could win the talent show?”

“Exactly,” Spike said. “But, I wouldn’t recommend trying one of your other crusaders’ talents. We all know that Scootaloo’s not exactly the best when it comes to singing.”

Scootaloo just blushed sheepishly at the remark. “My aunts said they’ll sign me up for singing lessons next week.”

“And Sweetie Belle isn’t as good with fashion as her sister,” Spike said.

“What about the capes I made?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Well, those were good,” Spike admitted. “Though, the patches did have telltale stitches that a professional would hide.”

“Oh, right,” Sweetie Belle said.

“N’ whenever ah dance, it’s like ah have three left hooves,” Apple Bloom said.

“Right,” Spike said somewhat bluntly. He then had a more lighthearted voice as he asked. “So, are you guys ready to do this thing?”

“I certainly am,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Same here,” Apple Bloom said.

“Ditto,” Scootaloo said.

“Maybe ya can help all three o’ us,” Apple Bloom suggested. “Me with props n’ costumes, Sweetie Belle with lyrics, n’ Scootaloo with the… uh… what’s it called when dances’re planned out?”

“Choreography?” Spike said.

“That’s it,” Apple Bloom smiled. “Core-eh-ah-ger-ffy.”

“Eh, close enough,” Spike said. “Though, I can’t help you all at once. I’m only one dragon.”

“That makes sense,” Sweetie Belle said. “We’ll try and manage as best we can.”

“Sounds good,” Spike smiled.

Spike started by helping out Apple Bloom designing the props. While Apple Bloom was painting the scenery, she made sure to wash her brushes before switching to a new color. In a slight slip of her mind, Apple Bloom painted something on Spike’s hip.

“Oops!” Apple Bloom yelped in surprise. “Sorry, Spike!”

“It’s okay,” Spike said as he wiped the paint off. “I’ll go see if Sweetie Belle needs help.”

“Okay,” Apple Bloom smiled. “See ya later.”

Spike headed to Sweetie Belle. The unicorn filly was warming up her vocals.

“Okay, let’s see if I got this,” she said. She cleared her throat a little bit and she began to sing.

“So the three of us fight the fight
There is nothing that we fear~
We’ll have to figure out what we’ll do next
Till our Cutie Marks are here~”

“Not bad, Sweetie Belle,” Spike said.

“Thanks,” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Although, I’m a little bit nervous about singing in front of the crowd. I never did that before.”

“Ah, stage fright,” Spike said. “I can relate.”

“So,” Sweetie Belle said. “How do I make sure I don’t get nervous?”

“Well, Shining Armor taught me a little trick,” Spike said. “Whenever you start worrying about looking silly, imagine everypony else looking silly.”

“Everypony looking silly, huh?” Sweetie Belle said. “Hmm… I think I can give that a try. Thanks, Spike.”

“You’re welcome,” Spike said. “I’ll go check on Scootaloo.”

“Okay,” Sweetie Belle smiled.

Spike went over to Scootaloo. The pegasus filly was stretching to keep herself limber. “Stretching?” he asked.

“Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “I don’t want to accidentally pull a muscle while dancing.”

“Good call,” Spike said. “Shining Armor told me that pulled muscles are not fun.”

“Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “So, I think at one point, I could dance like this.”

And she demonstrated an impressive spin while she was on her right front leg. Spike gave an impressed whistle.

“Way to go,” he said.

“Thanks, Spike,” Scootaloo smiled. “Where should I put this move?”

Spike thought about it. “Hmm,” he said. “Maybe somewhere in the middle? I’m not sure, honestly. I’m not really a dancer. I’m kind of clumsy.”

“That’s okay,” Scootaloo said. “I do appreciate the advice, though. Maybe I can teach you some dance moves as payback.”

“Really?” Spike asked.

“Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “If you’re up for it, that is. And if it’s okay with Twilight.”

Later, Applejack and Caramel were making their way to the clubhouse.

“Ah wonder how they’re doin’,” Applejack said.

“We’ll just have to find out, won’t we?” said Caramel.

“Ah ain’t goin’ inside, though,” Applejack said. “Not unless they made the door bigger.”

So, they went up the ramp and peeked through the window. The fillies were practicing their choreography while Spike watched. Applejack and Caramel were amazed with their progress.

“Well, ah’ll be,” the mare said.

“Spike’s really helpful,” Caramel smiled.

Their voices caught the attention of the fillies and Spike. Apple Bloom smiled and opened the window. This served as a compromise so that they could still hear each other without anypony getting stuck between the door frames.

“Did ya see our practice?” she asked.

“We did,” Applejack smiled. “Y’all are doin’ great!”

“Good to see Spike helping you with your dancing,” Caramel said.

“Uh, actually,” Spike confessed. “That was mostly Scootaloo.”

“Yeah,” Scootaloo said, modestly. “But, he did allow me to help with his dancing skills.”

Applejack noticed that Spike was hugging his tail against his body and knew him well enough to know that that was a nervous habit of his.

“What’s the matter, Spike?” Applejack asked.

“Well…” Spike said as he stroked his tail. “I’m not sure I’ll be very good at dancing. I’m kind of clumsy.”

“Aww, that’s okay, Spike,” Applejack smiled. “Ya don’t have ta be good at somethin’ right away. The important thang ah learned about dancing is that ya got ta have fun with it.”

Spike was surprised and let go of his tail. “You know how to dance?”

“Mostly square dancin’,” Applejack said. “Usually, I like ta dance with family members er with my pals at a party.” She put a hoof around Caramel. “Long as it’s with mah stallion, ah’m happy.”

Caramel blushed happily.

Later that night, the talent show began. The first act was Snips and Snails putting on a magic act. To save face, Puppy Dog Tails was watching from backstage.

“Please,” Tails said quietly. “Try to remember what I taught you.”

“And, when I lift this hat,” Snips projected. “The rabbit will disappear. But, something yummy will appear in its place.”

So far, so good, Tails said internally. Why do I still have this nagging feeling that something—

Snips lifted the top hat, but, nothing was there. “Huh?” Snips said. “Where are the—”

He saw Snails eating some carrots. Tails could only facehoof. And there it is.

“Snails!” Snips exclaimed. “Those carrots were for our magic trick!” He chased his taller brother off the stage. The audience couldn’t help but laugh, but, they applauded anyway.

Backstage, Twist was getting ready to take her turn next.

“I hope everypony liketh my danth number,” Twist smiled happily.

The haughty laughter of Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon could be heard. Twist tried not to let the laughter bug her. “We’re sure to win,” the pink earth filly said. “We’ll be real show stoppers.”*******

“Yeah,” Scootaloo muttered under her breath. “You’ll stop the show before your act.”

“Shows how much you know, Blank Flank,” Silver Spoon said mockingly.

Tails sensed an opportunity to turn the tables. “You know,” he said to the snobby duo. “In the theater, it’s bad luck to say good luck. So, by insulting them, you’re actually complimenting them.”

“Oh, really~?” Diamond Tiara said, falling for Puppy Dog Tails’ trick. She and Silver Spoon then turned their attention to the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “You three are going to do great!”

“Yeah!” Silver Spoon said. “You guys are going to make history with your act~!”

Tails silently snickered to himself as Miss Cheerilee announced Twist to be next.

“And now,” Miss Cheerilee announced. “Dancing to a selection from ‘My Fair Mare,’ please give a warm welcoming stomp to Twist!”

Twist walked onto the stage. Sweetie Belle called out supportively to her.

“Break a leg, Twist!” Sweetie Belle called.

Apple Bloom was surprised. “Is what Tails said true?” she asked.

“Not all of it,” Sweetie Belle said, whispering so Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon couldn’t hear. “For the stage, it is bad luck to say ‘Good luck.’ But, that thing about insulting someone as a compliment isn’t true. Instead of saying, ‘good luck,’ performers encourage others to ‘break a leg.’”

“Then, why did he say it in a way that made it sound like it was?” Scootaloo asked.

“Knowin’ him,” Apple Bloom said. “It’s ta mess with ‘em.”

The three couldn’t help but giggle amongst themselves. A short time later, Twist had finished her act and the audience applauded. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were preparing for their act since they were next. They waited for Miss Cheerilee to announce them.

“The audience is going to love this,” Diamond Tiara smirked.

“And now,” Miss Cheerilee said. “We present Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, performing the… dance of flyers? What?”

The two fillies waltzed onto the stage with their heads held high. They each carried a stack of paper on their backs. Silver Spoon set down an electric keyboard close by her and she began to play a ditty on it.

“Legend tells of a stallion named Filthy Rich~” Diamond Tiara narrated as she passed flyers out.

“Wait a minute,” Miss Cheerilee said as she began to suspect something. She picked up one of the flyers and looked it over.

Meanwhile, Diamond Tiara continued her routine.

“So,” Diamond Tiara narrated. “You’ll be sure to get a good deal on all of the necessities you need, only when you invest with Filthy Rich.”

“Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon are disqualified,” Miss Cheerilee said. The audience gasped at this. The two fillies on stage were flabbergasted.

“What?!” Diamond Tiara gasped. “Impossible!”

“This is an act of corporate advertisement,” Miss Cheerilee said. “Which does not count as talent.”

The two fillies groan with exasperation and march themselves off of the stage in a huff. They see Tails laughing heartily. They were too embarrassed to even talk back to him.

Backstage, the Cutie Mark Crusaders took deep breaths. They were to go on after Peachy Pie and Sunny Daze.

“One more act and it’s our turn,” Apple Bloom said.

“I’m still feeling a little nervous about singing in front of a crowd,” Sweetie Belle said. “Though, I have to remember the advice Spike gave me.”

“What advice was that?” Scootaloo asked.

Sweetie Belle tried to remember what Spike told her. “Um…” Sweetie Belle began. “Was it, ‘If you’re worried about the audience doing something silly, be silly?’ Wait, that’s not right. Was it, ‘If you’re worried about the audience booing you, you should boo the audience?’ No, that wasn’t it, either. Was it-” She groaned in frustration. “Oh, I can’t remember what he said!”

“It’s goin’ ta be okay, Sweetie Belle,” Apple Bloom said comfortingly.

“Yeah,” Scootaloo said supportingly. “Apple Bloom and I are right with you. We got this together.”

While they were talking, Sunny Daze and Peachy Pie finished their act.

“Looks like we’re up next,” Sweetie Belle said. “We just have to do our best is all.” She took a deep breath.

“And now,” Cheerilee announced. “The grand finale. Please give it up for Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo as the Cutie Mark Crusaders, performing an original song.”

The crusaders set up the props and sets. When they were prepared, they put on the instrumental for their song. Sweetie Belle was in the center, Apple Bloom was to her right, and Scootaloo was to her left. With her nerves, though, Sweetie Belle’s singing voice was noticeably different.

“Look here are three little ponies
Ready to sing for this crowd
Listen up, cuz here’s our story
I’m gonna sing it VERY LOUD~!”

The audience cringed at her voice. Applejack, Rarity, Twilight, and Spike watched on nervously. Sweetie Belle continued to sing as Scootaloo started to dance.

“When you’re a younger pony
And your flank is very bare~”

Apple Bloom snuck backstage and pulled on a rope. The rope had a sun prop that she painted to help with the performance.

“Feels like the sun will never come
When your Cutie Mark’s not there~
So, the three of us fight the fight!”

On the last three words, Scootaloo did some fighting-like dance moves. Apple Bloom then prepared to release some ropes showcasing props of spiders and ghosts.

“There is nothing that we fear~
We’ll have to figure out what we’ll do next
Till our Cutie Marks are here~!”

The three fillies then began to sing together.

“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~”

Scootaloo’s singing didn’t really enhance the performance. Over time, however, Sweetie Belle began to get more comfortable with singing.

“They all say that you’ll get your mark
When the time is really right
And you know just what you’re supposed to do
And your talent comes to light~
But it’s not as easy as it sounds
And that waiting’s hard to do~
So we test our talents everywhere
Until our faces turn blue~!”

Apple Bloom used a blue spotlight on Sweetie Belle’s face. Apple Bloom made her way back to the stage and the three began to sing together again.

“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~
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~!”

They looked at the audience nervously. The audience were silent for a moment before they stomped their hooves and applauded the three fillies. Hearing the audience applaud made the three fillies smile.

“This is looking promising,” Sweetie Belle said.

“We’ll see what happens, though,” Scootaloo said.

Later, the contestants were lined up on stage.

“And now,” Miss Cheerilee announced. “For the prizes for best acts. Our first award goes to Snips and Snails for Best Magic Act. Granted, it was the only magic act tonight, but, still. Congratulations.”

The two were given medals depicting a magician's top hat.

“We’d just like to thank our brother, Puppy Dog Tails,” Snails said proudly.

“Without his help,” Snips said happily. “None of this would be possible. Can he have a medal, too?”

“Certainly,” Miss Cheerilee said. “As he supervised you during your act, he technically participated.”

“Thanks, Miss Cheerilee,” Snips and Snails smiled.

Tails stepped up to accept the medal. The audience applauded for all three of the colts.

“For once, I’m actually glad to be your brother,” Tails said.

“The next award goes to Twist,” Miss Cheerilee smiled. “For Best Dance Act.”

Twist was awarded a medal depicting a pony ballerina.

“Thank you tho much!” Twist happily lisped. “Thith ith for you, Big Thithter!” Bon Bon waved to her little sister from the audience.

“Way to go, Twist!” Bon Bon smiled. The audience cheered for Twist.

“The next award goes to Sunny Daze and Peachy Pie,” Miss Cheerilee continued. “For Best Dramatic Act.”

The two are given medals depicting theatrical masks.

“Thank you, Miss Cheerilee!” Sunny smiled.

“This was so much fun!” Peachy smiled.

Diamond Tiara looked sourly at Tails. “You said it was bad luck to say good luck in the theater,” she accused.

“I said it was bad luck,” Tails said smugly. “I didn’t say for who.”

“And the last award goes to,” Miss Cheerilee announced. “The Cutie Mark Crusaders!”

The Crusaders stepped up.

“I don’t understand,” Sweetie Belle said confused. “Why did we get an award? Weren’t we terrible?”

“You get the award for best comedy act,” she said.

“Well,” Scootaloo said. “We hadn’t planned on this act being a comedy one, but, we’ll take it.”

They were given medals depicting a jester’s hat and went backstage.

“Well, it may not be what we were expectin’,” Apple Bloom said. “But, we at least got a prize.”

They removed their costumes to see if they got their marks. Unfortunately, their flanks were still bare. This left the three feeling disappointed. Spike and Twilight stepped up.

“Hey, girls,” Twilight smiled. “You guys were great up there. Did you have fun?”

“Yeah…” the fillies responded with barely any emotion. Spike noticed.

“What’s wrong?” Spike asked.

“We worked so hard and we still didn’t get our Cutie Marks,” Sweetie Belle said. “I know you said that we shouldn’t do things just because that’s what we want to do, but, we can’t help but yearn for them.”

“Well,” Spike said. “I think the problem is that you tried too hard.”

“What do ya mean, Spike?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Well,” Spike explained. “For starters, you tried forcing yourselves to do things that aren’t meant for you.”

“But, you told us to do the things that were more comfortable for us,” Scootaloo said.

“I meant before that,” Spike said. “Although, Sweetie Belle was having a bit of difficulty singing despite her talent.”

“Yeah,” Sweetie Belle said. “And I completely forgot the advice that you gave me. Nerves got the better of me.”

“And that’s something for you to work on,” Spike said. “Just keep practicing.”

“Yeah,” Twilight said. “Still, you three have each other and you have all the time in the world to figure out who you really are.”

“All you need is a little patience,” Spike said.

This made the fillies feel a little bit better.

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Y’all’re right.”

“Still,” Scootaloo said. “As long as we don’t have Cutie Marks, Diamond Tiara will keep picking on us.”

“You’re really worrying about what they say?” Spike asked, incredulously. “They thought advertising a company is a legitimate talent.”

“Besides,” Twilight said. “Do you three even like Diamond Tiara?”

“No,” they answered at the same time.

“Then, you shouldn’t take her words with any seriousness,” Twilight said. “It’s okay to be kind to her, but, if she’s not saying kind things to you, don’t listen to them. If she does put in the effort to be kind to you girls and you do grow to like her, that’s okay. But, for now, you should focus on the ones who do care about you and the ones you care about in return.”

“If she keeps giving you trouble,” Spike said. “Ignore her and let her own ego be her undoing.”

“Yeah, that’s a good idea,” Scootaloo smiled. “Thanks, guys.”

End of Chapter.

Chapter 19: A Dog and Pony Show (S1:E19)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Chapter 19: A Dog and Pony Show

It had been two days since the talent show. On that particular day, Rarity was putting gems on a garment she was making.

“There we go,” Rarity smiled. “Coming along just nicely, I would say.” She suddenly heard the bell at her door ring. “Ah, sounds like I’ve got a customer.” Rarity waltzed out of her workroom to greet the newcomer. “Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where our looks are chic, unique, and magnifique. How may I help you today?”

But, when the unicorn saw who her newest customer was, she gasped and nearly fainted right on the spot. Standing before her was an earth pony mare of medium build that sported a pale, light grayish gold coat. She had a light brilliant cobalt blue-colored mane and tail with light brilliant azure stripes to compliment it. Her eyes were a light brilliant amber that shone like gold. She had pale, light grayish blue violet eye shadow and wore a white dress with purple, blue, and yellow decorating various parts of it (said dress obscuring her Cutie Mark depicting a sapphired seashell below three stars in the process).

“Y-you’re Sapphire Shores~!” Rarity gasped with amazement. It was clear that she was a fan of Sapphire Shores’ music. “I-I can’t believe it! The Sapphire Shores in my boutique!”

The earth mare nodded in confirmation. “That’s me, alright,” she said. “Good afternoon, Miss Rarity. How are we today?”

Rarity almost squealed with delight from the excitement. “Y-you know my name?!” Rarity asked.

Sapphire Shores happily nodded. "Why of course I do, darling. I make it a point to know all of the up-and-coming designers and Clothes Horse magazine simply raved about you. Besides, anypony who could get Hoity Toity to feature their works in his boutiques has to be worth checking out."

Rarity couldn’t help but feel gleeful with Sapphire’s compliments, but, she cleared her throat and regained her composure. “So, how may I help you today, Miss Shores?”

“Please,” the earth mare said. “Call me Sapphire.”

Rarity squeaked to herself eagerly, but, she regained her composure again. “Well… Sapphire, how may I help you today?”

The pop star quickly explained to Rarity. "I guess you haven't heard yet, then again, it was just recently announced: I'm going to be touring all of Equestria to promote my newest album. The concerts are going by the name of: Sapphire Shores' Ziegfilly Follies, so, that means I need to look absolutely sensational!"

“If you’re looking to be sensational,” Rarity said. “Perhaps my newest creation can help you with that.” She then used her magic to reveal said creation. "Behold: The pièce de résistance de la haute couture! I haven't even given it a proper name yet. But, I used every last gem I had on me to complete it."

To say Sapphire was impressed would be a gross understatement. “Why, Miss Rarity~! This is absolutely perfect! I’ll take it!”

“Really?!” Rarity said in hopeful excitement.

“Why, yes~” Sapphire smiled. “And five more, please, each done up in a different jewel.”

Rarity blinked nervously, unsure if she heard correctly. “Beg pardon?”

“It’ll be for the costume changes, of course,” Sapphire explained. “I apologize if that sounds like a lot of work, but, I can tell that you’re a capable seamstress. My tour is going to be starting at some point this week, but, I’m putting my faith in you, Miss Rarity.”

"But... but..." Rarity stuttered and feeling light headed she suddenly fainted right on the spot.

“Oh, dear!” Sapphire gasped. “I think it was too much trouble for her.” She then noticed an empty open chest labeled “gem storage,” as Rarity came to.

“I’ll have to go on a gem hunt,” the unicorn said. “Are there any particular gems you’re looking for in your ensembles?”

“Tell you what,” the earth mare offered. “At least one has to have sapphires. You can pick the rest. Surprise me.”

“You can count on me, Sapphire,” Rarity smiled. “Well, myself and a dear friend of mine.”

“Oh?” Sapphire asked curiously. “Who’s this friend?”

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you,” Rarity said, deciding not to mention the friend she had in mind. “I’ll go get him. I’ll try to have your order done before long.”

“Thank you very much, Rarity,” Sapphire smiled. “We’ll meet up another time and discuss the payment.”

At the Golden Oak Library, Spike and Twilight are playing a game of Go Fish with both down to one card each.

“Do you have any twos?” Spike asked.

“Go Fish,” Twilight said. Spike drew a card, which wasn’t what he was looking for. “Any queens?”

Spike sighed reluctantly and gave her the card he drew. “You win…” he said.

“It was a good game, Spike,” Twilight said comfortingly. “Want to play a different game?”

Before Spike could answer, there was a knock at the door. “I’ll get it.” He got up and went to answer the door. To his surprise, it was Rarity. “Rarity? What brings you here?”

“I need to speak to Twilight,” Rarity said.

“Oh, sure,” Spike said as he stepped aside. “Please, come in.”

Rarity stepped into the library. “Twilight, are you here?”

“Yes, I’m here,” Twilight said. “This is a surprise. What’s up?”

“Are either of you familiar with Sapphire Shores?” Rarity asked.

“Sapphire Shores?!” Spike gasped excitedly.

“The Pony of Pop?!” Twilight gasped excitedly as well.

“The very same,” Rarity confirmed. “She was in my boutique earlier and commissioned me to make five dresses like the one I finished this morning.”

“Wow,” Twilight said. “That is exciting! And with her upcoming tour through all of Equestria, all sorts of ponies can see your work!”

“Yes, well, unfortunately, I have a slight problem,” Rarity said.

“What’s that?” Twilight asked.

“The dresses are all to be encrusted in gems,” Rarity explained. “And I used up the last of the ones I had making the one from this morning.”

“Ah, I see,” Twilight said. She then had a thought. “Did you come to ask me permission to take Spike gem-collecting with you for the other ensembles?”

“If it’s alright with you,” Rarity said. “Rest assured, I have every intention of compensating him for his work.”

“Well,” Twilight said. “We didn’t really have many plans today since we were just playing some games before you came here. So, I don’t have any objections if you took Spike with you. What do you think, Spike?”

Spike was about to answer when his stomach growled. “Well,” he said in embarrassment. “I did run out of gems to eat this morning.”

“It seems I had perfect timing, then,” Rarity said.

“Alright,” Twilight smiled. “Make sure to have Spike back home before sunset please.”

“Of course,” Rarity said. “This shouldn’t take more than an hour or two.”

“Thank you,” Twilight smiled. “Have fun, you two. And be safe.”

Spike got his wagon and Rarity led him to a field out of town. They were soon at a rocky part of the field close to a mountain range. They weren’t high enough up the mountain for Spike to feel cold. Rarity’s horn was alight. Spike recalled that that was how Rarity finds gems.

“It must be a real honor to be commissioned by Sapphire Shores,” Spike said. “She’s part of the reason sapphires are my second favorite gem.”

“I admit it did feel exciting to see her enter my boutique,” Rarity smiled. “But, I’m mostly glad that you and I are spending time together here.”

“Same,” Spike said. “Have I mentioned that when Twilight and I first came to Ponyville, I was intimidated by you?”

“I do recall you mentioning that,” Rarity said. “Care to explain why?”

“Well,” Spike said. “I was afraid you’d be just like those elitists in Canterlot who looked down on me just because I’m a dragon.”

“You certainly don’t have to worry about that with me,” Rarity said. “Just because you’re a dragon, it doesn’t mean you don’t have feelings as I or any pony does. I was born and raised in Ponyville and while I like things on the fancier side, that certainly doesn’t make me any better than anyone else. Personally, from your description, I find those ponies of such predilections repulsive.” Rarity meant that, but, a part of her suspected they were exaggerations. Though, she wisely decided to keep her suspicions to herself.

Spike smiled at this. “Thanks, Rarity,” he said. “I needed to hear that.”

“I’ll mark areas for you to dig, Spike,” Rarity said.

“Sounds good,” Spike nodded. Rarity marked an x in the dirt with her hoof. Spike saw the x and he dug at that spot. He found assorted gems inside. His mouth started watering. “Wow~ they look like they would be so good~!” He scooped up the gems and sniffed them individually. Rarity had seen him doing that on previous gem hunts, but, never understood why.

“Spike,” Rarity asked. “I’m curious, what do you do that for?”

“Do what?” Spike asked innocently.

“You're sniffing the gems individually,” Rarity clarified. “I was wondering why you do that.”

“Oh,” Spike said. “Well, I’m sniffing them to see if they’re magically active. None of these are.”

Rarity assumed that magically active gems had a better taste to him and decided to leave it at that. “Thank you for telling me,” Rarity smiled. “Now, just put them in the wagon. We’ll need more for the dresses.

“You got it,” Spike smiled. He put the gems in the wagon. Rarity’s horn lit up again.

So the two friends continued to look for various gems. Unbeknownst to them, however, was that some creatures were watching them work.

Soon, they’d amassed a veritable pile of gems that Spike drooled over.

“Thank you so much for your help, Spike,” Rarity smiled as she patted his head. “These are certain to add some sparkle to Sapphire Shores’ costume changes.” Spike’s stomach growled again. “Well, you’ve been very patient, Spike. For that, you get the finest reward.”

“What’s that?” Spike asked eagerly. Rarity levitated a blue gem from the pile.

“I know it’s not an emerald,” Rarity said. “But, it is the biggest sapphire we collected. I hope you appreciate it.”

Spike’s eyes seemed to sparkle with amazement. It was truly a gem unlike any he had seen before. He felt touched that Rarity was giving it to him. Just as he was about to taste it, he suddenly stopped himself. Rarity noticed this.

“Is something the matter, Spike?” she asked. “You seemed rather hungry moments ago.”

“I don’t know why,” Spike said. “But, for some reason, I don’t feel that hungry right now. It feels like I just ate a jewel salad.”

“Ah, alright, if you’re certain,” Rarity said. “Well, we’ll have to get you back to Twilight. We still have plenty of time before sunset, but, I can’t let her worry about you.” Suddenly, her horn lit up again. “Oh!”

“More?” Spike said.

“There must be, Spike,” Rarity said. “We do have a choice here. Should we either find this patch of gems or should we leave it and get you home?”

“Well,” Spike said. “How about we find the patch so you’ll have extra? Like you said, we have plenty of time.”

“Alright,” Rarity said. “Follow me, please.”

Spike obediently followed with the wagon in tow. As they walked towards this patch, the ones who had been observing them were still keeping close yet creepy vigil on them.

“All those gems,” one voice said.

“Precious gems indeed,” a second voice said. “And that little dragon is one of the gem hunters.”

“The unicorn finds them,” a third voice said. “And the dragon digs them up. We should take both.”

The three chuckled wickedly to themselves.

Spike added the new gems to the pile.

“Well done, Spike,” Rarity smiled. “Now that that’s sorted out, I’ll see you home.” She turned around and saw something shining in the tree. “Hmm? That’s peculiar. Somepony must have left a Hearth’s Warming decoration in that tree.” She went to investigate.

But, it wasn’t a Hearth’s Warming decoration. In fact, what had glimmered was actually a gem hanging on the collar of a canine-like creature. He jumped down from the tree and landed on his hind legs before her. He was a gray-furred creature with piercing green eyes and a red vest. This was one of the creatures that was spying on Rarity and Spike. Rarity was startled. While she was afraid, she did her best to be somewhat polite to the creature.

“Erm,” Rarity stammered. “H-hello there, mister… canine… I am Rarity and this is my friend Spike.”

Spike waved nervously. “Hi?”

“And,” Rarity continued, nervousness still present in her voice. “Who might you be?”

“Name’s Rover,” the creature said. “I’m a Diamond Dog.”

“A-ah~” Rarity said. “That would explain your taste in jewelry. I-I see you’re out hunting for gems like Spike and I were?”

“Yes,” Rover said. “We hunt.”

“‘We?’” Spike asked reluctantly.

His grin growing wider by the second, Rover explained. "Other Diamond Dogs, you'll meet them very soon. For although we hunt for gems, you are a better hunter. So now we hunt... for you!"

Rarity could see where this was going. “Spike, run!” She exclaimed.

Before Spike had a chance to react, he was tackled by another Diamond Dog. This one wore a gray jacket.

“Gotcha!” said the second Diamond Dog.

“Excellent, Fido!” Rover said. “Now, that little runt won’t be a problem!”

“You leave him alone, you ruffian!” Rarity said.

“It is useless to resist~” Rover said intimidatingly. “If you just cooperate, we won’t have to get violent. Show him, Fido!” Fido held Spike by the neck and the little dragon struggled to free himself. “We’ve heard that a dragon’s weak spot is its soft underbelly.” He punctuated the last three words by poking Spike’s stomach. “Want to find out, Fido?”

“Yes, Rover~” Fido sneered deviously as he unsheathed his claws. “These claws can leave marks in solid stone. Let’s see if dragon scales are any different.”

“No, please!” Rarity called. She then sighed heavily and said. “I will comply only if you spare my friend.”

“Alright, Fido,” Rover said. “Muzzle the runt!”

Fido nodded and muzzled Spike with rope. “Another prisoner,” he gloated.

“Spot!” called Rover. “Show our new gem hunters inside!” A smaller Diamond Dog began forcing Rarity forward. Rarity was scared, but, to insure Spike’s safety, she had to keep her word and allowed Spot to show her the way. She looked at Spike and saw he was scared, too.

I can only hope we can find a way out of this unscathed, Rarity thought to herself. Twilight will be so cross at me if Spike isn’t home as I promised he would be. She and Spike were put in a cell.

“Oh, Spike,” Rarity said gloomily. “I am so sorry. If I had known that we would be captured by the Diamond Dogs, I would have never put you in this situation.” Spike made a muffled reply. “I’m sorry, what did you say?” She used her magic to unmuzzle his mouth.

“How will we get out of this, Rarity?” Spike asked.

“I’m afraid I don’t know,” Rarity said sadly. “Hopefully we can figure something out without you getting hurt by the Diamond Dogs. Though, if I had to make a guess, I’d say ‘by the skin of our teeth, dear.’”

“I didn’t know pony teeth had skin,” Spike said.

“Spike,” Rarity responded. “While that was adorable, this is neither the time nor the place to make a cute quip.”

“Sorry,” Spike said. “I was trying to be like Pinkie and lighten the situation.”

“I appreciate that,” Rarity said. She then held onto Spike warmly. “I promise that I’ll get you out of here.”

Back in Ponyville, Twilight was growing increasingly worried. Two hours had passed since Rarity took Spike gem-collecting and they still weren’t back. She was pacing the floor nervously.

“They should have been back by now,” Twilight said to herself. “Something must not be right.” A knock at the door stirred her from her anxiety. “Oh! Coming!”

She opened the door to see Fluttershy. “Hello, Twilight,” she said. “Is it alright if I invite Spike over for tea?”

Hearing Fluttershy say Spike’s name was enough to fill Twilight’s eyes with tears. “I wish I could, Fluttershy, but, Spike isn’t home right now!”

“Is something wrong, Twilight?” the pegasus asked after noticing the tears.

“Rarity had invited Spike to go gem collecting with her hours ago,” Twilight said, trying to dry her eyes. “But, they haven’t come back yet.”

“Oh, my…” Fluttershy said. “I hope they’re okay.”

“So do I, Fluttershy,” Twilight sniffled. She then gained a look of determination. “We’ll have to see for ourselves if they are. Let’s gather up our friends. Rarity and Spike might need our help!”

Back with Spike and Rarity, the unicorn was using her spell to find gems with Spot holding a claw to Spike’s stomach for leverage.

“There are pockets of gemstones here, here, and here,” Rarity explained. She used a stick to draw x’s where the pockets of gemstones are. Spot let Spike go to dig at the x’s. “How long exactly are we going to keep this up?”

“Until we find all the gems!” Rover said.

“So somewhere between not very long,” Spike said, figuring the size of the caverns and caves. “And forever?”

Spot grabbed Spike by the neck. “Who said you could talk, runt?”

“Let him go, please,” Rarity said firmly. “And he is not a runt. His name is Spike.”

“Get back to finding gems!” Rover demanded.

“Only,” Rarity said. “If you give me your word that you will not harm my friend.” She flared up her horn to show she meant business. This caught the Diamond Dogs by surprise. They never expected this sophisticated looking mare to have such a fire in her eyes. So, in order to have their greedy horde filled, they had no choice but to give her their word. “And you’re not to muzzle him,” Rarity asserted.

“Y-yes-” Rover stammered. “Er, no, er. We shall not muzzle him.”

Spike had the rope removed. “Thank you,” Spike said. He then went over to Rarity. “This is a scary situation,” he whispered to her.

“Yes, I know,” Rarity whispered back. “Just stay calm and don’t try to escalate things.”

Spike nodded quietly to her. “I’m guessing my sword is out of the question?” he whispered.

“Absolutely,” Rarity whispered back. “The situation is precarious enough as it is.”

“That’s fair,” Spike whispered. “So, if one or both of us comes up with a plan, we’ll work through it together.”

Spot and Fido pulled out a rusty harness chained to a cart.

“The jewels will be put in here,” Rover said. “The pony will pull the wagon.”

Rarity wasn’t pleased with that arrangement. “I beg your pardon?!”

“Just do what they say, Rarity,” Spike whispered. “We’re in enough trouble already.”

Rarity knew that Spike was right, though, she still didn’t like the idea. “Alright, I’ll do it,” she said at last. “But, I won’t like it.”

The harness was secured tightly to her. She winced and shivered from the cold metal against her body.

“Just go with it,” Spike whispered. “Complaining or whining won’t help our situation.”

Rarity nodded. She took a deep breath, albeit with a slight cough from the disgust of the stench around her and she began to travel slowly while looking for more gems.

After filling a cart, she and Spike were put in another cell.

“Very good,” Fido said with a devious grin. “You are the best gem hunters that we have ever known.” He closed the cell door. “Our buyers will pay handsomely.”

“Buyers?” Rarity asked. “You mean you aren’t keeping these gems for yourselves?”

“What do you think we’d do with them?” Rover said. “Eat them? We’re not dragons.”

“So, if you’re not going to use them,” Spike asked. “Then who is?”

“That’s on a need to know basis,” Rover said. “And you don’t need to know.”

He then left Spike and Rarity alone. The two sighed sadly. Suddenly, a patch of ground started to turn up behind them. “What’s happening, Rarity?” Spike asked.

“I don’t know~!” Rarity answered nervously. “Though I have a feeling it means we’re getting uninvited company.”

From the ground emerged this Diamond Dog:

“Follow me,” the newcomer said.

“Who are you?” Rarity whispered to the stranger.

“That’s not important right now,” the creature said. “Rover will be back soon.”

Rarity and Spike still felt uneasy, but, given the alternative, they decided to follow this newcomer. He seemed more trustworthy than the other Diamond Dogs. They followed him into the tunnel he dug and saw his body in full. The Diamond Dog covered the hole with stones.

“Thank you,” Spike said softly to the Diamond Dog.

“The name’s Bluu,” the Diamond Dog said.

“Thank you, Bluu,” Spike said. “I’m Spike and this is Rarity.”

“I know Rover told you that the gems are for buyers,” Bluu said.

“That’s true,” Rarity said.

“Well,” Bluu said. “That’s one of his tactics for keeping slaves around.”

“So, he was lying?” Spike asked.

“Yep,” Bluu said. “He’s motivated by greed and he rallied like-minded Diamond Dogs. I may be a Diamond Dog, but, I’m not greedy like them.”

“So far,” Rarity said. “We can already tell that you’re not like them. You did help us after all, and we’re very grateful.”

“I have a zero tolerance policy for slave-drivers,” Bluu said. “Especially Rover. He makes slaves and sells them off.”

“That’s terrible,” Spike said.

“That’s why,” Bluu said. “If you see a list of Rover’s enemies, you’ll find my name at the top of the list.”

“I can understand why,” Rarity said.

“This way,” Bluu said.

Meanwhile, Rover came to the cell Rarity and Spike were put in.

“Alright, you two,” he began to say. “Back to-” Before he could finish his sentence, he saw that the cell was empty. “Bluu!” He pounded the ground, sending out tremors.

Underground, Bluu placed a hand against the wall.

“If you don’t mind me asking,” Spike asked. “What are you doing?”

“Rover’s sending a tremorgram,” Bluu said.

Spike and Rarity didn’t understand.

“A tremorgram?” Rarity asked.

“What’s that?” Spike asked.

“We Diamond Dogs are earth elemental creatures,” Bluu explained. “We can sense tremors in the ground most wouldn’t notice. We use this to send messages to each other.”**

“I don’t think I like the idea of what that message is going to translate as,” Rarity said.

“It says, ‘Bluu broke the pony and dragon out,’” Bluu said.

“That must mean,” Spike ventured to guess. “That he’s sending that message to other Diamond Dogs.”

“Then, we don’t have a lot of time,” Bluu said.

So, Bluu picked up the pace a bit, with Rarity and Spike following suit. The two were still uncertain exactly where they were going, but, any place would be better than where the Diamond Dogs had them work. They didn’t want to lose track of Bluu. However, they soon found Rover and his pack breaking through the tunnel roof.

“Look out!” Rarity exclaimed.

Bluu got into a defensive stance.

“I won’t allow you to use these two for your selfish gain!” Bluu growled.

“You’ve interfered one time too many, Bluu!” Rover growled back. “We’ll make sure you never interfere again!”

Bluu grit his teeth and his blue fur turned red and longer and his eyes turned green. An 8-pointed star materialized on his forehead. His hand paws began to glow and pulse with energy. Rarity and Spike saw Bluu’s transformation, captivated by the sight before them.

“Quick, boys!” Rover said. “Trounce him before he fires!”

Fido and Spot prepared to trounce onto Bluu. Bluu was faster, though, firing energy beams at the ground, creating a makeshift smokescreen of earth. Rarity and Spike held onto their muzzles to keep themselves from breathing in the dust. Bluu carried both to safety before the dust settled.

“Are you two alright?” Bluu asked as he reverted to normal.

“We’re fine,” Spike said. “But, what was that thing you did?”

“It’s just something that happens when I channel my anger,” Bluu explained. “I’m sorry if it was a bit unnerving.”

“Can all Diamond Dogs do that?” Rarity asked.

“No,” Bluu answered. “I gained that power from forced labor in an energy gem mine.”

“Oh, my,” Rarity gasped.

“It doesn’t last long,” Bluu explained. “So, I mainly rely on hit and run tactics with it.”

“I see,” Spike said. “Well, the situation you went through to get these powers wasn’t ideal, but, they certainly are beneficial.”

“Now, care to explain what you were doing here in the first place?” Bluu asked.

“Well,” Rarity explained. “Spike and I were out gem collecting. I’m a seamstress in Ponyville and I sometimes use gems in my couture. Since Spike eats gems, I invited him to join me. I was even prepared to let him eat any excess gems as payment for his help.”

Bluu stroked his chin as he listened to Rarity’s words.

“Believe me,” Spike said. “We never expected to meet any Diamond Dogs.”

“I think I might have a solution to your problem,” Bluu said.

“What’s that?” Rarity asked.

“I live in a gem cave not too far from here,” Bluu said. “You can help yourselves.”

“Thank you, Bluu,” Rarity smiled. “Is there anything we can do to repay you?”

“You don’t have to,” Bluu said. “We Diamond Dogs are at home surrounded by gems, but, I have more than I know what to do with.”

“Well, we’re still grateful,” Spike said. “Maybe we can try to come back and if you need our help, we’ll help you.”

Bluu’s ears pricked up. Rarity noticed this.

“What is it?” she asked.

“Rover’s coming,” Bluu said. This caused Rarity and Spike to have alerted looks on their faces.

“What can we do?” Spike asked.

“Follow me,” Bluu said. “I know these tunnels like the back of my paws!”

Bluu ran down the tunnels with Rarity and Spike following behind him. They soon reached a cave full of assorted gems.

“This must be your cave,” Rarity panted, catching her breath. Bluu nodded before moving a round boulder in the way they came in.

“That was too close,” Spike sighed. “Though, what good will that rock do?”

“On the other side is a rune that causes whoever makes contact with it to instantly forget whatever they were doing,***” Bluu explained.

“I see,” Spike smiled. “That’s really clever.”

“It’s how Rover’s pack hasn’t been able to find my cave this long,” Bluu said.

“Ingenious,” Rarity smiled. Then, something occurred to her. “How do you keep the rune from affecting yourself when moving the boulder?”

“I have special magic-proof talismans to protect me from it,” Bluu explained.

“Ah, I see,” Rarity said. “And because we haven’t seen the rune, let alone touched it, we weren’t affected either.” She then looked at all the gems. “Why, this should be more than enough to make six times the dresses Sapphire Shores commissioned!”

“This will fill in my gem pantry for a good long while,” Spike said, his eyes a glow with amazement. Then, something occurred to him. “I don’t think one cart will be enough to move all these.”

“Hold on,” Bluu said. “I still need some to feel at home. I can part with six cartfuls.”

“I understand,” Rarity said compassionately. “Still, thank you for everything.”

“Wait,” Spike said. “Where do we get six carts?”

“Rover’s pack has all the carts,” Bluu said.

“That’s going to be a challenge retrieving them,” Rarity said.

