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bendelsohn
|
990
| 2 |
Applejack,Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Rarity,Twilight Sparkle,Dark,Random,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore
|
Friendship is ninjas
|
When an ancient enemy decends on Equestria, will Applejack and Twilight be apple to fight it off?
|
complete
| 11 | 4 |
<p>Twilight and Applejack must work together to defeat an ancient foe! But more importantly, can they survive each other? With only two of them and lots of adversaries, how long can they last? (if you are not able to guess, this is a trollfic.Hoping I don't get eaten, but it seems as though the trollfic ban has passed.)</p>
|
teen
|
2011-09-26T23:42:02+00:00
|
2011-09-26T23:42:02+00:00
| 1,642 |
FRIENDSHIP IS NINJAS 2: THE EVILEST EVIL
By Bendelsohn
Chapter 1: poni ga suki
Fluttershy was a sad ponie.
She herd about Twilight’s deah and was cryin in her house. She hadt come out for three whole days! Twiliht was her teecher and she lieked her a lot but now that she was dead she couldt train anymore! She would be bad ninja forever and that would be bad because she wanted to be good ninja! Suddenly Pinkie Pie.
“Fluttershu come out and eat food or you will dies!” said Pinkie.
“No I will cry forever because that is what good friend would do!” sayd Fluttrshy.
“No it is what bad friend is do!” said Pinkie “Now go and fight the ninjas befiore eberyone is die!”
So Fluttershy said ok pinkie and stopped crying and ate food so she woldn’t starve and die. and then she said ok I need to tak to cestia now so she went to talk to celestia in canterlot by flying there with her wigs.
Fluttersgy was very tired on the way ther because she was not as strong as Twiiligt. She only had black belts on 13 martial arts and 6 super blac belts. She was also scare about what celistia would maek her do.
“What if shee maeks me fighjt 8 milleon ninjas!?” she said. “Or makes me do her ebvil bidding if she becombs evil!”
She get to CElesltis house in cantrlot. It was a big house that was also a catle and it made flutrshy feel small wen she loked at it. It was so big it almost had gavity but it did not. Fluttsershy went in and saw Celestia.
Celestia said “Fkuttershy, my new moist faithful student, I know you herd that twilight died and it makes me very sad as well. However, there is more ninja in equrstrias and we Dont know why. Please kill all the ninjas and save the world, and find out who killed twolight and kill them too please. This is a dengerous mishin so you can has Rarity to help you kill all the ninjas.”
Suuddenly celestia cried.
“OH YOU REMIND ME SOO MUCH OF MY OLD STUDNT TWILIGT AND I DON’T WANT YU TO DIE I HOPE SHE TEACH YOU GOOD!”
And while Celestia was :( flutershy and rarity left to fight the ninjas.
Chapter 2: poni o futatsu or is it ni I don’t know Japanese is hard
rarity and fluttershy went look for ninjas. Rarity only had 11 blak belts and 4 supr black belts but it was ok bvecause she had a super-mega-black belt in pony-wing-chun and that counts as like 4 black belts and she was also a samuray!
“Twilight said we must always use weapon to kill the ninjas!” Said fluttrshy
But I donot have weapon sid rarity because she left her samuray sword at home.
“Then yiu must be weapon!” say fluttershy!
Suddenly ninjas.
Chapter 3: Poni wa ninja ga kirai
The ninjas were not good ninjas becuase there was only 100 of them and rarity and fluttershy killed them all in 10 seconds flat. But then they got up and started attacking agin.
“O NO THESE ARE NOT NORMAL NINJAS! THESE ARE ZOMBIE NINJA AND WE MUST CUT OFF ALL OF THEY HEADS!” exlaimeed flutershy.
“IMMPOSSIBRU!”
So Fluttershy cut off they heads with her sword of ancient magicness that she get from twilight when she was not died and rarity did not kno what to do. She could not kick the ninjas because she is a lady-like pony and blood makes her hooves dirty and that would be bad! But then she remebered fluttershys adivce and she knew what to do and said “I KNOW WAT TO DO!” and she turnd her horn into a laser katana and cut all of the zombies heads off of them and made them dead again and they would never com back. When the fight was over there was a million gallons of ninja blood everywhere but not on rarity because she is a clean samuray pony!
Fluttershy said “that was super cool how do?” and rarity said I took yur advice and became a weapon! And fluutershy was really happy because she taght rarity liek twilit had taught her! And they laughed and laughed and laughed.
“but now i remember that twilight is deeeeeeead!” Fluttershy said in first person. And then she cried a lot and it made rarity sad to see her and everyone was :(.
Chapter 4: honto ga arimasen
“OH NO THATS TERIBLE!” SAid applejack, who was actually zomniejack but was wearing her not-ded costum. “zombie ninjas ah not expect that!” but she was a liar because she did expect that! she sent the zombie ninja to kill everyone but she did not tell them that.
Rarity said “I don trust trust her she smells like dead!”
“thats mean ans you should not say that! Just because someone smells dead does not maek them dead!”
And rarity knew fluttershy was right and she said sorry.
Applejack was scare for a sec but when she realized flutterhsy still lieked her so she wasn’t.
And then applejack was like “there is ninja in everferee forest now! kill they!”
And so they went.
Chapter 5: メアリースー
One day Fluttershy and rarity were killing ninjas in the Everfree Forest when they saw the most beautiful Stallion they had ever seen. He was an alicorn with a bright red mane and a black coat and he had differen color eyes and he was cover in blood and not doing anything but looking super sad :(. He also has super-mega black belts in all the martial arts. Both rerity and Fluttershu instantly fell in love with him but they din’t say it and started blushi. It was the most love that they had ever been in. They always new friendship but not love and it felt very strange because they were more in love with the staliin than they were in friendship with each other.
“ Why are you sad and name?” asked rarity while still blushing because she was in so much love.
In the most amazing monotone voice in the universe, he said “I am sad becuase I am super powerful and noone understands me and Emoheart.”
And as he sai this they all relized he was in the middle of a pile of 40000 dead ninjas. Everyon felt sorry for him and was in love with him because he was perfect so they took him home.
When they got home everyone was surpise because everyone was die. Fluttershy was >:0 and rarity was D: and Emoheart said “This perfectly represent the melencholy of my entire life and I am a unique snowflake.” and was T_T.
As the entered pontvile eveyting was destroyed and broken really bad! Ther was fire and ruble and flood everywhere!
Fluttershy said “I MUST KILL THE ON RESPONSIBL!”
Suddenly applejack said “I AM!” while stabbing a pony with kinfe with the fast hoofs. and everypony was very suprises because they thought appljak was good but really she was zonbie ninjas the whole time!
Flutir shy said “YOU KILL TWILIGHT YOU ARE BUTTFACE I WIIL DESTROY YOU UNTIL YOU ARE REALLY REALLY DEAD!” and she ran at him like twilight ran at te boss ninja but slower because she want as strong, but appajack was also too fast and kicked fluttershy really hard but not so hard she would die. Rarity brought her sword this time and it was 20 feet long and made of friendship. She swung but applejacc jumped over it and kicked rarity and made her face dity!
“Please help us with youer super-magic power!”
But Emoheart said “No I must broood my past b4 I can help because I am rlly sad!”
So the ponies said ok and kept fighting applejack. But apple jack was win and kicked them so hard they could not move.
“HAHAHA! YALL CAN NEVER BEAT ZOMBIEJACK UNTIL YOU LEARN TO FRIENDSHIP BETTER!” and then Zombiejack went to escape.
“I am done brooding now! But Zombiejack got away and that make me even sadder!”
And all the ponies were super sad that ponyville was broken and thet Emoheart was sad but they did not say because they looved him and wnted to think they were strong. But since he was perfekt he knew a spell that could telepots them to zombiejack so he did.
Chapter 6: Genzai jisei
Emoheart teleprots them to Zombiejack. When she sees them she is all surprised but is happi because she thinks she is can kill them now. Sflutterhi and RAriti draw their wepons and Emoheart is brooding and being increadbly sexy. Applejak lafs and take out a nife. combat is begin.
Flutershy and rarity have now learned to do friendship and wok togehter to figt. and try to win really good. Applejack is still wining thouh, because she is fas and strong. She can doge ther attacks and kick them and it hurts a lot! This makes them very fustraed! bUT They kep trying until rarity hits her with her 20 foot katana!
“OW! that was hurt a lot but this will be more pain than explosion!”
And then zombiejack jumps over rarity and is about to stab her when Flutrshy jumps into the nife and is stab by it.
“OW! I have save your life wit mine and now you must take zombiejacks even if she is ded!”
And Fluttershy is die.
Rarity says “OH NO FLUTTERSHY! I’M GOING TO-”
But she cannot finish because rarity is ded to because zombiejack stabs her until she dies.
Zombiejack says “And now for you, you amazingly attractive and flawless pony!” But when she stab him her knife is breks. Then Emoheart uses his super-magic to make the bigest explosion ever. The explosion was so super duper massive it is can be seen from spaec! And everythin close and far to the axplosion became nothing except for Emoheart because he maked the explosion and he is perfect and cannot be harmed. Everyting was bright. It was the biggest explosion in the history of explosions.
intermission: Watashi wa supesu ni imasu
Joe Spacepony really likd space. That was where he was and it made him happy. Enquestra had 4 moons and he was on the third moon. He had no reason t bein space, but he was boerd do he go to space. He brogt his space sut though so he didn’t die of not having oxegen.
“Joe spacepony to commander I am in space right now.” said Joe.
“That is good. Please continue to be in space so we can learn space things! For Equestria!”
Joe Spacepony like space, but He liked equestris more, so he was suprised when it looked like it asploded.
“Commanders what happen!?” He said confusedly.
“Everything is explode! EVERYTHING IS EXPLODE!”
And Joe could only watch as the most fabulously gorgeous and perfect , yet still special and misunderstood explosion he had ever seen destroyed everything.
Chapter 7: poni wa Emoheart ga totemo suki
After the xploson Emoheart was the only thing left in world. Te explosion was so big that everypony died, except for Emoheart who is perfect. but it was ok because Emoheart used his super magic to unexplode everthing but zombiejack, who are now microscopic peeces of zombiejack. He also revived everypony who he had killed except zombiejack with his super-magic. Fluttershy and rarity came back to lyfe and then they were so in love with him that they both saiid “I LOVE YOU EMOHEART BECAUS YOU ARE THE PERFECT!” and Emoheart said “WHY DOES NOPONY UNDERSTANDS ME!” and he was dissapear. And so Rarity and flutrshty were sad and happy because their tru love had left them but everone was alive again so they went back to ponyville to have a happysad pary!
EVerypony came to the party and even though it was a happysad party it was mostly happy because pinky pie maed it and pinky pie is always happy! So all the ponies were celebrte the most happiest time of they life because they are not ded. Ghost Twilight and ghost applejack, but not zombiejack were also there. It made Fluttershy very happu to see twilite even if she was dead. Then Emoheart appeared and Twilighte fell in love with him and he fell in love with her and they were kiss and live happy forever after.
Chapter 8: epiloge desu
10 years after the figt with zombiejack Fluttershy was 10 years older and trained more so she had 21 vlack belt and 17 super black belts!. Celestia was die from zombie cancer so Rarity became te new overlard and she rules with iorn fist! ghost Twilight and Emoheart live happily together and will forever because Emoheart is perfect and dosnt age.
“I am so happy for yu too!” say fluttershy.
“Tank you! ^.^” sayd twillight.
“Now that someone understands me I no longer understand myself.” said Emoheart emoly.
Suddenly princess Luna.
“Emoheart I need you to comewith me because I will tell you something imprtant.”
So he went and said wat is it? And then they made out and then Emoheat gave all the royal gards acne and it was realy funny. And he wasnt cheating on ghost Twilight because Emoheart is perfect and cheatin is bad, so he was just making out completely platoniculy. And when they were done twilight came in and they all maked out together, because friendship.
TE END
|
bendelsohn
|
990
| 3 |
Applejack,Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Rarity,Twilight Sparkle,Dark,Random,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore
|
Friendship is ninjas
|
When an ancient enemy decends on Equestria, will Applejack and Twilight be apple to fight it off?
|
complete
| 11 | 4 |
<p>Twilight and Applejack must work together to defeat an ancient foe! But more importantly, can they survive each other? With only two of them and lots of adversaries, how long can they last? (if you are not able to guess, this is a trollfic.Hoping I don't get eaten, but it seems as though the trollfic ban has passed.)</p>
|
teen
|
2012-03-18T03:01:13+00:00
|
2012-03-18T03:01:13+00:00
| 1,236 |
Friendship is ninjas: the training of Fluttershy
By bendelsohn
Fluttershy did not know wht to be do.
She was feeling guilt because she killed a bear which is not kind at all. She told it to go to her for masage but it forgot to pay so she kill it. Out of respekt, she decided to do the respectfulll thing to do; Burn te body. Harry was a popular bear and lotsa ponys lieked him so whe hopped nopony saw her and she hoped it didn’t hur when she snaped its neck so hard he was die. She started the task of begining to bun the body and it smelled bad and she almost stopped but she didnt.
As she was doin this another pony came. His name was dan Spacepony and he was really liked space but he also was friends with Harry the beaar. When he saw fluttershy burning Harry the Bear he said “OH NO I MUST TELL ALL THE PONY THAT YOU FLUTTERSHY ARE MURDER!” said Dan at top of his lugs and he ran super fast. Fluttrshy heard him and sayd
“Oh no no pony can kno!” and she went super duper fast to catch him! Dan was almost escaped when Fluttershy caught him. She did a backflip and a barrel roll and kicked him in his space face.
Dan said nooooooooooo tell my brother I died!” but then he died.
nOW Fluttershy was even more scared. She had killed a bear and a pony and she would be in troubles if anypony found out. She began to begin dragging the bodie away when it dissapeared.
“Wow my luck is amazing now I don’t have to hide the body :D” said fluttreshy but then twilight came out from a bush and said
“no fluttershy that was my magics.”
“Oh no you saw I must kill you too now!” said flutsershy
“No I don’t want to turn you in! I have been watching you for a long time because you are good at fighting.”
“But Im not good at figting I only hav 2 black belts!”
“that is because you donnot train but I can train you!”
“but you cannot train me you are too old!” Said fluttershy because twilight was old now.
“But old ponies are wisest so I am a good teacher!”
So fluttershy said ok and the training was to begn.
Twilight was a good teacher because she mad fluttershy do 50000 hoof-ups and 600000 crunches and this made fluttershy really strong! Twilight also trained her for 5000 hours in pony-jutsu because she was the best at pony jutsu! By then fluttrshy had 4 black-bets in pony jutsu! She also tried to learn apple kung fi but twiligt was not good at apple king-fu so she only got black belt.
“Ok fluuttershy today we will train with swords. Please go there and pick up sword.”
So fluttershy went and picked up a sword.
“Now swing the sword!”
And fluttershy did. She was the most best sword swinger twilight had ever seen! She could swing left and right and backwards and stab! And then Tluttershy said did I doit right?
“yes you do it right! You are
the best sword swinger in Equestrias!”
And fluttershy was happy so the had a party but it was a short party because ninjas are disiplned an partis are not so they didn’t even get drunk!
Fluttershy was cover is sweat. She had finished her practice for cutting solid steel with a sword and was tired.
“Twilight I’m done can I take break now?
but Tilight said “NO NINJAS TRAIN FOREVAR”
“D:”
“Don’t complaion miss now go practic killing alicorn with death kill!”
And so she did.
Fluttershy was all sad now because she was so tired and stuff. She traned until 3 in the mornin and the fell asleep because twilight was not let her take breaks. She did not want to be ninja anymoar because it was hard. Ninja life should be fun! and she did not kno wy it wasnot. Shw stated humming her lullabi to gherself and she almost creid. She was lieing in her room and being das when twilight came.
“Why are you so sad”
“because you don’t let me not stop.
“but uoi are ninjas now so u must train really hard to be good nija and fight for equestria! I am old and I know what am doing so trust me k?” Fluttershy was like k and then they went to sleep.
Fluttershy felt all good in the morning. She had a pony-tart for breakfast and went outside where twiloght would be wiating for her. She felt redy and able to do the super training twilight invented. She saw a new person today. Who could it be? Flutershy did not know. It was a big pony with a bif beard and a hat tht looked liek braebuns. He walked around and paced and he looked really strong! Fluttershy hopped she could be that strong.
“My naem is buck Norris.”
Fluttershy sqee’d. Buck norris was all famous friom being the bestest ninja evar! He had killed so many ebil ninjas it was liek 1000000000005000000000000 of them! Fluttershy tried to touch his beard but it punched her so she did not.
“I am your guest instroctor today! Today we learn to swing a sword and fly at the same tim!”
Buck picked a sword from his bag of holding. He flewed uinto the sky and did a backflup and killed a evil ninja in the sky. He kept flying around and it was soooooo amazing! FLuttershy was so impressed and she wanted to do it to! But she tried and she could not doit! then she was scarded. What if she could not do it ever? Would she be a bad ninja forever! Wouild twilight not like her anymore? Would evil ninjas rule FOREVER? Would she be eaten by Twilight? She did not know! She was feel like fail. She was feel like the worst student evar!
My paragraph was interrupted whn Buck said “STOP MOPING OR YOU WILL YOU WILL NOT BE GOOD AND NINJAS EAT YOU!”
And then fluttershy got motivated and she did it! She was soooooo happy nou! She looked for Buck to say thank you ^.^ but she did not sees him.
“Whare did you go Buck?”
Nopony answered.
“Hello? Buck?”
But still nopony answered. She was alone in te light.
She ran into the house and relized that she hadnot seen twilight all dya! Something very strage was going on but she did not know what. She looked for twii but she was nowhere she looked. She runned into ponyville to se if she was their but she was not. She tried to run relly fast to check everfre but then she said “I need to move fast and hoofs are too slow.” So he flew as fast as she could to everfree! She did a sonic flutterboom that eplexplded in butterflys and went into everfree. She went and asked zecora “Did you see twiliht here?” But zercra said no so fluttersh kept looking. She looked everywhere she can think in the city and the forest and the house and she could not find twiliht anywhere! She had almost given up all the hope when she heard a messege in
her brain. It was twilight calling for help because she was foalnapped and fluttershy got really mad because faolnapping is really really bad and fluttershy did not edorse or practice it! She traked the magik messege and went in the direction as fast as could!
Fluttershy landed in the place where twi saiid to go and went to find a purple pony. She went in to the secret base of an unkoed evil and it was veryy dark. Fluttershy tried to seee but she could not “I will need a light now!” said fluttershy smartly. So she went over and foun 2 sticks and she rubbeded them together to make a fire and made a torch. as it got bright fluttershy could see! What she saw was really bad. The base had ninja securty robots that were activate and deadly to kill! There was only 600 robot bu t they were very danger. Fluttershy sniled and took out a sword and said “I am not afraid of robots. If robots could feel fear then you would be die of fear now!”
NinjA securty robots got all mad and atacked but fluttershy just stood there because she was baddass. Then she did 2 blackflips and began to swing her sword at the ninja robot security gaurds. They shoot lazer beams and had firethrowers but they culdn’t hit fluttershy! She galoped and cut the steel ninjas with her sword! She cut them in every direction that ever exist! One came up behin her with a firethrower but she jump back and did a super-back-flip and cut open it’s head and it was so cool all the robots said “Wow!” but then they kep fighting. Spoon fluttershy had killed all of the robots! and she said “I guess those robots couldn’t... steel their nerves.” and then somewhere, some how, in the distance, a pony could hear “YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH.”
By then lights turn on so she didnt need a torch anymore. It was a metal cave that looked like old. She walked trotted so fast and then she reached the end of the tunel. there she saw twilight strapd to a wall and she was like “DO NOT WANT” but then she saw Buck Norris!
“So you found me little pony... welcome to DIE!”
“No, it is wou who will be welcome to die!! DIIIIIIE!”
And Fluttershy chrged at Buck but buck was to fast and he jum[ped over her with his ninja skill! Twilight said “Don’t fight him he too strong!” but fluttershy said “BYEEETCH STFU I GONNA KILL THIS FOO WITH MAH BIG OL’ KNAF!” and so she took her big knif sword and so did buck and they had an amazingsword fight! “What you want with twilight?” asked fluttershy mid-death attack. “I WANT ALL THE MAGICKS!” said buck and then the kept amazing sword fighting. This continue for long time. Eventually they were both tired and they took a break. Then when they were ready the fight again.
They both got som hp back in the break but they bot was hurt. THey thought the fight would last forever and ever! but then fluttershy remembered the morning and said “I KNOW WHTA TO DO!” and she flew above buck! then she spun around and did ta thing! that was all cool stuf! She stabbed buck in the pony face and he died of stab!
Fluttershy went to untie tilight.
She said “are you alright?” and twiligjt said yes and they were happy.
“you are my bestest friend and I hope you never die in faec like buck thar.” excliamed yellow-pink pony.
“me too Fluttershy. Now lets go home.”
|
Eggroll
|
995
| 1 |
Angel,Derpy Hooves,Rainbow Dash,Twilight Sparkle,Winona,Zecora,Alternate Universe,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Vae Victis
|
When Twilight encounters a strange stallion, a chain of events sets off throughout ponyville.
|
incomplete
| -1 | -1 |
<p>An encounter with a spiky haired, brown coated stallion brings in a dark creature from another world, leaving Twilight to figure out the mystery of the tall, suited pony.</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-28T09:40:09+00:00
|
2011-09-28T09:40:09+00:00
| 1,152 |
▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ஜ۩۞۩ஜ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
Harbinger
▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ஜ۩۞۩ஜ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
Twilight Sparkle was spending a day in her library home reading as she had yesterday and the day before that. Spike was still sleeping in the sunny afternoon light in his basket bed, while Twilight went about reading from her seemingly endless stack of books she chose out this morning. She wasn't expecting anypony to come and visit her, seeing how all her friends were busy with their own jobs, unlike yesterday when Pinkie Pie threw a party for all her friends. They all went home late and were probably too tired from the party to even do their jobs. Twilight was partially right; none of her friends did visit her, but somepony else did. As Twilight was studying, a knock on her door startled her, causing her to knock down her ink pot and splattering the black substance over her research papers.
“Aah! My papers! Who could be bothering me now...” grumbled Twilight as she sauntered over to see who was knocking. She grouchily opened the door with her magic and was greeted by a stallion with an almond coat, blue eyes, a spiky, chestnut mane, and an hourglass on his flank.
“Ms. Sparkle? I was told that you know some things about teleportation. Could you please come with me?” said the strange pony.
“I'm sorry? Do I know you? And how did you know that I know a teleportation spell?” replied the confused Twilight Sparkle, who had gone from irritated at the rude interruption to slightly scared at how this pony she had never seen before knew who she was and what she was capable of.
“Ah, I'm sorry. Allow me to introduce myself. My companions call me the Doctor.” he answered proudly.
“Dr. who?” asked Twilight, even more confused than before.
“No, no, just the Doctor. Now, if you would please come with me--”
“Not until I know who you are and what you want from me.” interrupted Twilight getting annoyed once again.
“I already explained, I am the Doctor. Besides, I think what I have would be of high interest to you.”
“Color me interested.” sarcastically replied Twilight while rolling her eyes.
“I'm serious!” said the brown colt quickly. “Are you familiar with the theory of parallel universes? Well, I think with my technology combined with your magic, we can teleport an object from our world to the other universe!” the Doctor said, with a twinkle in his eye. “I saw what you did to that Ursa Minor. I'm more than sure your capable of such a task.”
Looking back at her ruined papers, she thought this couldn't be more than a coincidence, for she was reading a book on the subject of alternate and parallel dimensions. However, Twilight remembered what happened that one day with Pinkie Pie and her "Pinkie Sense".
“Your serious, aren't you?” said Twilight with a sigh, exhausted from this conversation. “Well, I guess it would help further my studies...” Twilight thought to herself out loud.
“I'm sure this experience would be very beneficial for you.” said the colt.
“All right, let me see this technology of yours. I'm fairly certain that no such thing exists. Even if it did, to teleport something from here the generator would have to be huge, so I have no idea where you would store such a device.” said the lavender unicorn with an air of finality.
“Ah, so you've read up on this before? Very well. Follow me! And keep lively now. I'm sure what I have will be very interesting.” replied the Doctor turning around towards the town square. “Oh, by the way, I live on the outskirts of the town, so it'll be about thirty minutes from here.” he added while walking away from Twilight Sparkle's library home.
“Wait!” cried out Twilight.
“What's the matter?” asked the Doctor with a worried tone.
“Nothing's wrong. I just want to grab a book and papers to take notes.” called out Twilight from the midst of her library. “And call a friend...” she said to herself, more quietly now.
Using her magic, Twilight Sparkle picked up her quill and dipped it in ink, jotting down a quick note for Spike explaining where she was. Making sure that the Doctor, if that was who he really was, wasn't in sight, she began to work on a new communication spell that allowed mental messages to be projected to any of the Elements of Harmony. She still had her doubts about the strange pony, and for insurance she wanted to have one of her friends follow her in case something happened. Immediately she thought of Rainbow Dash, the bravest pony she ever knew. She also carried the element of Loyalty, so she was the perfect candidate. Twilight focused all her mental and magic energy on Rainbow Dash, forming a picture of her. Concentrating on the picture, Twilight began to think, “ Rainbow Dash. There's a stranger that has something to show me, and I don't trust him. Could you secretly follow us in case something happens?” Hoping her message was conveyed, she grabbed her saddlebag and filled it with stacks of papers, her writing quill, and the only book in the whole library on the subject of alternate dimensions. Again hoping for the best, she headed towards the door, checking one last time that everything in her library was secure. Trotting out the door, she closed it behind her with her magic, and began the trek towards the strange Doctor's outskirt residence.
During the walk, the Doctor kept going on about how his new invention was the only one of it's kind, quite matter-of-factly. However, he was too busy to see how Twilight kept scanning the skies for any sign of her rainbow-maned friend. Getting more worried with every passing minute, and diverting her full attention to looking for Rainbow Dash, she didn't notice that the Doctor had stopped in front of a blue police box and was proceeding to open the door.
“Here we are!” he said.
“Huh?” said Twilight, snapping out of her trance looking for Rainbow Dash. “What are we doing at a phone booth?”
“It looks bigger on the inside.” replied the Doctor nonchalantly, as if he dealt with the question before.
“What are you talking about? The only way that could be possible would be through magic, and...well, no offense, but your an Earth pony.”
“Ah, but your forgetting that I'm the Doctor! Well, I also possess the technology that enables me to do so.Here, follow me.”
Hesitating at first, Twilight Sparkle reluctantly stepped inside the phone booth thinking that the floor would give way into an underground cavern like in the old spy movies that Spike enjoyed so much. However, to her surprise, it really was bigger on the inside. She couldn't help herself but to stare amazed at the interior, eyes wide open in amazement. "B-but this is surely an illusion!"
"Huh. Not usually what people say. You really are different, aren't you?" said the Doctor while flipping what appeared to be levers and switches. “Now, I've modified the TARDIE to teleport objects to different dimensions. What I need you to do is to cast a teleportation spell on the box in that frame...” he said, nodding his head towards a small metal box, full of Celestia knows what “...while the TARDIE provides the power to finish the job. Got it?” finished the Doctor's instructions.
“One quick question. What's this TARDIE your speaking of?” asked Twilight.
“Well, Tardie is just an acronym for Time and Relative Dimensions in Equestria.” replied the Doctor.
“But, what is the TARDIE?” asked Twilight again.
“Your standing inside of her. Brilliant, isn't it? The chameleon circuit allows 'er to disguise as anything on the outside.” answered the proud looking Doctor. “However, the circuit's busted and I'm stuck with this police box and...well, I can explain it to you later. I don't even know what a police box is.. Right now, I think we should take her out for a spin. Now, just focus a teleportation spell on the metal box and the TARDIE'll do the rest.”
“For a teleportation spell to work, I need to have a picture in my mind of what or where I'm teleporting this box to.” said Twilight.
“No worries! If my calculations are right, you just need to think of anywhere in all of Equestria. If where we're teleporting this to IS a parallel dimension, we should be fine.” replied the Doctor.
“All right, if you say so...” said Twilight, preparing for the spell. Tilting her horn towards the metal box, Twilight pictured her library home, when she suddenly remembered something, interrupting the process. “Wait! If I picture the place where I want this box to be teleported to, wouldn't it be teleported to that place instead of the parallel universe?”
“Well...” said the Doctor, “The TARDIE is capable of jumping dimensions, but that costs a lot of energy, SO I created this right here.” explained the Doctor. “It's more like...a big amplifier, really, because dimension hopping is just teleporting. This'll amplify your spell an' convert the coordinates to the place you choose and amplify the spell. Real easy stuff.”
“Um...okay.” Twilight said, busy writing the information down on her papers. “Okay, I understand now.” Twilight said, taking up the stance for her teleportation spell again. “Here we go...” she said doubtingly, still not believing a word that the Doctor was saying. Focusing all of her energy on imagining her library home in Ponyville, her horn began to glow. Feeling the usual rush of adrenaline kicking in while performing a spell, she started to imagine the box disappearing with the usual purple implosion of energy, and then exploding with a purple light in her library home. She kept picturing this thought in her mind, when she heard and felt something different.
“Keep it up! It's working! It's converting the coordinates to the alternate dimension now!” shouted the Doctor over a loud rush of wind. “Don't mind the wind, it's just opening a miniature black hole into the alternate dimension!” shouted the Doctor once again.
The teleportation spell didn't feel right, though. She felt multiple presences besides the box she was teleporting, her self, and the Doctor. “Somethings not right! I feel something else!” shouted Twilight, her full attention on keeping her eyes shut and teleporting the box.
“What?!” said the Doctor in his usual way. “What!?” he said again. “Somethings coming through the hole! Stop the spell! Stop the spell now!” he screamed, frantically flipping switches on the control panel of the amplifier.
Of course, she couldn't. She had to let the spell continue. If she broke the spell now, she knew there would be a massive feedback that would totally obliterate the TARDIE, in addition to the Doctor and herself. Plus the force that was teleporting through was getting stronger now. It was almost like it knew what the Doctor was saying, and it was rushing to get through the black hole that was now a bluish hue.
“Gah!” shouted the Doctor. “Control's are broke! I can't shut it down!” said the Doctor, as the sound of an nearby explosion shook Twilight out of her trance between the being and her spell. Slowly opening her eyes, Twilight saw the Doctor at the control panel with some kind of steel pen with a blue light at the end of it in his mouth. However, she quickly ignored this thought as she saw something emerging from the now purple black hole. The first thing that came out was the head of a pony with spiky brown hair, a brown, leather jacket on, and a cutie mark of a red circle with an “X” through the center. She couldn't see his face, because it was hidden behind a mask so that all you could see were his eyes. He looked directly at Twilight and the Doctor, and pushed Twilight out of the way as he ran towards the exit. The force of his tackle was extraordinary, as it knocked her into a wall behind her, almost incapacitating her.
“Oh, this is bad...” Twilight heard nearby her. She felt a hoof help her up and push her towards the direction of the door to the TARDIE. “Run! Run as fast as you can to Ponyville! And don't come back!” instructed the Doctor.
Stumbling towards the door, she looked behind herself to see the Doctor being attacked by a completely white creature, making a series of growling and snarling similar to Applejack's pet dog Winona. It crawled low on the floor and pounced on the Doctor, pinning him to the door as it started to rake him with long claws, one claw on the end three-jointed columns attached to where it's hooves should be. Finally making it to the door, Twilight glanced over at the Doctor who was laying still on the floor with the creature on top of him. Still too a bit groggy from the tackle from that strange pony in a mask, she took one last glance at the portal, to see one last creature emerging. The first thing she noticed was how tall and skinny this new pony was. It was wearing a completely black suit, which was a huge contrast to it's white skin that was similair to the creature that got the Doctor. Still, something was off about it, besides the white skin and how freakishly tall it was. Continuing to scan upwards, she saw it's head. It had absolutely no mane at all, but the most horrifying thing about it was that it had no face. There was no trace of eyes or a nose, ears or a mouth. Twilight stood horrified, her back to the door of the TARDIE, paralyzed with fear.
“Who are you?” Twilight whispered through tears. “What are you...” she said, this time more quietly and to herself. This new creature seemed to hear her, and it just stood there, looking at her. Black tentacles flared out of it's back as Twilight started coughing violently, even spitting up her own blood. Fear filled the purple pony as she suddenly doubled over in a coughing fit, snapping her out of her trance. Turning around, ran out the door of the TARDIE, never looking back to the horrible place where They first came to Ponyville. She just ran. She didn't know where she was running too, she just knew she had to get away from there. After running for what seemed like all eternity, Twilight saw the lights of Ponyville. It must have been somewhere around night time. Approaching the quiet town, she finally slowed down. She wasn't used to this kind of running, as she hasn't ran since last year's Running of the Leaves. She finally saw the door of her library home. Pushing the door in without any magic, she closed it behind her and saw that Rainbow Dash and Spike were talking in the middle of her library home.
“Geez, 'Twi, where've you been all day?” asked Spike as he got up. “You've been gone since, like, eleven this afternoon! And what happened to you? Looked like you just saw a ghost.”
“Spike...” weakly replied Twilight. “T-tea...please.” she continued in the same strained voice.
“Yes, ma'am!” said the purple baby dragon, snapping a salute and marching into the kitchen to fix her favorite tea.
Rainbow Dash just hovered silently, waiting until Spike was in the kitchen and out of hearing range to talk to Twilight. “Hey, 'Twi.” said the prismatic maned pony quietly.
“Rainbow...” said Twilight in the same weak voice. “Did you...did you get... m-my message?” she inquired, growing more and more tired.
“Yeah...what was that about?” answered Rainbow after a short while. “I'm sorry I couldn't be there.” she said. “I was sleeping at the time an' I've been having these weird dreams and I thought it was another one. I keep hearing this voice telling me to do horrible things and... I just don't know. I didn't know...”
“It's fine, Rainbow.” reassured Twilight, growing a bit of strength back for a moment, then collapsing on the floor.
“Twilight! Are you all right? Maybe you should go see nurse Redheart...” said Rainbow as she helped her friend up.
“It's fine! I'm fine.” quickly replied Twilight. “I just need to sleep, that's all.” she said.
“Are you sure? I could, uh, stay over for tonight and help.” offered Rainbow Dash.
“It's fine, Rainbow. You've got work tomorrow, anyways.” she replied to Rainbow.
“I could take the day off tomorrow! And I'm sure they'd understand if--”
“It's fine, Rainbow.” cut off Twilight.
“But--!”
“I'm absolutely fine. Besides, I feel better already. And I've also got studying to do, so...” cut off Twilight again, not wanting to argue anymore.
“Okay...” said Rainbow in a defeated tone. “But if you need any of us, Twilight, we're here for ya. Cya tomorrow, I guess.” she said as she walked to the front door.
As Rainbow walked out of the door, Spike walked into the room with a tray, two teacups and a pot. “Where'd Rainbow go, 'Twi?” he asked, setting down the tea tray on a nearby table.
“She went home.” Twilight replied.
“Well, you sound better. I guess talkin' to her helped a bit, huh?” said Spike as he poured a cup of tea for Twilight. Handing it to her, he announced he was going to go to bed and left Twilight by herself in the library. Looking around the big library and drinking her tea thoughtfully, Twilight began to plan on her how she would take care of this. She didn't want to research it, but her curiosity was getting the better of her. Finishing her tea, she decided to deal with it when morning came and went to bed.
That night was the first in many long nights to come.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
44 6f 20 49 20 68 61 76 65
|
Eggroll
|
995
| 2 |
Angel,Derpy Hooves,Rainbow Dash,Twilight Sparkle,Winona,Zecora,Alternate Universe,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Vae Victis
|
When Twilight encounters a strange stallion, a chain of events sets off throughout ponyville.
|
incomplete
| -1 | -1 |
<p>An encounter with a spiky haired, brown coated stallion brings in a dark creature from another world, leaving Twilight to figure out the mystery of the tall, suited pony.</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-23T22:53:15+00:00
|
2011-09-23T22:53:15+00:00
| 986 |
▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ஜ۩۞۩ஜ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
Messages
▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ஜ۩۞۩ஜ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
“Huh? Where am I...” thought a confused Twilight Sparkle, waking up to see herself surrounded by trees. Slowly getting up from the leafy forest floor, she looked around in all directions to see nothing but trees. Not knowing what to do, she started walking in one direction.“I must be in the Everfree! But...I don't recognize this part.” She kept walking forward. Not getting anywhere, she looked up to the night sky to see it was getting dark. “Hello?!” she cried out in exasperation. “Is anyone out there? Hello!” Stumbling around the forest, hoping to find any form of life, she suddenly stopped. The air felt colder and she could feel another presence watching her. Looking around, she thought she caught something out of the corner of her left eye. Turning around and bracing herself in a battle stance, she saw nothing but trees. Resuming her previous direction, but still keeping an eye on her left, she eventually turned her head and saw a very tall pony. Twilight stopped again. This was the last creature from the portal. Twilight suddenly felt very sick and started to cough. She tried to get away, but passed out on the floor.
“Twilight?” called out a concerned voice. “Twilight!” the voice called out again. This voice continued to call out for some time, before starting to shake her awake. Slowly opening her eyes, Twilight quickly shut them to keep out the harsh light that was above her. Opening her eyes again, she saw a purple dragon standing at the foot of her bed looking up at her.
“You were coughing in your sleep, 'Twi.” said the purple dragon.
“Who...?” asked Twilight, still remembering the dream.
“It's me, Spike! Are you all right? Maybe you should go see a doctor.” he said as he went to get a scroll.
“No! It's fine. It's fine...” hastily replied Twilight.”What time is it?”
“It's already noon, and I'm starving.” answered Spike while cracking open a rock. “Mm, sapphires!” he said, chomping down on the blue gems.
“Well, I'm going to go visit Zecora and ask her advice on some things.” said Twilight. Grabbing her saddlebags and filling them with papers, she headed out the door and towards the Everfree Forrest.
She knew full well that she could teleport to the edge of the Everfree and cut the two hour walk in half, but she needed this time to think about her late encounters. Pulling out a piece of paper, she began to write while walking, levitating the piece of paper in front of her while writing with the inked feather.
Day 1
A strange and horrible being from another dimension, presumably a parallel dimension, has entered through a portal that was created by the Doctor, a brown colt who asked me to help him to further the studies of parallel dimension travel. We did make contact thanks to my knowledge of teleportation and his “amplifier”, but this creature, along with two others still came through. The first creature to come out of the portal was a pony with a mask that momentarily incapacitated me, skewing my vision (via tackle). I couldn't get a clear view of the second or third creature, the former acting beast-like, while the latter I can't remember besides he was very tall for a pony.
Last night, I had a dream about the last creature. I was in the Everfree during the night time. The part of the Everfree Forest I'm not sure of. The trees were more spaced out and I could see the sky from below. I remember wandering around a bit, then feeling something wrong. The air grew colder and I felt eyes on me. I turned to my left and saw nothing but trees. However, when I turned back in the direction I was going, I saw the creature standing there, watching me. I started coughing and then woke up.
At this point, Twilight Sparkle could see the Everfree Forest. Putting her notes and writing supplies back in her saddlebags, she galloped the rest of the way to the edge of the Everfree, and started walking around it, looking for the familiar path that lead to Zecora's house. However, when she got there, she noticed something...off. Looking closely, she noticed that some trees had circles with crosses through them. “These new markings looked freshly carved by the look of them.” noted Twilight, again producing the note paper and writing a small addition to the previous notes. Something was still off about these symbols. This little nagging feeling at the back of her mind. She knew she saw these before, but couldn't put a hoof on it. Still trying to remember where she saw these symbols, she began the half hour walk to Zecora's hut in the Everfree. Lost in thought, she heard a snap behind her that jostled her out of her thoughts. She turned pale white and slowly turned around. Twilight wanted to turn around and make a run for it, but she just couldn't move. Another snapping of twigs, this time to her right. She again turned towards the source of the sounds. She couldn't see anything or anyone in the trees. Walking off the path, she saw a piece of paper taped to a tree.
“Bit of an odd place for a note.” Twilight said out loud.
Slowly walking towards it, she used her magic to take down the strange note and saw the same slashed circle on the front of the paper in black ink. Turning it over, there was another symbol, this time two eyes crossing over each other forming a four pointed star. On each corner of the note was one word in small print. Reading from the upper-left to bottom-right, a message was formed.
“We are always watching.” she read.
Looking at the note closer, there seemed to be a red stain on the lower-right corner. Analyzing the note for any further evidence, she didn't notice a pony in the trees far behind her, watching her every movement with cold, emotionless eyes.
“I don't know, it's just that I hear these horrible voices telling me to do things to my best friends. They're like family to me! They mean so much to me, but I want to do these things to them...”
Silence follows.
“Yeah, your right. Thanks!” said a satisfied cyan pony as she got out of her chair and headed off to work, like every morning for about a week.
The random note appearing out of thin air disturbed Twilight quite deeply. That wasn't the main reason, though. It was what's on the note. A combination of both symbols and the message. The first symbol seemed to be popping up everywhere in the Everfree. Looking into the farthest depths of her mind, she tried to remember where or when she first encountered the now recurring sign. Looking back at her notes for any help, she suddenly remembered where she first saw it.
“The pony in the mask...” she muttered to herself. His cutie mark was a red version of this symbol. Wandering along the path in the dark forest, she wondered how much longer until she got to Zecora's house, when it suddenly loomed into view. Her hut was still creepy as usual, but it seemed abandoned. Galloping up to a window, Twilight peered inside and saw nothing.
“All this time for just a note?!” she shouted. She quieted down immediately, remembering she was still in the Everfree and there were other creatures. As she started walking towards the entrance of the forest, she remembered the Zecora spent most of her afternoons gathering herbs and other ingredients for her potions. Of course, that didn't help much because Twilight still didn't know where Zecora was. The Everfree Forest was big, and Zecora could be anywhere. Walking back towards Zecora's hut, she noticed another note on her door, similair to the one before.
“Oh, no...” said Twilight as she took the note down. This time the note was a perfect square, unlike the torn up note she took down earlier. On the front was a symbol, this time the eye within a star symbol. There were no messages, but there was a picture on the back of the note. The Everfree was dark this deep in the forest, so Twilight had to cast a small illumination spell to see. Closing her eyes and concentrating on the light, a small purple glow shimmered at the tip of her horn.
“There we go! Now let's see what this picture is abou--”
Twilight stopped mid-sentence, mouth gaping wide. On the picture were two ponies, a blue stallion with a white mare. Their faces were crossed out, and the crossed circle symbol was over their cutie marks, but Twilight Sparkle could recognize the couple anywhere.
“Mom? Dad?” she said. Below the picture were two simple words: Found you. The very sight of the defaced picture made her sick. Somepony was messing with her, and she was going to find out who. The symbols should could handle, but now...this? The only possible person who left behind all these signs was the masked pony, and surely he couldn't have broken into her library home. Taking the photo and putting it in her saddlebags, Twilight continued searching, this time not so much for the whereabouts of Zecora, but rather any other signs about the masked pony. Circling around the wooden hut, Twilight searched intently for any other hints or clues to the identity of the mystery pony. After her third time around the vicinity of Zecora's home, Twilight gave up searching for any clues. Sitting down with a sigh, she rested a bit, trying to make sense of all the messages. Setting the picture and note in front of her, Twilight tried to think of any meaning to the symbols. The only things she could conclude was that somepony was watching and following her every movement, and somepony has been sneaking around her library.
At the thought of a stranger lurking stealing and defiling her personal belongings, Twilight began to wonder what else that he or she wanted. Getting up from the ground, Twilight started the long walk back to her library home. Passing by one of Zecora's windows in the front, Twilight didn't notice a mask seemingly moving by itself, following her, watching.
______________________________________________________________________________
A strangely silent Rainbow Dash could be seen clearing the skies and bucking clouds, if anypony cared to look up at the cyan pegasus. She was still thinking about her talk with Him today. She's been having the talk every morning for the past week or so. Their daily chats made her mind clear and put her mind to rest. Still, she needed more answers. Clearing the last cloud and finishing her work for the day, Rainbow Dash wondered who could help her and give her the answers she needed, and only one pony came into mind. Taking a deep breath, she flew off towards a certain ponies treehouse home. Her mind occupied on the thoughts of Him, she didn't notice that Twilight's treehouse was in front of her. Suddenly looking up, Rainbow Dash quickly turned a little to the left, aiming for the window she crashed through before so many times. Bracing herself and closing her eyes, Rainbow Dash waited for the sound of falling books and herself dropping to the floor. However, the feeling never came. At least she didn't feel it. When the reckless pegasus opened up her eyes, she saw darkness.
“Ha! Didja see yourself? You flew like ten feet!” shouted a laughing voice from around Rainbow Dash.
“Huh? Who?” said Rainbow getting up. All she could see around her was pitch black darkness.
“Aww, forgotten about me already?” replied the voice.
Trying to remember where she heard the familiar voice, Rainbow Dash suddenly perked her head up with recollection. “Your the voice I talk to in the morning!”
“Atta girl! For someone who has her head in the clouds, your a bright one.” said the voice with a bit of glee.
“W-what do you want from me?”
“What do I want from you? I want to see if your ready for somethin'” answered the voice.
“Ready for what?” asked Rainbow Dash.
“You'll see, you'll see. I need to get a few others first. You ponies...your somethin' different, I'll give ya that.” said the mysterious voice before the blackness faded out.
“Wait!” shouted Rainbow. “When will I know? And how will I know it when I see it?” she shouted again in vain. The black darkness faded away to gray, then white.
______________________________________________________________________________
Walking on the worn dirt road back to Ponyville, Twilight thought about the strange messages again. She couldn't get them out of her head. It was like an itch, and the only way to scratch it was to find out how the masked pony knew so much about her. The only place she could think of finding him was somewhere in the Everfree forest, since that's where all the notes were located. Pondering over the logic of a hideout place in the forest, Twilight started to notice the sky getting darker. Twilight looked up and saw a giant black cloud of smoke rising over Ponyville. Panicking, Twilight kicked it into overdrive and galloped as fast as she could towards her home town, thinking that her library house could have caught on fire. After all, it was a giant tree.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Rainbow Dash didn't know exactly where she was. She was just drifting in a white, endless void. Not flying, but actually drifting in air. There was only silence. It was the first time she'd been calm and at rest since last month with her friends. “My friends...” Rainbow Dash thought to herself. “Where could they be? I'm sure Applejack and Rarity would love to relax for a while. And Twilight, too. She's always studying in that treehouse of hers.” she thought to herself. “Twilight's...treehouse?” she thought to herself again. Suddenly remembering what she was doing before the talk, Rainbow woke lying on a floor with books littered around her. When she sat up, she was surrounded by blackness again. This time, however, was entirely different. The blackness wasn't pitch black like before; it was more like when you stuck your head inside a cloud. Except it stung her eyes, making them water. Those weren't the only things either. The new blackness smelled like...smoke. Beginning to cough, she started flapping her wings, clearing away some of it with the breeze generated from her wings. Finding the open window, Rainbow looked outside and saw a fire near Twilight's house. As one of the pegasi chosen for clearing the skies, Rainbow Dash took off from inside the house, flying through the open window and into open air. Gliding on an air current above the rising smoke, she double checked that she wasn't high enough in the air to pull off a Sonic Rainboom. Folding both wings to the sides of her body, Rainbow Dash dived down towards the burning fire.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
79 6f 75 72 20 61 74 74 65 6e 74 69 6f 6e
|
Eggroll
|
995
| 3 |
Angel,Derpy Hooves,Rainbow Dash,Twilight Sparkle,Winona,Zecora,Alternate Universe,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Vae Victis
|
When Twilight encounters a strange stallion, a chain of events sets off throughout ponyville.
|
incomplete
| -1 | -1 |
<p>An encounter with a spiky haired, brown coated stallion brings in a dark creature from another world, leaving Twilight to figure out the mystery of the tall, suited pony.</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-10-08T15:06:05+00:00
|
2011-10-08T15:06:05+00:00
| 1,333 |
79 65 74 3f
A nice heart
And a white suit
And a baby blue sedan
.-. .- -... -... .. - / --- .-. / .... .- -... -... .. - .... .- -... -... .. - / --- .-. / .-. .- -... -... .. -
hElp
The wi do w
Der Groß ermane
Drowning
away from the trees
hellodoctorhellodoctorhellodoctor
canyouseethesigns
h(a)unted
iwanttobelieve
Dusk has found us.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
HA HA
YOU PONIES MAKE ME LAUGH SOMETIMES. I'VE DONE THIS MILLIONS OF TIMES WHERE I'VE COME FROM, AND EVEN THOSE WEAKLINGS HAD CANDIDATES. YOU PONIES? YOUR ALL SOFT. YOUR NOT PREPARED. YOU DON'T EVEN FIGHT. FINE WITH ME. TICK, TOCK, RABITS.
YOURS,
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Diving down towards the now rising flames, Rainbow Dash could feel the immense amount of heat rushing towards her face.
“That's it.” cooed a voice in the back of her head. “You know what to do. Your Rainbow Dash, Equestria's fastest flier.”
“That's right...” she thought to herself. “I am the fastest flier! I can do this!” she said to herself. As the wind and heat kept rushing towards her, she stuck out a single wing and let herself start spinning around and around in a circle. Spiraling downwards, she stuck out her other wing and, with one strong push, made a complete circle. Continuing the circle, the air picked up around her and a mini tornado formed.
“No!” cried out a familiar voice. It sounded terrified. “Rainbow Dash! Don't! Your only feeding the fire!” it cried out again.
“That voice...” the cyan pegasus thought to herself. “That's Twilight's voice.”
“No!” cried out the voice from before. “Don't listen to that goody two-hooves! She thinks she's so smart and clever, but you, Rainbow Dash. You know what your doing. She's never flown before! She doesn't know the thrill of flying! She has the knowledge, but not the experience, and experience is power! You have that power, Rainbow Dash. Do it. Save Ponyville from the fires.” continued the voice with it's honey coated lies.
“But... but she's right!” Rainbow Dash thought back. Caught in the tornado, all that Rainbow Dash could do was keep spinning around. The momentum of the circular motion would still keep her going anyways. She was trapped.
“Never mind what she said!” the voice snarled menacingly. “She's just jealous! She could never achieve what you ever will.”
“But Twilight--”
“But nothing! She's just stopping you from reaching your goal! Remember? The Wonderbolts! Your a smart pegasus. Think about it. Saving a town with your amazing flying skills is a surefire way to get on the crew.” cut in the voice.
This new reasoning was enough to push her over the thin line between her friend and what she wanted. Still, Rainbow Dash hesitated as she was just about to take control of the tornado, now at a standstill. Down below, the fires raged on and grew taller as a ragtag group of ponies started getting buckets of water to douse the flames.
“This isn't right.” Rainbow Dash thought. “I'm the element of loyalty! I've turned down the Shadowbolts and I can turn down this chance, too.” she thought. With grim determination, Rainbow Dash concentrated all of her willpower into stopping the tornado. Hoping that she was wrong about her being trapped in the tornado, she prepared herself for one mighty push of her wings to freedom from the strong winds. Taking in a deep breath, the cyan pegasus started to tense up her wings when everything went...purple.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Twilight Sparkle was standing still, mouth agape, staring at the rampant tornado. If somepony was looking with as much intent as Twilight Sparkle was, they would see what she was staring at: a small figure with wings spinning around inside the raging cyclone. However, all the citizens of Ponyville were preoccupied with other tasks, from holding back the flames to rescuing any trapped citizens. There was even a pegasi weather team trying to contain the tornado, with no avail. Twilight knew that with all the work everypony was doing, it would all be in vain unless she did something. Looking around, she saw earth ponies, pegasi, and unicorns trying to extinguish the flames, only to have them rise up again. “Okay...” started Twilight, mentally putting together a list. “First I've got to stop Rainbow Dash.”
Looking straight at the mini tornado her friend Rainbow Dash spun up, she closed her eyes and began trying to remember how to cast a containment spell. After a minute of thought, she recollected the spell procedure and promptly began the process. Digging her four hooves in the ground, she braced herself as she started to imagine the tornado being enveloped in purple. Closing her eyes and concentrating on the image even harder, she started to imagine the purple haze becoming more solid, finally forming bars to ensnare Rainbow Dash and her tornado. She could hear a few ponies around her shout out “look!”, but still she continued. Now, Twilight began to execute the second part of her plan. She read about a spell used to calm down raging winds, and what else is a tornado but wind whirling around in a circle? Resting for a quick second, Twilight took a deep breath in and began imagining a soft purple glow enveloping the tornado again, this time more cylindrical in shape. She “drew” it down with her magic, slowly bringing down the purple haze. With each inch she took down, the wind went away with it. About halfway through, a visible figure could be seen flung out of the tornado.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Rainbow Dash didn't know what was going on, just that she was being freed from the winds. She felt herself getting rejected and flying out. She saw the ground raising up to meet her, and she quickly popped out her wings to try to slow her decent a little. It helped, but only enough so that she didn't hurt herself. The way she saw it, she was only twenty feet up in the air, and the air brake from her wings made the fall a little slower. The ground was now rising up to meet her, as the cyan pegasus braced herself for impact. Closing her eyes, Rainbow Dash expected to feel the ground meet her, but instead felt wind beneath her wings. Opening her eyes slowly, she looked behind and saw that she was now gliding about 5 feet off the ground. It took her a few seconds to realize what was going on, but then her mind kicked into gear and she started to slowly drive herself downwards. She did a little back flip in midair, and then landed gracefully, striking a pose.
“Very impressive.” said a voice in the back of her head.
Rainbow had forgotten about the voice in her head. She needed serious help. Maybe she was going crazy, and only Twilight would be able to help. Looking around, she tried to find any sign of Ponyville only to find a giant pillar of black smoke in the distance. Gasping at the raw shock of the image, she started running and took off, flying as fast as her tired body could take her.
“Tch.” said the voice in her head again. This time, Rainbow didn't hear it. “Feeble minds are much easier to manage...” it murmured as it began to plan dark schemes.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Twilight Sparkle opened her eyes and looked all around her. Some had stopped and pointed at the tornado-free skies, while most others continued working. Pausing for a minute to rest from the medium level spell, she then breathed in deep and shouted out, “EVERYPONY LISTEN UP!” At this, everypony stopped to look with frightened and lost faces, hoping that she would know what to do. She did. “Now, this will only take a minute. I've taken care of the tornado, so this is what I need you all to do.” said Twilight as she had everyone's attention. As she explained her plan, the citizens of Ponyville started to execute the process. In an hour, the fires were put out and everypony was accounted for, except a few who lost their lives helping others.
The worn out purple unicorn looked around as people started to clean up and even began to rebuild some destroyed buildings. Looking at the school where the fire started, she saw a few unicorns putting out a few small fires with water buckets, while some pegasi flapped their wings to clear away the remaining smoke. Smiling to herself, she felt satisfied until her eyes happened upon something on the roof moving. Peering at the area closer, she saw a tall pony in a dark suit looking down on the school, which had strangely taken the least fire damage. Gasping, she frantically looked to see if anyone else could see it. The creature was on the other side of the roof, which was obscuring it's view from the pegasi trying to blow away the smoke on the other side.
“Twilight Sparkle?” said a gentle, yet firm voice. Jumping a bit, she turned around and saw the Mayor with a gray pegasus with bubbles for a cutie mark and yellow eyes, wearing a fire resistant uniform that the fireponies wore.
“Oh! Hello, mayor!” said Twilight after calming down.
“Twilight Sparkle, as Mayor of Ponyville, I would like to introduce you to the Head of the Fire Department, Ms. Ditzy Doo. We both would like to thank you for your contributions today with the tornado and bringing order out of chaos.”
“Oh!” replied Twilight, a little flustered. “It was no big problem, really.” she said, blushing a bit.
“I'm sure Ms. Doo would like to thank you too?” inquired the Mayor looking at her pegasus companion. But she didn't say anything. Instead, the blonde pegasus seemed to look past Twilight, and her eyes started going opposite directions.
“Um...is she okay?” asked Twilight.
“Oh, that's just Ditzy. Her eyes go cross-eyed when she gets agitated. Ditzy, is something wrong?” answered the mayor.
Twilight remembered that the school was behind her, and she turned around to see the tall, slender pony turn it's head from Twilight to Ditzy. It started at Ditzy and just stood there, silently. A moment after, the Pegasi team finally managed to clear away the last of the smoke. In one great flap of their wings, the smoke all blew away at once. When it went away, It was gone.
“What? On the roof of the school? I don't see anything.” said the mayor.
Ditzy Doo shook her head and blinked. Her eyes reverted to normal. “Oh, it's nothing.” she said. “And, like the mayor said, I do thank you deeply for the assistance. Now, if you'll excuse me...” Ditzy replied as she opened her wings and flied away.
“Thank you again, Twilight. We'll be holding a meeting tomorrow in the town square about this...incident. Go home. You deserve the rest.” the mayor said as she, too, went on her own way.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Voices.
“Did you do it?”
“What do you think?!”
“He's not going to be happy.”
“How the hell can you tell that!? He doesn't even have a damn face!”
“Calm down.”
“Don't tell me to calm down! It's not my fault that you picked this hellhole. There's no anger here! These stupid, bloody ponies and their princesses and friendship.”
“I have my reasons.”
“Well, you better be right.”
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Twilight Sparkle trotted her way back home, taking in the sights of a very, very different Ponyville. Lingering a bit, she couldn't keep thinking of the pile of burnt wood awaited her. Seeing a last hill, she gritted her teeth and slowly walked over it, head down. When she looked up, she saw it, still there, without a burn mark at all. A smile spread over her face as she looked over and around it, peering intently for any sign of damage, with absolutely none at all. Looking up towards the leafy branches, she saw the window where Rainbow Dash crashed into so many times, and saw it was open. And looking down on her was the slender pony.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
|
Chatelier
|
996
| 1 |
Applejack,Big Macintosh,Twilight Sparkle,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Apple Fritters
|
A sweet treat makes the way for a sweet moment.
|
complete
| 65 | 6 |
<p>A sweet treat makes the way for a sweet moment between Twilight Sparkle and Big Macintosh.</p><p>(This was crossposted from my Fanfiction.net account, and is being cross-posted to my Deviantart account as well.)</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-23T12:50:25+00:00
|
2011-09-23T12:50:25+00:00
| 6,683 |
The sun shone brightly on another day in Ponyville, where everyone was going about their business.
Pinkie Pie was bouncing about town, delivering invitations (and the occasional cupcake).
Rarity was working on another dress for a client, sewing on more jewels to make it (in her words) “utterly fabulous, darling!”
Fluttershy had taken it upon herself to help a family of squirrels move their stash of food from inside the tree on the right side of the road to the tree on the left side of the road.
Rainbow Dash was somewhere in the clouds, but with her lightning speed, no one could be really sure what she was doing and where she was doing it.
Applejack was setting up shop near Twilight Sparkle’s library, putting all the freshly-made apple treats on display. The sweet smell of the delicious wares of Sweet Apple Acres floated up and through the window to tickle Twilight’s nose.
The purple pony looked up from the book she was reading. Once she realized what she smelled, she quickly stood up and made a run for the door, using her magic to slip on her saddlebags.
“Howdy there, Twilight!” Applejack called out once she saw her friend trotting towards her store.
“Hi, Applejack!” Twilight greeted back. “Could I have some of those delicious apple fritters?”
“Sure thing, sugarcube. How many do ya want this time?” The orange pony grinned. Once she had set up shop near the library, Twilight had bought apple fritters from her every single day. The filly had certainly developed a taste for the sweet apple fritters from Sweet Apple Acres.
Twilight let out a nervous chuckle. “Two dozen?”
Applejack blinked, stopping right in the middle of wrapping one apple fritter. “What was that?”
“Uh… About two dozen?” Twilight gave her friend a nervous grin. “Y’know, I figured I always buy one a day from you. I figured maybe it would be more economical if I bought them from you in bulk. There’s also the fact that I’ve got a friend coming over for tea later today and I really wanted to show them some of what Ponyville has to offer,” she quickly said in one breath. “And I really like your apple fritters,” she added.
The orange pony laughed. “Why thank ya kindly, sugarcube,” she said with a smile. “We got ourselves a problem here, though.”
“What’s that, Applejack?”
“I didn’t bring two dozen apple fritters with me today,” she replied. “I’ve only got a handful, to tell ya the truth. Sorry ‘bout that, Twi,” she said, an apologetic look on her face.
“Oh,” Twilight said, her shoulders drooping slightly. “I was kinda hoping I could send my friend off with a basket of apple fritters. I’ll just buy however many you have right now, I guess,” she said, a half-hearted chuckle coming out of her mouth.
Applejack sighed and gave her friend a smile. “Tell ya what. Come by the farm after lunch. I’ll have a fresh batch of apple fritters cooked up just for you!”
“Thanks, Applejack!” Twilight said as she used her magic to float the apple fritters into her saddlebags, as well as drop the right number of coins into the bucket sitting on the apple cart. “I guess I’ll see you then!”
As she watched her friend return to her library, Applejack let out a chuckle. “Better let the big man on the farm know about our special order…”
x
“So can ya do it?” Applejack asked her older brother, who was currently decked in a frilly pink apron and in the middle of washing all the bowls, pots, pans, spoons and kitchen stuff that had been used this morning.
“Did you just say two dozen apple fritters?” Big Macintosh asked, giving his sister a confused look. The orange pony held in her laughter at the sight of her big and burly older brother wearing an apron usually reserved for her.
“Yep! Two dozen apple fritters!” she replied, nodding her head vigorously. “That’s what the customer ordered! I promised they could pick them up after lunch, and it’s almost lunch!” She cocked her head towards the clock on the wall. “You wouldn’t wanna let me break a promise, would ya?” She looked at him with those big green eyes, employing an expression that Big Mac had no way of fighting off.
“I guess I could make ‘em,” he finally told her and gave his sister a smile. “Lemme just give ya this apron,” he began, moving to slip the pink and frilly thing off.
“No!” Applejack nearly shouted, hiding a snicker. “It looks better on you anyway, big brother.”
Big Macintosh let out a sigh and chuckled. “Whatever you say, AJ.”
x
After mixing several batches of batter (and cleaning up a mess courtesy of the Cutie Mark Crusaders), the two dozen apple fritters that the customer ordered were all packaged and ready to go, sitting on the counter in the Apple family’s kitchen. Applejack had left with the Cutie Mark Crusaders and had left Big Mac to do most of the cooking, something that he didn’t actually mind doing.
He had been keen on learning how to cook, and had started off by helping his sister make apple pie. Eventually, he had found that he was actually quite good at making apple fritters, and that cooking was actually a good way of relaxing after a day of working in the field. Eventually, he had even started helping Applejack with making their apple treats to sell at Ponyville.
He was broken out of his thoughts by someone calling from the front door.
“Hello?”
He immediately recognized the voice of Twilight Sparkle and his eyes widened. He had always seen her when she visited Applejack on the farm, and remembered that one time she had helped them during Applebuck season. But he had never really spoken to her at length, as the quiet colt had never really worked up the nerve.
“Hello?” Twilight Sparkle repeated. “Applejack? Are you in here?” He heard her entering the house and quickly made his way to the doorway of the kitchen.
“H-Howdy,” he managed to stammer out. It was a step up from his usual “hi” to her, especially since looking at the pretty librarian filly had the effect of taking away his voice.
Twilight’s eyes widened at the sight of the bright red colt. “Oh! Big Macintosh!” she said, her voice suddenly a high-pitched squeak. “I didn’t expect to see you here,” she quickly said, a nervous chuckle punctuating the end of her statement. “Of course, why wouldn’t you be here? It’s your house after all. Then again, I always see you out in the fields. So I guess I didn’t… Really… Uhm, expect to see you here,” she finished, her awkward ramble quickly turning into an awkward whisper.
There was a few seconds of silence before Big Macintosh finally broke it with a cough. “Did ya come here to see Applejack?” he asked her, trying to stare at anything in the room but the purple unicorn.
“I came to… Uhm, pick up my order,” she quickly replied, also trying hard not to make eye contact.
“You ordered two dozen apple fritters?” he asked, more of a statement than a question, raising an eyebrow in slight surprise.
She nodded, her purple mane bouncing along with the action. “I… I’ve got a friend coming over later and I wanted to introduce them to some of the local fare,” she began. “I also wanted to make sure to send them off with some of the best apple fritters I’ve ever tasted…”
Big Mac felt a little surge of pride when he heard her words, and a smile appeared on his face. “Ya really think so?”
She nodded again. “Yes! I mean, they’re not too sweet. They’re not bland either. They go great with a hot cup of tea. I’ve bought one from your sister every single day ever since she moved her cart near my library about two weeks ago.”
The colt’s eyebrows lifted slightly. Two weeks ago was when he took over making apple fritters for their apple cart. Obviously, Twilight had taken a shine to them and hearing the filly he was interested in praise them made that little surge of pride grow exponentially.
“Well, they’re all ready for ya right here,” he told her and led her to the kitchen. A little plate of apple fritter ‘scraps’ was sitting on the counter, and he saw how her eyes lit up when she saw them. The colt could not help but blush at the sight.
“Thank you!” she told him and levitated the two packages of apple fritters into her saddlebags with a smile. “I’m sure they’ll be delicious, as always.” She put the right amount of coins on the counter and finally looked up at Big Mac. “So… I guess that’s all for me. I’ll see you around.”
Big Mac gestured towards the little plate holding the ‘scraps’ of apple fritters, which were just smaller fritters made with leftover ingredients. “D’ya want some?” he offered.
Twilight pondered his offer for a few seconds. “Well, maybe just one…” She levitated a small piece into her mouth and ate it. “Delicious!” she exclaimed, her eyes lighting up.
“Thank ya kindly, Twilight. I was afraid I’d put too much sugar in that batch,” he told her.
It took her a few more seconds to process what he had just said, a few seconds of her staring at him with a look of surprise. He chuckled.
“You make these?!” she practically shouted, her purple eyes wide.
Big Mac gave a shrug of his shoulders. “Well, my sister ain’t the only one in the family who can cook around here… And just ‘cause I’m a colt don’t mean I don’t cook,” he told her. Her look of disbelief quickly dissolved and she let out a laugh.
“Good point,” she replied, along with a nervous chuckle. There were a few seconds of awkward silence again, but this time they were broken by Twilight. “You make really delicious apple fritters, Big Macintosh,” she said and nudged him with her hoof.
“Glad you like ‘em, sugarcube,” he replied, using the nickname his sister always used. That seemed to have an odd effect on her, as she quickly looked away and brushed past him, determined to hide her quickly-reddening face from the colt.
She coughed. “Well, I should get back to the library… Gotta make sure it’s presentable for my guest later,” she told him.
“See ya around, Twilight Sparkle,” he said as they walked towards the front door.
“Bye, Big Macintosh!” she replied and walked down the path leading to Ponyville. “Oh!” She looked over her shoulder. “And, Big Mac?”
“Yeah?”
She giggled. “Cute apron.”
|
Ezn
|
997
| 1 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Long Distance
|
Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
|
complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-10-13T06:12:49+00:00
|
2012-10-13T06:12:49+00:00
| 5,189 |
Long Distance
by Ezn
Chapter One
"Rise and shine, everypony! You're listening to K-FILY on a bright, sunny day in the great city of Fill-ey-delphia! The weather teams have scheduled a downpour this evening, so enjoy that sun while you can, fillies and colts!"
White Noise rubbed his still-closed eyes with his hooves as he slowly lifted himself out of bed. He'd been up late the previous night, and it felt as if he hadn't had any sleep at all. He had half a mind to switch the alarm clock off and go back to sleep, but knew that wouldn't be the most responsible of actions. He had an example to set.
His horn glowed brightly as he put the kettle on for some coffee. One advantage to living in such a small apartment was that everything was in the telekinetic range of your average unicorn. Another advantage was the lack of walls – White Noise had some friends who loved to try lifting things on the opposite side of walls, but he himself liked to be able to see what he was doing.
Magic wasn't White's main thing after all – his speech-bubble-shaped cutie mark could attest to that. When it first appeared, his parents had been frightened he'd grow up to be a comic book artist, but White had known instantly that his talent was communication. Not saying things himself, that is, but figuring out easier ways for ponies to talk to each other under more circumstances.
White poured himself some coffee as he looked over the reports from his mail service – Dragonfire Delivery. He'd been too busy to read them the previous night, but that was fine, because business seemed to be doing wonderfully. Sales of bottled dragonfire were through the roof, and his dragons were coming to more towns and cities throughout Equestria by the day.
Finished with his drink, White Noise checked out his light blue mane and white coat in the mirror, decided they were presentable enough, and trotted out of his apartment, his mind already turning back to the problem that he'd wrestled with long into the previous night.
***
"Rise and shine, everypony! You're listening to K-FILY on a bright, sunny day in the great city of Fill-ey-delphia! The weather teams have scheduled a downpour this evening, so enjoy that sun while you can, fillies and colts!"
Sky Wave had already been up for ages when the mellifluous tones of K-FILY announcer Chats travelled through the air and into her radio. Celestia was in the middle of raising the sun, way off in Canterlot, and Sky sat on a cloud to watch as the great big fireball rose over the mountains and turned them from black to orange to green.
She had got up before the sun to practice her flying routine against a backdrop of the pitch black night. For the past hour, Sky Wave had silently glided, looped around and dove in her graceful, majestic way. Some pegasi were all about speed, but she loved the feeling of control she had when flying at slower speeds, and the way her flow carried her through the air from one move to another.
The sun was a little late this morning, which pleased Sky Wave. There had been a call to standardise the rising and setting of the sun, but Princess Celestia, in her wisdom, saw no reason not to vary the times for the good of her subjects. Cold winter days were shortened, and warm summer days lengthened. On a more specific note, the Grand Galloping Gala had happened the previous day, so Celestia gave her subjects a little time to sleep in.
Sky Wave picked up her radio in her mouth and opened her wings to fly off as the sun asserted its position in the sky. After performing her old routine at the Grand Galloping Fillydelphia Party Gala, she'd managed to work out a good chunk of a new routine this morning, and was pleased with her progress.
Some ponies thought Sky's practice of only performing routines once completely crazy, but she was committed to entertaining ponies in new and exciting ways every time she performed. The only constants between performances were her light pink coat and deep crimson mane – and she'd even toyed with the idea of dying them between performances.
Her cutie mark was a red ribbon with three loops of varying sizes. She often imagined it floating free on the wind, contorting and changing as it moved from one updraft to another, just as she did.
***
"Rise and shine, everypony! You're listening to K-FILY on a bright, sunny day in the great city of Fill-ey-delphia! The weather teams have scheduled a downpour this evening, so enjoy that sun while you can, fillies and colts!"
Sibwashie was jarred awake by the announcer pony's Filly accent. He'd been meaning to find something more in tune with his tastes to listen to, but he hadn't yet found the time. Being a Zebrican zebra in Fillydelphia, Equestria meant that he had a lot to learn.
Sibwashie switched off the radio as the announcer was in the middle of some speech about the previous night's Grand Galloping Gala. He preferred the radio's songs to its news – at least in song, ponies were polite enough to talk in rhymes.
"I miss my home more than I can bear
But I'm learning more here than over there," Sibwashie said to himself in a slow, deliberate tone.
Making up an Equestrian-language couplet every morning had been a great way to learn this strange new language. It was harder to find good rhymes than in his native tongue, but their pursuit had greatly expanded Sibwashie's vocabulary. He'd spent many nights poring over his prized Equestrian language rhyming dictionary.
Sibwashie reminded himself that rhyming was not an Equestrian custom. In Zebrica, only close friends and family would talk to each other in prose, so hearing it everywhere made Sibwashie feel a little strange. But he would have to get used to it, if he wanted to succeed in his lifelong dream.
Sibwashie wanted to be a Zebrican ambassador to Equestria. Throughout his life, he had borne witness to interracial misunderstandings and fear. Ponies and zebras would get off on the wrong hoof with each other because of their differing customs and ways of being polite. Each side would trumpet its own ways, and neither side would admit the other's merits.
Looking out the window, the zebra noticed that the sunrise was almost over. Taking that as a good reason to get a start on his day, Sibwashie slid into his brightly coloured saddlebags (adorned with intricate designs, drawn in traditional Zebrican style by a good friend of his) and headed out.
***
White Noise used telekinesis to flip the "Sorry, We're Closed" sign around so it said "Yay! We're Open" instead. This would be the third day of operation for Dragonfire Delivery's Fillydelphia outlet – the second one (out of two) in Equestria.
The store was small and sparsely furnished, but its simplicity and cleanliness gave it a pleasant style all the same. White Noise moved into place behind a wooden counter that extended across the shop's width, separating its customers from the shelves behind White Noise that carried his wares.
The shelves were adorned with cylindrical jars, each with a neat little label with the name of a place on it – "CANTERLOT", "MANEHATTAN", and "HOOFINGTON", to name the most popular ones. What was really eye-catching about the jars, though, was that each one flickered with green light – they all contained that special type of dragonfire used for sending messages across vast distances. Unlike real fire, the green flames burnt eternally without fuel, and would actually extinguish once given a sample of fuel, however small. White Noise had considered marketing them for their perpetual light-giving ability on top of their primary function, but nopony liked the sickly green hue they cast upon dark surroundings.
No, Dragonfire Delivery had stayed true to its original purpose, concocted by White Noise while studying at Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. The young company had done an admirable job of bringing the convenience and speed of the school's internal mail-by-dragonfire system to the common ponyfolk.
"Good morning, White," said a cheery voice. "How are you feeling today?"
"Not terrible, thanks," answered White Noise, "but you sound quite happy, Turquoise."
"I try to be happy every day, you know that!"
White Noise smiled. Although he hadn't known her for very long, he found his Fillydelphia-branch assistant to be a very likeable dragon. She reminded him of Smooth Scales, his oldest dragon friend – currently managing the Canterlot branch – only she was perhaps a little less mischievous and prank-happy than that devilish creature.
"You'll be happy to know that sales are rocketing up. Our new partnership with the Equestrian Post Office was a fantastic idea, if I do say so myself."
"Yes Turq, you did good with that idea. I'm glad we're reaching more ponies!" White Noise replied enthusiastically, the good news wiping some of the sleep out of his eyes. "Dragonfire Delivery is going to change Equestria, I promise you."
"I wouldn't be working here otherwise, sir. And speaking of the post office, here's our liaison now."
Turquoise's words were punctuated by the entrance of a pink pegasus wearing an EqPO baseball cap on her head and a set of tan saddlebags over her back. She smiled awkwardly through gritted teeth, which gripped a clipboard.
"Hello Sky," White Noise greeted. "How are you feeling today?"
"Tired, but still just a little psyched from my performance last night," Sky replied, placing her clipboard on the floor.
"Ah yes, congrats on that. You were great up there! I was only able to hang around a short while, but I liked what I saw."
"Thanks, I worked really hard on that performance," Sky Wave replied, blushing almost imperceptibly. "Anyway, I guess I'd better pick up the goods. I've got the post office's order written down on my clipboard."
White Noise levitated the clipboard up to his face and then busied himself levitating various jars off shelves (parallel levitation, now that was a skill worth knowing!). The post office would be taking almost all of his Canterlot dragonfire today, probably in anticipation of all the letters that would be sent to-and-fro regarding the previous night's Gala. White Noise hoped he would have enough left for his own, private clients.
The jars landed softly in Sky Wave's magically wide-open saddlebags, making them bulge quite significantly, and putting a visible amount of strain on the poor pegasus.
"That looks really heavy. Are you sure you shouldn't maybe make two trips?" Turq asked.
"Nah, I can handle it," Sky replied, smiling bravely. "A good performer must be graceful and strong. Also resilient. Besides, I've carried heavier weights – I'm a mailpony!"
White Noise chuckled softly at this statement. "I'm not sure where the trend of mailing other ponies large gifts like pianos came from, but I guess it must be good conditioning for you guys. I know it doesn't do my business any good."
"My back longs for the day ponies can deliver parcels by dragonfire!"
With that parting wish, Sky Wave flew off into the air, her ascent slowed by the weight of her saddlebags.
"I am glad we partnered with the postal service," Turquoise commented. "She's nice."
***
Later that day, White Noise and Turquoise were having a debate about the nutritional value of gemstones, when a tall, exotic shadow darkened their door. The conversation melted away as a large-framed zebra with a large and very traditional mohawk stepped into the establishment.
White's eyes widened as he caught sight of their latest customer. Clearing his throat, he launched into an enthusiastic greeting:
"«A warm welcome to you, traveller from a faraway land
Speak what you desire, and I will understand!»" White said in measured tones of his best Zebrican.
Sibwashie was taken aback at the unicorn's words. His rhyming was awkward and his words lacked the rhythm of a mother-tongue speaker, but he got his point across. Sibwashie hadn't heard any other ponies speak to him in his own language before.
"«Your warm accommodation finds welcome in my heart
Now, I pray, aid a traveller by using your life's art.»"
"Uuuuh….." said Turquoise.
"«Where would you like to send a letter? Limited choices are available, I'm afraid.»" White asked.
"«My correspondence is with a mare in Hoofington, a fine lady of the farming trade.»" Sibwashie continued, completing White's rhyme as was the Zebrican custom.
"'Hoofington', I understand. I'll go fetch a jar of that from the back," said Turquoise, shaking the bewilderment off her face.
"Unicorn sir, your empathy and interest I will repay
by speaking in your tongue, with you, today." Sibwashie said, switching to Equestrian.
"That's kind of a relief, I was running out of words!" White joked. "I'm White Noise, graduate of Princess Celestia's School For Gifted Unicorns, and owner of the Dragonfire Delivery company. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Sibwashie is the name I've borne since birth
And I am the only Sibwashie on this earth."
The zebra and pony shook hooves just as Turquoise returned with a small jar of green flame labelled "HOOFINGTON". The flame flickered and swam about behind the clear glass, entrancing Sibwashie with its unreal colour and movement.
"Say hi to Mr Sibwashie, Turquoise," White gently commanded. "This is my Fillydelphia store manager, Turquoise. She's a good worker, even if she doesn't know too many languages."
"Hello Mr Sibwashie, sir," Turquoise said, handing over the Hoofington jar.
Taking the jar in his mouth, Sibwashie gave Turquoise a silent nod, grateful that he was presently unable to speak – his Equestrian rhyming still needed work, and he didn't want to get stuck on "Turquoise".
"So, if I may ask," began White Noise, as Sibwashie deposited some bits on the counter in payment. "What brings you to Equestria? Zebrica's quite a way away from here."
After placing the jar of dragonfire in his left saddlebag, Sibwashie put a hoof to his chin, thinking for a moment before opening his mouth.
"The glyph upon my flank describes a very delicate mission
It compels me to prevent international peace attrition.
"Or, to put it in a fashion more clear-spoken and plain
Means my job is full of pony-zebra friendships to maintain.
"By travelling deep into pony country and living among you
I hope to understand, and discover what is true."
"So, basically, you're a diplomat?" White surmised.
"Ambassador is the term I would prefer
But, right now, I am neither.
"I am a young zebra, with so much to see and to learn
I must make myself worthy of the position I yearn."
"Well you seem like a pretty interesting guy nonetheless. You know… I've always been curious about life outside of Equestria, and it's about lunch time. Would you mind accompanying me? I'm sure I can tell you a fair bit about Equestria, from my perspective anyway. And if you're at all interested in Dragonfire Delivery…"
Sibwashie smiled and nodded. Perhaps this would be a beneficial relationship to cultivate, he thought. Communication technology IS an essential component of any relationship between nations.
***
"I can't believe I never thought of that before!" White Noise blurted out. "Distance doesn't matter to Dragonfire – there's absolutely no good reason why my business shouldn't have branches all over the world! Just think of the possibilities!"
"With such a grand, all-spanning system put in place
I would be able to keep in touch with other members of my race."
White Noise and Sibwashie were sitting at a booth in the former's favourite Fillydelphia deli. White had eaten a daisy sandwich; Sibwashie had ordered the soup of the day. Their meals finished, they were leisurely drinking cups of coffee – White knew that Turquoise could manage the shop on her own, and Sibwashie didn't have any pressing engagements for the rest of the day.
"You've given me a lot to think about, Mr Sibwashie," White said, very truthfully, resting his coffee mug on the table.
"I can say with joy that it's the same on my end
I am glad to have met you, my new pony friend."
Sibwashie felt that White Noise was maybe a little too absorbed in his job, but he had still managed to learn a few new things about Equestrian culture from the unicorn. More importantly, he'd gained an insight into the Equestrian viewpoint on Zebrica and zebras from someone who had studied the subject. Who would've thought they found traditional zebra ceremonial masks frightening?
***
Sky Wave swooped gracefully into one of the many wide entrances that lead straight from the sky into an upper floor of the Fillydelphia post office. She trotted up to her supervisor's desk, twisting and turning as she went to avoid colliding with any of the bustling mailponies scurrying around her.
"Got today's dragonfire for you, boss," Sky said cheerfully.
"Thank you," came the reply, spoken in a voice that was unfamiliar to Sky Wave. "I have something for you as well."
Sky did a double-take at the mare in front of her. She was wearing a uniform identical to Sky's supervisor's one, but a few sizes smaller, and obviously cut for a mare rather than a stallion. The light red mare who looked to be Sky's new supervisor also had a severity to her gaze, and a very neatly styled mane – a far cry from the shaggy, unshaven Stamp she had grown used to.
"What happened to Stamp?" Sky asked, trying to use as polite a tone as possible.
"He moved on. This department is currently undergoing a large-scale restructuring," retorted the strange new supervisor, pushing a brown envelope across her desk towards Sky.
Sky took the envelope in her mouth, hearing a rustle of bits as she did so. It was the beginning of the second week of that month, and Sky was fairly certain that payday was not on the agenda of "stuff to restructure"... but maybe it was a special bonus!
"Shank yew ma'am, but today'sh shnot payday."
"And that's not your wage. It's your severance package."
Sky Wave's eyes widened in horror, and the envelope of bits clattered to the floor as her mouth did the same. She was being fired?! Had she done something wrong? Delivered letters to the wrong addresses? Broken the contents of a package? Dropped a piano on somepony's head?
"The Equestrian Post Office and I feel you would be better suited to a career more in-line with your natural strengths," the red mare said. "New employee policy disallows us from hiring anypony without a mail-related cutie mark, so I'm afraid we have to let you go."
Sky Wave opened her mouth to protest, but thought better of it. This new supervisor didn't strike her as the compassionate type.
***
Sibwashie and White Noise walked along one of Fillydelphia's many concrete pavements, watching the carriages go by as they made idle conversation.
"...and that's why Princess Luna has been missing for the last thousand years," finished White. "I heard her return was a public relations nightmare – took my civil servant friends in Canterlot weeks of sleepless nights to smooth over everypony's confusion and anger."
"But on a more personal note," White said, switching topics after Sibwashie's nod of understanding, "all this talk about the Princesses has reminded me of a problem I've been puzzling over for a good few nights."
White closed his eyes for a moment as he composed his thoughts.
"A few weeks into my first term at Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns," he began, "my class had a visit from the Princess herself…"
«-oOo-»
A young White Noise sat in the middle row of his General Magic class, staring down at his hooves. He was wondering why he of all ponies had been accepted into such a prestigious academy, and how long it would be before the school figured out that they'd made a mistake and kicked him out.
During his short time at the school, he'd met, seen and heard about so many ponies with magical skills far beyond anything he could claim to have. Sure, his earth pony friends back home had been impressed by his levitations, light-tricks and magical funny voices (great for pranks!), but the ponies here were ridiculously talented.
There was Ivy, the dark green filly who could make flowers grow and dance in front of her! And Steady Stand, the big red unicorn who knew a spell that made walls and carriages practically unbreakable! There were even some older unicorns working on inter-dimensional teleportation, whatever that was.
And of course there was Twilight Sparkle, Princess Celestia's personal student, as of the beginning of the year. White Noise hadn't met her, but he'd heard all kinds of stories about her entrance exam. He wasn't sure which ones were true, but he'd seen the giant hole in the exam room's ceiling.
What all these ponies had in common, and what made White Noise feel out of place, was that they had their cutie marks. White felt at times that he'd give his front hooves for a vine, or a wave crashing against a dyke, or even something lame like a hammer on his flank. How was he supposed to be a "gifted unicorn" if he didn't even know who he was?
White was distracted from his thoughts by the sound of an old mare clearing her throat. The class was starting.
"We have a very special guest teacher for you today, fillies and colts," said Chalkboard, the class's dusty grey teacher. "Please stand for her Majesty, Princess Celestia."
Gasps and squeals of excitement filled the air as the hundred-and-something little ponies in the class rose to their hooves, their eyes widening as the Princess stepped into room.
The Princess, regal as always, slowly stepped across the length of the small classroom, smiling at the low-bowing teacher-pony before her. Her mane blew out in front of her face, despite the lack of wind, and the Princess seemed to radiate a magical aura all about her tall, elegant frame.
"Good morning, my faithful students," she said, giving her voice a magical boost that made it echo softly around the room. "I trust you have enjoyed your first few weeks at my school. You have learnt a lot under the guidance of Ms Chalkboard, but you still have much, much more to discover about magic... and about yourselves."
White sat up at this.
"You are all young ponies, and many of you don't know what your special talents are. Even those lucky ponies who have their cutie marks already may still be a little confused about their lives and what their marks really mean."
Princess Celestia paused for a moment, a smile crossing her muzzle.
"Not everypony gets something straightforward like a sun cutie mark that means they should go out and raise the sun every morning."
It was hard to tell if the Princess was making a joke, or whether or not she expected the class to laugh at it, so a few polite giggles rose up from the class before being strangled by awkwardness. White Noise smiled softly.
"Rest assured that you are all among the most magically adept unicorns in all of Equestria," the Princess continued, slowly gazing around the room. "Each one of you has amazing potential in one or more fields of magic, and this General Magic class is where you can find out what those fields are."
Just as Princess Celestia was pausing to let the class think about her words, a scroll materialised in front of her in a puff of smoke. Catching it with her levitation, the Princess set it down on the teacher's desk and continued speaking.
"That was an example of an ambient spell, my little ponies. Can anypony tell me what an ambient spell is? Yes, you in the front row."
"An ambient spell is a spell that does something constantly, Princess Celestia," came the front-row pony's matter-of-fact tone.
"Very good, my faithful student. My mail-delivery spell constantly looks for dragonfire letters addressed to me, and when it finds one, it delivers it directly to me."
This was new information to White. Like all the other ponies in his class, he'd been briefed on the school's dragonfire communication system, but he had been under the impression that dragons could only deliver letters to each other.
"Although the system sounds simple," the Princess continued, "it actually takes a lot of magic to maintain – that is the most important thing to remember about ambient magic. At the moment, I am the only pony with enough magic to use it."
«-oOo-»
"…with enough magic to use it," White said, his story coming to a close. "It was on that day that I discovered my fascination with communication. My cutie mark came later on – that's a whole other story – but the point of the story is that last thing the Princess said."
White Noise let out a sigh, and Sibwashie noticed the lines beneath his eye for the first time. It looked like White hadn't been getting enough sleep.
"The Princess said that nopony could cast that spell but her. And from what my research shows, she's absolutely right. The spell requires insane amounts of magic, and its ambient nature doesn't help matters. But I still feel like I have to figure out some way of using it. A spell like that would revolutionize Dragonfire Delivery – just think of all the places ponies' messages could reach!"
At this point, White's eyes had glazed over with excitement, and his grin stretched so far across his face that Sibwashie feared he'd hurt himself.
"I guess it's more than that, though," White continued, coming back down to earth. "If I don't have a way of casting that spell and making practical use of it, then what does that say about my understanding of dragonfire? I mean, the fire's literally the fuel that my business runs on, and sometimes I just get the feeling that I have no idea what I'm doing."
Sibwashie could think of a straightforward solution to his new friends' dilemma, one that he would enact were he in the same position.
"When seeking to understand problems like this, the only recourse
Is to begin your search by finding the source.
"Dragonfire is breathed by dragons, you know?
Perhaps you should see what they have to show."
"Well, yes, but I'm just not –"
White Noise's eyes widened as an idea dawned on him. It was probably a bit of a stretch, and hardly an appropriate thing to ask of somepony (somezebra?) he'd met maybe an hour before, but at that moment White was overcome with a sense of destiny.
"Sibwashie, you're a diplomat-in-training, right?" he asked tentatively. "Isn't Dragonia awfully close to Zebrica? Have you been there before? Would you go there again?"
Sibwashie blinked. This was quite a bit to take in. He'd been to the outskirts of Dragonia a few times, but it wasn't a place he'd lavished much attention on. Dragons, for the most part, were solitary creatures who liked nothing more than to be left alone. The ones in Dragonia especially – their incredibly long lifespans meant that on the rare occasion they did make friends with others, the others in question would be other dragons. They viewed the zebra population with quiet amusement, watching them live out their entire lives in the time it took a dragon to take a nap.
Nonetheless, White Noise had made an interesting offer. It would merit some serious contemplation.
"Hey, what's wrong?"
Sibwashie noticed that White Noise had been busy talking to a pegasus mare while he'd been lost in thought. The light pink mare's head was drooped, and she looked rather down on her luck.
"I just got fired," she said in response to White's question. "The powers-that-be decided my cutie mark wasn't 'appropriate for a mail-carrier'."
"That's pretty rough," said White. "But you've still got your performances, right? Don't those bring in a fair amount of money?"
Sky sighed. "Sadly not. If it did, I'd not have taken that post office job. My gigs are just too irregular – my specific flight style isn't as breath-taking or daring as that of, say, the Wonderbolts, and even though I'm okay with that, and my fans are okay with that, it just means that I'm not the kind of performer most ponies want at their events."
"Is there anything I can do to help you?"
"Know of any other jobs I can get?"
For the second time in less than five minutes, White's eyes widened at his own brilliance, and he felt that strange sense of destiny. Again, it was a bit of a stretch, but…
***
"…and that's how it'll work, if you guys are sure you want to do this," White Noise finished, taking a deep breath. "Sibwashie, you'll use your local knowledge and people-skills to get us to some dragons who can help me with my magic studies, and Sky, you'll be our eye in the sky while we're hoofin' it to Dragonia. Both of you will be paid handsomely – Dragonfire Delivery is doing very well at the moment, and a trip like this would be the perfect opportunity to expand even further."
The pony and zebra nodded in agreement. For Sibwashie this would be a chance to see more of Equestria, and visit his home again; White Noise had promised they'd make a stop in Zebrica, seeing as they'd probably end up going through it anyway. For Sky Wave it would be a way to actually have something to do over the post-Gala event drought. White's mention of payment had a fair bit to do with their agreement as well.
"So we'll meet up at the edge of town tomorrow?" Sky asked.
"The edge that faces Hoofington, to be precise. We'll be travelling along the E7 for most of the way," White replied matter-of-factly. "I'm glad you guys don't have a lot of stuff you need to do before we make this trip, because I'd hit that road right now if I could."
"I will send some letters and give my landlady notice of my leave
Then I just have to pack – that's all – hard to believe…" replied Sibwashie.
"I'm a leaf on the wind, White," said Sky Wave dramatically. "Wherever destiny takes me, that's where I go."
***
"So you're sure you'll be fine to manage the shop on your own?" White Noise asked Turquoise the next day.
"Don't patronise me, boss," she replied cattily. "If I wasn't able to do something as basic as that you wouldn't have hired me. It's not like you were going to stay at the Fillydelphia branch forever in any case. No offense, but you're a Canterlot pony, through and through."
"None taken," replied White, wistfully thinking of Canterlot's majestic towers, pathways and bridges. "It's too bad we're not going in that direction."
"Are you sure you know the way, White?"
White Noise levitated a map out of his right saddlebag to assuage his dragon shop-assistant's fears. A thick dotted line marked a path along the main roads from Fillydelphia all the way to Port Anchor, where a boat would take them across the sea to Zebrica.
"We'll be heading through Hoofington, Ponyville and a few other places. The Hoofington dragon I've hired will be glad to help open up a branch over there – he says the Post Office is far too noisy a working area for his liking."
"Sounds like you've got it all figured out quite nicely, boss," Turquoise said, raising an eyebrow.
"They don't give just anypony a degree in Communications Technology, Turq," White replied snidely. "Anyway, I'd better get going. Take care."
"Good-bye Mr Bossman," Turquoise replied as White levitated the shop's door open and stepped out.
The white unicorn hurried along the road to the edge of town, where he'd arranged to meet his travelling companions. He was a little nervous about going on such a long journey with a pony and zebra he didn't know terribly well, but something told him it would all work out fine. Who knows? he thought. We could even become friends.
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Ezn
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997
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Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-10-14T07:44:01+00:00
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2012-10-14T07:44:01+00:00
| 2,542 |
Chapter Two
The sun hovered a short distance above the lonely dirt road, making the trees that rose up on its eastern side cast long shadows over its surface. The morning atmosphere was fuzzy with the light mist that arose from the grass beneath the trees.
Birds sang, leaves rustled in the gentle breeze, and the world was otherwise silent. Then came the soft padding of hooves – not a so much a disruption of the silence as a carefully-measured, respectful step around it.
The two ponies and zebra had not been walking for very long, but they felt that they were already quite far removed from the hustle and bustle of their city lives. Fillydelphia was no Manehattan, but the contrast between it and their current surroundings was jarring nonetheless.
A rabbit skipped across the path and disappeared into the underbrush – a rare sight even in rural Equestria, as most animals were almost completely helpless outside of domestic situations. Sibwashie smiled at the sight of the wild rodent, thinking back to the lions and cheetahs that roamed the plains around the village where he was born.
"It's beautiful, isn't it?" whispered Sky Wave.
Her companions nodded in agreement, unwilling to further harm the tranquillity of their surroundings with even the softest words.
***
The journey continued in this fashion for a time, until White Noise finally spoke: "If you wouldn't mind, Sky, I think now'd be a good time to fly up and see if there's anything up ahead that we should be aware of. A fallen tree, or a broken bridge, or maybe a fork in the road: something like that."
"On it," Sky replied briskly, rising into the air before the words had fully left her mouth.
With a few soft flaps of her slender wings, Sky rose up above the tree to survey the path ahead. It twisted and turned in places, but as far as she could tell there were no upcoming forks, broken bridges or trees obstructing any part of it. Raising a hoof above her eyes to block out the sun's glare, she saw Hoofington's pretty wooden houses lying on the horizon.