Spike reached into his loose scales and pulled out his sword, which made Bluu reel back.

“I know you said not to use this earlier, Rarity,” Spike said. “But, desperate times do call for desperate measures.”

“That’s a river serpent scale!” Bluu exclaimed.

“Yes,” Rarity said, sensing the nervousness in Bluu’s voice. “Is something the matter?”

“Diamond Dogs and river serpents are natural rivals,” Bluu said. “We’re earth elementals while they’re water elementals. But, river serpent scales can cut through rock, which relates to our element.****”

“Oh, dear,” Rarity gasped.

“Wait,” Spike said. “Does that mean Rover’s pack will have the same reaction to this sword?”

“It’s likely,” Bluu said. “They’re not very bright.”

“Oh, Spike,” Rarity said. “If I had allowed you to use your sword earlier, none of this would be happening.”

“Well, better late than never,” Spike shrugged.

“Now,” Rarity said. “To figure out a safe plan with this.”

“I have a plan,” Bluu said.

“Let’s hear it,” Spike said.

“Hold your sword out,” Bluu said. “You don’t have to attack with it, just make sure the other Diamond Dogs can see it.”

“Got it,” Spike smiled.

Bluu moved the boulder and barked, getting the attention of Rover’s pack.

“There he is!” Rover growled.

“I’m warning you,” Spike said as he held his sword out. “I have a sword made from a river serpent scale!”

At the mention of the last three words, Rover’s pack yelped with shock.

“A river serpent scale?!” Rover cried. “Fido, why didn’t you check to see if he had it?!”

“You didn’t tell me to,” Fido argued.

“Now,” Spike said. “You’re going to back off from us.”

“And give us six of your carts,” Rarity added.

“After that,” Bluu growled. “You must leave these two and myself alone.”

Spike held his sword out.

“If there are any objections to that,” Spike said. “I will use this.”

“Do what they say, boys,” Rover said.

Fido and Spot nodded and they hastened to grab six carts.

Meanwhile, Twilight and her other friends were following the wagon tracks Spike’s wagon left in the ground.

“This is where they typically go,” Twilight said aloud. “Stay close, girls, and keep your eyes open for anything unusual.”

To their surprise, they found Rarity and Spike unharmed. Twilight gasped with a mix of surprise and glee.

“Spike!” Twilight exclaimed. “Rarity! What happened and where have you two been?”

Bluu carried a few gems to one of the six carts.

“Let’s just say in brief,” Rarity said. “That we encountered some unique creatures on our gem-collecting quest.”

“That one’s Bluu,” Spike said.

“We can see that,” Rainbow said. “What’s his name?”

“Bluu is his name, Rainbow,” Spike clarified.

“It’s spelt B-L-U-U, by the way,” Bluu said.

“Oh,” Rainbow said. “Sorry about the confusion.”

“Are you,” Fluttershy asked. “A Diamond Dog?”

“Yes, I am,” Bluu responded. “And you’re a Critter Whisperer, right?”

“You can tell?” Fluttershy asked.

“I am, too,” Bluu said. “It’s part of being an earth elemental.”

“This is incredible,” Fluttershy said with a touch of excitement.

“Could you all be dears and help me transport these gems?” Rarity asked.

“Ya can count on us, Sugarcube,” Applejack smiled.

On the way back, Twilight struck up a conversation.

“If you don’t mind me asking,” she said. “How did you and Spike end up in that situation anyway?”

“We were minding our own business when three Diamond Dogs ambushed us,” Rarity said. “They threatened to cut Spike’s stomach open if I didn’t comply.”

Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow, Fluttershy, and Pinkie all gasped in shock.

“Well, let me at those dirty–” Rainbow started.

“Calm down, Rainbow,” Rarity said. “I managed to keep them in line.”

“Wow, Rarity,” Pinkie said. “You’re really clever.”

“We couldn’t’ve done it without Bluu,” Spike said.

“Spike,” Twilight said. “This adventure that you two went on with Bluu sounds like it would make a good letter to write to Princess Celestia. Do you two feel like you’ve learned something out of this?”

“Just because somepony’s ladylike doesn’t make her weak,” Spike said.

“It should also be worth noting to be grateful for those who help you through a scary situation,” Rarity said. She then had a nervous expression. “Will this experience affect my prospects for taking Spike on future gem hunts?”

“Well,” Twilight said. “I’ll admit that it wasn’t very responsible to keep Spike out longer than promised.” Rarity sighed sadly. “But,” Twilight continued. “What was responsible was promising that Spike would be returned unharmed and following through with it.”

“I would never let anything happen to Spike,” Rarity said.

“Ta Rarity’s credit,” Applejack said. “It ain’t like she was expectin’ them Diamond Dogs ta be out n’ about.”

“True,” Twilight said. “Taking these factors into consideration, I’ll give you another chance, Rarity.”

“Oh, thank you, Twilight,” Rarity smiled. “Truthfully, I’ve been using these gem hunts as a means of bonding with Spike over our mutual appreciation for gems.”

“That makes sense,” Twilight smiled. “And I’m glad you’re not just using him to get gems without getting dirty.”

“Spike never seems to eat the diamonds we collect,” Rarity said, quick to change the subject.

“That’s because I broke my teeth trying once,” Spike said. “All I could taste was blood.”

The ones who weren’t familiar with the story prior to this moment winced at this. That meant Rainbow, Pinkie, Applejack, and Rarity.

“Good thing the princess fixed that,” Twilight said.

“Yeah, it is,” Applejack smiled.

“Wait a minute,” Spike said. “We left my wagon behind!*****”

“Ah can go back n’ grab it right quick,” Applejack offered.

“Thanks, Applejack,” Spike said.

She unfastened herself from the cart she was hauling and went to grab Spike’s wagon. She returned with it and pulled it as well as the cart she was hauling.

“Are you sure it’s not too much trouble to haul both the cart and Spike’s wagon?” Fluttershy asked.

“We earth ponies’re known fer bein’ strong,” Applejack said. “‘Specially us in the Apple Family.”

“Alright,” Fluttershy smiled.

“Since these carts have more than I needed,” Rarity said. “Spike can have the ones in his wagon. Consider it compensation for what transpired.”

“Thanks, Rarity,” Spike smiled. He then looked at the gem she gave directly to him with fondness. I’m never going to eat this one, though, Spike thought to himself. It’s too precious to me.

End of chapter.

Chapter 20: Green Isn't Your Color (S1:E20)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Chapter 20: Green Isn’t Your Color

It had been one week and a day since Spike and Rarity’s encounter with the Diamond Dogs. In that time, May had started and Rainbow had her 18th birthday. At the Ponyville Spa, Fluttershy was sitting in the waiting room reading a magazine. It was about animals.

“Ah,” Fluttershy said to herself. “It’s good to know that Critter Whisperers were available to help keep the animals comfortable.” She then heard the bell at the door ring.

As Fluttershy was reading, Rarity entered the spa. She was wearing a beautifully lavish sunhat. Fluttershy set the magazine down and politely greeted her friend. “Terribly sorry for being late, Fluttershy,” she said.

“That’s alright,” Fluttershy said understandingly. “There’s still plenty of time for us to get our usuals.” When Rarity and Fluttershy grew closer as friends, the two discovered a shared love for getting spa treatments. So, they recently decided to go together on a certain day of the week.

“You wouldn’t believe what happened on the way here,” Rarity said.

“You’ll have to tell me about it during our treatment, please,” Fluttershy said, already engaged with what Rarity had endured.

Rarity explained to the best of her ability as the two ponies enjoyed the spa, though, Aloe seemed to not remember Fluttershy wasn't a unicorn until she offered to trim Fluttershy's horn and discovered she didn't have one. Fluttershy gave a smile as if to say, “It’s okay, an honest mistake.”

“I’m certain you’re familiar with that earth mare from Maremany* named Photo Finish,” Rarity said.

“Somewhat,” Fluttershy said. “I have read about her work before.”

“I ran into her on the way here,” Rarity said.

“Oh, that must have been exciting,” Fluttershy smiled.

“Indeed,” Rarity said. “She took notice of my giant hat and before long she decided she wanted to do a photo shoot at Carousel Boutique later."

“Oh, that’s wonderful,” Fluttershy said excitedly. “That should give other ponies a chance to see your work.”

"Indeed," Rarity replied. "The only problem I have now is that I'll need someone to model for me. Rainbow Dash is out of the question, I doubt I can convince Applejack, Twilight said she was busy, and Pinkie Pie is well Pinkie Pie. So, as much as it pains me to say, I want you to be the model."

“Me?” Fluttershy asked. “Well, knowing about the other mares in our friend group and what they’re up to, I suppose I can help you with this for this one time.”

“Thank you, Fluttershy,” Rarity said. “I promise to make it as quick as possible.”

Fluttershy nodded at the remark. She still wasn’t certain about this, but, she knew she had to do this because she was helping her friend.

After their treatments, Rarity and Fluttershy headed to Carousel Boutique, running into Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie along the way.

“Hey, girls,” Twilight said. “How was your weekly spa session?”

“Oh, it went well,” Rarity said. “I’m just bringing Fluttershy to model for Photo Finish.”

“I take it you’ll be making a new outfit for Fluttershy to model in, Rarity?” Spike asked.

“Indeed,” Rarity said.

“Can I help out?” Spike offered.

“Only if it’s okay with Twilight,” Rarity said. “She did tell me she’s going to be busy for a bit.”

“To tell the truth,” Twilight said. “I’ll be busy watching Spike learn to be a kid. I felt Pinkie should help teach him today.”

“Alright,” Rarity said.

“I guess he can take a break to help you out,” Twilight said. “Just as long as Pinkie and I come along.”

“That’s alright with me,” Rarity said. “You can keep Spike company if he needs a breather and I’m still busy.”

Though wouldn't that mean Twilight is available to model now? Fluttershy thought to herself. But, she decided to carry on so she wouldn't go back on her word.

A bit later, Rarity was fitting Fluttershy in a new design.

“Hmm,” Rarity said softly. “Looks good so far, but, I’ll need just a few more adjustments. Spike, would you be so kind as to grab some pins off of my workdesk?”

“Sure,” Spike said as he went into another room. While he was away, Rarity used her Mystic Eyes to inspect the dress.

“Ooh~” Pinkie squeaked. “Even if it’s just a work in progress, it’s so pretty!”

Meanwhile, Spike was looking for the pincushion. He was looking under the workdesk when his tail bumped one of the legs, disturbing the table and causing the pins to roll off and stick themselves into his back. While he didn’t feel the pins on his back, he did notice them when he walked by a mirror.

“I better—” Spike began before Rarity interrupted him.

“Spike~” Rarity called. “Can you possibly step more lively please? I need the pincushion.”

Not enough time to correct this, Spike thought. I’ll have to go as is. So, Spike hustled over to Rarity, posing as an impromptu pincushion.**

The ponies present saw the pins in his back and Twilight glared at Rarity.

“Rarity~” Twilight said coldly.

“She didn’t put me up to this, Twilight!” Spike said in Rarity’s defense. “My tail bumped into one of the table legs and the pins rolled off and fell onto my back.”

“Why didn’t you use the pincushion?” Rarity asked.

“I was about to grab one,” Spike said. “But, you called me and I didn’t want to keep you waiting.”

Rarity sighed and pulled some pins out. “Next time, explain beforehoof,” Rarity said.

“I will,” Spike said. He then went to Twilight and Pinkie.

“Doesn’t that hurt, Spike?” Pinkie asked.

“I have thick scales on my back,” Spike explained. “I can’t feel anything there. The only way it would hurt is if I had the pins on my underbelly.”

“Like, your privates?” Pinkie asked.

“Well, partially,” Spike said. “Probably don’t say that again, please.”

“Besides, that’s not what underbelly means anyway,” Twilight said. She then gestured to the green on Spike’s stomach. “It means this general area.”

“Oh~” Pinkie said. “Then, isn’t that your tummy?”

“Well,” Spike said. “The terms are synonymous.”

“Oh~” Pinkie said. “That makes sense.” She then poked his stomach. To her surprise, it was rather soft.

Spike held his mouth to save himself from bursting out into fits of laughter so he wouldn’t disturb Rarity. His underbelly was not only sensitive to pain, but, it was also very ticklish.

“Huh,” Pinkie said. “You’d think with all the gems he eats, his tummy would be harder than that.”

“Does your stomach change textures with the food that you eat?” Twilight asked.

“Not really,” Pinkie admitted. “Of course, I don’t eat gems like lover drake here.”

“True, but, still,” Twilight said.

Spike registered the “lover” part of Pinkie’s comment. “Is it that obvious?” he asked.

“Hey,” Pinkie said. “If it’s obvious to me with my shifting attention span, of course it’s obvious to most ponies.”

“Well,” Spike said softly. “Can you promise not to tell Rarity about this? I want to tell her myself in my own time when I’m ready.”

“I’m pretty sure she pieced it together by now,” Twilight said.

“Just look at the shirt you’re wearing,” Pinkie said.

“I’m not wearing a—” Spike began, before looking down to see that he’s wearing a t-shirt with a design depicting a red heart with Rarity’s head in it. A shirt he wasn’t wearing earlier. “Where’d this come from?!”

“My distraction technique strikes again!” Pinkie declared.

“Well,” Spike said, hastily removing the t-shirt. “Just in case she doesn’t, please promise me you won’t tell her.”

“Don’t worry,” Pinkie said. “I Pinkie Pie Promise not to tell Rarity. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!”

“Uh,” Spike said in confusion. “Don’t you mean ‘hope to die?’”

“That’s what makes it a Pinkie Pie Promise,” Pinkie smiled. “I didn’t want to mention death because I feel that’s going too far.”

“But, you’re an earth pony,” Twilight pointed out. “You can’t fly.”

“Exactly,” Pinkie giggled.

“Have you considered the idea of a flying creature making that kind of promise?” Twilight asked.

Pinkie was about to respond, but, the boutique door opened and an Earth mare walked in with her entourage. She had a light blue coat and silverish white mane and tail. She wore a pair of black framed sunglasses with opaque looking purple lenses, and a black dress with hot pink and white accents.

“I, Photo Finish, have arrived~!” announced the mare in a thick accent.

Rarity heard Photo Finish’s voice and turned her attention towards her. “Ah, welcome,” she said excitedly. “I think you’re going to like my newest creation modeled by a dear friend of mine.” She gestured to Fluttershy.

Fluttershy saw Rarity’s motioning and she tried to make a fabulous pose in the ensemble. This was difficult for her to do intentionally. Though, this didn’t sit well with Photo Finish’s unique tastes.

“No!” Photo Finish said.

“Pardon?” Rarity asked.

“Your friend’s posing is unlike her,” Photo Finish said.

“How would you know?” Rarity asked. “You haven’t met her before today.”

“My Mystic Eyes of Personality,” Photo Finish explained. “Zey show me who someone is inside.***”

“And what do the glasses do?” Rarity asked.

“Zey create a filter for my eyes so zat I don’t suffer sensory overload from reading so many ponies at vonce,” Photo Finish explained.****

Fluttershy, hearing this, made more of a pose and expression that she was more naturally suited to do. Photo Finish smiled at this.

“Yes~” she said. “Zat is more like it!” And she took Fluttershy’s snapshot. “Zis pony has—” She then posed dramatically. “Da Magicks!”

“Da magicks?” Spike questioned, which caught Photo Finish’s attention.

“Da magicks,” Photo Finish explained. “Is zeh ‘it factor’ zat zeh ponies I have vorking for me must have.” She then used her Mystic Eyes on Spike. She smiled and extended her hoof to him so he could shake it.

“You’re not going to judge me for being a dragon?” Spike asked.

“Nein,” Photo Finish said. “Regardless of species, my Mystic Eyes see you as a companion.”

Spike shook Photo Finish’s hoof. When they finished properly greeting each other, Photo Finish went back to work taking snapshots of Fluttershy. Soon, the photographer mare was finished.

“Zank you for allowing me to host zis photoshoot, Rarity,” Photo Finish said. “Ve must do zis again another time. For now, I go.” She and her entourage packed up the equipment.

“I’ve only heard about Photo Finish’s efforts,” Twilight said to herself. “But, I don’t think I’ve ever met a pony as eccentric as her.”

“Ahem!” Pinkie said.

“Um,” Twilight said. “Not counting you, Pinkie.”

“Thank you,” Pinkie said.

“Um,” Fluttershy said. “Would you say that went well, Rarity?”

“Yes,” Rarity said. “I would.” She then became so excited that she jumped up and landed on something that wasn’t there earlier.

“Ow!” Spike said. Rarity stopped jumping immediately and noticed she landed on the spade tip of his tail.

“Oh, dear!” Rarity gasped. “I’m terribly sorry, Spike! I was so elated that I didn’t think where I was jumping.”

“Wait,” Pinkie said. “Wouldn’t his scales protect him from feeling pain?”

“Not if external pressure is applied,” Twilight said. “Think of it like wearing armor. It might stop arrows or magic blasts from hurting, but, having it crushed while you’re wearing it will still hurt.”*****

“Plus,” Rarity said, still feeling bad. “My hooves are much bigger and stronger than the pins Spike had in his back. Oh, Spike, I do hope you can forgive me.”

“Hey,” Spike said. “You didn’t do it on purpose. Besides, you’re not the only pony to step on my tail. Intentionally or otherwise.”

Spike then gave Rarity a comforting hug. As he did, Fluttershy inspected his tail.

“A little bit bruised and swollen,” Fluttershy noted. “It’ll need to be elevated for a few days so that the swelling can go down.”

“That’ll be a bit of a problem for me,” Spike said. “I have trouble keeping my tail up.”

“I do have elastic bandages to dress your wound in,” Fluttershy said. “I can’t apply an ice compress because you’re cold-blooded.” She turned to Twilight. “Can I help him out?”

“Of course, Fluttershy,” Twilight smiled.

Before Fluttershy could leave to do so, she noticed a note taped to the door.

“Hmm?” Fluttershy said quietly. “A note?” She saw that it was addressed to Rarity. “It’s for you, Rarity.”

“Oh?” Rarity asked as she took the note, levitating it closer to her with her magic. “I wonder who it’s from.” She read it carefully. “It’s from Photo Finish. She’s asking for another photo shoot in the park in two hours.”

“Oh!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “She did say that she’d want to do this again. I didn’t think it would be this soon.”

“Twilight can take your place,” Spike said.

“I’m afraid not,” Rarity said. “The note insists on Fluttershy being the model.”

“Well, if she insists,” Fluttershy said. “This probably shouldn’t take too long if this photoshoot was anything to go by.” But, she felt very nervous inside. Her friends noticed this and they offered her comfort and support.

Two hours later, Rarity and Fluttershy were at the park. Rarity had brought supplies that were needed for the photo shoot, even managing to bring a privacy screen.

“Uh, Rarity?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yes, Fluttershy?” Rarity responded.

“I don’t mean to criticize you, but, with us being outside with no walls,” Fluttershy said. “Wouldn’t that defeat the purpose of a privacy screen?”******

“This is a special one,” Rarity said. “It can be arranged in a circle around the one using it.”*******

“Oh,” Fluttershy said. “That makes sense.”

The two soon reached Photo Finish.

“Ah, right on time,” Photo Finish smiled. “You know ze drill.”

“So, um,” Fluttershy asked. “What do you have in mind for this photoshoot?”

“Just do your best und I’ll decide if it’s good enough,” Photo Finish said.

“Yes, Miss Finish,” Fluttershy said politely.

“Please,” Photo Finish insisted. “Do call me Photo Finish.”

Fluttershy got into position.

“Yes, well,” Rarity smiled. “I’ll get her suited up.” She levitated the privacy screen and had it circle around Fluttershy. Rarity was sorting out an outfit for Fluttershy to wear, tossing aside designs that didn't suit her. “No, no, no… That’s it!” She then magicked it onto the demure pegasus. It was a white frilly jumpsuit studded with sapphires. “Bluu’s been a big help in gem hunts,” Rarity said. “I doubt I would’ve found these sapphires otherwise.”

“So I see,” Fluttershy commented, looking over her ensemble.

“Photo Finish is sure to love it,” Rarity said.

Rarity moves the privacy screen out of the way so that Photo Finish can get a look at Fluttershy in her ensemble. Photo Finish lookedd over the design.

“A beautiful outfit,” Photo Finish said. “However, it is too complex und does not suit ze zeme of floral nature zat ze model evokes.”

“It would’ve helped to have an idea beforehoof,” Rarity said.

“That is why I asked what she had in mind,” Fluttershy noted.

“Would it be possible to change her outfit?” Rarity asked.

“Ja,” Photo Finish responded. “Do you have anyzing more vernal?”

“I’m sorry,” Rarity said. “‘Vernal?’”

“It means relating to spring,” Fluttershy said.

“Oh,” Rarity said. “It seems my vocabulary could use some work.”

“Oh, that’s alright,” Fluttershy smiled sweetly.

Rarity looked through her designs and found a simpler, spring-themed dress. Photo Finish looked it over and she smiled.

“Perfect!” she exclaimed. “Time to make—” She posed dramatically again. “DA MAGICKS!”

I’m going to have to get used to hearing that, Rarity thought to herself.

Photo Finish took various pictures. Fluttershy felt uncomfortable inside from having so many pictures taken of her, but, she endured it for the sake of making sure the photoshoot was good.

“Ve are done!” Photo Finish announced. Fluttershy breathed a sigh of relief to herself.

Glad that’s over, Fluttershy thought to herself.

"Well?" Rarity asked Photo Finish.

“Your model is beautiful und graceful,” Photo Finish said. “She is ze type zat could model ze couture from any fashion pony. I have been looking for such a model.”

“Um, Photo Finish?” Fluttershy hastened to say. “I’m not a professional model, so-”

Rarity began speaking on her friend’s behalf.

“What she’s trying to say,” Rarity said. “Is that she was doing this as a favor to help my career take off.”

“I understand,” Photo Finish said. “Unfortunately I have searched high und low for a new model, but, all ze best vones seem to be taken. Your friend, Fluttershy, seems to have quite the potential und, viz my help, I can make her shine across all of Equestria."

“I feel sympathy for your lack of success finding models,” Rarity said. “But, not responsibility. As Fluttershy’s friend, the answer is no.”

Fluttershy had rather mixed feelings on the matter before her. On one hoof, she was relieved that Rarity was preventing her from accepting a job she wasn’t comfortable with. On the other, she felt rather insulted that another pony was making her choice for her.********

“Photo Finish,” Fluttershy said, somewhat boldly after taking a deep breath. “I’ll model for you.”

Rarity gasped upon hearing this. "Fluttershy, are you out of your mind? You can't possibly expect me to believe you actually like being a model."

“Not fully,” Fluttershy said. “But, I’m doing this to help Photo Finish. With what happened earlier today, I now have some experience. Besides, this should be my decision.”

"Fluttershy, you don't have to do this," Rarity said. "We're already going to get what we want out of this photo shoot. I'm going to get some publicity and you won't have to model again."

“But, I’m the Element of Kindness,” Fluttershy said.

“Vhat is zis about Element of Kindness?” Photo Finish asked.

“That’s a story I can’t be bothered to go into detail about right now,” Rarity said before turning her attention back to Fluttershy. “And it’s irrelevant because it doesn’t give you a moral obligation to do something you clearly aren't going to like. If Photo Finish can make you as popular as she claims she can, then you'll never know a moment's rest. Thousands of ponies will be swarming over you, watching your every move."

“Knowing that I’m to help someone as important as Photo Finish,” Fluttershy said. “It will be worth the risk.”

“Fluttershy,” Rarity said. “I’m begging you to reconsider. I know you don’t care about being the center of attention.”

“I know you’re looking out for me,” Fluttershy said. “But, I’ve barely made any decisions on my own my whole life. I’m 17 years old now. I need to be able to make decisions for myself.”

Rarity took in Fluttershy’s words. She at last sighed and said, “Very well then. If that’s your decision, then, I won't stop you. I'll try my best to find a suitable replacement for you. Just promise me you won't let all that fame come between us.”

“Of course not,” Fluttershy said.

“So,” Photo Finish said. “You are going to help me, ja?”

“Yes,” Fluttershy said.

“Wunderbar!” Photo Finish exclaimed happily. "Now come viz me, Fluttershy, und together, ve shall spread–” she posed dramatically again. “DA MAGICKS across Equestria."

So, Photo Finish led Fluttershy away. Fluttershy could only look back and see the dismayed look on Rarity’s face.

Later, Rarity returned to Carousel Boutique, where Twilight, Pinkie, and Spike were waiting as she trusted them to look after her shop in her absence.

“How’d it go, Rarity?” Pinkie asked happily.

“It didn’t,” Rarity said.

“Oh dear,” Twilight gasped. “Do you want to tell us what happened?”

Rarity sighed and began explaining. Afterwards, the three friends had sympathetic looks on their faces.

“So sorry that happened, Rarity,” Spike said.

“Is there anything we can do to help you?” Twilight asked.

“I would like be left alone for a while,” Rarity said. “That means you, Spike.”

“We understand, Rarity,” Spike said.

“Come on, guys,” Twilight said. “We’ll give her the privacy she needs. Rarity, if you need to come to one of our homes for any reason whatsoever, you’re welcome to do so.”

“Thank you for the offer,” Rarity said.

So, the three friends left Rarity to her own devices.

Meanwhile, at Photo Finish’s studio, Fluttershy was being dolled up for a fashion show. She was wearing a dress with layers of transparent green fabric with opaque green shoes. Her hair was done up in an intricate hairstyle. On top of that, ponies were putting makeup and jewelry on her. A pale yellow earth mare with a classy dark blue mane and tail was applying blush to Fluttershy’s cheeks, much to the pegasus’ chagrin.

Photo Finish carefully oversaw everything. “Hmm, too much blush.” She noted. The blush was removed. “Not enough,” she noted again. More was applied. “Perfect.”

Some of the blush powder tickled Fluttershy’s nose.

“Ah… Ahhh~!” Fluttershy wheezed. A sneeze was coming, but it ended up being a soft quiet one. “Choo.”

Photo Finish smiled. “Oh, yes,” she smiled. “Even her sneezes are graceful!” She then turned her attention to her assistant mares and had them move aside. She redirected her attention to Fluttershy. “How do you feel? Excited? Overjoyed? Zrilled beyond your vildest dreams?”

“Nervous,” Fluttershy said.

“Ah,” Photo Finish said. “I have seen zese first-time jitters before. You must remember to take ze deep cleansing breath. Inhale for four seconds, hold for eight seconds, exhale for seven seconds.”

Fluttershy tried it.

“Actually,” Fluttershy said. “That did help a little bit. Thank you.”

The two suddenly heard music playing.

“Zat is your cue,” Photo Finish smiled. “Now go!”

Fluttershy stepped out from the curtain. Come on, she mentally pushed herself. You were in a fashion show before. This is no different. Well, slightly since I’m not in a dress Rarity made, but, I can do this.

The audience ponies looked at Fluttershy and her ensemble. They seemed amazed with her. Never before had they seen such grace. Fluttershy was trying her best not to look nervous. She carefully walked on the runway, making sure she didn't accidentally trip or hurt herself. She looked at the audience occasionally. They smiled at her, captivated by her natural beauty, not counting her makeup. She took that as a good sign.

“She’s so graceful,” a lilac colored Earth pony with a blond mane and tail said.

“You got that right, Lyrica,” said another.

“I remember seeing her among a group of mares modeling two variations of dresses by an up and coming fashion designer,” Hoity Toity said. “Now that I’m getting a look at her in another fashion designer’s dress, she’ll be perfect for showing my couture.”

Fluttershy winced a bit. She knew he was talking about the two variations of gala dresses that Rarity made. I hope Rarity’s okay, she thought to herself.

Various pictures of Fluttershy were taken. She was also modeling different dresses and her mane was done up in various updos. She was even branded on Apple Family products. Applejack had to admit that even if Fluttershy is a valued friend of hers, even she had to keep up with the trend in advertising to help get the funds her family needed. Though, her feelings on the matter were mixed to say the least. Rarity herself tried to fight her feelings of jealousy, but, it was hard for her to manage. Seeing Rainbow tow a Fluttershy banner did not help matters. She decided to go back to Carousel Boutique, where she at least couldn’t see Fluttershy’s face on any form of advertisement.

A week later, Fluttershy was trying to walk through Ponyville without being seen. She wore a tacky hat, scarf, and a pair of sunglasses. She even wore a skirt to hide her Cutie Mark. To her relief, it seemed to work.

“Phew,” Fluttershy softly said. She then made it to Carousel Boutique. She saw that her shop was open, so, she went inside. “Rarity?”

The fashionista was using her sewing machine.

“It’s been a while since I last saw you, and I missed hanging out,” Fluttershy continued. “I was wondering if you wanted to catch up over our usual spa session.”

Rarity took a deep breath. “Yes, Fluttershy,” Rarity smiled. “I would love that.”

Suddenly, Photo Finish entered.

“Ah, zere you are, Fluttershy!” Photo Finish smiled. “I haff been looking for you everyvere! We have zat sing at zat place to get to!”

“See you then, Rarity,” Fluttershy said.

“See you too, Fluttershy,” Rarity called. “Enjoy that… thing at that place.”

Fluttershy was escorted out of the boutique by Photo Finish. Once the two mares were out of sight, Rarity’s expression dropped to one of bitter resentment. “I’m the one who loves attention.”

Later, Photo Finish and Fluttershy were being interviewed by paparazzi ponies. Photo Finish did most of the talking.

“I, Photo Finish, am zrilled to have found her,” Photo Finish said. Cameras flashed. “She is a natural in front of ze camera. I simply need to point, click, und I capture-” She posed dramatically yet again. “DA MAGICKS!”

The paparazzi ponies clamored excitedly to take Fluttershy’s picture. Fluttershy tried to look brave.

Maybe Rarity was right to refuse for me at first, Fluttershy thought to herself. But, I can’t give up now. She then looked at a clock and gasped.

“Photo Finish,” Fluttershy said. “I’m running late!”

The photographer gasped.

“Gut heavens, you are right!” Photo Finish gasped. Fluttershy smiled a bit at this. “How could I possibly forget the ballet opening tonight? Everypony who is anypony vill be zere!” Fluttershy’s expression dropped at this.

“I meant that I was supposed to meet my friend at-” Fluttershy started to say before Photo Finish tugged her in a different direction. “Whoa~!”

At the spa, Rarity was soaking in the hot tub. One would think she would be feeling relaxed, but, it was clear that other thoughts were in her head that weren’t washed away with the spa’s serenity. Spike walked up to Rarity in a robe.

“You’ve been in there for like an hour,” Spike said.

“I’ve been waiting for Fluttershy,” Rarity said. “The thing at that place she’s at must have been drawn on longer than I expected.”

“That’s not very specific,” Spike said.

“Believe me, I know,” Rarity sighed. “Photo Finish was quite vague when she described it.”

“You don’t sound very happy for Fluttershy,” Spike observed.

Rarity took a deep breath and heavily sighed. “It’s because I’m jealous of the attention that she’s been getting out of all of this. I’m sorry if that’s a petty reason, Spike, but, that’s how I feel.”

“Maybe if you tell Fluttershy how you feel,” Spike suggested. “Things won’t be so bad.”

“I could try,” Rarity said. “But, her being a model is her decision and I don’t want it to seem like I’m stopping her because I’m being selfish.”

“I still don’t see why Fluttershy volunteered,” Spike said. “We both know she’s not a fan of attention.”

“She does have a point of making her own decisions though,” Rarity said. She then stepped out of the water. “So, until she and I can meet up again, can you please promise not to tell her about my feelings of jealousy?”

“Sure,” Spike said. “I can keep a secret. I have a box of secrets I keep.”

“Thank you, Spike,” Rarity smiled. “I’d best be going now. The heat from the hot tub has made me feel light-headed. But, I’ll see you later, alright?”

“Sure,” Spike said. “I need to take a dip anyway.”

“I would recommend caution, Spike,” Rarity said. “Hot water has been running out quite frequently lately in Ponyville.”

Spike blushed at this, knowing that he was the reason behind that.

“Uh,” Spike said. “I’ll keep that in mind, Rarity. Thank you.”

Rarity left and Spike removed his robe before easing into the tub. As he began his soak, Fluttershy entered the room.

“Rarity,” Fluttershy called. “I’m so sorry I’m late. I was just-” She stopped herself when she saw that Rarity wasn’t present. “Oh, no. She’s already gone, isn’t she?”

“Sorry,” Spike said apologetically.

“Oh, I can’t believe this,” Fluttershy said in an annoyed tone. “I am so frustrated, I could just scream!” She takes a deep inhale, but, instead of screaming, she let out a quiet squeak.

“Feeling better?” Spike asked.

Fluttershy sighed. “No,” she said. “Spike, can I be honest with you about something?”

“Sure,” he said.

Fluttershy cleared her throat and she told Spike the truth. “I know I said it was my decision to model for Photo Finish,” she said. “But, I don’t like it at all. Really, the only reason I’m doing so is to help somepony in need of help, but, all of the attention is just too much!” She sighed. “Rarity was right. I haven’t known a moment’s peace since I started modeling.”

“When you get the chance,” Spike suggested. “You can talk to Rarity about it. Things will be a lot better if you do.”

“I will,” Fluttershy said. “But, until I decide for myself when I do, can you not tell Rarity?”

“I promise,” Spike smiled.

“Pinkie Pie Promise?” Fluttershy asked.

“Cross my heart and hope to fly,” Spike said. “Stick a cupcake in my eye.” Spike was careful to close his eye before putting his clawed hand over it.

“Thank you, Spike,” Fluttershy said as she nuzzled his head.

“Happy to help,” Spike smiled. Suddenly, Pinkie jumped out of the basket of sponges. Fluttershy and Spike yelped at the sudden appearance of Pinkie. “How long have you been there?”

“Long enough,” Pinkie said. “Sometimes I like a nice sponge soak.”

“I’ve just given up questioning you at this point,” Spike said.

“You’re welcome,” Pinkie giggled. Fluttershy left and Pinkie directly addressed Spike. “I know about your promises to Rarity and Fluttershy.”

“I’m going to keep them,” Spike said.

“And I’m going to keep an eye on you to make sure you do,” Pinkie said.

“Uh, Pinkie?” Spike said uncomfortably. “You do realize that that would be stalking, right?”*********

After a pause, Pinkie said, “I didn’t until just now when you pointed it out.” She shifted back to her serious mood. “But, I take Pinkie Promises very seriously. Breaking a promise is a way to lose a friend’s trust, which could lead to losing that friend forever.”

“Following ponies and dragons around everywhere they go, jumping out of hidden places, and pressuring them to keep those promises isn’t exactly any better,” Spike said. “It makes it seem like you don’t trust your friends enough to keep their promises on their own.”**********

Pinkie listened to Spike’s words. “You know, I never thought of it that way,” Pinkie said. “Okay, then. My eye on you is closed.”

“I won’t have to look over my shoulder every other minute?” Spike asked.

“Not unless you want me to,” Pinkie said. “But, since you don’t want me to, you don't have to worry about that.”

“Why would I want that?” Spike asked.

“If you asked me to be your lookout pony,” Pinkie said.

“I’m pretty sure that’s not how being a lookout works,” Spike said.

“Either way,” Pinkie said. “I’m going to give you the benefit of the doubt and trust that you can keep their secrets.”

“I’ll hold you to that,” Spike said.

Pinkie then bounced out of the spa leaving Spike to enjoy his soak.

Soon, Twilight came to pick him up. “Hi, Spike,” Twilight smiled. “How was your time at the spa?”

“Very relaxing,” Spike said. “Though, there’s a bit of a problem between Rarity and Fluttershy.”

“Oh, dear,” Twilight gasped. “Are they not getting along with each other?”

“Well, actually,” Spike said. “Both are having difficulties with Fluttershy being a model.”

“I see,” Twilight said. “If only there was something we could do to help.”

“Not unless you can figure out a way to make Fluttershy stop modeling,” Spike said.

“Why doesn’t Fluttershy just quit?” Twilight asked.

“Well,” Spike said. “Fluttershy told me a few times during our tea parties that she’s getting a bit tired of others making decisions for her. She feels that once a decision is made, it has to be seen through.”

“I see,” Twilight said. “So, she feels just quitting would be going back on her decision?”

“Pretty much,” Spike said. “And we know how Fluttershy is. She poses cutely without even trying.”

“That’s true,” Twilight said. “That is the factor that drew Photo Finish to her. If Fluttershy wasn’t so cute, she wouldn’t want her to model anymore.”

“But, asking Fluttershy not to be cute is like asking a fish not to swim,” Spike said. “It’s against her nature.”

“That’s true,” Twilight said. Just then, an idea came to Twilight’s mind. “Spike, you’re a genius!”

“Uh, thanks, Twilight,” Spike said. “But, why am I a genius? What are you going to do?”

Later, Twilight explained her plan to Spike at the library.

“So, you see,” Twilight said. “Fluttershy may be too polite and demure to act ill-mannered and clumsy on her own, but, if I can use my magic on her, with her permission, to make it look like she’s unappealing, ponies will be so unnerved by her and Photo Finish won’t ask her to be a model anymore.”

“But, won’t ponies notice your magic aura?” Spike asked.

“With the bright spotlights,” Twilight explained. “It will be hard for them to see my aura. I would have to talk with Fluttershy to see if she’s okay with this. Until I do…”

“Let me guess,” Spike said. “You don’t want me to tell anypony else?”

“I know it’s a big responsibility,” Twilight said. “But, I know that you can do it.”

“Sure,” Spike said sarcastically. “I’m only keeping two other secrets and I might have to worry about Pinkie stalking me, but, whatever.”

After a pause, Twilight said, “I’ll have to have a talk with Pinkie about this.”

Later, at the fashion show, Twilight explained her plan to Fluttershy. Fluttershy didn’t say anything until Twilight was done.

“Oh,” Fluttershy said with a smile. “That’s a brilliant idea, Twilight. If it’s to help me, then I’ll allow you to use your magic on me.”

“Just leave it to me,” Twilight said.

“Thank you, Twilight,” Fluttershy smiled. She stepped out onto the catwalk.

Meanwhile, Rarity was entering the audience. She was wearing a pink cape and matching headdress with intricate purple feathers.

I may still be jealous of the attention she’s been getting, she thought to herself. But, she is still my friend. I must support her. Regardless of personal feelings.

When Fluttershy was on the catwalk, Twilight worked her magic. Fluttershy felt the magic take hold of her and she uncontrollably landed face first on the runway ground. This stunned the crowd. Photo Finish was especially shocked. Fluttershy continued to move via Twilight’s magic, stretching, leaping, and fumbling about. At one point, Twilight made Fluttershy pick her nose. The crowd jeered in disgust. Rarity, watching from afar, watched the mayhem going on. At first, she seemed happy that Fluttershy was acting against her normal self, but, as she heard the crowd boo her, she had a change of heart and became sympathetic. Using her Mystic Eyes, she suddenly noticed a familiar magical aura around her.

Twilight? she thought to herself. Why is she doing this? Well, I can’t let this happen to Fluttershy. I can’t let my jealousy get in the way of our friendship.

“Get her off the stage!” Golden Harvest jeered.

“I have made ze terrible mistake!” Photo Finish said aloud.

Suddenly, there came a sound nopony expected, not even Twilight or Fluttershy. It was the sound of praise coming from a friend.

“Bravo!” called the familiar voice of Rarity with her hooves clopping with applause. “I say, Bravo!” The audience looked around.

“Bravo?” asked Lyrica Lilac. “Who in their right mind would applaud this ghastly display?”

Royal Ribbon located the source. It was Rarity, stomping her hooves happily.

“Such bravery, such charisma!” Rarity cheered. “She’s invented a whole new take on modeling! Bravo!” The audience looked at her.

“It’s her!” Royal Ribbon called. “That mare in the gorgeous cape and headdress! There is a pony who understands fashion.”

“Well,” conceded Lyrica. “If that fabulous pony likes it, I do, too.”

So, everyone applauded for Fluttershy. Photo Finish smiled at this excitedly. Twilight stopped using her magic on Fluttershy. Because of Rarity’s impulsive applauding, the plan backfired.

Backstage, Fluttershy was less than thrilled.

“I can’t believe it!” Fluttershy huffed. “I’ve somehow become even more popular! I’m so frustrated I could just kick something!”

She prepared to kick a vase that was behind her. But, she was so delicate that it only wobbled slightly. She sighed in despair.

“I appreciate you trying to help me all the same, Twilight,” Fluttershy continued. “But, it looks like I’m going to be a model longer than I thought.”

At that moment, Rarity entered.

“Oh, Fluttershy!” Rarity panted. “Are you doing alright?”

Twilight gently urged Fluttershy to come clean. Fluttershy sighed at last.

“Honestly, Rarity,” Fluttershy responded. “I’m not alright.”

“Elaborate,” Rarity said.

“You were right to refuse for me before,” Fluttershy said. “I know that it was my decision to be a model, but, I absolutely hate being a model! If I just quit, it would prove I can’t make decisions on my own and stick to them.”

“You mean,” Rarity said. “You only continued because you felt obligated?”

“Yes,” Fluttershy said at last. “So, if you were to say ‘I told you so,’ right now, I wouldn’t blame you.”