Sky flapped her wings once more and rose several feet higher. The whole of Hoofington now spread out at the edge of her vision, and turning east for a moment, she could see Manehattan's majestic skyscrapers of steel and concrete rising up to touch the sun. It's a shame we're not heading in that direction, she thought. I've always wanted to see that city at night, all lit up like it is on the postcards.
With a sigh, Sky bade farewell to Manehattan's towers and swooped down to rejoin her earth-bound companions. She gracefully folded in her wings as her hooves touched the dirt and brought her trotting into step with the pace of her companions.
"The way's all-clear from here to Hoofington, guys," she said. "And Hoofington's not too terribly far away either – if we speed this trip up with a nice gallop, I'm sure we can get there within a few hours."
"Guess I could use the exercise," White Noise said nervously as he noticed Sibwashie nod eagerly at Sky's suggestion.
"Great!" Sky exclaimed. "On your marks... getsetgo!"
At that, all three ponies broke into a gallop. Sky's nimble legs carried her light frame swiftly along the path, and Sibwashie's thick and powerful ones did an admirable job of speeding his large body along at a relatively similar pace. White lagged slightly behind the others, hoping that the few times he'd been jogging since he got to Fillydelphia would pay off and help him to keep up with his companions.
***
They didn't.
"That was good and invigorating run
I cannot recall when last I had such fun," smiled Sibwashie.
"You did pretty well, boss," Sky Wave said to the panting unicorn that lay sprawled on the path just behind her. "Most unicorns I know probably couldn't gallop half that distance."
It was hard to tell through his heavy breathing, but Sky thought she saw White mouth the word "thanks".
"We're pretty close to Hoofington now," Sky said. "It wouldn't be a bad time to take a short break for lunch."
With that, Sky reached into her saddlebag and brought out some daisy and daffodil sandwiches she had packed for the journey. They were not as artfully made as the ones at White's favourite Fillydelphia deli, but right at that moment they may as well have been, given how appetising they appeared to his hungry eyes.
"Let's dig in," Sky said cheerfully, shucking her saddlebags to one side and slumping down on the grass. "I brought enough for everypony – and zebra!"
"Thank you for your thought, but I'm afraid I must decline
Your flowers disagree with me, and I find the grass quite fine," Sibwashie apologized politely, bending his head down to the grass and taking a bite out of it.
"My father got me to eat grass on a camping trip once," said White, having recovered his breath somewhat. "I can't say it agreed with me."
"It's quite nice once you get used to it, White," Sky replied. "In fact, I think I'll do some grazing for dessert."
With no further words, the ponies and zebra started eating their respective lunches. Sky Wave and White Noise each had three sandwiches (two daisy and one daffodil and pansy), and Sibwashie had enough grass to fill up his stomach. Sky joined him in grazing once she'd finished her sandwiches and White gingerly bit into a single blade of grass and turned quite green.
"I wonder if there's any signal out here," said Sky Wave, retrieving her portable radio from one of her saddlebags. "Oh, the battery's dead. White Noise?"
White Noise motioned with a hoof for Sky to place the radio in front of him. Closing his eyes, he lit up his horn and focused on the radio, sending his magic between the device's vents until it glowed even brighter than his horn.
The radio-powering spell was a slight variation of standard unicorn telekinesis, simple enough to be cast by any unicorn. The tricky part came in severing the portion of magic powering the device from one's own magic supply. A student of Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns had no trouble doing this (severing was the second thing they were taught in General Magic), but some younger and less magically-inclined unicorns would wear themselves out powering a radio for extended periods of time.
Sky Wave's radio came to life with a flare of static.
"Guess we're out of range of K-FILY," she said. "I mainly listen to them for the early morning music anyway."
White Noise turned the dial on the radio to its second channel. The static persisted. He went to the third channel. Still only static could be heard. The fourth and fifth channels yielded similar results, and then White had to turn back to the first channel because he had run out of options.
"So Hoofington doesn't have any radio stations," he concluded. "It makes sense. This radio thing is a pretty new technology, after all. Canterlot just got its first station the other month, and I don't know of anywhere other than Manehattan that actually uses all the channels."
"Every village in Zebrica has a radio station
Dedicated to relaying important information
"And it's largely thanks to the unicorns of this magical land
I'm surprised your system isn't more grand," Sibwashie said slowly.
"As am I, Sib," White Noise responded. "But I guess it's an issue of familiarity. Sure, we gave you guys the magic to really get your radio system into widespread use, but it's your invention. You've been using radios since the days you had to squeeze magic out of Poison Joke to power them, so you're just more accustomed to the idea of listening to disembodied voices all the time."
Just then, the three found their ears filled with the sound of trumpets, tubas and clarinets, belting out a stirring patriotic anthem that none of them could readily identify. The sound seemed to be getting louder.
"I don't think that's coming from my radio," Sky smirked.
And indeed it was not. In a few short moments, the source of the noise turned a bend in the road and stepped into view. It was a marching band.
The band was outfitted in cloaks, saddles and hats of dark purple and black, with a few patches of red here and there to lend the outfits some assertiveness. They marched stiffly, bearing serious expressions on their faces as they blew into their instruments. Attached to some of their saddles were large purple banners with the letters "NLR" written on them in bold black letters.
The dark ensemble was led by a proud-looking grey unicorn wearing a flowing black cape. Her striking red eyes flashed with acknowledgement as she saw White, Sky and Sibwashie, and she held out her left foreleg to signal the band to stop.
The instruments fell silent the moment the grey mare's leg left the ground, and the band stopped dead in their tracks. They stared at the three ponies before them without changing their serious expressions for a split second.
"Warmest greetings, travellers!" exclaimed the grey mare, her face breaking into a pleasant grin. "I am Quickblink, leader of this contingent of representatives of the New Lunar Republic, and my companions and I would like to extend our best wishes for your trip, wherever you may be headed."
"Uh..." White Noise began. "New Lunar Republic?"
Quickblink's face took on a look of shock. "You can't mean to tell me you haven't heard about the New Lunar Republic, the future haven of all forward-thinking equines – and might I say, Sir Zebra, on behalf of my countryponies, it is an honour to host a guest from the mighty empire of Zebrica."
Sibwashie noticed that Quickblink had very nearly said "ponies" and smiled inwardly. Outwardly, he gave the unicorn a polite nod and a far less sarcastic smile.
"Nope, I'm afraid 'Lunar Republic' really doesn't ring a bell," offered Sky with a shrug.
"Then please," began Quickblink, her horn glowing, "take a flier!"
The unicorn's cap flew up with a flourish, and a glossy black pamphlet floated out of one of the pockets and deposited itself at Sky Wave's feet.
"Now while I'd love to stay and chat, the band and I have a very busy schedule to keep to. Please take the time to read about our movement during your journey, and if you have any further questions, you should be able to find satisfactory answers at one of our offices – you'll find at least one New Lunar Republic outpost in most towns and cities in Equestria. Good day to you all."
Quickblink lowered her foreleg and the band behind her resumed playing from the very note they'd left off on. White Noise and his friends cleared out of their way as they marched along the dirt path and off into the distance.
"Well there's something you don't see every day," snarked White, once the marching band was out of earshot. "I wonder what this whole business is about: must be quite a big deal to inspire that kind of a performance from those band ponies."
White Noise remembered his short-lived marching band days back at the Princess's school. The band was made up of very talented and creative musicians, and also it had him in it. Needless to say, the creative differences everypony had with everypony else didn't win them any accolades. It's hard to be gifted sometimes, he thought, smiling wryly to himself.
"I wonder who does these pamphlets," muttered Sky Wave, admiring the pamphlet's shininess and pleasing layout as she unfolded it and spread it out in front of her with her hooves. "I should get some like this for my performances, that'd really snazz them right up."
"What does it say?" asked White Noise.
"There's an interesting-looking write-up about the movement's inspiration in the centre of this page," Sky replied, scrunching her eyes up with a look of concentration. "Let's see here..."
«-oOo-»
More than one thousand years before, when the Royal Pony Sisters ruled Equestria from their stone castle in the Everfree Forest (long before the word "Everfree" had taken on its present-day meaning and connotations), a group of brave pony travellers set out with large wood ships to explore the seas beyond Equestria, in search of new lands to explore and colonize.
A few days into their travels, they happened upon a lush tropical island, brimming with plant and animal life. The moment the ponies stepped of their rowboats, they knew that their short-lived quest had come to an abrupt end, for the island seemed to cast a spell upon anypony who set a hoof on its sandy shores.
It is said that in those days, whenever a pony lent down and put her ear to the ground, it was filled by the low, earthy tones of the very grass growing. Ponies who planted trees and crops experienced drastically-shortened wait times before their produce was ready for consumption.
After some months of prosperous pony living, the Royal Pony Sisters heard about their citizens' new settlement in the middle of the sea. It was decided that the younger sister would travel to the island and extend her congratulations and an offer of aid to the settler ponies, while the older sister stayed in Equestria to take care of matters there.
The younger sister took a ship to the island, and discovered its secret as soon as she disembarked. After a brief rendezvous with the island leaders, she called an urgent meeting of all the island's citizens, scheduled for dusk that very day.
When everypony was gathered in front of the royal alicorn, she thanked them all for coming and told them that she was about to reveal the reason for their new home's abnormal fertility.
Her horn began to glow as the gathered ponies watched her, riveted. As the glow became stronger, the ponies started to notice shimmering purple mist all around them. The mist was slowly settling on the grass, the trees and the crops of the farmer-ponies.
With a sudden flick of her head, the younger sister motioned for the assembled ponies to look up into the sky – up to the source of the purple mist.
When the ponies saw the moon that night, it was not the usual grey moon that they had become used to. The moon appeared solid purple. As comprehension dawned on the crowd, they bowed down to the younger sister and shouted their adoration and gratitude to her.
"My dear friend the moon has long smiled upon your island, my little ponies," she began. "Every night, it casts its spell upon the land, so that plants might grow, and the harvest of this island might be bountiful beyond imagination."
The island's leaders had a short conference, and it was decided that the island state would henceforth be called the Lunar Republic, in honour of the younger sister and her kind and gracious gift. A deafening cheer rose up to the heavens as ponies shouted the name "LUNA", their hearts overflowing with joy.
"Thank you, good ponies," said Luna, once the cheering had died down. "It pleases me to see you all so happy, but please remember one thing – remember what you saw tonight. Please remember what I have done for you and your families on this island."
«-oOo-»
"The rest of the story is actually pretty depressing," said Sky. "The ponies grew old and died; their children forgot about the moon and failed to give Luna any kind of respect or even thanks. And we all know what came of that."
White Noise and Sibwashie nodded. Given how much was generally known about Nightmare Moon and, by extension, Luna, it was hardly surprising that this story had fallen through the cracks of history. It shed a further light on the circumstances that led to Luna's fall and put an uncomfortable feeling in the pit of White Noise's stomach.
"What's also interesting is that after Nightmare Moon was imprisoned on the moon, it stopped fertilising the Lunar Republic," Sky added, reading further. "Apparently the effect has resurged slightly in the year since Nightmare's defeat, but it's nowhere near what it was in those ancient times."
Sky turned over the pamphlet and let out a startled gasp.
"Oh my... do you know what the Movement's ultimate plan is? They want to crown Princess Luna as the ruler of the Lunar Republic, so that everypony can, and I quote, 'escape Celestial tyranny'."
"Well that's not very nice," scowled White. "I'm inclined to go give these ponies an earful at their office – honestly... insulting Princess Celestia like that!"
"For what it's worth, they can't be that harmful if this is the first we've heard of them," Sky replied, cracking a smile. "I'm okay with them so long as they don't decide to replace their instruments with weapons and their marching bands with army platoons."
Sibwashie's eyes widened in fear at this remark, and he nearly choked on the mouthful of grass he'd been chewing lazily.
"I think she's just joking, Sib," White Noise said. "Ponies aren't known for their ferocity or willingness to fight at the drop of a hat – most of us, anyway. And I hardly think Princess Luna would approve."
"I wonder if she even knows about this," Sky pondered. "I hope she has a good laugh at it, rather than getting frightened."
***
One brisk canter-verging-on-a-gallop later, the travellers found themselves face-to-wood with a delightful painted sign depicting a grizzly old farmer pony shaking hooves with a young pegasus. Carved into the sign, above the picture, in large, easy-to-read-letters were the words
WELCOME TO HOOFINGTON
"The friendliest place in Equestria!"
Population: 900
"I am quite fond of the detail and colour in this work of art
It makes me feel that my home and here are really not so far apart," commented Sibwashie, staring appreciatively at the fuzzy edges that made it obvious that the sign had been painted by a mouth rather than a horn.
The sun had just shifted west from the middle of the sky when the travellers entered the town. They were greeted by a cul-de-sac of small wooden buildings with thatch roofs, arranged in a horseshoe pattern. The houses surrounded a large patch of land that was currently being used as a farmers' market, evidenced by the neat rows of various produce stands with their hastily-assembled wooden frames and striped awning roofs.
"We should find an inn to stay the night at," White Noise said. "We'll rent two rooms – I'm happy to share a room with Sibwashie, and then Sky can have her own."
"That place looks good," replied Sky Wave, pointing a hoof at a dark wooded building with swingy saloon doors and a sign that christened it the "Noble Manticore Inn".
More interesting than the writing on the sign, however, was the painting of a manticore wearing a top hat, walking with a cane and looking positively distinguished underneath it.
"Regardless of the quality of the rooms, I'd like to go in there just to ask about the name," quipped White.
***
The Noble Manticore Inn's check-in room was very small, but in a cosy sort of way. This atmosphere was aided greatly by the sounds of laughter and animated conversation coming from the dining room that it lead into, and by the warmth of the torchlight illuminating the staircase leading up to the rooms.
"Two rooms please," White Noise asked the plump, middle-aged mare at the counter. "One for the lady, and one for us stallions."
"Alright, that'll be –" the mare began, forgetting her words as she looked up and saw Sibwashie.
Sibwashie looked away as the mare gaped at him with wide, confused eyes. He'd been afraid of this kind of treatment in Equestria's small towns and villages. Most of the ponies there had never even seen a zebra, and of that number, the majority weren't even sure what zebras were. Or so he'd been told.
"Oh my, you're a zebra!" the check-in desk mare finally stammered out. "I've always wanted to meet a zebra! I've heard so much about Zebrica – you know, we ponies can sure learn a thing or two from you zebras. What's your name?"
"My name is Sibwashie, kind keeper of this fine inn
I am happy to hear such kind words about my kin," Sibwashie replied, trying not to let his surprise show on his face.
"So you do talk in rhymes!" the mare exclaimed excitedly. "Oh, how beautiful!"
Sibwashie smiled awkwardly and looked away. This hadn't been what he was expecting, and in some ways, that made it more difficult to deal with. To be honest, though, it wasn't entirely unpleasant.
"I'm going to give you a discount on that second room, considering how far your companion must have travelled already," the excited check-in mare told White Noise, turning her face back to him, "a two-bed room for the same cost as the one-bed room. That'll be thirty bits, please."
"With pleasure," replied White, levitating the bits out of his left saddlebag and placing them on the desk. "And thank you for the discount."
"You're welcome, my dears. Now do go and get something to eat – or at least to drink – in the dining room. Everypony will be thrilled to meet a real, live zebra and his real, live friends."
The check-in mare gave the group their keys, and one exchange of mutual gratitude later, they found themselves in the dining room, much to the apprehension of Sibwashie. I'm not sure I like all this attention, he thought. It makes me wish I didn't stand out quite so much. But I guess ambassadors get a lot of attention too, so maybe I'd better start getting used to this kind of thing.
Sibwashie, White Noise and Sky Wave soon found a three-place table to sit down at and were swiftly brought menus by the inn's efficient catering staff. In a few short and very efficient minutes, the ponies and zebra were all drinking cold, freshly-made lemonade.
"How are you folks enjoyin' my inn so far?" asked a gruff voice, as an older earth pony trotted up to their table.
The earth pony was pale brown, with a shock of fiery orange mane sticking out of his head as if it were about to burst off. His green eyes had a kindly expression in them, and his demeanour was so calm and slow that the travellers barely noticed him pulling up a seat to make their three-place table a four-place one.
"It's very nice so far," replied Sky Wave, taking another sip of her lemonade. "And this lemonade is absolutely delicious! How do you get it so sweet, Mr...?"
"That's a family secret, I'm afraid, and I didn't get this lemonade glass cutie mark for nothing. But what isn't a family secret is that you can call me Mr Hos-pit-ality!" grinned the brown and orange stallion. "No seriously, that's the name my wife – I assume you've met her, she's at the front desk – and I took for ourselves when we married. My original name is Grassfire."
"Grassfire?" asked White Noise, having not come across any similar names before.
"I was born during a dry winter, to a nomad family in the Plains," Grassfire replied, a wistful look coming into his eyes. "It was hard times – enormous fires had chased us from our last camp, and the horror of the flames bore heavily on everypony's minds. And then I was born."
Grassfire took a deep breath and looked down at his hooves.
"It was always hard times on the plains, to be fair," he continued. "Guess that's what civilized me in the end. That, and my dear Petunia. But that's a whole story of its own – a right exciting one, mind you, but it's a little long in the tooth, so let me stop before I keep you here all day with my rambling. Where're you folks from?"
"We came here from Fillydelphia, but only Sky Wave is actually from there," White Noise replied, motioning to Sky as he mentioned her. "I was born in Canterlot, and Sibwashie here is all the way from Zebrica, over the sea."
"Heh, I always thought a Canterlot pony would be above coming to my humble little inn."
"A lot of them probably would be," White Noise smirked.
"And a zebra all the way from Zebrica! It's not often that we host folks from so very far away in this inn; I hope the service is to your satisfaction, Mr Sibwashie."
The three travellers hit it off with Grassfire and ended up talking with him until dinner was served, talking through dinner, and then having cups of tea with him after dinner. He told them the long story of how he had met his wife and the shorter story behind the inn's name. They tried to tell him their own interesting stories as well, but they lacked the practice that comes with so many years of managing an inn and making lemonade.
Eventually, everypony decided that they were too tired to listen to any more stories, or drink anymore tea and lemonade. With some rounds of thanks and goodnights, the ponies and zebra ascended the staircase to their rooms – numbers 210 and 212 – and finally got into bed.
"Hoofington's a pretty different place from Fillydelphia, isn't it?" White Noise asked Sibwashie, as the two of them lay awake in their beds on opposite sides of the room.
"The greatest mistake for which a traveller can ever take the blame
Is assuming that all members of one race are exactly the same
"The culture of Equestria changes from town to city to town
Just as it does everywhere the sun comes up and goes down," Sibwashie said, after a slight pause.
"Well I guess so. Goodnight Sib."
***
Princess Celestia and her sister Luna sat in their private drawing room, deep in serious conversation.
"I really don't know what the story with these New Lunar Republic ponies is," Luna said, her voice strained with anxiety. "I promise I didn't know anything about it before you told me, Celly. I've never even met any of the ponies that are running this crazy thing!"
"Relax, Luna, I believe you," Celestia said soothingly, putting a hoof on her sister's shoulder. "Nightmare Moon might do something like this, but not my dear sister Princess Luna."
"Thanks Celly. That means a lot to me," Luna replied, her voice noticeably less stressed. "I don't know what to do about it. These ponies really love me, but they blame you, my wise older sister, for doing what you had to do all those years ago. They're calling you a tyrant and a trickster."
Celestia sighed deeply and let go of it with a little smile. She'd been the ruler of Equestria for over one thousand years and had spent the majority of that time as its only ruler. She'd seen her popularity wax and wane, and she'd had her share of criticism as well as praise. This was nothing new to her, but she could understand Luna's distress.
"I have an idea," Celestia said, after pondering the dilemma for a minute or two. "I think the time has come for you to pay another visit to the Lunar Republic, dear sister. Perhaps then you can straighten out your part – or lack thereof – in the minds of the ponies there and here and put a stop to some of the wilder rumours going around."
Luna nodded at her sister's suggestion, her good mood renewed now that she had a clear course of action. She turned around and stared out of the drawing room's largest window. She had made it a full moon that night.
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Ezn
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997
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Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
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<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-10-15T11:19:29+00:00
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2012-10-15T11:19:29+00:00
| 2,299 |
Chapter Three
"Alright Melvin, we're going to be opening the Hoofington shop a little earlier than I originally planned," White Noise said to the young, bespectacled blue dragon in front of him. "I hope you're prepared."
White Noise and his dragon friend were standing just outside of the boarded-up storefront that was soon to become the Hoofington branch of Dragonfire Delivery. Up until that date, the ponies of Hoofington had only been able to receive messages by dragonfire from Melvin, who sat at the post office all day and burped. Now they would be able to send messages via dragonfire as well.
"I'll be glad to move to a more peaceful working environment," Melvin huffed. "The ruffians at the post office are always making such a racket."
"Don't expect it to be too peaceful," replied White Noise. "That wouldn't be good for business!"
"I wouldn't count on Hoofington to keep the business afloat, sir. I'm not sure any of the ponies here have ever been more than a few miles out of town in their lives. Who would they even send letters too?"
White Noise sighed.
"Let's just get this shop open, shall we?"
***
In keeping with its name, the town of Hoofington was built in the shape of four hooves, or perhaps more accurately, four horseshoes. This gave the town four separate "squares", two of which were regularly used for markets and one of which was used as a park. The remaining square was occasionally used for town meetings.
It was a busy day for Hoofington's market squares. A fair number of the town's population were out spending their bits on all manner of fresh produce at the farmers' market, and even more ponies had shown up to see the wares of the fleet of caravan merchants that had set up shop in Hoofington's other market square the previous night.
Among the crowds milling around the latter market area were Sky Wave and Sibwashie, who were out taking a leisurely walk after breakfast.
"You there!" came a loud cry. "Mr Zebra, sir! I think you would be very interested in one of the items I have here today."
Sibwashie turned in the direction of the voice to see a dark blue earth pony with a thick black moustache and the eager and slightly slimy grin of an all-too-experienced salespony.
"For what purpose do you call for my attention, pony sir?
And what about my purchasing habits can you infer?" Sibwashie said slowly.
"You seem like a smart chap, Mister, very intelligent indeed," the salespony replied, his fast words betraying a working-class Manehattan accent. "Nope, you sure as anything ain't no fool. So I'm sure you're aware of just how important it is to be protected from curses! Only a fool would let themselves wander around all open to being cursed by anypony with the know-how!"
Before Sibwashie could give a retort, the salespony had pulled a number of bottles and jars of strange-coloured liquid out from under his table, all with hastily scrawled labels.
"I've got curse-blocking potions, curse-blocking body sprays and even some curse-ward bubble bath here," the fast-talking pony continued. "These are all one hundred percent effective, certified by not one, not two but three highly-re-spected zebra magic scholars from Manehattan, home of the great. No right-thinking indiv-idual can afford to go without these must-have items!"
Sibwashie dug his hoof into the ground, and a scowl formed on his face.
"I don't know what stories you have heard about zebra-kind
But I can see through the tricks you're playing on my mind," he retorted as he stomped off, leaving the vendor to curse under his breath.
Sky hurried to catch up with her companion, shooting the vendor a dirty look as she cantered off.
"I'm so sorry about that, Sibwashie," she said. "Some ponies are just... like that."
Sibwashie took a deep breath and seemed to calm down.
"Do not worry; I will not use him to judge all of you
That would be a most hypocritical thing to do."
"Ha, it would!" laughed Sky, smiling awkwardly.
The pegasus and zebra continued wandering through the marketplace, making a concerted effort to avoid any salesponies that looked even a little too eager to sell them things.
"Oh, my dear, what a lovely shade of pink your coat is! I've got a saddle here that was made for you."
"No thanks."
"In the market for a stronger plow, sir? This beautiful piece of farm engineering here is guaranteed to be the last plow you'll ever need to buy!"
"I do not have a farm, my friend
The tree you're barking up is a dead-end."
Eventually the two came to the end of the market, and were able to say with certainty that they had seen all of the stalls and found nothing of interest in any of them. A pretty necklace had caught Sky Wave's eye, but closer inspection revealed a heart around the name "ICY WIND" carved into the back of the pendant. As nice as it would have been to own a genuine piece of Eskimo pony jewellery, Sky decided that she wouldn't have felt right wearing it.
As Sibwashie and Sky Wave were walking through the town, a little yellow filly came barrelling out of the door of one of the small houses, laughing and shouting, presumably playing a game with some of her friends. The filly was having so much fun that she wasn't even looking where she was going and she ran right into Sibwashie.
"OOHF," she gasped as her little body slammed into Sibwashie's right foreleg and came to a standstill.
Sky gasped. "Are you okay, dear?"
Slightly dazed, the filly stumbled backwards and landed on her haunches. She blinked a few times and then smiled and nodded vigorously.
Then she noticed the large black-and-white striped pony she had run into. She looked up at the thick Mohawk that rose up from his head and her eyes widened in fear.
Before Sibwashie could say anything to calm the child, she cried out in fear and bolted back into the cottage she'd come out of.
Sky frowned and looked at Sibwashie, who merely shrugged. The pony and zebra were prepared to leave it at that when two other ponies – a mare and a stallion, some years older than themselves – came running up to them with anxious looks on their faces.
"Oh my..." Sky began, trailing off as she wondered how these ponies would mistreat her zebra friend.
***
"I've come up with my own personal dragonfire jar filing system, you know," Melvin sad, puffing out his chest in a proud manner. "It's quite ingenious, if I do say so myself. I've got all the dragonfire set out perfectly in the back room."
"I'm glad to hear that, Melvin," White Noise replied. "I always like it when my employees take initiative – finding new and better ways of doing things is the philosophy that I started Dragonfire Delivery on, and it continues to inform every new business decision I make."
The dragon had unlocked the door of the shop and led White Noise through it and into the storeroom. Taking a quick glance around the shop's main room as he passed through it, White noted that it had been cleaned recently – not a spot of dust could be seen, which was surprising for a place that saw so little use.
"Here we are," Melvin said, pointing at the shelves that covered the walls of the storeroom he and White Noise had just entered with a flourish of his clawed right hand. "Primary sort: geographical distance from Hoofington, with the closest places closest to the door. Secondary sort: date of manufacture, oldest in front, newest in back, avoiding the possibility of dragonfire sitting on the shelves forever."
"Very good, Melvin," replied White Noise, his eyes turning away from the dragon's precious shelves. "And what's that about?"
White gestured with a hoof to the only space of the wall unadorned by shelves. In their place, a glossy poster hung. It depicted a blue-coated mare with a white mane and a purple cloak and wizard hat. Large letters in circus-script proclaimed her
THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIXIE!
BRAVE HEROINE OF TROTTINGHAM
The poster went on to say that she had used her astounding magical powers to banish an Ursa Major that threatened to destroy the town, and that she would be performing for the ponies of Hoofington for one night only: a truly grand spectacle that was not to be missed.
"I enjoyed her show," Melvin replied indignantly. "It's not often that one sees very much magic here in this dinky little farming town full of earth ponies. Also, I got her autograph!"
Sure enough, an overdone cursive signature had been splattered across the bottom-right corner of the poster, with the words "to Mervin" written above it.
"Sure, she may have misspelt my name, but it's the thought that counts, isn't it?" Melvin defended when White Noise brought up the mistake in the message. "She's a busy lady, after all – all that travel and adventure, you know."
White Noise decided to change the subject: "Seeing as you've already got the storeroom organized perfectly, there's not much left to do now but open for business. Help me move some of these jars to the main room, and we'll get them arranged nicely on the shelves behind the desk for everypony to see what we're selling them."
Melvin grunted his consent and grabbed two jars from right near the door. White Noise levitated a few more in front of him as he stepped out of the storeroom. He decided that opening this branch would probably be fairly easy going, as Melvin was pretty well-organized, if a little snotty about Hoofington and the ponies living there.
***
"We're very sorry about our daughter," the parents began, their eyes filled with concern as they faced Sibwashie.
"I promise we raised her better than that, sir," implored the mother. "It's just... she's never seen a zebra before."
Sibwashie smiled and lifted a hoof in understanding. This wasn't the hostile reaction he had been expecting from the filly's parents, and that lifted his mood considerably.
"It is quite alright; I fully understand that your child is still young
Please do not reprimand her too harshly with your parental tongue."
"Oh don't worry, we won't," the filly's father said. "We'll just have a chat with her about respect for non-ponies – zebras in particular."
Sibwashie and the parent ponies parted on amicable terms, leaving a smile on the zebra's face. But just before they were out of earshot, the mare stopped in her tracks, apparently hit by a sudden idea.
"Hey, Mr Zebra sir," she called out excitedly, "would you like to have dinner with us this evening? Perhaps you could talk to our girl and show her first-hoof that she shouldn't be afraid of zebras. Oh, and what's your name?"
"I call myself Sibwashie
Student of the art of diploma-see," Sibwashie replied proudly, having recently devised that introduction couplet and just now found an opportunity to use it.
"I'm Garden Rose, and my husband's name is Placid Fields," the mare replied. "Our daughter is Daffodil, and we live in this cottage that she just ran into. Please do join us for dinner at sunset – and feel free bring to your lady-friend as well."
"Thank you kind earth ponies for your gracious invite
I shall see you here, on the cusp of Princess Luna's night."
Garden Rose giggled and nudged her husband before the two of them waved goodbye and disappeared around a corner.
"That was unexpected," said Sky flatly, speaking again after an extended silence. "In a good way though. Also: lady-friend?"
Sibwashie shrugged.
"Eh, whatever. I'm certainly not going to turn down the cooking of small-town earth ponies... mmm... I can taste the carrot soup already..."
***
White Noise levitated a "Sorry, We're Closed/Yay! We're Open" sign out of one of his saddlebags and placed it on the door of the newest branch of Dragonfire Delivery, with the latter side facing outward. The store interior had been cleaned, the dragonfire jars had been laid out appealingly on the shelves at the back, and all that remained was to help Dragonfire Delivery's first Hoofington customer.
"Okay Melvin, I'm going to help the first customer, and I want you to watch what I do very carefully," instructed White Noise, "because you will be helping our second customer."
Melvin nodded detachedly as he and White Noise took their places behind the counter and began to wait.
It wasn't long before the duo's first customer – an earth pony mare with a light orange coat – walked in. She had a pleasant smile that gave away just the slightest hint of puzzlement.
"Welcome to Dragonfire Delivery, ma'am," White Noise said enthusiastically, looking the mare in the eye. "How may we help you?"
"Uh... yes," she began, the confusion on her face growing. "I noticed this shop that wasn't here yesterday, and I was just wondering, uh, what is that you... do... exactly?"
White Noise smiled.
"Dragonfire Delivery is the future of long distance communication in Equestria, ma'am," he said proudly, levitating a jar labelled "FILLYDELPHIA" off the shelf behind him. "Using the magic of dragonfire, we can send messages across vast distances in the blink of an eye. And because you are our very first customer, we will now give you a first-hand demonstration. Melvin, take a note."
Upon producing a quill and a scroll of parchment, Melvin fixed his eyes over the paper, ready to take dictation. Dragonfire Delivery's first Hoofington customer smiled and looked intently at the jar of dragonfire sitting on the counter in front of her.
"For this demonstration, I will be sending a letter to my shopkeeper in Fillydelphia, a dragon called Turquois," White Noise began. "Melvin, write this: 'Hello Turquois. Please reply to this message as soon as you get it. Signed, White Noise'."
Once Melvin had written the message and rolled up the scroll, White Noise levitated it out of his grasp and held it over the dragonfire jar.
"Now I'm going to unscrew the lid and drop the message onto the green flame."
White Noise did as he said, and the mare watched in awe as the flame wrapped around the message and burnt it up, destroying itself in the process and leaving an empty jar.
"The message has been sent, and now we must just wait for a reply."
Soon enough, Melvin coughed and spat a message out onto the table, causing the mare to recoil a bit. Melvin was a young dragon, so he did not yet have complete mastery over his magic, but he had managed to tone message delivery down from a retch to a semi-polite cough. Turquois in Fillydelphia was the only dragon White Noise knew who could receive a message with a breath, something she was very proud of.
"Would you do the honours of unrolling the scroll, ma'am?" asked White Noise. "I assure you, it's quite safe to touch – that is how all dragonfire messages are sent, after all."
The mare smiled nervously and nosed open the scroll. It was a copy of that day's Fillydelphia Post, with the words "Here you go, boss. -Turq" scrawled across the top. White Noise made a mental note to congratulate his Fillydelphia assistant for devising such an ingenious method of proving the legitimacy of his system.
"Woah," said the mare, checking and double-checking the date on the newspaper. "I'll take two please: one for Trottingham and one for Ponyville."
"At a special, first-customer-only discount, of course," White replied with a charismatic smile, levitating the relevant jars off the shelf behind him. "Tell your friends!"
***
As their lack of a common name indicated, Garden Rose and Placid Fields were a very modern couple, and kept a neat little homestead without too many frilly decorations – although that could have been because one of the cottage's three occupants was a very energetic and curious little filly.
However, much to the delight of Sibwashie – and the even greater delight of Sky Wave – good cooking had clearly not gone out of fashion along with shared names.
The two had informed White Noise of the dinner and ensured him that he would be welcomed in true small-town earth pony fashion should he choose to join them, but he had instead elected to stay behind at Dragonfire Delivery and take care of all the administrative paperwork that goes with opening a new branch of one's business.
"What's it like where you come from, Sibwashie?" Garden Rose asked, after taking a polite sip of her expertly-prepared carrot soup. "Is Zebrica much different from Equestria?"
Sibwashie finished swallowing his mouthful of soup and thought for a moment before answering.
"If you look on the surface, many differences you'll see
But where it really matters, zebras and ponies are alike as can be
"In Zebrica the forests make way for great savannahs and deserts where wild animals roam
But much like ponies, zebras enjoy good foods, good friends and the comfort of a warm home
"Our magic is different from yours, as not one of us possesses a horn
But we don't believe in curses or other imaginings of which the foolish forewarn."
Placid Fields clapped his front hooves together appreciatively once Sibwashie had finished his poetic speech.
"I've always really liked the way you zebra folk talk," he said. "I remember seeing a play that a zebra acting troupe put on once, and they kept up that fantastic rhyming all the way through: in every piece of dialogue and all the narrations. They even thanked us for watching the play afterwards in poetry."
Daffodil, who had been sitting very quietly at one end of the table for the entire meal, suddenly became very animated. Her eyes lit up at her father's mention of the word "play" and she almost started hopping around in excitement.
"A play?" she asked, eyes bulging ever further out of their sockets. "Ooh, ooh, Daddy, Daddy! Can you please please please take me to see the zebra play? Please, oh please, oh please, oh please!"
Placid Fields smiled kindly at his daughter, feeling glad that she had seemingly got over her fear of zebras. "Of course, dear. Next time they come into town, I promise we'll go."
Sky Wave smiled to herself. She had noticed that the filly had yet to get her cutie mark, and something told her she already had a pretty good idea of what it would look like.
"Now, Sibwashie," began Placid, speaking quite gravely. "As a zebra in Equestria, it must be hard for you to... blend in, right? Ponies tend to, maybe, make judgements about you based on your... heritage?"
Sibwashie nodded, not sure where Placid was going with this sudden shift in tone.
"Have you experienced any of that kind of negativity here in Hoofington?"
Sibwashie put a hoof to his chin and thought for a moment, before telling the stallion about the incident in the marketplace. He also remembered that Petunia Hospitality had been abnormally excited to meet him because of his "heritage", but didn't mention it. That was hardly "negativity", he thought.
The stallion's expression turned sour, and he opened his mouth to make a serious proclamation: "That simply shall not do. We the people of Hoofington cannot tolerate that kind of insensitive behaviour. Luckily, I have some connections in the governance of this town, so I'll have a chat with some influential people to ensure that such an incident is not repeated within our borders – not even by any other non-Hoofingtonians."
Sibwashie nodded and expressed his gratitude, not really knowing what else to do. Once Placid Fields looked satisfied, the family and their guests continued to sip their carrot soup.
***
Sometime earlier, White Noise and Melvin received their second customer. White nudged the dragon with an elbow, reminding him that this customer was his.
The customer in question was a stout, older stallion with streaks of grey going through his black mane. A brown, slightly-fraying fedora sat atop his head, tilted at a jaunty angle. His pale yellow eyes bore a twinkle of good-naturedness.
"Good afternoon sir," Melvin said stiffly, apparently not even trying to imitate his boss's enthusiasm. "Welcome to Dragonfire Delivery. How may we help you?"
The stallion screwed up his eyes and made a strange expression with his mouth, as if he was thinking very hard about something.
"Errr... yis," he said at last, through a thick accent. "Ah wuz 'opin' that yew culd uuze yir fency dragone fyre to send this 'ere loaf of 'ome'ade bread ta mah boy in Appleloosa."
Now it was Melvin's turn to screw up his face in a confused expression. He was about to ask the stallion to repeat himself – at a slower pace this time – when a loaf of bread was thumped down on the counter in front of Melvin and he made the connection.
Sighing deeply, Melvin shot off a response: "I am sorry sir, but the dragonfire used by Dragonfire Delivery can only be used to send scrolls of parchment, not baked goods."
Even though this was the first customer Melvin had ever dealt with, he somehow managed to say this line through such a thick film of boredom and apathy that one could be forgiven for thinking that he had been suffering through a dead-end service industry job for his entire life – and perhaps even a little longer.
"Wut's that son?" asked the kindly old stallion. "Wha'ever dya mean?"
"Sir, I regret to inform you that Dragonfire Delivery physically cannot send your loaf of bread to Appleloosa," Melvin replied, rolling his eyes.
"Ah dun geddit."
"Dragonfire is to be used exclusively for the transfer of written correspondence."
"Speak plainly-like, boy!"
"Can't. Send. Bread. Sir."
"Why naut?"
"It. Won't. Burn."
"Ah think it'll burn jus' fine. Why, one time when Ah wuz jus' a li'l colt, Ah used bread to keep mah campfire goin'. Y'see, like e'ery yung'un, Ah ran away frum 'ome once and –"
"I'm sorry sir but your bread will not burn in special green dragonfire regardless of its flammability properties with respect to regular fire good DAY!"
Melvin forced the final word of his long sentence out with such force that, had it been a loaf of bread sent by dragonfire rather than just a word, it would have shot across the store and knocked the old stallion out cold.
"Well a'right then," the stallion said, looking at the floor. "Yah dun need ta be so rude 'bout it. Gud day ta y'all 'swell."
The old stallion picked up his loaf of bread and turned to tail to leave the shop. Once he was out the door, Melvin let out a long breath of relief – only to suck it right back in again when he caught the edge of White Noise's disapproving glare.
"Did I do..."
"No, Melvin. You didn't do good. Not at all."
***
Sibwashie awoke the next day to another idyllic Hoofington morning. The caravan merchants from the previous day had long ago packed up their wares and left town, leaving a quiet early morning atmosphere and a desolate market square.
Desolate, that is, except for a group of three athletic young stallion earth ponies kicking around a white and black ball. Sibwashie's ears perked up when he recognized the game they were playing – it was the international sport of hoofball, and they were playing in the rather unfair teams of two versus one.
The stallions were all varying shades of brown, with short manes and tails that varied from pitch black to a light green. All three of them were lean and well-muscled, although none of them were quite as solidly-built as Sibwashie.
Sibwashie galloped up to the ponies excitedly and shouted an enthusiastic greeting and appeal to join their game.
"Good morning, sportsponies, I see you are playing hoofball, my very favourite sport
I'd very much like to join you, and then you would no longer be one player short."
The earth ponies exchanged glances, and then the one who had hitherto been on his own nodded eagerly and beckoned Sibwashie over, while the other two nodded and motioned with a little less eagerness.
"Okay, reset the score!" called Sibwashie's new team-mate, before turning to him. "We're scoring over there, and the other team's scoring over here. You're a pretty big guy – how about you defend, and I'll attack?"
Sibwashie nodded his agreement and in moments, the game was on.
Playing hoofball again reminded Sibwashie of long afternoons during his childhood, when he and the other young boys in his village would all get together and play a game or six. Sometimes he'd win, sometimes he'd lose, and sometimes no-one remembered to keep score.
Sibwashie had the ball. Head angled down, he wound his way between the two opposing team ponies, dribbling the ball in between his forelegs. The goal was in sight, but it was still a little far away. Sibwashie spun around, preparing to buck the ball for all he was worth...
...and one of the opposing ponies whisked it out from behind his hooves, leaving him to buck air.
Not losing a moment, Sibwashie smiled and regained his footing, tearing after the pony with the ball as soon as he laid eyes on him.
The pony was going for their goals. Out of the corner of his vision, Sibwashie saw that his teammate had moved in to mark the second pony on the opposing team, who was sliding up to a position near the goals.
The stallion with the ball looked around frantically for a few moments. Sibwashie was gaining on him from the one side, and to another side his teammate was being aggressively marked. Thinking quickly, he angled himself towards his teammate and set himself up for a pass.
Then, at the last minute, the pony whipped himself around and bucked the ball straight between the two trees that made up Sibwashie's team's goalposts.
It was a decisive shot, and the score was set to one-zero, in the opposing team's favour.
The game continued in that vein for some time. Sibwashie and his teammate scored a lucky goal, but the others managed to get a further two goals passed them. Sibwashie's teammate shot him an anxious look as the score changed from two-one to three-one.
The sun was inching ever higher in the sky, and the hoofball players were sweating from exertion when another pony stepped onto the field. This newcomer was an older stallion wearing a policepony's hat and presumably not intending to join the game.
The policepony beckoned the closest member of the opposing team over to him and whispered something in his ear. Whatever it was, it made the stallion nod profusely as his eyes widened. The policepony smiled and patted the stallion on the back with a hoof before moving out of the field of play.
"Carry on!" he bellowed.
***
White Noise ambled towards the entrance of his newest Dragonfire Delivery store, still blinking the sleep out of his eyes. After giving his assistant a long lecture about proper behaviour towards customers, and then leading him through an impromptu employee training session, he had to spend the rest of the previous night filling out forms and balancing his books. The moon was very low in the sky when he had finally finished and crawled back to the inn and into his bed.
It was nearly noon and the unicorn had only just woken up. White hoped that Melvin had taken at least some of what he'd said the previous day to heart and hadn't managed to make too many more ponies swear off Dragonfire Delivery.
White Noise entered the shop just as another pony was leaving. A quick glance at her face showed him that she was smiling and had probably – to his great surprise – received satisfactory service.
"Good afternoon, boss," Melvin said cheerfully, loudly placing a number of bits into the cashbox in front of him. "You'll be glad to know that we've been very busy today. The word must have spread since you asked that lady to tell her friends about us yesterday."
"Uh, yes," White replied tentatively, taken aback by Melvin's new, positive attitude. "I'm, uh, glad to see you were listening to the things I told you yesterday, Melvin."
"Why of course I was, sir," Melvin replied indignantly. "I'd say I've certainly turned over a new leaf this morning. I'm fully prepared to give my all to these customers and start earning my salary."
And indeed he had. White watched in appreciation as customers would come in, one by one and be treated with dignity and respect. He would be patient with the old earth ponies who didn't entirely understand how the system worked, and he would be quick and efficient with the busy young unicorns who absolutely needed to send messages to every town in Equestria.
White Noise left Melvin to handle the store on his own a little later in the afternoon, after giving him a commendation and the promise of a bonus later on in the year.
***
"Another excellent goal, Sibwashie!" said Twitch, smiling with his mouth. "Let's call it day though – I'd say you two have us thoroughly beaten."
A round of hoofbumps and proper introductions later, Sibwashie parted ways from Twitch, Trailblazer and Jump. Final score: five-three to Sibwashie and Jump.
This triumphant turnaround didn't make Sibwashie as happy as he had thought it would. The game had been very different after the policepony's interruption. It seemed to move at a much slower pace, and Twitch stopped catching Sibwashie out with his signature jerky movements quite as much.
Sibwashie had scored three out of his team's five goals, and he had never even been very much of a shooter back home – he had pretty much always played goalkeeper. He was certain that the other ponies had been holding back and letting him do well at the game. But why would they do that? he thought. Surely they just got tired in the second half of the game, and I just had a bit of a lucky streak.
"Hey Sibwashie, how's it going?" called out Sky Wave, as she and White Noise turned a corner and came into the zebra's view. "White's just told me that the dragon in his shop here has proven himself capable of handling the place on his own, so we figured we'd get some lunch to celebrate that! Want to come with?"
"I am pleased to hear that your business is going well
And some lunch just about now sounds pretty swell," Sibwashie replied.
"There's a nice little eatery a few shops down from Dragonfire Delivery that'd probably be nice to try," White Noise suggested. "It's not as famous as the last place Sibwashie and I had lunch at, but I think it should do nicely all the same."
The two ponies and zebra made their way to the eatery, and true to White Noise's word, it was a pleasant, quaint little place. The three sat down on hay bale-seats around an outside table and ordered soups, salads, sandwiches and their lunch-appropriate ilk.
Everything was going swimmingly until Sibwashie lifted up a leaf of lettuce and found a worm crawling across its underside. A little shocked, Sibwashie put the leaf down on a sideplate and discretely pointed it out to White and Sky. The three companions shared amused smiles.
"Good thing it's a live worm," whispered Sky Wave. "That's how you can tell the salad's fresh."
No sooner had Sky finished her hushed sentence than the sound of thundering hooves filled the eatery's outdoor section as not one but two very flustered-looking waiters rushed over to their table and snatched up Sibwashie's salad, apologizing profusely all the while.
"Our humblest, humblest apologies, good sir," the first waiter said. "We are utterly ashamed about this terrible, terrible travesty and the bleak misfortune that cause it to be visited on you today."
A third waiter cantered over, balancing two salads on his back.
"Please, accept these two free salads as our apology to you," said the second waiter – a unicorn – as he levitated the salads onto the table in front of Sibwashie. "And if there's anything else you need, don't hesitate to ask. Please remember, we are in your debt."
Their melodramatic play over, the waiters disappeared into the eatery kitchen, leaving a very confused zebra and his very confused pony friends to stare at the two salads in silence.
"...Are you gonna eat that?" asked Sky Wave.
Without a word, Sibwashie nosed the plate over to her.
***
"They probably treat all their customers like that," White Noise hypothesised as he, Sky Wave and Sibwashie left the eatery. "These businesses have a small enough customer base that it's very important to leave everypony with a good impression. Everyzebra too."
"Haha!" laughed Sky, pointing a hoof at something in front of the group. "Look at that poor guy!"
Sibwashie and White Noise's eyes followed Sky's hoof and came to rest on a blue earth pony stallion who was desperately trying a to balance an enormous fruit-basket on his back. He tottered in one direction and then another as we walked along the path in front of them, looking like he was going to drop the basket at any second. The pony had obviously never worked as a waiter.
"Vhis vis veavy," came a muffled voice from above the blue pony's head.
A sharp thud drew his attention to his side, where Sky Wave was lying with her wings extended and her mouth over the handle of the giant fruit basket.
"Perhaps we could help you carry this basket to wherever it is that you're going, friend," said White. "No offense, but you're not really managing so well on your own."
The blue stallion only smiled nervously at White's offer, staring at some point beyond him and Sky. Sibwashie raised an eyebrow – he was getting more than a little weirded out by this new pony's staring.
"Zebra from a foreign land, we have brought you a selection of Hoofington's finest produce
Please enjoy this complementary fruit basket – and remember, you can ask for more-juice," said the pony at last, sweating profusely all the while.
Sibwashie stared blankly at the pony while White Noise cringed at the rhyme. Gears were turning in the zebra's head, and he decided he had had quite enough of this bizarre preferential treatment.
He told the stallion to keep his over-sized fruit-basket and stormed off, with White Noise and Sky Wave cantering behind him. Sky cast a sorrowful glance at the fruit basket before remembering that she had just had lunch and really didn't need any more food.
***
"That basket of fruit made to feed a village was the final straw
I'm sorting this weirdness out with the an officer of the law.
"The policepony I saw at the game earlier on today
Will tell me why everything's going my way," said Sibwashie determinedly, after filling White Noise and Sky Wave in on his day.
The zebra and his two pony friends soon arrived at Hoofington's small police-department – a cottage that had been painted deep blue and given a sign with a gold badge drawn on it. Upon entering the building, Sibwashie immediately set eyes on the stout policepony he thought responsible for his preferential treatment.
"Uh, hello zebra visitor from a faraway land –"
Sibwashie cleared his throat and started to speak before the policepony had finished; likely saving the latter party from perpetrating a crime against language with an awfully contrived rhyme.
"Mister policepony, I saw you earlier today at my game of hoofball
You helped me turn it around and win when I had my back to the wall.
"Sadly, you were not playing, so the help was not fair
Why did you do as you did: why did you care?"
The policepony swallowed. His eyes turned from the accusing stare of Sibwashie to the merely puzzled stares of Sky and White, and he breathed out, as if releasing a load from his chest.
"It's the mayor's orders, sir," said the policepony meekly. "She got us policeponies together this morning because she wanted to make you feel welcome in Hoofington and make sure nopony was short with you. We can't have discrimination or hate in the friendliest town in Equestria, now can we?"
"Where can we find this mayor?" asked White Noise.
"She should be in her office at the town hall, signing papers and doing mayor-stuff."
***
Sibwashie and co. burst into the mayor's office to find a surprised-looking tan earth pony mare with a curly brown mane. Getting as far as the office had proven no trouble for Sibwashie, given his new status in the town – the trickiest part had been convincing the staff not to have him carried up to the office on a recliner.
"Before you start rhyming and asking how you can make his day better," began White Noise, making fierce eye-contact with the mare. "My zebra friend has some questions for you."
Nodding to White, Sibwashie began:
"Ms Mayor, please tell me why you have thought it fitting
To single me out for favours and gifts unremitting.
"I am little more than a humble traveller, moving through your town
There is no need to accommodate me by turning it upside-down."
The mayor pushed her glasses up on her nose and stared blankly at Sibwashie, the gears slowly turning in her head as she tried to figure out how to reply.
"I'm sorry, Mr Sibwashie," she said at last. "I was approached this morning by my good friend Placid Fields, who told me that we had a zebra staying in our town, and it was of utmost importance that he be treated right, in accordance with our creed of friendship."
"Friendship is one thing, ma'am," interrupted Sky Wave. "But you had the whole town going mad trying to keep a smile on Sibwashie's muzzle. Isn't that a little excessive?"
The mayor put a hoof to her chin and nodded slowly. "I suppose it is, when you put it that way. But we have a good reason for our behaviour."
"This reason I would very much like you to tell
And I'm sure my friends are interested as well."
***
"It's largely to do with someone we knew as foals," began Placid Fields, speaking clearly and slowly into the eager ears of Sibwashie and his friends.
The mayor had summoned Placid, his wife Garden Rose, and the chief of police (the stout policepony Sibwashie had met earlier). The group sat in a circle, listening to Placid Fields tell them the story – a story which the Hoofingtonians in the group knew all too well.
"Nearly thirty years ago, a zebra lady named Maseni lived in Hoofington," Placid continued. "She was a kind old lady who would always gather us children around and tell us fantastic stories about her homeland and about her many travels throughout the world. She had had a lot of adventures in her long life and had seen so many wonderful things. The adults were all scared of her, but we kids knew better. Maseni was like a second mother to us."
"I remember one time, I had a cold," interjected Garden Rose. "It was quite dreadful and it absolutely wouldn't go away. I would sneeze and sneeze, and I'm sure I kept all of Hoofington awake at night with the racket my nose made. Anyway, it was on the second day of my illness that I woke up to find a steaming bowl of soup on my window pane, with a note attached. I couldn't read the note, but I recognized Maseni's beautiful Zebrican signature at the bottom. The point is, the soup was delicious and made me better within a day."
Sibwashie smiled, remembering his mother's soups and how they would chase out any ailment he was feeling with warmth and flavour.
"As I was saying," continued Placid Fields. "The adults were all afraid of Maseni, and they'd always tell us to stop visiting her and tell us horror stories about curses and tasty pony stews. Not that we listened. Eventually though, they found a reason to kick her out of the town: some contrived thing about a health hazard posed by her exotic garden – I was too young at the time to really understand what was going on."
"Our elders were really horrible about the whole business," added the mayor. "They jeered at Maseni as she left town with the few belongings she could carry in an old set of saddlebags and then had a huge party to celebrate her departure."
"Thankfully the old coots have been calmed down by the wisdom that comes with age," the police chief said. "And now that our generation holds most of the power here in Hoofington, we've dedicated ourselves to making this town a place of friendship and acceptance."
For a time afterwards, Sibwashie was silent. He had become quite angry with the town's treatment of him: as if he was a poor, lost foreigner who needed all the kindness the ponies could possibly give him to wipe away the blemish of one insult by one pony. As if the town of Hoofington were afraid he would judge them unfairly because of some slight unpleasantness experienced within their borders.
Now the zebra saw that their pandering was an honest mistake; the result of an over-correction of a past injustice that the ponies still felt some lingering sense of guilt about. Sibwashie had seen his share of bigotry and misunderstanding and moreover, he understood what it was to want to redeem the actions of one's forebears.
"I thank you good citizens for the work of your best intentions
And I understand their cause, as you and I are similar in some dimensions."
***
Melvin watched White Noise and his companions head out of Hoofington through one of the shop windows. He'd heard they'd caused some stir at the mayor's office the previous day, but he also heard, later on, that everything had worked out alright, so he hadn't bothered to investigate further.
Once the travellers had disappeared around a bend in the E7, Melvin turned his attention back to the shop's entrance. A unicorn mare entered and asked him for an Appleloosa jar of dragonfire, which he swiftly retrieved from the shelves behind him.
"That'll be thirty bits please," he said.
"Here you go," replied the customer, levitating the necessary currency into Melvin's waiting claws.
Melvin smiled to himself once the customer had left the store. He remembered how White had always told him and the other dragon that "distance doesn't matter to dragonfire". According to the learned unicorn, that was the crux of his whole business.
White Noise is an academic, not a businesspony, thought Melvin. The customers don't know how dragonfire works, and therefore they have no idea whether or not distance is a factor. Any shrewd businessperson would figure out how to take advantage of that.
Officially, jars of dragonfire were to be sold for twenty bits each, regardless of destination. Melvin had happened upon the idea of charging extra bits for deliveries to further away places while sorting the shop's jars of dragonfire according to geographical proximity. He figured he'd be able to spin a story about magic intensity or flame size if he ever needed to back himself up and seeing as he was dragon, ponies would have to believe him.
Melvin's boss would never approve of such a business practice, for a variety of reasons the dragon hadn't paid attention to during his employee orientation, and that was why Melvin smiled extra wide as he slipped ten of the bits he'd just received into a bag under the counter.
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Ezn
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997
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Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-10-16T11:32:33+00:00
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2012-10-16T11:32:33+00:00
| 2,278 |
Chapter Four
"Celestia! Celestia, good news!"
Princess Luna's voice echoed off the walls and high ceiling of the royal throne room as she rushed in to join her sister. Luna was levitating an opened scroll, which she eagerly handed to Celestia just as she reached the room's two thrones.
"What is it, dear sister?" Celestia asked calmly, levitating the scroll up to her face as Luna released it.
"Read the scroll!" Luna replied. "The governor of the Lunar Republic says he'd be honoured to host me, and that he's having everyone on his staff prepare for my arrival. He's ever so grateful for the return of the moon's blessing to his country and wants to make a personal apology for the rudeness of his ancestors."
"That's wonderful news, Luna! When do you wish to depart for the Lunar Republic?"
"As soon as possible – uh, the day after tomorrow, I think. That will give me time to inform the gracious governor of my plans and sort out some stuff over here before I go."
"When you are ready with a reply, have Wind Tamer send the governor a message hawk. Sadly, I don't think there are any dragons in the Lunar Republic, so our second-fastest communication method will have to do."
Luna sighed at her sister's mention of dragons. Before her thousand year banishment, message hawks had been the fastest method of communication, bar none, and dragons had been dangerous monsters that clever ponies stayed well away from.
"I do hope they get with the times soon," Celestia sighed. "Perhaps you could have a talk with the governor about that, if you can make time for it."
***
White Noise, Sibwashie and Sky Wave had ambled into Ponyville as the sun was setting over the mountains behind the Everfree Forest. They'd walked there directly from Hoofington, something that had taken them the entire day, with very few breaks along the way. Needless to say, White Noise was dead on his hooves and desperately needed to lie down.
"What a nice little town this is," Sky Wave said. "The buildings are so colourful and cottagey. It's such a shame that it's right on the edge of that creepy forest."
The travellers were still a fair distance away from the centre of town when they came across the first ponies they would see in Ponyville.
"Oh, look at that," Sky Wave whispered to her companions, pointing at the two ponies. "Some hard-working folk still working in their garden at this hour – I wonder what they're plant– oh my!"
"No Ditzy," came an exasperated voice from the first pony, an orange mare. "You can't grow carrots faster by burying food with their seeds. Seeds cannot eat."
"But aren't they just like eggs?" asked the orange pony's companion, a grey pegasus, as she dropped another muffin into the hole she and her friend were planting in. "Plant eggs, I mean. Like, don't plants come out of seeds in the same way chickens come out of eggs? And what if they're hungry when they get out? Plants don't have mommies to feed them, you know."
"Plants do not – oh, hello," said the irritated orange pony, noticing her and Ditzy's three new spectators and changing her tone considerably. "I don't think I've seen you ponies before."
"We're travellers, passing through on our way to Port Anchor," White Noise replied, offering a hoof. "I'm White Noise, this is Sky Wave and that's Sibwashie. Pleasure to meet you, Ms..."
"Carrot Top."
"My name's Ditzy Doo! Why do you have such a funny-looking coat, Mr Sibwa– Sibwa– Sibyouhaveafunnynametoo?"
Sibwashie smiled at the pegasus. Normally, he might have been offended by such a remark, but there was something in Ditzy Doo's cheerful tone of voice that prevented him from harbouring even the slightest resentment for her.
"I could say the same thing about your coat and name, Ms Doo
What people see as normal and strange varies, this much is true."
"Oh! You're a zebra like Zecora! You talk all sing-song, just like she does! And your coat looks like hers too, all striped and stuff. Oh wow this is so exciting!"
Ditzy broke into a ridiculous grin at this point, and the three newcomers saw her pupils move in opposite directions – one looking up, and the other looking down.
"You'll have to forgive Ditzy," whispered Carrot Top. "She's differently-wired from most ponies, and she's had a rather rough time lately as well."
"You bet I have, CT!" Ditzy Doo blurted out, having heard her friend's every carefully-concealed word. "I used to work at the Ponyville post office, but the other day they kicked me out because they said my cutie mark wasn't enough like a cutie mark a mailmare should have. I told them all about bubble wrap and how wonderful it is, but they didn't agree. Which is actually good because I don't think my cutie mark is about bubble wrap, I mean that would be silly. I think it comes from my bubbly personality, or at least that's what my parents told me when I got it which bythewayisaninterestingstoryitallstartedwhen..."
Ditzy kept on talking, her voice getting faster and softer, until she was rapidly moving her mouth without any words coming out of it.
"I used to work at the post office too, Ditzy," Sky said sadly.
Ditzy looked up at Sky Wave, her misaligned eyes lighting up.
"But apparently a ribbon isn't mail-related enough for those snobby ponies," Sky continued, motioning to her flank with a hoof. "I guess you could tie your mail up with a ribbon, but I didn't think of that at the time..."
"It's not fair!" wailed Ditzy, suddenly audible again.
White Noise cleared his throat and interjected with a word to Carrot Top, before the conversation got too depressing: "Could you perhaps point us towards an inn? It's getting late, and we're going to need somewhere to sleep tonight."
"There's a nice one just over there," Carrot Top replied, motioning towards a white and brown wooden building with a thatch roof just down the road. "It's cheap, and I've heard that the rooms are clean and the service is decent. It's also your only choice – Ponyville doesn't get enough ponies passing through to need more than one inn."
"Thank you Ms Carrot Top, that should do nicely," thanked White Noise gracefully, motioning to Sibwashie and Sky to tell them it was time to go. "We'd best be going to book our rooms. Thanks again for the help, and good luck with your gardening."
The five new acquaintances bade farewell to each other, and as White Noise and his companions headed for the inn, they heard Carrot Top tell Ditzy that gardening wasn't her strong suit.
***
The following morning, Sky Wave awoke to the sound of pebbles knocking against the window of her second story room in Ponyville's single inn. Clink. Clink. Clink.
Rubbing her eyes, Sky slid out of bed and looked out the window. A grey face with mismatched yellow eyes smiled sheepishly back at her, and she heard a low whistle as a bunch of stones fell from the pegasus's hooves.
"Ditzy?" Sky asked sleepily, pulling the window open.
Ditzy tapped the side of her head a few times, her eyes coming further into alignment with each successive tap. Once they looked normal, she donned a serious expression and opened her mouth to let out a flood of words.
"I remember yesterday when we met you said you lost your job at the post office just like I did because of the same reason and I was wondering if you could help me find something else to do I tried gardening with Carrot Top but she said I'm no good and I don't really know what else I can do and you seem to be alright and you look like a smart pony and..."
"Alright! Alright, I'll help you, Ditzy," Sky cried, bracing herself against the torrent of words that threatened to sweep her away. "I'd be happy to help out a fellow former-mailmare."
"You would?" Ditzy replied, her eyes starting to dislocate as her smile threatened to do the same to her jaw. "Oh thankyouthankyouthankyou!"
Ditzy flew through the window and tackled Sky to the ground with a very dangerous hug, fortunately not breaking any of the inn's furniture in the process.
Ohmigosh I wish she wasn't so strong, thought Sky, as her breath went out of her under the force of Ditzy's hug.
***
"Good morning boss! Ponyville Dragonfire Delivery operative Spaug at your service!"
The green dragon snapped a claw to her forehead in a salute, and White Noise nodded appreciatively. Spaug was a few years older than Turquoise, and even though she nearly too tall to walk through the doors in Ponyville without stooping, she made a fine employee.
"Glad to see you so eager," White Noise began. "As I said in the letter I sent you a few days ago, we're going to be opening up the Ponyville branch of Dragonfire Delivery today, so you won't have to hang around in the Post Office anymore. I trust you're prepared for your promotion to store manager?"
"Yes sir!" she replied. "I started preparing the shop as soon as I got the letter. I've stocked the shelves, dusted the whole place from top to bottom, organized the storeroom and given the sign a fresh coat of paint. All the shop needs is your approval."
"Excellent!" replied White Noise, already levitating his second "Yay! We're Open/Sorry, We're Closed" out of his saddlebag. "Judging by your performance in the past, I trust that that is exactly right."
With Spaug's capable claws at the helm, Dragonfire Delivery's Ponyville branch's opening day went off very smoothly. The dragoness handled every customer who came in with grace and politeness, never losing her cool with even the most exasperating ones. She was the oldest dragon White Noise had in his employ, and her résumé indicated her experience in a number of previous service industry jobs.
Spaug was doing such a great job that White Noise had become very bored sitting in the shop and watching her handle customers even better than he could.
In his boredom, White got to thinking about something the Ponyville innkeeper had told him when he'd asked about the town. The librarian was apparently a student of Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, just like himself and was said to keep a very extensive library.
White Noise had perused every book on dragons, Dragonia and dragonfire he'd been able to find in the Canterlot and Fillydelphia libraries, but that wasn't saying much. Dragons were not, as a rule, very active writers – most seemed happy to take dictation.
An avid reader and book collector living in close proximity to the Everfree forest may own some rare books on monsters, thought White Noise. And dragons are kinda like monsters... although I wouldn't say that out loud in my present company.
"I'm going to go see if I can find something at the library, Spaug," said White Noise. "Keep up the good work while I'm out."
"Yes sir!" Spaug replied enthusiastically.
***
"Okay, so let's start with your cutie mark," began Sky Wave, giving Ditzy a serious look. "Bubbles. What special talent does that give a pony?"
"My mom and dad said that the bubbles were for my bubbly personality!" replied Ditzy enthusiastically. "They said I'm always smiling and happy and fun to be around, but I really don't know why anypony wouldn't always be all of those things! If I wasn't happy, I might get sad!"
Sky gave Ditzy a blank stare.
"No offense, Ditzy," she said, "but I don't think that 'having a bubbly personality' counts as a special talent. I'm sure your talent is something a little more concrete."
Sky put a hoof to her chin and contemplated bubbles, soon losing herself in thought. Ditzy tried to follow her example, but the pretty shapes of the clouds kept distracting her.
"Are you sure, Sky? Everypony always says I've got a bubbly personality – they use those exact words all the time and everything it's a little weird."
Sky smirked and let out a long, knowledge-laden sigh.
"Ditzy," she began. "My cutie mark is a ribbon. That ribbon represents me – it flows gracefully in the wind, just like I do when I dance. My friend White Noise, his cutie mark is a speech bubble, because he helps ponies talk to each other. Princess Celestia's cutie mark is a sun because she raises the sun, not for her 'sunny disposition'. I'm sure your special talent has something to do with actual bubbles – it can't be some weird metaphor."
Ditzy looked perplexed at this, but went back to thinking. Sky followed suit.
"Ah-hah!" Sky said at last. "Got it! Have you ever tried... cart washing?"
"No, I haven't ever done that!" Ditzy said in response, smiling widely. "Maybe it's my special talent!"
"It could be – there are a lot of bubbles in cart washing."
***
Sibwashie strolled aimlessly through the town, feeling quite bored. Both of his friends had found things to do, and now he was alone, with a whole day to hang around in Ponyville and nothing to occupy it. With a deep sigh, he headed a first shop he came across, hoping that he would find something worth buying, or somepony to talk to.
"Welcome to Sugarcube Corner!" said a cheery voice, belonging to a pink earth pony with a poofy mane. "What would you – GASP!"
Sibwashie looked around frantically as the pink pony gasped and leaped into the air. Were they being attacked? Was the roof about to fall in and crush them both? Did he have something on his face?
"I've never seen you before!" she exclaimed, landing back behind the counter. "And you're a zebra! This is so exciting I'm so excited! Why, I'm so excited I could just THROW A PARTY but actually I can't do that because Mr and Mrs Cake are out of town today and they left me to watch the shop all day long and I have to prove to them that I'm responsible and I promised not to throw any parties while they were out! So instead I'll just say 'Hello! I'm Pinkie Pie, who are you?'"
Pinkie blinked. Sibwashie blinked. This mare was crazier than that grey pegasus he'd met the day before!
"Hello! I'm Pinkie Pie, who are you?" Pinkie said, speaking slower than before.
"I call myself Sibwashie -
Student of the art of diploma-cy," Sibwashie replied, reusing his slightly awkward greeting rhyme from Hoofington.
"Ooh... so you like talking to ponies and zebras and buffalos and other people?" said Pinkie. "That's so super-duper – you get to talk all the time! I love talking!"
I guessed, thought Sibwashie, smiling outwardly.
Pinkie Pie launched off into a speech about... something, and Sibwashie sat quietly and listened, nodding his head every so often. Just as Pinkie was getting into her opinion of bendy straws, Sibwashie heard another voice, coming from the shop's entrance.
"«Never in my time here in Ponyville, did I expect to see another of my kind
Young one, please tell me your name and your quest, if you wouldn't mind.»"
Sibwashie's smile widened as the words of his native tongue reached his ears – not the stilted, mispronounced words of an inexperienced speaker like White Noise, but the rhythmic, natural tones of one who had been speaking his language longer than even he had. He turned to Zecora and bowed his head in respect for his elder, as was the custom among zebras.
"«Good mother, I thank you, you have warmed my heart
A zebra must not, from his own herd, be so long apart.»
"«The name my father gave me is Sibwashie, and my quest is this:
To see that relations between peoples are not of hatred, but of bliss,»" Sibwashie replied, comfortably slipping back into his own language.
Pinkie raised a quizzical eyebrow as the zebras continued to talk in their language. She'd made up languages before – it had been a popular party game back home, as her parents thought that if they were going to have a party-pony for a daughter, she may as well play party games that stretched her brain. In any case, the language the zebras were speaking sounded nothing like anything she'd ever made up, so she decided against spouting off gibberish at the two. Also, a little thought in the back of her mind told her it might be considered rude, but that was only a secondary concern.
As Pinkie was contemplating what little she knew about Zebrican language, Zecora, now speaking Equestrian, approached her counter and asked her for a bag of sugarcubes.
"Flabbidy gabbidy gah!" Pinkie exclaimed cheerfully, grabbing a small bag with her mouth. "Shooben doogle wizzospotten."
"«I'm beginning to think that this pony is a little bit crazy,»" commented Sibwashie.
"«In Ponyville, the line between sane and insane is quite hazy,»" Zecora replied sagely.
***
A short while later, Ditzy and Sky had become the two newest employees of Ponyville Cart Washers, "the cleanest place in town!" Sky had suggested a new slogan shortly after being hired, but as a very temporary employee, her opinion didn't have much weight.
Ditzy Doo's first customer arrived soon. He was a wealthy, fit young stallion pulling a gleaming black cart with well-polished chrome wheels that shone in the sunlight. Ditzy got through the pleasantries alright, and soon the stallion had gone off to pay, leaving Ditzy to start washing his cart.
"Cart-washing is boring!" she complained about three minutes in. "Sky, if this is my special talent, then shouldn't I be enjoying it?"
Sky thought for a moment. She lived for her dancing, and her friends White Noise and Sibwashie had been driven far from their homes in their quests to realise the potential of their talents. White Noise in particular could jaw a pony's ear off for hours about dragonfire and radio and the nuances of different languages.
"Maybe you just aren't doing it right," Sky said. "Being good at something often comes from approaching it from a completely different angle to what most ponies do, and you haven't tried washing carts in any other way than how the boss told you to."
"Maybe you're right," said Ditzy, refocusing her eyes to show a thoughtful expression. "But I'm not sure how I can – ooh! I have an idea!"
Ditzy zoomed off into the sky with call of "I'll be right baaack". Sky smiled to herself. This may just work out nicely after all.
SPLASH!
Sky squealed as a torrent of water rained down on her.
"Sorry Sky," Ditzy apologized from above the cloud she'd just gone to fetch. "I should have warned you. Oh well! Pass me the soap, please!"
A dripping Sky Wave grabbed a box of soap off the ground and handed it to Ditzy, who dumped the whole box's contents into the cloud, which she then proceeded to jump up and down on repeatedly.
"I think it's working!" she shouted, her eyes defocusing with joy. "I found a new way to wash carts! I'm the best cart washer ev–"
CRACK-A-THOOM! A bolt of lightning shot out of the bottom of the cloud and singed the sleek black paint off of a spot in the cart's interior.
"My cart!" cried the wealthy stallion, having walked into view at exactly the wrong time.
"Oops..."
***
As he was walking towards the Ponyville library, White Noise realized how little he or anypony else knew about the dragon homeland. Dragons were not, as a rule, very sociable creatures, and although many parent dragons had been sending their children (some as mere eggs!) to live, learn and work in Equestria in recent years, their contact with ponies was still very minimal.
All these thoughts were buzzing around in White's head as he finally reached the green door in the large oak tree that he assumed led into the library. Hoping that they would somehow have a book that he could use, he pushed the door open and walked in.
"Oh, hello sir," said a meek, surprised voice as a purple head looked up from a thick book on a reading desk in the middle of the room. "I don't think I've seen you here before. How may I help you?"
White Noise's eyes widened – the lilac mane – the purple hair and eyes – the bookish demeanour. It couldn't be...
"Twilight Sparkle?" he asked, twisting his face quizzically.
"Uh, yes," she replied. "That's me."
"You actually left the library?!"
"Hey! What's that supposed to mean?"
Twilight narrowed her eyes at the strange white stallion.
"I'm White Noise," he said. "We were in General Magic together back in our first year at the School for Gifted Unicorns. Well, I don't think we ever really talked, but everypony knew about you, Twilight!"
"Oh, well I guess they would," she replied.
"I remember every time I went to the library, I'd see you sitting there with a book – just as you are now, I guess. We, uh, used to joke about how you probably had a sleeping bag behind the librarian's counter."
Twilight blushed, thinking back to all the times she'd woken up with her face in a book and a crick in her neck from falling asleep in the library. In retrospect, it might have been a nice idea to have kept a sleeping bag behind the librarian's counter, she thought.
"So what are you doing here in Ponyville?" White Noise asked snidely. "The idea of you leaving the school's grounds at all comes as quite shock."
"Princess Celestia sent me here on an important mission for Equestria!" Twilight announced proudly. "I have been tasked with studying the magic of friendship!"
White stifled a snicker, earning another glare from Twilight.
"Hey, who's there, Twilight?" asked a voice from the stairs. "He sounds... oh. Hey, White Noise."
A familiar baby dragon entered the library from above and smiled at White Noise.
"Spike! It's been a while," replied White, walking over to bump Spike's hand with his hoof. "How's life?"
"Same old, same old," Spike replied casually. "I see your business is going well! It's been cool having another dragon in town."
White Noise and Spike descended into conversation about Canterlot, their mutual friends from the school and White's business, while Twilight pretended to return to her reading. She decided that she would have to ask Spike how he made so many friends... perhaps she would be able to make a study of it...
***
Sky frowned. Ditzy frowned. The two pegasi lay prostrate on the grass, their manes tangled and their coats covered in tree sap.
"I wish we had had more success finding you a new job, Ditzy," Sky said morosely. "At least we tried."
"It's okay, Sky," Ditzy replied slowly, weariness winning over the usual cheer in her voice. "I guess I'm just not good at anything. I don't have a special talent – just these stupid bubbles. What do you even do with bubbles? You blow them and they pop..."
"Don't say that!" Sky exclaimed, startled by the depth of Ditzy's depression. "Everypony's good at something, Ditzy. And we'll find out what it is that you're good at, even if we have to get covered in tree sap again and again and again!"
The two ponies heard the clapping of tiny hooves some distance behind them. Mustering up the strength to turn her head, Sky looked in the direction of the sound and saw three little fillies wearing red capes, who shortly walked over to the pair.
The little yellow earth pony wearing a red bow was the first to speak.
"You're tryin' ta find what makes you special too?" she asked. "But you already have your cutie marks."
"Ditzy Doo does have her cutie mark, yes," Sky replied. "But she doesn't know what it means. When she got it, she thought it was because of her 'bubbly personality', but she has no idea what talent it represents."
"But don't you just know what you're supposed to do when you get your cutie mark?" asked another member of the group, an orange pegasus. "When Rainbow Dash got her cutie mark, she knew it was because she was supposed to be the fastest flyer in Equestria! Same with all her friends and their boring stories!"
Ditzy Doo hung her head in shame. Sky put a hoof on the sad pony's shoulder.
"Not always, girls," she said to the three little fillies. "Cutie marks are just pictures – they don't come with instruction manuals."
The little fillies looked downcast at this. Sky glanced at their flanks and noticed that none of the three had their cutie marks yet.
"Getting your cutie mark is still an amazing experience, even if you don't understand what it means until later," she explained. "The day this red ribbon appeared... it was the happiest day of my life..."
***
"So you really think that the... friendship... between ponies is a source of magic?" asked White Noise.
"There's so much more to it than that, but if you must put it that way, then yes," replied Twilight. "Friendship is magic."
The two unicorns were seated on two of Twilight's cushions, with Spike-made glasses of lemonade on the carpet next to them. White had forgotten all about any books he'd been looking for and was having an in-depth discussion about magic with Princess Celestia's star pupil: something he had never dreamt he'd do.
"Guess I've heard stranger things," White said. "It makes a kind of sense – one of those 'invisible bonds that link us all' types of things."
Twilight was enjoying this rare opportunity to talk to another gifted unicorn about magic. None of her earth pony or pegasi friends were really that interested in her greatest passion, and even Rarity didn't have an awful lot to say on the subject of magic. Twilight found herself wishing she'd made friends back at the school – having ponies to talk about her research with was very fulfilling.
"Believe me, I didn't believe it at first either," Twilight said. "I thought magic was all about studying and learning the tricks of previous masters and about understanding the intricate relationship between –"
Just as Twilight was about to recite the introductory paragraphs of the thesis she'd been planning, her train of thought was interrupted by the noisy entrance of three little fillies and two older ponies.
"Wow, Sky Wave," said Scootaloo. "That was actually a pretty okay story. Not as awesome as Rainbow Dash's cutie mark story, but I never knew air-dancing could be that extreme!"
Sky smiled modestly at the filly's compliment – the surprise on the faces of her friends indicated that to receive a compliment from Scootaloo was a rare honour, usually reserved for whoever this Rainbow Dash pony she kept talking about was.
"Hey, Sky," greeted White Noise. "Made some new friends, I see. Oh, hi again, Ditzy Doo."
"You have a talks bubble for a cutie mark," pointed out Apple Bloom. "Do you draw comic books?"
"No," replied White Noise bluntly, "but a lot of ponies ask me that."
Sweetie Belle walked over to Twilight to return a book while Apple Bloom launched into a barrage of questions about White Noise's cutie mark and special talent.
"...It's not really that exciting," concluded White, as he finished satisfying most of Apple Bloom's questions.
"Sure isn't," Scootaloo snorted.
While all this was going on, Ditzy Doo was sitting very quietly in a corner, looking down at the library's carpet with a big frown on her face.
"...sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith, Sweetie..."
Ditzy caught a snippet of Twilight's conversation with Sweetie Belle.
"...like when I was trying to escape a hydra near Froggy-Bottom Bog..."
"Did somepony say hydra?" Scootaloo asked excitedly, her ears perking up to listen to Twilight and Sweetie's conversation as well. "Those things are cool."
"Yeah, I'd like to hear about this 'hydra adventure' you had as well, Twilight," added White Noise. "I really enjoyed Monsters 101 back at school, and I've always wanted to see one with my own eyes."
Sighing a little, Twilight related the story of her adventure with the hydra and the Pinkie Pie-themed events that led up to it.
"So the moral of the story was that sometimes you just have to believe in things, even if you can't make sense of them," Twilight concluded.
"I can imagine that would be difficult for you, Twilight," White Noise retorted.
"The other moral is don't go near Froggy-Bottom Bog," Twilight continued, eyeing the Cutie Mark Crusaders. "It used to be perfectly safe, but it's become a hydra habitat in recent times. I think it's got something to do with the –"
"Hey, where's Ditzy?" asked Sweetie Belle, preventing Twilight from educating the others on the care and feeding of hydras.
The ponies in the library looked around to confirm that Ditzy Doo was indeed missing. She probably wandered off, thought Sky Wave. No big deal... she must have left when... oh!
"I think she left around when you mentioned that giant... bubble..."
I'm sure your special talent has something to do with actual bubbles – it can't be some weird metaphor.
Everypony's eyes widened in realisation and they all raced out the door, Cutie Mark Crusaders included.
"You girls stay here, or go home," commanded Twilight. "I already told you, Froggy-Bottom Bog is too dangerous."
"Aww man..."
Dejectedly, Scootaloo crossed "Cutie Mark Crusader Hydra Slayers" off her mental checklist, while the other two did the same with sighs of relief.
***
White Noise, Sky Wave and Twilight raced across the town in the direction of the Everfree Forest. Froggy-Bottom Bog lay on its outskirts and had for a long time been considered a safe place for ponies to visit, but in recent months, frightening creatures from the Everfree had been encroaching on the bog, rendering it a danger zone.
"Sibwashie, come, we need to get to Froggy-Bottom Bog! No time to explain!" Sky Wave yelled from her position in the sky, as she passed over the street Sibwashie had been nonchalantly walking across.
Without even taking the time to compose a situationally-appropriate couplet, Sibwashie leapt into action and galloped after Sky, swiftly overtaking her unicorn companions.
Sky arrived on the scene first. A grey blur shot towards her, and her heart sank. Maybe she found out what her cutie mark means? Sky hoped.
"Help! A hydra's chasing me!" shouted Ditzy Doo. "The bubbles didn't listen when I told them to defend me!"
Well, maybe not.
Sky chuckled, and then swallowed nervously.
"Get out of here!" she shouted. "I'll divert the hydra's attention, don't worry."
Shouting a further command to Sibwashie (who had just arrived) to do what he could to help, Sky dove towards the bog, where she caught sight of the meanest, largest hydra she had ever seen.
And it was already halfway out of the bog, bearing scowls of rage on its many faces. Most of its eyes watched the area of the sky where Ditzy had just been, but a few turned to face Sky, sending a shiver down her spin.
She had no idea how she was going to deal with the hydra, but thought that maybe it would go away if she stuck a hoof in its eye or something.
"FLY IN AND OUT!" shouted White Noise, his voice magically amplified. "TRY TO TIE ITS NECKS IN A KNOT!"
Probably a better idea than just trying to poke it, Sky thought, adjusting her trajectory to accommodate her new plan.
She flew down. The hydra's nearest head followed her.
She flew up. Another head followed her.
She flew towards the hydra's body. Both heads followed her.
She twisted around, flew around the heads and flew up towards a third head. She couldn't see what was happening.
She flew down, then left, then right, then in a zigzag pattern and finally flew away from the beast.
Sky put on a cocky expression and glanced back at the knot she'd made of the hydra – except there was no knot. The hydra's heads bobbed up and down on its untangled necks, and she could have sworn one of them smiled viciously at her.
"Aaah!" she gasped as one of the hydra's heads snuck up behind her.
Sky flinched just in time for the head to pass her by with a loud WHOOSH of wind, riling up her mane but otherwise leaving her unharmed. Before the hydra was able to snap at her again with another of its many mouths, Sky soared out of the hydra's reach and made her way towards White Noise.
"It's too smart for me to tie up!" she cried, hovering just above the hill White was standing on. "I've only managed to tire myself out; if I landed now, I don't think I'd be able to get up again."
White Noise nodded in acknowledgement as he wracked his brains. He had been told by a grizzled old adventurer once that a nimble pegasus could trick a hydra into tying its necks together with the correct sequence of movements, but the effectiveness of that trick relied on the hydra being young and unaccustomed to the number of heads it had – neither of which applied to this vicious and crafty beast.
"Tying the hydra in knots, that's got to be the solution!" White Noise shouted. "Maybe if we could cut off some of its heads to –"
"Stop right there," Sky Wave interrupted, resisting the urge to give him a hoof to the face. "Have you seen how many heads that thing has already?"
White Noise glanced over at the hydra. Three of its heads scanned the muddy ground, frantically looking for whatever creature had been poking and pinching at its sensitive underside. For a big guy, Sibwashie could be artfully stealthy when necessary. And he was also quite skilled at swamp-diving.
That buys some us some time, White Noise thought. Maybe enough time for it to forget about Ditzy Doo and get back into the swamp.
One of the hydra's heads swivelled around at just the right moment to catch Sibwashie surfacing above the mud. A roar and a lunge later, Sibwashie was out of the fight and the hydra had hopped out of the swamp entirely and was slowly ambling towards Ponyville.
Or not.
"Okay, if you can't make it tie itself up," White said to Sky, the panic showing I his voice, "then we need magic to tie it up ourselves – and while I'm not bad at tying bows on birthday presents, those necks are as thick as ponies! I don't have that kind of power!"
"I do."
Twilight Sparkle stood right behind the two ponies, her body lowered and tense. Her horn slowly lit up.
"Normally I'd tell you visitors off for provoking a hydra, but this one is far too large and dangerous to be so close to town, and it looks a little too interested in chasing Ditzy Doo."
Her horn glowed ever brighter as the tendrils of her magic reached out to touch and then surround the hydra. Twilight closed her eyes tightly in intense concentration as beads of sweat broke upon her brow.
"Aah! Help!" cried the voice of Ditzy Doo, coming from behind Twilight.
Ditzy zoomed past Sky Wave and White Noise, her goofy eyes wide with terror.
"I tried to go back to Ponyville but there's an evil dog-thing and he's chasing meeee!"
Sky and White watched in horror as a giant, three-headed dog – a cerberus – bounded out from behind a clump of trees and lunged at them. Frothy saliva hung from its mouths, and it had a look of blind rage in all six of its eyes. The creature was easily as tall as three ponies stacked on top of each other. White Noise had read about such creatures, but he hadn't been aware that they were able to grow to such enormous sizes.
The beast's multiple aggressive roars were deafening, growing ever more so as he closed in on the three ponies. But suddenly, they came to stop with three low whimpers.
"Gotcha," said Twilight, her voice straining just slightly as she held the hydra and the cerberus in her magic.
White and Sky opened their eyes to find that they had been holding onto each other for dear life. They quickly disentangled and stared in awe as Twilight levitated the giant dog – now closer in countenance to a scared puppy – towards the hydra's many heads.
Sweat poured down Twilight's face as she slowly tied the cerberus up in the hydra's necks. One neck, two necks, three necks...
"They're... resistant... to magic," she grimaced. "Not... sure... why. Can... get through the barriers... but... takes... a lot... of magic. Running... out..."
Twilight's horn glowed brighter than White Noise had ever seen a unicorn's horn glow before as she tied more and more of the hydra's necks together, but he could see she was close to breaking point.
"Just... need... a little more... power."
A crazy thought came into White Noise's head.
"I can help," he said.
White took a deep breath, and his horn started to glow. He looked at the hydra, and then back at Twilight. Magic tendrils extended from his horn and wrapped around the other unicorn, before shrinking to only cover her horn.
White was about to try something that'd he never heard of anypony doing before. He let out his breath, and severed his magic. All of it. His face contorted into a pained expression as his magic rushed out of his horn and into Twilight's.
The magic transfer held. With the extra surge of power pushing her just over the edge, Twilight's eyes glowed pure white as she quickly tied up the rest of the hydra's necks, making a neat cerberus bundle (nicely wrapped up in hydra gift paper). Twilight then flicked her neck dramatically and levitated the bundle up into the air.
She released her magic, and the hydra-cerberus package flew high into the air, reaching its maximum height halfway to the horizon and dipping down into the depths of the Everfree Forest.
Twilight collapsed from over-exertion, and tears leaked from White Noise's eyes. His horn appeared a shade darker than usual.
Sibwashie had emerged from the swamp by this time and stood next to Sky and a still-shaken-up Ditzy Doo, mouth agape in awe of the spectacular feat of magic that he had just witnessed.
"WOOHOO!" came a piercing cry, as Pinkie Pie appeared on the scene, seemingly out of nowhere. "This calls for a celebration!"
***
An hour or so later, Pinkie's party was in full swing.
Everypony in town bombarded Twilight with gratitude for saving Ponyville from the terrible wrath of the enormous hydra and its friend the gigantic Cerberus, which made her feel quite uncomfortable.
"These travellers helped too!" she insisted, desperately motioning towards Sibwashie, Sky Wave and White Noise.
The three travellers smiled politely at the townsfolk, who soon returned to swamping Twilight, leaving them to talk in peace.
"Are you sure your horn's okay?" Sky asked White. "It looks odd."
"That's because I gave Twilight my entire magic reserve back at the bog," replied White. "My magic will replenish itself in a day or two, but until then I just won't be able to do magic. It's an annoyance, but it's only temporary. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go get some punch... without levitating anything."
As White Noise ambled over to the punch bowl, his mind returned to something Twilight had told him on the way back to Ponyville.
"Beasts of that size have no reason to be so close to Ponyville," she had said. "When I talked about hydras in Froggy-Bottom Bog, I meant young ones: hydras that just get lost in the Everfree, or runts that get chased out of the bigger swamps. That one was certainly way out of the age range of 'young'. What's more, I know of the cerberusi – or is it cereberi? – who hide in dark caves in the forest's depths, but they seldom come out and definitely don't journey as far as the bog when they do."
"Maybe they just got lost?" he had replied. "I'm sure it happens to older hydras and cereberi as well."
"I was thinking that as well, but then I started using my magic on the hydra. As soon as I tried to move its first neck, I felt that... sense of disconnection you get when something has been enchanted to resist magic. It wasn't a very sophisticated enchantment, but it was there."
White Noise shuddered as he thought back to the magical resistance breaking course he had barely scraped through in school. Even the "not very sophisticated" enchantments would leave him with a massive headache.
So Twilight thinks that somepony was behind the attack, at least indirectly, White though as he looked to both sides, checking to see if other ponies were watching before dipping his muzzle into the punch bowl and taking a long drink. Not sure what anypony would have to gain from enchanting huge monsters and sending them to Froggy-Bottom Bog though.
***
In another, lonelier corner of the party, Ditzy Doo felt a hoof on her shoulder.
"Hey Ditzy," said Sky Wave kindly. "How's it going?"
Ditzy looked at the ground, too ashamed to make eye contact.
"I'm so sorry!" she bawled. "I nearly got everypony killed!"
"Don't say that!" Sky reprimanded. "It wasn't your fault that there was a hydra hiding in the bog! And besides, if I hadn't been so insistent about the meaning of your cutie mark..."
"Wait..." began Ditzy, as she brought her eyes into focus. "So, you're saying that you were wrong? That my cutie mark does mean what my parents told me it means?"
"Yeah... I guess," Sky admitted. "Okay fine. Yes. I'm sorry, I was wrong. Forgive me?"
"Well..."
Ditzy thought about it for a moment, before nodding her head and wrapping her forelegs around Sky. Sky smiled and returned Ditzy's hug.
"Ahem."
A gruff voice interrupted the two ponies, and they turned around to see a middle-aged brown pegasus stallion. He had a few days' worth of stubble on his muzzle and was wearing an expression that showed him to be feeling very sorry for himself.
"Mr Brown!" Ditzy exclaimed. "Uh... are you okay? …Sir?"
"Ditzy Doo, this is really embarrassing for me, but, uh," the brown stallion mumbled. "D'ya wanna have your old job back?"
Ditzy's eyes widened in shock, and her pupils lost their focus as her irises drifted in opposite directions.
"But I thought my cutie mark –"
"Yes, yes, that's still how it is," interrupted Ditzy's old boss. "But the thing of it is this: the Equestrian Postal Service cannot spare any more mailponies from anyplace else. The mailmare who was supposed to transfer here from Trottingham has been reassigned, and Ponyville doesn't have a mailpony right now. Folks are gettin' agitated."
"She'll take her job back," Sky offered coyly. "At double the salary!"
Mr Brown raised an eyebrow, and Sky immediately regretted her demand.
"Not my call to make. Ditzy, the offer to get your old job with your old pay back still stands. We'll make a plan to deal with the bureaucrats at headquarters."
Ditzy barely had to think before nodding her head vigorously and wrapping her "new" boss in a bone-crushing hug.
"Thankyouthankyouthankyou!" exclaimed Ditzy. "I can't wait to get back on the job! Back to my old route, with my old mail bags and my old breakfast muffin and my old..."
Sky smiled to herself as she trotted off to find her travelling companions. Ponyville had been full of excitement, and she'd made a number of great new friends, but she found herself hoping that the next stop she and the others made would be a little less eventful. If she ended up having to fight any more hydras, she would have to ask White Noise for a raise.
|
Ezn
|
997
| 5 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Long Distance
|
Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
|
complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-10-17T20:09:49+00:00
|
2013-01-13T21:19:06+00:00
| 2,590 |
Chapter Five
The town of Port Anchor was a quaint little place, populated mostly by sea-faring ponyfolk who jittered about uncomfortably in their little wooden houses and longed for the sea when they weren't out sailing. As such, the town's large docks were its busiest area.
Which wasn't to say that they were particularly busy. Equestria, by and large, was a very self-sufficient nation, largely because of its great size and the diversity of its climate. Large tracts of arable land provided more than enough food for the ponies living there, and beneath the fine soil, the ground was rich with precious metals and gems. Equestria had a cordial relationship with nearby countries and exported much of its excess produce, but the majority of that activity took place in the shipping district of Manehattan.
As such, the docks of Port Anchor were, at their busiest, not overly busy, and the vast majority of the ships there were Equestrian in origin. True to its name, the town was a place to anchor for a short time, should necessity demand it.
A shiny new ship, small enough to almost be called a boat but still very sea-worthy, sat to the side of one of the wooden harbours, docked on mooring lines. Large white letters across the ship's near side christened it Moonchaser. Its owner stood nearby, admiring her fine, week-old craft.
Ocean Glider, an indigo earth pony mare with a dark purple mane and a crashing wave for a cutiemark, believed very strongly that this ship was the best purchase she'd ever made. Having a ship of her own would finally allow her to start her transportation business and ferry ponies to and from the increasingly visited Lunar Republic.
Ocean wasn't a native Lunar Republican. Her parents, being the crazy old seadog ponies they were, had ensured that her birth coincided with a trip they had been taking, and she had been born in international waters, making her a "citizen of the world". As she'd spent most of her life on ships and boats, she felt that that status was quite appropriate and had never before considered acquiring Equestrian citizenship, or that of any other country.
Which made it very strange that she was, at that moment, considering the benefits of becoming a citizen of the Lunar Republic – or rather, the New Lunar Republic, as it would become once Princess Luna overcame the shackles of her oppressive sister and took her rightful place as ruler of the island kissed every night by her moon.
"'Moonchaser', eh?" said a gruff voice to Ocean Glider's side. "You one o' them Lun-arr Rep-ub-li-cans?"
"Well, no," she replied semi-truthfully, feeling flustered about the loss of her train of thought.
"Then why is ya boat called Moon-chase-ah?"
Ocean Glider turned to the speaker and found herself staring right at the slimy, yellow-toothed smile of an old and crusty grey sailorpony. His orange eyes narrowed, and a number of other sailorponies stepped into view just behind him.
"We don' take kindly ta desert-tahs," said the grey stallion, as his followers stepped closer to Ocean Glider. "Isn't Equestria good enough for ya? Is Princess Celestya ta old fer ya?"
"N-no," Ocean Glider stammered, as her aggressors stepped ever closer. "W-what do you want?"
The group's leader let out a low, raspy chuckle that made Ocean Glider dislike him further, something that was fast becoming nearly impossible to do. A dry tongue flicked over his yellow teeth, and he nodded towards Moonchaser.
"Torch it, boys," he commanded. "We ain't 'avin' no in-sub-ordy-nants in mah town. Not while Ah'm still breathin'."
Ocean watched in horror as the ponies under the unseemly stallion's command brandished wooden torches in their mouths, and the group's single unicorn lit up his horn with an orange glow.