Rarity felt a twinge of guilt.

“I’m not going to say that,” Rarity said. “Because I have a confession to make myself.”

“You do?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yes,” Rarity said. “I was jealous of all of the attention you were getting while you were a model. I was so worried that if I told you that, you would think I was selfish and a terrible friend.”

“Honestly,” Fluttershy said. “I don’t. I don’t like too much attention. You thrive on it.”

“Oh… wow,” Rarity said. “If we had just told each other how we really felt, we wouldn’t have been in this situation.”

“We wouldn’t be in this situation if I listened to you in the first place,” Fluttershy said.

“And we wouldn’t be in this situation if I hadn’t asked you to model for me the first time for Photo Finish,” Rarity said. “Well, I can safely say that I promise never to hide my true feelings from you again.”

“So do I,” agreed Fluttershy.

The two mares happily hugged it out. Just then, Photo Finish came in.

“Fluttershy, you vere amazing!” Photo Finish exclaimed. “I have six photoshoots lined up for tomorrow alone!”

“I’m sorry,” Fluttershy said. “I won’t be able to make any of them.”

“Vhat?” Photo Finish gasped.

“Being a model just isn’t for me,” Fluttershy said. “I hope I haven’t disappointed you, but, it’s so overwhelming for me and I no longer wish to continue. To make a long story short, I quit.”

Photo Finish carefully studied Fluttershy. She understood Fluttershy’s feelings. “I understand,” she said. “It von’t be easy finding anozer model who is just as graceful und polite as you are, but, sank you for helping me vhen you could. Now go.”

With that, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Twilight left.

“Twilight,” Rarity said. “Would you and Spike like to join us for a session at the spa? It has been a minute since the two of us have had some quality time there together.”

“Sounds good to me,” Twilight said. “Spike is due for a session of relaxation, so that should help him considerably.”

So, the three mares and one drake were at the spa. At separate times, Rarity and Fluttershy confided in Spike that he no longer had to keep their secrets since they already worked out their problems.

“That’s good to know,” Spike said each time. “Now, I don’t have to worry about Pinkie stalking me.”

The four friends enjoyed their time at the spa. After Twilight and Spike got home, Spike penned a letter that Twilight had thought of.

“Dear Princess Celestia,
Being a good friend means being able to keep a secret. However, you should never be afraid to express your true feelings with a good friend.
Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle.”

Spike rolled up the scroll and sent it away.

“Thank you, Spike,” Twilight smiled.

“No problem, Twilight,” Spike said. “What else needs doing?”

“We’re good for the day,” Twilight said.

End of chapter.

Chapter 21: Over a Barrel (S1:E21)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 21: Over a Barrel

It had been three days since Fluttershy resigned as Photo Finish’s model. On that particular day, Spike, Twilight, and their friends were loading a potted apple tree into the last car of a train.

“I never thought I would be taking a train to Appleloosa,” Twilight said. “I had heard a lot about it, but, this will be my first time going there.”

“Mah cousin, Braeburn, moved there a couple years back,” Applejack said.

“I can’t wait to meet him,” Pinkie smiled. “It’ll be nice to meet the members of your family I haven't met yet.”

“Where did he live originally?” Spike asked.

“In Manehattan,” Applejack said. “With mah Aunt Citrus Orange n’ mah Uncle Mostly Orange.*”

“Manehattan?” Rarity gasped. “That place is home to the longest row of fashion shops; Saddle Row. But, if your cousin moved to Appleloosa, there must be something there that appealed more to his personal choices.”

Applejack nodded. “Much like me n’ mah siblin’s, he had the love o’ farmin’ crops. His two sisters, Sunflower n‘ Babs Seed, preferred Manehattan.”

“How long will it take for us to get there by train?” Spike asked.

“At least overnight,” Applejack said. “That’s why ah went ahead n’ ordered access ta the sleeper cars fer y’all.”

Twilight knew that all of them sleeping in one car meant potential for Spike to be rudely awoken, something she knew he took exception to. While her friends knew this as well, she knew that Pinkie and Rainbow could be a bit loud even when trying to be quiet.

“As well as havin’ a private bunk fer Spike in Bloomberg’s sleeper car,**” Applejack added.

“Why am I stuck with the tree?” Spike asked.

“Would ya rather risk Rainbow er Pinkie chattin’ n’ wakin’ ya up in the dead o’ night?” Applejack asked.

“Good point,” Spike said. “It’ll be good to get some extra oxygen while I sleep.”

So, the seven friends boarded the train. Spike seemed particularly excited.

“Ya excited ta check out Appleloosa, too, Spike?” Applejack asked with a smile.

“Actually,” Spike said. “I’m mostly excited about the train.”

“Yeah?” Applejack asked.

“For as long as I can remember,” Spike said. “I’ve had a keen interest in trains.***”

“That’s mighty nice,” Applejack smiled. “Guess it is a good thing ah asked ya ta come along.”

“That and Twilight refused to go without me,” Spike quipped.

“That’s true,” Applejack smiled, giving him an affectionate head rub. “Can’t leave ya all alone.”

Rarity gave Spike a bag full of emeralds. “In case you get hungry,” she said.

“Thanks, Rarity,” Spike smiled.

The engine’s whistle blew loudly, signaling that it’s time to go.

“All aboard~!” the conductor called.

“We better take our seats,” Twilight said.

“Good idea, Twilight,” Fluttershy smiled. “Safety first.”

Soon, night fell as the train continued its journey. Spike was asleep in the private sleeper car where Bloomberg and Applejack were. In a separate sleeper car, most of the mares were chatting amongst themselves. Rarity, however, was trying to get her beauty sleep. This was extremely difficult.

“Darlings,” Rarity said. “Not to be a stick in the mud, but, would you mind keeping it down? I’m trying to get my beauty sleep.” She applied a mud mask to her face.

“Sorry, Rarity,” Fluttershy said softly. “We’ll be quiet.”

The lights went out and the mares went to sleep. After a few minutes, though, a hushed voice breaks the silence. It was Rainbow.

“Psst,” she whispered. “Pinkie, you asleep yet?”

“No,” Pinkie whispered. “Are you?”

“If I was sleeping,” Rainbow asked Pinkie in an annoyed whisper. She was using one of her wings to hold a lit candle. “How could I have asked you if you were asleep?”

Pinkie considered this. “Good point,” Pinkie whispered. “So, what’s up?”

“When we get to Appleloosa, you think we'll have to carry that heavy tree all the way from the train to the orchard?” Rainbow whispered.

“You mean Bloomberg?” Pinkie asked.

“No, I mean Fluttershy,” Rainbow whispered sarcastically.

Pinkie didn’t pick up on the sarcasm. “Fluttershy’s not a tree, silly.”

“That’s because I was being sarcastic,” Rainbow whispered before stage whispering. “Of course I meant Bloomberg!”

“I’d like to be a tree,” giggled Fluttershy.

“…Why?” Rainbow asked in confusion.

Twilight was half awake at that point. “You know Pinkie has trouble identifying sarcasm, right?”

“I realize that now,” Rainbow whispered.

“Well, I'm sure the folks meeting us at the train station will probably have plenty of able bodies to help us get Bloomberg to the orchard,” Twilight whispered.

“I hope so,” Rainbow whispered. “I’m more super speed than super strength. I’m sure there are other ways I can help, though.****”

Rarity had just about enough. “Would you all be quiet NOW?!” Rarity shouted, cucumber slices on her eyes and curlers in her mane. The light of the candle gave Rarity a somewhat menacing look, and this surprised the other mares. So, they blew out the candle and went to bed.

Meanwhile, Spike was looking out the window to see the countryside pass by. It’s strangely relaxing, Spike thought to himself. Given that it’s night, he didn’t want to speak out loud and disturb anyone despite the only other living thing in the car with him being the tree. The speed of the train is pretty smooth and seeing the desert at night is nice. He then began to feel sleep take hold. He nuzzled up in his bunk and drifted off to dreamland.

Suddenly, the engine broke down in the middle of the night, stopping with a jerk. The passengers woke up with a start.

“What’s going on?!” Rainbow demanded before the conductor entered.

“Terribly sorry,” he said. “The engine has broken down and the crew of the train will have to pull it the rest of the way as we have no means of contacting nearby emergency services.*****”

“An iron horse pulled by actual horses?” Pinkie said. “What are the chances?”

Spike suddenly busted into the sleeper car. “Okay, who’s the donkey’s behind that made the train jerk?!” he asked in a grumpy mood.

“The engine itself, Spike,” Twilight explained. “It broke down.”

“Well,” Spike said. “I’d like to see the pony that forgot to check the engine and punch their lights out!”

“Spike,” Twilight said. “Remember what I taught you. Show me a dragon that tries correcting mistakes with violence, I’ll show you a dragon that’s run out of good ideas.******”

Spike heard Twilight’s words and he took a deep, cleansing breath. “You’re right, Twilight,” he said. “Sorry. You know that I get grumpy when I don’t get my sleep.”

“Well, I know an easy way to fix that,” Twilight said before she levitated a thermos of hot chocolate to him.

“Wow, Twilight,” Rainbow said with an impressed smile as Spike drank from the thermos while heading back to his car. “You really are like a mom to him.”

“I can’t bring myself to physically harm him,” Twilight said. “That’d just make me continue the cycle of abuse and make him think hurting others is okay. I want him to be better than that.”

Soon, Spike finished his hot chocolate. He felt much more relaxed and his eyelids began to grow heavy.

The sun was rising as the train continued its journey. Spike was able to get the sleep that he needed and he felt much better. Suddenly, the ponies were woken up by being jerked out of their beds.

“Now what?” Rainbow said. “There can’t be more engine problems.”

Pinkie looked out the window.

“Ooh!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Looks like we’re getting a greeting from the locals!”

The others looked out and saw a buffalo stampede.

“I don’t think I’ve read anything in my books about a buffalo show,” Twilight said. “It’s a stampede!”

“They have fascinating accessories,” Rarity said. “Though, their proximity to the train has me concerned.”

Rarity was right to be concerned. One fully grown buffalo rammed against one of the coaches, causing the train to wobble on the tracks.

“I know this is rich coming from me,” Rainbow said. “But, that was reckless and stupid!”

“Hang on, everypony!” Fluttershy called.

“Look!” Pinkie said. “They’re doing tricks!”

“What do you mean, Pinkie?” Twilight said. “I don’t think they’re here to entertain us!”

One buffalo jumped on top of another.

“What do you think is going to happen?” Rarity asked as another, smaller buffalo came running.

“Aww, it looks like a younger one,” Pinkie smiled. “She’s so cute.”

The smaller one jumped on top of the stacked buffalo.

“I don’t know what’s about to happen,” Fluttershy said nervously. “But, we better brace for impact.”

To their surprise, the small buffalo jumped on top of the car they were in.

“Can somepony please explain what’s going on here?!” Rainbow shouted impatiently.

“Why don’t you just ask the one on top of the train?” Pinkie asked.

“I’m goin’ up!” Rainbow said. She opened the skylight window and flew out to the top of the train car. She called out to the young buffalo. “Hey! What are you doing?!”

The young buffalo didn’t respond.

“Hey, I’m talking to you!” Rainbow called.

The young buffalo ignored her and made her way to the back of the train.

“Hey!” Rainbow called, following her. The buffalo continued to ignore her while picking up speed. “I just want to know what’s going on!”

Meanwhile, Spike was sound asleep, unaware that the bed was sliding around. Applejack was making sure Bloomberg was in place, but, she had to make sure Spike was safe. However, she remembered that she kept a watering can in her car and quickly left to get it.

There can’t be too much trouble between now n’ when ah get back, Applejack said internally.

However, outside, Rainbow was still trying to speak to the buffalo.

“Stop, please!” Rainbow called. “Why won’t you stop?!” In her frustration, she didn’t realize that she was on a collision course with a railroad sign. “Just stop so we can–!”

The loud metallic clang from when Rainbow hit the railroad sign interrupted her. She felt like she was seeing stars. The buffalo then uncoupled the car from the rest of the train. A few of her buffalo brethren helped to push the car away from the train after she whistled a signal.

Inside the car, Spike began to stir. “Boy, that was a great sleep,” Spike said. “Glad things got better after the engine broke down. Especially with Twilight to help keep my head on straight.” He then looked out a window and saw the buffalo moving the car he was in. “Huh, that’s weird. It’s like those buffalo are supposed to be moving, but, it looks like they’re not going anyway. Wait a minute!” He climbed to the car’s upper level and saw that it was being pushed away from the train. He tried to talk to one of the buffalo. “Uh, excuse me? Is there a particular reason why you’re pushing this car away from the train?”

Spike’s question fell on deaf ears as the windows couldn’t be opened, which prevented the buffalo from hearing him. Spike groaned to himself and hunched himself in his bed. “What am I going to do?”

With Twilight and her other friends, they saw the buffalo take the last car away.

“They’ve got Spike!” Twilight said.

“Ah’m powerful sorry, everypony,” Applejack said dismally. “If ah hadn’t left ta get Bloomberg’s waterin’ can, Spike wouldn’ta got himself dragonnapped.”

“I’m going after them!” Twilight declared. “Spike’s my responsibility and I’m not going to let them take him away from me!”

“I’m going with you, Twilight,” Rarity said. “Spike means a lot to me as well.”

“As much as I appreciate that,” Twilight said. “Rainbow and I should be enough to get Spike back.”

Twilight jumped off the train and ran to Rainbow, who had just come to.

“Ugh, what happened?” Rainbow groaned.

“Those buffalo took Spike,” Twilight said.

“What?!” Rainbow exclaimed. “We have to get him back!” She was about to fly when a migraine occurred. “Ow! Uh, I think we can get him back by walking the way they went, could we?”

“You’ll need to take it easy with those migraines,” Twilight said. “We’ll follow their hoofprints.”

Meanwhile, Rarity was pacing in concern over Spike.

“It’s going to be okay, Rarity,” Fluttershy said gently. “If anypony can help Spike, it’s Twilight. And Rainbow is the Element of Loyalty. They’ll make sure Spike is back safe and sound.”

“I can’t help but worry all the same,” Rarity said. “He has a very sheltered upbringing and he’s much younger than we are.”

“Hey,” Pinkie said. “Just because Spike’s a little guy, it doesn't mean he doesn’t have moxie. After all, didn’t you and him use your wits to get out of the Diamond Dog situation with help from Bluu?”

“Yes,” Rarity admitted. “But, I still worry. Those buffalo nearly knocking the train off the tracks didn’t help matters. Do you even realize how many ponies could’ve been hurt or worse if they succeeded?”

“Uh,” Pinkie said. “Considering the only ponies on the train were us, the conductor, the waiter, the chef, the bartender, the firepony, the baggage car attendant, the mail car attendant, and the engineer, only 14 ponies and a dragon. Honestly, it makes me wonder why this train has so many cars if we’re the only passengers.*******”

“Regardless,” Rarity said. “That is still quite a number of ponies and dragon that could potentially be hurt. Spike’s scales are durable, but, they still have a limit.”

“Ah may not know the intentions on the buffalo,” Applejack said. “But, ah can promise ya that Spike will be okay. Twilight n’ Rainbow’ll be safe, too. We’ll just have ta trust ‘em.”

Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy all took a deep breath before realizing that Pinkie was nowhere in sight.

Meanwhile, the buffalo brought the car to their campsite. Once Spike felt the car coming to a complete stop, he opened the door. He saw the buffalo being praised by what appeared to be their chief. None of the buffalo had noticed him yet.

“Well done,” the chief said to the other buffalo. “That should keep the ponies from sending trains through our land.”

“Hey, what’s going on here?!” Spike demanded. This caught the attention of the buffalo, who all gasped upon seeing him and immediately began bowing in reverence. “Uh, did I miss something here?”

“Pardon my tribe’s insolence, mighty dragon,” the chief said. “They were unaware of your blessed presence.”

“This is just raising more questions,” Spike said. “You’re acting like I’m a god or something.”

“We buffalo revere dragons as guardians in our culture,” the chief explained. “They protect us and we thank them with offerings of gemstones.”

“But, I’m only ten years old,” Spike said.

“Yes, we can tell you are a youngling,” the chief said. “But, we respect them as much as we respect the full-grown dragons. We help nourish the young ones so they can grow. Which reminds me, you must be hungry.”

Some bowls of turquoise are brought to him.

“Well,” Spike said. “I haven’t had breakfast yet. So, thanks.” He began sampling the turquoise. “So, can you please tell me what’s going on?”

“We are the Buffalo Tribe,” the chief explained. “We have lived in this part of Equestria for several generations. However, over time, ponies have come to our land, building their structures.”

“Why’s that a problem?” Spike asked. “You have plenty of land to spare.”

“The problem was,” the chief said sternly. “When we tried to ask them what was going on, they chased us away and they went on carrying on without talking to us.”

“Okay, I can see where you’re coming from,” Spike admitted. “I sure wouldn’t like being given the boot without a say in the matter. But, are they actually attacking any of you?”

“No,” the chief said. “But, during their building, they planted many trees in an apple orchard. The land they chose is stampeding grounds for our traditional ceremonies.”

“You can’t just stampede somewhere else?” Spike asked.

“It is not a matter of stampeding whenever we want wherever we want,” the chief said. “It is a matter of upholding our tribe’s legacy.”

“You know,” Spike said. “Maybe the settler ponies have their own reasons for using the land. From what Applejack told me, the ground they planted their orchards in are the only fertile ground for miles. Those trees grow food for them to survive on. Do you genuinely think they deserve to starve to death just trying to find a new place to live?”

“I see your point,” the chief said. “But, I do not know the answer.”

At that moment, the young buffalo from before made it back to the buffalo tribe’s campsite. Hidden behind her by a rock were Rainbow and Twilight.********

Meanwhile, the train arrived at Appleloosa. Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy, still trying to find Pinkie, exited the train. At the platform, they met up with an Earth pony stallion. He had a golden yellow coat, a brownish-honey colored mane and tail, bright green eyes, a large red apple for his Cutie Mark, and he wore typical western garb of a stetson hat and matching vest. This was Applejack’s cousin, Braeburn.

“Hey there,” the stallion said in a southern accent. “Welcome ta A-A-ppleloosa!”

“Braeburn, listen-” Applejack tried to explain the situation, but, she was promptly interrupted.

“Cousin Applejack,” Braeburn said. “Mind yer manners. Ya didn’t introduce me ta yer compadres.”

“Listen,” Applejack tried to say again. “Somethin’ terrible’s happened, n’--”

“Ah’ll say somethin’ terrible happened,” Braeburn said. “Yer train’s seven minutes late, seven minutes less ta enjoy the sights o’ A-A-ppleloosa!”

“No time ta enjoy the pleasantries!” Applejack shouted. “Our dragon friend n’ the new tree were captured by a herd o’ buffalo!”

Braeburn’s exuberant attitude was quickly dashed upon hearing “buffalo.”

“D-did ya say, ‘buffalo?’” Braeburn asked with a nervous twinge in his eye.

“Is there a problem?” Fluttershy asked.

“Ah’ll say it’s a problem!” Braeburn shouted in alarm. “They’ve been tryin’ ta make us move our apple trees ever since we started plantin’ ‘em! When we were startin’ ta make the town, they came along n’ tried ta stop us. If we hadn’t made ‘em leave, who knows what they would’a done?”

“Did they explain why they wanted you to move the trees?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well…” Braeburn said in consideration. “Ta be honest, ah can’t rightly say why. Soon as they said ta move ‘em, we done pelted rotten apples at ‘em.”

“Well, that’s not very nice,” Fluttershy said.

“Yes,” Rarity said. “Yes, it is important to have a good supply of food, but, if these buffalo are asking you to move the trees, there must be a good reason why.”

“Even if they did,” Braeburn said. “Plantin’ our trees weren’t easy. We’re a strictly earth pony town. We ain’t got magic ta lighten the load. Heck, we ain’t even finished our hospital yet.”

“Perhaps it would be better if we talked to the buffalo properly,” Fluttershy said. “They might be able to help.”

“After tryin’ ta cut off our supply o’ food n’ git in the way o’ buildin’ this here town,” Braeburn said. “We ain’t exactly in a chattin’ mood with ‘em.”

“There has to be something we can do, Applejack,” Fluttershy said softly. “If everyone gets along not trusting each other, this could lead to a lot of trouble.”

“Far as ah’m concerned,” Applejack said. “It don’t matter why them buffalo want the settler ponies ta leave. Y’all two don’t live on no farm, so, ah wouldn’t expect ya ta understand how rump-bustin’ it can be settin’ a town up.”

“Applejack,” Rarity said. “I do understand that it’s a lot of work on building a town such as this. It does take time and effort to make the dresses and ensembles that I sell. So, I do understand where they’re coming from.”

“These here buildin’s were all made in the past year,” Braeburn said. “N’ the town still ain’t finished. Plenty o’ the ponies workin’ on the hospital break their backs workin’ on it n’ have ta go out o’ town just ta get treatment since our hospital ain’t done yet.”

“I don’t mean to criticize,” Fluttershy said. “But, maybe the hospital should’ve been one of the first buildings constructed for the town.*********”

“Sheriff Silverstar insisted on his office bein’ made first since he protects us from lawbreakers,” Braeburn said. “But, ah do see where yer comin’ from.”

“Pardon my ignorance,” Rarity said. “But, I’m fairly certain that sheriffs don’t have the authority to run a town. I believe that responsibility lies with the mayor.”

“Sheriff Silverstar IS the mayor here,” Braeburn said. “He’s also the town’s judge, construction forepony, banker, blacksmith, n’ hat maker. That last one’s more o’ a hobby fer him.”

“So,” Fluttershy said. “Everyone’s just going to carry on arguing with each other instead of coming up with a solution that works for everyone?”

“Personally,” Braeburn said. “Ah’m plum sick o’ all this back n’ forth.”

“So, do something about it,” Rarity said.

“Ah don’t rightly see what ah CAN do,” Braeburn said. “Ah’m only a farmer, carpenter, repairstallion, stationmaster, tour guide, n’ buckball champion. Them last two’re hobbies fer me.”

“Somepony may have to explain to me what buckball is some other time,” Fluttershy said. “For now, I think the answer is pretty clear on what you should do.”

Back at the buffalo camp, Rainbow and Twilight were looking from behind a rock.

“If I learn that the buffalo hurt Spike,” Rainbow whispered angrily. “They are going to get the ol’ one-two!”

“Calm down, Rainbow,” Twilight said. “We’re in their territory. Fighting could spark an interregional conflict.”

“So, what can we do?” Rainbow said. “What if they hurt Spike?”

“What if they didn’t hurt Spike?” Twilight said in response. “We need to understand their motives and why they did this.”

“Twilight has a point,” Pinkie’s voice rang out.

“Thank you, Pinkie,” Twilight said. At that, she turned to face the pink cotton candy-maned mare herself. “Pinkie?! What are you doing here?! How did you even get here without us noticing?!”

“I have my ways,” Pinkie said with a wink. “I came to rescue Spike just as you and Rainbow did.”

Rainbow held a hoof to Pinkie’s mouth.

“Well, keep it down,” Rainbow said with a whisper. “The more of us out here, the more chances there are of us getting caught.”

They suddenly heard the thundering gallop of buffalo hooves.

“I think it’s a bit late for that,” Twilight said.

The mares found themselves surrounded by buffalo.

“Uh…” Pinkie said with a timid grin. “Hi~”

“Hold it!” Spike’s voice called out.

The buffalo cleared a path and allowed Spike to meet up with the three mares.

“Spike!” Twilight happily exclaimed. She hugged him happily. “Oh, Spike, I’m so glad you’re okay!”

“Glad to see you, too, Twilight,” Spike said in a strained voice. “Some oxygen would be nice!”

Twilight heard the strain in Spike’s voice and let him go. “Sorry, I just missed seeing you.”

Spike let the air return to his lungs. “Okay, every buffalo,” Spike said. “Everything’s cool. These ponies are my friends.”

The buffalo nodded with comprehension and left.

“Twilight, you ever get the feeling you’re a few steps behind?” Rainbow asked.

“More like a full staircase in this circumstance,” Twilight said.

“Don’t worry, guys,” Spike said. “Chief Thunderhooves will explain everything as he did for me. I can’t promise he won’t badmouth ponies, though.”

“Oh, boy,” Rainbow said, feeling a slight twinge of nervousness.

“Just try not to do anything stupid, Rainbow,” Twilight said.

“Just don’t pull a Gilda,” Pinkie said.

“That, I can promise,” Rainbow said.

That night, Spike and the three mares were sitting by a campfire.

“Thank you for keeping Spike safe,” Twilight said to the buffalo. Most of them simply snorted at her while the small one gave Spike another bowl of turquoise.

“How are the turquoise, Spike?” Pinkie asked with a smile.

“You know those blue cotton candy-flavored lollipops?” Spike asked.

“Yeah,” Pinkie smiled. “We sell those sometimes at Sugarcube Corner.”

“Turquoise tastes like that,” Spike said.

“Neato,” Pinkie smiled.

“We’ve been here for hours now and we’re no closer to learning the deal with the buffalo than when we started,” Rainbow said. She then looked at the little buffalo in recognition. “You!”

“I see you have met my daughter, Little Strongheart,” Chief Thunderhooves said.

“Please accept my apologies,” Little Strongheart said. “We never meant to harm anyone.”

“You deliberately bumped yourselves into the side of a train with ponies on it, which could’ve caused a derailment,” Rainbow countered. “How do you expect that to happen without ponies getting hurt?!**********”

“You can thank Molasses for that,” Little Strongheart said. “He used his softest bump. In any case, we were really doing this to make sure the tree on the train wouldn’t be planted on our land without our permission like the other trees were.”

“Your land?” Rainbow said. “And if that was a soft bump, I’d hate to see a hard one. I still have bruises from when the car we were in tilted.”

“Even so,” Chief Thunderhooves said. “I do understand the settlers’ need for a new home, but, they carried on building their town and planting their trees without our permission.”

“What, you don’t have enough land as it is?” Rainbow said. “You didn’t have any problems stampeding near the train.”

“Would you have difficulty flying near skyscrapers when they’re close to your home?” Little Strongheart asked.

“What, you don’t know how to go around them?” Rainbow challenged.

“Do you think we haven’t tried that?” Chief Thunderhooves bellowed. “Most of us can barely fit in the space between the trees.”

“I think I can understand where you’re coming from,” Twilight said. “I mean, I wouldn’t be too happy if someone did something with something that I didn’t give them permission to do, especially if they got hurt because of it. But, I see that you do understand that the settlers need the apple trees in order to survive. So, I think it would be better if we talked to them and worked out a solution that works best for everyone.”

“Yeah,” Pinkie smiled. “And then I can plan and throw a great big party to celebrate. A Pony Settlers and Buffalo Tribe Coming Together Party! Ooh, or maybe I should have it as a Buffalo Tribe and Pony Settlers Coming Together Party. Which do you guys like better?”

“We’re in no mood to negotiate with those settlers,” Chief Thunderhooves said. “The moment we suggested moving the trees, they pelted us with rotten apples.”

“There has to be some way to come to an understanding,” Twilight said.

“Can we figure it out in the morning?” Spike asked.

“Good idea, Spike,” Twilight said. “Some rest will help clear our heads a little bit.”

The next morning in Appleloosa, Applejack was waking Fluttershy and Rarity up.

“Up n’ at ‘em, gals,” Applejack said. “We got friends ta save!”

“Oh, dear,” Rarity gasped. “They’re not back yet.”

“We’ll find them,” Fluttershy said, gently rubbing the sleepies out of one of her eyes.

Rarity quickly magicked her saddlebag on. “Packed with food and water in case the trek takes a while and some emeralds in case Spike’s hungry once we find him.”

“Good call, Rare,” Applejack said. “Let’s get a move-on.”

“Ah’m goin’, too,” Braeburn said.

“We could always use the extra helping hooves,” Fluttershy said. “But, will things be okay in town?”

“No need ta fret,” Braeburn said. “Half the settler ponies’re on the town council.”

“That seems like too big of a council,” Rarity said.

“Either way,” Braeburn said. “Let’s find yer friends.”

The four ponies barely left the town’s borders when they saw Spike, Twilight, Pinkie, and Rainbow perfectly fine.

“Hi, guys,” Pinkie smiled.

The friends happily hugged each other.

“Thank goodness you’re safe,” Rarity said to Spike. “Do you need any emeralds?”

“Thanks anyway, Rarity,” Spike said. “I filled up on turquoise before we left.”

“Good ta know ya have a full belly, Spike,” Applejack smiled. She then focused her attention on the returning party. “Oh, before we continue, y’all, this here’s mah cousin, Braeburn.”

“Howdy-do,” Braeburn said. He then looked at Spike. “So yer that Spike feller mah cousin wrote ‘bout. Mighty pleased ta make yer acquaintance.”

“You mean you don’t have a problem with me being a dragon?” Spike asked.

“Shoot, ain’t no need ta fret, half-pint,” Braeburn said. “If’n Applejack says yer on the level, well, dadgumit, that’s good’nuff fer me.***********”

“Wow, thanks,” Spike smiled.

“It’s nice to meet you, too, Braeburn,” Twilight smiled before her smile lowered into a frown. “Now, we’ve come to understand that there’s a bit of a… conflict going on between the Appleloosa Settlers and the Buffalo Tribe.”

“And that the Appleloosans started it,” Rainbow said.

“Well, yes,” Fluttershy said. “We heard about this going on as well and I can agree with you on that, Rainbow.”

Applejack, however, had a different perspective. “Ah wouldn’t expect a lazy pegasus like y’all ta understand, Rainbow,” she said.

“Who are you calling lazy?” Rainbow snapped. “If Braeburn wasn’t your cousin, you would agree that this whole mess was the settler’s fault! You’re totally being biased towards your family! You’d side with them if they decided to jump off a cliff!”

“The settlers busted their rumps out here,” Applejack said. “Y’all mostly sleep the day away er put off yer job ta practice fer them show-off Wonderbolts!”

“Uh, cousin?” Braeburn said sheepishly, holding his hat up to his chest. “This whole situation really was our fault. We did throw rotten apple cores at the Buffalo tribe.”

“Because them Buffalo don’t know how hard ya worked on it!” Applejack said.

“There, see?!” Rainbow retorted. “You’re doing it again! You’re proving my point!”

“And we do know how hard you worked,” said a new voice (new to the ones who were in Appleloosa earlier anyway).

Little Strongheart revealed herself, which sent Applejack into a loud rant.

“Ya lowdown varmint!” Applejack said. “Bad enough ya nearly kill us, but, ya dragonnap Spike n’ try ta make settler ponies starve, too? Just stampede somewhere else!”

“You plant the trees somewhere else!” Rainbow snapped.

“Where?!” Applejack challenged. “There ain’t any other plant land fer miles!”

“The Buffalo tribe had it first!” Rainbow huffed. “You have your family traditions, the Buffalo Tribe have theirs!”

“The settler ponies need it ta live!” Applejack shouted.

“ENOUGH!!!” Twilight yelled before briefly looking like she set her mane and tail on fire again. That instantly stopped the argument.

“Thank you, Twilight,” Fluttershy said, giving Twilight a canteen of water to cool her off.

Twilight drank from the canteen and began speaking calmly to Applejack and Rainbow. “Honestly, you two. This situation is bad enough already. You two helped defeat Nightmare Moon, yet, you’re acting like foals fighting over a cookie.”

“They started it,” Applejack said, pointing to Little Strongheart.

“You further prove my point,” Twilight said. “How can you be expected to represent Elements of Harmony if you waste time over petty arguments and adding to already precarious situations?************”

Applejack heard Twilight’s words and she realized she had a point. So, she took a deep breath. “Yer right, Twi. Powerful sorry. N’ Ah’m sorry to ya, too, li’l buffalo.”

“My name is Little Strongheart,” the buffalo said. “Daughter of Chief Thunderhooves.”

“Nice to meet you, Little Strongheart,” Twilight smiled.

"You met her last night," Spike pointed out.

"I was speaking on behalf of the others," Twilight said. “Now, both the Buffalo tribe and the Appleloosan settlers have perfectly good reasons to use the land. There must be something that can be done.” She then had an idea. “Braeburn, I think I have an idea. Can you rally the settlers so I can speak to the members of the town council?”

“Ya can count on me, Twi,” Braeburn said, smiling as he put his hat back on. “Ah won’t be long.”

With that, he set off to rally the settlers.

After the settlers were gathered, Twilight took up the stage.

“Okay,” she said. “Show of hooves, who’s on the town council?” Half the settlers raised a hoof. “Okay, first problem identified. Too many townsponies on the council.”

“We should arrange a meetin’ about that!” one council pony said. “N’ maybe we can talk ‘bout buildin’ the bowlin’ alley so ah can finally put mah bowlin’ alley attendant job ta use.”

“Now is not the time to discuss that!” Twilight said. She cleared her throat. “What we do need to discuss is how we can settle our differences between the Appleloosan Settlers and the Buffalo Tribe.”

The settlers began booing.

“Ah know it ain’t a topic we like ta discuss,” Braeburn said, trying to lighten the mood. “But, some friends o’ ours have been talkin’ ta the Buffalo n’ we ain’t exactly been kind ta them. So, ah think we should reconsider our treatment towards them, only in a more friendly-like way.”

“We busted our rumps out here!” one settler jeered. “We’re still bustin’ ‘em buildin’ the hospital!”

“If’n we talk ta the Buffalo,” Braeburn continued. “Maybe they can help us n’ we can help them.”

“If’n ah needed help learnin’ ta be a heartless varmint who didn’t give a hoot ‘bout back-breakin’ work,” another settler said. “Ah’d’ve stayed with mah ma!”

One could argue that that settler is being heartless right now by not giving the Buffalo a chance, Twilight thought to herself.

“That attitude right there’s addin’ ta the mess,” Braeburn pointed out. “Personally, ah’m tired o’ this back n’ forth with the buffalo. Face it, if we keep it up, ain’t nothin’ll be solved. Y’all really want ta spend the rest o’ yer lives stuck in an endless cycle o’ prejudice n’ stress?”

The townsponies heard Twilight and Braeburn’s words. For a while, none had said anything. They were giving this a deep thought. After a while, they came to understand their mistakes. Truthfully, a lot of them were equally tired of the squabbles with the buffalo.

“Ya know,” a voice from the crowd said. “These two ponies got a point. We should be more friendly-like.”

So, the settlers began to agree. Twilight and Braeburn smiled to themselves and each other.

With the Buffalo tribe, Little Strongheart and Spike were talking to the buffalo, basically giving them a similar rundown about being understanding. Chief Thunderhooves considered the words with deep thought.

“Perhaps we have been a tad too hasty on the settlers,” he said thoughtfully. “They were in need of a new place to live and flourish. So, we shall allow them to stay so they can at least have homes to go to. This young dragon speaks with wisdom greater than his age would suggest.”

Spike couldn’t help but blush modestly at Chief Thunderhooves’ words.

At noon, the buffalo were led calmly to Appleloosa. They were met with welcoming smiles from the Appleloosan settlers. Twilight’s friends, Spike, and Braeburn looked on happily as if peace had finally come. However, unforeseen circumstances would lead to bad consequences.

One Appleloosan was carrying a small crate on his back when he suddenly tripped and sent it flying on a collision course with a buffalo.

“Ouch!” the buffalo cried.

This angered the other buffalo.

“CHARGE!!!” Chief Thunderhooves bellowed.*************

The buffalo then began to stampede through the town. This frightened the Appleloosan settlers and they tried to avoid being flattened by the buffalo. Twilight, her friends, Spike, and Braeburn looked on worriedly.

“Maybe it’s too soon for me to wear this showmare costume,” Pinkie said.

“As fabulous as it is, Pinkie,” Rarity noted. “I’m afraid it is too late. Now, this land will succumb to ruin because of prejudice.”

Suddenly, Chief Thunderhooves was splattered in the face with an apple pie.

“Hmm~!” Chief Thunderhooves said, licking off the excess pie on his face. “Buffalo, stop!” At the sound of his command, the buffalo stopped charging. “I have a much better idea.”

Much later, a path for stampeding was made for the buffalo that allowed most of the trees to remain. In an area close by, some of the buffalo were treating injured and sick ponies with medicines that they made.

“This compromise is much better for all of us,” Chief Thunderhooves said kindly. “This path through the orchard will allow for us to run through while still retaining trees in good fertile soil.”

“Yeah,” Sheriff Silverstar said. “N’ yer tribe helpin’ us with yer medicines is mighty kind o’ ya. We got plenty o’ apple pies ta share with ya.”

“And we can put the uprooted trees to good use as building materials to help this community grow,” Chief Thunderhooves said.

The two leaders shook hooves in a friendly manner. Applejack then walked up to Little Strongheart.

“Hey, Little Strongheart?” Applejack said. “Ah’m powerful sorry ‘bout bein’ so biased with mah family n’ callin’ ya a varmint.”

“It’s alright,” Little Strongheart said warmly. “I know what it’s like to stick with the perspective of family, so, I understand. Thank you for apologizing.”

Twilight was pleased with the peaceful resolution. “Spike,” she said. “Take a note please.”

“You got it, Twilight,” Spike smiled after swallowing a mouthful of turquoise. He pulled out a scroll and quill from his loose scales. “Hit me with the message.”

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Friendship is a wonderful 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, and like the path cut through the orchard, there will always be a way through.

Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle”

Spike then sent the letter. “If you’ll excuse me, Pinkie needs me for the musical number she planned. Let’s hope those piano lessons she gave me paid off.”

“Okay,” Twilight smiled. “Break a leg.”

Spike, now wearing a black bowler hat, went over to the piano and took a deep breath. He started by playing a warm-up tune. Purple curtains opened on a stage and there was a large prop clamshell. It opens revealing Pinkie in her aforementioned purple and black showmare outfit. Her mane was even done up and a purple feather added a contrast of color. She then began her song.

“We may be divided
But of you all, I beg
To remember we’re all hooved
At the end of each leg~”

Just then, the tempo picked up.

“No matter what the issue
Come from wherever you please
All that fighting got you nothing
But hoof in mouth disease

Arguing’s not the way
Hey, come out and play
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~

Both our diets, I should mention
Are completely vegetarian
We all eat hay and oats
Why be at each others’ throats

You gotta share~
You gotta care~
It’s the right thing to do
And there’ll always be a way through~~~~~~~~!”

The ponies and buffalo were at pause for a moment before applauding the song. Pinkie and Spike smiled and they took a bow.

Twilight and the others saw the performance from within the audience with Twilight being careful to stay hidden so as not to make Spike nervous.

“Pinkie’s taught Spike well,” Rarity said.

“She really did,” Fluttershy smiled. “Spike took her lessons to heart.”

Twilight felt a little guilty not nurturing Spike’s musical talents all that time. Fluttershy saw this and gave Twilight a comforting pat on the shoulder.

“Not that you wouldn’t have been a good teacher, Twilight,” Fluttershy said. “You can still see that he has the eagerness to learn and that’s something he picked up from you.”

“I haven’t been a teacher at all,” Twilight said. “I was too focused on my grades and saw his music talents as a meaningless distraction.” She looked sadly at the stage. “Hearing him play the piano so beautifully made me realize I was wrong.”

“Well,” Fluttershy said. “It’s never too late to be the teacher to his student. After all, you’ve taught him other things in his life, so, I don’t see how this is any different.”

“The problem is I don’t know how to play any musical instruments,” Twilight said. “How can I teach him when I’m less skilled in music than him?”

“Ya can encourage other ponies ta teach him,” Applejack said. “If’n he’s keen on learnin’. N’ it ain’t too late fer ya ta learn how ta play somethin’ if ya wanted ta. This whole venture taught us that we can do anythin’, even settle our differences.”

“You can count on us helping nurture his talent,” Rarity said.

“Yeah,” Rainbow smiled. “We all care about Spike as much as you do, Twilight, even if we haven’t known him as long as you did. Besides, we can’t let Pinkie be the only one giving him music lessons.”

Hearing her friends talk to her about helping Spike did make Twilight’s heart feel full and tears of joy welled in her eyes. They then shared a group hug. “Thank you, everypony.”

“Ooh!” Pinkie said after she came off the stage changing out of her showgirl outfit. “A group hug?! Can we get in on it?!” She then proceeded to hug Spike and her friends before they could give a response.

“That’s Pinkie for ya,” Applejack wheezed from the tightness of the hug.

End of chapter.

Author's Notes:

Here's the next chapter.

*Idea courtesy of Rach.

**Idea by Comickook.

***Idea courtesy of me.

****Another Comickook idea.

*****Explanation for why the train was being pulled in the episode.

******Twilight being a good mother. Also, bonus points if you can correctly guess what this is a reference to.

*******Like, really? Why so many cars when there's only 7 passengers?

********First interaction between Spike and the buffalo courtesy of The Background Conquerer.

*********An excellent point.

**********Another excellent point.

***********Shows how well Braeburn knows his cousin.

************Truth bomb.

*************Little idea of mine.

Shoutouts to Comickook and The Background Conquerer for additional ideas.

If you liked this chapter, feel free to contact me via private messages if you'd like to help make future chapters.

Chapter 22: A Bird in the Hoof (S1:E22)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 22: A Bird in the Hoof

It had been two days since the situation in Appleloosa. On this particular day, Fluttershy was in a hurry. Or rather, she would soon be.