There was a WHOOSH as the first of the mob's torches lit up, followed by many more as the unicorn's orange magic field stretched out further and further. Ocean's heart sank as the ponies in the mob turned towards her beautiful ship and readied their torches for throwing. A single word from their leader would light up her ship in a brilliant orange blaze.
"Stop!" she cried desperately. "You'll burn the harbour! You'll burn the rest of the boats too!"
"We're pro-fesh-ionals, lady," jeered the leader, raising his right foreleg theatrically. "Now lads, when mah hoof hits the wood, ya throw ya torches. Git ready."
The leader's foreleg reached the top of its arc. He stood frozen for a moment, before shooting Ocean a particularly nasty glare and slamming his hoof down.
SPLASH!
The sound of the leader's hoof hitting the wood was drowned out by a sudden massive downpour. Ocean squealed in surprise as she was thoroughly drenched, but noticed with glee that the same had happened to her aggressors – and to their torches.
The source of the downpour was a decently large cloud that had snuck above the group while nopony was watching – or, perhaps more accurately, had been snuck above the group while nopony was watching.
Something moved above the cloud and the pegasus responsible for it swooped down onto the harbour triumphantly and was joined by a white unicorn and large-framed zebra.
"Sorry to interrupt, but I think you ponies really need to find a safer way to celebrate maiden voyages," the pegasus said casually. "I'd suggest something that allows the ship to actually make the voyage afterwards."
The leader of the mob shot the newcomers a dirty look, his mood dampened almost to the same extent as his coat and mane. The less dedicated members of his mob had already wandered off, and he didn't have the energy or the will to start a fight with some crazy tourists.
"Sorry about getting you all wet like that," the unicorn of the group said to Ocean Glider, once the soaked mob had fully dispersed. "It was the best plan we could come up with on such short notice."
Ocean stood flabbergasted, her jaw hanging open. She hadn't moved from the spot she'd been rooted to when her three saviours made their perfectly timed entrance.
"Are you okay?"
***
A round of introductions and a torrent of gushing thanks later, Ocean Glider and her new friends sat down to eat on the deck of an old passenger ship that had been repurposed as a nautical-themed café. Ocean insisted on paying.
"Thanks again you guys," she said, hugging her towel closer to her body. "If you hadn't shown up just then –"
"– you just don't know what you would have done?" Sky Wave interrupted, finishing the sentence Ocean had already repeated at least one hundred times that night. "Don't worry about it. We just did what any decent pony would've done."
Ocean smiled and nodded, still feeling amazed at her good fortune.
"If you want to repay us, though," began White Noise, suddenly cottoning onto a great idea. "Then you could tell us what you're planning to do with that nice new boat. Perhaps you can help us out?"
Ocean nodded eagerly and launched into her business plan: "Moonchaser's gonna take ponies between here and the Lunar Republic! At the moment, there isn't a dedicated passenger liner that does that, and that's because, for centuries, only supply ships have been out that way. But that's all changing now, with Princess Luna's return and the renewed lunar magic she's brought with her. Ponies want to visit – or even immigrate to – the Lunar Republic, and my little ship's going to help them do just that."
White Noise thought back to the geography he had learnt at school. The Lunar Republic was a small island in the Radiant Sea, situated roughly halfway between Equestria and Laung, the continent Zebrica and Dragonia formed the west-most outcropping of.
"Have you started operating?" he asked Ocean.
"Not yet, no," she replied. "Moonchaser hasn't even been on her maiden voyage. In fact, she only left the dry dock the other day."
White Noise's eyes flashed with realised opportunity.
"I think I may have a proposition for you, Ocean Glider. If you're willing to go a little further than the Lunar Republic for your inaugural trip, then my friends and I would be happy to be your first customers."
"How much further?"
"Laung."
"That's double the distance!"
"Sure is."
"I guess I do owe you guys."
After the promise of handsome payment – which she negotiated down slightly because of her unending gratitude to White Noise's group – Ocean agreed to take the ponies and zebra to Laung, provided they were happy to stop off in the Lunar Republic on the way.
"You aren't actually my first customers, you know," she snarked. "I meant it when I said there were ponies who really wanted to get over to the Lunar Republic."
The group laughed and talked until their food came, and then talked and laughed some more while they ate.
"Yeah, we've had some pretty interesting experiences since we left from Fillydelphia," said White Noise. "You've gotta hear about what happened in Bridleburg, the last town we stopped in."
"Eccentric ponies put us and themselves in terrible danger
Compared to any other town, Bridleburg will always prove stranger," added Sibwashie cryptically.
The travellers told Ocean all about their journey thus far, and she interjected with her own little stories about her life at sea and all the places she had been to and the amazing things she had seen. Eventually, the question that had been gnawing at her mind since White Noise first started telling her about the group's adventures couldn't stay beneath the surface any longer.
"Sorry if I'm being nosy," she began. "But, uh, why are you going to Laung, anyway? I know you've been setting up outlets of your shops, but you haven't come here to set one up, and you haven't been to Manehattan or Trottingham either. Are you taking your business international?"
White Noise exchanged glances with Sibwashie and Sky.
"That's a distinct possibility, but it's not the main focus of this journey," he began. "Sibwashie would like to visit his home again, and I'm glad to accompany him there, but that's not the main focus either. The main point of our journey is this: I am going to find out how dragonfire actually works."
White Noise took a deep breath and let it out slowly before continuing.
"To do that, I'm going back to the source, to ask the masters themselves. This journey's final destination is Dragonia, where I hope to use my academic credentials to gain an audience with the leading dragon experts in dragonfire and its associated magic."
Ocean Glider's eyes widened, and she marvelled at the group's bravery. Although Equestria–Dragonia relations had improved greatly in the past few centuries and more and more dragons were sending their young to live, study and work in Equestria, the idea of actually going into Dragonia was a frightening one. Not all dragons were educated, or benevolent creatures, and beyond that, the country's dry climate and rocky, mountainous terrain made not at all ideal for ponies to travel through.
White Noise went on to explain the dilemma he felt was inherent in setting up a business based around a kind of magic he didn't fully understand and how dangerous it was to trust his livelihood to it. However, his impassioned speech about the quest for knowledge was soon interrupted.
"I heard ya say ya was headin' fir Dragonia," said a grave, old voice. "I would be a leetle more careful about ideeas like that if I was yew."
The voice belonged to an old brown earth pony sailor with a well-worn blue ship-captain's hat on his head and an anchor on his flank. A low, hurried whisper from Ocean Glider named him Salty Seadog, a mostly retired sailor who loved telling folks stories about his glory days. The stories weren't always true, but Ocean assured her new friends that they were always entertaining and promptly offered the old stallion an empty seat at their table.
"Thank ya kindly, ma'am," he said politely, his smile revealing an incomplete set of yellow teeth, but making Ocean feel completely different from last time she had seen such a smile. "Now let me tell you folks about dragons..."
"I know you kids are used to yir home-grown helpful baby dragons that write all yir letters and clean yir house, but them's completely different beasts from the dragons livin' in Dragonia. I tell ya, there's a reason why them dragons aren't allowed in Equestria, and I seen that wit' mah own two eyes..."
«-oOo-»
The fine ship HMPC (Her Majesty Princess Celestia's) Duskbreaker was looking very much the worse for wear as it rounded Dragonia's cliffy coastline. It had just been through a terrible storm, and although nopony had been lost to the raging winds or turbulent waves, the sails were in tatters and there were great holes in the mast and deck.
As the ship's sails were all but gone, its only form of propulsion was its secondary rowing system, with the help of some limited unicorn magic. To row the enormous ship, however, took the horsepower of nearly the entire crew and travelling too far by such an energy-intensive method was bound to tire out the ship's crew to the point where they would be unable to go on long before reaching Equestria.
The ship's captain, a prudent fellow named Calmwaters, decided that the ship would have to anchor somewhere soon, if it hoped to avoid being caught in another storm (the fury of which it would surely not escape in one piece). The crew, their hearts eager for Equestria, agreed with their captain's decision and assured him that, once the ship landed, they would be able to fix it in no time at all.
Alas, the high and foreboding cliffs of Dragonia prevented the ship from anchoring anywhere for another day, and then the day after that, and the day after that. The crew were beginning to get despondent – when would they be able to land?
Finally, on the fourth day, the Duskbreaker sailed into a small bay, and the sailorponies alighted on the bay's tiny beach.
Beyond the beach was a thin clump of trees, and beyond that, the cliffs rose just as high as any in Dragonia. The crew did not have much space, but they would have enough wood to keep a fire burning at night and to mount basic repairs on their vessel.
A younger, more impulsive Salty Seadog was among the sailorponies. This being one of his earliest voyages, he was but a lowly cabin boy, whose main task was cooking remotely edible food out of whatever plantlife he could find. The crew didn't rush for seconds of his grass-and-leaf stew, but they ate it quietly and made no complaints.
With the crew rested and fed, the ship's repairs progressed rapidly. A great big tree was chopped down and hewn into a new mast, and the holes in the ship's deck and hull were patched up with the wood that remained. New sails were woven from a combination of the remains of the old sails, some leaves and bits of bark cleverly molded and woven by unicorn magic and one or two extra hammocks.
Salty had even managed to make himself useful by supplanting the ship's dwindling food supplies with stores of the edible leaves he managed to find.
By nightfall on the third day, work on the ship was complete, and Captain Calmwaters announced that the Duskbreaker was seaworthy once more. It was decided that the crew would go to sleep early that night, awaken the following morning with renewed strength and sail out of the bay, Equestria-bound.
***
Around midnight, the ponies were awakened by a terrible screeching, unlike any noise they had ever heard before. All at once, they opened their eyes to a terrifying sight.
For above the bay, just lower than the tops of the foreboding cliffs, there flew a great blue dragon, twisting and writhing in fury. The bone-chilling screech tore through the air once more, and the sailorponies realised that it was the dragon that made been making the awful sound.
Salty remembered Captain Calmwaters assuring everypony that they were too low down to be bothered by any dragons – apparently dragons felt uncomfortable close to sea-level, or above smooth, level ground.
All of a sudden, the dragon turned around in the air and plummeted towards the sailorponies, making even the most hardened veterans of the waves among them scream like little fillies and run around madly.
Caught up in the moment's frightening atmosphere, young Salty picked a direction and ran, closing his eyes for fear of seeing the dragon hurt him or one of his shipmates. It was on this day that Salty would learn never to run away from something with your eyes closed, as a protruding tree branch shortly caught one of his forelegs and sent him tumbling down in a heap.
Lying on his back and feeling quite dazed, Salty could only watch as the great blue dragon swept over him, ruffling his coat and mane with the gust of wind that came with. For a split second, Salty saw the dragon's eyes. They were pure white and appeared to be dripping with some foul liquid. Certainly not tears.
Salty felt a sense of warmth against his back as the dragon breathed out a column of fire, setting the trees behind him alight. This proved to be the exact motivation the little cabinpony needed to get back on his hooves and gallop out of the small forest, trying to ignore the screams of ponies less successful than he.
A loud shout ripped through the air, and Salty recognized the dignified voice of Captain Calmwaters, not even quivering with fear in the face of this immense danger.
"Dragon!" he bellowed. "Why do you attack us? What have we done to bring your anger down upon us?"
Calmwaters was barely able to jump out of the way in time to miss the blast of fire that shot his way the instant he finished talking. Salty could see that the hairs on his one side had become singed, and his magnificent blue hat had been blackened on one side.
Seeing the wisdom in beating a hasty retreat, Calmwaters turned tail and rushed towards the ship, ordering the remains of his crew to do the same.
Salty and the others galloped faster than they had ever galloped before, and once on the ship, the anchor was drawn up at a rate that suggested it was made out of balloons rather than heavy iron.
Losing interest in the pony-kebabs he had made, the great dragon turned his attention to the escaping ship (its crew rowed with a vigour that might've carried them to Equestria faster than the strongest of gales, had they kept it up). With another mighty screech, the dragon blasted the ship with his fire.
And that might have been the end of Captain Calmwaters, Salty Seadog and the rest of the crew, had it not been for the ingenuity of Flighty the unicorn, who turned her magic on the dragon's powerful breath of fire and turned into a regular powerful breath, of air.
The Duskbreaker shot out of the bay, skipping across the water like a stone – or so it felt. The rowing crew emerged from below and cheered, while the dragon could be heard screeching impotently into the night before fading from sight, utterly uninterested in following the ponies any further.
Flighty was given a commendation for her bravery and resourcefulness, followed by a stern lecture for shirking her duties – she had been on deck watching the dragon, instead of down below, helping the other unicorns telekinetically row the unoccupied oars.
There were a lot of unoccupied oars in the bowels of the Duskbreaker, for Calmwaters had lost a third of his crew to the dragon's fire that night.
«-oOo-»
"So don't yew tell me that dragons ah ha'mless," Salty concluded, staring wistfully out to sea as his tale came to an end. "We did nothing to tha' devil, but 'e still burnt a third o' us to a crisp. Even afta Cap'n Calmwaters tried reasonin' with him!"
Salty's audience nodded their heads gravely, none of them knowing how to respond to the story they'd just been told. White Noise thought about all of his dragon friends, and a knot formed in his stomach. Even Melvin, sour little git that he was, couldn't possibly be capable of such atrocities.
A waiterpony brought the group their after-dinner teas and coffees, and Salty Seadog yawned and bade them all a good night.
"Heed mah words!" he warned. "Don' go pokin' around in the bus'ness o' dragons!"
"We'll remember what you've told us, don't worry," White Noise said, mustering a semi-earnest tone out of his extremely boggled mind.
As Salty hobbled off, the group turned to their drinks, dipping their muzzles into the cups and lapping up the warm liquid.
"Hey," said Ocean Glider, suddenly noticing something. "White Noise, why are you drinking like that? Don't unicorns usually..."
"Yes, they do," he replied flatly. "Usually."
It was then that Ocean noticed something odd about the white unicorn's horn. Most unicorn horns were colours that matched their coats exactly, but White's horn was a strange, greyish off-white that looked out of place against his pale coat.
"Ponyville," he told her. "Can't believe we never even got to that part of the story. Anyway, the short version is this: I do usually have magic and use my magic like a regular unicorn, but after I had to sever my supply – you wouldn't understand what that means, but don't worry – to help fight a hydra, I haven't been able to do magic."
Ocean Glider gasped. "Is it... permanent?"
"No, no, it's nothing that serious. My magic supply just has to build up again, and that takes a while. A while longer than I thought it would, but seeing as nopony's ever severed their entire magic supply in one go, I guess I'm in uncharted waters here."
"It's rather irritating," interjected Sky. "White's magic would've really come in handy back in Bridleburg."
White Noise put a hoof to his chin and thought for a moment, before adding: "It's okay, I can feel my magic slowly returning, but I just haven't felt able to use it yet."
"Well that's a relief," Ocean sighed, her mind turning to other thoughts now that her worries were put at rest. "You guys fought a hydra?"
"Well," began Sky, looking down at her teacup modestly. "Twilight was the one who actually defeated it..."
***
Two days after the heroic rescue of the Moonchaser and her owner, the fine ship was fully prepped for the voyage ahead. The three travellers lined up on the dock with four of Ocean's other customers, all of them eager to mount the ship and set sail for foreign lands.
"I can't believe we're finally about to leave Equestria," said White Noise to his companions. "I've read a lot about the world out there in books, but I've never actually been to any of the places I studied in school."
"Same here," agreed Sky Wave. "I'd barely ever been out of Fillydelphia before you guys got me to come on this crazy trip, and I'm a pegasus pony! I can fly anywhere I want to and have travelled so little, while Sibwashie has no wings and has been further across the world than the two of us combined!"
Sibwashie chuckled softly to himself.
"I love discovering other cultures and seeing new places
But there's comfort to be found in familiar faces.
"My talent and my calling has brought me here and will send me all over the world
But sometimes I wish to lie beside the fires of home, sleeping with my tail curled."
The two ponies looked at the zebra with wide eyes, nodding slowly and smiling as they noticed a small tear in the corner of one of his eyes. It could have just been a trick of the light, or a speck of dust, but White and Sky were certain that Sibwashie was overjoyed to be on his way home.
"All aboard!" came a shout from the deck of the ship, jarring the three friends out of their shared moment of contemplation.
The passengers ascended the boarding plank in single file and alighted on the ship's recently swabbed deck (so clean that it shone in the sunlight). The single sail hung proudly from its mast, bearing a lovingly painted image of the moon (a very up-to-date image, as it lacked the traditional mare's head shadow).
The Moonchaser's captain, a proud and haughty-looking Ocean Glider wearing a smart blue hat, stood in front of her newly hired crew and welcomed her passengers aboard graciously, shaking each one's hoof and looking them all directly in the eyes, confidence exuding from her every pore.
"We now set sail for the Lunar Republic," she announced. "As you may have already heard, her majesty Princess Luna departed for the island herself not three days ago. She has stated that her visit shall be a casual, very temporary affair, but I hope you will join me in hoping that the Princess sees the beauty and potential of the Lunar Republic, and extends her services to... renew it."
Ocean Glider's speech concluded, and the ship's passengers stomped their hooves politely against the deck, some more vigorously than others. White Noise felt a queasiness rising in his stomach.
|
Ezn
|
997
| 6 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Long Distance
|
Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
|
complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-08-09T06:34:52+00:00
|
2013-01-13T20:55:41+00:00
| 2,525 |
Chapter Six
White Noise woke up with a start, banging his head against the bed above him.
"Ow..."
The throbbing pain from the new bump on his head was further compounded by a sudden blinding headache. White let out a small whimper and curled into a ball under his sheets. Why did I have to take the bottom bunk? he thought.
Rubbing his head with a hoof and trying to focus his mind, White Noise tried to remember what had caused him to wake up so suddenly. It had been a dream – he'd had a very strange dream, and it had become very frightening at the end.
White Noise tried to remember his dream, but only small snatches of it came to mind. Standing on a mountain, with the world stretched out beneath me. Shouting into the wind... it changed colour as my voice got louder and softer. Darkness... a voice... a scream!
Sweat broke on White's forehead as he decided against trying to recall the end of his dream. He found himself envying Daisy Dreams, an earth pony who had mastered lucid dreaming and been the subject of an in-depth study conducted by some of his old classmates and friends. Her dreams were always controlled and she had the psychological resilience of a rock.
"Good morning White Noise, I trust you slept well
I dozed like a log, and dreamt sweetly for a spell," Sibwashie announced from above, as he peered down at White.
Sibwashie smiled sympathetically as he saw White Noise rubbing his head and sighing.
***
The sun was still low in the east as White Noise and Sky Wave hobbled onto deck, with a steadier-hoofed Sibwashie following just behind them. White blinked the sunlight out of his eyes and turned his head to the side.
"Uurgh..." moaned Sky. "Why does the ground... keep... moving? It's making me –"
Her words were cut off as Sky raced to the edge of the deck and stuck her head over the side. White Noise felt something rising up in his own stomach, but fought to keep it down.
Once she had finished emptying her guts, Sky suddenly got an idea that she felt she could kick herself for not coming up with earlier. She smiled as she extended her wings and lifted off the deck, feeling better as soon as her hooves left the swaying floor.
White glared at her enviously. "Remember to flap, now."
Being a clever pegasus, Sky knew that the strong wind that was propelling the Moonchaser would be able carry her without any need for flapping, so she merely extended her wings. She gained a little bit of speed and flew up and around, doing a loop-de-loop in the air.
"Pegasus show-offs," muttered a member of the crew, who was busy mopping the deck.
Watching Sky twist and turn in the air, White was reminded of his nausea, and quickly turned to Sibwashie in an effort to take his mind off it again.
"So, Sibwashie, excited to get home soon?" he said, envying the zebra's nonchalant attitude to the swaying deck beneath them. "Where exactly is your village? In relation to this 'Molaro' we're going to be landing at, anyway?"
The zebra smiled, and replied after a period of thought:
"As soon as I could walk, I learnt how to swim and how to sail
The coastal town of Molaro, conveniently, is from whence I hail.
"I remember the seaweed dinners and the long boating trips
My parents' warm, wooden hut, and my brother's dinnertime quips.
"They won't be expecting me, not for a while – I'll catch them by surprise and unaware
But they'll be overjoyed to see me, and homesickness is a burden I'll no longer bear."
"Wow, that sounds great!" White Noise replied, his eyes wide with anticipation. "I can't wait to meet them! In fact, I'd better practice my greeting. Hold on, let me think about this for a bit..."
White furrowed his brow in a look of intense concentration, while Sibwashie waited patiently to hear his friend's latest attempt at Zebrican.
White Noise cleared his throat and began to speak, slowly and deliberately:
"«Hail and well met, family of my friend
I hope you don't resent the time that he will spend»
"«Helping me out with the dragons and their fire
I'd rather not earn any of your ire.»"
Sibwashie nodded his head enthusiastically while cringing on the inside. Sibwashie had to give White points for effort, even if his rhythm was quite off.
"Hey, look at that!" Sky shouted from above. "The island's coming into view!"
White and Sibwashie rushed over to the side of the ship and peered out at the small chunk of land that had just appeared. The island was relatively flat, and looked very green and full of life, even from a distance.
***
"Welcome to the Lunar Republic!" Ocean Glider announced proudly, as the ship pulled up to a shiny new harbour some time later. "We'll be disembarking in the recently founded town of Port Welcome, where I hope you will all feel... 'welcome'!"
Sky Wave rolled her eyes and landed back on deck as the Moonchaser came to a halt and let down its anchor. She was loathe to admit it, but her wings were actually quite tired after keeping her up in the air for so long. At least I've managed to keep my lunch down, she thought.
"Ohthankgoodness," White Noise cried, galloping off the ship with a wobble in his step as soon as the board was lowered.
Once the ship's other passengers had departed, White, Sky and Sibwashie were able to have a chat with Ocean on her own.
"Thanks for the wonderful trip," said White, trying not to think about his lingering sea sickness. "When will we be departing for Zebrica?"
"I'll just need two days to stock up on supplies and take care of some business over here," Ocean replied. "Maybe find some other passengers for the trip too. If you guys can hang in there until then, that'd be great."
"I'm sure that we will find something to occupy our time in this place
Go ahead and do what you need to; don't make it a race," said Sibwashie.
"Great! I don't have to get started with all that just yet though, so I'll show you guys around town. Port Welcome's gonna be a pretty important place someday..."
***
As Ocean Glider had said, Port Welcome was a very new town, having only been founded a few months earlier. It had been established to handle the sudden influx of traders, tourists and new citizens who had come to find adventure and riches in the newly prosperous Lunar Republic.
"Ever since the return of Her Majesty Princess Luna," Ocean began, slipping into a pattern of speech that suggested a history as a tour guide, "total agricultural production in the Lunar Republic has increased by approximately twenty-one percent, and is set to get even bigger. Plants just get bigger and grow faster here, and it's all thanks to the fertilizing magic of the Princess's moon – which this island just happens to be in the perfect spot to receive."
White Noise lifted a hoof to his chin. He knew that there was definitely something about this island that made the plants grow better than they did in Equestria, and he was starting to believe the moon-magic story, despite its inherent absurdity. He remembered that astronomy and studies of the moon were never Princess Celestia's favourite subjects and that their tiny departments received very little interest or funding. He regretted not showing interest in either of the fields; some grounding in astronomy would have helped him understand a little bit more about the nature of the magic at work in the Lunar Republic.
The four equines trotted out of the harbour area and into Port Welcome proper. They trod on newly placed paving stone, past wooden houses so new that they were practically still wet with paint, and into what would eventually become the town square.
"As you can see," said Ocean, using a foreleg to gesture towards the buildings around them, "this town square isn't finished yet. Directly ahead of you, where those short walls of stone now stand, is where a clock tower will eventually watch over Port Welcome. Also note the empty storefronts: they're on sale by the town planning committee for low, low prices. Any forward-thinking entrepreneur should scoop one up now, before they're all gone."
White Noise got the hint and made a mental note to visit the town planning committee later on that day.
"Uh, Ocean?" asked Sky Wave. "Sorry if I'm interrupting or anything, but is there anywhere a pony can get something to eat around here? I'm pretty hungry."
"In keeping with its theme of hospitality to newcomers, Port Welcome hosts a number of fine eateries, each catering to a different taste," replied Ocean, not missing a beat. "My personal favourite is 'The Giant Salad': a brand new local startup with a distinctly Lunar flavour and very generous portions."
Sky Wave's eyes lit up at the prospect of "very generous portions", and she insisted that the group make their way to the eatery for a big lunch post-haste.
"Sounds fine to me," White Noise said, realising how hungry he had become after eating very little on the voyage, due to fear of throwing it all up again.
"The sun is in the middle of the sky, signalling the time for a meal
It would be good to pay it heed and fill up our stomachs, I feel," agreed Sibwashie.
***
The Giant Salad was a very new business, and it showed in the inexperience of its waitering staff. The group had had to wait rather a long time for their food, but all the irritation that went with that was forgotten upon the meal's eventual arrival.
"Woah," said Sky, her eyes growing wide as she desperately tried not to drool. "They don't call it The Giant Salad for nothing. This is going to be sooo gooood..."
The other three thanked their waitering staff and made light conversation while picking at their food politely. They ignored Sky's ravenous chewing, and tried not to grimace as she stuck her head right into her salad, splattering her pink face with lettuce and tomatoes.
"You seem to know quite a lot about the Lunar Republic," remarked White Noise, once Ocean Glider finished detailing the pros and cons of the island's various beachfronts. "How did you learn it all?"
"To be honest with you," Ocean Glider replied. "It was all required reading for my side-job as a canvasser for the New Lunar Republic."
White nearly choked on an olive, but managed to squeeze out a polite smile (or rather, a polite grimace).
"Now, I know folks are a little antsy about our movement, and I don't expect you or anyone else to support us just because, but there's been a lot of misinformation going around. I'd really like to clear some of that up."
"I'm listening," White replied, having successfully swallowed the olive.
Sibwashie's ears perked up, indicating that he too was interested in what Ocean had to say for her "movement".
"A lot of the misconception that ponies have about the NLR stems from their basic misunderstanding about what a republic is and how our government works," Ocean began, slipping back into tour-guide-slash-lecturer mode. "The Lunar Republic doesn't have an immortal and benevolent princess to watch over it, so we have to make do with regular ponies. And I don't know about you, but I'm disinclined to put as much trust in a mortal pony with selfish desires as in a wise and ancient princess. So that's why we have a little thing called 'democracy'."
Sibwashie grew more interested. In his studies of different cultures and governmental systems, he'd heard of this "democracy" (adapted from the Goatish words "demoroc", meaning "people" and "racseey", meaning "rule of law"), but he had never studied any country that practiced it in very much depth.
"What that means is that we get the ponies living here to vote for who should lead them. To prevent any one governor – that's what we call an 'elected prince or princess' – from becoming too powerful or too complacent, we hold new voting sessions every three years, and each governor is only allowed to be governor for a total of six years at most."
White Noise nodded in understanding. "So it's a lot like how we decide on mayors, but on a larger scale."
"Exactly. Now, because of that scale, it's very difficult for one pony to get him or herself elected into governorship on their own, as the first few candidates soon found out when the Lunar Republic started out. A successful election campaign that captures the votes of ponies requires the kind of careful planning and thorough advertising that can only be achieved by a group of ponies working towards a common goal. And that's where the 'party' system comes from."
A loud burp distracted Ocean from her speech for a moment, and she turned to look at a blushing Sky Wave.
"That was some good salad," she said meekly, gazing at her empty bowl with half-lidded eyes.
Ocean Glider smiled dismissively and returned to her speech. "A party is a group of ponies that bands behind a single candidate for governor whose views they support and tries to get that governor elected. The New Lunar Republic is one such party – it is a peaceful political organization, and not a rebel movement, as some might think."
"Then what about that 'Celestial tyranny' business?" asked White, narrowing his eyes accusingly. "I take offense at that kind of slander being aimed at my Princess."
Ocean rubbed her mane with a hoof and smiled awkwardly. "Some of our PR officers – especially those working in the Equestrian Outreach program – are perhaps a little overzealous. Although their claims are not completely unfounded: Princess Celestia could probably have handled the Nightmare Moon situation a little better."
White Noise considered starting an argument with Ocean about the princess's conduct a thousand years before, but decided the better of it. Over the previous year, the subject had become a hideously divisive issue among enough ponies for White to want to steer clear of it.
Sibwashie's face crinkled up in concern, and he opened his mouth to speak:
"Your explanation has been well-worded; a soothing balm to my fears
But there's something I do not understand; a problem gumming up the gears.
"As a student of nations and peoples, I've studied this political system
But all other cases suggest that a party's country binds them.
"If this is true, then why does your New Lunar Republic escape its confines?
Why search Equestria for votes, when none from there can even queue in your lines?"
"A good question," replied Ocean, taking a moment to decode Sibwashie's poetry. "The New Lunar Republic is a new party that believes in and aims to create, well, a 'new Lunar Republic'. This small country has seen a huge influx of ponies over the past year or so, and many of them came here after being told about the island's agricultural wonders. At the moment, citizenship is easy to come by, and with citizenship, comes voting rights."
"That's pretty smart," noted Sky Wave, joining in the conversation now that she was finished eating.
***
After their lunch, the travellers bade farewell to Ocean Glider, who had to go attend to various matters in town. Their tour over, the two ponies and zebra decided to head over to the town planning office with White Noise, to have a look at the price of shops in the square.
"I really think it's time to expand Dragonfire Delivery outside of Equestria," said White Noise as the three walked down the road. "The whole point of dragonfire is its ability to send information over vast distances! Restraining it to operating within a single country would be an awful waste."
"But who are you going to get to run the store?" asked Sky Wave. "As far as I know, the only dragons outside of Dragonia are the young ones in Equestria, and they're mostly there for the School for Gifted Unicorns."
"I've thought about that a lot, and I think I'm going to do a little redistribution back home," White replied. "Melvin's sudden and refreshing change of attitude has earned him a job somewhere more important than Hoofington. I was going to just give him my newest employee – one of Spike's friends, whom I hired via correspondence in Bridleburg – as a shop assistant, but that's kind of a stupid idea now that I think about it, and not really fair to my other employees."
"Hmm," pondered Sky. "So Melvin will work in the new store here, and your new employee will be able to cut his teeth in the slow-moving Hoofington."
"Exactly. It's a rather brilliant solution, if I do say so myself."
Activity on the other side of the street caught Sibwashie's attention, and he turned his head to see two stallions arguing over something.
"I ain't hirin' nopony what supports them pushy NLR politicians," said the first stallion, a stout middle-aged yellow earth pony with a thinning mane of brown hair. "Them's gonna ruin mah country wit' their highfalutin ideas about Princess Luna and buildin' cities. Mah great-grandfather left Equestria because 'e wanted –"
"Yes, well, I'm allowed to support whatever political party I want to," interrupted the other stallion, a young brown pegasus with a full-bodied blonde mane. "And it's not like you have any choice but to hire me! In case you haven't noticed, there aren't a lot of pegasi in this town, and your crops are going to get awfully dry unless somepony gives them a little rain every now and then."
"It's a matter o' principle!" the older stallion roared.
"It's a matter of you have no choice and should pipe down and give me a job!"
Sibwashie had always been a rather large zebra and not because of gluttony or sloth. In school he had always been the largest in his class, and he had excelled at the traditional Zebrican sport of Quaggball because of it. When he discovered his special talent, however, he began to use his great physical stature for a rather different purpose.
The arguing stallions fell silent as a large shadow loomed over them and a disapproving striped face gave them each a long stare.
"From what I understand of your fight, the two of you could work together for mutual benefit
But the younger has a radical political affiliation, and the elder, he will not hear of it.
"Consider for a moment, if you will, the practicalities of your situation as things stand
The younger needs money, and the elder needs a pegasus to water and nourish his land.
"Although you disagree on matters of state, it may be necessary to put such things aside
For until other pegasi move into town, each other's presence you must simply abide," Sibwashie said.
The younger stallion pumped a hoof in the air and sneered at the older one. A glare from Sibwashie quickly wiped the expression off his face, as the diplomat prepared for another speech.
"Young one, your disrespect towards an elder marks you as a stallion of poor breeding
Cease this foolishness, lest your conduct reflect on the NLR in a manner most misleading.
"This old farmer has lived many more years than you, and is wiser for having seen more
He respects the ideals of his ancestors, and the land to which both he and you swore.
"I would recommend that he hires you to keep his farm alive, yes
But for your insolence, whatever pay you asked for, he should offer you less."
The two stallion stood dumbfounded for a moment, before nodding their heads slowly and turning to each other. Their right forelegs lifted off the ground and went into a shake, and their quarrel was resolved.
Sibwashie smiled and bowed to the two stallions before returning to White and Sky, who had long since stopped their conversation to watch the scene unfold.
"Very nice," said a voice from behind Sibwashie. "An excellent show of diplomacy – and the rhyming just tops it all off with a delightful layer of finesse!"
Sibwashie spun around to face the speaker: a charcoal-coated earth pony mare a few years older than him. Her yellow-and-orange-streaked mane was done up in a tight bun on top of her head, and she glanced at the zebra with keen, clever eyes from behind a pair of round-framed glasses.
"My name is Vibrant Pattern," she said to him, her tone brisk and business-like. "After seeing that skilled display of mediation performed by a stranger in an unfamiliar environment, and to ponies he doesn't even know, I feel I have gauged enough of your character to know that you can be of great use to me. I have a task for you, sir, and should you choose to accept it, I would be eternally grateful. A large monetary reward would be in order."
"I will listen to what you have to say
Perhaps we can enrich one another this day," replied Sibwashie.
"Sky and I are going to go on ahead to the town planning office," called White Noise, anticipating that Sibwashie's conversation with the long-winded mare could take some time. "We'll meet back here later."
Sibwashie nodded to White, and then turned his attention back to Vibrant Pattern.
"Excellent!" she said. "Now, my husband and I are new to the Lunar Republic, and have been living on a farm. Coming from a background where we knew little of agriculture, we have nonetheless planted our first crops quite successfully. And that would be the end of it, if not for the terrible problem that plagues us."
The mare took a breath, steeled her resolve, and continued.
"You see, sir, for the past week, a terrible great beast of a dragon has been burning our crops! He comes every night to destroy a part of our fields, and leaves again once the morning comes. My husband and I have tried to chase him away, but to no avail – we have even come close to being burnt ourselves many a time!"
Sibwashie raised an eyebrow at the mare's story. The behaviour of this dragon really wasn't consistent with the profiles of any dragons he had ever met - but it did fit in eerily well with Salty Seadog's cautionary tale.
"Nopony is willing to help us: they are all too afraid of the dragon to chase him away, be it by coercion or by force. Now, my husband and I are both modern ponies, and have no desire to hunt the dragon like a common animal – we have both dealt with a good few kind and generous dragons, and know that they are just as much people as we ponies and zebras are. This is where you come in."
Sibwashie's eyes widened as he realized what he was being asked to do.
"We'd very much like it if you could talk our dragon into going away and not burning our fields anymore."
***
The sun was low in the western half of the sky as Sky and White exited the Port Welcome town planning office with smiles on their faces and a neatly rolled-up deed in White's saddlebags. It had taken a fair amount of paperwork and discussion, but overall, White Noise found that buying a stand in Port Welcome had been a good deal easier than in Fillydelphia, or even Ponyville.
"Now I just need to send Melvin a message about his promotion," White Noise told Sky Wave. "I'll include a cheque for travel costs – he'll have to hire a pony to get him to the docks, because those stubby little legs aren't going to cut it."
"When do dragons' wings come in?" Sky asked.
"I think it takes about a century – that's what Smooth Scales told me, anyway. The only dragons that can fly are a good deal older than you or I. A little unfair, perhaps, but then they go on to live with wings for thousands of years, so I guess that makes it better."
The ponies walked in silence until they came to the shop White Noise had been looking for – Birdtamer's Hawk Messenger Service, a modest little store with a majestic hawk painted on its sign.
White entered the store and produced a pre-prepared letter from his saddlebag, using his mouth rather awkwardly, and sorely missing his telekinesis (not for the first time).
"To Melvin the dragon of Hoofington, Equestria, please," he asked politely, depositing the letter on the counter.
The clerk locked eyes with White for a moment, and then took the letter and his bits. Moments later, a hawk was released into the air with White's message tied around its ankle.
White Noise left the shop to rejoin Sky Wave, sighing inwardly as he did so. Little did the clerk know that the letter he had just sent would likely put him out of work within a few months, or a year at most. White felt sorry for the clerk, and for whoever owned the store, but he knew he couldn't stand in the way of progress; especially not progress he had personally worked so hard for.
***
"She wants you to do WHAT?!" Sky exclaimed.
The day had given way to night, and she and White had met up with Sibwashie in the town square, before going off to book rooms at the first inn they came across. The hay and oats dinner the inn had provided had been quite delicious, and the ponies and zebra were lounging in their chairs around the dinner table, feeling stuffed after their second (or in Sky's case, third) courses.
"It seems like a good idea to me," White Noise added. "In case you've forgotten Sky, I originally hired Sibwashie for basically the same reason. We're going to be negotiating with dragons in Dragonia to discover the secrets of dragonfire magic, remember?"
"Yes, but there's a difference between academic dragons who discuss magic with academic unicorns, and crazy dragons who burn up ponies' farms for no good reason! This sounds like a really stupid idea to me."
"Every pony, zebra, dragon and any other creature you could care to name
Has reasons behind their actions, although they may not all think the same," Sibwashie told Sky, at which she rolled her eyes.
"Do this if you must, but I really don't think it's going to end well," she replied.
"Oh don't be such a wet blanket, Sky!" chided White Noise. "We're going to go with Sibwashie tomorrow and offer him moral support, and that 'we' includes you, whether you like it or not."
Sky pouted, but stiffly nodded her head.
***
Using his mouth, White Noise angled the toothpaste tube towards his toothbrush and gave it a gentle squeeze. Toothpaste exited the tube and landed neatly on the brush's bristles. White put the tube down and smiled to himself – a perfect spread on the second try: he was slowly getting better at doing things without magic.
The toothbrush was held by an earth pony bathroom fixture which White had dubbed the "brush vice", even though it probably had another, more delicate name. As he angled his head down and moved his teeth over brush's toothpaste-filled bristles, he tried to remember how he'd managed to do this sort of thing during the first few years of his life, before his magic had manifested.
Like a lot of gifted unicorns, White had been able to use magic earlier than most, which made him the talk of the magic kindergarten back in East Canterlot. He'd only been able to do a little very weak telekinesis and some funny voice-changing spells (which he now found little use for outside of parties), but the earth ponies and other unicorns in his class would watch in awe when his horn so much as lit up.
That just means I'm really at a disadvantage without my magic, he thought. I hope it comes back soon.
White's horn sparked, and a tiny glowing particle descended from his horn and into the basin in front of him.
Woah.
Closing his eyes in concentration, White focused on his horn. Was his magic back? He could feel something there. The bottoms of his hooves tingled as if he was standing in a very shallow puddle. White tried to lift his toothbrush.
A flashing pain cut through White's skull, and his thoughts became foregrounded with a violent shade of red. His horn sparked again, made a faint clicking sound, and then fell dormant. White could feel that his magic was finally building itself back up to noticeable levels, but decided against trying it again for a few more days.
He returned to brushing his teeth.
***
Vibrant Pattern and her husband owned a small farm just a few miles outside of Port Welcome. She met with Sibwashie and his friends in the afternoon of the following day, and the four of them took a horse-drawn carriage to the farm, with the ladies riding in the back while the men pulled.
"This... is probably... good for me..." wheezed White Noise as the farm finally came into view. "I'm sure... I'll be a lot fitter... once this trip... is over..."
The ponies pulled up to the farmhouse in the late afternoon, and were greeted by Vibrant's husband, a nervous and retiring warm-coloured stallion who introduced himself as Yellow Orange.
"Hello dear," Vibrant said, running up to her husband and giving him an affectionate nuzzle. "In order of appearance, these are: White Noise, Sibwashie and Sky Wave. Sibwashie is the zebra I told you about; the one who's going to solve all of our problems! His friends are here for moral support."
"I'm glad to hear that," Yellow replied, before turning to address Sibwashie. "My wife and I really need this farm to work. If you can talk the dragon away, we will be forever in your debt."
"I can only promise to try, as I know little of this dragon's nature or his circumstance
But I shall do my best to get through to him, now that I have been given this chance," Sibwashie replied gravely.
The night was not due for another few hours, and the ponies and zebra wiled away the afternoon with chatter, all of them trying to ignore the tension and gravity of the situation. The travellers told Vibrant and Yellow of their travels, and Vibrant and Yellow told the travellers of their lives on the farm, and where they had come from.
"Yellow and I are very much city ponies, funnily enough," Vibrant told them. "Yellow is one of the Manehattan Oranges, and I was born to the Manehattan Patterns. Our families have lived in that city for generations, and most of our relatives still do."
"But the times have been tough on us," Yellow Orange continued. "I ran a specialist orange and orange-related products store in Bronklyn, until a combination of bad luck, dishonest employees and the fickle Manehattan market put it out of business. Seeing as my special talent is basically 'oranges' – like many members of my family – I was at a loss about what to do after the disastrous failure of my business."
"We considered starting another shop in Fillydelphia, or even an orange farm somewhere out in the country, but we didn't have enough money! We were forced to live – or should I say leech – off the kindness of our respective families until we found out about the Lunar Republic."
"I remember it as if it were yesterday. I was walking home after another unsuccessful day of job searching when a kind pony noticed my unhappiness and asked me what was wrong. I broke down and poured out all of my sorrows on that kind pony, who listened quietly until I was done. When I could speak no more, he offered me flier."
"Yellow stormed into the apartment with that flier in his mouth: he was so excited! I read it over and over, not believing what I was seeing. We knew then that we would be able to start a farm in the Lunar Republic for less than we could ever have imagined, and reap the benefits of the island's magic! It was the happiest day of our lives..."
The city-turned-farmer-ponies talked at length about the wonders of their new country and their beautiful farm, and about all the plans they had for it. At that time, they had only planted cornstalks and orange trees, but they planned to expand into other forms of produce – and then there was the thought of starting a family.
All the excited talk served only to make Sibwashie nervous. He was confident in his skills as a diplomat, but he had to admit that he had never used them on a dragon. I've never even used them on a baby dragon, let alone a full-grown, crazy one! he thought.
Thankfully, the talk of the farm eventually let up, largely thanks to White Noise's intervention.
"Did we tell you that Sky Wave's an aerial dancer?" he asked them.
"Oh, how delightful!" Vibrant replied, bringing her hooves up to her face in glee. "Please do give us a demonstration, dear – I do so enjoy a good dance!"
"Well, I haven't really –"
A discreet jab in the ribs from White cut Sky's excuses short, and she gave in showed the ponies a part of her newest routine, swearing them all (but Vibrant Pattern especially) to secrecy after the fact.
Eventually, the sunset cast its red rays over the land, and Sibwashie was led to the orange orchard, with instructions to gallop over to the cornfield, should the dragon decide to burn that instead. His friends offered to accompany him, but he politely declined. Any interference from factors he didn't have complete control of could jeopardise the whole operation.
***
The evening breeze broke against Sibwashie's stiff mohawk as he waited for the dragon to make an appearance. He watched the small leaves of the young orange trees in the "orchard" sway in the wind, and stared out into the evening sky. The stars had not yet come out, and there was no hint of a dragon. If one lay in wait nearby, he was doing a good job of keeping himself concealed.
Many of the trees had been newly planted, he noted, and there were scorch marks on the ground not far from where he stood.
Sibwashie waited for what felt like an eternity, his mind empty of thoughts as he focused only on watching the sky. He knew what he would say; he had practiced his lines over and over in his head, and had analysed every little detail of his words to ensure its effectiveness. All he could do was continue waiting, and try not to be driven mad by it.
Eventually, his sensitive ears caught the soft sound of leathery wings flapping above him. Sibwashie looked up at the dragon, and the dragon looked down at Sibwashie.
The dragon's tar-black scales made his shape difficult to discern over the backdrop of the night sky. All that Sibwashie could make out clearly was his dark purple belly, and his eyes. The eyes of the black dragon glowed red with menace, making it impossible for Sibwashie to read any real emotion in them.
However, the eyes were not white, and neither were they stained with fluid. This brought Sibwashie some small relief; relief that was immediately cancelled out by rows of the dragon's long, sharp teeth, so white that they glistened in the moonlight.
Sibwashie cleared his throat, and in a loud, clear voice, began to speak:
"Oh dragon lord, thou who hast lived my lifetime a hundred times over and more
For your kind ear and wise understanding, I stand beneath you and implore.
"I speak for the humble and diligent ponies making a living of the fruits of this land
For there is much about thine conduct that neither I nor they understand.
"Why, pray tell, dost thou roast more of their farm each night?
Couldst thou bring the cause of thy actions to light?
"For if thy reasoning is flawless, and thy intentions noble and good
I shall make them vacate this land, and even agree that they should."
The dragon continued to stare down at Sibwashie, his expression unchanged.
|
Ezn
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997
| 7 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-08-09T07:02:06+00:00
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2013-01-11T08:10:17+00:00
| 2,099 |
Chapter Seven
The dragon blinked its glowing red eyes. Sibwashie wondered to himself if the old-fashioned Equestrian had been too much. And I spent all that time researching it!
FWOOM.
A great column of flame from the dragon's mouth snapped Sibwashie out of his thoughts in an instant. He jumped out of the way of the dragon's fire just in time to avoid being roasted alive and fell onto his side. Sibwashie's eyes widened in fear, and he stared at the dragon in awe.
It wasn't long before the great black beast had set the pitiful orange orchard ablaze and was able to turn his attention to the frightened zebra beneath him. Sibwashie scrambled to his hooves and broke into a gallop, tearing the ground as he tried to escape the dragon's fire.
There was a flash, and suddenly orange flames licked the grass in front of Sibwashie. He reared up and almost lose his balance as he desperately twisted and tried to run in another direction.
FWOOM. The dragon breathed out another torrent of fire, this time to Sibwashie's side, singing his fur. He darted away from the fire and glanced all around him, looking for a clear path.
There was fire to his left, to his right, in front of him and behind him. To his horror, Sibwashie realised that the dragon was trapping him in a ring of fire. It was not a complete ring, but the gaps were closing fast.
In a sudden moment of intense clarity, Sibwashie felt the ground under his hooves. It was soft and supple. Moving faster than he ever had before, he used his front hooves to dig up a mound of dirt, which he then kneaded into a compact ball.
Okay, he thought, I only have one shot at this.
The traditional Zebrican sport of Quagball was played by two teams of seven players each. Each team had to attempt to launch a ball through a hoop angled at forty-five degrees and mounted on a pole two metres above the ground. It was a contact sport. Players needed to be quick-thinking, quick-moving and to have powerful, accurate hindlegs.
Sibwashie turned around, lowered his stature and scooped the dirt-ball up with his hind legs before bucking it straight into the dragon's mouth.
Yes!
Coughing and spluttering filled the air as the dragon choked on the dirt. The great black beast flailed around in the air and made gurgling noises with his throat before departing, his wings unstable and his upward course haphazard. He was done bothering farms for the night.
There was still – as Sibwashie realized after a brief moment of elation – the problem of the fire. He thought back to the stories Grassfire had told him and his companions back in Hoofington. The traditional plainspony way of dealing with rampant fires was to ensure that the fire ran out of fuel by carefully burning everything around it.
Sibwashie raced out of the incomplete ring of fire and rushed towards one of the few unburnt trees in the area. Using his jaw, he snapped off a dead branch, which he lit up at one of the numerous fires that burned around the orchard.
Sibwashie burnt a patch of grass, and then stomped the fire out with a hoof. He winced at the pain and hoped that his friends would see the blaze and come to his aid.
***
The other ponies were sitting around an outdoor table behind the farmhouse, twiddling their hooves and ineffectually trying not to appear nervous to each other. White Noise whistled in a jaunty and tuneless fashion, Sky Wave focused intently on her hooves, and Vibrant Pattern and Yellow Orange just sat and stared into space, absently holding onto each other.
"I wonder if your friend has made any progress," said Vibrant Pattern. "I do hope that his mediation abilities are good enough show that dragon the error of his ways."
"I'm sure he's doing gre–"
White Noise's words stuck in his throat as he noticed a column of black smoke rising up beyond the farmhouse.
"We've gotta go help," he blurted out, already on his hooves. "There's smoke."
The others sniffed the air and looked up to see the spiralling smoke. They gasped in shock, and within seconds the four ponies were galloping for the burning orange orchard.
On the way there, White Noise spied a small lake, which he directed his telekinesis at. Spluttering sparks from his horn and a sharp pain in his head reminded him that his magic was still recovering. How much longer?! he thought. I really need my magic now!
Sky Wave took to the air and soared towards the source of smoke, coughing and wincing as it got in her mouth and eyes. Despite this, she managed to get to what was left of the orchard long before the any of the grounded ponies. She saw Sibwashie brandishing a fiery branch in his mouth and stepping gingerly on his hooves.
"Sibwashie!" she cried. "I'm here, and the others are on their way! What should we do?"
"I'm glad to see you have arrived so swiftly to help me extinguish this fire
The others can help me starve it, but from you a raincloud I require!" Sibwashie shouted up to her.
Sky marvelled at her zebra friend's ability to rhyme his words even in the most stressful of circumstances and zoomed off to find a raincloud as he had instructed.
She remembered noticing what a clear day it had been. It was a clear night as well, and there was nary a cloud in sight. Except... Sky had to squint to see it, but she noticed a very faint, wispy cloud off in the distance. It would hardly put out any big fires, but it would have to do.
White Noise and the farming couple finally reached the burning orchard just as Sky raced off to fetch the wispy cloud. Sibwashie caught sight of the three and beckoned them to him, where he instructed them to grab branches off trees and follow his lead.
Like Sky before him, White marvelled at Sibwashie's rhyming skills before heading off to follow his instructions. Given a few more years, the zebra would likely become a better speaker of Equestrian than he was.
Sibwashie assessed the situation around him. Sky was nowhere in sight – likely still looking for a cloud. White was wincing in pain as he stuck his hoof onto a small patch of grass he had just lit on fire. Yellow and Vibrant had their sticks in their mouths and were heading towards a patch of fire to light them.
Although his hooves were throbbing in pain, Sibwashie ran to help White Noise put out his patch of fire. Between the two of them, they made short work of the grass around the burning orange tree, and soon the fire starved and went out.
They were about to move onto the next patch of fire when they heard a horrified scream. Sibwashie spun around to see Vibrant Pattern lying on her side, almost entirely encircled by fire. Without thinking he twice, he dashed to her rescue.
"My... hooves... they hurt," she whispered as Sibwashie appeared at her side. "Dropped my... branch..."
The great zebra knelt down and manuevered himself under Vibrant Pattern's body. He was able to lift the mare up quite easily, due to her light frame. But the added weight drove his hooves further into the ground than before, and he teared up with pain as tried to leave the ring of fire.
There was still an opening in the ring, and Sibwashie managed to get himself halfway through it before collapsing. He shucked Vibrant over his head and out of harm's way as he fell, but he himself landed directly in between two walls of flame, which crept ever closer.
Sibwashie tried to scramble up, but his hooves hurt too much. The fire was getting closer, and he didn't know if he had the energy to escape. If he wasn't able to, Vibrant would likely be killed by the encroaching flames.
Sibwashie heard wings flapping over him. He strained his neck upwards to see Sky. She was carrying a wispy cloud between her forehooves, which she now squeezed and strained for all she was worth.
A few drops of water left the cloud, but it was not enough to quench the raging fires. Sky squeezed the cloud until there was nothing left, and then looked around frantically for another. Clouds were the only way she could help Sibwashie, as he was far too big for her to be able to carry out of harm's way.
Sky spied a cloud in the corner of her vision and dashed off to fetch it just as White Noise came running up to were Sibwashie lay. He was bigger than Sky, but still not big enough enough to carry the enormous zebra. He supposed he would be able to do it with Yellow's help, but he could see that Yellow was already busy carrying his wife off.
White closed his eyes and let his thoughts extend to his horn. The magic that had built up within it was not large in quantity, but it was something. It certainly felt like there was more than there had been when he had tried to levitate the water in the lake. Perhaps there's just enough to perform that spell, he thought. The one I've barely ever used and shouldn't even know.
White Noise focused his magic, and surely enough, his horn began to glow for the first time in nearly a week. The air above his head crackled, and a body of white foam appeared. It was arranged in neat letters that read "Help has arrived".
The foam sign bobbed in the air for a moment before White shot it at the fire to Sibwashie's left. The foam mowed down the fire, reducing the ring by half. There was still, however, the wall of fire to Sibwashie's right to contend with.
As White was contemplating whether he'd be able to push Sibwashie out of the way or not, Sky suddenly appeared with a great big black storm cloud. She made short work of the rest of Sibwashie's ring of fire and managed to put out the few other remaining fires as well.
"My mother always told me that weather pegasi tend to leave extra storm cloud lying around for emergencies," she explained. "Turns out she was right."
White smiled at her before losing his footing and passing out, as an overdue feeling of pain tore through his temples.
***
The Lunar Republic's governor, a middle-aged stallion named Grain Harvest, paced across the boardroom impatiently as he and his advisors, associates and assistants awaited Princess Luna's arrival. The princess had arrived in the capital the previous evening, and would be holding her first meeting with the ruling elite of the Lunar Republic in over one thousand years this morning.
She was already ten minutes late. But she was also an alicorn princess capable of raising and lowering the moon, which made up for it.
At long last, the boardroom doors burst opened and the room filled with black smoke. The governor and his many cronies coughed and spluttered as Princess Luna entered the room.
"We have ARRIVED!" boomed the Princess's powerful voice. "We doth EXTEND our warmest GREETINGS to GOVERNOR Grain Harvest and her FINE associates, and we WOULDST like to EXPRESS our sincerest HOPE that this visit shall PROVE beneficial to both OUR country and thine."
"Somepony needs to teach her Equestrian," whispered one of the governor's assistants to another.
"W-welcome y-your highness!" squeaked Grain Harvest as he shakily edged over to Luna to kiss her outstretched hoof. "I hope you have enjoyed your stay in on our humble little island so far."
"YES!" replied Luna, still not adjusting to an indoor voice. "We have been MOST pleased at the fine treatment WE have received at the HOOVES of your diligent staff! We have also enjoyed the FRUITS of this fine land's many FARMS and GARDENS. We do not REGRET our gift to you ALL those centuries AGO."
The governor and his associates smiled wearily. Although Princess Luna was at least a thousand years older than any of them and many times more powerful and accomplished, they couldn't help but feel a little sorry for her. For all her royal posturing, she seemed to be little more than an immensely powerful lost child.
"And we thank you for that, Princess," said Grain Harvest. "It is the magic of your moon that is taking this country from poor island state to a major contender in the global scene."
Luna looked around the room. There were too many ponies there – too many judging eyes and ears. She had something important to talk about, but she knew she wouldn't be able to mention it to so many, many ponies.
"COME Governor, we wish to HAVE words with THEE. Lead us to a place WHERE we can conduct a PRIVATE conversation, between us and thou ALONE."
***
Vibrant Pattern and Yellow Orange prepared the guest room for the three travellers. Although Sibwashie had not succeeded in negotiating with the dragon, they were still immensely grateful for his selfless rescue of Vibrant, and for the help his friends gave them with the fire.
It turned out that both Yellow and Vibrant had completed some first aid training back in Manehattan, and the two swiftly tended to the travellers' wounds and their own. Most of the twenty hooves that entered the farmhouse that night were treated for burns and bandaged.
Once this was done, the still-unconscious White Noise was gently deposited on one of the guest room's sleeper couches, and his friends followed suit. Sky and Sibwashie were asleep before their heads hit the pillows, and they slept soundly until the next morning.
"Good morning," said Sibwashie, rising and stretching as rays of sunlight peered into the room through the curtains.
"Good mor– wait, what?" replied White, finally rising from his comatose state. "Uh... slick awning?"
Sibwashie raised an eyebrow and smiled kindly.
"Why aren't you rhyming anymore?" asked Sky, who had just opened her eyes. "I know it's not because you can't find any more good rhymes."
"You two saved my life last night," Sibwashie replied gravely. "In Zebrica, it is customary to rhyme when speaking to casual acquaintances, superiors and colleagues. We forgo the formality when dealing with close friends and family."
The room was awash with silence as Sky and White contemplated the meaning behind their friend's gesture. The three travellers had been through a lot together, and they still had a long way to go before their journey came to an end.
"That's... quite an honour," said White Noise at last.
"You deserve it," Sibwashie replied. "Especially you, White Noise. I cannot imagine how much pain you must have had to go through to perform that spell while your magic is still recovering."
"What was up with that spell, by the way?" interrupted Sky. "I saw you casting it just as I reached Sibwashie with my cloud. Where did a communication technology unicorn learn to summon magical fire-eating foam?"
White Noise chuckled and gave his friends a sly look.
"Besides telekinesis, unicorns generally only have a few spells, all related to their special talent," White said. "What most don't know is that there's a pretty simple way of learning other spells. All you've gotta do is recontextualize the spell as something relevant to your talent."
Sky and Sibwashie gave White blank looks.
"Okay, a more concrete explanation then. If you had looked closely at the foam I summoned, you would have seen that it spelt a message – 'Help has arrived', to be precise. It did this because my special talent is communication – creating means of communication. By making the foam I summoned an overt means of communication, I was able to 'hack magic', as we say, and move beyond my basic repertoire."
"I think I understand," said Sky. Sibwashie nodded in agreement with her.
"Don't think it didn't take its toll on me, though. All that recontextualization takes a lot of magic to get right, and I think that little spell managed to deplete what little magic had built up again."
Yellow Orange entered the guest room as White finished his explanation. Despite the rest he had had the previous night, he still looked tired. His right forehoof was tightly bandaged; it had been the only one he'd had to use when starving the fires.
"My wife and I would like to thank you travellers for your help last night," he said. "That blaze was bigger than any before it, and if not for your help, the entire farm may have burnt to the ground. We have tended to your wounds, and would like you to have some oranges as a parting gift."
Yellow reached into his saddlebag and gave each of the travellers three oranges.
"These are no ordinary oranges," he said gravely. "They come from my family's private orange orchard, and have been enchanted at great cost. They will not go bad. Eat them when you require strength or healing."
The travellers thanked Yellow for his kindness and put away their precious gifts.
"Yellow Orange, I am truly sorry that I was unable to stop the dragon from burning your farm
But perhaps my friends and I can help you in another way, saving you from future harm."
Yellow's ears perked up, and he poked his head out of the door to call his wife.
"We're interested," he said.
***
Once the governor and Princess Luna were sitting in the governor's office, behind a locked door and away from prying eyes and ears, the Princess lowered her voice to honour the governor's high status.
"We hath heard tell of many strange goings-on about this island and with its ponies," began Luna. "Tell us, Governor, what be the meaning of thy campaign to maketh me thy queen?"
The governor shifted nervously in his seat.
"Oh, you've got it all wrong, your Highness!" he said. "The, uh, 'Princess Luna's New Lunar Republic' campaign is not my doing. It's all the work of my opposition, the 'New Lunar Republic', as they call themselves. The whole thing is a ploy to gain ponies' votes!"
"Opposition? Votes?" Princess Luna asked. "Is there a war here? Thou speakest in riddles, governor!"
Grain Harvest sighed inwardly as he realised that the ancient Princess had no idea how the Lunar Republic's political system worked, or even what democracy was. He supposed she couldn't be blamed.
"Well you see Princess..." he began, going on to explain his country, the party system, and its various ramifications.
"We... think we understand," replied Luna tentatively, after Grain Harvest had finished explaining, repeated a few key points, and fielded a lot of the Princess's questions. "So... thou represents the 'Farmer–Trader Alliance', and thy 'opposition' is the 'New Lunar Republic'? And the two groups compete for the hearts and minds of the citizens, so that the prince – governors of the winning group can ascend to the throne and rule the land? But... only for three years at a time? And thou is the latest in this string of 'elected' governors?"
"Yes, your Highness, that's it exactly."
"And it is the New Lunar Republic – not thy party – that desireth our queenship?"
"That is also correct."
"Oh."
Grain Harvest got the sense that he had misspoken at some point. He glanced up from his desk at Luna, who stared blankly at the wall behind him.
"Please don't see it as disrespect, Princess Luna!" he implored, making eye-contact with the Princess. "It's not that we don't think you'd make a good leader for our nation – I daresay you'd be a better one than me. It's just... well... you and Princess Celestia were meant to rule Equestria together, right?"
"This is true."
This is true, Luna thought. The words echoed in her mind after she said them, and she backed them up with more words and phrases, like "we were meant to rule together, dear sister" and "half the day is night". But the seed of doubt was already planted.
***
White Noise quietly drank the juice out of his first orange as Sibwashie began speaking. He could feel the pain in his hooves receding as the tangy liquid washed down his throat.
"Although I tried to reason with the dragon and my words fell short
I found another way of dealing with him – a method of a more violent sort.
"In my homeland, where the elephants roam and the lions prowl for prey
We have learnt to use the ground to build our houses and keep danger at bay.
"I will teach you the dirt-shaping techniques we use in the place of my birth
And show you how to accurately buck, as in Quagball, a solid sphere of earth."
Vibrant and Yellow were bewildered by Sibwashie's words at first, but he ensured them that what he intended would be made clear upon demonstration. White Noise recommended that he eat one of his oranges to quell the pain in his hooves before trying to pack dirt or buck balls with them, and he did so.
When Sibwashie was ready to demonstrate his unique method of dispatching dragons, he found that his audience consisted of more than just the farming couple. Vibrant and Yellow had called for and gathered a small group of young, fit stallions and mares – some barely out of foalhood – all eager to learn what Sibwashie had to teach them.
As it turned out, Yellow Orange and his wife were not the only farmer ponies who had had their farms decimated by the dragon. Many of the stallions and mares came from the farms of their parents (or in rare cases, their own farms), where the same thing had happened. From what they said they had heard, it seemed to happening all around the island, and on a regular basis.
"And what really gets me," White Noise said, as he and Sky were sitting on the grass, watching Sibwashie's training. "What really gets me is that everypony seems to have been attacked by the same dragon. They've all described a black-scaled dragon with a dark purple underside and evil red glowing eyes."
"He's gotta be a pretty busy dragon then," Sky replied.
"Yeah, busy burning ponies' farms for no personal benefit. It makes no sense!"
"Maybe it does. To the dragon, though – not to us."
"And it would matter to the dragon because... because I don't even know why it would matter to the dragon. I don't know dragons. Not the big ones, anyway."
At that moment, what had been White Noise's quest for knowledge of a dragon-specific branch of magic gained a second purpose: the search for understanding. He, Sibwashie and Sky were going to go to Dragonia not just to plunder secrets and ideas from the dragons' minds, but to understand them – to understand why a dragon would attack sailorponies on a beach, or orange trees on a farm.
***
The president of the New Lunar Republic (or the Movement for the New Lunar Republic, as it was officially known but seldom called) stared out of the window of her office, which was located at the top of a two-storey building in Tranquillity, the island's capital (and only) city.
Her name was Joyous Dawn and she was a unicorn of around the same age as the island's present governor, although she looked a good deal younger. The effect of her neatly tied-back black mane on her dark red coat gave her a severe look – one that she was proud of. Dawn was emphatically not a pushover, and wanted ponies to know it.
She was known to her followers as a dynamic and charismatic leader, and a worthy successor for Mecury, the mysterious mare who had started the movement and then disappeared a month after its establishment. Her cutie mark was an hourglass, overlaid by an ornate telescope. It symbolised her vision and her ability to see things from a long-term perspective.
To her opposition, she was seen as a dangerous opponent, but not an unworthy one. Although there had been murmurs of malcontent with regards to her latest, Luna-centric campaign, most ponies still saw her as a hard-working and terribly intelligent politician, likely to make a very positive difference in the country should she be elected.
Dawn lifted the teacup on the desk behind her with telekinesis, and brought it to her muzzle for a long, refreshing sip. Elections were barely a fortnight away, and she still had a lot of work to do to ensure her continued success in the polls. However, most of the puzzle pieces had already fallen into place, and it was looking as if the completed puzzle would display a picture of Joyous Dawn being sworn into office by solemn government official ponies.
Despite the return of Princess Luna's moon fertilisation magic, there had been a drastic drop in agriculture output in recent weeks. Agriculture was, in Dawn's estimation, the only thing the current government cared about. If they couldn't even protect that which was most important to them, then there was little chance of Grain Harvest seeing another term.
Princess Luna's recent arrival was also an interesting and potentially useful development. According to Dawn's sources, she would be staying in the country for an extended period of time – until a few weeks after the elections, to more precise. Sources also claimed that she was incredibly curious about the ponies who wanted to crown her Queen of the Lunar Republic.
Dawn smiled as she put down her teacup down on the windowsill in front of her. The princess would find out about them soon enough. When she did, she'd come to investigate at head office. And Dawn would be waiting for her.
A knock at the door distracted Dawn from her thoughts. Her ears perked up and her horn glowed a faint red.
"Come in, Barley," she said, face still to the window.
The door opened and a very light yellow pegasus mare entered the room. Joyous Dawn turned around to greet her, and smiles immediately broke upon both of the ponies' faces.
"I still think it's really weird when you do that sensing thing, Joy," Barley said. "It makes visiting you like going to the fortune teller, except you manage to call ponies by their names instead of just saying 'I've been expecting you'."
"Ha, perhaps so," Joy replied jovially. "But there's no point in letting my special talent go to waste, now is there? That spell was the first thing I learnt after getting my cutie mark – it's pretty important to me."
"Fine, fair enough. Anyway, I came to ask you about something: there've been complaints about a dragon attacking farmers' crops recently. At first it was just one farm, somewhere near Port Welcome, but it's been getting worse. Why, just this morning we received letters from at least ten different farms all around the country asking us what we'll do about the dragon if and when we get into power."
Dawn put a hoof to her chin and stood in silence for a moment. Then she smiled.
"We've got barely a fortnight until voting day, and this couldn't have come at a more perfect time. Let the concerned farmers know that a vote for the New Lunar Republic is a vote for a new Lunar Republic, and that new Lunar Republic doesn't include crop-razing dragons."
Barley was already seated on the floor, furiously writing the president's words down on a pad of paper with her mouth.
After thinking for a moment, Dawn added: "Reword it to make it say 'New Lunar Republic' fewer times. I'm all for brand recognition, but this may get a little confusing."
***
The sun had just set as the Moonchaser left Port Welcome. White Noise stood on deck, watching the dock recede as the gentle breeze filled the ship's sails and sent it further and further away.
Before leaving the farm, he had made a promise to Yellow Orange and Vibrant Pattern that he would do what he could to find out the cause of the dragon's strange behaviour when he got to Dragonia. Dragons were mysterious creatures, and the only way he was going to understand them was by talking with some.
"Maybe you can also ask them how we should apologize for all the dirt-bucking we're going to do," Vibrant Pattern had said. "I hate to antagonize the dragon like this, but we really have no choice. If he's going to act like a barbarian, then we really don't have any choice than to give that right back to him."
Sibwashie stood on the other side of the deck, looking at the sea that spread out in front of him. He wasn't looking towards Zebrica – the Moonchaser would have to go around the coast of the Lunar Republic before he'd be able to do that – but he pretended he was. He hadn't been home in over a year, and he was eager to see his family and friends again, if a little anxious about discovering how much had changed in his absence.
Below deck, Sky Wave lay on her bed, feeling her seasickness returning. She considered eating one of her oranges for a moment, but immediately dismissed the idea as a waste.
Instead, she fished one of the oranges out of the saddlebag that lay strewn across the cabin floor and just looked at it. It was bigger than any orange she had ever seen before and, unless it was just a trick of her eyes, seemed to glow faintly in the dark room.
***
Upon entering the Hoofington branch of Dragonfire Delivery to get his morning papers, Grassfire Hospitality was surprised to see a lanky red dragon standing behind the counter in place of the usual short, stout blue one.
"Good morning sir, and welcome to Dragonfire Delivery!" said the dragon, smiling toothily. "How may I help you today?"
"Well, um," began Grassfire. "I don't think I've seen you around here before. Where's Melvin?"
"Melvin has been reassigned, sir," replied the dragon. "His expertise was required elsewhere! I'm Groze, his replacement!"
"Well, okay then," replied Grassfire. "Awfully sudden. But anyway, I'm here for my usual newspapers – although I guess you wouldn't know what those are. Today's Fillydelphia Times and Ponyville Daily, please."
"Certainly sir," said Groze, already writing requests for the newspapers on blank rolls of parchment.
Dragonfire Delivery's local newspaper service had been Melvin's idea. He'd implemented it in Hoofington as soon as White Noise had left, and had then confirmed it as a good idea with White via correspondence somewhat later on. White's response had been enthusiastic, if a little rushed.
"That'll be seventy bits please, sir," said Groze, upon spitting out the two newspapers.
As newspaper delivery cost two jars of dragonfire and the cost of the paper itself, Grassfire tried to avoid purchasing his papers more than once a week. He loved to know what was going on in Equestria, and read new and exciting stories from around the country, but he wasn't made of bits.
Thanking Groze, Grassfire tucked the papers into a saddlebag and trotted out of the store. He waited until he was seated in his private study in the Noble Manticore to read his newspapers.
Equestria was a busy place, and there was a lot of interesting stuff going on in both Fillydelphia and Ponyville, but what caught Grassfire's eye the most was the Ponyville reports of monster sightings and attacks.
Being on the edge of the Everfree Forest as it was, Ponyville was one of the more dangerous hamlets in Equestria. Even so, the monsters that roamed the forest seemed to have little interest in the little town, and generally stayed away from it, unless provoked.
Grassfire knew all this, and – much like the Ponyville Daily reporters – was perplexed at the strange behaviour of the Everfree monsters in recent days. Large and dangerous hydras had been spotted as close to Ponyville as Froggy-Bottom Bog, and a cockatrice had caused quite a stir in the town the previous afternoon. In addition, nearby farmers had reported hearing strange noises at night and seeing large, shadowy figures skulking around their fields.
Ponyville's foremost magic expert and librarian, the famous Twilight Sparkle, was investigating the matter, but had not yet turned up any answers. She was, as the paper said, reluctant to divulge her early, underdeveloped suspicions and theories. "It's got something to do with magic" was all the reporters were able to force out of her.
Grassfire put down the newspaper and reclined in his study chair. The morning sunlight shone in through the window to his right, warming him in its gentle glow. It's got something to do with magic.
|
Ezn
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997
| 8 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-08-09T06:52:18+00:00
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2013-01-11T08:21:24+00:00
| 2,155 |
Chapter Eight
Melvin lugged his heavy suitcase full of glass jars off the ship and onto the dock, looking around disdainfully as he did so. He'd heard a lot of excited chatter about the Lunar Republic, some of it from ponies he halfway respected. While he'd been careful to keep his expectations characteristically low, he was nevertheless disappointed at the state of Port Welcome.
"And I thought Hoofington was a dump," Melvin whispered to himself.
As he carried his suitcase out of the docks and down the town's main road, he made a few keen observations. The town was clean, if only because it had barely been around long enough for anyone to have the time to dirty it up. There didn't seem to be many places one could go for entertainment – unless one had a fondness for the elegance of scaffolding and the diligence of hard-working builder ponies, and Melvin didn't.
Builder ponies. Builder ponies, shopkeeper ponies, farmer ponies and sailor ponies. Melvin noted with that the town had an overabundance of earth ponies. This made sense to him, as no pampered unicorn would choose to live in such an underdeveloped hole and very few airheaded pegasi would care to live so close to sea-level.
"This place isn't even finished," Melvin remarked to himself. "Although that could be a good thing – fewer buildings mean fewer awful buildings."
Eventually, Melvin came to shop 16A – the place that was, under Melvin's care and guidance, to become the first international branch of Dragonfire Delivery. He had to give White Noise credit for getting a shop right in the middle of town – or rather, he would've had to give White Noise credit for that, if Port Welcome had been a town worth being in the middle of.
Melvin sighed. Perhaps you're looking at this the wrong way round, he told himself. Instead of looking at this town for what it is, perhaps it would be wise to see it for what it has the potential to become – under your guidance. It has the potential to become dreadful (well, even more so) under anyone else's.
"Are you Melvin the dragon, sir?" asked a dapper earth pony with a neat moustache.
"Yes, that's me," replied Melvin, regarding the new arrival with some interest. "Are you from the town planning committee?"
"Yes sir," said the pony. "I have come to present you with the key to your boss's new shop."
"You've got excellent timing," Melvin complimented. "I only just arrived in town."
Melvin presented the earth pony with his identification document, at which the pony nodded and motioned towards a key hanging around his neck. Melvin detached the key and opened the door with it.
"Thank you," he said to the pony. "I like your style. Your name?"
"Correspondence, sir."
"I think I'll call you Corr, for short. Have a good day, Corr."
"I will, thank you sir. I wish you the same."
Yes, Melvin thought. I can work with this.
***
The Moonchaser set down anchor at the docks of Sibwashie's hometown of Molaro in midmorning.
"Thank you again for agreeing to take us here," White Noise said to Ocean Glider. "I mean, I know it's quite out of your way, and I'm sure a trip back to Port Anchor could've been far more profitable."
"Nothing would have ever been 'profitable' about my little business if you guys hadn't saved me that night," Ocean replied. "Thanks again – especially to Sky. Besides, you guys weren't my only passengers on this trip – and hey, maybe I can even find some zebras who want to go to the Lunar Republic!"
A round of hoofshakes and promises to stay in touch later, the travellers and Ocean went their separate ways. Ocean would need to restock the Moonchaser before setting sail again, but it was unlikely that the four would see each other again for a long while.
"Come, I will show you around," Sibwashie told his friends, smiling widely. "A few things seem to have changed since I was last home, but it looks like it's still very much the same Molaro I grew up in."
The two ponies followed their friend out of the docks and into his town, looking around and sniffing the air as they did so. Sky Wave noticed a dryness in the air and was also struck by the town's lack of trees. Staring up at the sky, she couldn't see any clouds.
The town's buildings had been designed in a fashion that blended traditional Zebrican solidness with Equestrian flair. The squat, round buildings were made of tightly packed dirt, topped with clean, carefully-woven thatch and beautified with Ponyville-style painted wooden window frames and hanging signs. A few of the more recent-looking structures had even experimented with tiled roofs.
Sky asked about this, making sure to end her question off with "it's very nice, of course".
"Because this is a port town, we are more in touch with Equestria and the rest of the world than inland Zebrica," Sibwashie explained. "The builders and architects who grew up in this town developed a fascination with the exotic designs of your ships and your pastel-coloured wood."
"It's certainly a nice gesture," said White Noise. "All this town needs now is a marble tower or two, and I'll feel right at home."
Sibwashie balked at the thought. Like most zebras, growing up in a town of single-storey buildings had not prepared him for towers and skyscrapers, and he had been happy to leave them behind in Equestria.
"«Sibwashie!»" cried a familiar voice, shaking him from his thoughts. "«That you, bro?»"
The travellers turned to see an excited young zebra colt gallop up to them. He was wearing a pair of slick-looking sunglasses and a huge, goofy grin. The two features contrasted greatly.
"«Yes, Walene, it's me,»" Sibwashie replied, running over to meet his younger brother. "«It is good to see you again.»"
"«Mom and Dad are going to» FLIP OUT «when they see you! Who are these ponies you're with?»"
"«Friends from Equestria. I will introduce them to you.»"
Sky gave White a nudge with her elbow.
"He says he's going to introduce us," White whispered to her.
"Oh."
White Noise and Sky Wave smiled awkwardly at the newcomer, who looked them both up and down a few times. Sibwashie nudged his brother and whispered something into his ear.
"Welcome to our humble town, travellers from afar
My name is Walene, and I'd like to ask who you are," he said to the ponies, giving a small bow.
"White Noise," said White, extending his hoof. "Business-owner."
"Sky Wave," said Sky, also extending a hoof. "Part-time aerial performer."
Walene met both Sky and White's hooves with his own two forehooves and shook them both in a comical manner, causing Sibwashie to let out a chuckle under his breath.
"«Let's go now,»" Walene said, turning to his brother. "«You've kept Mom and Dad and the rest of us waiting for over a year already.»"
One hastily whispered translation in Sky's ear later, the two ponies and two zebras were walking down the dusty town pathway through the town and towards Sibwashie and Walene's parents' house. The two brothers chatted amicably in their own language, but many of the words they used where unfamiliar to White, so he didn't try to translate them for Sky.
Once they arrived at the house, Sibwashie rapped a hoof across its newly sanded wooden door. He was greeted by an older zebra mare, who blinked at him a few times, and then embraced him with a cry of joy.
"«Sibwashie! My son, you're home!»" she cried.
"«I missed you, mother. Also, I have brought friends from Equestria. Would you mind hosting them?»"
Sibwashie's mother's smile grew even broader as she released her son from her hug and caught sight of Sky and White.
"It would be an honour and a pleasure, for it is indeed my duty, dear son
To ensure travellers are well-treated and think fondly of us when their visit is done," she said, smiling widely.
Sibwashie couldn't wait to tell his family about all the new Equestrian words he had learnt since his last visit.
***
Sibwashie's family house was an L-shaped structure, made up of three distinct hut-shapes joined together by hallways. His parents and younger brother lived in one, his older brother lived in another with his wife and child, and the third was used as a lounge and dining room for the whole family, but only on cold nights.
That evening was not cold at all, and it was under the stars, in the family's yard where Sky Wave and White Noise experienced a traditional Zebrican dinner for the first time. And hopefully not the last! Sky thought afterwards.
The meal was made up of various different types of grasses, flowers and leaves, which, at first glance, weren't very exciting. They were arranged very artfully, and White Noise didn't scoff at them as he had scoffed at grazing before, but what really made them enjoyable were the spices and herbs that Sibwashie's mother had added.
Sky had wolfed down three bowls of the stuff, all of which the zebras were happy to give her, in keeping with their custom of hospitality. She thought the food was so nice that she asked Sibwashie's mother – whose name was Baleni – what her secret was.
"My recipe is a cherished family heirloom and a sworn secret between parent and child
Giving it away freely, even to a good and noble pony, would be an act most reviled," she replied.
Sky felt a little bashful after that.
Young Walene cleared away everyone's plates, and the family and their guests enjoyed after-dinner cups of tea.
Sibwashie's older brother was named Inkirenlo, and his wife was Juweni. They had a very young daughter named Ponli, who had been creeping closer and closer to Sky as the dinner went on.
While White Noise and Sibwashie's father, Makena, were in the midst of an in-depth business discussion, Sky felt a tiny hoof on her left wing.
She looked down and the hoof immediately retracted, jerking back to cover Ponli's face. Sky smiled at this and extended her left wing slowly.
Ponli flinched again as Sky's wing started to move and took a few steps back, before covering her face with her other forehoof as well. Oh no! Sky thought. I hope I haven't scared her.
"It's okay," Sky reassured Ponli, using her softest voice. "It's just a wing. It won't hurt you."
Ponli slowly removed her hoof from her face and stared dumbly at Sky. She was too young to know any Equestrian, so she had no idea what the older mare was saying, but she could feel no menace in her words and could detect only kindness on her face.
"I can move it, see," said Sky.
Sky moved her wing in and out, only twitching it at first, but slowly building up to the point where she was gracefully extending and contracting it. Ponli had removed her hooves from her face and stood mesmerized by the movement.
"I won't mind if you want to touch it. Go on."
Sky slowly extended her wing towards Ponli's tentative forehoof. The child looked at her for a moment, and then reached out towards the wing and gently laid her hoof against it. Ponli smiled at the softness of the wing's feathers, and Sky couldn't help but smile with her.
"She has never seen a pegasus pony before
We do not get that many on this shore," said a soft voice to Sky's left.
Sky smiled at Juweni and said: "Well, I guess we don't get too many zebras in Equestria either. But, if you don't have any pegasi, then who controls the weather?"
"Zebrica is a dry, warm country, without many clouds or very much rainfall
Griffons take care of farms and our magic changes the seasons, but that's all."
Sky remembered overhearing Sibwashie and White's numerous discussions about magic, and the nuances of and subtle differences between internal unicorn magic and zebra alchemy, but she had never understood very many of the words they used, or been particularly interested in the subject as a whole.
Winter Wrap-Up in Fillydelphia was her favourite event of the year. Sure, they used magic to wrap up winter in Canterlot and Manehattan, and there had been a drive to start doing the same there, but Sky was glad that nothing had yet come of it. Why let the unicorns have all the fun? she had always thought.
A little to the right of where Sky was daydreaming, White Noise was still deep in conversation with Makena. Their conversation had started with Makena asking White what had brought him to Zebrica, but had soon evolved into a discussion about business practices and the potential Dragonfire Delivery had to completely change the world.
"It's a shame you have to use dragons to make your message fires
The only ones I've ever met have been uncouth vagabonds and liars," Makena said gravely.
"Oh, don't worry about that," White quickly retorted, slightly taken aback. "All the dragons in my employ are diligent workers, and fine, upstanding members of society. Many of them previously served as personal assistants to students of Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns."
Makena hrumphed thoughtfully and nodded ever so slightly.
"I will admit that I have only ever met one dragon, who lived in a cave
Living in cities and towns may teach them the right way to behave."
A niggling voice at the back of White's mind reminded him of an article in the Canterlotian he read a few months prior. It had been about a large dragon who had illegally entered Equestria and decided to take a nap on the top of a mountain. If not for the brave actions of a group of ponies from Ponyville, his slumber may have covered Equestria in smoke for a century.
That sort of uncaring, thoughtless self-centeredness didn't fit well with the picture of what a dragon was like that he had in his mind, and he didn't like to think about it. This, of course, wasn't helped by his group's recent encounter with a malevolent dragon, or Salty Seadog's story.
And I'm going to be waltzing right into dragon territory – scratch that, dragon ancestral homeland – with two friends and a bunch of questions, he thought nervously. It probably won't even take more than a week to get there...
Meanwhile, Sibwashie and his mother and younger brother were talking about the formers experiences in Equestria – especially the ones he'd had in the past two weeks or so.
"«The mayor of Bridleburg said WHAT?!»" asked Walene in disbelief, leaning in to hear the story better.
Sibwashie chuckled at his brother's exclamation and repeated the mayor's words. Walene's eyes grew ever wider as Sibwashie's story progressed.
"«Oh my!»" said Baleni worriedly. "«I'm not sure I want to hear any more of this – you've certainly managed to get yourself into some nerve-wracking situations, Sibwashie. Please be careful about that sort of thing.»"
"«It's alright, mother,»" Sibwashie assured. "«If I hadn't come out of this adventure unscathed, then I wouldn't be here right now, telling you this story. My job as a diplomat is going to necessitate me going into dangerous territory, you know.»"
Baleni sighed and gave Sibwashie another look of concern, before making him promise that he wouldn't do anything unnecessarily dangerous, which he did.
Little Ponli tugged at Sky's wing.
"I think she want to see you spread your wings and fly," said Juweni.
Sky noticed that something was off about Juweni's speech. Where's the second part of the... oh.
She suddenly remembered being briefed about this sort of thing by both Sibwashie and White. "When a zebra wants you to respond to them, they will usually begin a rhyming couplet, and it is your duty to finish it," she had been told.
Her mouth went dry. Gotta think of something, gotta think of something! What rhymes with sky? Die... no, that's horrible! Pie... no, zebras don't eat pie... or do they? Spy... no... try... lie... fly... uh... sky... Yes! Sky, that's it! It's even in your name, idiot!
"Sounds like a good idea," began Sky, her polite smile growing a little too wide, "I really like... the sky!"
Juweni smiled and nodded ever so slightly, and Sky breathed an inward sigh of relief. Juweni then announced Sky's offer to the rest of the table, and they all started looking at her expectantly. White motioned for everyone to steady their cups and mugs with their hooves, lest they be blown away by Sky's take-off.
"Lights, please!" White asked, motioning for Walene to turn off the outside light, which he did.
The group was now illuminated by the light of the full moon alone and would be able to see Sky's performance. There was silence as they let their eyes adjust to the darkness.
Sky breathed in and out, trying to relax. Being careful not to disturb anything on the table, or any of the zebras around her, she got to her hooves, spread her wings and lifted off, shooting up into the star-filled sky.
The whole town of Molaro spread beneath her as she ascended. She could see the little mud-and-wood houses, the few zebras who still roamed the streets after dark, and the cheery lampposts and porchlights that gave the town a warm glow.
Remembering her audience, she stopped herself before rising too high and swooped back down into their view, performing a slow corkscrew as she did so. Sky smiled nonchalantly as her mane flapped about her face while she turned.
On the last corkscrew, Sky tilted her head up and went into a series of loop-de-loops – an old classic. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw her spectators. Ponli was especially transfixed by her flying, her pupils tracking Sky's every movement.
Sky slowed and straightened up. Flapping her wings to stay in a hovering position, she twirled around and around. One of her hindlegs moved to the side, the other stayed rigidly beneath her, and Sky spun around in the air, as if balancing on the vertical leg.
The dry air made her eyes itch, and she closed them for a moment. There were no tall trees anywhere near the house, so she wasn't at all worried about colliding with anything.
Once Sky had finished her impromptu performance, she landed gracefully next to the table and was immediately engaged by an energetic Ponli, shouting her head off excitedly in baby-Zebrican.
"She says that that was wonderful, and she wants to see more
But it's already long past the time I should put her in bed to snore," Juweni translated.
Sky smiled at her newest little fan, and she smiled back, reaching out to touch Sky's wing again.
"Wow, Sky Wave, that was a really excellent display
Where-ever did you go to learn to fly that way?
"None of the griffons I've seen here do those kinds of twisty-turny moves,
Their flight's complete purpose-driven, like zebras are on our hooves," Walene said excitedly, displaying a greater command of Equestrian than expected.
Sky blushed and told him and little Ponli (even though she couldn't understand) about her dancing lessons during her summer vacations in Cloudsdale. They listened attentively, and even their respective parents appeared interested.
"It sounds like this dancing has taught you patience and discipline
Perhaps a grounded version would be good to enroll our daughter in," said Inkirenlo.
"I'd recommend it!" Sky replied.
After realising that it was long past Ponli's bedtime, the ponies and the other members of her family soon found themselves yawning and discovered that it was possibly just a little bit of time past their own bedtimes as well.
Makena and Baleni offered Sky and White sleeper couches in the common room of their family hut, which the ponies gratefully accepted. They were perhaps not the most comfortable beds in all of Molaro, but they were free of charge and given out of a spirit of hospitality the ponies did not wish to offend.
***
"White," whispered Sky. "Psst – White? You asleep yet?"
"No," came a flat voice from the other side of the room.
"Uuh... me neither," Sky replied, shifting under her duvet. "Everything's so strange here – I swear there's a different smell to the air and everything."
A very soft sniffing sound came from White's couch. "Hmm. You're right."
"If things are already so strange and different here in Zebrica, imagine what it's going to be like when we finally get to Dragonia?" Sky mused. "Do they even have towns and cities there? I don't know that they do."
"My research shows that most dragons in Dragonia live in caves in the rocky mountains. They have no need for artificial buildings, apparently. Their caves suit them just fine, and if one isn't too their liking, then they just find another one. It's a very... different sort of society."
"Sure sounds like it."
Neither pony wanted to voice their real concern: whether or not it was actually a good idea to continue their journey to Dragonia, given all they had recently learnt. They'd been through a lot together already, too much for them to just turn back without completing their quest – the quest that had started as White's quest alone, but was gradually becoming shared by all three. But Dragonia was largely uncharted, and their safety would be entirely in the hands of dragons – dragons they may not be wise to trust.
The two continued their smalltalk for a few more minutes, before it died down and they finally went to sleep.
***
White Noise had another strange dream that night.
He was standing in an empty room. The walls, floor and ceiling were plain white, and there were no windows or doors. The room was perfectly square, and White stood directly in the middle of it.
He blinked his eyes a few times, and the walls began to wobble. Ripples cracked along their surfaces, and White heard a sound – almost like flowing water, but with a slight, grating edge.
The floor beneath him turned green, and then blue, followed by red. The ceiling mirrored these colour changes. Before White knew it, the colours had spread to the walls, and the wobbling to the ceiling. The floor's wobbling knocked him off balance.
He crashed down onto the floor, and with an echoing TSSH, like the breaking of glass, a web of cracks appeared beneath him. The web grew.
Soon the whole room was riddled with cracks, and parts of it began to fall away. As more and more of the room shattered and fell in around him, the strange, water-like sound grew louder. It grated at White's ears, becoming almost deafening.
As the din reached its grew louder and louder, White thought he heard a voice, screaming through the room and penetrating his mind. The voice didn't say anything – it just screamed.
White awoke with a start.
Sweating profusely, he tried to recall what his dream had been about, but found he could not. This dream was even more difficult to remember than the last one.
His body still wracked with nervous shivers, White lay his head back down on his pillow and tried to get some sleep.
Just as White fell asleep again, Sky mumbled something indistinct and shifted on her couch uncomfortably. She was having a dream about flying through a waterfall.
***
A Zebrican breakfast, as it turned out, was just as good as a Zebrican dinner. It was also made of mostly the same ingredients, with a few eggs and some toast in addition.
"I am afraid that we zebra do not have as varied a diet as they say you do
But I have bought some eggs: traditional Equestrian breakfast foods for you two," explained Baleni.
"That's quite alright," replied White Noise. "Sky and I are in your country now – we may as well sample some of the local culture and get an understanding for how you do things here."
"As long as we don't have to rhyme all our words," Sky added.
Sibwashie chuckled under his breath.
"The most important thing that rhyming helps us learn
Is not to speak thoughtlessly, or out of turn," said Inkirenlo, speaking for the fifth time since he had met Sky and White.
"Oh, uuh," Sky began, suddenly feeling very foolish. "I... uh..."
Sky smiled awkwardly and continued eating her breakfast. Inkirenlo's silence and stoicism intimidated her, but she figured he must not have been too bad if he was Sibwashie's brother, and if he raised the delightful little Ponli. Still, he was intimidating.
Once breakfast was done with, White Noise and Sky Wave decided to have a look around town, in search of some supplies and perhaps some advice about travelling through Zebrica. They asked Sibwashie to join them, to which he replied that he would catch up with them in a little while.
Once they were gone, Sibwashie turned to his family. "«It has been a great joy to see you all again, dear family. But I was not planning to stay here for very long. The success of White Noise's mission relies on my mediation skill, and so I must depart with him when he is ready to go. I will see you again later on today, and then once more, upon our return from Dragonia.»"
Baleni immediately ran up to hug her son. "«We'll miss you, dear. Please take care of yourself»"
"«I will, mother.»"
Releasing her son, Baleni thought for a moment before adding: "«And tell that pegasus girl she's a good pony.»"
"«I will, mother.»"
"«Just don't go getting any ideas about marriage or something like that! She's not that good.»"
"«I won't, mother»"
***
Princess Luna stood alone on a deserted beach. She stared out to sea, gazing in the direction of Equestria, thinking of Canterlot. Dusk was coming to a close, and the time had come for her to raise the moon.
While her sister encouraged large audiences to gather around when she would raise the sun, Luna preferred a more discrete approach to her celestial duty. She stood alone to raise the moon, just as she had done many years before, in the dark courtyard of the old castle.
Luna closed her eyes and slowly rose into the air. The task of raising the moon employed a kind of magic more closely related to the innate, mysterious magic of the pegasi and the earth ponies than the carefully-studied spell-casting of unicorns. Luna would ascend with a few powerful beats of her wings, and the moon would ascend with her.
The moon peered over the ocean, and the princess returned her hooves to the sand and admired it. Given an initial boost, it would continue along its ancient path until it was time to put it to rest and let Celestia bring out the sun.
To any other set of eyes, the moon's silvery light alone would have been visible on the water, but Luna saw another light, made visible by her glowing horn. The moon basked the island in a soft, purple mist that wafted lazily along the ground. Cocking her ears, Luna fancied she could hear the plants growing around her.
She suddenly felt very tired. The princess was reminded that she had not yet regained all of her power. Raising the moon was getting easier, but it still took a lot out of her – a far cry from the ease with which she had locked it in the sky at her full power a thousand years before.
Her lack of power was also evident in the state of the purple mist. It was thinner than she remembered it being. Before, it had obscured the ground in an almost opaque fog, but on this night it was little more than a thin film, giving the sand a slight purple tint.
But it was something, and the people of the Lunar Republic were grateful for it. Everywhere she had been, she'd seen smiling faces and heard cheerful whoops, all in celebration of her appearance. Nopony was afraid of her, and everypony wanted to hear her speak and to compliment her on her beautiful night.
"My daddy says you make all the plants on our farm grow really really big!" a young filly had told her. "He says you do it with the moon!"
"THIS IS CORRECT, YOUNG ONE," Luna had responded proudly. "It is indeed with the MAGIC OF MY MOON that your LAND'S HARVEST is the most BOUNTIFUL IN ALL THE WORLD!"
The filly had been so excited by Luna's reply that she had run off to tell all her friends about her short audience with the princess. She'd been too excited to even say goodbye to Luna, but the Princess understood.
Later on that day, she'd received an overflowing basket of apples, pears, oranges and other assorted fruits from a stout shopkeeper with a luxurious moustache.
"Zis is a gift, your Highness, a gift for you!" he had said, his eyes twinkling. "But it is actually a gift from you. A gift from you to yourself! For vithout your powerful magic, fruits of zese sizes would not grow! I thank you, your Majesty, I thank you on behalf of all Lunar Republicans. For ze New Lunar Republic!"
Luna had heard a few grumbles of dissent among her government-hired bodyguards at the pony's parting words. Party politics was very new to her, and she wasn't sure she liked it.
Although the governor had conspicuously avoided mentioning the upcoming elections, Princess Luna had managed to discover that they were scheduled for less than two weeks after her arrival. Since she planned to tour the island for a month, she would be there for the election.
And I'll be here after the election as well, she thought to herself. I wonder who's going to get elected? Will Grain Harvest stay on as governor, or will there be somepony else? What if another party gets elected? I should ask somepony...
Princess Luna decided that she would need to pay the New Lunar Republic's head office a visit.
***
"We'll be spending most of our time on the open road," said White Noise, poring over his newly purchased map of Zebrica. "I'd have liked to have visited Shangora, or one of the other big cities, but none of them are on the way. In fact, there don't seem to be an awful lot of zebra settlements along the road to Skandar's Pass at all."