"Okay, I have a lot of animals to help today," she was saying. "Hello, Mr. Mousey. I have a tiny mouse-sized wheel-chair you."

Mr. Mousey gave a grateful squeak as Fluttershy helped him into the chair. She gently pushed him to his family. "You stay off that leg for a few days and it should heal right up." The other mice squeaked gratefully. "Okay, who's booked a check-up?"

Angel Bunny impatiently tapped Fluttershy’s leg.

"Hmm?" Fluttershy went over to Angel. "Are you hurt or sick, Angel?"

Angel shook his head and started moving his paws like clock hands.

"You… found a watch?" asked Fluttershy. "You... want to be a watch?" Then, Angel started running. "You're running! You're… running out of time?"

Losing his patience further, Angel pointed to the date on the calendar, May 16th.

"Oh, I'm running late for a very important date!" she gasped. "Sorry, animals. I'll be back soon."

She hurried out of her cottage. She wasn’t as fast as Rainbow, but, her pegasus speed was still quite high.

"The big brunch for Princess Celestia, how did I forget?" Fluttershy fretted. "Oh, we were going to do it before the Parasprite attack, but… oh, I hope there's no Parasprites this time." In her state of anxiety, she forgot that Pinkie dealt with the Parasprites before the princess arrived last time.

Fluttershy met up with Rainbow Dash on the way.

"I had to clear some clouds some of the weather team missed," she explained.

"One of my patients had an injured leg," Fluttershy told Rainbow. "It couldn't wait."

They soon reached Sugarcube Corner, which had two identical male pegasus Royal Guards at the door.

“Boy,” Rainbow said. “Those two look like they’re taking this seriously.” She then inspected them. “Have you noticed that a lot of these Royal Guards look the same?”

“Maybe they’re related?” Fluttershy guessed.

“I don’t know,” Rainbow said. “Applejack and Apple Bloom are related and they don’t look that much alike.”

“That’s true,” Fluttershy said. “Well, we can’t stand around here guessing all day. We don’t want to keep the princess waiting.”

“State your business,” one guard said as both blocked their way in.

“We’re here to meet Princess Celestia for the brunch,” Rainbow said plainly. “You saw us when it was discussed.”

“Identification, please,” the other guard said.

“I’m Fluttershy,” the yellow pegasus said. “And this is Rainbow Dash.”

“Just let them in, you two,” said the voice of Shining Armor. “They’re on the list.”

The guards heard Shining Armor’s voice. They lowered their wings and stepped to the sides, allowing the two pegasi to enter the bakery.

“Thank you,” Fluttershy said politely.

“Sorry they gave you such a hard time,” Shining Armor said. “These duplicates are devoted to whatever princess they work for, but, not the brightest bulbs.”

“So we can see,” Rainbow said.

“You must be Shining Armor,” Fluttershy smiled.

The stallion nodded. “That’s me, alright.”

“Wait,” Rainbow said. “Did you say duplicates?”

“I did,” Shining Armor said rather grimly. “A large portion of the Royal Guards are duplicates of the original Royal Guards for each breed.* Their personalities are all exactly the same. They’re devoted to whichever princess is in charge of them, but, they’re pretty one-note otherwise.”

“That would explain a lot,” Rainbow said. “But, that’s a little creepy when you think about it.”

“Yeah, but, not a lot of ponies are destined to join the Royal Guard,” Shining Armor said. “You have to make do with what you can get. Though, frankly, it sometimes feels like we’re scraping the bottom of the barrel.**”

“I see,” Fluttershy said.

Twilight entered the room, slightly stressed.

“Hey, Twily,” Shining Armor said. “You doing okay, little sis?”

“It’s so difficult monitoring my friends’ manners!” she said.

“There’s a way to help you with that, you know,” Shining Armor said.

“Please tell me!” Twilight demanded.

“Don’t,” Shining Armor said. “I’m sure your friends understand that they’re in the presence of royalty, but, you know how casual and even-tempered Princess Celestia can be.”

Twilight pointed to Applejack, who was looking nervously at the food on the table.

“Uh,” Applejack said to herself. “Which one’s the salad n’ which one’s the appetizer? N’ which one am ah s’possed ta eat first?” Despite Applejack’s stomach audibly rumbling, she didn’t want to look like a slob in front of the princess.

“It’s going to be okay, Twily,” Shining Armor smiled.

“Where’s Spike?” Fluttershy asked.

“In the kitchen, helping the Cakes bake,” Twilight explained. “Their cooking torch isn’t working well, so, he volunteered to add the flambe to the creme brulees.”

“The little guy’s doing a great job,” said the lanky co-owner of Sugarcube Corner, who was carrying a tray on top of his head. “Normally, it takes the cooking torch a while to flambé one creme brulee this well. That little tyke can do it for four in seconds.”

“And we promised to pay him well for his services,” Mrs. Cake said. The portly mare had a tray of cupcakes on her head.

“I heard that Spike’s skilled in the kitchen,” Fluttershy said. “I wouldn’t mind trying something he made.”

“Help yourself, dearie,” Mrs. Cake smiled. She tilted her head to offer a cupcake. “He made them so well, I was tempted to eat this whole batch myself.”

Fluttershy gently took a cupcake out of the tray without disturbing it. She took an experimental bite.

“Oh, wow~!” Fluttershy said with an excited tone. “These are delicious! I can see why you would be tempted to finish the whole batch.”

“Yep,” Mrs. Cake said. “Of course, I feel that way about any baked treat, so, there’s that.”

“Me, too,” Pinkie said. “It’s hard for me to keep my appetite for sweets at bay, but, I’m trying my best for the princess.”

“Remember, Pinkie,” Mrs. Cake warned. “If you see any food in front of the princess, do. Not. Eat. It.”

“You can count on me,” Pinkie said, saluting before Mrs. Cake.

Twilight, Fluttershy, and Shining Armor saw Rarity in the dress she designed for herself for the gala.

“Rarity,” Fluttershy said. “I understand that this is a big occasion with Princess Celestia being here, but, aren’t you worried about your gala dress getting dirtied?”

“Of course I am!” Rarity said. “Why else do you think I’m staying so far from other ponies?”

“You know,” Shining Armor said. “If you’re so worried about it getting dirty, you probably shouldn’t’ve worn it here in the first place.***”

“And forgive me for being so blunt,” Twilight said. “But, if you’re going to wear this now and at the gala, wouldn’t that give ponies the idea that that’s your only dress?” She then muttered, “As opposed to the dozens you make to keep your business afloat?”

Rarity gasped. “Oh, goodness, you’re right!” she said in alarm. “It might spoil the surprise for the princess! I must change at once!” She then dashed out of the bakery.

While that was happening, Mr. and Mrs. Cake were tending to the princess.

“How is everything so far, your highness?” Mr. Cake asked.

“Perfectly fine,” the princess answered.

Feeling the need to make small talk, Mrs. Cake spoke up. “Pinkie said that you have a sister.”

“Yes, I do,” Princess Celestia smiled. “Her name is Luna. She’s in bed since she is responsible for the night and protecting ponies from their nightmares.”

“How long have you had this sister?” Mr. Cake asked.

“Well,” Celestia said. “She’s about five years younger than me, so… 2023 years.”

“My,” Mrs. Cake said. “How fascinating! How come she hasn’t been publicly seen yet?”

“Over 1000 years ago,” Celestia said. “She was publicly known about.”

“Oh, dear,” Mrs. Cake gasped. “What happened?”

“Are you familiar with the tale of the Two Sisters?” Celestia asked.

“Somewhat,” Mr. Cake said.

“Luna and I are those sisters,” Celestia said.

“You mean,” Mr. Cake gulped. “That your sister was trapped in the moon for 1000 years?!”

“Yes,” Celestia said. “I’m certain you remember the day my student came to town.”

“We had heard Pinkie mention that,” Mrs. Cake said. “That was the day she returned, right?”

“Yes,” Celestia said. “Since I was in control of the moon and the stars at the time, I released her from her imprisonment. I knew that if Twilight made some friends, they would help to bring my sister back from her entrapment as Nightmare Moon.”

Twilight overheard that and was surprised. “You mean, you could’ve freed your sister at any time?!”

“It’s not so simple, my faithful student,” Celestia explained. “It takes greater magic than I alone possess to move the stars themselves.”

“I suppose that makes sense,” Fluttershy said. “I may not have magic myself, but, I have seen what Twilight was capable of when she helped to lull the Ursa Minor to sleep. Her horn turned a bright red with overuse.”

“I can’t even begin to imagine how much effort it takes to move the sun, moon, and stars,” Twilight said.

“Moving the sun is simple for me,” Celestia said. “I was born with a connection to it. The moon is smaller and has less mass than the sun, making moving it simple, too. The stars, however, are a different matter. Moving them is like moving thousands of millions of suns much further than our own.”

“I see,” Fluttershy said. “While I do appreciate the effort you put into that, I imagine Luna is happy to be able to do her responsibilities again.”

“Indeed,” Celestia said. “Her duty is so taxing that she rarely works during the day.”

Twilight suspected there was something more to the story****, but, she didn’t dare question the princess. Just then, they heard a hacking cough from a bird cage close by Princess Celestia. This caught the three present ponies’ attention.

“Oh my,” Fluttershy said. “What a sorry state that bird is in.”

“Yes,” the princess said. “Poor Philomena’s been out of sorts for days. She’s usually such a lively phoenix.”

“A phoenix?” Fluttershy asked. “I had read about them in books, but, I’ve never seen one until now.”

“A phoenix nearing its burning day is hardly a pleasant sight,” Celestia said.

Fluttershy, ever the compassionate mare, offered to help the sickly phoenix.

“Princess Celestia,” Fluttershy began. “Would it be alright if I looked after Philomena? I do know a lot about taking care of different animals and I know you have a lot of responsibilities, but, perhaps I can help her for you.”

“It just so happens that I was going to ask that of you,” Celestia said. “Pity Sunset Shimmer isn’t around. She might be able to give you pointers.*****”

“She also has a phoenix?” Twilight asked.

“Phoebe, yes,” Celestia said. “She hatched her as part of her entrance exam and she’s been loyal to Sunset ever since. That’s a rare behavior pattern for a phoenix.”

“Intriguing,” Twilight smiled. “I read that phoenixes tend to keep to themselves. Even in the wild.”

“In any case,” Fluttershy said politely. “I will do my best to nurture Philomena for you, your highness.”

Celestia levitated a list to Fluttershy.

“I’ve made this list for those whom I have tasked to look after Philomena when I’m unable to,” she explained. “Please do your best to follow the instructions upon it to the letter.”

“Understood, Princess,” Fluttershy said.

Presently, Fluttershy gently took Philomena’s birdcage off of the stand’s hook.

“I’ll make sure to have Spike let you know when she’s recovered,” Twilight said.

“I have no doubt,” the princess said.

“If you don’t mind,” Fluttershy said. “It was nice seeing you, your highness, but, I have a phoenix to escort back to my cottage.”

“I’m afraid I have to go, too,” Celestia said. "I have a meeting with Mayor Mare."

“Of course, Princess,” Twilight said. “But, I’m so glad you could join us this afternoon.”

“The pleasure’s all mine,” Celestia responded.

So, the ponies gave Princess Celestia a fond farewell. Applejack was particularly relieved because she was finally free to eat without fear of looking bad in front of the princess.

“Whew,” Applejack smiled. “Now ah can eat somethin’.” Before she could even take a bite, Mr. Cake cleared the table with the cloth. Needless to say, the hungry farm mare wasn’t happy, something her belly wasted no time in making clear.

“Thanks for coming, everypony,” Pinkie said. She then noticed Applejack walking with one hoof against her belly. “Hey, AJ. I can’t let you walk out of here with an empty tummy. We have plenty of leftovers from the spread that I know you can work on.” She gave Applejack a stack of plates with various apple treats. The farm mare’s mouth watered as her belly continued to voice its emptiness.

“Thanks, Pinkie,” Applejack smiled. “Yer a real lifesaver.” She left while balancing the stack on her nose. Mrs. Cake noticed with curiosity.

“How does she do that?” she asked. “More importantly, why?”

“The how is easy,” Pinkie said to her plump mentor. “As for why, Mr. Cake cleared the table before she could take a bite.”

“Oh, he did, did he?” Mrs. Cake said, glancing at her skinny husband. Mr. Cake couldn’t help but sweatdrop.

Spike walked up to Twilight.

“Hi, Spike,” Twilight smiled. “How did you like working in the kitchen?”

“There’s something satisfying about preparing food for ponies,” Spike said.

“That’s good,” Twilight smiled. “Did you manage to grab some food for yourself? It’s not a good idea to work on an empty stomach.”

“Mrs. Cake made me some donuts to eat,” Spike said. “They’re as good as Donut Joe’s back in Canterlot.”

“Good to know,” Twilight smiled. “Donut Joe didn’t care if you were a dragon as long as you paid for your donuts.”

“True that,” Spike said. “Maybe on the night of the Gala, I can show Pinkie that place. Knowing her love of sweets, I bet she’ll enjoy them.******”

Meanwhile, Fluttershy took Philomena to her cottage.

“I’m back, everyone,” Fluttershy said to her little animal friends. “This is Philomena. She’s going to be here for a while. Princess Celestia asked me to take care of her.”

The animals mostly looked at the disheveled phoenix in confusion, not recognizing her species. Fluttershy then unfurled the list that Celestia gave her, looking at the first item upon it.

“When a phoenix’s burning day is approaching,” she read. “The first thing to do is keep the body at a moderate temperature. Not too hot, not too cold.”

Fluttershy took some careful thinking into how that temperature would be. She tried a blanket, but, that raised the temperature. She tried an ice pack, but, that made the temperature drop. She then tried both at the same time and that kept the temperature just right.*******

“There we go,” Fluttershy smiled. She checked the instructions. “Be sure to keep the phoenix this way for 45 minutes in preparation for the next step.” She looked to see what the next step was. “After the phoenix has been kept at a moderate temperature for the specified time, make doubly sure that the phoenix has a small bowl of sawdust.”

Fluttershy was a bit confused by the idea at first, but, she knew she had to follow the instructions.

After the 45 minutes, Fluttershy gave Philomena a small bowl of sawdust, which the Phoenix proceeded to eat.

“Hmm,” Fluttershy said to herself. “I did read that phoenixes are birds of fire, but, I must have skipped over the part where they eat sawdust.” She then checked the instructions again. “A healthy phoenix’s diet typically consists of wood fragments such as dry sticks, sawdust, or tinder. Feeding these to them will help once it’s time to burn.” Fluttershy nodded to herself at this. “After the phoenix has finished the sawdust, feed it some twigs.” Fluttershy thankfully had some spare twigs close by.

As Philomena ate the twigs, Fluttershy checked the instructions again. “Don’t put the phoenix in water under any circumstances,” she read. “Phoenixes are fire and wind elemental creatures. Getting them wet will result in unsightly swelling.” She understood the note all too well. “Applying ointment will result in blemishes.” She made sure to keep the ointments she typically uses to help her animals and herself, should they need them, out of Philomena’s reach. Afterwards, she felt a bit exhausted.

“Taking care of a phoenix sure is exhausting,” she said. “But, it will be worth the effort to help Princess Celestia.” She suddenly heard a knock at the door. “Who is it?” she called.

The door opened to reveal Spike.

“Hey, Fluttershy,” Spike said. “I came to see how things were going over here. Twilight did task me to come since I’m to report when Philomena’s well again.” He looked at Philomena and she looked slightly better. Not by much, though.

“I’ll admit,” Fluttershy said. “It is a bit of work following the instructions on Celestia’s list.”

“I’ll bet,” Spike said. “I have to say, I envy you.”

“You do?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yeah,” Spike said. “I’ve wanted to try tending to Philomena for a while. But, most of the guards don’t even let me near her.”

“I didn’t see anything in the guide that says that dragons and phoenixes are enemies,” Fluttershy said.

“It actually has little to do with that,” Spike said. “It was mostly the guards having a problem with me specifically.”

“That’s terrible of them to think,” Fluttershy said.

“I know,” Spike said. “They’d think I was plotting to get the crown jewels and using a trip to the bathroom as a cover story.********”

“It’s as if they don’t know of your sense of restraint,” Fluttershy said. “I mean, I do understand their need to protect and serve Princess Celestia, but, they should be a bit more compassionate since you’re Twilight and Celestia’s friend.”

“Some guards just can’t look past the fact that I’m a dragon,” Spike said bitterly.

“That’s not your fault, you know,” Fluttershy said kindly. “The ones that really do know you know how wonderful you are. Even if not everypony can see that, you should continue to be the best you that you can be.” She then gently rubbed Spike’s left cheek. “I’ve been making a lot of progress getting over my fear of dragons and I have you to thank for that.”

Hearing this made Spike feel much better. He hugged his Critter Whisperer friend gratefully. “Thanks, Fluttershy,” he said. “You really do embody the Element of Kindness.”

Another knock was heard at the door. Spike was a bit irritated that the mood was interrupted.

“Keep an eye on Philomena please while I answer the door,” Fluttershy said. She walked over to the door. “Who is it?”

The door opened to reveal two male pegasus Royal Guards.

“Good afternoon, miss,” one of the Royal Guards said. “We’ve come to get a status report on Philomena.”

“I’ve been following the instructions to the best of my ability,” Fluttershy said.

At that moment, the other guard noticed Spike near Philomena. “She’s under attack!” he shouted before pouncing Spike and pinning him to the ground.

“He was not attacking her!” Fluttershy said sternly. “I asked him to keep an eye on her!”

“Stand down, citizen!” the guard on Spike said. “The situation is under control!”

Both guards are suddenly engulfed in a magical aura and levitated out by an irate Shining Armor. “I told you idiots that Spike has the status report covered!” he said. “The first one to say he was suspicious of Spike because he’s a dragon gets put on latrine detail for the next month! What do you think of that?!*********”

The two guards blushed with embarrassment as Fluttershy helped Spike onto his feet. She then gave him a comforting hug.

“I am so sorry for this, Spike,” Shining Armor said. “I’ll see to it that these bigots are dealt with.”

“Thanks, Shining Armor,” Spike said.

“I must say,” Fluttershy said. “You’re an example of what a guard should be.”

“Well, if I’m going to make captain someday, I would hope so,” Shining Armor said.

“How can I ever thank you?” Fluttershy asked.

“Don’t let Spike be treated like how he was seconds ago,” Shining Armor said.

“I promise I won’t let that happen,” Fluttershy said.

“Good,” Shining Armor said. He then left with the two guards in tow.

Once they left, she turned her attention to Spike. “Are you alright?”

“Been better,” Spike said.

“Is there anything I can do to help you feel better?” she asked.

“That depends,” Spike said. “Can I help care for Philomena?”

“Of course,” Fluttershy smiled. “I trust you.”

Spike hugged her. “Thanks, Fluttershy,” he said. “It’s nice to know somepony does.” He then let go. “So, what step are you on?”

Fluttershy looked over the list and pointed to the next step. “This one here.”

Spike read it carefully. “After the phoenix has eaten the twigs, be sure to keep an eye on it as the treatment tends to make them rather excitable.”

“We can do that,” Fluttershy smiled.

“Twilight said that Philomena can be a bit of a prankster,” Spike said.

“Can she?” Fluttershy asked. “Has Twilight told you of the kinds of pranks Philomena pulls?”

“Making Twilight think she was in trouble with Celestia by bursting into flames nearby her,**********” Spike said.

“Oh, my,” Fluttershy said. “I don’t know if I like the sound of that.”

“Well, if you think about it,” Spike said. “When a phoenix is about to die, they burst into flames and rise anew from the ashes. So, them dying gets undercut by the fact that they come back to life and there’s no real consequences.***********”

“I see,” Fluttershy said. “I guess I didn’t like the idea of anypony thinking they’re in trouble or in danger.”

Philomena gave a nasty cough. Fluttershy gasped and looked over the list to see if there was anything about coughing in there. “Phoenixes close to their burning day cough feathers loose in preparation for combustion,” she read. “Normally, their feathers give them power over fire. As their burning day approaches, they lose their powers like dying embers.”

“So, it’s natural,” Spike summarized. “She’s lost quite a few.” He then remembered something. “Oh, I remembered something.” He reached into his loose scales and pulled out a red and yellow pill. “The princess told me to deliver this to you for Philomena.”

“Oh, I know how some of my animal friends are about taking medicine, especially pills,” Fluttershy said nervously.

“You want to prepare her for her burning, don’t you?” Spike asked.

“Yes,” Fluttershy said.

“Then, you have to give her the pill even if she doesn’t like it,” Spike said.

“There has to be something on the list that says how to do that,” Fluttershy said nervously. She checked the instructions. “Phoenixes can be stubborn when it comes to taking medicine. Especially when a creature they’re unfamiliar with is involved. In such cases, be prepared to force the medicine down their throat if needed.”

“Force?” Fluttershy gasped, as if she had never dreamed of using such a word. “It’s risky, but, in order to help her and for Princess Celestia, I must do what I can.” She held the pill to Philomena.

As typical with any pet bird, Philomena turned her beak away from the pill.

"Don't worry, Doctor Fluttershy knows just the trick to cure the bland taste of your medicine," Fluttershy said with a wink as she placed the pill on a plate and presented it to Philomena. She then dumped an entire box of bird seed on top of the pill, effectively covering it up. "Go on, eat it all up," Fluttershy encouraged.

Philomena sniffed the bird seed mound. Liking the smell, she pecked at the bird seed, making sure not to miss a crumb. However, she managed to avoid the pill.

"Philomena!" Fluttershy angrily exclaimed before realizing she sounded perhaps a bit too angry and lowered her voice. "Why didn't you eat the pill? If you want to stay healthy and stop coughing all the time, you have to eat it."

Philomena was still too stubborn to take the pill.

"I know it probably doesn't taste good, but, you need to take it," Fluttershy pleaded. "Pretty please? I'll give you a treat if you cooperate."

Philomena seemed soothed by Fluttershy’s kind voice. She then grabbed the pill with her beak and swallowed it whole, grimacing at the foul taste. Fluttershy gave a satisfied smile.

“Good girl,” Fluttershy smiled. She then gave Philomena a treat as promised.

Unfortunately, even after the treat, Philomena continued to be stubborn. This caused Fluttershy to worry and looked over the list for any possible notes. “Very few ponies have the patience to deal with a phoenix’s stubbornness. Those that do initially have to be more assertive.”

“Well, you’ve been working on that,” Spike said. “And Princess Luna has been helping me with my own attitude. So, we’ll do what we can with Philomena.”

The phoenix gave a raspy chirp that drove the other animals crazy.

“Oh, dear,” Fluttershy said nervously. “There has to be some way to soothe Philomena’s throat without having to use water.”

“How about singing?” Spike suggested.

“That’s a good idea, Spike,” Fluttershy said. “They do say music has charms to soothe the savage beast.” She then went to get something, returning with a hummingbird whose feathers were colored a dark green, which contrasted quite nicely with the brighter green feathers on its chin. The hummingbird proceeded to greet Philomena with a sweet sounding hum. “Philomena, this is Hummingway. He’s a hummingbird who can really hum.”

“Wait, isn’t such a creature one of the reasons you want to go to the gala?” Spike asked.

“One of them, anyway, aside from the other unique creatures I had heard about,” Fluttershy blushed. She continued explaining about Hummingway to Philomena. “Anyway, he came to me with a sore throat and he allowed me to help him. He and I can help you, too, to soothe your troubled nerves.”

"Mm-hmm!" Hummingway hummed in reply.

Fluttershy then gently cleared her throat and she began to harmonize a rather familiar tune.

“Ahh-hahh-hahh-hahh-hahh~”

Spike felt oddly soothed by Fluttershy’s vocalization. “Whoa,” he said. “I feel weirdly relaxed.”

Fluttershy smiled at this as Hummingway hummed the next part of the familiar tune.

“Hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm~”

Spike struggled to stand upright. Fluttershy set a mound of pillows behind him so he could relax on them. He sat himself down and watched the scene unfold. Fluttershy checked to see if Philomena was calmed down.

The phoenix seemed to be in a relaxed state of mind.

“There we go,” Fluttershy smiled. “Hummingway and I can keep going if you’d like.” Philomena nodded before coughing.

“Ahh-hahh-hahh-ha-haaahh~” Fluttershy continued.

“Hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm~” Hummingway followed up.

Philomena started to drift to sleep from the soothing vocal music. Fluttershy saw that Spike was about to do likewise. The pegasus gently woke him up.

“Huh, wha?” Spike muttered.

“You almost fell asleep when it’s not your naptime yet,” Fluttershy said.

“Heh,” Spike chuckled. “Guess your harmonizing is more relaxing than I remembered.” He rubbed the drowsiness out of his eyes. “Something occurred to me.”

“What’s that?” Fluttershy asked.

“You sang publicly during Winter Wrap-Up,” Spike said. “But, you haven’t really done a lot of public singing outside of that.”

“It’s easier when I’m singing alongside other ponies,” Fluttershy said. “And when I sing alongside my animal friends, it makes me feel happy. But, when I think about the idea of being all alone on a stage singing in front of a big audience, I get so nervous.”

“Ooh, stage fright,” Spike summed up. “Quite literally in this case since you’d be on a stage.”

Fluttershy nodded a bit.

“Shining Armor taught me a little trick for that,” Spike said.

“Yes?” Fluttershy asked.

“Try imagining everypony in the audience looking as ridiculously silly as possible,” Spike said.

“Hmm,” Fluttershy said. “I might have to try that at some point if I’m ever asked to perform on stage. Thanks, Spike.” She gave him a hug.

Later, Twilight came to the cottage to find Fluttershy reading a book to Philomena with Spike nestled against her.

“Hi, everyone,” Twilight said softly. “It looks like things are going well over here.”

“They sure are, Twilight,” Spike said.

“You two are incredible,” Twilight smiled. “Whenever I’m around Philomena, she’s a major hoofful. How did you manage so well, Fluttershy?”

“I followed the list that Princess Celestia gave me,” Fluttershy said. “And Spike gave me some amazing pointers.”

Twilight was confused. “How did Spike manage to give you pointers?” she asked. “You’re good with animals, after all.”

“He did offer to help me with confidence and he suggested that I sing to her when she was feeling uneasy.” Fluttershy explained. “Plus, it’s a bit different with her being a fire elemental, so, Spike’s expertise on the subject helped me, too.”

“And I only have basic knowledge of the fire element,” Spike said.

“That’s wonderful,” Twilight smiled. “Spike, you’re helping a lot of ponies today. When this is over, it’ll be your choice for dinner tonight as a way of showing my appreciation for your efforts.”

Spike was excited by the prospect. “Really?!” he said as his tail wagged.

“Really,” Twilight smiled. The next thing she knew, Spike was hugging her neck. Twilight smiled and she rubbed his back gently with her front right hoof. “I’d ask if you need any help, but, it looks like you have things under control.”

"Actually, there is one thing I'm still having trouble with," Fluttershy confessed. "For some reason, Philomena refuses to cooperate and take her medicine. I managed to get her to swallow one pill, but, every time since, I haven't had any luck."

“With something like this,” Twilight said. “You're going to need to implement some tough love.”

“That’s what I keep telling her!” Spike said.

“Then,” Twilight said. “Perhaps I can help with that, Fluttershy. I’ve had to do something similar when you were sick and too stubborn to take your medicine when you were younger, Spike.”

“I don’t remember ever being stubborn about medicine,” Spike said.

“You were still a hatchling,” Twilight said. “Okay, Flutters. Hold her still for me please.”

“Okay, she's right here," Fluttershy said nervously, before she noticed that Philomena was no longer on the couch. "Or at least, she was here just a minute ago. You must've scared her."

Twilight gasped. “Oh, no. No, no, no, no, no! What have I done?!”

“We have to find her!” Spike said.

“Who knows what would happen if Princess Celestia finds that Philomena’s lost or hurt?!” Twilight panicked.

“We can’t worry about that now, Twilight!” Fluttershy said, opening the front door. “Come on!”

Suddenly, they heard a raspy chirp that was interrupted by a cough.

“It sounds like she went this way,” Spike said, pointing a clawed finger towards the sound. Sure enough, Philomena ran out the open door when they turned away from the door to see her.

“Oh, no!” Twilight said. “I thought I had closed the door behind me! I am so sorry!”

“You did!” Fluttershy said. “I opened it again!”

“Guilt later!” Spike said. “Bird now!”

The friends nodded with determination and ran out to find Philomena.

“We have to hurry!” Twilight said. “Do you know what could happen to you if the princess learns you let her pet run away?!”

“Do you?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well,” Twilight said. “No, but, given that she’s one of the princesses of Equestria, it might be a worse predicament than just a display of bad manners. She could banish you from Equestria, throw you in a dungeon, or banish you and put you in a dungeon in the place she banished you!”

“You really think she’ll do that?” Fluttershy gasped.

“Why not?!” Twilight said. “She banished her own sister************! Or did you forget what brought us together in the first place?!”

Fluttershy gulped at the idea. “We better find Philomena quickly before Princess Celestia discovers what happened! And fast!”

“We'd better not waste anymore time," Twilight said seriously. "Knowing Philomena, she'll try to trick an unsuspecting pony into thinking she's worse than she really is." And with that, the two mares and drake set off to chase after Philomena.

They did their best to follow Philomena, but, the phoenix’s legs carried her speedily throughout different parts of Ponyville. The phoenix was also very clever. More so than the animals Fluttershy was used to.

"For a phoenix who's close to combusting, she sure is hard to find," Fluttershy said. "Maybe we should just go to Princess Celestia and tell her what happened, I'm sure the Royal Guard could find Philomena in a heartbeat."

“And risk you possibly getting banished faster?!” Twilight exclaimed. “And on top of that, the Royal Guard has better things to do than look for a missing pet! Even if they agreed, my brother said most of the Royal Guards can’t even catch a cold!”

Spike couldn’t help but snicker to himself at the remark.

“If they’re so incompetent, why are they still kept around?” Fluttershy asked.

“I don’t know!!!” Twilight said. “Does it really matter at this point?!”

“Look!” Spike called.

Philomena was on top of a fountain, which the rest of their friends were gathered by. All but one of Philomena’s feathers had fallen out. The friends thought it was just a bird statue since Philomena stayed so silent and still. Fluttershy also saw that the guards had escorted Princess Celestia into Ponyville. The princess was giving the two pegasus guards a lecture at that moment and didn’t see Philomena.

“Okay,” Fluttershy whispered to Spike and Twilight in a whisper. “I’ll fly up and grab Philomena. You keep watch over Princess Celestia in case she looks over this way.”

“What’s going on?” Rainbow asked aloud.

“Shhh,” Fluttershy shushed. “I’m on a secret mission.”

“What kind?” Applejack asked.

“A kind where I’m rescuing a pet without the risk of getting into trouble,” Fluttershy whispered. “Or worse… possibly banished.”

“The pet we’re looking for is right there,” Spike whispered as he pointed to Philomena.

“So,” Fluttershy continued in a whisper. “We have to be very, very, careful.”

At that moment, Philomena’s last feather fell out. She pretended to notion as if she was having spasms. Afterwards, she jumped off and burst into flames as she fell to the ground. Those that weren’t familiar with a phoenix’s life cycle gasped at the sight of this. Fluttershy, catching the ashes, sighed in relief.

“Okay, Philomena,” she said. “Time to rise up.”

The four mares unfamiliar with Philomena’s species looked confused. “And you girls say I’m crazy,” Pinkie said.

“That’s because you are, Pinkie,” Rainbow said. “But, this is unexpected of Fluttershy. What kind of bird just bursts into flames?”

“A phoenix,” Twilight said. “Tell them, Applejack.”

“How can ah?” Applejack asked. “Ah don’t know nothin’ ‘bout no phoenix.”

Twilight was incredulous. “But, you were sitting right next to the Princess when she explained it!”

“Sorry, Twi,” Applejack said. “Ah was more focused on tryin’ ta fill mah empty belly without lookin’ like a pig ta pay attention.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow said. “That checks out. Applejack can be pretty easily distracted by food.” That comment earned her a hoof smack to the back of her head from Applejack. “Ow!”

Princess Celestia, post her lecturing of her royal guards, walked up to the group.

“I would be happy to give a proper explanation to you mares,” she said before gesturing to the ashes. “Come now, Philomena, you’re frightening most of everypony.”

At the sound of Celestia’s voice, the ashes began to glow with brilliant warm colors. They then rose into the air and swirled into a majestic looking bird with fiery yellow eyes. The four mares could only stand back in awe.

“A living, breathing phoenix,” Rarity said. “I thought they were just a legend!”

“That’s what we thought about Nightmare Moon,” Spike said. “Look how that turned out.”

“She’s really beautiful,” Fluttershy gasped. Philomena chirped a reply. Unlike last time, this chirp sounded like a beautiful flute song. “And it sounds like her sore throat has cleared up.”

“That’s the beauty of a phoenix’s regeneration,” the princess said. “They carry their memories before burning while everything else comes back better than new.”

“Princess Celestia,” Fluttershy said. “I did my best to follow the instructions carefully with Spike and Twilight’s help, but, she’s out here because I accidentally opened the door and she ran out. I’m so sorry. If you want to banish me, throw me in the dungeon, or banish me and throw me in a dungeon to where you banished me to, I deserve it.”

“Twilight stated such possibilities, didn’t she?” Princess Celestia asked.

“Yes,” Twilight said. “But, how could I not think that that’s what you’d do? You banished Princess Luna in the moon for 1000 years.”

“I will do none of the above,” the princess said. “I don’t banish anymore.”

“You don’t?” Twilight asked.

“No,” the princess said. “I’ve long since lost count of how many problems my sister and I solved by simply banishing the cause before Luna’s banishment. Before then, we simply thought that if troublemakers were out of sight and therefore, out of mind, they couldn’t cause trouble anymore. Banishing my own sister made me realize the heartache we were causing the families of those we banished. Ever since, I’ve vowed to never banish another soul again for as long as I lived.*************”

“I see,” Twilight said. “I’m sorry, Fluttershy, for putting those ideas in your head and stressing you out.”

“This is another reason I sent you to make friends,” Celestia said. “To decrease the frequency of your anxiety attacks.”

“Thank you, Princess Celestia,” Twilight said. “I guess I shouldn’t jump to conclusions.”

“You mean like most of Ponyville did with Zecora?**************” Spike quipped.

“You’re never going to let us live that down, are you?” Rainbow asked.

“Nope,” Spike said.

“And I should also make the comparison to my guards,” Princess Celestia said. “Assuming that Spike was attacking Philomena when he was entrusted with keeping an eye on her.”

“I’m pretty sure those are the same guards who theorized me taking a trip to the bathroom was a cover story for stealing the crown jewels,” Spike said. “I don’t know for sure because so many of them look the same.”

Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow, and Pinkie looked at Spike as if they couldn’t believe what they were hearing.

“…That is the biggest load o’ manure ah ever heard!” Applejack said, breaking the silence.

“Right?!” Fluttershy said aloud.

“Why do you keep those guards around?” Rainbow asked.

“We’re trying to phase them out,” Celestia said. “The process is slow-going.”

“I’m sure my brother can help you with that,” Twilight said.

“I have little doubt,” the Princess said. “In a year or two, he could very well make captain.***************”

“That’s great,” Twilight smiled.

Philomena gave Fluttershy one of her feathers.

“Oh, it’s lovely,” Fluttershy smiled. “Thank you, Philomena.”

“This is a rare occasion indeed,” the princess said. “Phoenixes only give their feathers to one who earns their respect.”

“Since you tasked Fluttershy with looking after Philomena,” Twilight figured. “That must be why she did it.”

“Very few ponies have the patience to deal with such independent creatures,” the princess said. “The last pony to have it that I know of is Sunset Shimmer.”

“Why does that name sound familiar?” Rarity asked.

“She was the princess’ protege before me,” Twilight said. “She was mentioned after we used the Elements of Harmony.”

“Ah, that’s right,” Rarity said. “I remember her being said to be skilled in alchemy, but, dealing with a phoenix, too?”

“She hatched the phoenix’s egg during her entrance exam,” Princess Celestia explained. “That phoenix has been loyal to Sunset ever since. A rare behavior for a phoenix.”

“That’s so cool,” Rainbow said. “She sounds like she’s a pretty big deal.”

“She was a talented and ambitious student,” Celestia admitted. “Though, in the years before she disappeared, I could see that she was sad, lonely, and afraid whenever she saw me. Why she was afraid, she never said. She put too much effort into being a good student, which caused her to make mistakes.”

“I think I can see where she’s coming from,” Twilight said.

“The strangest thing is that she would regularly be covered in bruises that she would conceal with illusionary magic,” the princess said.

“The poor darling,” Rarity said. “If only we had met her. We could have helped her.”

“Sadly,” the princess said. “She fled the day before Luna’s return.”

“Ah see,” Applejack said. “How old was she when she disappeared?”

“If she were here right now,” the princess said. “She would have her 19th birthday this Summer Sun Celebration.****************”

“Maybe during the celebration,” Pinkie offered. “We can hold a party in her honor. Even though she’s not here, she should still know that she’s loved.”

Philomena seemed rather sad. Fluttershy noticed this.

“What’s wrong, Philomena?” she asked.

“The phoenix that Sunset hatched,” Celestia said. “Was Philomena’s daughter.”

Fluttershy gasped in surprise. “Did… she vanish with Sunset?”

“With Phoebe’s loyalty to Sunset, yes,” Celestia said. “Philomena misses her everyday.”

“I can understand that,” Fluttershy said. She gently comforted Philomena.

End of chapter.

Author's Notes:

Here's the next chapter.

*My explanation for why so many of the Royal Guards look the same.

**He's not wrong.

***He's not wrong.

****She's right there. More info comes later.

*****Bit of Sunset Shimmer build up.

******FORESHADOWING!!!

*******Bit of a smarter move there.

********That. That right there is incredibly stupid.

*********Shining Armor to the rescue.

**********Yes, it's a Harry Potter reference. Sue me.

***********That IS true.

************This is a more sound reason for Twilight fearing those outcomes.

*************I feel this shows that Celestia's gotten wiser over the last 1000 years.

**************He may not have used his fire breath, but, Spike sure gave a sick burn there.

***************MORE FORESHADOWING!!!

****************I feel this is a bit poetic.

I followed SuperPinkBrony12's take while expanding on phoenix lore and giving a bit of build-up for my take on Sunset Shimmer.

If you liked this chapter, feel free to contact me via private messages if you'd like to help make future chapters.

UPDATE 8/20/2023: Fixed the continuity error.

Chapter 23: The Cutie Mark Chronicles (S1:E23)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins

Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens

Chapter 23: The Cutie Mark Chronicles

It had been a week and two days since Fluttershy took care of Philomena. On that particular day, Spike and the Cutie Mark Crusaders were preparing to zipline. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom were feeling uneasy about the idea, since the height to zip down from was much higher than their clubhouse.

“Are you sure about this, Scootaloo?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Ah ain’t even heard o’ a zip-lahnin’ Cutie Mark.”

“I’m getting the impression you forgot about what you learned at the talent show,” Spike said.

“No, we haven’t forgotten,” Scootaloo said. “Yeah, we’re anxious to earn our Cutie Marks, but, we also want to try different things so we can have fun together. That, and I’ve always wanted to try this.”

“You mean you don’t have any prior experience?” Spike asked.

“No,” Scootaloo said. “How can I get experience at something if I don’t try it?”

“Did you at least get tips from somepony who’s done it before?” Spike asked.

“Yeah,” Scootaloo said, holding up a page torn out of a magazine. “An Earth pony stallion named Zip Streamline* did an article about it in Action Pony magazine. There are some great pointers in here.”

“I’m not feeling so sure about this,” Spike said.

“Come on, Spike,” Scootaloo said. “Part of being a kid is taking chances.” She then pushed him off the platform, causing him to zipline.

“WHOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAH~!” Spike screamed as he practically flew through the air securely fastened to the zipline.

The Crusaders followed in short order, all four connected by a rope. They soon reached the bottom of the zipline and ended up at the base of a tree that was collecting tree sap for maple syrup. Some of it got on them thanks to their momentum causing them to bump into the tree.

“Spike,” Apple Bloom said, slightly dizzily. “Are ya okay?”

“If you call being sticky and covered in pine needles okay,” Spike said. “How did we even get pine needles from a maple tree?”

“I think from when we were ziplining,” Sweetie Belle said. “We sped by a pine tree and some of its needles fell onto us.”

The Crusaders looked at their flanks.

“Well, we didn’t get our Cutie Marks,” Scootaloo said. “But, I would definitely want to do this again. That was fun, even if we ended up getting sticky.”

“Plan B?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“After we get all this mess off of us,” Spike said. “We’ll figure out something else.” He then looked at Scootaloo and added, “Preferably, something less dangerous.”

“I’m with Spike on that one,” Sweetie Belle said. “We could do some pillow testing or flower smelling.”

“I’m pretty sure those don’t count as talents,” Spike said. “They don’t require a lot of skill.”

Apple Bloom kicked some buckets of water to the others.

“Thanks, AB,” Scootaloo said.

“Hey, Spike,” Apple Bloom said. “Think ya can tell us how Twilight got her Cutie Mark? Ya’ve been ‘round her longer n’ us.”

“I can’t say for sure,” Spike said. “She’s had it for as long as I can remember. Maybe even longer.”

“Hey, maybe we can go ask her,” Sweetie Belle said. “And I never actually figured out how Rarity got hers, so, we can ask her, too.”

“Ah don’t think Applejack told me how she got hers,” Apple Bloom said.

“And knowing my appreciation for Rainbow,” Scootaloo added. “I think we should ask her, too.”

“Why stop there?” Spike asked. “Why not ask Fluttershy and Pinkie, too?”

“That’s a great idea, Spike,” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Not only would it be inspiring, but, it would also be cool to hear how they came to be who we know and love them today.”

“But, who should we ask first?” Apple Bloom asked.

“I don’t think it matters who we ask first,” Spike said. “They’re probably not that closely connected, anyway.”

Little did the youngsters know that the stories were indeed connected in ways Twilight and her friends themselves weren’t aware of.

Spike and the Crusaders were riding in a wagon pulled by Scootaloo on her scooter. As they rode along the path, they saw Applejack with basketfuls of apples on her back.

“Hey,” Spike said. “Let’s ask Applejack first.”

Applejack stopped walking when she heard Spike’s voice. She smiled and turned her attention to the four young friends.

“Howdy, sugarcubes,” she said. “What’d ya want ta ask me?”

“How you got your Cutie Mark,” Spike said.

“Huh,” Applejack said, somewhat quizzically. “Ah guess ah never thought o’ tellin’ y’all that story.”

“Ta be fair,” Apple Bloom said. “We never asked ‘till now.”

“Well,” Applejack said. “It started when ah was 8 years old.”

And this was the story Applejack told.

Applejack was packing a bindle stick.

‘Bout 11 years n’ a week ago, give er take a couple days, ah didn’t think ah would want to spend mah whole life livin’ on the Apple farm.

Two ponies entered her room. One was a stallion with a bright yellow coat, red mane and tail, and a green apple Cutie Mark with a yellow star in the center. The other was a mare with a peach-colored coat, frizzy orange mane and tail, and a jar of preserves as her Cutie Mark. These were Bright McIntosh and Buttercup, Applejack’s parents.

“Ya sure ya want this, Sugarcube?” Buttercup asked.

“Yes, ma,” Applejack said firmly.

“A little filly like you goin’ out inta the world all alone is a mighty scary idea,” Bright Mac said. “N’ goin’ all the way ta Manehattan would be a long journey fer ya.”

“Yer sister did it, pa,” Applejack said.

“Ah know,” he said, putting his hat up to his chest. “N’ ah miss her every day.”

“Well,” Buttercup said. “If yer sure ya want ta do this, we won’t stop ya. But, know that you’ll always have a place here at Sweet Apple Acres.”

“We’ll take ya as far as the train station,” Bright Mac said.

The filly Applejack hugged her parents lovingly. “Thanks, Ma! Thanks, Pa! Ah knew ah can count on ya!”

Applejack was walked to the train station by her parents. She was able to say goodbye to Granny Smith and a young and noticeably skinny Big McIntosh. It was a very tearful goodbye.

Ah traveled ta Manehattan overnight n’ found Braeburn n’ his sister, Sunflower, waitin’ fer me at the station the next mornin’.

Applejack walked up to a younger Braeburn, who was accompanied by a filly with a light crimson coat, a brilliant gamboge mane and tail, moderate emerald green eyes, and a white flower Cutie Mark.

“Hi there, cousin,” Braeburn smiled. “It’s wonderful to see you here.”

“Welcome to Manehattan,” the filly said.

“Thank ya fer the kind greetin’,” Applejack smiled. “Ah can’t wait ta get settled in ta mah new home.”

“Just follow me and Sunflower,” Braeburn said.

So, Braeburn and Sunflower led Applejack back to their family home. Inside waiting for them were a mare and a stallion. To Braeburn and Sunflower, they were their parents and they were Applejack’s uncle and aunt from her perspective.

“Aunt Citrus, Uncle Mostly!” Applejack said. “Thank y’all fer lettin’ me stay.”

“‘Y’all,’” Mostly said, chuckling to himself.

“Oh, it’s an absolute pleasure, Applejack,” Citrus smiled. “You are going to absolutely love living in Manehattan. Once you lose the southern accent, of course. We don’t want ponies thinking you’re an illiterate country bumpkin.” Citrus had a bit of bitterness at the end of her sentence.**

“N’ how long do ya think that’ll take?” Applejack asked.

“If you take the lessons seriously enough,” Citrus said. “A little under a day.”

Applejack couldn’t help but gulp nervously. However, she was committed to staying in Manehattan. The next night, the Orange family was hosting a dinner party. Applejack was also attending. For the occasion, Applejack’s mane was done in a fancy updo. Braeburn and Sunflower could tell that Applejack was outside of her comfort zone and consented to speak to her later.

“I say, young lady,” asked an elite stallion named Tall Order. “How are you finding Manehattan?”

“Oh, it’s simply divine,” Applejack said in a very dignified voice.

“Very well said, my dear,” Citrus whispered. Inside, though, she didn’t like the idea of Applejack acting against her normal self, but, she didn’t want anyone at the dinner party to catch on.***

“Although,” Applejack admitted. “The city noise will take some getting used to. Where I’m from, nights are so quiet, you seldom hear a peep until the rooster crows.”

“The rooster?” asked Tall Order. “Do you not have alarm clocks where you came from?”

Ah wasn’t prepared ta answer such a question. Ah didn’t want ta look like a bumpkin ta them elites. Luckily fer me, a savin’ grace came around with a call.

“Dinner is served,” said a unicorn head chef stallion.

Applejack was so relieved she didn’t have to answer the question that she dropped her fake accent as a serving tray was levitated to her.

“Thank goodness!” she said. “Bein’ a city pony’s hard work! Ah’m so hungry, ah could eat a—” Her relief was short-lived when she saw the small portions served. She sighed sadly as her belly voiced its disappointment. It was clear that city life wasn’t as glamorous as she thought it was.

When ah went ta sleep that night, mah belly was empty, but, mah mind was full.

The next morning, Applejack was sitting by a window, waiting for the sunrise.

“Cock-a-doodle-doo~” Applejack said sadly. “Wonder how everypony at Sweet Apple Acres is doin’? Ah bet Pa n’ Big Mac’re buckin’ their way ta the red delicious trees about now. What ah wouldn’t give fer just one bite.”

Braeburn and Sunflower entered her room. Both were concerned for her.

“Are you okay, cousin?” Sunflower asked.

Applejack sighed. “No, not really,” she said. “Ah mean, ah love ya both n’ ah like hangin’ out with ya here, but, Manehattan ain’t exactly like ah thought it’d be.”

“You miss Ponyville, don’t you?” Braeburn summed up.

“Yeah,” Applejack sighed. Tears formed in her eyes and one streamed down her left cheek. “Ah just don’t know how Aunt Citrus adjusted ta livin’ here. Pretendin’ ta be somethin’ ya ain’t, no character buildin’ through hard work, n’ all them small meals. I ate mah food at the dinner party n’ mah belly’s been rumblin’ all night.”

“She does have an outlet though,” Braeburn said. “When she thinks nopony’s looking, Sunflower and I would hear her talking to herself in a Southern drawl. I even talk to myself with that accent every once in a while if I need to help cheer up Sunflower.”

“Our parents aren’t really that attentive,” Sunflower said. “So, we kind of envy the family values that Uncle Bright Mac teaches.”

“Yeah,” Applejack smiled. “Pa always did have some good advice.” She couldn’t help but sigh again.

Suddenly, they all heard what sounded like a distant explosion from outside the window.

“What was that?!” Sunflower exclaimed.

The three ponies looked outside and saw a rainbow pointed towards Ponyville.

It was amazin’! A rainbow pointin’ right ta home! Ah knew right then n’ there that’s where ah should go. Aunt Citrus gave me express tickets ta get me ta Ponyville in less n’ an hour.

Soon, Applejack made her way to Sweet Apple Acres, where Bright Mac and Buttercup were waiting for her.

“Ma! Pa!” Applejack said, tears of joy streaming from her eyes. “Ah’m so sorry ah left home!”

The two parents embraced their little filly when they saw a flash of light behind her.

“What matters is that yer home now,” Bright Mac smiled. “N’ it looks like ya figured out who yer s’pposed ta be.”

Applejack looked back and saw three red apples adorning her flank on either side.

Back to present day, Applejack finished the story.

“Ah’ve been happily workin’ on the farm ever since,” Applejack smiled. “A couple days later, ah met Caramel, but, that’s another story.”

“I wouldn’t mind hearing that some other time, though,” Spike noted.

“Thanks fer tellin’ us that story, sis,” Apple Bloom smiled.

“Ah better get these here apples ta Sugarcube Corner,” Applejack said.

“Wait, Applejack,” Spike said.

“What’s up, Spike?” the farm mare responded.

“You say you got your Cutie Mark 11 years ago last week?” Spike said.

“Yeah,” Applejack said. “Ah didn’t have a Cutie Mark anniversary party fer it, though.”

“Twilight told me that she got her Cutie Mark within that timeframe and that I had something to do with it,” Spike said.

“Huh,” Applejack said. “That’s a mighty powerful coincidence.” She then continued on her way.

“That is quite a coincidence, though,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “But, it’s probably just that. A coincidence.”

“Anyway,” Apple Bloom said. “We better be movin’ along. Ya never know who we’re goin’ ta meet up with next if we’re just goin’ ta hang ‘round here.”

The four youths continued their journey and soon came across Fluttershy. They were close by her cottage, but, outside of the Everfree Forest.

“Hey, Fluttershy,” Spike said.

“Hello, Spike,” Fluttershy smiled. “Hello, fillies. Are you all having a good day today?”

“Minus the zip lining earlier, yes,” Spike said. “Applejack told us the story of how she got her Cutie Mark about a minute ago.”

“Oh, that must have been a lovely story,” Fluttershy said.

“So,” Sweetie Belle said. “Since we were planning on asking other ponies that we know how they got their Cutie Marks, we were wondering if you wouldn’t mind telling us how you got yours, Fluttershy. Please.”

“Oh, I don’t mind,” Fluttershy said. “I have Rainbow Dash to thank for it.”

“Whoa, really?!” Scootaloo excitedly asked.

“Cool it, Scootaloo,” Spike said, trying to calm down the excitable young pegasus.

“Oh, sorry,” Scootaloo said sheepishly. “Continue.”

And this was the story that Fluttershy told.

This may not surprise you, but, when I was little, I was very shy. I wasn’t as strong of a flyer as I am now. In fact, my parents sent me to Summer Flight Camp so they can help me come out of my shell a little bit. I tried to improve my flying a little bit, but… It didn’t work out so well. I was awkwardly tall for a six-year-old filly****, which made me a target of teasing by Dumb-Bell and Hoops.

A young Fluttershy tried to fly, but, her efforts were rather awkward and clumsy. She slid down a cloud ramp and careened into a red flag used for pegasi racing. The two bully colts laughed meanly at her weak attempt of flying.

“Way to go, Klutzershy!” Dumb-Bell said. “It’s a joke that a tall freak like you can barely fly.”

“Yeah!” Hoops guffawed. “My baby brother can fly better than you!”

It was a very humiliating point in my life. Being made fun of for my unusual height was bad enough, but, my weak flying was worse. When it seemed like I would die of embarrassment, figuratively, somepony came to my rescue.

“You leave her alone!” snapped a young Rainbow at the two bully colts.

“Or what, Rainbow Crash?” challenged Hoops.

“Keep making fun of her and find out!” Rainbow said, her voice noticeably cracking at the end of that sentence.

“You think you’re hot stuff, slacker?” Dumb-Bell said. “Prove it.”

Full disclosure, Dumb-Bell said something different from what I’m describing, but, what he really said can’t be repeated around young ones like you.

“What do ya have in mind?” Rainbow asked confidently.

A short time later, the two colts and one filly were lined up at the starting line of the Summer Flight Camp’s race course. Fluttershy was holding the checkered flag.

“You’re goin’ down!” Hoops said haughtily.

“In history, maybe,” Rainbow retorted. “See you boys at the finish line… tomorrow!”

Fluttershy waved the flag to start the race. However, in the commotion of starting the race, Dumb-Bell knocked Fluttershy off of the cloud that she was standing on. The yellow pegasus began plummeting to the ground below. With Fluttershy being such a weak flyer, she couldn’t stop herself from falling. However, just before she hit the ground, a large flurry of butterflies caught her fall.

Back in present day, Spike was pinching his brow as if processing what he just heard.

“You were saved by what?” he said, making sure he heard right. “You fell from the clouds at breakneck speed and were saved by what?”*****

“A large flurry of butterflies,” Fluttershy repeated. “I know it sounds silly, but, it’s true. I don’t know how, but, I’m not complaining.”

“And besides,” Sweetie Belle said. “If she wasn’t saved by the butterflies, she wouldn’t be alive today.”

“Continue,” Spike said in resignation.

Back to the events of the story, Fluttershy was utterly mesmerized by the beautiful creatures that helped her.

I had never seen such beautiful creatures before. Butterflies didn’t fly as high to my cloud home as they do now and I had never been near the ground before. I had heard of what they were called among other creatures I would meet, but, this would be my first time actually seeing such creatures. As I managed to get a closer look at one, I had a song come into my heart.

The young filly did indeed begin to sing. As she sang, she started to gently fly at a low level.

“What is this place filled with so many wonders
Casting its spell that I am now under
Squirrels in the trees and the cute little bunnies
Birds flying free and bees with their honey
Ho~ney~!

Oh~ what a magical place
And I owe it all to the pegasus race
If I knew the ground had so much up its sleeve
I’d have come here sooner and never leave
Yes, I love everythin~g!”

The song was abruptly interrupted by a loud explosion. The sound was quickly followed by a large burst of color that flooded the sky. The sound scared the little animals and they began to run and hide.

I wasn’t sure at the time, but, I thought I heard voices screaming “run,” over and over.

The young filly fiddled with her ears to make sure she heard right.

“Huh?” Fluttershy muttered. “Who’s saying that?” She looked around, but, couldn’t see any other ponies. She put that aside and shifted her focus to the animals. She gently lifted up the underbrush of a nearby bush and saw the rabbits huddling each other to keep themselves safe.

“Shh,” Fluttershy said softly. “It’s okay.”

“Should we trust her, mama?” a small rabbit asked a bigger one.

“She is a youngling just as you are, little one,” the mother rabbit said.

Fluttershy gasped. “You can talk?!”

The rabbits were equally surprised when Fluttershy responded as if she could understand them.

“You can understand us?” the mother rabbit gasped. “You must be a Critter Whisperer.”

“I suppose I am,” Fluttershy said. “Though, I can hear a bit of squeaking when you talk.”

“That’s how you know we’re speaking in our language,” the mother rabbit said.

“So, we can trust her?” the younger rabbit asked.

“She seems harmless enough,” the mother rabbit said.

The rabbits smiled and hopped out of their hiding place. Fluttershy then gently knocked on the bark of a tree with a knothole where some squirrels were hiding.

“You can come out,” Fluttershy said kindly.

The squirrels stuck their heads out. Fluttershy took a deep breath before sticking her head in a nearby lake to talk to the frogs under the water.

“Everything’s okay,” Fluttershy said, a noticeable gurgle in her voice from being underwater.

She raised her head out of the water, allowing the animals to gather around her.

That day, I learned that I was a Critter Whisperer, a rare gift for a pegasus.

Fluttershy’s Cutie Mark appeared on her flank.

Back in present day, Fluttershy wrapped up her story.

“That day was 11 years ago last week,” she concluded.

“Wait, really?” Spike asked. “That’s when Applejack said she got hers.”

“And Spike said that’s also when Twilight got hers, too,” Scootaloo added.

“Wow,” Fluttershy said. “That’s quite a coincidence.”

“Applejack’s headed for Sugarcube Corner,” Spike said. “You can ask her there.”

“I will,” Fluttershy smiled. “I’ll see you all later, though.”

The four youths continued onwards.

“Two coincidences in a row,” Sweetie Belle said. “Both stories had an explosion followed by a rainbow.”

“Ya don’t think?” Apple Bloom began.

“I stand by my idea that it’s a coincidence and nothing more,” Scootaloo said.

So, the four young ones continued on. They soon came across Rarity.

“Hello, young ones,” Rarity smiled. “What are you up to today?”

“We were listening to the stories of how some of your friends got their Cutie Marks,” Sweetie Belle explained. “So far, we learned how Applejack and Fluttershy got theirs.”

“How fascinating,” Rarity said.

“Yeah,” Sweetie Belle smiled. “I probably should have asked this before, but, how’d you get yours, Rarity?”

“Well,” Rarity said. “It started when I was looking over costumes I designed with my teacher, Miss Play Write.”

“Wait,” Spike said. “I thought your teacher was Miss Teaching.”

“She was my homeroom teacher,” Rarity clarified. “Play Write was my drama club teacher.”

“Oh, okay,” Spike said. “Please continue.”

And this was the story Rarity told.

Miss Play Write tasked me with the costume designs for a play on what ponies love to eat. We had put on a dress rehearsal of the performance while Play Write and I watched backstage.

Young Rarity looked at the costumes with a bit of dissatisfaction. Play Write, however, was more easily pleased with Rarity’s efforts.

“Well done, Rarity,” she said. “The costumes are very nice.”

“Nice?!” Rarity exclaimed. “They need to be spectacular! And the play is tomorrow!”

“If you’re certain, Rarity,” Play Write said.

An hour or so later, I tried every trick I knew to improve the costumes, but, nothing seemed to work as I made it to the next day. With the performance being that very night, I felt I was being pressured and I grew greatly disheartened.

“Maybe I’m not meant to be a fashionista after all,” Rarity said sadly, tears forming in her eyes.

Suddenly, her horn lit up on its own. This caused Rarity to yelp in alarm as her horn seemed to practically levitate her towards an unknown location.

“What’s going on?!” she gasped.

My horn dragged me around for a good two hours and stopped when I reached… MY DESTINY!!!

“A rock?!” Rarity shouted in frustration. “That’s my destiny?! What is your problem, horn? I followed you all the way out here for a ROCK?!” She then grunted before kicking the rock, an action she instantly regretted. “Dumb rock!”

Suddenly, she heard a loud explosion and jumped back. A large burst of color ribboned the sky and the sheer force from the explosion impacted the rock. It managed to split open revealing a virtual smorgasbord of gemstones inside. This was no ordinary rock. It was a giant geode filled with a unique variety of individually colored rainbow-quartz. Rarity was enamored with the beautiful sight inside.

I made it back just in time to add the gems to the costumes. That night, the costumes dazzled in the spotlight. The audience was just as enamored as I was and Miss Play Write was especially proud of me.

A flash of light occurred and Rarity had her Cutie Mark.

Back in present day, Rarity wrapped up her story.

“That was 11 years ago last week,” Rarity said.

The four younglings couldn’t believe their ears.

“Okay, this is getting weirder by the minute,” said Scootaloo.

“Whatever do you mean?” Rarity asked.

“That’s when Applejack and Fluttershy got their marks,” Spike said. “Twilight also told me she got hers within that same timeframe and I had something to do with it.”

“Hmm,” Rarity said. “Sounds as if you have a mystery on your hooves and claws.”

“What’s also weird is that Applejack and Fluttershy’s stories had an explosion followed by a rainbow just like yours,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Hmm,” Rarity said. “That is a fascinating connection indeed.”

“Maybe we should hear Twilight’s story next,” Spike suggested.

“Great idea, Spike,” Apple Bloom said. “Then, we’ll know what yer part in the story was.”

A short time later, Twilight met up with the four young friends.

“Well,” Twilight said when the youngsters found her. “I definitely remember hearing an explosion that day, which was 11 years ago last week, but, I didn’t see any rainbow afterwards. Then again, I wasn’t looking out the window at the time.”

“So, what happened?” Scootaloo asked.

“Before I can tell you that,” Twilight said. “I should start before my entrance exam.”

And this was the story that Twilight told.

When I was a filly, I wanted to go to the Summer Sun Festival. There, I saw the most wonderful thing I had ever seen.

The young Twilight stood on her big brother’s back with her front half resting on his head.

“Excited to see the princess, Twily?” he asked.

“Boy am I!” the filly said. “I heard she’s the most beautiful and powerful pony in all Equestria and a direct descendant of the very first unicorn!”

Shining Armor couldn’t help but chuckle at his little sister’s enthusiasm. He then looked on the stage and politely shushed her. “It’s starting,” he whispered with a smile.

Princess Celestia stepped onto the stage as unicorn Royal Guards blew a fanfare on trumpets.

The princess was every bit as beautiful as the rumors said and then some. But, it’s what happened next that was truly wonderful.

Princess Celestia illuminated her horn and she began to fly upwards. She was able to raise the sun, its light cascading upon her. Twilight’s eyes sparkled at the spectacular display. The crowd voiced their appreciation for Celestia’s efforts.

I began pouring myself into learning everything I could about magic.

Twilight, wanting to sharpen her skills with magic, focused her energy on turning the next page of the book she was reading. It did take effort, but, eventually, her magic aura was able to catch onto the page and it turned.

I would read spellbooks to bed and try practicing simpler spells as a hobby. My family was immensely supportive. So much so that my parents, Twilght Velvet and Night Light, decided to enroll me in Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. The school board accepted the application and I had never felt happier. It was a dream come true… except for one thing. I had to pass an entrance exam!

Shining Armor, Night Light, and Velvet all attended as the nervous little filly was about to have her exam. An assistant pony wheeled in a cart that had a purple and green egg resting in a nest.

“Well, Miss Sparkle?” said one of the proctors, a unicorn mare with a yellow coat and gray mane and tail.

Twilight saw that the test was to use magic to hatch the egg. Now, she had come pretty far in her studies at that point, but, this was her first time doing something along these lines.

I tried focusing my magic on the egg, but, I was so nervous about failing, I couldn’t concentrate. I knew it was the most important moment of my life, that my entire future came from the outcome of the events of this day… and I was about to blow it.

Twilight focused a lot of her energy, but, her horn could only fizzle. This filled Twilight’s heart with sadness knowing she disappointed the proctors.

“I’m sorry for wasting your time,” the sad filly said.

The proctors sternly wrote the notes of Twilight’s failed exam on their clipboards. Twilight stood there feeling sorry for herself. At that moment, though, a large boom filled the air. Outside, the window showed a large burst of color. The sound of the boom scared Twilight and a powerful burst of magical energy emerged from her horn. The burst was fired at the egg, causing it to hatch and reveal a purple and green dragon hatchling. The proctors dropped their clipboards, pencils, and jaws at the sight before Twilight’s magic began to surge.

“Mom, Dad, look out!” Shining Armor shouted in alarm. He put a magic bubble around himself and his parents.

Twilight’s magic made the proctors float and the dragon grow gigantic in seconds. Outside of the school, Princess Celestia heard the commotion going on. She used her magic to teleport inside the room. She gently placed a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder and gave her a gentle smile. The sudden appearance of Celestia calmed Twilight down and she stopped her magic. The proctors were dropped and the dragon was shrunk again. The dragon hatchling innocently picked up his tail and suckled on it, similarly to how a human baby would suck its thumb.

“What just happened?!” Shining Armor asked. “My little sister’s never done that before!”

“I-I don’t know,” Night Light stammered.

“We knew Twilight was studying hard with her magic,” Velvet said. “But, we never knew she had that much power in her!”

“Your daughter possesses an uncommonly high amount of raw magical energy than most unicorns possess,” the princess said.

“Why, thank you, your majesty,” Night Light said nervously, politely genuflecting before her. Velvet and Shining Armor followed suit.

“Her magic has resulted in the creation of a very rare treasure,” the princess said, gesturing to the hatchling.

“You mean the baby dragon?” Velvet asked.

“More than that,” the princess said. “A dragon with an innocent and pure heart.”

“So,” Shining Armor asked. “Does this mean my little sister has been accepted into your school?”

The princess nodded. “She would have gotten in with or without the birth of this little dragon.”

Twilight had gotten out of her emotional stupor once she heard what Princess Celestia said.

“I would have?” Twilight asked.

The princess nodded again. “The dragon egg part is meant to test the applicant's character - NOT their abilities. Otherwise, the school would have far fewer students or far more dragons,” she said. “Though, I admit that I wouldn’t mind more dragons.”

“Wow,” Twilight said, intrigued.

The princess cleared her throat. “Dragons have such a high resistance to pony magic where it would take four fully trained adult mages working together to hatch one of their eggs.”

“What?!” Twilight gasped. She couldn’t believe what she heard.

“It's meant to gauge how the applicant deals with failure,” the princess explained. “To better gauge how to train the applicant. But, you DIDN'T fail, which makes it even more impressive.”******

“Your majesty,” one of the proctors said. “We simply must do away with that dragon!”

“Do away with him?!” Twilight gasped. “You mean kill him?!”

“Yes,” the proctor said. “Dragons are inherently ruthless and greedy monsters. We can’t let one live in our society.”

The filly embraced the little hatchling with a look of defiant determination. “No!” she said. “I won’t let you!”*******

Princess Celestia saw this action transpire. She flew over to the proctors and gave them a very stern talking to. “As of this moment, that dragon is under my protection,” Celestia said. “Along with the family of Twilight Sparkle. Anypony who so much as threatens physical harm to him is to answer to me. Is that understood?”

The proctors caught the serious nature of Princess Celestia’s decree and they nervously nodded.

The princess went back to the little filly. “Your first task is to care for the dragon and raise him as your own.”

Twilight smiled and she genuflected before the princess. “Yes, your majesty.”

“I don’t know about this,” Velvet said nervously. “This is a dragon we’re talking about.”

“So?” Twilight said to her mother. “You’re always telling me not to judge others just because they’re different. He can’t help that he’s a dragon. He’s just a baby. He doesn’t know anything yet.”

“But, there’s a very unflattering reputation for dragons,” Night Light said. “There’s so many accounts of dragons terrorizing ponies and sometimes eating them.”

“Precisely,” Celestia said. “But, dragons are born with innocent hearts just as we are. The adult dragons corrupt their young, which is why a dragon with an innocent heart is so rare these days. This hatchling is better off growing up away from all that until he’s ready to take it.”

“Hmm,” Shining Armor said. “Perhaps we can do our part to make sure this innocence stays. After all, we did learn of the differences between the Earth Ponies, Pegasi, and Unicorns, and we’re now friends. Maybe this can be a start of ponies befriending dragons.”

Twilight made her best pleading face to her parents.

“Please~?” Twilight asked, her eyes glimmering with hope.

Velvet and Night Light looked to each other. They at last came to the conclusion that if they refused Twilight’s pleas, they would be going against everything they taught her and Shining Armor. So, they agreed to the situation.

“Okay, Twilight,” Velvet said. “We’ll let him in.”

Twilight happily hugged her family.

“Oh, thank you!” Twilight said happily.

“One more thing,” the princess said.

Twilight couldn’t imagine what this could be. “More?!” she asked curiously. The princess gestured to Twilight’s flank. Twilight gasped with amazement. “My Cutie Mark!” She then excitedly began to bounce around, saying, “Yes!” as many times as she possibly could.

Back in present day, Twilight was doing the same thing.

“Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!” Twilight said excitedly.

Spike whistled sharply, snapping Twilight out of it.

“Huh?!” Twilight gasped. She then blushed sheepishly. “Oh, sorry. I can’t help but get excited from remembering that day.”

“Question,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Yes, Sweetie Belle?” Twilight responded.

“Was that dragon Spike by any chance?” the unicorn filly asked.

“It was indeed,” Twilight said. “And he’s been in myself and my family’s care ever since.”

“No wonder you don’t remember Twilight without a Cutie Mark,” Scootaloo said. “You didn’t have long-term memory yet and she got it shortly after you hatched.”

“Yeah,” Spike smiled as he gave an affectionate hug to Twilight.

“It’s really strange,” Sweetie Belle said. “Every one of the four stories we heard thus far takes place at least 11 years ago last week and involve an explosion.”

“I better get going, though,” Twilight said. “See you at Sugarcube Corner later, Spike?”

“Sure thing, Twilight,” Spike said. After Twilight left, he spoke to the fillies. “Have you also noticed the connection here?”

“We have, yeah.” Scootaloo said. “At this point, it can’t be a coincidence. If it was once or twice, maybe. But, four out of six stories happening 11 years ago last week and involving an explosion and three of those explosions followed by a rainbow? Coincidence? I think not!”********

“I wonder if Pinkie’s story will have something to do with a rainbow, too,” Sweetie Belle said.

“You know,” Spike said. “It occurs to me that we didn’t hear the outcome of Rainbow’s race.”

“Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “We should ask her ‘bout that, too.”

“Maybe she has something to do with the rainbow and the explosion,” Spike said.

“Only one way to find out,” Scootaloo said. “Let’s go.”

So, Spike, Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom boarded the wagon while Scootaloo boarded the scooter.

“Rainbow could be anywhere in Ponyville,” Sweetie Belle said. “How are we going to find her?”

“You’re looking for Rainbow Dash?” Pinkie’s voice rang out.

“Huh?” Scootaloo said in surprise. “Pinkie? Where are you?”

“Right behind you,” the pink mare said.

Scootaloo stopped and saw that Pinkie was indeed right behind her. In fact, she was right inside the wagon that Scootaloo was towing with her scooter.

“Huh,” Scootaloo said. “That explains why pulling the wagon suddenly got heavier.”

“Anyway,” Sweetie Belle said. “We are looking for Rainbow. Do you know where she is, Pinkie?”

“Well,” Pinkie said. “If I were Dashie, I’d be at Sugarcube Corner.”

Spike rolled his eyes in amusement. “You’d also be at Sugarcube Corner if you were the old mare next door, the foals at the playground, the mail mare, basically anypony,” he said. “Come to think of it, shouldn’t you be there now?”

“I was there earlier,” Pinkie said. “But, my friends were gathering there and they told me to fetch you. Twilight would have invited you herself when she met up with you guys earlier, but, she didn’t want to separate the four of you. They said something about Cutie Mark stories.” She then had a lightbulb appear above her head and light up. “Ooh! I have an idea!” The bulb suddenly burnt out. “No, wait, I lost it.”

“Since we were all learnin’ about how yer friends got their Cutie Marks,” Apple Bloom said. “Maybe ya can tell us how ya got yer Cutie Mark, Pinkie.”

The bulb lit up again. “Hey, there’s my idea again!” she said. “I can tell you how I got my Cutie Mark!”

“Let me guess,” Spike said, deadpan. “It was 11 years ago last week.”

“Well, I didn’t get my Cutie Mark exactly on that date,” Pinkie said. “It happened 11 years and six days ago.”

“Well, that’s a little different,” Spike said. “The other four stories we heard happened 11 years ago last week.”

“But,” Pinkie said piping up. “The events of how I got my Cutie Mark started 11 years ago last week.” She pulled out snacks from her hair. “It’s quite a story, so have some snacks in case you get hungry while listening to it.”

“Is this before or after the Parasprites?” Spike asked.

“After,” Pinkie said.

And this is the story Pinkie told.

This is a part that Spike already knows, but, my sisters and I all grew up on a rock farm outside of Ponyville. There was no talking unless spoken to, there was no smiling. There were only rocks. And occasional visits from my Granny Pie. We were in the south field preparing to rotate the rocks to the east field. We had just been called inside to have lunch when all of a sudden… BOOM!

The pink filly was gathering rocks when she heard an explosion. The thick gray clouds parted from the sky from the bright colorful force, revealing a brilliant blue sky. The force from the explosion’s shock wave affected the pink filly’s mane and tail, transforming it from a straight cut to a poofy curly mess. She looked up and saw the rainbow. The sight was so amazing that she couldn’t help but smile.

Granny Pie had told me about rainbows before, but, that was the first time I ever saw one. I had never felt such joy like that before. It looked and felt so good that I just wanted to keep smiling forever. I wanted everypony to smile too, but, rainbows didn’t come around as often. So, I thought of another thing that Granny Pie told me about that helps to bring smiles.

The next day, Pinkie’s family noticed she wasn’t at breakfast.

“Has anyone seen Pinkie?” Limestone asked. “She’s not usually late for breakfast.”

“Mm-mmm,” Marble replied quietly.

“Did you three at least see her when you woke up earlier?” Igneous asked.

“I can’t say that I have,” Maud replied.

Their pondering was interrupted by the muffled sound of dance music.

“What in Celestia’s name?” Igneous said. “Another Parasprite problem?”

“It sounds like it’s coming from the silo,” Cloudy Quartz said.

The five ponies followed the sound. Certainly enough, it was indeed coming from the silo close to the Pie family house.

“Pinkamena Diane Pie,” Cloudy Quartz called. “Is that you?”

Pinkie opened the door and a bit of confetti and streamers littered the ground.

“Mom!” Pinkie chirped. “I need you, Dad, and the sisters to come in here, quick!”

The rest of her family was confused to say the least. Still, they decided to comply. They looked around them and saw that the inside of the silo was festively decorated. There were two tables adorned with a table cloth, various baked treats, and party decorations all over the place.

“Surprise!” Pinkie squeaked excitedly. “Do you like it? Granny Pie says that it’s called a party!” She waited for her family’s response.

For a while, none of them could speak. Their lips quivered and they couldn’t think of anything to say.

“Oh,” Pinkie said. “You don’t like it.”

The family didn’t want Pinkie to think that they had made Pinkie intentionally upset. At the sight of a bushel of brightly colored balloons, the family was overcome with a sudden surge of happiness and they all smiled happily. Though, Maud was still as subdued as ever.

“You like it!” cried Pinkie. The six ponies started dancing around. “I’m so happy!” Moments later, a Cutie Mark flashed on Pinkie Pie’s flank.

In the present, the Crusaders and Spike’s eyes widened.

“Another story with a rainbow and an explosion!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed.

“I would be very surprised if Rainbow Dash’s story didn’t involve that,” Spike said quietly.

“It was quite a story,” said Pinkie. “Maybe next time I can tell you about how Equestria was made!”

“I’m not sure about you telling it, Pinkie,” Spike said. “I got ogres and Songbird Serenade last time you did.”*********

The CMC raised incredulous eyebrows.

“How does a famous pop singer n’ a fictional bein’ relate ta the foundin’ o’ Equestria?” asked Apple Bloom.

“I wouldn’t be too sure about ogres being fictional,” Spike said. “That’s what was said about Nightmare Moon and look how that turned out.**********”

“Fair point,” shrugged Apple Bloom.

“Well, you do have a point, yourself, Apple Bloom,” said Pinkie. “Ogres and Songbird Serenade? Where did that even come from?”

“That’s what I asked you,” Spike said. “You change subjects on a pebble.***********”

“I’m… working on it,” Pinkie said quietly.

The five of them headed to Sugarcube Corner, where they found the other element bearers. Rainbow Dash gave a warm smile at the fillies.

“So, you and Spike want to hear my Cutie Mark story?” she asked.

“You bet I do!” Scootaloo immediately sat down. “Especially after hearing the other stories occurring at roughly the same time.”

“Well… It all happened during the race at Flight Camp,” Rainbow said. “Where I stood alone against all odds to defend Fluttershy's honor.”

“We know that from Fluttershy’s story,” Spike said. “Can you skip to the race itself?”

“Got it,” Rainbow said.

And this was the story she told.

Fluttershy lowered the flag and we all took off. I thought I heard screaming, but, I was focused on winning the race. In retrospect, that was kind of a jerk move. Anyway, as I flew as fast as I allowed myself, Dumb-Bell crashed into one of the cloud posts. It's… not as soft as one would assume. Especially for a pegasus.

“Heh, see ya,” the prismatic-maned filly smirked as she and Hoops looped through a flying hoop.

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!

Suddenly, Hoops bumped Rainbow Dash away. "Ha! Later, Rainbow Crash!"

"Hey!" cried Rainbow Dash. She shot straight down, trying to get ahead of Hoops. She went so fast, she knocked Hoops for a loop, literally.

Turns out the only thing I liked more than flying fast... was winning!

And without fully grasping what was going on, a boom and a burst of color streaked out behind Rainbow Dash.

Most people thought that the Sonic Rainboom was just an old breezie's tale. But that day... The day I discovered racing... I proved that the legends were true. I made the impossible happen!

As Rainbow streaked across the sky, her Cutie Mark appeared to the sound of many cheering colts and fillies.

Back in present day, Rainbow wrapped up her story.

“And that’s how I got my Cutie Mark,” Rainbow said.

“I was right at the epicenter of that explosion and rainbow,” Fluttershy said. “My parents brought me back to camp the next day.”

“Come again?” Rainbow blinked.

“Rainbow Dash, if you hadn't scared the animals,” Fluttershy said. “I never would have learned I was a Critter Whisperer and gotten my Cutie Mark.”

“I heard that boom!” cried Pinkie. “And right afterwards, there was this amazing rainbow that taught me to smile and I threw a party the next day and earned my Cutie Mark!” She gasped in realization. “That’s why the Sonic Rainboom at the competition felt so familiar!”

“When ah got mah Cutie Mark,” said Applejack. “Ah saw a rainbow that pointed me home after ah heard an explosion. Ah bet it was yer Sonic Rainboom!”

“There was an explosion of a rainbow I could never explain when I got my Cutie Mark,” gasped Rarity.

“This is uncanny!” Twilight gasped. “If that explosion didn't happen when it did, I would have blown my entrance exam and not hatched Spike. Rainbow Dash, I think you helped me earn my Cutie Mark, too!”

“And all this happened around 11 years ago last week!” Spike said. “That’s the connection!”

“The Rainbow Dash connection,” Fluttershy giggled. “Thank you so much, Rainbow Dash, for helping us get our Cutie Marks!”

The six mares all got into a group hug and the fillies all "awwed" at this. Spike simply gave a satisfied smile.

Pinkie suddenly gasped. “I just realized something!”

“What’s that?” Rainbow asked.

“Spike’s been in Ponyville with Twilight for nearly a year now,” Pinkie said. “And Spike’s birthday still hasn’t come!”

“What are you talking about, Pinkie?” Twilight said. “Spike’s birthday was last week.”

The other five mares and three fillies had a look of utter shock on their faces.

“Spike’s birthday was last week and you didn’t tell us?!” Rainbow said.

“I didn’t?” Twilight asked.

“I can assure you,” Spike said. “You did not. You were busy reshelving that day.”

“I’m guessing I didn’t mention that I planned a surprise party for Spike?” Twilight said. Her answer was deafening silence. “I’ll take that as a no.”

“How can a pony as smart as you be that absent-minded?” Rainbow asked.

“Yer one ta talk, Rainbow,” Applejack said. “There was that scheduled sprinkle the weather team missed.”

“Hold it!” Spike said. This caught the mares’ attention. “All six of you just discovered you had a connection before you even met. Do you really want to ruin it by arguing like this?”

“Spike’s right,” Fluttershy said. “We shouldn’t be squabbling about petty details. We should be celebrating what we did come to learn.”

Pinkie suddenly wrapped her front hooves around Spike and began hugging him tight enough to look like a stress toy being squeezed.

“We need to celebrate your birthday, Spike!” Pinkie said. “Even if it’s late, we’re still going to have the most fun party ever!”

“Choking,” Spike strained. “Not breathing!”

Pinkie realized this and she let go of Spike, allowing him to catch his breath.

“Now, it makes sense,” Rarity said. “Emeralds are your birthstone, Spike. No wonder you like them so much.”

“Yeah,” Spike smiled. “That and I like the flavor.”

“Wait,” Rainbow said. “The five of you got your Cutie Marks and Spike was born because of me?!”

“As mah brother would say, ‘Eeyup,’” Applejack said.

“I just- wow,” Rainbow said. “I’m really at a loss for words here.”

“I think I have some,” Fluttershy said. “I think that our friendship has become so strong because of both you and Twilight.” She then nuzzled Spike. “And little Spike is our connection in physical form.”

“So, this here’ll really be a hootenanny o’ a party,” Applejack smiled. She then turned her attention to the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “Since ya three heard our stories, ya want ta join in on the fun?”

“Like you even have to ask,” Scootaloo said.

“Yeah!” Apple Bloom chirped. “Let’s bust a move!”

As the party was underway, Rarity gently stroked Spike’s head.

“I feel simply awful missing your birthday, Spike,” she said.

“We all do, Rarity,” Applejack said.

“We promise to make it up to you next year,” Fluttershy said.

“That’s okay, guys,” Spike said. “I can tell that you guys didn’t mean anything personally by it. And, isn’t there an old saying, ‘Better late than never?’”

“Not to ruin the moment,” Twilight said. “But, do you think you can write to Princess Celestia, Spike?”

“It’ll be my pleasure, Twilight,” Spike smiled. He then pulled out a quill and piece of parchment.

“Dear Princess Celestia,
My friends and I have all learned an amazing lesson about friendship today. Everypony has a special connection with their friends, maybe even before they’ve met them. So, if you’re feeling lonely and you’re still searching for your true friends, just look up to the sky. Who knows? Maybe you and your friends are all looking at the same rainbow.
Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle.”

Spike finished, rolled up the parchment, and sent it away with his fire breath.