The map's crisp brown surface had been marred with a dashed red line leading from Molaro to a gap in Dragonia's formidable cliffs, known as Skandar's pass. Sibwashie had mentioned earlier that Skandar's Pass was among the only safe routes into Dragonia available to non-fliers.
"The stories tell us that the dragons chose their mountainous, isolated homeland out of a desire to be left alone," he had explained. "In the old days, dragons would swoop down from their nests to catch unsuspecting zebras. That's why there aren't many towns nearby – dragons may not eat zebras and ponies anymore, but the subconscious fear persists."
After stocking up on some necessary provisions at the local shops and bidding a long farewell to Sibwashie's family, the travellers set their sights upon the dusty road that would lead them to their destination. They set out in the middle of the afternoon, having timed their departure so that they would make it to a roadside inn a little while after sundown.
The three trotted along the road at a leisurely pace, staring across the flat plains that extended past the horizon. The long grass that grew on either side of the road swayed in the gentle breeze. To the north, they could just see the cliffs of Dragonia. The sun set behind them as they inched further north-east.
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Ezn
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997
| 9 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-08-19T12:04:27+00:00
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2013-01-11T08:46:35+00:00
| 2,581 |
Chapter Nine
It was mid-afternoon the day after their departure from Molaro when the travellers arrived in the first town on their route. The hot Zebrican sun had dipped below its noontime zenith, and it was in a pleasant, hazy heat that the three entered that small village of Kweweri.
Sibwashie smiled at the sight of the town's plain huts, unadorned by Equestrian flourishes. The scene reminded him of visits with extended family in similar villages.
"Have you been here before, Sibwashie?" White Noise asked him. "Anything you can tell us about the village of Kweweri?"
"This is my first time here," he replied. "We shall all discover it together."
"Nah, I've been here before," Sky added. "Bought the t-shirt and everything."
The other two glanced at her. She grinned. White Noise rolled his eyes, and then turned them to the buildings around him, searching for a sign that indicated the presence of an inn or cafe. His stomach grumbled loudly.
"Sibwashie!" he said. "My zebra-script is a little rusty, so perhaps you wouldn't mind finding someplace to eat and leading us there?"
"I can do better than that," was Sibwashie's reply.
Mystified, the two ponies followed Sibwashie as he walked off the town's dirt road and approached one of the huts. This particular hut didn't have a sign and looked far more like a home than any kind of business. Sibwashie strode up to the front door, and the two ponies lingered behind.
Frowning, he motioned for them to join him in front of the house's front door instead of awkwardly standing around a few steps back from it. Once they were standing next to him, one on either side, he made sure they had smiles on their faces and rapped a hoof against the hut's knobby wooden door.
A call was heard from inside the house, and a few moments passed before the door opened to reveal a zebra couple who looked around a decade older than the travellers. Sibwashie and the two ponies smiled at the couple.
"Zebras of Kweweri, I bring you greetings from Molaro and good wishes from across the sea
My friends and I have just arrived in your village and would like to request your hospitality.
"We have walked all day, and it has caused us to hunger and to tire
If you can provide us with food, I will tell you our tale – I am no liar.
"We have come far and seen much; this is obviously true
And even now, a good way in, there is still so much to do," Sibwashie said, speaking slowly at first, and speeding up as the recognition in the eyes of the zebra couple showed that they could understand Equestrian.
The couple looked at each other before both of them broke into smiles and ushered their visitors inside.
"If you can tell a story that excites and enthralls,
We will be glad to have you within our walls," said the male zebra.
Sibwashie grinned at his companions and leaned down to whisper to them.
"Old zebra hospitality custom," he told them. "It's very useful if you have got a good story to tell."
***
Melvin rubbed the rightmost jar of dragonfire on the bottom display shelf in his new shop. Stepping back to take a look at it, he noticed that the label read "ridleburg". Melvin carefully straightened the jar, lining it label up with that of the jar on the shelf just above it.
He then stepped out from behind the counter and admired his handywork. Dragonfire Delivery – Port Welcome was looking clean and ready for business. He'd put up some posters detailing the business's various services and prices, as well as a "flavour poster" he'd commissioned from a starving artist in Hoofington.
The so-called "flavour poster" was adorned with two long-bodied dragons that twisted along its sides – one red and one blue. At the top of the poster, green fire came out of their mouths and formed the words "Dragonfire Delivery". Below these words was the feature of the poster that Melvin felt most proud of – he had written it himself.
Since time immemorial, the proud and mysterious dragon race has used the magical properties of its fire to send letters far and wide in the blink of an eye.
The dragons kept their magic a fiercely guarded secret until one century ago, when the wise Princess Celestia was able to gain the trust and respect of the great Dragon King, and the "Equestria-Dragonia Treaty" was drawn up. The Princess learnt the secrets of this powerful communication method and brought numerous young dragons into Equestria under her employ, and created a robust internal mailing system in her School for Gifted Unicorns
Now, for the first time in history, the speed and convenience of dragonfire is available to you, the common pony! Gone are the days of waiting weeks for your mail – with dragonfire, you can receive correspondence from friends on the other side of the country in the time it takes to have a cup of tea!
Dragonfire Delivery – condensing long distances into short timeframes.
Once he was done admiring his deft prose and enviable marketing skills, Melvin took a few steps toward the front of the shop, flipped the sign on the door to "Yay! We're open" and hooked the door open.
And now to wait, he thought.
***
Melvin was not destined to wait very long and had just readjusted an errant "Seaddle" jar when his first customer arrived on the doorstep.
"Wot's all this then?" asked the customer.
Melvin didn't even have to look at the pony to ascertain that he was a young stallion from Trottingham (or possibly Buckshire) who had recently arrived in the Lunar Republic to seek his fortune. He looked at the pony anyway, confirming most of his assumptions. He also noted that the stallion was a white-and-brown-spotted paint pony.
"Hello, good sir," he greeted, putting on a fake smile and faker cherry demeanour. "Welcome to Dragonfire Delivery! How may I be of service?"
"You can be 'of service' by tellin' me wha' this is all abou'," the stallion replied. "It's no' everyday a new shop opens up in Por' Welcome – although it does come close to that a'times. This is a fast-growin' town, after all! Full of opportunity! Brimming with potential! And adventure!"
Melvin smiled at the customer, his mouth beginning to hurt. "Um, yes... quite. Now, you said you wanted to know what it is that Dragonfire Delivery does?"
"Tha' I did. I see yew've go' a fancy sign, prob'bly wi' writin' on i'... prob'bly writin' that answers my question. But I don' like readin' so much, so if ya could tell me, I'd be much obliged."
"Well," Melvin began, gathering his thoughts. "Basically we're like an extra-speedy version of the postal service. With the amazing magic of dragonfire, I can send a letter from here to anywhere in Equestria in the time it would take you – or rather, me – to sneeze."
"That so?"
"It is indeed. For a price between forty and sixty bits – depending on the destination – I can sell you one of these jars of dragonfire on the shelf behind me. Simply write a letter, and then put it in the jar. The letter will burn up and be transported to one of our dragon operatives in the city or town on the jar's label. As an added bonus, jarred dragonfire still gives off light – perfect writing-light, in fact!"
"Hmm..." the stallion pondered, stroking the ratty goatee on his chin.
"A Trottingham jar would normally cost fifty bits," Melvin said, eyes lighting up. "But seeing as you're my very first customer, I'd like to give you fifty percent off! Twenty-five bits, and that jar is yours!"
The stallion's eyes widened, and Melvin smiled inwardly. He would still be making a personal profit of five bits.
"I'll take it!" he said. "Mum 'n dad will be so 'appy to ge' a letter from me!"
"We offer some other services too. Newspaper delivery is one of our most recent innovations. I'm sure I can offer you a copy of the Trottingham Sun, for a today-only discounted price of fifty-three bits – two jars of dragonfire and the cost of the paper."
"'Today-only', you say? Well, I'm not one f'r readin', but I go' a few friends 'ho migh' like a paper fr'm the mainland. I'll spread the word."
"Oh, that would excellent! Thank you, sir."
Melvin sold his first customer a "Trottingham" jar of dragonfire and rubbed his claws together as the pony left the store to tell his friends.
***
Dinner was concluding as Sibwashie entered the final stanza of his poem.
"And so on that lunar ship, we sailed to the Zebrican shore
We put down anchor near Molaro, my home of yore
Before travelling further, we had a quick respite
And Sky Wave danced in the sky at night."
The zebra couple clopped their hooves together politely, at which Sibwashie beamed and bowed his head.
"We cannot imagine how much of that story was true
But we know that all of it was entertaining – thank you," said the husband, whose name was Padle.
With Sibwashie's story finally over, the group's attention turned to Sky and White, who had both been sitting very quietly up until this point.
"Mr Noise, as an international businesspony, I must ask your advice
Do you think apples are a good investment, or should I go with rice?" asked Padle.
"Uh, well, I guess you should..." White Noise began, trailing off as he desperately tried to remember the few things Turquoise had told him about the stock market.
"Perhaps I can invest in wood?"
Padle's wife, whose name was Kalena, turned to Sky, who smiled politely at her.
"I am the manager of our Post Office, so I too have delivered mail
Your dismissal was highly irregular; in Zebrica, it would not sail," Kalena said.
"Tell me about it," Sky replied. "I don't know how our Post Office thinks it's going to function with only ponies specifically born for the job."
"It is unfair that they believe anyone without a mail-related cutie mark to be a slob."
"Yeah, but if they hadn't fired me, I wouldn't be here right now. That would be quite sad."
"Good things can come of bad; I envy your opportunity to travel – it is one I wish I had."
"I never thought I'd leave Fillydelphia, and here I am on another continent! I've seen so much... but it's more than just that – I've made friends as well."
"By the time you return home, you will have amazing stories to tell."
"And, of course, there are these oranges!"
"..."
Kalena's mouth shut tight, and Sky gave her an inquisitive look. Her eyes widened and then narrowed disapprovingly. Sky didn't get it.
"Excuse me, Sky – we need to talk. Perhaps we can quickly make use of the next room's doorhinges," said Sibwashie, cutting into the conversation.
Kalena breathed a sigh of relief as Sibwashie led a very confused Sky into the house's living room.
"What was that about?" she asked. "Why did she stop talking like that?"
Sibwashie put a hoof on his forehead for a moment before replying.
"Oranges, Sky," he said gravely. "The word 'oranges' does not have any perfect rhymes."
"So? It's not like we were... oh wait..." Sky covered her mouth with a forehoof as she realised what she had done. "But your parents..."
"My parents are more accustomed to speaking with non-zebras than these villagers. When you did not respond to Kalena with your own couplet, she assumed that you meant her to complete your rhyme."
"Oh. I guess I've still got a lot to learn." Sky's hooves moved to her forehead. "I don't think you ever told me why this rhyming stuff is so important to you guys."
"I never did, no," replied Sibwashie. "My mistake. It would have been the sensible thing to do."
"..."
"I take it you would like to know why rhyming is so important to us zebras."
"Yes, please."
"Very well. It all began over a thousand years ago, long before ponies and zebras ever made contact..."
«-oOo-»
The land of Zebrica was not always united under one government. In ancient times, herds of zebra living in close proximity to one another built self-governing villages, with their own customs, hierarchies and chiefs – becoming individual tribes.
In those days, life was peaceful, and tribes largely kept to themselves, occasionally trading or intermarrying when one came across another. There were occasional disagreements, and these were settled by battles, but not large-scale ones. In these early battles, champions from both tribes would face off in a physical fight, and the tribe of the first one to get tired and collapse would be declared the loser and would have to concede to the other.
For many years, this was the way of things, and zebras all over the land were happy. This was until Shano's appointment as chief of the Zolaro tribe. Zebras in that time said Shano was "kissed by the stars", and his close associates described him as having a passionate fire in his eyes.
Not satisfied with his tribe's pitiful size, Shano spent long, sleepless nights trying to figure out ways to bring the Shano to greater prominence. He tried a barbaric breeding regime, forcing every mare of child-bearing age to foal as many little zebras as she could and using the magic of the tribe's shamans to increase the probability of them giving birth to strong twin colts.
But with pregnancies taking as long as four hundred days, Shano became impatient with this method and soon hit upon another: the integration of other tribes.
It was through Shano that zebrakind was introduced to large-scale violence. In his ambition, he forewent traditional champion battles and built up an army of champions, using them first to intimidate, and later to force other tribes into joining his own.
Over the years, the Zolaro tribe grew in numbers, power and influence, eventually coming to cover half of the today's Zebrica. Shano was ruthless, but not stupid. He kept his tribe under his mighty hoof and designed battle formations, weapons and training styles to keep his edge over the few remaining independent tribes.
These independents, not wishing to fall under Zolaro rule, reluctantly joined forces under their oldest and wisest chief: Xenta of the Mumbaro tribe.
Xenta was a kind, reasonable leader, but she was not impractical. She took no joy in raising armies against the forces of Shano, but did so out of necessity. Many great battles were fought between the two factions, and much zebra blood was spilt in the dust.
Eventually, Shano died – he was stabbed in the back by Dishaka, his power-hungry younger brother. Sadly for the Zolaro tribe, Dishaka was not half the leader Shano had been, and the tribe descended into bloody in-fighting.
Zebras had been introduced to the effectiveness of war and bloodshed, and many of the weaker-willed would fly into murderous rages over the slightest disagreements.
Some years after Shano's death, the Mumbaro tribe were having a feast with Dishaka's splinter of the Zolaro tribe. Spirits were high, and the talk of peace was in the air – until a heated argument broke out between the generals of the two tribes' armies.
As the Mumbaro general was reaching for the assegai in his saddlebag, the wise Chief Xenta intervened. She looked into the eyes of the two generals and held up a hoof to both of their mouths, saying that she was not interested in what they were arguing about.
The people of both tribes were silent when Xenta finally spoke.
"Generals, why would you provoke ill-will between our two herds?
Reiterate your arguments, this time with a rhyme in your words," she said.
The generals were taken aback at this, but did as they were instructed. After a few minutes of thinking, each stated their viewpoints.
"I was just saying that the bull-and-horns formation is one of great power
It catches the enemy army off-guard and makes them... cower..." said the Zolaro general.
"And I merely stated that no formation so well-used can be surprise
I concede that it was deadly in Shano's day, but now we've grown wise," said the Mumbaro general.
Xenta smiled as the generals considered each other's points and came to an agreement, nodding and laughing instead of reaching for their weapons. From that day forward, zebras conducted all important matters of trade and debate in rhyme, preventing anyzebra from losing his temper and saying harsh words in haste.
«-oOo-»
"Collaborative couplet-completion came later on. It is usually used when zebras are asking questions and exchanging more causal ideas with one another, as opposed to when they debate, make statements or teach others." Sibwashie bowed his head as he finished his story.
"I think I understand now," said Sky. "Let's go back to the dining room – I'll apologise to Padle and Kalena."
"And you'll avoid ending your sentences with words that don't have rhymes when talking to them?"
Sky opened her mouth to complain about how difficult that would be, but then thought better of saying that to somezebra who had managed to adlib a poem about their adventures earlier that evening.
***
"I was told that you sell Equestrian newspapers in this establishment," said Melvin's second customer.
"Your source was correct," Melvin replied. "What can I get you?"
"I'd like a copy of the Manehattanite, the Fillydelphia Post and the Canterlot Herald."
"Certainly sir," Melvin replied, before ducking down to the abacus he kept under the table.
Melvin's nimble claws flicked the abacus's beads this way and that, and after a succession of soft tapping noises, he came up with a total.
"That'll be one-hundred and fifty-nine bits, please ma'am."
The mare's eyes widened in horror. "Daylight robbery!"
Melvin smiled awkwardly, shifting from one foot to the other. He refrained from mentioning that the exorbitant price of his wares was an opening day special.
"I like the news, certainly, but not that much!"
"Could I perhaps interest you in a single newspaper? The Canterlotian, perhaps?"
Melvin did a quick mental evaluation of the customer: middle-aged, unicorn, mare, hat-wearer...
"I have it on good authority that there's an exclusive interview with Hoity Toity in today's issue," Melvin mentioned. "There's even a piece on the headwear designs of the up-and-coming young designer Miss Rarity."
"Who's that?"
Melvin raised an eyebrow and smiled inwardly.
"Why, she's the hottest new name in the Canterlot fashion scene!" he said. "Her dresses and hats have been the centrepieces of everypony's wardrobes for months! Surely you must have heard of her?"
"Oh, that Miss Rarity! Of course I've heard of her – I placed an order for three of her dresses just last week." The mare chuckled uneasily. "Um, one Canterlotian, please."
Two minutes and a message to Smooth Scales later, fifty-three bits clattered onto Melvin's counter and his second customer left the store, her snout entrenched in the day's Canterlotian.
Melvin deposited half of the bits he'd just received below the counter, with the rest of his ever-growing private stash. Strangely, it looked slightly smaller to him than it had the previous day, even though a quick mental tally showed that the bits still came to the same total figure.
After patted himself on the back for his triumph, Melvin became serious. He knew that he wouldn't be able to guilt everypony into buying his newspapers so easily, and he also knew that selling Equestrian newspapers to homesick Lunar Republicans could and should be a huge source of income. If only he could make it less resource-intensive...
An idea began to form in Melvin's mind.
***
After a restful night and a large breakfast with the Padle and Kalena, the travellers thanked their hosts profusely and went on their way. At one point, White Noise had motioned towards his bit bag, but Sibwashie had put out a hoof to stop him – by Zebrican custom, their story had been payment enough.
The hot Zebrican sun beat down on the trio as they made their way to the edge of the town. There was not a cloud in the sky, and not a body of water to be seen for miles around. The travellers felt very thirsty, and White Noise groaned inwardly at the thought of the long way they would be walking that day.
At the edge of the town, the travellers spotted a metal-and-wooden something that made White's pre-emptively tired heart soar – train tracks. His eyes followed them to a squat wooden building to the group's right.
"Look at that!" he exclaimed. "There's a train station here! Maybe we can take a train to the Dragonian border!"
"My country's trains do not serve its far-flung borders," Sibwashie replied. "Our railway system is very much centralised – a station in place like Kweweri is likely the end of the line."
"That... actually makes a lot of sense," Sky interjected, musing on Equestria's own raillines.
"Well," White Noise began, scrambling for reasons to ride a train instead of walking, "maybe there's one or two more stops along the line? I'm sure we could make our journey that little bit faster with the help of this train."
White's companions nodded in agreement and mumbled about there being no harm in trying, and the three of them headed towards the train station hopefully.
"Look at that," Sky said as they neared the station. "It looks like there's some kind of party going on here!"
Just in front of the station, a patch of clear ground was occupied by a group of around ten large male zebras. The zebras were dancing and singing, their hooves rising and falling in time to the slow rhythm of their drawn-out words.
"Is this a traditional dance?" Sky asked Sibwashie eagerly. "Like, a dance intended to stop the train from having an accident? Or to improve the morale of the zebras pulling the train?"
Sibwashie let out a long breath and motioned towards the signs that had been propped up around the dancers. Their zebra-script was indecipherable to Sky, but the words were large and roughly inked.
"This is a strike," he said. "The train-pullers do not feel that they are receiving adequate compensation for their work."
White, who had hitherto been staring intently at the scattered signs, nudged Sibwashie with his elbow and pointed at one of the signs.
"I've always wanted to see rough, mouth-written zebra-script! However, I fear that my knowledge of it is a little rusty, or perhaps too rigidly set on the printed version. What does that sign say?"
"You don't want to know, my friend," Sibwashie warned, chuckling inwardly.
"How are we going to use the train if the pullers are on strike?" Sky asked suddenly. "I don't think it can run on its engine alone."
"Well, actually..." White Noise began, before trailing off. "No, sorry, I was thinking of something else."
"Maybe we should go inside and talk to whoever's in charge here," said Sky. "We may even be able to help settle this!"
White cocked an eyebrow at her. "And just how are we going to get through this? Last time I checked, strikers don't just let ponies walk into the places they're striking in front of."
"Maybe it's different in Zebrica?" Sky pondered, glancing hopefully at Sibwashie.
Sibwashie shook his head. "It's not. People are much the same, wherever you go."
As if in answer to their dilemma, the station's door opened just then, and a hard-faced griffon wearing a conductor's hat walked out.
A grin stretched across Sky's muzzle as she looked into the griffon's hard eyes. Here was a griffon with a cushy office job, oppressing the hard-working zebra train-pullers who were actually native to the land. Here was her opportunity to stand up for the downtrodden!
Sky flapped her wings and rose into the air, puffing her body up to look intimidating.
"You there!" she cried, pointing a forehoof at the griffon. "I want to have a word with you."
The griffon looked a little perplexed, but decided to fly up and humour to confrontational pink pegasus. Her anger made her look rather adorable – just like his teenage daughter back home.
"Yes, ma'am?" he asked politely.
Sky was fuming with righteous anger. "How dare you come into these zebras' country, steal a cushy job in their transport industry, and then use it to oppress them! You should be ashamed!"
"Uh..." the griffon began, inwardly amused at Sky's antics.
Down below, Sibwashie raised a hoof in front of his face.
"Well?" Sky asked haughtily.
The conductor breathed in and out, before speaking slowly: "Ma'am, this here payment problem is a tragedy, but not one that I am responsible for. My train-pullers haven't got their annual raise because the company's losin' money. There's a drought here in Zebrica, and that means that we have less produce to transport, which in turn means that we make fewer stops, get less payment for our transport services and have less money to go around."
"Oh," Sky said flatly.
"In fact, I was just coming out of my office to try negotiate a deal with my workers – get them a small raise at the cost of some of my own paycheck from this 'cushy job' of mine."
Sky hung her head and descended, landing next to her companions. They had heard everything.
"I'm, uh... I'm sorry, sir," Sky said to the griffon who had just landed in front of her. "I thought..."
"Don't worry about it, ma'am, you had good intentions; jus' try not to jump to conclusions like that in future."
The four stood in silence for a moment.
"So, uh, I guess the train isn't running at the moment," White said.
"I'm afraid not," replied the griffon conductor, a deadpan expression on his beak. "The train will not be running until I and head office can sort out this strike."
White Noise thanked the conductor half-heartedly, and the three travellers turned their back on the station and walked away. White's hooves felt especially heavy.
***
Melvin smiled to himself as he admired his handiwork: a pile of claw-written sheaves of paper, summarising the most important events that had happened throughout Equestria the previous day. It had taken him the whole of the previous night, and his writing claw was suffering from awful cramps, but he was proud of his work.
He had placed a new sign in the window of the shop, advertising the "Dragonfire Equestrian Digest", at its "affordable price of 30b!", and with its "news from all corners of the pony homeland, from Prance to Stalliongrad".
Sure enough, his first customer arrived shortly after opening time. Melvin smiled as he recognized the dapper pony entering his store.
"Good morning, Corr," he said cheerfully. "How may I help you?"
"I would very much like to see this 'Digest' of yours, sir," replied Correspondence, his eyes already locked on the pile of papers resting beside Melvin's clasped claws. "I have been dying to hear about Equestria again for months."
In response, Melvin grabbed the top sheaf from the pile and held it up in front of Correspondence's face, letting his exemplary summarising skills speak for themselves.
Much to Melvin's dismay, Corr frowned. "I thought this was supposed to be 'digest'."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Melvin snapped.
"Well, it's about as easy to digest as a bucket of gravel," Corr added. "This article about diamond mining, in particular, has a very needless digression about gem aging and 'subtle taste differences resulting from shape and impurities'."
Melvin bit his lower lip. He'd been working so hard on his digests that he'd forgotten to eat the previous evening. If everypony has the same opinion as Corr does, this is going to be a disaster! he thought.
Corr plucked the digest from Melvin's claws and put it down on the counter, shaking his head as he skimmed over more of the articles. He muttered things about "verbose language" and "misplaced witticism" as he paged through the rest of the digest, causing Melvin to bite his lip even harder.
But before Melvin could draw blood, an idea struck him.
"Hey Corr," Melvin began, taking a quick glance at Correspondence's right flank. "What's your special talent?"
"Summary," Correspondence responded sharply.
His cutie mark is a quill, thought Melvin. I guess it is kind of a short quill... maybe...
"Tired of working for city hall?"
"They pay me well."
"How much do you get?"
Corr told him.
Melvin glanced down at his private stash of bits. "I can double that."
Corr nodded politely and raised a hoof to Melvin's already outstretched claw. Melvin winced slightly as he clasped Corr's hoof – his claw cramp hadn't gone away – and the deal was done.
"Welcome to Dragonfire Deliveries, Mr Correspondence!"
"Thank you, sir."
With his eyes closed and his face turned away, Melvin swept his papers off the counter and into a waiting rubbish bin, before handing a stack of newspaper and a quill to his new employee.
"Get summarising," he said with a smile.
***
Princess Luna stood outside of the door of the New Lunar Republic's head office – a modest, two-storey brick building close to the centre of town. The glass door was propped open, but Luna hesitated slightly before going inside.
Her royal guards had wanted to come to the office with her – for protection, they had said. Luna had flatly refused their help and sent them off into the town to bide their time until she was ready for them to take her to another part of the island on her royal chariot. She was more than capable of handling herself.
Many centuries before, when she and Celestia had only recently wrested control of the land from Discord, there had been no need for guards, or political meetings, or any of this modern stuff that made Luna's head spin. The princesses had lived with a few trusted friends and servants in their castle in the forest. With Discord turned to stone, there was nothing they needed to be guarded from.
Luna entered the office's foyer, striding purposefully. She saw a desk at the far end of the office. Behind the desk stood a light yellow pegasus, and a crimson unicorn stood to its side. The two were engaged in quiet conversation.
Luna shrugged and cleared her throat softly. No need to make a big deal of my entrance, she thought.
"GREETINGS, ponies of the NEW LUNAR REPUBLIC," she announced, filling the room with her powerful Royal Canterlot voice. "YOUR INSPIRATION hath arrived UPON your DOORSTEP! Pray tell, where DOTH we find the one named 'JOYOUS DAWN'."
The crimson unicorn turned around and bowed politely. "That would be me, your Highness. It is an honour and a privilege to finally meet you, Princess of the Night."
Princess Luna held out a hoof, which Dawn dutifully kissed, still maintaining her humble bowed position.
"WE have many QUESTIONS for THEE!" Luna barked.
"I can imagine you must," replied Dawn. "Please, follow me upstairs to my office, and I will do my best to tell you whatever you want to know."
Luna nodded gravely before following Dawn up the stairs to the left of the reception desk.
"I don't use my office very often, so I'm afraid it isn't very well-decorated," Dawn mentioned. "I'm a hooves-on kind of leader – I'd rather be out there, getting things done than sitting in a stuffy office."
Luna nodded approvingly.
As she soon discovered, Joyous Dawn's office was exactly as advertised – its main decorations were the reams and reams of paperwork, magazines and newspapers that lay strewn across every available surface – especially the floor.
"My secretary suggested having shelves installed, but I'm in my element in this kind of organized chaos," Dawn explained. "Shelves are where you put books and papers when you want them to sit around getting dusty – I'd rather use the whole floor as a shelf and keep everything readily accessible. It's important to keep one's hoof on the pulse of events in this politics business, as I'm sure you're well aware."
"YES," Luna replied, holding her head up proudly. "WE ARE INTIMATELY ACQUAINTED with the MANY NUANCES AND FACETS OF POLITICAL DEALINGS!"
"And that's why I'm sure we'll get along spectacularly, your Highness," Dawn replied, her voice firmly mired in a sincerity backed up by her serious gaze. "You are a wise and powerful ruler, and your voice resonates with the confidence that defines you. How do you do it?"
Luna blushed slightly at the compliment, fighting to keep her haughty and regal demeanour.
"I've always been inspired by you, Princess Luna," Dawn continued. "It was your reappearance on the throne in Canterlot that brought me into politics, you know. My party – not to mention my country – owes you an immense amount of gratitude."
"Um, yes," replied Luna. "Yes, that is, uh... that is why we sought thy audience."
"I hope you don't find me presumptuous!" Dawn gasped. "I assure you, your Majesty, I had only the noblest and most respectful of intentions when I used your name to inspire the members of my party, and our prospective voters. You must understand, Princess, that you have done a great deal for our island. Without you, we would not be the 'Lunar Republic', after all."
"This is true..."
"Please, Princess Luna, have a seat. Take my chair – it's the fanciest piece of furniture I own."
The Princess did as she was requested and rested on the wide, soft chair behind the office's paper-covered desk. Dawn swiftly deposited the desk's papers on the floor and took a seat in front of the desk, in the chair her guests would usually use.
Dawn wasted no time in continuing her speech. "Princess Luna, since you returned to Equestria, the long-forgotten circumstances of your original banishment have come into popular knowledge once more. I know that you felt underappreciated all those years ago, and I cannot say how sorry I am for the acts of my ancestors, whom you gave the gift of your moon's magic. They were ungrateful and insensitive."
Luna leaned forward in her seat. Dawn was speaking very earnestly and looked as if she might cry.
"I promote you in my party because I cannot let that happen again, Princess Luna. You are a good and kind princess, and you deserve the love and adoration of those you serve so selflessly. So, Princess Luna, will thou allowest me to – in my own minute capacity – bring thee the fame and respect that thou deservest?"
Luna didn't answer right away, to which Dawn gracefully conceded. The two mares spent the rest of the afternoon discussing politics and the welfare of their two nations. Dawn did most of the talking, but Luna chimed in where she could, her voice growing softer and gentler all the while.
Eventually, though, Princess Luna's softened voice found a hard edge.
"So, what thou art saying is..." she began, screwing up her eyes. "What thou art saying is that we should abandon our sister and come to thy Republic?"
Dawn's eyes flared with shock momentarily. "Well, your Highness, I wouldn't put it like that, but-"
"I see," Luna replied sternly. "We are interested in discovering why thou holdest that opinion."
Dawn took a deep breath and readjusted the spectacles on her nose. "I'm going to be frank with you, your Majesty. The ponies here like you. I'm sure you've seen their smiling faces and the way they mob around you whenever you come into town. Lunar Republicans treat the Princess of the Night with the respect she deserves."
"Miss Dawn," Luna replied, a stern expression on her face. "To go where we are most 'liked' would be an act of selfishness unbefitting of a princess. We are the night, and our sister is the day. How can night be without day?"
Dawn bit her lip.
Luna continued, "Yes, we are aware that day was without night for one thousand years. We are aware that for the entire lives of thy generation and the ones preceding it, the name 'Luna' was forgotten. But that was not how things were supposed to be, and to force our sister to reign alone once more... It is unthinkable."
"But you misunderstand me," replied Dawn, speaking ever-so-softly. "I do not want your sister to be alone; I merely wish for a more active partnership between Equestria and the Lunar Republic. You have blessed our land, Princess Luna, and for that, you deserve a part in its governance. You deserve to reap the benefits of what you have sown."
The room was silent for a moment as Princess Luna carefully considered Dawn's words.
"Thou HAST give us a LOT to think about," she proclaimed, rising from her seat. "We shall SLEEP on it."
"Thank you, your Majesty," Dawn replied silkily. "I am certain that whatever decision you come to will be wise and well thought-out."
***
The trio were on the road once more, having picked up a few necessities that now weighed down their saddlebags before leaving town. White Noise had done his best to push any thoughts of trains out of his mind and was trudging along, focusing on the dull aching in his hooves.
Sky was still feeling a little embarrassed about her outburst, but her thoughts of the strike itself had largely been overshadowed by something the conductor had told her – something she didn't understand.
"Hey Sibwashie," she said, glancing at the silent zebra walking next to her. "What's a 'drought'?"
If he was at all taken aback by Sky's comment, Sibwashie did not show it, merely stating: "A drought is what happens when it doesn't rain somewhere for a long time. Things dry out, and crops die."
"But why wouldn't it rain where there are crops?" Sky asked. "I mean, my mom always told me that farms were the very first places to get fresh supplies of clouds."
"Yes, I am sure that is the case," Sibwashie replied, "in Equestria. Sadly, Zebrica does not have floating cities full of cloud factories, or the winged ponies to staff them. Here, we get our clouds from what the wind is kind enough to blow over our land and what griffon weather-importers are able to requisition and transport from Equestria."
"So, then, if you can't get enough..."
"Drought. The winds have not been kind to us this year."
"But, but won't zebras... starve?"
Sibwashie smiled reassuringly. "Thankfully our government has made plans for things like droughts. Zebrica has just had to increase its imports – I'm sure it's caused a strain on finances, but zebras shouldn't starve."
"It's awful that you have to live at the whims of natural forces here, Sibwashie," White Noise added. "It's unnatural."
"I, too, regret that nature has not provided us zebra with floating cloud factories," Sibwashie replied.
"Good thing we ponies can do something to help you guys," White continued, completely blasé. "Why, I remember experimenting with food delivery via dragonfire back in my student days... not that that ended well..."
At the urging of his companions, White reluctantly divulged the stories of some of his less-than-successful magical communication experiments. The journey's mood lifted significantly as the three travellers laughed with each other.
"... and that's why you should NEVER practice voice projection on an empty stomach..."
***
Correspondence's improved Dragonfire Digests did not sell well. The first one was finished toward noon and couldn't be sold because it needed to be used to make further copies. Even with Melvin's help, the two did not build up a respectable pile of digests until it was time to close the shop for the evening.
The following day, however, Correspondence found himself frantically scribbling new copies – no easy feat for an earth pony – as Melvin sold every single one they had in a matter of hours.
"Well, Corr, it looks like we've really hit a nerve with this," Melvin said as they closed up the shop for the night once more, this time with considerably higher spirits. "Let's split the profits sixty-five thirty-five – I am a generous employer, and you did a great job summarising all that news."
"Yes, thank you sir," replied Corr, scooping the bits Melvin presented him with into his saddlebag.
Correspondence said goodnight to his new boss, and Melvin found himself alone, staring at his (and White Noise's) share of the day's earnings. He poked at the bits with a claw, trying to decide how much to apportion to White and how much to keep for himself.
I did come up with the digest idea all on my own, Melvin thought, and it's based on the newspaper idea that I had before... all on my own. I also spent a lot of time physically making the digests today. Why should I give White Noise any of this money? I earned it – it should be mine!
Melvin gazed loving at the bits on the counter for a moment, and then quickly gathered them up and added them to his private stash – a collection of shiny bits that was growing at a very pleasing rate. I'm going to run out of space under the counter if this keeps up! he thought gleefully.
Yawning widely, Melvin decided it was time to go to sleep. He started making his way to the back room, where his bed sat, surrounded by extra jars of dragonfire and his beloved Trixie poster, but something stopped him.
Melvin looked at his stash of bits and suddenly got a very strange idea. With a flourish, he knocked the bits out from under the counter. They clattered to the floor, spreading out across its length. Melvin's eyelids drooped, and he sank to his knees.
A clawed hand reached up to place a pair of round glasses on the counter, and then Melvin was out. He slept soundly on his bed of shiny bits, dreaming of all the bits that were to join them.
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Ezn
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997
| 10 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-08-11T19:14:21+00:00
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2013-01-13T04:22:23+00:00
| 2,558 |
Chapter Ten
Nightfall found the three travellers trudging along the dirt road through the Zebrican plains, still far from the next town along their route.
"Are you sure we didn't take a wrong turn?" asked Sky. "I don't see any inns around here."
"It was clearly marked on the map," White Noise replied curtly. "I'm sure it's right over the next hill."
"I'll be the judge of that," Sky replied indignantly.
With that, she flapped her wings and soared up into the air, soon flying past the hill. She scanned the ground that spread out beyond it, squinting to make things out in the darkness.
"I can't see anything down there!" she shouted back to her companions. "Nothing except more grass and trees."
White Noise sighed heavily as Sky landed back with her companions.
"Well, maybe we did take a wrong turn somewhere," he admitted. "I guess I should have asked you to fly up and check, instead of placing all my confidence in this cheap map – piece of junk."
"What should we do now?" Sibwashie asked, interjecting calmly.
"I guess we should just keep walking," White suggested. "It's not like we really have a choice. If we need to, we'll find some comfortable grass to sleep on."
The three travellers exchanged glances. White shrugged and they continued walking.
***
"I don't... think that that's an inn," said Sky, battling to keep her eyes open.
The three of them had been walking through the night for hours, with only the light of the lantern they'd purchased in Molaro to guide them. They had passed many trees, gone over many small hills and navigated a number of places along the road where the grass had grown to almost pony-height, but this was the first time they had come across any sign of civilisation.
"It looks like it could function as one though," White added hopefully.
To the right of the road, a gravel path led to a large brick mansion. Two neatly-trimmed walls of hedges lined the path and were themselves surrounded by a well-maintained garden, full of boxy flowerbeds and straight rows of trees. The contrast this had with the wild, sparsely foliaged plains around it was quite jarring.
"I am not averse to sleeping under the stars," Sibwashie stated, "but I feel that it would be a mistake to pass by this establishment without at least finding out a little bit more about it."
"Alright, let's do that," replied White. "Guess it can't hurt."
The travellers made their way up the gravel path towards the mansion's large wooden doors. Sibwashie made a movement to grab the knocker with his mouth, but White held up a hoof to stop him.
"I think I've got this," he said, closing his eyes and furrowing his brow in concentration.
White's horn glowed faintly, and the knocker soon followed suit, slowly rising into the air, and then falling back down as White released his magic. He smiled to himself as the knocker hit the door, and then proceeded to repeat the process two more times.
"It shouldn't be too much longer until I'm back in action," he told his companions cheerfully.
Before they could respond, the sounds of locks being released and heavy latches being lifted were heard from beyond the door, followed by a creaking as it slowly opened.
"Hello," said the pony at the door. "What brings you here? It's not often that I have guests."
The speaker was a gaunt blue pegasus, his mane and tail white from age. He wore a rumpled black tuxedo with a large red bowtie and had a neatly trimmed white goatee. His brown eyes twinkled warmly, and his facial expression showed the beginnings of a smile.
Sibwashie was the first to speak:
"Wise father, we feel that we are truly fortunate to have chanced upon this stately nest
With your permission and the necessary fee, we ask that you accommodate our rest."
"No 'fee' is necessary, young travellers!" the old pegasus said with a smile. "Of course I'll let you spend the night in my house – it's far too big for just one pony, and lately, I've been rather lonely."
Showering the old pony with thanks, the three hurried into the mansion.
"You can call me Mr Drifter. I was quite the globetrotter in my youth, so I sympathise with your situation entirely. Please, let my escort you to the guest wing – you all look positively exhausted!"
The mansion looked even larger from the inside than it did from the outside. A long stretch of red carpeting cut across a hard stone floor and scurried up the wide staircase the dominated the room the travellers had just entered. An enormous glass chandelier hung above their heads, and colourful tapestries hung on the walls around them.
White, Sky and Sibwashie glanced down at their dusty hooves self-consciously, feeling very out-of-place amidst the grand proportions of the room's entrance hall.
"Welcome to my humble abode," Mr Drifter chattered as he led his guests up the wide staircase and down the hall to the left. "I had it transported here from Equestria, you know – flown and teleported brick by brick!"
As the three travellers marvelled at the scale of such an operation, Mr Drifter swiftly brought them to the advertised guest wing. Using a wing, he pointed each of them to what would be their rooms, mentioning little bits of trivia as he went.
"... that room was once occupied by Galineigho... the telescope stand is still attached to the window... and that one once hosted Marey, Queen of Oats..."
"Thank you for your generosity," White Noise eventually said, cutting Mr Drifter off. "We really are very grateful for such hospitality."
"And these rooms!" Sky interjected, having just peeked behind her door. "They're the most beautiful rooms I've ever seen!"
Mr Drifter smiled at White and latched onto Sky's excitement with a twinkle in his eye. "I would expect that to be the case, Ms Wave. Whatever positive things you can say about the cloud buildings we pegasi usually live in, nothing else ever quite compares to the majesty of a good, old-fashioned, earth-bound structure made out of solid stone."
White's eyelids drooped. I could really go for the majesty of a soft bed right now, he thought.
"Oh!" Mr Drifter exclaimed, noticing Sibwashie stifle a large yawn. "How rude of me! You three must be dying to get to sleep. Well, you know where your rooms are, so let me not keep you up any longer."
After a final round of profuse thanks, Mr Drifter trotted off to his own bedroom, and the three travellers entered their own. Sibwashie and White Noise had neighbouring rooms, and Sky Wave's was just across the hallway.
"Night everypony!" Sky said cheerfully.
"Good night."
"Night."
***
Sibwashie stood on the edge of a great cliff, looking out at the plains of inland Zebrica. The veld was sporadically dotted by low, wide trees and herds of elephants, rhinos and wildebeest roamed around in the long grass.
He turned around to face a small village behind him. A few zebras milled around the dirt huts with their thatched roofs. Many wore colourful cloaks and saddlebags, and a group in the center of the village were trying on elongated wooden masks. Smiling at this peaceful scene, Sibwashie trotted forward to enter the village.
He was stopped in his tracks by a sudden chill in the air. The wind's direction changed, and Sibwashie felt his mane bristle against it. The zebras in the village lost their carefree demeanours and turned to face him, their eyes blank of expression. The expressions on the wooden masks seemed to contort into severe frowns.
Sibwashie opened his mouth to protest, but no words came from it. In their place, a torrent of glowing cyan light flooded out, wrapping the entire village in its sparkly glow.
At first, the magical glowing did nothing but obscure the true colours of the village and its inhabitants, but soon enough, larger changes became evident.
The yellow bales of dried grass, charming in their unevenness, morphed into painted planks of wood. The circular huts started growing corners, and the dirt flecked away from their walls to reveal stone and wood. The black stripes on the zebras' faces began to fade to white.
Sibwashie felt a sharp pain in his forehead and glanced upwards to see a horn, alit with magic.
He awoke with a start, breathing heavily. A film of sweat drenched his face, and he felt his heart thumping against his ribs.
Sibwashie put a forehoof to his forehead. Everything's fine, he thought. It was just a dream.
Collapsing his head against his pillow, Sibwashie tried to go back to sleep.
***
The three travellers awoke almost simultaneously the following morning, as their weeks on the road had taught them to. They met in the hallway just outside their rooms and headed downstairs together, hoping they would be able to find Mr Drifter in the great big rambling house.
"Mornin' everypony," White Noise yawned. "I slept very well last night – these beds are amazing! I trust you two had a good night's sleep as well?"
"Well, actually..." Sibwashie began, remembering his strange dream.
"I kept waking up from nightmares!" Sky blurted out. "...The beds are very comfy, though. You've got that right!"
"Hmm, well, that's unfortunate," White replied, his cheerful expression dampened by the sour ones on his friends' faces. "I wonder if there's any specific reason for it... I had some friends who studied dreams back at the school... fascinating stuff, it was..."
"Why don't we go downstairs and find Mr Drifter?" Sky suggested, the hole in her stomach making her less receptive to another of White Noise's school stories. "Perhaps we can have breakfast with him before we hit the road!"
"Well, I wouldn't want to be a burden," White replied, "but I suppose it'll be okay if he offers. He seems like the type who might."
White, Sky and Sibwashie made their way down the hall and towards the stairs, their hooves barely making a sound as they traversed the house's thick carpeting. On their way, they glanced at the many portraits of stern-looking, long-dead mares and stallions: presumably previous occupants of the castle.
As soon as the group reached the top of the stairs, a cheerful voice called up to them. "Ah, there you lot are! Come on down here, you're up just in time for breakfast!"
Mr Drifter was smiling up at his guests from the first floor of the manor, clad in the same – or at least a similar – black tuxedo with a red bowtie from the previous night. Probably the same one, mused Sky Wave. I wonder if he even has an iron in this great big house of his.
The travellers made their way down the stairs and were quickly ushered into the kitchen by a their host.
***
"I've always been a firm believer in labour-saving devices," Mr Drifter said. "They're the way of the future, you know!"
Drifter and his guests were seated around a small wooden table in the manor's kitchen, eating a traditional Equestrian breakfast of oats, hay and some barley, with a course of toast, marmalade and some coffee to wash it down. The breakfast and the table were arguably the most traditional things about the room.
Everything else – the fridge, the stove, the toaster – was covered by multitudes of metal manipulating appendages. The appendages were long, thin metal rods with various devices mounted on their ends, the most common of which was a grabbing device that strongly resembled a dragon's claw.
White, Sky and Sibwashie had been a little taken aback by the way their food had been prepared and served by dozens of spindly machines, but soon found themselves marvelling at the speed and efficiency of the automated kitchen. Sky reckoned that it probably made fewer mistakes and dropped fewer plates than a regular pony chef-slash-waiter.
"An old friend of mine made everything you see here," Mr Drifter continued. "Those earth pony engineers are something else!"
"Indeed they are," White Noise replied knowingly.
"The system didn't run nearly this smoothly at first, of course. Old Cogwork and I had to work out a lot of kinks just to stop it from endangering the lives of the ponies it was trying to feed! Of course, he did most of the work – I would just mention that 'the stove's left arm moves a tad fast, old boy' or 'maybe you should make that bit out of flame-retardant material'; things like that."
"I'm sure you were a greater help than you realised," Sky said sweetly.
"Thank you, dear – perhaps you're right! I certainly helped with all the testing meals we made – blew me up like a balloon, all the food did."
Sibwashie stifled a harsh glare, pushing thoughts of the country's drought and the famine it was creating out of his mind. It will not do to be rude to Mr Drifter, he thought to himself. A pony this rich has to be influential as well; even if he lives in the middle of nowhere.
"Why not head out into the garden with me?" Mr Drifter suggested, changing the subject as he noticed that his guests had finished eating. "It's not very often that I have guests, and it's such a terrible shame that my beautiful garden never gets to delight anypony else."
"That sounds lovely," replied Sky Wave, already getting up from her place at the table. "We'd really appreciate a chance to see your garden up close, Mr Drifter."
"Excellent!" Drifter beamed, his eyes scrunching up against his cheeks. "Please, follow me – oh, don't worry about the dishes, Mr Sibwashie! They'll take care of themselves."
Sibwashie placed his breakfast crockery back on the table and got up with the others to visit the garden. His ears picked up the sound of the mechanical arms grabbing plates and dunking them into sinks of soapy water as he exited.
***
The manor's back garden was even larger and more astounding than the gathering of plantlife that furnished the front of the building. Where the front garden had short, neatly trimmed hedges, the back garden had rows of tall, pointy conifers, many of which poked their tops above the slanted roof that sat upon manor's three-storey frame. Where the front garden had flowerbeds of daffodils and daisies, the back garden grew a more eclectic collection of Heart's Desire, Windroot and Manalily – there was even a specially-cordoned-off bed full of Poison Joke.
"Welcome to my garden, filly and gentlecolts," Mr Drifter said, beaming with pride as a made a sweeping gesture towards the garden with a forehoof. "This place is the fruit of my life's labour; the sum total of my long and numerous endeavours! Please, look around freely, and do not hesitate to ask about any of the trees and plants on display."
Sibwashie gazed up at a strong, tall oak tree to his left, frowning ever so slightly. Making a mental note to be polite, he caught Mr Drifter's attention with a wave of his hoof.
"This garden is a great achievement, with trees and flowers from all over the earth
But in the dry Zebrican climate, how do you give them each the water they're worth?" he asked.