“Hey,” he said. “I just realized something.”

“What’s that?” Twilight asked.

“The Cutie Mark Crusaders also had a connection before they all officially met,” Spike said.

“Did they?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah,” Spike said. “Back when Nightmare Moon came back.”

“Hey, that’s right,” Sweetie Belle said. “We all huddled under a refreshments table.”

“You didn’t become friends until Diamond Tiara’s ego stroke************,” Spike said.

“Don’t you mean ‘cute-cenera?’” Pinkie asked.

“I know what I said, Pinkie,” Spike said.

“But, you’re right,” Scootaloo said. “We’re friends now.”

“Crusaders, huddle!” Apple Bloom said.

The three fillies huddled. Spike stood to the side, unknowing if he was included in that huddle. Soon, the fillies broke the huddle.

“Birthday drake pony pile!” the fillies said before tackling Spike and hugging him.

Spike couldn’t help but laugh happily.

“Aww~,” Pinkie said. “Spike’s getting tacuddled!”

“He’s gettin’ what now?” Applejack asked, confused.

“Tackle cuddled,” Pinkie said in slight exasperation. “Come on, that was obvious!”

“O’course,” Applejack said, a slight twinge of sarcasm present in her voice. “How silly o’ me ta not realize it sooner.”

“And me without a camera,” Rarity said.

“You can borrow mine, Rarity,” Fluttershy said. “Or, if need be, I’m sure Pinkie will put together a scrapbook of this event.”

“Way ahead of you, Flutters!” Pinkie said. “I’m calling it ‘The Dargon Boi Scapbrook!’”

“What an adorable title,” Rarity smiled. “Perhaps I can purchase a copy from you when it’s ready?”

“Are you kidding?” Pinkie said. “Everypony here and Spike gets one! No money required.”

And so, Spike had pictures taken of him alone, with one of the mares and fillies, and finally of all ten of them.

End of Chapter.

Chapter 24: Owl's Well that Ends Well (S1:E24)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell, Blake Hawkins, and Rachel Ravens

Chapter 24: Owl’s Well that Ends Well

It had been one week since the day Spike and the Cutie Mark Crusaders heard the Cutie Mark stories of Twilight and her friends. June had just begun and tonight was a special night. A meteor shower was to take place in a little over an hour and it was all anyone in Ponyville had been talking about for the past few days. Spike was putting a telescope into the red wagon.

“This is going to be amazing, Spike,” said Twilight.

“You said it,” Spike agreed, putting fruit into the wagon.

“It only happens every 100 years,” Twilight went on. “Princess Celestia says it's beautiful.”

“If she says it’s beautiful,” Spike said. “It has to be true.”

Twilight levitated a punch bowl to the wagon. “Let’s see: a picnic blanket, a telescope, fruit, fruit punch… ah, my quill, ink, and scrolls can’t forget that.”

“Way ahead of you,” Spike said as he put the following items in the wagon. “And here’s my freshly baked homemade triple-decker nut-crazy vanilla cream cookies!”

“Yum!” Twilight licked her lips. “Those will be a big hit at the celebration, my number 1 assistant.”

“Anything else you need?” Spike asked eagerly.

“Well, there is the Astronomical Astronomer’s Almanac to All Things Astronomy,” said Twilight. “I can use that to identify the planets and stars tonight.”

“Kind of feels redundant since you memorized that book from cover to cover,” Spike said. “But, you got it!”

Twilight giggled, knowing how much of a dork she can be. Nonetheless, Spike went to get the book while she went to get some warm clothes for him.

It didn't take long for Spike to find the book Twilight had mentioned. Unfortunately the book was very old and very dusty. When Spike opened it up, a cloud of dust overwhelmed him. Though he put up a valiant effort to resist the urge to sneeze, it didn’t end up mattering as he sneezed emerald green flames on the book’s pages. After his sneeze, he looked in horror as he realized what he did.

Oh no! Spike screamed mentally. How’ll I explain this to Twilight?!

“Spike!” called Twilight. “I got you some warm clothes. Come down here so you can put them on.”

“Uh… right away,” Spike hastily put the book back and rushed downstairs.

Later, the two were heading to the celebration. Many ponies were gathered and it didn’t take long to find their friends.

“Somepony borrowed the book?” asked Twilight. “I don’t remember loaning it to anypony.”

“Ponies come and go from the Ponyville library all the time,” Spike replied.

“There you are, you two,” smiled Pinkie Pie.

“Great to see you,” said Sweetie Belle. “Sit with us, Spike!” She, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo motioned to a spot in their little circle.

Spike did so while setting up the picnic spread, which Rarity took notice of.

“This looks simply divine, Spike,” she smiled. “And I see you made your freshly baked homemade triple-decker nut-crazy vanilla cream cookies. You definitely have the culinary skills of a Taurus.”

Spike looked at his feet and blushed. “Aww…”

“Little Spikey-wikey!” Pinkie Pie said sweetly, patting Spike’s head with her hoof. “Who knew that big ferocious dragon started off so cutesy wootsy?”

I rather like that nickname, Rarity thought to herself. I’ll have to ask Pinkie if I can borrow it.

“You’re one rad dragon, Spike,” said Rainbow. “I have to wonder if there are other dragons out there that are cool like you.”

“Zecora said there’s some in Farasi,” Spike said. “I’d like to go there one day and learn their culture. Zecora told me they have a folklore character who’s the god of stories, wisdom, knowledge, and trickery, most commonly depicted as a spider.*” He then shuddered uneasily. “Admittedly, that part, I could do without.”

“Ah understand that,” said Applejack. “Ah ain’t exactly thrilled ‘bout spiders.”

“I’ve been afraid of them since Shining Armor transfigured my teddy bear into one as big as an elephant,**” Spike said.

“Why would he do that?!” cried Apple Bloom.

“He said he was trying to turn it into a goblet,” Spike said. “I… don’t know what he meant by that.”

“My brother’s good with defensive and combative magic,” Twilight said. “But, he struggled with other branches. Give him a beetle to turn into a button, he’d give you a bottlecap. That’s a spell taught to first-years at magic school.”

“I guess some unicorns take to a certain set of spells more naturally than others,” said Fluttershy.

At that moment, a flash of light went across the sky.

“It’s starting!” Twilight motioned for the others to look. Spike climbed onto her back and the Crusaders jumped onto Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash’s backs to get a better view. Caramel stood beside Applejack as the farm mare put a hoof over his shoulder.

Dozens upon dozens of white flashes streaked across the sky. The ponies and dragon could only stare in awe at the spectacle.

“Celestia was right,” Twilight said to herself. “This is beautiful…”

“Oh, before I forget,” Rarity said, levitating a bowtie encrusted with gems. “I made this for Spike.”

“Oh, Rarity!” Spike gave a big smile as Rarity placed it on him. “For me? It’s… wow… thank you so much.”

“I made it using some gems Bluu gave us,” Rarity said.

“Oh yes,” said Spike. “Well, my thanks goes to him, too.”

Suddenly, Spike’s eyes began to grow heavy and he would’ve fallen into the punch bowl if not for Pinkie using her body as a cushion for him.

“The punch was almost… spiked,” Pinkie giggled to herself.

“Oh, the poor dear,” Rarity said. Though, she had to admit he looked cute sleeping like that.

“Come sail away, come sail away,” Spike sang in his sleep. “Come and sail away with me, lads~”

Twilight couldn’t help but smile seeing the sleeping drake. “Is he singing in his sleep?” Rainbow asked softly.

“Yeah, he does that sometimes,” Twilight quietly replied. “Don’t let on that you know, though. He’s very embarrassed about it.***”

Rainbow nodded quietly, understanding the situation. Caramel, the fillies, and the other mares did likewise.

After the meteor shower, Twilight brought Spike to his bed and tucked him in.

“Rest well, Spike,” Twilight said softly. She then quietly headed downstairs. She felt a slight pang of guilt. “To think that he does so much for me and my friends even when he’s so young. I shouldn’t have him working so late when he needs his sleep.” She put a hoof to her chest. “I have to find a way to make it up to him.”

She then made it to her study and began writing. To make sure she didn’t disturb Spike’s sleeping, she decided not to say aloud what she was writing. She instead stated it mentally.

The Study of Comets. Comets are small, irregularly shaped bodies that are made of non-volatile grains and frozen gasses. They have body structures that are fragile and diverse. With a surrounding cloud of material called a coma, that grows in size and brightness as the comet approaches the sun.

The next morning, Spike was still asleep. The events of last night had worn him out. Twilight woke up and saw the sleeping drake. He looks so peaceful, she said internally. After thinking it over a bit, she made a decision. I’ll let him sleep in for a while. I’ve been having him do most of the work for too long now. It’s time I start pulling my own weight like I promised him.

She quietly headed downstairs and made herself some breakfast. She had just finished it when she heard a knock at the door. It was a quiet, gentle knock. She knew at once it was Fluttershy. Twilight opened the door.

“Good morning, Fluttershy,” Twilight smiled.

“Sorry if I disturbed you,” Fluttershy said.

“You’re alright, don’t worry,” Twilight said understandingly. “So, what’s up?”

“Well,” Fluttershy said. “I couldn’t help but think about how hard Spike worked last night.”

“Yeah,” Twilight said. “I felt guilty for that, too.” She sighed. “I know I promised to go easier on all his responsibilities, but, I’m afraid he’s gotten so used to working that he’s slipping back into the way things were. Remember that bad habit he had when we first faced Nightmare Moon?”

“Oh, I do remember,” Fluttershy said. “So, I thought about that and I had an idea on how I can probably help him.”

“Please tell me, Fluttershy,” Twilight said. “The last thing I want is his old habit coming back after he’s been over it for so long.”

Fluttershy walked forward and she presented an adorable brown owl that was perched on her back. “Twilight, this is an owl I’ve had staying with me. With him being nocturnal, he can help you at night while Spike gets the rest he needs.”

“He seems pretty awake right now,” Twilight observed.

“Well,” Fluttershy said. “He’s gotten into the habit of staying up late in the day. He should be asleep by the time Spike wakes up.”

“Alright,” Twilight said. “I’ll try and see if this owl can help me. Does he have a name?”

“I named him Owlbert,****” Fluttershy said. “You can feel free to change it if you like.”

“It’s alright,” Twilight said. “But, to me, he looks like an Owlowiscious.”

The owl seemed to like that name better and flew over to Twilight. “I was hoping to ask if Spike’s okay with this arrangement,” Fluttershy said.

“I’ll make sure to talk to him,” Twilight said. “Thank you.”

A while later, Spike woke up and looked at Twilight’s alarm clock. He woke with a start when he realized it was 10:00. “Oh, no! I slept in!”

In his haste to get the day started and make things up to Twilight, he missed a step on the stairs and clumsily fell down the staircase. Twilight heard the commotion and turned her attention to see him.

“Spike!” Twilight exclaimed. “Are you alright?”

“Please don’t be mad at me, Twilight!” Spike pleaded. “I’m sorry I slept in! What do you want for breakfast?!”

“Spike, I’m not mad at you for sleeping in, don’t worry,” Twilight said. “I actually have someone I want to introduce to you.”

“That’ll have to wait!” Spike said. “I have to make your breakfast and do my morning chores!”

“You don’t have to worry about those,” Twilight explained. “They were already taken care of.”

Spike looked at Twilight as if he wasn’t sure he heard her right. “…What?”

“I said, your morning chores were already taken care of,” Twilight said. “There’s someone I want you to meet and he’ll be helping both of us.”

Spike, however, only listened to the first half. “What do you mean my morning chores were done?”

“Fluttershy came along and introduced me to someone who will be helping out,” Twilight explained. “His name is Owlowiscious. He’s our junior assistant.”

This did little to alleviate Spike’s concerns. “What do we need a junior assistant for?” he asked. “I can handle the work on my own.”

“Well, you’ve been doing a lot for me,” Twilight said. “And while I do appreciate your efforts, I was hoping he could help you a little bit, too.” She gestured to the archway leading to the library itself. “He’s in the library right now. Go introduce yourself. But, be careful and go slowly down the stairs in future.”

“Do I have to?” Spike asked.

“Yes, Spike,” Twilight said. “It’ll be a good way to make a new friend. There’s nothing to worry about. He’s not going to hurt you. Not that he even could with your scales.”

So, Spike carefully made his way into the library. He saw the owl on a perch close to a window. Said owl was visibly drowsy.*****

“So, that’s Owlowiscious,” Spike said quietly to himself. He then approached the owl.

The owl saw him and sleepily hooted a greeting.

“Uh, hi,” Spike said. “I’m Spike. Twilight said that you got my chores done for me.”

"Hoo," Owlowiscious said in reply.

“Uh, yeah,” Spike said. He then got serious. "Well, just so you know, I've been an assistant for far longer than you have. I've got seniority, so, don't get any ideas about trying to take my place!"

This surprised the owl. “Hoo?!” he hooted in alarm.

"I'm not accusing you of anything, I just thought I'd let you know. I don't need competition," Spike snorted.

The owl became offended by the insinuation and began to go into a tirade of hoots.

“I don’t know what you said,” Spike said. “But, I don’t like the way you said it.”

Owlowiscious flew over to get a sheet of parchment and dipped one of his talons into an inkwell and began scribbling a message on the parchment with it. Spike looked at it.

“That’s not really clearing anything up for me,” Spike said, deadpan.

Owlowiscious used one of his wings to make a facepalm gesture before using his feathers to point to one of his eyes.

“Uh, eye?” Spike said. Owlowiscious nodded before flying near one of the bookshelves and using one of his wings to point to the “M” in the “M Section,” sign. “Eye, M… Oh! ‘I am…’”

Owlowiscious then looked around and spotted a piece of string with a knot tied in it. He grabbed it with his talons and held it to Spike. He pointed to the knot for clarity.

“‘I, am, knot,” Spike said, trying to piece the puzzle together. Owlowiscious then positioned a wing as if cupping an ear. “Hear? ‘I, am, not, here.’”

Owlowiscious nodded and made a “four” sign with his wing.

“‘I, am, not, here, for,’” Spike continued before Owlowiscious used his wing to point to Spike. “Me? My?” He then paused as the owl gave a deadpan expression. “Wait, that doesn’t make sense in context. Uh, ‘your?’” Owlowiscious nodded. “Okay, ‘I, am, not, here, for, your…”

Owlowiscious then got a newspaper and pointed to the classifieds.

“Job,” Spike said. “You’re not here for my job?” Owlowiscious nodded and made an expression that made it clear he didn’t like the insinuation to the contrary. “Oh. Sorry about that. Did I touch a nerve?” Owlowiscious nodded and then shrugged since Spike apologized. “I didn’t mean to sound rude,” Spike said. “I don’t always take change happening without a heads up very well.”******

Owlowiscious flew up to Spike and gave him an affectionate nuzzle. It was his way to say, ‘All is forgiven.’

“I’m sure we’ll get along,” Spike said. “How about we shake on it?”

Owlowiscious extended one of his wings out to Spike. Spike grabbed it and they shook their respective appendages in a manner similar to that of humans shaking hands before the owl let out a yawn.

“Okay,” Spike smiled. “I’ll let you take care of that.”

Owlowiscious went back to his perch and went to sleep. Well, glad I don't have to worry about Fussy Feathers over there trying to steal my job, Spike thought to himself. In a matter of time, things will go back to normal and I'll still be Twilight's number one assistant.

However, it wouldn’t be long before Owlowiscious started to make Spike jealous.

About an hour later, Spike had finished his lunch break and was sitting near the open window by the stairs, reading a book about owls. Twilight and her friends were downstairs. Those that hadn’t seen Owlowiscious yet were looking him over.

“He is a mighty cute little feller,” Applejack said.

“I’ll say,” Pinkie agreed. “I’m hooked.”

“Hooked?” Rainbow said. “Really? But, yeah. I bet he’ll be fun to fly around with sometimes.”

Spike wasn’t happy about what he was hearing. “Yeah,” he said sarcastically. “He’s soo special.”

Twilight couldn’t help but overhear what Spike had said. She looked up to see him. Spike had his face stuck in the owl book, making it hard for her to see what his expression was.

“I must say,” Rarity said. “He looks as precious while sleeping as Spike’s sleep-singing.” She quickly covered her hoof as she realized what she said.

Too late, Spike already heard it. “You told them about that?!” he accused Twilight.

“I didn’t tell her,” Twilight said. “We saw you and we wanted to keep it secret, but-”

Spike didn’t give her a chance to finish explaining as he slammed the window shut and marched upstairs and later slamming the door to his and Twilight’s room shut.

“Oh dear,” Rarity said, mournfully. “I’ve upset him. I can only hope to make things right with him.”

“It sounds like Spike’s feeling threatened,” Rainbow observed.

“Yeah,” Applejack said. “Ah can tell that there’s a smidge o’ jealousy in there. We’ve all seen Spike get angry a fair number o’ times, but, they ain’t never been this bad.”

“I think he’s afraid Owlowiscious is trying to replace him,” Fluttershy said.

Twilight found that theory to be absurd. “That’s crazy,” Twilight said. “Spike knows he can’t be replaced.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow said sarcastically. “Because nothing says ‘I’m irreplaceable’ like what Spike did.”

“Well,” Twilight said. “Hopefully things will sort themselves out.”

Meanwhile, Spike was pacing in his and Twilight’s room.

“I can’t believe it,” he said to himself. “I just don't believe it. They’re trying to replace me! After everything I’ve done for Twilight over the years! Have I not been as helpful as I used to?” He puffed his chest in determination. “Well, I better step it up and make sure that Twilight and Owlowiscious both know that I'm still number one!" He then looked around and remembered that he’s the only one in the room. “I should probably stop talking to myself so much.”

Some time later after Spike came out of the room, Twilight was writing on various scrolls. Owlowiscious was starting to wake up.

“Spike,” Twilight called. "Can you fetch me that old book called Two Headed Mythological Mysteries?"

“I’m on it!” Spike said as he went to retrieve a ladder.

But, on the way to get the ladder, Owlowiscious flew up and grabbed the copy of the aforementioned book with his talons and gently placed it near Twilight. Unfortunately, Spike didn’t notice this and kept climbing, which Twilight noticed with growing concern.

“Spike!” Twilight cried.

"Hold on, Twilight, I've almost got it!" Spike said seriously. Just then, the ladder began to wobble. Spike found it hard just to keep his balance. Owlowiscious flew up and helped Spike. “I don’t need any help, bird!”

“Spike, get down before you hurt yourself!” Twilight said.

“I’ll come down after I get the book!” Spike said.

“That’s what I was trying to tell you,” Twilight called. “Owlowiscious already fetched it for me!”

This revelation caused Spike to misjudge his last step and by the time he realized this, it was too late. As he was trying to regain his footing, the ladder collapsed. It hit the floor with a loud crash.

“Are you alright?!” Twilight asked with growing concern.

Spike rose up with a loud growl, he was more angry than hurt. "Stupid ladder!" he snorted.

Twilight grew to be more concerned. “Are you okay?” she asked again.

"I've felt better, but, I'll live," Spike replied "Nothing's broken." Except maybe my pride, Spike thought to himself. Twilight sighed in relief. “Now,” Spike said. “What was it you said earlier?”

“Hmm?” Twilight asked before recalling. “Oh, yes. Owlowiscious already fetched the book for me.”

Spike was beyond irritated at this. “That completely invalidates my efforts!” he said. “If that bird already got the book for you, what was the point in asking me to get it?!*******”

“He had got it for me while you were getting the ladder,” Twilight said. “I tried to stop you, but, you were persistent.”

“Just perfect,” Spike muttered under his breath.

The next day, Twilight was writing when suddenly, her quill snapped. “Shoot!” she shouted in frustration.

Spike instantly responded. “What happened?” he asked.

“My quill broke,” Twilight explained.

"Say no more, Twilight, I'm on it!" Spike replied eagerly and he began to search for a replacement quill. It wasn't long before he was causing a commotion.

“Easy there, Spike,” Twilight said soothingly. “I’m sure if we slow down, we’ll find some more.”

Spike didn’t listen as Owlowiscious gave Twilight one of his own feathers. "Come on, come on! Where do we keep those spare quills?!" Spike said to himself, looking in every drawer and under every table and bed. He searched high, he searched low, but, no matter where he looked, he failed to find a quill.

“It’s okay, Spike,” Twilight said. “Owlowiscious gave me one of his feathers.”

This caught Spike’s attention and his further frustrations began to grow. “Well, that’s just peachy,” Spike said sarcastically. “I guess now, I’ll have to clean up my mess. Or did Owlowiscious already do that for me, too?”

“Spike, it’s okay,” Twilight said gently.

“Yeah, I just turned the place upside down for nothing!” Spike said sarcastically before getting started cleaning.

Twilight began to become more worried about Spike’s well-being. What could be making him act this way? she internally asked herself. Did he get up on the wrong side of the bed?

By the time Spike finished, he was exhausted and immediately went to sleep. Twilight saw this and she levitated him to his little bed. Oh, Spike. Even with Owlowiscious’ help, you’re working so hard.

The next morning, Spike woke up to a loud thud.

“Huh, wha-?!” Spike stammered in alarm.

He looked before him to see what had been dropped in front of him. It was the same copy of Astronomical Astronomer’s Almanac to All Things Astronomy that Spike had accidentally burnt with his fire sneeze. It was open before a stern-looking Twilight.

“Spike, what is this?” she asked sternly. “You had told me that this book was checked out, but, Owlowiscious found it in the spot where it’s supposed to be, but, in this condition. How did it get this way?”

Spike had forgotten about the book until now. Now that he remembered, he knew he had to confess. “It was an accident, Twilight. Haven't you seen me sneeze before?”

“I’ve seen you lie,” Twilight scolded. “I’m very disappointed in you, Spike. Owlowiscious and I are going to run some errands. You’re to stay here and think about what you’ve done until we get back. Do I make myself clear?”

Spike’s eyes welled with tears and he looked away from her. To him, it felt like his heart had shattered into pieces for disappointing Twilight. “Yes, Twilight,” he replied weakly before Twilight left.

Once Twilight and Owlowiscious left, Spike’s sadness turned to anger.

“That horrible Owlowiscious set me up!” Spike said angrily. “He says that he’s not out for my job, but, this proves that he lied to me! He just wants to make me look bad so that he can be Twilight’s number one assistant! Well, I’ll show them… I’ll show them both!”

He briefly considered framing Owlowiscious for killing a field mouse, but, he quickly stopped himself. “No,” he said. “I’m not resorting to that. I’d just be stooping to his level.”********

So, Spike thought of other ways to prove he could be useful. Then, it hit him. He’d clean up the library before Twilight and Owlowiscious got back. So, he grabbed a feather duster and a broom with its dust pin and started to work. He made sure to plug his nose to avoid dust tickling it, causing him to sneeze again. So, he did a thorough job of cleaning the library. He was growing exhausted from the effort, but, kept at it.

When he was finally done, the library literally sparkled and he looked at his work.

“Whew,” Spike said to himself as he removed his nose plugs. “You did good, Spike. You did really good. This’ll show Twilight that I’m number one assistant material.”

He then saw one book on the floor near one of the bookcases, which had an empty space on one of the upper shelves.

“Oh,” Spike said. “I’ll just put that away. Can’t let Twilight see that there’s a book on the floor.”

As he picked up the book, he noticed that it was very dusty and, without thinking, blew the dust off the cover. The dust from the cover tickled Spike’s nostrils. He panicked and hastened to cover his nose.

“Oh, doh!” Spike said, his nostrils plugged. “Dot again.”

But, it was too late. The sneeze made its way out, causing emerald green flames to incinerate the book in his claws. The force of the sneeze sent him into one of the bookcases, causing the books to be knocked off and pile on top of him.

“Oh, no,” Spike said nervously. “I don’t see how things could get even worse.”

“Spike!!!” Twilight’s voice called out.

“Oh,” Spike said to himself. “That’s how.”

Twilight levitated him towards her. “I would have thought you would at least be thinking of what you’ve done, but, now, not only have you gone and burnt another book, but, you’ve also made a mess in here.”

"I, uh... I was... I was just..." Spike stammered.

“Out with it, Spike!” Twilight said, making him flinch.

“I was…” Spike said. “I was just trying to prove that I was still useful to you.”

"Well, let's see here..." Twilight said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "First, you burn one of my books and lie to me about it. Then, I leave you alone for a little while and you burn another one of my books and destroy half the library! I'd say that you've done a terrific job! I have half a mind to have Owlowiscious keep an eye on you until you can prove I can trust you again."

That was the straw that broke the camel’s back. Spike’s sadness boiled over into anger and he reached his breaking point. "What?! No! No! That's it! I've had it!" Spike yelled.

“Spike, don’t-” Twilight began to say before Spike interrupted her.

"All you care about is that stupid owl! 'Owlowiscious did this. Owlowiscious did that. Owlowiscious is so helpful. Owlowiscious is so wonderful.' That's all I hear from you anymore!" Spike ranted. "That's all I've heard from you ever since he showed up! And I'm sick of it! I mean, is that the only reason you even keep me around here anymore?! So you can rub Owlowiscious in my face?! That’s bad enough, but, after everything I did for you over the years, all it takes is two accidents to make you decide I can’t be trusted?!********* If your trust can be lost so easily, why should I bucking bother trying to earn it back?!"

Twilight didn’t say anything. She listened to Spike’s words, her anger gradually turning to heartache and fear. This was the first time he’d gotten angry at her specifically and even though she could usually tame his anger, even she was starting to feel scared. If you can think of a greater testament to just how angry Spike could be than he was in that very moment, let’s hear it now.********** "N-No... I..." Twilight finally stammered, unable to believe what she just heard. "How can you say that, Spike...?"

"How? Oh, I don't know..." Spike said crossly. "Maybe it's because ever since Owlowiscious showed up, I've been busting my tail trying to do my job for you and he keeps doing it for me! Or maybe it's because ever since you hired Owlowiscious, you've only cared about him! It's like nothing that I do matters to you anymore!"

“Oh, Spike, that’s not true,” Twilight said softly. “He’s not here to take your place.”

“Bullcrap!” Spike said, now angry enough to resort to swearing. “He got you the book you specifically asked me to get for you while I ended up buried under ladder rubble, he gave you one of his feathers when I was trying to get a new quill for you, and he tattled on me to make me look bad! And what does it matter anyway?! All that matters now is that you have some creature else to boss around now and tell them what to do!”

Twilight felt as if she had been slapped across the face hard enough to give her a reality check. "Spike... If I did anything to..."

“Just forget it!” Spike shouted. “It’s clear that you don’t love me anymore! Like you ever did in the first place!” And with that, he ran upstairs to his and Twilight’s room, slamming the door behind him.

Twilight could only stand there, absorbing every word Spike said. When she finally gained the use of her senses, she turned around to see her friends outside the open door, none of them looking pleased with what transpired.

“So,” Rainbow said. “Still think Spike wouldn’t get jealous?”

“That was lower n’ a snake’s belly button, Twilight,” Applejack said. “This here mess is as much yer fault as it is Spike’s. Sure, he shouldn’ta lied ta ya, but, ah can understand why he did. Ya were lookin’ forward ta that meteor shower more n’ any o’ us n’ he might’ve been afraid ‘bout ruinin’ yer mood if’n he told the truth.”

“Applejack’s right,” Fluttershy said. “Normally, I don’t say this, but, you ought to be ashamed of yourself. He’s still a youngling and how you acted toward him was really harsh and uncalled for.”

“Do you legitimately believe Spike would make such a mess on purpose?” Rarity challenged. “Yes, he can be a bit clumsy at times, but, I know from experience that he works hard. You’ve known him longer than the rest of us.”

“And so what if he burnt two books?” Pinkie said. “You can just ask the princess to send you new copies of those burnt books. You’d think somepony as smart as you would’ve realized that.”

Twilight listened to her friends’ statements. She hung her head lowly with shame, tears welling in her eyes.

“You’re right,” Twilight said sadly, a lump forming in her throat. “You’re all right. I should have been more sympathetic towards him.”

“Spike’s clearly in no mental state to clean up this mess,” Rarity said. “If you want his trust back, you’ll have to clean it yourself.”

“I will,” Twilight said, wiping her tear-soaked face. “And right after that, I’m going up to apologize to him.”

“We’re stayin’ ta make sure ya do,” Applejack said. “Consider this a kick ta the flank fer overreactin’.”

“It was a well-deserved one,” Twilight said. And with that, she got straight to work. At some points, Fluttershy wanted to help, but, Applejack held her back. She knew that Twilight was being punished and wouldn’t learn if they helped her.***********

After the mess was cleaned, night was falling and Twilight went up and gently knocked on the bedroom door. When no answer came, Twilight opened the door anyway to reveal Spike sulking in his bed with his back facing the door.

“Spike?” Twilight asked gently. Spike refused to answer. “Are you alright?”

“What do you care?” Spike asked bitterly.

“Because I’m worried about you,” Twilight answered.

“You’re just saying that,” Spike said.

“No, I truly mean it,” Twilight said. “What I had said before was due to a lack of sympathy and understanding. You mean a lot to me, Spike, and I want to help you as you help me.”

“By just hiring a junior assistant without asking me how I felt about it first?” Spike challenged.

Twilight winced at this. “I’m sorry, Spike. I thought I was being helpful towards you, but, instead I’ve hurt you. I should have been more understanding towards you and your efforts. But, instead, I got mad at you over easily-fixable mistakes. It’s okay if you don’t forgive me. I haven’t exactly been the best friend towards you lately. I only want you to know that that’s how I feel.” Twilight turned to leave the room. “Now, I’ll just go off and… think about what I’ve done. Before I do, I just want you to know that I’ve always seen you as a son.”

At that last sentence, Spike wanted to make sure he heard right.

“What did you say, Twilight?” Spike asked.

“I said, ‘I’ve always seen you as a son,’” Twilight repeated. "Ever since that fateful day when I hatched you, I knew you would be a part of my life. I'm sorry if I don't always show it. Sometimes, I get so wrapped up in my studies that I fail to notice how I'm treating you. That is wrong, I know that now more than ever."

Spike’s eyes began to water. These weren’t tears of sorrow, however. They were tears of joy. “Are you saying what I think you are?”

“I’m saying that I love you, Spike,” Twilight said. “And I’m sorry I haven’t shown you that I do. That's something that will never change, no matter what. Sometimes, you can make it hard to love you. But, no matter what, you will always hold a special place in my heart. Nothing could ever replace you no matter how many mistakes you make. And no matter how many mistakes I make, either.” She let a tear run down her cheek. “I got Owlowiscious so that you wouldn't have to constantly wear yourself out trying to help me at night. I was afraid of your old habit coming back and thought you would appreciate having more free time."

“Wait, that’s why you hired him?” Spike asked. “Well, I guess I let the idea of him taking over really make me short-sighted and ignorant.”

“To be fair,” Twilight said. “I could have explained the situation better. I thought I already made that clear, but, after everything that happened these past couple of days, I can see that I was wrong. You have every right to be upset with me. I’ve been a terrible mother.” Suddenly, she found Spike latching onto her with a hug.

“Don’t say that, Twilight,” Spike said, tears streaming down his face. “You may not be perfect, but, ever since the first day we met and I came into this world, you were there for me when hardly anypony else was. You said it yourself that if you hadn’t intervened, I wouldn’t have made it to live this long. I owe you my life. That’s why I’ve been working so hard lately, to show how grateful I am.”

Twilight felt tears streaming down her own face and she reciprocated Spike’s hug. “It seems we both said and did things that we regretted,” she said. “But, I did mean what I said before when you said that you’re a son to me.”

“In that case…” Spike said before hugging his tail against his body. “Can I call you… ‘Mom?’”

This question made Twilight’s heart melt as she embraced the little drake and kissed his forehead and face profusely. “Of course, son!” Twilight said happily. “I remember when you were an actual baby and refused to even leave my side. The idea of you leaving me is terrifying. Especially when the last conversation we ever had would’ve been an argument.”

“Well, I’m not going anywhere,” Spike said. “Can you ever forgive me for being so jealous?”

“Only if you can forgive me for taking you for granted for so long,” Twilight said. “It’s as much my fault as it is yours. Instead of talking to you about your feelings at the start, I allowed them to fester.”

“I forgive you,” the two said in unison to each other. Suddenly, a camera flash went off.

“What the-?!” Spike asked in surprise. He then saw the rest of Twilight’s friends by the door with Pinkie holding a camera. “How long have you been there?”

“Long enough,” Rarity said.

“Mighty commendable apology, Twi,” Applejack said.

“Yeah,” Rainbow said. “About time you fessed up to feeling like a mom to Spike.”

“I think I owe you both an apology, too,” Fluttershy said, with the now awake Owlowiscious again on her back. “I was the one who introduced Owlowiscious to Twilight so he can help you, Spike. I was worried about you tiring yourself out. But, I wanted to know if you were okay with it first. I know you don’t always handle abrupt changes well. If I’d stayed and made sure Twilight did, this wouldn’t have happened.”

“Your heart was in the right place, Fluttershy,” Spike said. “I also should have been more fair to you, Owlowiscious. You had said that you weren’t here for my job and you really did mean it. Can you ever forgive me for being a jealous numbskull?”

“Hoo,” Owlowiscious said.

“He said, ‘Looking back, I can understand why you went back to thinking I was trying to take your job,’” Fluttershy translated. “‘Finding that burnt book was an accident on my part. If I had known Twilight would react so badly, I would have just left the book right where it was. The only reason I went to get the book she asked you to get was because I noticed how unstable the ladder was and decided to save you the trouble of getting it since I can fly. I offered one of my feathers as a quill in an attempt to save time and effort of looking for them since I have plenty to spare. The last thing I intended was to make you feel inferior, so, part of the blame lies on me, too. So, in summation, yes, I forgive you. Provided of course, you can forgive me.’”************

The others were surprised by such an elaborate translation.

“You got all that just from just one little ‘hoo?’” Rainbow asked.

“Owl hoots are very sophisticated,” Fluttershy said.

“Okay, then,” Spike said. “Well, I forgive you, Owlowiscious.”

“Spike,” Twilight said. “How about we write this friendship report together?”

“Really?” Spike asked excitedly as his tail wagged. “Boy, that would be a real honor!”

“Okay, clear a path, y’all,” Applejack said. “They got work ta do n’ they need ta concentrate.”

Twilight carried Spike downstairs, prepared a scroll, quill, and inkwell, and began writing.

“Dear Princess Celestia..” Twilight began. “While Spike and I have had a bit of a rough time these past few days, it has given us both the opportunity to learn a valuable lesson about friendship. For one thing, I've learned that it's important to pay attention to your friend's feelings and to reassure them if they are feeling down or troubled. If you ignore your friend's feelings, you might end up giving them the wrong idea and they may feel that they are being taken for granted, which will only upset them more.” She then gave the quill to Spike. “Your turn, Spike.”

“But it's also important to remember…” Spike continued. “...that if there is something bothering you, you don't have to keep it to yourself. Keeping it all bottled up inside will only make you feel worse and when you eventually do let it all out, you might say or do something that you'll regret. If you feel like you are being mistreated or taken for granted, you should speak up for yourself, and let your friend know how you feel, because a good friend will realize their mistakes and try to make up for them.” He then gave the quill back to Twilight. “Finish it off, Mom.”

“Your faithful student and her number one assistant/son, Twilight Sparkle and Spike,” Twilight concluded. “PS, I would like to request a day off for tomorrow.”

“Wait, what?” Spike asked. The idea of Twilight of all ponies asking for a day off was so sudden and unexpected.

“I’m giving you the day off from your duties tomorrow,” Twilight said. “I’m going to start being a better mother and do things you want to do.”

Spike was overcome with excitement and he hugged Twilight happily. “I’ll even make breakfast for you,” Twilight added.

“That’d be great!” Spike said happily. He then remembered. “Oh, I better send the letter.”

Spike held up the scroll and blew his fire breath onto it, sending the scroll to the sun princess.

“Tonight,” Twilight said. “You’re sleeping with me.”

“Sounds good, Mom,” Spike said, nuzzling Twilight. He let out a yawn. “We better turn in. It’s pretty late already.”

“And we better head home, too,” Rarity said. Spike just remembered the others were there.

“Okay, seriously,” Spike said. “Somepony needs to put bells on you mares or something.”

“Heh, sorry,” Applejack said with a sweatdrop.

With that, the friends said their goodbyes and they went back to their own homes. Twilight and Spike cuddled peacefully into the night.

End of chapter.

Chapter 25: Party of One (S1:E25)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell, Blake Hawkins, and Rachel Ravens

Chapter 25: Party of One

Two days after Twilight told Spike how she felt about him, Pinkie was planning a party for Gummy’s birthday the next day.

“This is going to be such a great time,” Pinkie said to herself. “The tasty cake, the sweet punch, the games, and all the decorations.” Gummy simply stared blankly. “You’re going to love this party, Gummy. I have a feeling that all of my best friends will be there for you.”

The next morning, Twilight woke up and saw Spike’s bed empty.

“Spike?” Twilight gasped. “Spike, where are you?!”

“I’m making breakfast, mom,” Spike said from downstairs.

“Oh,” Twilight said before breathing a sigh of relief. “Sorry for overreacting.” She looked in the mirror and brushed her mane before coming downstairs.

“That’s okay,” Spike said. “I guess you still felt worried after those arguments we had before. But, I’m doing a lot better since then and I have you to thank for that.”

“Is Owlowiscious helping?” Twilight asked.

“Not after getting feathers in the pancake batter yesterday,” Spike said.

“Ah, I see,” she said. She remembered that very well. “Besides that, how’s this new system working out?”

After the day she spent bonding with her little dragon, Twilight set up a system where Spike and Owlowiscious would work together during times when they were both awake.*

“It’s working out pretty well actually,” Spike said. “Now that Owlowiscious and I had a chance to make amends, when we do work together, we have great times together. I actually learned quite a lot about him and he learned a lot about me.”

“What have you learned from him?” Twilight asked.

“How good at charades he is,” Spike said. “I’ve also been teaching him to write Ponish like you taught me because none of us can read owlscratch.”

“Ah, that’s wonderful,” Twilight smiled. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. “Were you expecting somepony?” Twilight asked as she went to answer the door.

“No,” Spike said. “Sounds like you weren’t expecting anypony, either. Go see who it is, please, and if I need to make more breakfast for them, let me know.”

“Way ahead of you,” Twilight said. So, Twilight answered the door to see the pink Earth mare she called a friend. Twilight smiled at her. “Oh, hi, Pinkie.”

“Where’s Spike?” Pinkie asked. “This is for you and him.”

“He’s in the kitchen,” Twilight said. “He’s making breakfast for himself and myself. Would you like something?”

“No thanks,” Pinkie said. “I had a few muffins on the way here.”

“Alright,” Twilight said. She then turned her attention to the direction of the kitchen. “Spike, can you come to the front door, please? Pinkie has a message for the both of us.”

“Okay,” Spike said. “The breakfast needs time to cool down, anyway.” He then walked to the door. “Hey, Pinkie. What’s up?”

Pinkie began to sing an invitation.

“This is your singing telegram
I hope it finds you well
You’re invited to a party
‘Cause we think you’re really swell~”

Pinkie sang another verse at Rarity’s.

“Gummy’s turning one year old
So help us celebrate
The cake will be delicious
The festivities’ first rate~!”

She sang another verse at Sweet Apple Acres.

“There will be games and dancing
Bob for apples, cut a rug
And when the party’s over
We’ll gather ‘round for a group hug~”

She sang another verse at Rainbow’s cloudominium, supported by a hot-air balloon and slightly exhausted.

“No need to bring a gift
Being there will be enough
Birthdays mean having fun with friends,
Not getting lots of stuff…”

“Pinkie, are you—” Rainbow started asking before instantly being cut off by a scene change.

Pinkie was singing the final verse to Fluttershy, even more exhausted and barely able to stand.

“It won’t be the same without you
So, we hope that you say yes
So, please, oh please, R.S.V.P.
And come and be our guest…”

By the time Pinkie finished the song and gave the last invitation to Fluttershy, she was completely worn out. She only had enough strength to walk home with Gummy on her back.

“Next time,” Pinkie said hoarsely. “I think I’ll just give out written invitations.” With that, she collapsed onto the ground to catch her breath and rest her legs.

Later, Pinkie’s friends and Caramel made it to Gummy’s party. Lively music was playing on a phonograph. Applejack and Caramel were bobbing for apples in a basin. They each managed to grab the same apple with their muzzles, leaving the two to blush. Meanwhile, Spike was sampling the punch alongside Rarity.

“Mmm, this is some great punch, Pinkie,” Spike said after his sip.

“Indeed it is,” Rarity said. “Is this the same punch you used for your ‘Spring has Sprung party?’”

“Nope,” Pinkie smiled. “It’s a new recipe. It’s Gummy’s favorite.”

Spike looked at the bowl. “Uh, Pinkie?” he said. “I think Gummy might be enjoying it a little too much.”

“Why do you say that?” Pinkie asked. Pinkie and Rarity looked to see that Gummy was in the punch bowl. “Gummy, you little party animal~! I know you want to have a great birthday, but, other ponies and Spike want to enjoy the punch, too.**”

At the realization of what she was drinking, Rarity spat out the punch in her mouth. Because she wasn’t watching her aim, she ended up spraying Spike and Pinkie. “Oh dear! Terribly sorry about that.”

“It’s okay, Rarity,” Spike said, drying himself off with a towel close to the refreshments table. “Pinkie, I suggest you dispose of that contaminated batch.”

“Okay,” Pinkie said. “Thankfully I have another batch available in case we ran out.” She then took the bowl after Spike and Rarity emptied their cups back into it.

“Thank you, Pinkie,” Rarity said gratefully. She then turned her attention to Spike. “And thank you for pointing that out, Spike.”

“It’s no trouble, Rarity,” Spike said.

After returning with a fresh batch of punch, Pinkie saw Rainbow bobbing for apples alone.

“Hey, Dashie,” Pinkie said. “Be sure to keep a muzzle out for surprises.”

“Besides apples?” Rainbow asked. “What kind of surprises would be in that tub anyway?”

“I can’t tell you what they are,” Pinkie said with a giggle. “That’s why they’re called surprises. By the way, weren’t Applejack and Caramel there with you?”

“They were,” Rainbow said. “But, they both grabbed the same apple and decided to go dance together.”

“Aww,” Pinkie cooed happily. “Those two are such a perfect couple.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow smirked. She then went back to her apple bobbing. When she resurfaced, she had a tennis ball tethered to a spring in her mouth.

“You got a surprise!” Pinkie squealed happily. Suddenly, a different song started. “Ooh! This is my jam!”

She then began dancing with Twilight and Fluttershy.

“Oh, Pinkie,” Twilight smiled. “I’m having so much fun! A blast, even. I used to avoid big parties.”

“But, now that you’re on a quest to explore the value of friendship,” Pinkie said. “You can celebrate with us!”

“My brother gave me a book on dancing for my birthday,” Twilight said. “I can’t imagine why.”

“I guess he thought you were going to need it,” Pinkie said as Twilight danced rather clumsily. Pinkie was in too much of a good mood to comment on Twilight’s awkward dancing.

“Pinkie,” Fluttershy said happily. “You always throw the best parties.”

“They’re always the best because my best friends are always there!” Pinkie said.

“And we’re certainly glad to have fun spending time with each other,” Twilight smiled.

“Gummy wants to dance!” Pinkie said. “Clear the dance floor, everypony!” She bumped Fluttershy out of the way.

“Whoa!” Fluttershy yelped. Luckily, she landed on a large pile of inflated balloons. “I’m okay.”

Gummy just shambled onto the floor. He swished his little tail back and forth. The six mares, Caramel, and Spike danced around him.

“Go, Gummy~!” Pinkie cheered. “It’s your birthday. Go, Gummy! It’s your birthday!”

When the party was over, night had fallen. Spike and the ponies who didn’t live at Sugarcube Corner were about to head home.

“Hoo-wee!” Applejack sighed. “Ah’m mighty beat. Ah haven’t partied down that hard since… well, since the last party Pinkie threw.”

“When was that again?” Caramel asked.

“Back when we were celebratin’ Spike’s birthday, even when we were a mite late,” Applejack explained.

“Spike’s birthday happened?” Caramel asked.

“Ya might remember the events better after ya get some sleep.” Applejack said patiently. A yawn escaped her mouth.

Twilight had a sleeping Spike on her back. “It’s nice to see you get a chance to have fun, Spike,” Twilight said softly. She gently gave him a motherly kiss on his forehead. Spike smiled in his sleep.

“See ya later, birthday alligator,” Rainbow said to Gummy. Then, to Pinkie, she said, “Thanks for the invite.”

“We should do this again soon,” Twilight said.

“That’ll be fun,” Pinkie smiled. “See you later. Thanks for coming, everypony.” She then realized what she said and added, “You, too, Spike. We really need to start using a different blanket term so Spike doesn’t feel left out.”

Twilight gave a patient smile and said softly, “I’ll make sure to let him know that you said goodbye and thank you. He needs his rest now. He partied hard today.”

The next morning, Twilight woke up to see Spike still asleep. “I think I’ll make breakfast for us today,” she said quietly to herself. She was just about to head downstairs when she heard a knock at the door. “Hmm? Who could that be?”

She answered the door to see Pinkie at her doorstep again. “It’s soon~!” Pinkie said happily, holding a basketful of lilac purple envelopes.

“Huh?” Twilight asked in confusion.

“You said yourself,” Pinkie explained. “That we should have another party real soon and now, it’s soon.” She gives Twilight two invitations.

“When I said soon, I didn’t mean the very next day,” Twilight said.

“Aww,” Pinkie said. “Does that mean you and Spike aren’t coming to Gummy’s after birthday party?”

“Well, when does it start?” Twilight asked.

“Three o-clock this afternoon,” Pinkie explained.

“This afternoon?” Twilight asked. “As in today after 12 pm?”

“That’s right,” Pinkie smiled. “What else could I have meant by this afternoon?”

“I’m afraid I have to decline,” Twilight said. “I’m a little partied out for a while.***”

“Oh, that’s okay,” Pinkie said. “Take it easy today. Though, Spike is welcome to come if he’s up for it.”

“Could you excuse me for a bit?” Twilight asked.

“Sure,” Pinkie said. “I’ll be right here.”

Twilight went up to her and Spike’s room just as the little drake was waking up.

“Morning, Twi,” Spike said with a yawn. He started to gently rub his right eye to get the sleepies out. “What’s up?”

“Pinkie’s throwing another party this afternoon,” Twilight said.

“What?!” Spike said. “She had to pick today to throw another party?!”

“Just remember the plan and keep her distracted,” Twilight said. “I’ll give you an emerald to make it worth your while.” She quickly fed Spike an emerald before he could protest.

“Dragon keep pink pony busy,” Spike said rather submissively.

“Thank you, Spike.” Twilight whispered. “I know I wouldn’t do this ordinarily, but, for today, I have to make an exception.”

Spike headed downstairs and met with Pinkie.

“Hey, my little drake,” Pinkie said. “I bet Twilight told you about Gummy’s after-birthday party. Do you want to come?”

“Sure,” Spike said. “As long as there’s some gems or rock candy.”

“Great!” Pinkie squeaked happily. “I better go invite the others and then we’ll party it up.”

She and Spike made it to Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack was carrying a basket full of apples on her back. “What brings y’all here?” Applejack asked.

“Spike and I are here to give you and Caramel invitations for Gummy’s after birthday party this afternoon,” Pinkie smiled happily.

“This afternoon?” Applejack asked. “As in taday after high noon?”

“Yeah,” Pinkie said. “Funny, Twilight said something along those lines, too.”

Applejack looked around nervously. With her being the Element of Honesty, she had a hard time with the idea of lying and making up excuses. She then looked at the apples after Spike subtly pointed to them outside Pinkie’s field of vision.

“Uh, Pinkie,” Applejack said. “Ah’d love ta come, but, ah got apples ta pick today.” She subtly gagged before continuing to awkwardly state that she’s picking apples. “‘Cause that’s what we do ‘round here n’ all. With apples. We, uh, pick ‘em.”

Spike quietly facepalmed while Applejack looked nervous. Pinkie took in Applejack’s words. After a pause, she smiled.

“Okie dokie lokie,” Pinkie said. “If Caramel’s not busy, he can come party with Spike and me.”

“I’ll give Caramel his invite,” Spike said. “You go ahead and I’ll catch up outside Sweet Apple Acres.”

“Okie dokie, Spike,” Pinkie said. “I’m going to head over to Rarity’s next to see if she’s up to coming.”

Once Pinkie was out of earshot, Spike faced Applejack. “What was that?!” Spike asked. “You had a highly believable excuse and you could barely manage it?!”

“Ah’m sorry, Spike,” Applejack said. “Ah know we’re doin’ somethin’ nice fer her, but, it still didn’t feel right fer me ta lie.”

“You’re literally carrying freshly picked apples right now!” Spike pointed out. Applejack sighed and put her head down feeling ashamed. “It’s not like you were completely lying. Apple picking is your job, after all.”

“Ah know,” Applejack said. “But, if ah told her ah was partied out n’ then we met up later, she might get the idea that ah lied ta her.”

“And that’s preferable to ruining the surprise?” Spike asked.

“Well, ah still didn’t tell her the whole truth,” Applejack said.

“True,” Spike said. “But, I won’t be trusting you with any secrets in the future if you struggle to make believable excuses.”

“Fair ‘nuff,” Applejack sighed in defeat. At that moment, Caramel came up.

“What’s going on?” the stallion asked.

“Pinkie’s trying to throw another party this afternoon,” Spike explained.

“This afternoon?!” Caramel exclaimed. “She picked this afternoon to throw another party?!”

“Ah know!” Applejack said. “It throws a monkey wrench inta our plans!”

“I need your help keeping her distracted, Caramel,” Spike said.

“Okay,” Caramel said. “But, what if I accidentally forget that we’re supposed to keep this secret?”

“If you come close to letting it slip,” Spike said. “I’ll use my elbow to nudge you in the barrel. Deal?”

“Deal,” Caramel nodded. “I’m going with Spike now, AJ. I’ll see you later.” And he gave her a loving kiss on the cheek.

“Good thing we had Ash pick up the cake,” Spike said. “If you or the other ponies she’s going to invite showed up at Sugarcube Corner after saying they couldn’t come to her party, she’d get really suspicious.****”

“True that,” Applejack said. “See y’all later n’ be careful.”

Spike and Caramel regrouped with Pinkie. She was just outside of Carousel Boutique about to give an invitation to Rarity.

“Hi, Caramel,” Pinkie greeted happily. “Looks like you’re joining Spike and me in celebrating Gummy’s after birthday party.”

At that moment, Rarity was taking out her trash when the unexpected sight of Pinkie made her jump, causing her to accidentally spill the trash on Spike.*****

“Oh dear!” Rarity gasped. “I really should be more careful doing things with others close by me.”

Spike sniffed himself and cringed. “I better go take a bath,” he said.

“You’re welcome to use my bathtub,” Rarity offered. She then focused her attention on Pinkie and Caramel as Spike went inside. “Hello, you two. How may I help you?”

“I’m throwing Gummy an after birthday party this afternoon,” Pinkie said.

“Oh, dear,” Rarity said. “I’m afraid that after that delightful soiree you held yesterday, I’m not quite up to partying today.”

“That’s about the same thing Twilight said,” Pinkie noted.

“Is it?” Rarity asked. “Well, that is quite a coincidence.” She then headed inside.

“Oh, well,” Pinkie shrugged. “I wonder if Rainbow and Fluttershy are still up to partying.”

Inside, Rarity helped Spike wash up.

“Thanks, Rarity,” Spike said.

“The sooner you’re cleaned up, the sooner you can get back to distracting Pinkie,” Rarity said.

“Right,” Spike said. He made sure to get as clean as he possibly could. Afterwards, he regrouped with Pinkie and Caramel.

“Welcome back, Spike,” Pinkie smiled. She sniffed. “You smell great.”

Later, the trio met Rainbow and Fluttershy at the same time.

“Hey, guys,” Rainbow said. “What’s up, besides us?”

“I’m throwing an after birthday party this afternoon,” Pinkie said.

“Ah, I see,” Fluttershy said. “I would like to go, but, I’m a little partied out.”

“Same here,” Rainbow said.

“Well, okay, then,” Pinkie said. She did feel a bit disappointed since now it would be just her, Spike, and Caramel. “I guess I’ll see you around.”

Back in her loft above Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie felt a bit suspicious. “Normally, my friends would be up to partying it up with me. But, today, they’re all partied out. Did the party I threw yesterday tire them out that much?”

“Considering they partied even after the sun went down,” Spike said. “Yeah. Not everypony has as much energy as you do.”

“Maybe it wasn’t the right time to plan Gummy’s after birthday party,” Pinkie said. “Hopefully, the four of us can still have fun together.”

“Well, how about a game of I Spy?” Spike suggested.

This brightened Pinkie’s spirits a bit. “That sounds fun,” Pinkie smiled. “Since it was your idea, you can go first.”

“Okay,” Spike said. “I spy with my little eye… something beginning with… W.”

Pinkie looked around her room, looking for anything that could start with a W. “Wall?” she guessed.

“Close, but, no,” Spike said.

She looked around more. “Window?” Pinkie guessed again.

“Correct!” Spike said.

“Hey, what’s Ash coming to Sugarcube Corner for?” Pinkie asked. “It’s not time for him to deliver his mom’s milk today.”

Spike then realized his mistake and quickly started to think of an excuse. “Oh, he decided to do the delivery early this week,” he said.

“Huh,” Pinkie said. “I would have thought Mrs. Cake would have told me about that.”

“Uh, he told us before me and Spike left Sweet Apple Acres,” Caramel said. “We walked past him on the way to the gate.”

“Oh, okay,” Pinkie said.

“You think she bought it?” Spike whispered to Caramel.

“There’s only one way to find out,” Caramel whispered back.

“Wait a minute,” Pinkie said. “Where’s the milk cart?”

“Uh, please excuse me, I need to use the bathroom,” Spike said before he rushed downstairs before Pinkie had a chance to respond.

Downstairs, Ash had walked up to Mrs. Cake. He was to pick up a cake from her. Suddenly, Spike entered, wearing an annoyed face.

“You didn’t bring the milk cart?!” he loudly whispered.

“But, I had,” Ash whispered. “I put it on before I got here. Unless the coupling slipped off again on the way here.”

“Pinkie asked where it was,” Spike whispered. “Why would she ask that if she didn’t see it? How would you even not notice it coming off before you got here? You pull that cart every week.******”

“It’s okay, dear,” Mrs. Cake whispered. “If she comes down, I’ll explain the situation. I’ll just tell her that Ash needed to park the cart in a different spot since he’s delivering the milk on a different day than usual.”

Suddenly, Caramel came downstairs.

“Where’s the bathroom again?” he asked.

“What are you doing downstairs?!” Spike whispered. “You’re supposed to keep Pinkie distracted!”

“You saying you needed to use the bathroom reminded me that I should go, too,” Caramel explained.

Spike facepalmed. “Of all the times for you to remember something…”

While the arguing was going on, Mrs. Cake gave Ash a pink box and Ash snuck his way out of the bakery.

Unknown to either of them, Pinkie had secretly listened through the floorboards. “Wait, so if Ash wasn’t here to deliver his mom’s milk, what was he here for?” She opened the window and climbed out after Ash left.

A few minutes later, Caramel and Spike returned to the loft. Spike was rubbing his temples.

“I said I was sorry, Spike,” Caramel said with an embarrassed blush.

“I’m just wondering what else could go wrong,” Spike said.

“Pinkie’s not in here!” Caramel said.

“Of course she’s not,” Spike said, deadpan.

Caramel gasped. “You don’t think she snuck out to follow Ash, do you?”

“We won’t figure it out if we just stand here like idiots,” Spike said.

So, the two boys hastened out of the bakery to catch up to Pinkie, wherever that may be.

Meanwhile, Pinkie was following Ash to Carousel Boutique, disguised as a bale of hay with a jacket and gag nose glasses. Carousel Boutique? What could he be doing here? She thought to herself.

Ash rang the doorbell and Rarity came out. “You’re just in time,” Rarity whispered happily. “I hope it wasn’t too much trouble for you.”

“Well, apparently, I arrived at Sugarcube Corner without the milk cart,” Ash whispered back.

“How do you not notice the absence of weight you pull on a weekly basis?” Rarity quietly asked incredulously.

“I don’t bucking know! If everypony’s going to criticize me about this,” Ash said grumpily. “I may as well not waste my time helping you guys.” He then tossed the cake to Rarity and fumed off.

“Oh, dear,” Rarity said to herself. “I’ll have to comfort him after this.” She looked around and discreetly picked up the cake box with her tail. She then snuck over to her next location, unaware of Pinkie following her.

Rarity’s in on this, too? Pinkie thought to herself. What is going on here? She then saw Rarity meet with Fluttershy.

“How’s everything coming together?” Rarity asked the yellow pegasus mare.

“They’re coming along well,” Fluttershy said. “Good thing Caramel and Spike are keeping Pinkie distracted.”

Wait, that’s why they were with me? Pinkie thought to herself. And keep me distracted from what exactly?

Rarity gave Fluttershy the package and trotted off. “I just can’t believe she picked today of all days to throw another party.”

“I know,” Fluttershy said. “Not that I wouldn’t have wanted to go, but, what we have planned is going to be very exciting. If we keep her from finding out.”

Unknown to the two, Pinkie had heard them. I can’t believe it, Pinkie thought. I thought they liked my parties.

After Rarity left, Fluttershy picked up the package and trotted off. She bumped into the disguised Pinkie. Fluttershy didn’t recognize her and instantly panicked and flew away.

“Something screwy’s going on around here,” Pinkie said to herself. “I better look into this.”

“Hey, Pinkie,” Rainbow absentmindedly said while walking past her. She felt her mane and tail spike up in a flurry as she realized who she was talking to. “Uh oh!” She zipped away at top speed.

“Get back here!” Pinkie shouted as she gave chase.

“Why did I have to say hi to her at this time?!” Rainbow cursed to herself. “Why weren’t Spike and Caramel distracting her?!”

“I know you guys had them to distract me!” Pinkie called. “What are you trying to keep me distracted from?!”

Rainbow put on a boost of speed as she made a beeline for Sweet Apple Acres. Pinkie charged hard following after her. She was fast for an earth pony, but, Rainbow had a sizeable headstart.

“Applejack!” Rainbow called. “We have a problem!”

“Hurry!” Applejack called. Rainbow flew into the barn with Applejack following after. The farm mare quickly shut the door before Pinkie could get in.

“Thanks, AJ,” Rainbow panted.

Outside the barn, Pinkie aggressively knocked on the door as if she were a woodpecker. “Open up!” she shouted. “I know you’re in there!”

Voices inside were heard whispering.

“Why aren’t Spike and Caramel distracting her?” Fluttershy whispered.

“She must have suspected something was up,” Twilight ventured to guess, her voice also in a whisper.

“But, how?” Rainbow whispered. “We had Ash pick up the box at Sugarcube Corner.”

“Apparently, Ash arrived without the milk cart,” Rarity whispered.

“Ah saw him leave with the milk cart,” Applejack whispered. “Didn’t have time ta secure it properly. Musta come loose ‘fore he got there.”

“Okay, how the buck does he not notice he’s not pulling something he pulls every week?!” Rainbow whispered.

“That hardly matters at this point,” Twilight whispered. “This is complicated enough already.”

“Well, what can we do?” Fluttershy whispered. “We can’t leave Pinkie too deep in the dark about this.”

Pinkie knocked impatiently again. “Is anypony going to tell me what’s going on or not?!”

“Let me handle this,” Rainbow whispered. “Applejack can barely tell a believable lie.” So, she opened the top half of the barn door. “Oh, hey, Pinkie. Sorry for taking off so suddenly like that.”

“What are you working on and why are Spike and Caramel supposed to be distracting me right now?!” Pinkie demanded.

“That’s a secret,” Rainbow said plainly. “It’s on a need-to-know basis and you don’t need to know.*******”

Pinkie was quiet for a while. She wanted to ask further, but, it would have gone against her personal moral code. She knew the importance of keeping secrets and even enforced it upon her friends. “You win this round,” she said before walking off.

“Phew,” Rainbow sighed. The other mares also sighed in relief.

“For a moment, I thought you were going to kick her flank,” Twilight said.

“What?!” Rainbow said. “Just because I’m the first one of us to get physical, I do all those crazy stunts, and I’m always ready for a—” She then stopped as she was hearing those aloud. “Okay, I can see why you’d think that.”

“Well,” Rarity said. “Now that we’re all here, why don’t we get everything set up? We’ve got no time to lose.”

Meanwhile, Pinkie was making her way back to Sugarcube Corner.

“Secrets and lies!” Pinkie grumbled to herself. “It’s all just secrets and lies with them! Well, I’m going to find out the truth about this one way or another! Caramel wouldn’t remember, so, that leaves Spike. I have ways of making him talk.”

Spike and Caramel finally caught up with her.

“There you are, Pinkie!” Caramel said. “Oh, we were so worried about you.”

“Save it, Caramel!” Pinkie exclaimed harshly. She then took a deep breath and with a calmer voice, she said, “Say, Spike. You must be getting hungry now, huh?”

“After looking for you all over Ponyville,” Spike admitted. “‘Hungry’s’ a pretty good word.”

“I can understand that,” Pinkie said. “How about as a way to apologize for my running off so suddenly, I can treat you to some gems from my own stash.”

Spike was soon in Pinkie’s room, presented with a bowl of various gems.

“Whoa~” Spike said in an impressed tone. “Your sisters from the rock farm must have sent these to you, huh?”

“How else do you think I can afford all those party supplies when apprenticeships don’t pay with money?********” Pinkie said. “Anyway, I’m willing to part with enough that will satisfy your hungry tummy… if you tell me what I need to know.”

“That’s a little vague, Pinkie,” Spike said.

Pinkie cleared her throat and then said, “I learned that you and Caramel were tasked with keeping me distracted. Well, what were you two keeping me distracted from?”

Spike was baffled before he came to a realization. “You were stalking Ash?!”

Pinkie’s sneaky expression changed to one of realization. “Uh, I wouldn’t say stalking him. I would say more like following him to see what was going on without him knowing.” She listened to what she just said. “That’s… basically what stalking is, isn’t it?”

“Well, yeah!” Spike said. “So, he and the others are keeping a secret. Yeah, Caramel and I are in on it. So what? Aren’t you the one always saying that it’s important to keep secrets?”

“Uh, well,” Pinkie said. “A-after what you had told me about me thinking I have a lack of trust in my friends, I was starting to lighten up on the idea a little bit. I just wanted to know what was going on and why the others don’t want me to know about this.”

“By stalking them?” Spike challenged. “Friends don’t stalk their friends.”

Pinkie took in what Spike said. She knew that he was right. It was then that the unthinkable had happened: the poofiness of Pinkie’s mane and tail deflated until it was as straight as it was before her first Sonic Rainboom encounter.

“Oh…” Pinkie said dismally. “No wonder they don’t want me to know about what’s going on. They must have realized that I’m a terrible friend.” Her eyes grew big and sad-looking while her mouth was squiggly and also sad.

Spike’s irritation at Pinkie faded upon seeing her in such a state. “Uh, Pinkie?” he asked. “Are you okay?”

“You can take the gems,” she said in a soft, low voice. “I kind of would like to be alone right now.”

“I don’t think it’s a good idea to leave you alone in this state,” Spike said.

“Please, go!” Pinkie snapped. She then forcefully placed the bowl in his claws. “And take Caramel with you!”

Spike headed downstairs with the bowl in his claws. Caramel was waiting for him.

“What happened?” the stallion asked.

“I told Pinkie that friends don’t stalk their friends,” Spike said. “Now, she thinks the others think she’s a terrible friend.”

“What?” Caramel gasped. “Well, that’s not true. So, what are we going to do?”

“I don’t know at this point,” Spike said. He then looked at the bowl of gems. “We may as well give these to Rarity.”

“Sure,” Caramel said. The two males walked out of the bakery to meet up with the others at Sweet Apple Acres.

Later, Pinkie was sitting alone in her bed. She stared up at the ceiling. “How could I have not realized?” Pinkie said to herself. “I would have liked to know what they were trying to do, but, I should have trusted them enough to let them tell me on their own.”

She then turned over so that her face was directly in the pillow. Suddenly, she started to hear voices.

“There’s no need to cry, Pinkie,” said one voice. Pinkie looked around for the owner of the voice. She saw a bucket of turnips.

“Huh?” Pinkie quizzically said. “Who said that?”

“Over here,” the voice said as the bucket moved.

“You?” Pinkie asked as she wiped some excess tears from her eyes. “You’re a bucket of turnips. I always thought they couldn’t talk.”

“We’re here for you,” the bucket said.

“We?” Pinkie asked. She then saw a ball of lint, a pile of rocks, and a bag of flour. She looked over at them and then she asked herself, “Am I losing my mind or something? Is this what losing my mind is?”

“Hey, at least you had one,” the rock pile said in a Manehattan-like voice. “My head’s full o’ rocks.”

“Yes, indeed,” said the ball of lint with a posh upperclassman accent. “And while I’m most sophisticated, I’m not the most intellectual of us altogether.”

“I would argue zat you fill zat requirement,” the flour sack said with a Prench accent.

“Um, okay,” Pinkie said, deciding not to question the situation further. “Anyway, Mr. Turnip, was it? You said that there was no need to cry?”

“Yes,” the bucket said. “We’ll be guests to your party.”

“Y-you will?” Pinkie asked happily. “Oh, but, I’ll try not to ruin my friendships with you like I ruined my friendships with my pony and dragon friends.” She then set up the party with the objects. “Okay, this is just sad,” she lamented.

“Hey, dat’s okay,” said the pile of rocks, appropriately named Rocky. “It’ll be like the games ya used ta play when youse was a filly.”

“Didn’t those games have Granny Pie take me to therapy?” Pinkie said.

“Perhaps,” the ball of lint, appropriately named Sir Lintalot, said. “But, for the moment, let’s enjoy new friendships and the celebration of our beloved friend, Gummy.”

“I don’t know,” Pinkie said. “What if I get taken to therapy again? I don’t think I can handle any new prescriptions. The last one made me believe that we’re in a bizarrely written fanfiction series on the internet.*********”

The objects were left in brief silence for a while, the only sound heard was the brief pounding of a timbale drum. After a moment, the sack of flour, named Madame La Flour, spoke up.

“Vou might,” she said. “Vou might not. Let us not worry about zat now, zhough. We have a soiree to enjoy.”

“Okay,” Pinkie said, unsure of herself until she heard a knock at her door. “Somepony’s at the door! REAL SOCIAL ACTIVITY!” She hastened to answer the door. It was Rainbow, who had flown up to the loft door with her wings.

“Hey, Pinkie,” she said.

“Oh, uh, hi,” Pinkie said, wiping her eye a bit. In spite of her personal qualms, she didn’t want Rainbow to see that she herself had been crying. “What’s going on?”

Rainbow studied the earth pony, who was being uncharacteristically calm and a bit sad. “I could ask you the same question.”

“Oh,” Pinkie said. “I was just having a little get-together with some new friends of mine. I figured I should at least try to move on and be a better friend than I was towards you and the others.” She then whispered to Rainbow, “I’m also starting to think I’m losing my mind.”

“Uh, probably,” Rainbow said. She then cleared her throat. “Listen, I’m sorry for what happened earlier. I came over because we have something for you at Sweet Apple Acres.”

“I don’t like where this is going,” Pinkie said.

“Don’t worry,” Rainbow said reassuringly. “I’ll be here to take you there, so, why don’t you grab Gummy and we can head there?”

“She’s not going anywhere because she’s scared of how badly she ruined things already,” Pinkie involuntarily made Mr. Turnip say.

“Ruin things?” Rainbow asked, questioning Pinkie’s state of mind in her head. “You didn’t ruin things.”

“You oughta be pissed at her fer stalkin’ youse,” Pinkie had Rocky say.

“That’s what this is about?” Rainbow said.

“Yes!” Pinkie had Sir Lintalot say. “Spike told her off about it earlier and now, Pinkie has come to understand that she was a terrible friend towards you and the others!”

“Huh,” Rainbow said. “So, that’s why he looked so down in the dumps when he and Caramel came to Sweet Apple Acres and Spike wouldn’t eat the gems.”

“Oui, so-” Pinkie started saying as Madame La Flour before Pinkie began speaking as herself. “He didn’t eat the gems I gave him? Oh, no. Did I hurt his feelings, too?”

“He asked us how he can eat when he feels lower than dirt,” Rainbow said. “Remember how he was when he ate a baked bad and realized it had worms in it afterwards?”

“Oh, no,” Pinkie said. “I was feeling sad, but, I didn’t want him to be sad. I’ve got to go find him and tell him that everything’s okay. The last time he felt that bad, it took days to get him to eat at all.”

So, Rainbow and Pinkie went over to Sweet Apple Acres together. Rainbow opened both halves of the barn door and she led Pinkie inside.

“Surprise!” the other mares said.

“Happy… uh…” Caramel started before forgetting what they were celebrating.

“Never mind that now,” Pinkie said. “Where’s Spike?”

“He’s sittin’ in a haystack in the corner,” Applejack said. “He’s feelin’ bad ‘bout somethin’.”

“He’s down because of me,” Pinkie said as she went to the corner where Spike was. She saw his tail sticking out of a haystack. “Spike?”

“I’m sorry for what I said, Pinkie,” Spike said. “I was just so frustrated with keeping this secret and you stalking your friends. I could tell that leaving you alone in that state was a bad idea, but, you told me to leave you alone.”

“Oh, Spike, I’m sorry, too,” Pinkie said sadly. “You were actually right to offer to stay. After you left, I got so lonely that I started imagining random objects in my room talking to me. I wasn’t angry with you. I was so upset because I thought you and the others didn't want to be my friends anymore because of how I stalked them. You’re an amazing dragon, Spike, and you’re a better friend than I deserve. I hope that you’re okay and I hope you can forgive me for being so selfish.”

“Pinkie,” Applejack said firmly.

“I know,” Pinkie said. “I really messed things up this time.”

“What ah was fixin’ ta say,” Applejack said. “Is that we’re used ta y’all spyin’ on us by now n’ we’re still friends despite that.”

“Y-you are?” Pinkie asked.

Spike poked his head from the haystack and asked that as well. “You are?”

“We know that Pinkie doesn’t mean any real harm,” Fluttershy said. “She just doesn’t always think things through.”

“Like the fact that today’s her 16th birthday,” Twilight said.

“We all tried planning it out in advance,” Rarity said. “But, Gummy’s birthday yesterday distracted us from it. Learning that Pinkie was throwing another party this afternoon complicated things.”

“And all the sneaky stuff we had to do to throw her off the scent,” Rainbow said. “Having you and Caramel keep her distracted, having Ash collect the cake from Sugarcube Corner, and coming up with an excuse to not attend Gummy’s after-birthday party to get everything ready for Pinkie’s surprise party.”

“Hey,” Pinkie said. “Where is Ash, anyway? If he was in on this, shouldn’t he be here, too?”

“Screw you!” Ash’s voice called from outside the barn.

“Yeah,” Rainbow said sheepishly. “He heard one too many complaints about his milk cart link being undone.”

“And to be fair,” Rarity said. “We should have been more sympathetic since he was doing something to help us.”

“He really was bringing milk to Sugarcube Corner early?” Pinkie asked.

“No,” Twilight said. “But, you might’ve gotten suspicious otherwise. It’s really just bad luck the milk cart wasn’t with him when he got to Sugarcube Corner.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right,” Pinkie said. “Still, it was really nice of him to do this for you. And it was really nice for you all to do this for—” She suddenly gasped. “It’s my birthday?! Oh, my gosh! I was so excited about the idea of partying with Gummy and my friends again that I forgot about my own birthday!” Her mane and tail poofed up again.

“O’ course, Pinkie,” Applejack said. “Since yer always throwin’ parties fer us, we felt it was time we threw ya a party ta show how much ya mean ta us.”

“We wanted to make it special by having it be a surprise,” Rainbow said. “Believe me, setting up a surprise for you is hard to do. Every time we tried before, you ended up finding out and ruining the surprise.”

“Well, you guys really surprised me this time,” Pinkie said. “You guys really are the best friends a pony could ever ask for. I mean that, every mare, stallion, drake, and calf here. I love each and every one of you guys. This experience let me take a good look at myself and I promise to stop stalking and try thinking things through better.”

She then grabbed all of her friends and she gave them all a big group hug. It was a very tight hug.

“Ooh,” said Spike. “I think you fixed a kink in my—” He was cut off by the sound of joint popping. “Nope, it’s back!”

“Oops!” Pinkie gasped before letting go. “Sorry about that. Guess I need to work on the strength I use for my group hugs, too.” She then saw Spike leaning further backwards than he usually did. “Definitely need to work on that.”

Spike adjusted his posturing. Since he started to feel better, his stomach growled loudly. “I believe these will suffice,” Rarity said as she levitated the bowl to him.

“Thanks, Rarity,” Spike smiled, grabbing a large emerald from the bowl.

“I’m glad things got better,” Pinkie said. “Now, I don’t have to go to therapy and get another prescription.”

“Huh?” Twilight asked. “You’re on medication?”

“Yeah,” Pinkie said. “I take it to keep my blood sugar levels under control and keep me from having a sugar rush every ten minutes.**********”

“Huh,” Twilight said. “That would explain a lot.”

“The problem is that it makes me think that we’re characters in a story written by a bearded guy and two girls over long distances,” Pinkie said.

“Do I want to know?” Twilight asked.

“Not really,” Pinkie said.

“Alright, y’all!” Applejack called. “Enough o’ this gab!” She then turned on a nearby phonograph and lively music began to play. “Let’s party!”

As the party was underway, Twilight began drafting another report.

“Dear Princess Celestia,
I’m writing to you from a most delightful party. I’m not only have a wonderful time with my friends, but, it also gave me an opportunity to learn a valuable lesson about friendship. Always expect the best from your friends and never assume the worst. Rest assured that a good friend always has your best interests at heart.

Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle.

P.S. I’ll try and save a slice of cake for you.”

“Need me to send that?” Spike asked.

“Sure,” Twilight said. “But, after that, we can fully enjoy the party.”

Spike sent the scroll on its way. “We better save a slice of cake for the princess,” he said.

“I added that as a postscript in the letter,” Twilight smiled. “Let’s cut a piece off now while there’s still some left.”

“Good idea,” Spike smiled. “Cakes don’t tend to last long around Pinkie at a party.”

Twilight giggled and made sure to get a generous slice of cake, complete with frosting rosette.

“Wow,” Pinkie said. “Thanks, Twilight!”

“This is for Princess Celestia,” Twilight said.

“Ooh,” Pinkie said. “I bet she’d love that.”

“Pinkie,” Rarity said. “Could I speak to you for a moment?”

“Sure, Rarity,” Pinkie said, walking closer to her. “What’s up?”

“Well, can we speak in private?” the fashionista asked.

“Okie dokie lokie,” Pinkie said, as Rarity led her to a more secluded location. Specifically, the hay loft.

“Now, I recall you giving Spike the nickname of ‘Spikey-Wikey’ during the meteor shower,” Rarity said.

“Oh, yeah,” Pinkie giggled. “It sounded cute when I thought of it. Do you like it?”

“As a matter of fact, I do,” Rarity said. “I was wondering if I could borrow that term.”

“Borrow?” Pinkie asked before saying with a smile. “Hee hee, if you liked it that much, you can keep it.”

“Really?” Rarity said.

“Sure,” Pinkie said. “You probably noticed how Spike feels about you.”

“Of course,” Rarity said. “It’s flattering and the bonding time we have on gem hunts makes me find new depths to him that would allow me to reciprocate were it not for two things.”

“Huh?” Pinkie asked. “What’s that?”

“First, he’s underage,” Rarity said. “There’s also a possibility that as he grows older, he’ll get to know others who are closer to his age and might get closer to them.”

“Oh,” Pinkie said. “That sounds possible.”

“The other reason is because I plan on meeting my dream stallion at the gala,” Rarity said.

“You’ll have to wait another week and see how this dream stallion actually is,” Pinkie said. “He could either be the best thing ever or he could be a nightmare of a stallion. But, no matter what happens, you and Spike should still be there for each other. Hey, maybe if your dream stallion doesn’t work out, you can take things steady with Spike.”

“I suppose I could do that,” Rarity said. “I admit I’m rather fond of him, but, deep down, I feel as if I’m taking advantage of him. He says that he suffered a lot in Canterlot and while I feel pity for him, I feel a bit skeptical deep down.”

“Well,” Pinkie said. “Have you done any of the things that Spike told us the Canterlot elitist ponies did?”

“Of course not,” Rarity said. “I admit I was apprehensive about the idea of being around a dragon that would guzzle my gem supply in seconds, but, I felt saying that would be impolite. Hearing the things he’s usually called made me feel guilty for having such thoughts.”

“What you thought of Spike before you got to know him shouldn’t matter,” Pinkie said. “What should matter is how you feel about him now and how your friendship can improve later on.”

“Well, look at him,” Rarity said as she pointed to Spike, who was clearly enjoying the party. “He acts so happy at times, you wouldn’t know he has such a sad background.”

“That’s because now that he’s here in Ponyville,” Pinkie said. “He has a chance to have a better future and others who will really care about him.”

“Yes,” Rarity said. “But, with how happy he can act at times, a part of me suspects that he made up some of his backstory.”

“He has no reason to lie about that,” Pinkie said.

“I know,” Rarity said. “That’s why I don’t say anything to him about it. I feel guilty suspecting him of lying.”

“Well,” Pinkie said. “What matters now is that we continue to treat Spike better. He needs us and we can’t let him down. Besides, with the gala being held in Canterlot, you can see firsthoof how the elitists treat him.”

“Yes, yes,” Rarity said. “And once I do see the hardships he goes through, I’ll give those elitists a piece of my mind.” Rarity then took a deep breath. “Well, we can’t waste all of our party time whispering about up here like field mice. There’s still plenty of your birthday party to celebrate.”

“So, let’s get back to the party!” Pinkie said. “Maybe we can also celebrate Gummy’s after-birthday party here, too.”

“About that, Pinkie,” Rarity said. “Maybe try not to throw parties so often. If you do, they won’t be special anymore.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Pinkie said.

And with that, the two mares rejoined the party.

End of chapter.

Chapter 26: The Best Night Ever (S1:E26)

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My Little Pony: Nine Elements

Written by Brandon Nell, Blake Hawkins, and Rachel Ravens

Chapter 26: The Best Night Ever

One week after Pinkie’s birthday party, Spike, Caramel, and Twilight and her friends were getting ready for the Grand Galloping Gala. Pinkie was excitedly bouncing around.

“I can’t believe the Gala’s finally here!” Pinkie squealed happily. “We’re going to have the best time together!”

“I’m trying to concentrate, Pinkie!” Twilight said.

Pinkie heard Twilight’s words and stopped bouncing. “Sorry, Twilight,” she said. “Guess I was more excited for tonight than I thought.”

“I’m hard-pressed thinking of something that doesn’t excite you,” Twilight said.

“So,” Caramel asked. “What exactly is Twilight doing?”

“She’s going to try out a spell to give us transportation to the Gala,” Spike said.

“Why don’t we just take the train?” Rainbow asked.

“Because I want our first time at the Gala to be special,” Twilight said. “Don’t forget that this is the first Gala Spike will be attending without being barred entry.”

“For the record, I’m okay with taking the train,” Spike said.

“I understand that,” Twilight said. “But, I have just about everything ready. Applejack, if you please.”

Applejack placed an apple before Twilight.

“An apple?” Caramel asked. “I would have remembered if we were going to make a pie.”

“We’re not,” Applejack smiled. “It’s fer Twi’s spell.”

Twilight focused her magic and in under a minute, the apple was transformed into a carriage big enough to carry Twilight and her friends while still retaining its apple features. The others were amazed with the beautiful carriage before them.

“Question,” Rainbow said. “Why didn’t you just rent a carriage?”

“I tried,” Twilight explained. “But, the cheapest ones available wouldn’t be big enough to hold us and using magic to modify them is considered a breach in the rental arrangement.*”

“Fair enough,” Rainbow said, shrugging her shoulders.

“I think the carriage you made is lovely, Twilight,” Fluttershy smiled.

“Thanks,” Twilight smiled. “But, that’s only part of it. You brought your friends, right?”

“I’m not so sure about bringing mice here, Twilight,” Fluttershy said. “Remember, Rarity has a cat. And you know what cats do to mice.**”

“Oh, that’s right,” Twilight said. “Well, how else can we get to the Gala if we don’t have mice transfigured into horses to pull the carriage?”

Rarity gave a look to Twilight as if to say, ‘Are you serious?’ She then walked over to a corral close by her boutique and met up with two stallions. One was a light cobalt bluish gray earth stallion with a dark gray mane and tail, pale, light grayish cobalt blue eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting three four-leafed clovers. His name was Lucky Clover. The other was a light cobalt blue earth stallion with a dark cobalt mane and tail, moderate gamboge eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting two pairs of two-beamed quavers. His name was Noteworthy.

Rarity then politely asked the two, “Excuse me, but, would you two be so kind as to pull our carriage to the Gala?”

“What do you say, Note?” Lucky Clover asked.

“I’d be up for that, honestly,” Noteworthy said. “I didn’t really have anything going on tonight, so, I’ll be glad to help.”

The two were hooked up to the carriage.

“Oh…” Twilight said, blushing sheepishly. “Right.”

Later, the mares were getting themselves freshened up. Twilight, Fluttershy, and Rarity were under cloche-style hair dryers. As they were getting freshened up, there was a knock at the dressing room door.

“Come on!” Spike said. “Let me in!”

“Sure thing, Spike,” Rainbow said as she walked towards the door. Rarity, however, blocked her.

“Absolutely not!” Rarity gasped. “We’re getting dressed in here!”

“Spike sees us without clothes everyday,” Applejack pointed out. “Tain’t like he won’t see nothin’ he ain’t seen before.”

Rarity considered this. “That’s understandable,” she said. “Alright, then.” She then let the drake inside. “Sorry. It seems I still get a bit nervous about the idea of a boy watching a female get dressed.”

“I can’t understand why,” Spike said. “It’s not like we wear clothes all the time anyway.”

“Yeah,” Applejack said. “Most ah wear every day is mah hat.”

“Well,” Spike said, changing the subject. “We’ll be going to Canterlot tonight. Our hometown, mom.”

“I know,” Twilight smiled. “And this’ll be our first time at the Gala.” Spike sighed sadly. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s just…” Spike said. “After being denied entry to the Gala three times before, I’m not sure this’ll be any different.”

“It might be different this time,” Rainbow said. “When you, Twilight, and Fluttershy were trying to rescue Philomena, we saw that Princess Celestia was scolding the guards who grabbed you.”

“Plus,” Rarity said. “With Twilight’s brother in charge of security, he’ll make sure to give them a stern talking-to if they even think about denying you entrance.”

“About that scolding during the Philomena thing,” Spike said. “That wasn’t even the first time I heard the princess scold them for the way they handled me.”

“What?!” Applejack gasped. “They really THAT dumb n’ ignorant towards ya?!”

“You don’t know the half of it,” Spike said. “Life as a dragon in a pony society isn’t easy. I’ve gone through most of my life with ponies unable to look past what I am on the outside.”

“Well, if they’re that judgmental towards you,” Rainbow said. “Celestia should consider replacing them with better guards, ones who are more sentimental towards who you are and not just what you look like.”

“It’s not just the guards,” Spike said. “There was the mail courier, the old mare down the street, the parents of the foals at the playground, I could go on for days.”

“Well,” Twilight said. “You’ll be around ponies who do love you. And if they say anything terrible about you, you'll know who to go to for help.” She nuzzled him gently. “I promise that after we fulfill our plans for the night, we’ll spend time with you.”

“Yeah, Spike,” Pinkie smiled. “As the Element of Laughter, I can Pinkie promise that we all will have the Best Night Ever!”

Meanwhile at Canterlot, Shining Armor was addressing the Royal Guard put on security detail.

“Alright, everypony,” Shining Armor said. “For most of you, this will be your first assignment after graduating from the Academy.”

Flash Sentry was among the newer guards. “Ugh, I know, Sergeant Shining Armor,” he groaned. “But, Gala security? I get that all these rich ponies, celebrities, and royalty under one roof would be a tempting target for criminals and we need to be ready for that. Still, most of the other newbies consider this detail torture.”

“I understand, Flash,” Shining said. “But, anypony who mistreats my nephew will have to answer to me, Twily, or the Princesses. And they had BETTER pray that the Princesses get to them first because they will be more likely to survive long enough to be drummed out than if Twily or I get to them.”

“Yes, Sergeant,” Flash said, giving a respectable salute. He’d seen pictures of Spike beforehoof and heard his story in briefing. “Permission to state something on my mind?”

“Permission granted, Flash,” Shining Armor said.

Flash cleared his throat. “Between the Princesses, you, and his mother/your sister, one would have to be downright insane to mistreat that little guy and I wouldn't be far behind the bunch of you because I HATE the idea of mistreating children just because of their species. I know how it feels being an outcast. I was a pegasus born into a family of earth ponies.”

Shining Armor put a comforting hoof on Flash Sentry’s shoulder. “Your empathy is an excellent quality to have as a Royal Guard,” Shining Armor said. “And I’m sorry for any mistreatment you’ve endured. That's why YOU are going to put in charge of Spike's V.I.P. Gala detail.”

“Yes, sir!” Flash said, saluting excitedly.***

After Spike, Caramel, and the mares got dressed, Spike sat on the driver’s seat of the carriage while Caramel and the mares ended up getting crowded inside it. Lucky and Noteworthy pulled the carriage.

“Anypony else get the feeling this wasn’t thought through very well?” Rainbow asked.

“Maybe that’s why the original spell called for a pumpkin rather than an apple,” Twilight said, slightly muffled. “I thought the apple carriage would become more roomy to accommodate all of us.”

“Has anypony noticed that the seats don’t feel like apple flesh?” Pinkie asked.

“Yeah,” Twilight said with an embarrassed blush. “I really didn’t think this spell through. Maybe I should have rented an actual carriage after all.”

“It’s okay, Twilight,” Fluttershy said kindly. “This is still a very nice thing you did for all of us. On the bright side, it smells like apples in here.”

“Oh, uh,” Applejack said. “That could also be mah perfume.”

“Applejack wearing perfume?” Rainbow asked. “Boy, you really want this date with Caramel to feel like a romantic one, huh, AJ?”

“Got a problem with that?” Applejack challenged.

“No way,” Rainbow said. “Just happy for you is all.”

Soon, the apple carriage arrived at Canterlot.

“Thanks for your help, guys,” Spike said to Noteworthy and Lucky.

“Next time, though,” Lucky said. “Don’t crack the reins.”

“Sorry, guys,” Spike said. “I was excited for tonight. It won’t happen again, I promise.”

“You’re lucky you’re friends with our neighbor, Rarity,” Noteworthy said.

Spike jumped down from the carriage and opened the door. He then gave a gentlemanly bow as he allowed his friends to exit the carriage. It took a while, but, they made it out. Spike took a peek at his friends. Even if he had already seen the mares in their Gala dresses before, the light of the moon made them look extremely radiant.

“You all look amazing,” he said. He then remembered Caramel was in that direction, too. “Uh, not that I–”

“Spike,” Twilight said. “Don’t explain yourself. You’re only a boy complimenting a stallion is all and we understand that.”

“Besides,” Rainbow said. “We wouldn’t have a problem if you do swing that way.” That comment resulted in Twilight glaring at Rainbow.

“The last thing Spike needs is to be teased,” Twilight said.

“I wasn’t teasing him,” Rainbow said. “I was giving him support. I’m bi, remember? If anypony knows anything about feelings towards others of the same or different gender, it’s me.”

Spike looked at the castle and gave an audible gulp. “Well,” Spike said. “Here goes nothing.” He moved very stiffly. The others saw this. Twilight first went next to Spike’s left side and offered her right hoof. Fluttershy then went next to Spike on his right and offered him her left hoof. They knew that whatever would happen, they would be there for Spike.

They soon reached the front gates and presented their tickets. One of the guards there was Flash Sentry.

“Welcome, everyone,” Flash said politely. “We were expecting all of you.”

“And the riffraff,” said the other while eyeing Spike.

“Leave him alone,” Flash said. “Or do I have to report this to the sergeant?”

The other guard gulped. Flash took a better look at the mares. “Say, didn’t I see you mares at the Best Young Fliers Competition? Four of you were in the audience and two of you were participants.”

“Hey, you’re Flash Sentry,” Rainbow said upon recognizing him.

“And you were the one who won the competition and pulled off the Sonic Rainboom,” said Flash. “Rainbow Dash, right?”

“Correct,” she grinned. “These are my friends, Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Caramel, Twilight, and Spike.”

“Pleasure to meet all of you,” said Flash before looking closer at the purple unicorn. “You’re not Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor’s sister, are you? And is Spike his nephew?”

Twilight giggled. “That’s us, alright. Shining always did see Spike that way.”

“Your brother assigned me to look after Spike to ensure his experience is enjoyable,” Flash said. “My first assignment out of the academy.”

“Oh, thank you, Flash Sentry,” said Spike. “And thank uncle Shining Armor, too.”

“Look,” Flash said. “Just call me Flash. And trust me, little guy. I know what you’re going through. I’m a pegasus born into an earth pony family.****”

“Wow,” said Spike. “I never thought about something like that. But, as a pegasus, you can fly out and see things your family can’t. That can be really helpful.”

“Thanks, kiddo,” said Flash. “Now, you and your friends have fun at the Gala.”

Spike and the ponies went through the gates. Spike nervously looked around as several elitists eyed him with disdain. Spike’s friends looked back at the elitists, letting them know that Spike is their friend.

“Yeah, we’re friends with a dragon,” Rainbow said. “If you elitists have a problem with it, you can take it up with us, the princesses, or the sergeant of the guard.”

The elitists were caught off guard with Rainbow’s threat and backed off.

“Stick with me, Spike,” Twilight whispered. “I won’t let anything bad happen to you tonight or ever.”

The mares went their separate ways while Spike stayed with Twilight. Twilight and Spike soon met up with Princess Celestia, who was standing at the top of the grand stairway with Luna by her side.

“Princess Celestia,” Twilight smiled.

“Princess Luna,” Spike smiled. “Glad to see you out and about tonight.” He looks closely. “Where’s Canis?”

“He’s in my bedroom,” Luna explained. “He’s not really one for social gatherings like this. To hear him talk, witnessing them was about the most uneventful thing ever. Especially since he was unable to move.”

“I can understand that,” Spike said. “Well, when you see him, tell him I send my regards.”

Meanwhile, Applejack and Caramel were on a walk.

“Y’know, it’s actually kind o’ pretty ‘round here,” Applejack said.

“It sure is,” Caramel said. “After hearing stories about Canterlot and its castle, I can hardly believe we’re really here.”

“After hearin’ what Spike suffered,” Applejack said. “He really earned this chance ta come.”

“Yeah,” Caramel smiled. “I hope his night turns out to be really fun.”

At that moment, Fluttershy was in the garden. She was enamored by the rare flowers that bloomed that night. Even more so by the creatures.

“Hello, little meadowlark,” Fluttershy politely greeted.

The meadowlark chirped. It flew deeper into the garden. Just then, Fluttershy heard a beautiful whistling sound. It sounded like a bird song. Fluttershy gasped with excitement.

“It sounds like the meadowlark is singing to me,” Fluttershy squeaked softly. “Oh, this is exactly what I was hoping for.” She vocalized. She turned her head to listen if the whistling would respond to her. She heard the whistling once more and she followed the sound.

Meanwhile, Rarity was looking for Prince Blueblood. She caught sight of him about to walk out into the castle courtyard. He turned to see her, his piercing blue eyes having a sly ‘come hither’ stare. Rarity found herself enamored.

“Hurry, Rarity,” she said to herself, rushing towards Prince Blueblood. She immediately caught herself and she began to walk slower. “But, not too fast. Oh, I don’t want to lose him… wait! Play it cool… but, don’t be cool. I can’t lose him, I can’t! He’s everything I imagined.” She caught a good glimpse of Prince Blueblood, the white unicorn stallion was seen holding a red rose with its thorns trimmed off in his mouth. “Now, to go say hello.”

At that moment, Rainbow spotted the Wonderbolts. They had just finished performing a show and were about to relax in the VIP area. Spitfire looked to see Rainbow and she waved at her.

“Hey, Rainbow,” Spitfire said. “Come on over here.”

Rainbow heard Spitfire and met up with her. “Hi, Spitfire,” she smiled. She noticed Soarin’ eating Hors D'oeuvres with a bored expression. “What’s with him?”

“Same boring food as last year,” Soarin’ said.

“If I had known that,” Rainbow said. “I would have grabbed some oat burgers or something.”

“Good luck finding those here,” Soarin’ said. “These foods are all prepared by the royal chef, who’re supposed to be the best in Equestria, but, they can’t make a Celestia-damn apple pie!”

“Apple pie, huh?” Rainbow asked. She then remembered Applejack had packed one in the carriage for later. “Tell you what? One of my friends packed one for later in our carriage. I’ll ask her if I can get it for you.”

“Shut up and take my money!” Soarin’ said, holding his bit pouch.

“You can pay me after we get it,” Rainbow said. “Be back in a sec!” And with that, she zoomed off.

“Really want something more filling, eh, Soarin’?” Spitfire said.

“You know how I get when I don’t have my carb fix,” Soarin’ said. “These things don’t do it for me.”

Soon, Rainbow met up with Applejack and Caramel.

“How’s yer time with the Wonderbolts?” Applejack asked.

“So far, pretty good,” Rainbow said. “You know that apple pie you brought?”

“What about it?” Applejack asked.

“Well, Soarin’’s not really liking the food served here,” Rainbow said. “He wants an apple pie. He’s even willing to pay for it with bits.”

“Wow,” Applejack smiled. “He must really need it. Okie dokie, ah’m willin’ ta part with it.”

“Thanks, AJ,” Rainbow said before she took off.

Meanwhile with Pinkie, she walked into the ballroom and she looked over the amazing sights before her. It was easy to say she was excited to be there.

“Ooh~!” Pinke squeaked. “The shiny dance floor! The pretty party ponies! The fancy band! Shiny, pretty, fancy! I got to dance!” She began dancing while singing to the tune of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.”

“I’m at the Grand Galloping Gala
I’m at the Grand Galloping Gala
I’m at the Grand Galloping Gala~
It’s all I ever dreamed!

It’s all I ever dreamed, whoo-hoo!
It’s all I ever dreamed, yippie!
I’m at the Grand Galloping Gala-ahh-haa-haaaaaaaaa~!”

Pinkie stopped singing when she saw the Gala attendees glaring at her.

“It’s all I ever dreamed?” Pinkie said sheepishly. For what seemed like the first time in her life, she was embarrassed.

Back with Rarity, she caught up to Blueblood.

“Well, hello,” he said in a charming manner. “I am Prince Blueblood.” He genuflected before her.

“I am Rarity,” she responded. Together, the two were standing next to a brilliant red rose that was in a bush. “My, isn’t that a lovely rose?”

“You mean this rose?” Blueblood said, levitating the rose. Rarity looked excited. With the rose being a brilliant shade of red, she felt that it would be a symbol of true love from Prince Blueblood. However, he placed it in his own collar lapel. “Why, thank you. It goes with my eyes.”

Needless to say, Rarity was a bit disappointed. Perhaps this is what Spike meant regarding expectations, she said internally.

Back at the garden, Fluttershy was still trying to meet up with her singing meadowlark. “My little meadowlark friend is right around this bend!”

Fluttershy rounded the bend. To her surprise though, the whistling hadn’t come from a meadowlark at all. Instead it was coming from an old earth stallion wearing a big green hat and a blue cloth saddle on his back. Despite his visible age, he didn’t appear to have a Cutie Mark. Truth be told, he was a gardener. With all of the dirt he worked with, it was likely obstructing his Cutie Mark.

“Was that you?” Fluttershy asked.

“Sure was,” smiled the old gardener. “Ah love whistlin’ while ah work. Name’s Greenhooves. Ya can call me Mr. Greenhooves if’n ya like.” He then noticed Fluttershy staring at his flank. “Let me guess, yer wonderin’ why ah ain’t got no Cutie Mark, right?”

“Oh!” Fluttershy gasped. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to stare like that.”

“Tain’t nothin’ young’n,” Greenhooves said. “Ah’m used ta it. Ah got one, it’s just covered in dirt. Problem with havin’ a coat the same color as dirt’s that other ponies can’t rightly tell when ah’m actually covered in it.”

“Ah,” Fluttershy said with an understanding nod. “That makes sense.”

“Not many ponies come out here,” Greenhooves said. “Not much o’ a social butterfly?”

“Oh, not really,” Fluttershy said. “I was excited to attend the Gala mostly to see the garden. I wanted to see the flora and fauna around here.”

“Well, flora yer sure ta see,” Greenhooves said. “Though, them critters ain’t used ta other ponies.”

“Hopefully they won’t mind meeting me,” Fluttershy said. “I’m a Critter Whisperer.”

“A pegasus Critter Whisperer?” Greenhooves said. “Now, there’s some’in’ ya don’t see everyday.”

“I guess everypony learns something new every day,” Fluttershy said. “Well, I better get going now, but, it was nice meeting you, Mr. Greenhooves.”

She then walked off and saw some critters. She smiled happily while identifying each of them.

“I see a toco toucan!” she said to herself. “And a spider monkey! Oh, and is that a wallaroo?!”

The critters scattered as she approached.

“Oh dear,” Fluttershy said. “Mr. Greenhooves was right. I guess I was a bit too excitable for them.”

Back with Twilight, Spike, and the Princesses…

“Welcome to the Gala,” Princess Celestia greeted.

“May your night be eventful,” Princess Luna said.

Spike was laying down on Twilight’s back, clearly less than enthusiastic. Twilight noticed this.

“Spike?” Twilight asked. “Are you alright?”

“Just dying of boredom,*****” Spike said. “If I wanted to just stand around and do nothing all night, I would’ve just stayed at the library.”

“Hmm,” Twilight said. “Maybe I should have eased up on the ‘stay close by me’ statement I said earlier. To be honest, this is a little underwhelming for me, too.”

Princess Celestia took notice of this after she finished greeting two mares. “Spike,” she said. “If you’d like, you can wander around the Gala.”

“Are you sure, Princess?” Twilight asked. “He’s only 11.”

“True,” Celestia said. “But, your influence has made him very mature for his age. And don’t worry. Precautions have been taken.”

“Besides,” Luna said, joining in after she greeted a stallion. “With all that Spike went through, don’t you think he deserves a nice night?”

Twilight considered this. “You know what?” she said. “Yeah. He deserves it more than most of the ponies here.”

“Go and enjoy yourself, Spike,” Celestia smiled. “And, you’re welcome to check on your friends to see how they’re doing as well.”

“You got it, Princess!” Spike said as he headed off.

“I’ll see you later, okay?” Twilight called. “And be careful! I love you!”

Spike soon made his way to Applejack and Caramel.

“Howdy, Spike,” Applejack smiled. “Whatcha doin’ here?”

“Well, I came here to cure my boredom,” Spike said. “I also wanted to see how your guys’ ‘best night ever’ was going.”

“Ah suppose that’s understandable,” Applejack said. “It’s pretty calm ‘round here.”

“No problems here,” Caramel said.

“That’s good,” Spike smiled. “Well, I’ll let you two enjoy your date. I don't want to look like a third wheel.”

As soon as he left, one of the elitists spoke up. “Can you believe those ponies voluntarily associate with that repulsive reptile?”

“Indeed,” another elitist responded. “Simply appalling that they would put their own livelihoods at risk.”

Applejack heard this and was not pleased. “The buck y’all just say?!”

“Oh, that explains it,” the first elitist said. “You’re a country bumpkin and you don’t know any better.”

“Ah know that y’all elitists’re nothin’ but lily-livered cowards!” Applejack said. “Pickin’ on a young’n like that! ‘Specially one who suffered discrimination fer so long! If’n ah was as rich as y’all, ah could afford some manners!”

The elitists were shocked at the way they were spoken to.

“Heavens, what is this dreadful feeling?” The second elitist said.

“So, y’all stuck-up snobs can feel guilt,” Applejack sneered. “Learn somethin’ new everyday.”

Caramel could sense that Applejack was letting her temper get the better of her. He grabbed hold of her and he gave her a loving, calming embrace while whispering in her ear. “Look, I can understand defending Spike, but, try to keep your temper before you end up doing something you’ll regret.”

Applejack heard Caramel’s whispered words. She knew he was right, so, she took a deep, cleansing breath and exhaled. “Okay,” Applejack said. “Sorry, Caramel. N’ sorry, ladies.”

“We apologize as well,” the first elitist said.

“We understand now that what we said and did was wrong,” the second elitist said.

Applejack raised her eyebrow to scan them to see if they were telling the truth. To her surprise, they were indeed being honest.

“Well, ah’ll be,” Applejack said. “Ya ain’t spillin’ hogwash.”

“We better get back to our date,” Caramel said. “The night is still young… I think.”

Meanwhile, Rainbow made it to the parking lot and spoke to the valets tending to it. “Uh, excuse me,” she said.

“May we help you, miss?” one valet asked.

“I’m looking for a carriage that looks and smells like an apple,” Rainbow said.

“Oh, you’ll want the Transfigured Produce lot,******” another valet said, pointing in the direction of said lot.

“Transfigured Produce lot?” Rainbow asked in surprise. “Guess Twilight wasn’t the only one to come up with the idea.”

“There’s a bumper crop of them every year,” a third valet said.

“Literally, it looks like,” Rainbow said. “Well, thanks. I think I can find it.” She then followed the direction the second valet pointed.

“I mean,” the first valet said. “I do like the novelty, but, ponies should really stick with renting actual carriages.”

Rainbow made her way to the Transfigured Produce lot and looked for the carriage she and her friends arrived in.

“It’s got to be around here somewhere,” Rainbow said, looking over the fruits and vegetables that were transfigured into carriages. “Watermelon? No. Cantaloupe? Nope. Pineapple? No way. Pumpkin? Okay, that’s way too cliche. Onion? Yuck, who’d want that? Strawberry? How’s that even possible with it being so small? How many ponies had this idea, anyway?” She soon found the carriage she was looking for. “Ah-ha! There it is! Good thing Twilight gave each of us keys in case we needed to get to it.” So, she unlocked the apple carriage’s door and grabbed the apple pie Applejack brought. When she made sure it was safe and secure, Rainbow locked the door again to prevent a break-in.

When she made it back to the Gala, she saw Spike on his own. “Hey, Spike,” Rainbow said. “What are you doing around here? Weren’t you with Twilight and the princesses?”

“Dying of boredom, yes,” Spike said.

“I feel that,” Rainbow said. “That’s why I prefer to be on the move. Hey, I was going to meet up with the Wonderbolts to deliver Soarin’ this apple pie. Applejack gave me the go-ahead that he could have it. You want to come along?”

“Sure,” Spike said.

With that, Rainbow took the pie off of her back and held it in her forearms. She allowed Spike onto her back. Once he was safely secured, she made it back to the VIP area to meet up with the Wonderbolts again. The Wonderbolts all took notice of Spike. Most of them were excited to see him and they politely greeted him. One Wonderbolt, however, wasn’t too keen on the idea of a dragon upstaging him. He wore a flight jacket with a white scarf, had a pale gray cerulean coat, dark lime greenish gray mane and tail with chartreuse greenish grey stripes, a Cutie Mark depicting a flight hat and goggles, and brilliant amber eyes. This was a senior member of the Wonderbolts named Wind Rider.

“Who let him in here?” Wind Rider said.

Rainbow heard Wind Rider’s voice and wouldn’t stand for anyone talking down to Spike. “Princess Celestia gave him a platinum invitation, that’s who. And Flash Sentry let him in the Gala.”

“Wow!” Spitfire said, amazed. “He really must be something special if Princess Celestia gave him a platinum invitation.”

“A dragon getting a platinum invitation?” Wind Rider said. “They’ll give those to anything these days. Even a greedy little monster who doesn’t deserve it.”

“You don’t know Spike the way I know him,” Rainbow said, growing angry. “But, he totally deserves to be here! And he’s definitely no monster! He’s one of the most selfless friends I’ve ever known!”

“He’s a dragon,” Wind Rider said. “Sure, he’s a runt now, but, he’ll grow and terrorize ponies eventually. What then? Why should he even get the same rights as us? He’s not a pony. He’s nothing but a freak!”

“You’re wrong!” Rainbow shouted. “The only one here who’s terrorizing others is you!”

Wind Rider got up in Rainbow’s face. “You can defend that thing and be a traitor or you can be silent and be recruited for the Wonderbolt reserves.”

“Sit your ass down, Wind Rider!” Spitfire said. “You might’ve been on my mom’s team, but, I’m the sergeant now. Remember that.”

Wind Rider held his tongue straight away. He had no choice but to back off. When he disappeared into the crowd, Rainbow turned her attention to Spitfire. None noticed that Spike left.

“Thanks, Spitfire,” Rainbow said. She then looked back to see Spike missing. “Spike? Spike~?!”

Meanwhile, Spike made it to the garden. “That darn older pony,” he muttered to himself. “But, what if he’s right? What if I do cause trouble to my friends and other ponies?” He then saw Fluttershy. “Maybe I just need to calm down and enjoy the garden with Fluttershy.” He walked up to the pegasus Critter Whisperer.

“Oh, hello, Spike,” Fluttershy smiled. “I didn’t think I’d see you out here, but, I’m glad you’re here.”

“You are?” Spike asked.

“Oh, yes,” Fluttershy said. “I met a gardener who worked out here and he told me that the animals weren’t used to other ponies out here. He was right. When I went over to greet the animals, they all hid from me. So, I’m glad you’re here to keep me company.” She nuzzled him gently.

“Thanks, Fluttershy,” Spike smiled. “So far, my night hasn’t been going so well, but, you’re really helping me feel better.”

“What’s wrong, sweetie?” Fluttershy asked.

Spike took a deep breath and confided in her about what happened. Fluttershy hugged the little drake sympathetically. “I’m sorry your night hasn’t been going so well for you. Hopefully I can help you more.”

“Well, how’s the critter thing going?” Spike asked.

“Not so well,” Fluttershy admitted. “I was hoping that if I was really calm, they’d feel comfortable and come out.”

“When it comes to critters,” Spike said. “You become ecstatic.”

“So, what can I do?” Fluttershy asked. “I’m normally not the one to ask, but, your input might help me.”

“I’m not sure how much it’ll help,” Spike admitted. “I’ve never actually seen the critters here.”

“Oh, dear,” Fluttershy said, remembering the mistreatment Spike endured that he told her about. She was worried that she had opened up any old wounds. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay,” Spike reassured. “I barely know how to deal with critters as it is.”

“Oh, I see,” Fluttershy said. “Hmm, maybe I just need to try again and reintroduce myself. This time, I’ll be calmer.” She took a deep breath and approached the critters, who took notice of Spike. They hid even deeper.

“Uh oh,” Spike said. “They must not be used to dragons, either. Now I’m really messing things up…”

Before Fluttershy had a chance to comfort him, Spike wandered off.

Spike soon spotted Rarity with Blueblood and quickly made sure the latter didn’t see him. He soon made his way into the ballroom where he saw Pinkie moping at a table by her lonesome. “Are you okay, Pinkie?”

“Not really,” Pinkie said sadly. “This party is not like I dreamt it would be.”

“Underwhelming?” Spike said.

“Yeah,” Pinkie said. “How about you?”

“At first, underwhelming,” Spike said. “Then, it was like every other day of my life before coming to Ponyville.”

“Aww, I’m sorry,” Pinkie said sympathetically. She gave him a gentle yet affectionate hug. She was a bit too gloomy to give him a stronger hug. “There must be something that can be done to cheer us both up.”

“Well,” Spike suggested. “How about you try livening things up? This party’s so boring that I’d take getting my fangs pulled out at this point.”

Pinkie considered this. Then, she felt a jolt of inspiration. She snuck up to the band and whispered something in each of the bandmates’ ears. They stopped playing their instruments to hear Pinkie’s request. Spike listened intently while being confused at Pinkie defying gravity. When the band was ready, Pinkie walked up to the microphone.

“Come on, everypony!” She said. “I know what’ll make you shake those groove-thangs!” She pointed to the band.

“You reach your right hoof in
You reach your right hoof out
You reach your right hoof in
Then, you shake it all about
You do the Pony Pokey meeting lots of folks with clout
That’s what I’m talking about”

Spike started dancing to the song.

“You step your left hoof in
You pull it right back out
You step your left hoof in
But you better help him out
You do the Pony Pokey, but, you’ll find a different route
That’s what it’s all about

You kick your back left in
You pull it right back out
You reach your back left in
Just be brave and have no doubt
You do the Pony Pokey feeling like you’re going to pout
That’s what I’m singing about

You tilt your head in
You tilt your head out
You tilt your head in
Then you shake it all about
You do the Pony Pokey even though your date’s a lout
You’re better off without

You stomp your whole self in
You stomp your whole self out
You stomp your whole self in
And you stomp yourself about
You do the Pony Pokey and you give a little shout
That’s what I’m talking about

You do the Pony Pokey
You do the Pony Pokey
You do the Pony Pokey and
That’s what it’s all about!
Yeah~!”

“Young lady,” Lyrica Lilac scolded. “This is not that kind of party! That was bad enough, but, letting that ghastly beast who has no right being here to begin with participate is just disgraceful!”

“Hey!” Pinkie called from the stage as Spike started walking off in shame. “Spike is not a ghastly beast! At least he has good enough listening skills to participate!”

Spike didn’t notice that he was headed straight for Blueblood. He ended up bumping into the prince and landed on his rump. He looked up to see the prince scowling at him and his shame quickly gave way to fear. “Oh, uh, Blueblood!”

“That’s Prince Blueblood to you, you overgrown lizard!” Blueblood said while levitating Spike with his magic. “Who do you think you are, beast? You have no business being here, you scale-ridden freak!”

Rarity was listening to every word as Twilight, the Princesses, Rainbow, Applejack, and Caramel all stepped into the ballroom. Twilight’s friends couldn’t believe what they were hearing. Flash flew in to intervene.

“This has gone far enough, Blueblood,” Flash said.

“Stay out of this, buffoon,” Blueblood said. “This demon spawn has no business being here. It’s not a pony, it’s an abomination. A monster. And I’m not the only one who sees that. It was born a monster and it’ll die a monster. It should be sent to Tartarus, where it belongs!” He then used his magic to toss Spike into a serving trolley with a big cake. The little dragon was buried in the cake.

To Rarity, that was the straw that broke the camel’s back. She already was having a hard time getting along with Prince Blueblood for his poor behavior towards her, but, seeing him physically and emotionally abuse Spike? That was completely unforgivable in her book. In that moment, she realized that all the stories Spike told her were true. She quickly went to get Spike out of the cake.

“Oh, Spike,” Rarity said empathetically. “I am so terribly sorry.”

“Don’t waste your manners on that feral beast,” Blueblood said. “It’s not like it has feelings.”

Hearing Blueblood continue to insult her beloved Spikey-Wikey finally made her snap. She turned and growled, her alabaster white face turning red with unbridled anger.

“YOU, sir, are the most uncharming prince I have ever met!” Rarity snapped. “I may have only met one prince officially, but, you are not the kind of prince that should rule Equestria! In fact, the only thing royal about you is that you are a royal PAIN!” She continued ranting while getting closer to him. “Given enough time, I might have been able to eventually forgive your treatment of ME, though, that was when I was working under the assumption that you were only using the jerk persona to discourage the gold diggers. However, your treatment of SPIKE makes me realize that I was wrong about that assumption. Your behavior doesn't even have the excuse of being a ruse! I truly wonder exactly how you're going to provide an heir for your family because I don't see how ANY mare would think that any amount of money would be worth putting up with you long enough to have a child with you and no sensible adoption agency would even let you in the front door! That young drake is already more of a true gentlestallion than you will EVER be! He deserves to be treated better and he WILL be treated better.”

“Know your place!” Blueblood said. “This Gala is ruined by the presence of that beast. Whoever let that scaly monster in is clearly insane.”

Prince Blueblood gave an overzealous smirk, but, when he saw Princess Celestia sternly walking up to him, his smirk quickly faded.

“Princeton Vladimir Blueblood!*******” she scolded.

Blueblood froze in fear as both princesses approached him.

“You are a descendant of the princess of the stars,” Luna said. “Yet your actions are a stain upon her legacy.”

“But-” Blueblood stammered to say, but, Celestia promptly interrupted him.

“You are a vain, prejudiced, and cruel stallion!” the princess of the sun scolded. “Maybe it was my fault for not teaching you the value of others even when they are different, but, I really had expected better of you! If that is how you talk down to a dependable dragon such as Spike, then how can I expect to trust you around other ponies?!”

“Dragons are monsters!” Blueblood protested. “That one is, too!”

“He is but a child!” Luna shouted. “Species is irrelevant!”

“And you are acting like a real monster by being cruel and relentless towards said child!” Princess Celestia said. “I will not tolerate such things in my kingdom. As punishment, I sentence you to the remainder of your days in the dungeon, stripped of your title, rank, and privileges!”

“WHAT?!” Prince Blueblood gasped. “Y-you can’t do this to me!”

“I just did,” Princess Celestia said sternly. “Shining Armor, Flash Sentry, take him away!”

Shining Armor cast magical chains on Blueblood’s neck.

“All like-minded elites shall share in his fate,” Luna declared. “Such segregation and ostracization is what birthed Nightmare Moon nearly 1,000 years ago.”

The elitist ponies muttered amongst each other taking the princesses’ words to heart. As Shining and Flash led Blueblood away, Spike sat in a fetal position and started to cry. Twilight cradled Spike in her embrace.

“I’m so sorry, Spike,” Twilight said. “We never should have brought you here if things would turn out to be this terrible.”

At that moment, Fluttershy entered the ballroom. “Where’s Spike?!” she shouted.

Twilight showed Spike to Fluttershy with him still in her embrace, tears running down his cheeks. Fluttershy’s first instinct was to go over and comfort him. Before she got the chance, Spike leapt out of Twilight’s embrace and ran off in tears.

“Spike, wait!” Twilight called. Too late, Spike was out the door. Twilight turned her attention to her friends. They were all worried about Spike. Even the Gala attendees looked worried. Though, Twilight could tell that most of them were doing it as a facade. “Come on, girls, we need to follow him.”

“Where could he have run off to?” Rarity asked, concern present in her voice.

“If I know Spike,” Twilight said. “There’s one place he would want to go to if he’s ever feeling gloomy.”

Outside the castle, Spike ran through the streets before stopping outside the door to Donut Joe’s. He curled up into a fetal position and let his tears run.

“Everypony was right,” Spike sobbed. “I really am a monster. I wish I was never even hatched.”

Twilight, Caramel, and the other bearers of the Elements of Harmony managed to catch up with him.

“Spike!” Twilight said, panting to catch her breath.

Spike could only reply with sobs. The friends allowed Spike to let out his emotions while also giving him a gentle group hug. Even Pinkie managed to restrain herself from squeezing too hard.

“I try so hard,” Spike said sadly. “I spend most of my life learning about ponies so I can be accepted. Or at least not hated.”

“We don’t hate you, Spike,” Fluttershy said sincerely. “The others just have a hard time with things they don’t understand.”

“Yeah,” Applejack said. “None o’ this is yer fault. Those ponies’re quick ta make up their minds ‘bout somethin’ before gettin’ ta know 'em. We didn’t understand Zecora at first, but, now that we got ta know her, we can say she’s one o’ our friends, now.”

“And we have you to thank for that, Spike,” Rainbow said. “You chewed us out while we had our heads up our asses.”

“You mean a lot to us, Spike,” Pinkie said. “Just because those other ponies said nasty things about you, it doesn’t mean they’re right. If they got to know the real you like we did, they would see how amazing you really are.”

“A part of me suspected you were exaggerating those stories,” Rarity said. “But, I see now that I was wrong.” She nuzzled him. “I’m so sorry for doubting you. That’s a mistake I won’t make again.”

“We’re sorry for all that you went through, Spike,” Twilight said. “We know you’re feeling down right now, but, we want to do everything we can to help you feel better. Maybe a few rounds of Donut Joe’s donuts and cocoa will be a start.”

Later, Spike and his pony friends were having donuts, but, Spike didn’t eat them with his usual enthusiasm. After swallowing his mouthful of donut, he said in a sad voice, “I’m sorry for ruining your best night ever, guys.”

“You didn’t, Spike,” Twilight said. “Most of that came from us getting our hopes up too high.”

“That’s right,” Fluttershy said. “Even with all of the critters in the garden, I’m glad to have spent a little bit of time with you.”

“And this experience with Prince Blueblood left a bad taste in my mouth,” Rarity said.

“I’m not surprised,” Rainbow said. “I’ll just say it, that prince is a douchebag.”

“So really, Spike,” Pinkie added. “You don’t have anything to apologize for, because you didn’t do anything wrong. It’s those snobs that were wrong.”

“Ah’m sure the princesses’ll understand that we didn’t mean ta cause any trouble,” Applejack said.

“I don’t blame any of you for anything,” Celestia’s voice said.

The friends turned their attention to see not only Princess Celestia at the entrance of the donut shop, but, Princess Luna and Canis were also present.

“Neither do Canis and I,” Luna added.

“I may not have been there,” Canis said. “But, I can only imagine that it was an improvement over the previous Galas.”

“Indeed,” Celestia said. “This year’s Gala was definitely more eventful than previous Galas. The Grand Galloping Gala is always awful.”

“It is?” Twilight gasped in surprise.

“Did your brother never tell you?” Celestia asked.

Twilight tried to recall any sort of event in which Shining Armor told her about the Gala and its awfulness. “He might have,” Twilight said. “But, it must have slipped my mind. I guess I was more focused on the idea of spending time in Canterlot with you two and Spike, since he was able to go this time.”

“And look how that turned out,” Spike said. “It turned out to be every other day of my life before we moved to Ponyville.”

“I owe you an apology, Spike,” Princess Celestia said. “With Luna being imprisoned in the moon for a millennia, I’ve neglected to inform the Canterlot elites of dragons’ values. If anypony is to blame for your sadness, it’s me. But, I promise to set things right with you until everypony in Canterlot can understand the true value of other respectable creatures such as yourself. By the next Gala, the ponies only rule will be abolished. In honor of you, invitations can be offered to other sentient creatures that wish to attend.”

Spike was truly humbled by Celestia’s apology and he felt honored about the new Gala’s rules. “Thank you, princess,” he said. “But, after what happened tonight, I don’t think I want to attend another Gala for a while.”

“Me neither,” Twilight said. “After tonight, I don’t think I ever want to put my son through another ordeal like that.”

“I understand,” Celestia said. “But, should you ever change your mind, know that an invitation will always be open for you.”

And with that, Princess Celestia gently rubbed Spike’s left cheek.

“We’ll still see you for our next group therapy session, won’t we?” Luna asked.

“Of course,” Spike said. “I definitely need it after tonight.” Canis jumped onto Spike and hugged him tight.

“Is nopony going to ask how that plush dog is alive?” Rainbow asked.

“Magic,” Luna explained, matter of factly. “Canis here is a toy I received as a filly and has held great sentimental value to me ever since. My love for him gave him life. During my exodus within the moon, the love that gave him life could no longer sustain him.”

“Indeed,” Princess Celestia smiled. “Speaking of sentimental value and love, would you say that all of you being here spending time together has made things alright?”

“Honestly,” Spike said. “The experience is still painful, but, with my friends here and a few donuts, it doesn’t feel as bad.”

“Yeah, that is a good lesson to learn,” Twilight said. “Friends have a way of making the hardest of times into something really special.” She gently nuzzled Spike as she continued. “Hanging out with friends, talking, laughing, and sharing sweet treats. Essentially, doing what we should have done all along.”

“Hey, Spike?” Caramel said. “Have you ever played Ogres and Oubliettes?”

“I do know about it, yeah,” Spike said. “Shining Armor showed me how to play when I was growing up. Of course, I was at an age where I was barely able to understand Ponish, but, still. Why?”

“Well, Big Mac and I play it together every week,” Caramel said. “Would you like to be part of it?”

This made Spike really excited. “Boy, would I!” he said happily. “Thanks! Though, do you think you can explain the rules for me when the time comes?”

“Sure,” Caramel said. “Big Mac and I’ll be able to help with that. Though, uh, you may have to remind me when that time comes. I might forget before then.” He chuckled to himself at that.

“I think I have a solution for that,” Twilight said.

“You do?” Caramel asked. “What is it?”

Twilight levitated a quill, inkwell, and napkin over. “Name the day of the week and the time and I’ll write them down now so Spike can remind you later.”

“Friday at sundown,” Caramel said. That at least, Caramel could remember.

Twilight wrote this down. “At your place or Sweet Apple Acres?”

“Caramel lives in one o’ the guest houses at Sweet Apple Acres,” Applejack said. “So, both o’ them options woulda been right.”

“Maybe for Spike’s first session,” Caramel suggested. “We can have it at the library.”

“That’s a great idea,” Twilight smiled. “I do have a good gametable you guys can use for your game. Granted, it’s a stump, but, serviceable at least.”

Spike was more happy in that moment than he could remember being in his life. He knew then that even if all Equestria turned against him, he would still have a group of loyal friends to support him. He and his friends would go on many adventures and learn many more things over the years. But, those are stories for another time.

End of Book 1.

My Little Pony: Nine Elements Book 1

by BlueBioWolf

Chapter 1: The Mare in The Moon (S1:E1)

Chapter 2: The Elements of Harmony (S1:E2)

Chapter 3: The Ticket Masters (S1:E3)

Chapter 4: Applebuck Season (S1:E4)

Chapter 5: Griffon the Brush-Off (S1:E5)

Chapter 6: Boast Busters (S1:E6)

Chapter 7: Dragonshy (S1:E7)

Chapter 8: Look Before You Sleep (S1:E8)

Chapter 9: Bridle Gossip (S1:E9)

Chapter 10: Swarm of the Century (S1:E10)

Chapter 11: Fall Weather Friends (S1:E13)

Chapter 12: Call of the Cutie (S1:E12)

Chapter 13: Winter Wrap Up (S1:E11)

Chapter 14: Suited for Success (S1:E14)

Chapter 15: Feeling Pinkie Keen (S1:E15)

Chapter 16: Sonic Rainboom (S1:E16)

Chapter 17: Stare Master (S1:E17)

Chapter 18: The Show Stoppers (S1:E18)

Chapter 19: A Dog and Pony Show (S1:E19)

Chapter 20: Green Isn't Your Color (S1:E20)

Chapter 21: Over a Barrel (S1:E21)

Chapter 22: A Bird in the Hoof (S1:E22)

Chapter 23: The Cutie Mark Chronicles (S1:E23)

Chapter 24: Owl's Well that Ends Well (S1:E24)

Chapter 25: Party of One (S1:E25)

Chapter 26: The Best Night Ever (S1:E26)