Mr Drifter's eyes twinkled as he responded. "That's where being a pegasus pony comes in handy, my boy!"
He fluttered his wings and pointed a hoof at the door of a small square building, semi-detached from the manor. "I keep a healthy stock of clouds in my storeroom over there, and whenever the garden needs some water, it's a simple matter of pulling out a cloud and hopping on it a few times."
"How do you get your clouds, may I ask?" Sibwashie began.
"Griffon freelancers; with them it's an easy task," Drifter replied nonchalantly.
White Noise, who had been staring intently at one of the flowerbed and rubbing his chin with a forehoof, suddenly spoke up. "How do you manage to grow the Beneviolet here, Mr Drifter? Surely it can't survive away from the magic of its natural habitat."
"Astute question. The answer: it's Lesser Beneviolet – Much Lesser Beneviolet, I'd call it. I bolster it by surrounding each individual flower with a circle of Manalilies, but if you were to pluck it and eat it right now, the best it could do is cure a papercut or maybe an upset tummy."
White Noise nodded with satisfaction. Sky Wave then pretended to gaze intently at the short, not-at-all-exotic lawn while she tried to come up with an intelligent-sounding question for Mr Drifter to answer.
"I could probably increase the potency of the Beneviolets a little if I used some magic harvested from my Poison Joke collection," Drifter mused, talking more to himself than anypony else, "but I don't really like to mess around with that stuff unnecessarily. I ended up with crossed eyes last time I did that."
"Crossed eyes?" asked White Noise, thinking back to what he'd learnt about Poison Joke in Introductory Alchemy.
"Oh!" Drifter exclaimed, suddenly yanked from his thoughts. "I don't suppose I ever told you travellers what my special talent is. And you couldn't have guessed either, what with the way this silly tuxedo (why do I wear such an outfit in this heat?) hides my cutie mark."
With that, Mr Drifter lifted one of his tuxedo's twin tails to reveal a picture of a weathered brown rolled-up map on his flank.
"You're a pirate!" Sky gasped.
"No, no, but my parents had the same concern!" Drifter assured, laughing to himself. "Before I retired, I was a cartographer – a maker of maps. But I was no ordinary mapmaker, no... I was also an explorer! I've always believed that mapping is about knowing, and there's no knowing without going!"
White nodded slowly.
"So, you see, the crossed eyes made it quite impossible for me draw maps, or to read them, for that matter!" Drifter quickly added, remembering White's question. "Of course, the joke was on the Joke, because I'm retired!"
Mr Drifter laughed heartily at his own joke, and his guests joined him with polite, rather more restrained laughter.
"It is so very nice to have company!" Drifter gushed. "You can't imagine how lonely it gets out here sometimes... I have my plants, my machines and my maps for company, but between you and me, I think they're starting to drive me mad..."
"Company alone cannot possibly be enough to repay your hospitality, Mr Drifter," White said, clearing his throat. "Please, allow us to give you a reasonable fee for –"
"Ha!" Drifter cried, waving White Noise off with a hoof. "Trust me, son, I'm much happier to have some company than having more money! I've got more of that than I'll ever know what to do with – I don't need to add to it."
"But, surely there's something more we can do for you," White pleaded.
Drifter put a hoof to his chin and thought for a moment before responding. "Well, some of my machines could do with a recharging, Mr Noise. Severing is so very much more effective than Manalilies and so much less hazardous than Poison Joke extract."
"That's actually the one thing I can't offer," White apologised, rubbing the back of his neck. "I severed my entire magic supply a few weeks ago, and it's been really slow in recovering. Right now I can barely lift a knife and fork."
"Well, that's a shame... but at least now I don't have to apologise for not having any of that funny unicorn cutlery stuff in the house!"
"Yeah, that's... something."
Smiling at his joke, Mr Drifter glanced casually at the watch on his left foreleg, and then looked back up at his guests, obviously preparing to launch into another of his speeches. Before he could even open his mouth, his eyes widened in realisation and he stared back at his watch.
"Oh my!" he cried. "My new shipment of clouds should be here! Since five minutes ago! Please excuse me while I go fetch that."
With that, Drifter flapped his wings and took off, flying over the manor instead of going through it.
Sky approached White. "Are you sure there's nothing wrong with you? Your magic is really taking its time to regenerate. Maybe you should find a unicorn doctor or something."
"I don't think I'm going to find any 'unicorn doctors' in Zebrica, Sky," White said, sighing heavily, "but you do have a point. My magic should be back to full strength by now. Even after that thing at the orchard, it's had plenty of time to recover. I don't know why I'm struggling like this."
Sibwashie stepped up to the two ponies and joined the conversation: "White, you mentioned a while ago that you were able to cast the spell that saved my life because of the relationship between magic and friendship. Perhaps you should look into that."
"An interesting idea, Sibwashie, but I don't know that I can," White replied. "From what Twilight Sparkle told me, I know only that 'friendship' between ponies has some sort of enhancing effect on magic. From my own experience, I can say that seeing my friends in danger recharges by magic by a large degree. Beyond that, friendship's exact relationship to magic isn't something I can pin down or use in any practical way."
A sudden breeze blew across the garden, ruffling the ponies' manes and breaking against Sibwashie's mohawk. A leaf detached from a large oak tree and slowly drifted down the ground.
CRACK!
A sudden, lound thundercrack sounded from in front of the house, startling the travellers.
"What was that?" Sky asked, looking up at the cloudless blue sky.
"Sounded like Mr Drifter's testing his new clouds," White replied calmly.
CRACK! CRACK!
"AAAAH!"
Hearing the sudden scream from the front of the house, Sky flicked her wings out and took off. "I don't think there's supposed to be screaming..."
White and Sibwashie nodded to each other and were already galloping back through the manor as Sky flew over its roof.
***
Sky flew over the roof of the manor and into view of the front garden. She scanned the dirt road beyond the short, neat hedge walls and spotted a dark-brown, wooden caravan, parked directly in front of the path leading to the manor's front door.
Mr Drifter was standing just in front of the caravan, talking to three scruffy-looking figures. A particularly feathery one was holding a dark storm cloud right above his head, ready to strike him with lightning.
Sky let out a low squeak, immediately covering her mouth with her forehooves and hoping that she hadn't been seen.
"Hey! You there," shouted a gravelly voice. "Get down here, or the old guy gets it!"
Her eyes filled with dread, Sky meekly complied.
"That's a good girl," the gravelly voice continued, its tone now edged with menacing mock-kindness.
Sky landed between the gap in the low hedge walls in at the edge of the front garden. She could now see the three new arrivals very clearly, and they weren't a welcome sight.
A zebra mare and brown-coated earth pony mare stood on either side of a grizzled male griffon, whose right eye was covered by an eyepatch. The griffon gripped a small black cloud in his talons, which he was holding inches from the frightened face of a very pale Mr Drifter.
"Now just play along, and no-one gets hurt," the zebra rasped.
"I'll do as you ask! No need to be curt," Sky replied, suddenly getting a very cheeky idea. "Say, do you like oranges?"
The zebra replied with a swift slap across Sky's face. "Not everyzebra does that cute little rhyme thing, featherbrain."
"Hey! Leave her alone!" shouted a voice from the manor's door.
"What? There are more of you?!" the earth pony shouted.
White Noise and Sibwashie swiftly galloped to Sky's side, doing their best to look intimidating by scrunching their faces up in determined scowls.
"There sure are!" White Noise said confidently. "Now, you'd better tell us just what it is that –"
CRACK!
White was cut off mid-sentence by another loud thundercrack. A bolt of lightning shot up into the sky, briefly turning everything white.
A faint plume of smoke rose from the uplifted talons of the one-eyed griffon. "Enough!"
The griffon slowly brought his cloud back down into Mr Drifter's face. His beak twisted into a cruel smile. "You are going to co-operate with us, my little ponies. You are going to take us to where Grampa here keeps his clouds, or Grampa is going to light up like a firecracker."
Sky nudged her companions in the ribs, silently urging them to do as the griffon said. Sighing, they bowed their heads in defeated nods.
"Follow us," Sky said softly.
The seven creatures slowly marched to the still-open front door of the manor. Mr Drifter tried to eek out a "thank you" to his guests, but was cut short by a low growl from the griffon.
***
The strange group made their way through the manor's ground floor and out into its back garden. Sky lead them, while the griffon dragged Mr Drifter along with him and the mares, brandishing knives in their mouths, kept four focused eyes on White and Sibwashie.
"There it is," Sky said, pointing a hoof at the small building built into the back of the manor. "Mr Drifter... he told us that the clouds are in there."
"Good," growled the griffon. "Now, ladies, please take care of Grampa, Needlehead and Stripes. Ribbonflank, you come with me. You're going to help move the clouds."
White, Sibwashie and Mr Drifter were ushered back into the kitchen, where they were held at knife-point while the mares used some rope from their fraying saddlebags to tie them each to one of the kitchen's many mechanical arms. At the griffon's request, Mr Drifter was gagged.
Sibwashie glanced at the hard brown eyes of the zebra mare and felt the need to say something.
"Sister, why are you doing this? It is not the way of our people to steal
If you have fallen on hard times, you know anyzebra will give you a meal."
The zebra frowned and glared at Sibwashie.
"Heh. A traditional," she smirked. "Well, brother, if you're so concerned about 'the way of our people', then maybe you should have thought twice before entering the home of The Drier."
"The Drier?" White Noise asked.
"The one you call 'Drifter'," the zebra replied, sighing. "He stores up this country's precious few clouds, drying our land and killing our crops. He cares not for the plight of the zebra – only for his precious garden."
Sibwashie let out a sharp breath. Mr Difter's garden was the greenest part of Zebrica he'd seen since getting off the boat at Molaro.
"We are taking The Drier's clouds to the people of Zebrica – the ones who need them to survive. The Drier can go arrange his flowers back in pony land."
Composing himself, Sibwashie quickly prepared a couplet.
"Why do you steal? You could have just said please.
Mr Drifter is wealthy; he gives kindly and with ease."
White Noise nodded enthusiastically at Sibwashie's words. "He'd probably throw in a free breakfast!"
White and Sibwashie's captors both had their backs to Mr Drifter, so they could not see him nodding enthusiastically, or starting to tear up.
"I do not believe it," the zebra said. "Now stop bothering me, or I will have Quarry gag you as well."
The earth pony's eyes flashed at the mention of her name, and she grinned menacingly at White and Sibwashie, her knife still clasped between her teeth. White caught a glance of her flank – three jagged rocks, arranged haphazardly.
"I'm sure you would find her special talent very intriguing, Mister Unicorn. However, I doubt you would be able to write a dissertation on it after I ask her to give you a demonstration."
White gulped and smiled nervously. "I'll... take your word for it, Miss..."
"Siela, if you must know. Now why don't we all introduce ourselves and have a little tea party? I'm sure you would enjoy that very much, Mister Pony."
***
The door of the cloud storage room was not locked. The one-eyed griffon was pleased at this; he explained to Sky that he had left his crowbar in the caravan and was glad that he would not have to waste his valuable time fetching it.
"Now, here's how this is going to work," he growled, narrowing his good eye at Sky. "You are going to float all the clouds that you can handle out of this storeroom, over the house and into the back of my caravan. It's enchanted, so there will be enough space."
The griffon then raised a sharp talon to Sky's nose, gently touching its tip. "If you try anything – anything at all – I will make your pretty little face look just like mine. So unless you want to go eyepatch shopping on your little Zebrican vacation, you won't try to escape, or call for help, or fight me."
Sky took a deep breath and nodded vigorously. "Y-yes sir."
"You don't want to test me, girl. I lost this eye in a fight with a dragon, and I was the lucky one."
Turning towards the small storage room, Sky noticed that its door opened up into thin air. Instead of a floor, the room descended into inky blackness. I wonder how far down this goes... she thought, peering over the threshhold.
Suddenly, Sky felt a cold set of talons touch her flanks. Before she could react, the griffon behind the talons gave her a hefty shove, knocking her off her hooves and down the hole.
Seconds later, Sky's wings flicked out, and she caught herself in the air. Recovering from unexpected dives was one of the first things young pegasi learnt at flight school, so she was a little put out by the griffon's conduct, but not flustered or hurt. I probably should have been expecting that, she thought.
Flapping her wings steadily, Sky looked around. She saw nothing, as the room was still quite dark. Apparently Mr Drifter, for all his love of technology and labour-saving devices, had not had automatic lights installed in his windowless, underground room. Sky listened to the flapping of her wings and pondered trying to use echolocation for a moment.
The flapping of Sky's wings was joined by the striking of a match, followed by a crackling sound. A light appeared behind her as the one-eyed griffon entered the room, torch in talon.
"Wow," remarked Sky, seeing the room for the first time as the torch's light illuminated it. "This place is huge!"
"Much like my future bank balance," the griffon quietly snarled.
The cloud storeroom was twice as tall as it was wide, and a thick layer of clouds shrouded its floor. Sky estimated that it was at one fourth of its cloud-storing capacity. A sharp one-eyed glare told her that she would need to bring that percentage down speedily if she valued her life.
Meekly staring down into the cloud blanket, Sky dived down and gathered some of it between her four hooves. Gathering the clouds was a lot like gathering up huge swaths of cotton candy, but less sticky, and – as Sky had disappointedly discovered as a foal – not as tasty.
Thinking back to her attempt to eat clouds as a foal helped calmed Sky's nerves, and she tried to pretend she was back in Weather Organisation class at flight school. She had found it dreadfully boring as a foal, but imagining the one-eyed griffon as the dour Ms Rain gave her some small solace.
Ms Rain had always been very particular about what she liked to call "conservation of energy". She would always insist that the children in her class take as much cloud matter in their hooves as possible before moving it around, and preached the importance of carefully planning the positioning and size of every cloud before even thinking about actually placing any.
"That's good," Ms Rain said in a bored voice. "Now fly those clouds up and put them in the caravan."
"Yes m– sir." Sky's breath caught in her throat as her reminiscence shattered around her.
The griffon narrowed an eye at her. "I'm not a big fan of comedy."
Sky gulped nervously. She and the griffon, each carrying as much cloud as they could, flew out of the storeroom, over the roof of the manor and to the griffon's caravan. Foisting his clouds onto Sky, the griffon swiftly swung the caravan's back double-doors open and stared into its gaping interior.
Sky peeked through the mountain of clouds that was making her resemble a snowpony very closely, and her jaw dropped at the size of the caravan's interior. *It must be at least THREE times the size of Mr Drifter's storeroom!* she thought.
"Impressive, isn't it?" the griffon boasted. "Used to belong to a very famous, very talented unicorn. She... left it to me as a gift, in exchange for a favour. I find that you ponies are nice like that."
Under the griffon's watchful eye, Sky obediently floated the mass of the clouds into the caravan's cavernous depths, barely taking up any space inside it at all.
The two fliers made a few more trips between the storeroom and the caravan without incident. Sky's mind was reeling with plans to thwart the theft, but the griffon was too attentive. Although he had half Sky's vision, she was sure he was at least twice as observant.
"You thinkin' of pushing me in there and locking the door?" the griffon asked, upon packing the last of Mr Drifter's clouds into the caravan. "I wouldn't, if I were you."
"N-no, I wasn't," Sky stammered.
"Good. It's my caravan, and I know it like the back of my wing. There's a secret exit that I like to come out of when I want to... surprise ponies like you."
With that, the griffon slammed the caravan doors and slid a padlock onto them, locking it with a key he had been concealing. He then turned to Sky, and his beak broke into a crooked smile. "I like you, kid."
Sky didn't like where he was going. "Uh..."
"You've been helpful, and you haven't tried to pull one over on ol' Eric Deadeye. I like that in a pony."
Sky smiled awkwardly, silently hoping for her life.
"It's not a very productive business, stealin' clouds with the help of two dirt-crawlers. I have to do all the dirty work, just because Siela and Quarry's useless little hooves can't grab clouds. It's a bit of a problem – but I think I've found the solution."
"Um... yay?"
"What's your name, Pinkfeathers?"
"Sky Wave, sir."
"Well, Sky Wave, how would you like to earn more bits than you've ever dreamed possible? You're a pegasus, and I need one of those on my little team if I'm going to make this thing work. Besides, you're a pretty filly, and I like the way you fly... could make a very usable distraction..."
Before Sky could reply, Eric thankfully changed the subject. "Well, first things first. Let's go see how our friends are doing, and then you can give me your answer."
Sky and Eric turned tail on the caravan and walked up to the manor in silence; the latter's menacing gaze staring a hole into the former's soul.
***
At the behest of Siela's strange sense of humour, Quarry raided Mr Drifter's kitchen cupboards and served tea and biscuits to herself, her companion and their prisoners. The two impromptu wardens gulped their tea down while the tea prepared for the prisoners sat untouched on the table, out of their reach.
White looked around at his fellow prisoners. Sibwashie was standing very still, staring at the wall with a stone-faced expression. Mr Drifter's eyes were closed, and he seemed to have dozed off.
"Mister Unicorn," Siela began, between licking stray drips of tea off her nose, "why do you not levitate your teacup to your mouth to drink from it? In 'my culture', it is very impolite to refuse food when it is offered to you."
White sighed heavily, anticipating the ridicule that would follow the statement he was about make. "My magic's not working very well at the moment. I... can't lift the cup from that far away."
"Hahaha!" Siela laughed. "A unicorn without magic! How pointless!"
Quarry smiled slightly, but said nothing.
"It is here that the magic of the zebras shows its true strength," Siela said, getting up from her place at the table and stepping towards White. "Our magic is gathered from the earth; we cook brews and fashion talismans without any need for your fancy horns. We do not have magic within ourselves like the high and mighty unicorn, but we are stronger for it. Ours is never a magic that 'doesn't work very well at the moment'."
Sibwashie cleared his throat.
"And speaking of us zebras," Siela growled, turning her attention to Sibwashie before he could open his mouth to speak. "You are exactly the type of zebra I despise, Brother. You uphold our customs, but you do not care for the people beneath those customs. All that poetic rhetoric does nothing but steal clouds from our skies and food from our tables! I may not be as proper as you, but I am a zebra where it counts, and I am not afraid to say what I feel!"
Sibwashie blinked, saying nothing.
"Just as I thought," Siela smirked. "Maybe I'll come back and talk to you again in a few minutes, once you've made your reply rhyme."
With that, she returned to her place at the kitchen table and nibbled at the remains of her biscuit.
White looked at Sibwashie. Neither of them had anything to say to the other.
***
"Hello, hello, everyone!" cried Eric as he pushed open the door of the manor's kitchen. "I hope that you all behaved well while Ms Wave and I were busy working!"
Eric's tone sent a shiver down Sibwashie's spine. It was cheerful, but had a very sharp edge of menace to it, as if Eric would turn from joy to violent rage at the slightest provocation. I don't want to be there when that happens, thought Sibwashie. I hope these jerks will just leave now that they've got what they came for.
"So you have collected The Drier's clouds?" asked Siela.
Eric nodded solemnly.
"Excellent," Siela continued. "Now we can take them to my family's farm – Mom and Dad will be so happy to see the rain again!"
A very small smile flicked across Eric's beak momentarily. White Noise was the only one to notice it.
"That is not the only good news," Eric replied. "I am also happy to announce that Ms Sky Wave here has agreed to become the newest member of our little team."
Sky felt as if she had been kicked in the stomach. White and Sibwashie cast forlorn looks at her, and the world started spinning as she shook her head in vigorous denial. What?! I never agreed to that! she screamed inside her head.
"There are many things I don't know about ponies," Eric began, turning to face Sky, his voice softer than it had been since she had met him, "but one of the things I do know is that when ponies shake their heads like that, it is not because they agree with what is being said."
Eric reached for Sky's face with his talons, brushing them across her fur very lightly. "I don't like it when ponies disagree with me. And when I don't like something..."
Eric slowly moved his right arm back. Sky was frozen to the spot. White Noise's eyes widened in horror. Sunlight streamed in through the kitchen window, reflecting off the golden surface of Eric's very, very sharp talons.
All of a sudden, time seemed to come to a halt for White Noise. He suddenly felt very detached; as if he was not in that kitchen, but was instead looking at a painting of it – a painting that showed a bound Sibwashie and Mr Drifter, two stoic ruffian equines, a griffon with a raised arm and a terrified Sky Wave.
It will be a shame to ruin her pretty little face, but it is important to inspire respect in my followers.
White Noise's head exploded with pain. He longed to grasp it with his hooves, but they remained bound to his sides.
That griffon's going to hurt Sky! Must... break... free!
White bit his lip. Thoughts were coming thick and fast, bombarding him right in the center of his mind. He felt his horn light up, but it was not by his command.
I do not entirely approve of Eric's barbaric practices, but I must put up with it for the sake of my family.
White's horn was throbbing with magic, more than he had felt for weeks. His head threatened to rip in two from his headache, but a small part of him was overjoyed.
I wonder if Eric will let me go next. She's a pegasus, so I'll focus on her feathers and pretend I'm beating on him.
I must say, Princess Luna, it was awfully nice of you to invite me for tea like this. I have always been an admirer of your work with the night sky...
The room exploded with cyan light as magic dripped from White's horn. His reserves were full, and still the magic kept building up. It needed to be released.
White Noise breathed in and closed his eyes. The thoughts – which he now knew to be the thoughts of everyone in the room around him – swirled around in his brain, waiting for him to take care of them. All he had to do was send each one on its way, to where it would do the most good.
That zebra sure is a stupid one. I can't believe she thinks I'm going to all this trouble just to help her pathetic little family. I've earned these clouds, and I'm going to make a fortune selling them!
That's the one, White thought, smiling.
Eric's thought shot off into Siela's mind on a bridge of cyan magic. Smiling, White turned his focus to a thought that had stood out to him earlier.
I wonder if Eric will let me go next. She's a pegasus, so I focus on her feathers and pretend I'm beating on him.
And this one's for Eric.
White breathed out, smiling serenely. Time resumed.
***
Sky shut her eyes tight, scrunching up her face. She was too scared to move, and could only stand there and wait for Eric's talons to rip into her skin.
"WAARGH!" came a primeval battle cry.
Strange, thought Sky. That doesn't sound like Eric.
A loud thud sounded from just in front of her, and Sky jumped back in fright, finally snapping out of her frozen fear. Keeping her eyes shut, she raised a tentative forehoof to her face. She felt no pain, no blood and no scar.
"HOW DARE YOU!" shouted Siela.
Sky opened her eyes to see a pile of striped limbs and feathers sprawled across the floor in front of her. Siela was slamming her hooves into Eric's face, hitting him over and over and over again.
"YOU TRAITOR!"
With a shrug, Quarry trotted over to the fighters and jumped into the fray, baring her teeth.
Sky averted her eyes from the fight, turning to look at her bound friends.
"Hurry!" shouted White. "Untie us before they kill each other! I mean, I don't like these guys, but, well, y'know..."
Sky nodded jerkily and untied the two ponies and the zebra in a flurry of hooves and teeth.
As the ropes fell around their feet, White wasted no time in lifting them with his newly recovered telekinesis and wrapping them around the fighting thieves, bringing them into a rather vicious and painful embrace.
"Kiss and make up, you guys," he said confidently, tying the rope in the most complicated knot he knew.
The thieves growled at White as they struggled at their bonds in futility.
"Oh my!" said an elderly voice from behind the three travellers. "I am growing more grateful for you guests every passing minute!"
Mr Drifter, who had just woken up, straightened his bowtie with a hoof and beamed at his rescuers.
"It really wasn't us," Sky was quick to mention. "They just started fighting inexplicably. It was really weird."
"Well, actually," White began, raising a hoof, "what happened was I... I..."
White Noise's face went whiter than usual, and his smile cracked. His head drooped and he squeaked out something barely audible.
"What have I done...?"
***
"Yes officer... yes, three travellers apprehended the gang on my estate... yes, that will be fine... thank you, officer."
The sound of Mr Drifter speaking to the police in the closest village on his two-way radio drifted out of the open door in the kitchen and into his tranquil garden.
The moon cast an eerie glow on the solitary figure of a unicorn sitting on the edge of Mr Drifter's back veranda, staring intently at the ground. The only movements White made were the gently, almost imperceptible rises and falls of his chest as he breathed out. Even his face was still – its serious expression may as well have been carved out of marble.
A soft patter of hooves gently probed the quiet around him, and Sky sat down next to him, her face turned up towards the stars instead of down to the ground.
White Noise didn't react to her presence.
"It's a nice night," she said softly. "I'm sure it's a great one for stargazing – that's something you Canterlot ponies do, right?"
It could have been Sky's imagination, but White's head seemed to nod just slightly.
"I'm glad everything worked out alright in the end," Sky continued. "The police should be here soon, but in the meantime Sibwashie's in there negotiating a deal between Mr Drifter and Siela, on behalf of her family. She seems like the most reasonable one of the bunch."
"Heh, yeah," White muttered, a bitter edge in his voice. "Reasonable. I guess one does tend to get 'reasonable' after one gets mind-controlled into it."
"White..."
"You don't need to sugarcoat it, Sky. I know what I did. What I can do. I finally understand all those weird dreams I've been having since that night on the Moonchaser, and I really wish I didn't."
The two ponies sat in silence for a moment. White continued to stare intently at the blades of grass growing just beyond the veranda, and Sky shifted her gaze from the stars to the moon.
"Those dreams you and Sibwashie told me about earlier," White continued. "The ones where he turned into a unicorn and you..."
"Teleported around the world on a surfboard made of green flame?"
"Yeah, those ones. I caused them – subconsciously. I was busy mind-controlling you guys in my sleep."
"Well, I wouldn't say –"
"I told you not to sugarcoat it!"
White snapped his head around and glared daggers at Sky, who shrank back with a quizzical look in her eyes.
Taking a deep breath, White rested his head in his hooves. "I'm sorry, Sky. It's just... well, I always knew communications magic was my special talent, but this... I'm not sure I should be allowed to have this kind of power."
"Think about what would have happened if you didn't have it."
Sky would have had her face cut in half by Eric, White thought. And then she would have been forced into joining his gang and going around stealing clouds and reselling them to desperate zebras at exorbitant prices.
"Sky..." White began, his mouth suddenly feeling quite dry. "I... I didn't think of it that way."
Sky Wave smiled at her friend, and then began to say something she'd been thinking about for a good few hours. "I understand that you're scared of this new power of yours, White. I know that it may seem bad and dangerous, but it can be used for good, and it was. Sibwashie and me, we're your friends. We'll help you figure this out."
White wanted to say thank you, but he couldn't find the words. Instead, he just smiled back at Sky, nodding weakly.
The two ponies embraced under the moon's soft glow.
|
Ezn
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997
| 11 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-08-09T06:53:50+00:00
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2013-01-13T04:30:18+00:00
| 2,676 |
Chapter Eleven
Clouds of dust blew up behind the wheels of a small wooden caravan drawn by a two expressionless zebras, who came to a stop a few metres before the end of the road. The dust settled.
Sky looked out of the window of Mr Drifter's caravan, at the cliffs of the Dragonian border. The foreboding walls of stone rose as far as the eye could see on both the left and right horizons. A steep, narrow, winding pathway starting from the end of the dirt road formed the only visible way past the wall.
Hearing the sound of a door opening behind her, Sky turned away from the window and followed her companions outside.
"Thanks for the lift, Mr Drifter!" said White Noise, turning around to face Drifter, who still stood in his caravan. "It must have cut our travel-time in half at least!"
"It's really my pleasure, Mr Noise," came the reply, as Drifter stuck his old head out of the caravan's back door. "You did a sterling job of recharging all my machines, after all. Oh, and you lot also saved my life… almost forgot that part! My, my, I am getting old!"
Sibwashie bowed to the caravan.
"Good father, we are forever in your debt
Your kind deeds are ones we shan't forget."
"And it was super nice of you to help out Siela's family and donate all the clouds you did!" Sky added.
Mr Drifter chuckled. "That's only the beginning of it, Miss Wave! If anything good came out of our ordeal, it's that it helped me realise that I've been too reclusive these past few years. I may be old, but I'll do some good in this world still – you'll see!"
A few more rounds of goodbyes later, the three travellers graciously thanked the caravan pullers and watched their ride disappear into the distance. Sibwashie looked out at Zebrica one last time before turning around to face the winding Skandar's Pass.
"Say, White, who was 'Skandar' anyway?" asked Sky, as the three trotted from the dusty road to the rocky one.
"Probably a dragon from ancient times," White replied. "I'm afraid they didn't teach us much about dragons at school, even though we worked alongside a whole bunch of them every day. I don't think there's much knowledge regarding dragons in Equestria at all."
"Zebrica fares no better," interjected Sibwashie. "Although we share a border with the dragons, and have favourable relations with their country, the amount we know about dragons might fill a slim pamphlet."
"They're a reclusive bunch," concluded White, "but that's why we're on this journey, after all. Maybe we can ask somedragon about who Skandar was."
"Speaking of somedragon..." Sky's words trailed off as the three rounded a bend in the pass and found that the road had widened considerably – enough to accommodate a massive wrought-iron gate that stood at least ten metres tall, next to which was the most enormous guardhouse any of the three had ever seen.
More interesting than any of that, however, was the long snout of a red, beady-eyed dragon that was poking out of the guardhouse's service window. Two columns of smoke wafted from his nostrils, and a great big blue conductor's hat sat upon his scaly head.
As the travellers' eyes widened at the sight of this great dragon, the dragon's own eyes narrowed at them.
A loud rasping sound cut into the ears of everypony present. "State your business, outsiders."
The travellers looked at each other. Sky pushed White forward a few inches before moving behind Sibwashie. He nodded at the pony who, despite being a close friend at this point, was still technically their employer and the one in charge of the expedition.
Clearing his throat and puffing out his chest, White Noise looked up at the dragon and said, "Greetings, sir. My name is White Noise, and I and my companions have travelled here from Equestria on a scientific mission. I am a magical scholar, specialising in communication, a topic which owes much to the innovations of your proud species. We wish to enter your land in order to learn from your own great magical scholars, and perhaps share some insights of our own."
The dragon blinked.
"Um, if you need a toll of some sort, then I've got some bits, or maybe a gemstone, if that's the accepted curr–"
"NO!" A spurt of orange flame erupted from the dragon’s mouth as he roared at White.
The travellers shrank back at this display. Was it something I said? wondered White.
"I cannot accept your currency, traveller," the dragon continued, composing himself. "But do not worry, I will still open the gate for you to pass through. Your cause seems noble... but if you are lying about it..."
A chill ran down White's spine as the dragon's snout twisted into a menacing grin.
"If you are lying – if your visit is ill-intentioned – then I do not think you very wise. Three puny ponies cannot hope to wrong a dragon in his home and live to tell of it."
The dragon turned his face down and another column of fire shot out from his mouth, scorching the ground a few scant metres from where the travellers stood. Laughing at their terrified reactions, the dragon pulled his face into the guardhouse and, within a few minutes, the wrought iron gate slowly slid open.
White was already taking a few tentative steps towards Dragonia when the guard stopped him with a warning. "Little ponies, you are the first visitors to Dragonia in a very long time. Tread carefully. Do nothing to upset my countrydragons, or you will be very sorry. Do not disrespect them, do not speak ill of the Dragon King, and – above all – do not make the mistake of offering bits or gemstones to anyone. Trust me on that."
The three travellers nodded solemnly, at which the dragon smiled. "Go forth, outsiders. May you return here satisfied."
With that, the dragon retreated into his guardhouse, and the three travellers marched passed the gate, White Noise leading.
***
The steep, winding path up to the elevated surface of Dragonia was long and winding. For much of their journey, the three travellers were hemmed in at both sides by oppressive grey cliff-faces, but in time they reached a point where the path became level with the northern cliff.
Taking a slight detour off the demarcated path, the travellers trotted across the surface of the northern summit to peer over its edge. The rocky, bumpy land of Dragonia stretched out before them.
"Hey! I think I see a green valley somewhere waaay over there!" Sky exclaimed.
"I can see a few more," White Noise replied, deadpan. "Some lakes and rivers, too – you know dragons need to drink, right?"
"Jokes, White." Sky rolled her eyes.
"I do not see any buildings," said Sibwashie. "Perhaps the stories about dragons only living in caves are true."
"Well it makes sense," White replied. "Imagine how many trees they must've had to cut down to make that guardhouse!"
"My father would call it uncivilised. He does not believe that anyone who lives in a cave can be anything but an animal."
White and Sibwashie stood and stared out at the land before them in silence. Sky flapped her wings and took off, signalling to the other two that she was going to have a quick look at the lay of the land and would be back shortly.
"Sometimes I wish I could do that," White Noise said, as Sky flew off into the distance. "I tried to levitate myself once, you know?"
Sibwashie nodded.
"Ten seconds and two feet off the ground later, I lost it. Fell on the ground and slept for the rest of the day; pretty irritating waking up on Monday morning and having to go to class again when you've only had half a weekend."
Sibwashie chuckled. "I always wondered why I had never seen a unicorn try that."
Sky soon returned, a faint smile on her face. "It feels great to really fly again! Travelling with a pair of landlubbers like you guys kinda cramps my style sometimes."
"And?" White enquired.
"Well, there are a whole lot of rocks and cliffs and stuff. I didn't see any dragons, but I saw a bunch of caves. In fact, there's one just a little further up along Skandar's Pass."
"Maybe that's where ‘Skandar’ lives."
"Only one way to find out! Race you guys up there!"
Before White or Sibwashie could protest, Sky shot up into the air like a bullet, leaving them to slowly amble back to the path.
***
"What took you so long?"
Sky sat in front of the yawning mouth of a cave, tail curled around her body and a bored expression on her face. White and Sibwashie had just rounded the corner of the path and were huffing and puffing from exertion, as the last quarter of the way had become quite steep.
White sighed at Sky, who smiled wryly.
"Is anydragon home?" he asked.
"I haven't checked yet," Sky replied, picking herself up. "Y'know, just in case it's a bad dragon who eats ponies. I was hoping he would be more eager to eat you guys than to eat me."
Sibwashie chuckled dryly, and White joined in with some more nervous laughter.
"I, uh, really doubt that ponies taste as good as gemstones," White said.
"They taste better!"
The travellers started as they heard a loud, rumbling voice from inside the cave. Sky's wings flicked out. Sibwashie lowered himself into a defensive position. White caught sight of a large rock and hid behind it.
"Nothing like fresh ponies for dinner! That marshmallowy taste is sooo good!"
White's legs quivered. Sibwashie's eyes narrowed. Sky soared into the air, arcing around to face the cave from a position where she figured she would be face-to-face with the dragon who was about to emerge.
A plume of dark black smoke billowed out of the mouth of the cave. It was soon followed by another, and then another. The air outside just outside the cave became thick and black, and the three travellers coughed and batted at it with their hooves, tearing up and blinking as it got into their eyes.
But then, as suddenly as it had appeared, the smoke was dissipated by a mighty gust of wind. The travellers' eyes were all closed, but they could hear a leathery beating of wings.
Sky was the first to open her eyes. She blinked a few times before realising what she was looking at. Her eyes shot wide open.
Standing in front of the cave, wings spread at her sides, was a rich purple and deep blue dragon. She was the size of five ponies and had a smile on her face. At first glance, Sky might have called it a wicked smile, but upon closer inspection, it seemed almost friendly.
An ear-bursting sound erupted from the dragon's mouth as she threw her head back and laughed.
"You should see the looks on your faces!" she boomed. "Such scaredy-ponies! Scared of being eaten by a dragon! Ha ha! How rich!"
White Noise emerged from behind his rock and promptly slumped onto the ground. He wasn't quite sure what he was supposed to think.
"Oh, queen of dragons, I beseech you; do tell us your intent
Is this really a joke, or are is relaxing us part of your hunting bent?" asked Sibwashie, his voice unwavering.
"Ooh! A striped pony who talks in song!" the dragon cried. "I really like those ones! They have a certain… exotic flavour."
The travellers stared at the dragon, their terrified expressions slowly giving way to bewilderment.
After a few moments of silence, the dragon sighed. "You guys are no fun. Obviously I don't want to eat you! I don't even like marshmallows!"
A great weight lifted off the shoulders of the two earthbound travellers, allowing them to raise themselves up and relax their tense muscles. Following her companions' example, Sky descended and tucked her wings at her side. All three travellers looked up at the dragon expectantly.
"Oh! How rude of me!" she exclaimed. "I never introduced myself!"
Instead of continuing, the dragon extended her leathery wings and shot up into the sky, doing a number of twists and somersaults in the air. Sky found herself surprised at how such a big creature could be so graceful in the air.
"My name," the dragon called out from a way above her visitors, "is Venkra: second daughter of Skandar the Great!"
Venkra tossed her head back and breathed a long, straight column of green flame into the sky directly above her, and then another two to her left and right.
"Welcome to my home, little ponies!"
***
The interior of Venkra's cave proved surprisingly homely, or at least more so than any of the travellers had expected a dragon's cave to be. Enormous Sheepersian rugs covered the cave's rock ground, and a series of evenly spaced lamps managed to light the cave up like a regular home. The thick legs of a coffee table and some sofas rose above the travellers' heads.
"You have a wonderful home, Ms Venkra," Sky complimented, thinking back to her mother's advice about the correlation between someone's conduct and the upkeep of their living space.
"Why thank you, little pony!" Venkra replied, quite delighted. "Some of my kind are content to pile their treasures into a cave and call it a day, but we're not all that unsophisticated. All of these delightful furnishings only cost me a few feet, anyhow."
Feet? White wondered, his ears perking up. That's an odd measurement to use for currency. Do dragons...?
White shuddered, shaking off the thought of dragons cutting of the feet of rabbits and monkeys to use as currency. He had heard that the superstitious llamas of the southern mountains of Andia weren't opposed to such practices, but decided not to make too many negative presumptions about dragons while travelling through their lands.
Sibwashie cleared his throat.
"I would like to ask a question I have been pondering, if I may be so bold?
Who is your father, this Skandar the Great? What stories of him are told?" he asked.
"Was, dear zebra," replied Vrenka, her voice faltering ever-so-slightly. "I'm afraid he passed away recently – snatched from the earth at a mere thirteen thousand years old!"
"I'm... sorry to hear that," Sky said, casting her eyes down at the rug.
"It's alright, dear one," Venkra replied, smiling gently at Sky. "Although it's only been about forty years... feels like just yesterday." A wistful look came over her features and she seemed to drift off for a moment. "You know, my father had a little pony friend..."
Hmm, interesting, thought Sibwashie. Dragon–pony relations in Dragonia. I should ask about that.
"Um, how old are you, Ms Venkra?" asked Sky, dragging Venkra away from her thoughts and speaking before Sibwashie could fully compose a rhyme.
Venkra raised an eyebrow. "They say you should never ask a lady her age. Of course, it's ponies who say that, and I've never understood why. I'm going to be exactly three hundred in a few months, Ms Wave, but I shan't ask you the same question."
"Wow..." Sky said. "I had a great, great granny who passed away at one-hundred-and-fifty, and we thought she was old! You must have seen so much in your life already!"
Venkra put a claw to her chin, amused. "I suppose you could say that. I have certainly 'seen a lot', but a lot of that lot has been terribly similar to the rest of that lot, to coin a phrase."
I don't think that's gonna catch on, thought White.
Venkra turned her head in White's direction. "What did you say your name was again, Mr Unicorn?"
"White Noise, ma'am," he answered.
"Your... what do you call it... uh, flank-picture-thing... what is it? I know your friend Sky's is a ribbon, and I've quite given up on interpreting those impressionist paintings on zebra flanks, but yours..."
"It's a speech bubble, ma'am," White responded.
Venkra stared blankly at him.
"Um, like in comic books?"
Venkra's facial expression remained unchanged.
White sighed inwardly. "It's a visual representation of speech – if you draw a pony on a piece of paper and then draw a bubble like this one with its tail leading from her mouth, it's accepted that the words in the bubble show what she is saying."
"Ah, so that's why you've been so quiet up until now!" Venkra exclaimed triumphantly. "Your 'speech bubble' is empty!"
Sky stifled a snicker.
"I've... never thought of it that way," White said, his face clouding over slightly. "But anyway: my cutie mark is a speech bubble because my special talent is communication – not communicating myself, but enabling others to communicate – communication magic, to be more precise."
Venkra nodded sagely. "Ah, so that explains your reasons for being in Dragonia. And here I thought this was a social visit! Oh well..."
"Well, um, yes," White replied. "We're here to do some research into dragonfire and how it's able to transport things between any two points in space instantaneously."
"Green dragonfire, you mean."
"I guess...? Is there another kind?"
Venkra hid her face in her claws. "I will take you to the University."
"Oh!" White asked excitedly. "You will? That's great! But I simply can't allow you to do something so kind without recompense! What's your fee?"
The room went silent. A horrified look came over Venkra's face and jets of fire streamed out of her nose. White could see her claws twitching as she forced them to stay at her sides.
"Ms Venkra, are you –?" White had to jump back as Venkra shoved her snout in his face a blew a breath of hot air over it.
"Never offer a dragon money, Mister Noise," she said coldly, narrowing her eyes at him. "Especially not me."
White jerked his head up and down in the fiercest nod he'd ever given.
Satisfied, Venkra straightened up and her face regained its usual friendly expression. Sky and Sibwashie gave White sympathetic looks, but decided not to press the issue.
"Now then," said Venkra. "I will take you to the University, and on the way, I will explain some important things about dragons to you. Pay attention."
Venkra's guests nodded firmly, and the four creatures left the cave.
***
Wind whipped around White Noise's ears as he clung onto Venkra's back, trying to keep himself from being sick. Just behind him, Sibwashie had his head turned up and was focusing very intently on a puffy white cloud just above them.
"Woo-hoo!" shouted Sky, who was corkscrewing in the air to their left. "Air is the only way to travel!"
"Haha, yes indeed, Ms Wave," agreed Venkra. "I still remember the day my wings began to grow with much fondness... the day they were finally big enough to fly with was even better."
"S-so," asked White, "what did you want to exp-plain about d-dragons, Ms Venkra?"
Venkra's eyes lit up and she twisted in the air, nearly expelling White's breakfast.
"Ah yes, dragons! We certainly are remarkable creatures, if I do say so myself. What many non-dragon folk don't realise is that we're actually a highly magical race, even though we don't have horns. But you see, the magic is in our fire. Apart from the run-of-the-mill orange stuff that we burn things with, we dragons have five types of magical fire: green flame, purple flame, pink flame, blue flame and black flame."
"What do the different types of flame do?" asked Sky, flying closer to Venkra's snout.
"The most common type is green flame, which is used for teleporting small objects between dragons. 'Most everydragon can make that stuff. Less common is purple flame, which works like unicorn telekinesis – I can't make it myself, but I've heard those that do need some really fine tongue control. Blowing still-less-common pink flame against a barrier creates a temporary portal through it. Blue flame can melt the very earth, and is used to carve out caves and mountain passes. Black flame... well, I'm not really up on what that does, but only one or two dragons have ever used it."
"That's really interesting," said White, forgetting his sickness for a moment. "I can't believe I never learnt this stuff in school. What types of fire can you make, Ms Venkra?"
"Only boring orange and common green, I'm afraid," Venkra sighed. "A little over half of all dragons can make two different types of magical flame, and most of our magic scholars boast at least three. I'm afraid I've never really had an aptitude for magic. Not like my father..."
Venkra was silent for a moment before continuing.
"Skandar's Pass isn't just called that because he was a great dragon. My father carved the pass you walked up with his own blue flame and in doing so created the first and only geographical link between Dragonia and the lands that surround it. He had a great vision of better integrating dragons with the outside world, but I'm afraid that most of that seems to have died along with him."
"I'm sad to hear that," White replied. "All is not lost, though. Dragonfire is the preferred internal communication method of Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, and I'm working to make it the preferred communication of Equestria, through Dragonfire Delivery – my independent mailing business."
Venkra smiled knowingly. "Ah, so you are here not only as a scholar, but also as a businesspony. The ancient secrets of dragonfire will no doubt be able to bolster your bank balance quite nicely."
A chill ran down White's spine, and he could feel a sudden tightening in the atmosphere. He glanced worriedly a Sky and Sibwashie, the latter of whom failed to return his glance, as he was still staring straight up.
"It – it's not like that at all, ma'am!" White protested, beginning to sweat. "Believe me when I say that I started my business out of a love for communication – a desire to bring Equestria – and even the world – closer together! My special talent is communication, not greed."
Venkra said nothing.
For a moment, White pondered mentioning how he was prepared to strike up a business deal with anydragon prepared to help him. He swiftly bit his tongue upon remembering Venkra's earlier outburst at his attempt to pay her for the trip.
White wisely said nothing, and the rest of the journey to the University was spent in relative silence.
***
Half an hour later, Venkra landed in front of a small, non-descript cave entrance somewhere around the middle of a large mountain. Sky alighted next to her, and her passengers tumbled thankfully to the ground. Sibwashie collapsed on the stone surface, rapturously pressing himself against the solid ground.
Shaking off his naseau, White glanced at the small cave entrance. "Who lives here?"
"No-one lives here," Venkra replied, chuckling. "Although, judging by the amount of time some of the scholars seem to spend holed up in their research chambers, they actually sort of do."
"Wait," White said incredulously, furrowing his brows. "So this is the university? I was expecting something... bigger."
"And flashier," added Sky.
Venkra tossed back her head and laughed heartily, her powerful voice in echoing in the wide-open spaces all around them. "I did suggest that they invest in some signs once, but that caused an argument about which script to use. You would think they'd just use dragonrunes, but apparently a number of world culture professors made a convincing case for zebrascript, of all things. Once that had nearly been agreed on, the decision shouted down by clamours for the Equestrian alphabet by the literature professor, followed by further arguments for everything from ancient ponyglyphics to antelopescratch. It got quite nasty, or so they told me."
"But how do they fit all of those arguing professors into such a tiny cave?" asked White Noise, who had been staring intently into the mouth of the cave in front of them.
"You don't think this is the only entrance do you? And you can't think that this cave is the entire university... can you?"
White stared blankly at her, blinking a few times.
"Uugh, do I have to teach you ponies everything?!" Venkra groaned, sliding her claws across her face. "The university has many entrances, all over this mountain, because it is this mountain. The intricate network of tunnels and caves that fill Mount Jilthor – that's the name of this mountain, by the way – and extend miles beneath it are a result of some of the most elaborate blue flame work ever done by dragonkind. Once we get inside, you'll see."
Not giving her companions time to ask how they were going to get inside the university, Venkra swiftly marched into the cave, signalling for them to follow her.
The cave was small enough for White's horn to light up its every nook and crevice. The walls were crude and featureless, and the ceiling was low enough that Venkra had to stoop a little. She wore a concentrated expression on her face and had shut her eyes.
"What no–"
White's question was cut off as the center of the floor suddenly flashed pink, turning slightly transparent. He heard a loud WHOOSH as the ground seemed to disappear from beneath his hooves.
There was a flailing of legs and two startled cries, followed by a loud THUD.
Groaning, White picked himself up off the hard stone floor. He gave Sibwashie a sidelong glance as they watched their two winged companions land gently next to them.
The cave they found themselves in was tinted a violent shade of pink by a great gust of fire shooting up to the ceiling – but only momentarily. Warm, flickering yellow light replaced the pink as the flame died away. A soft coughing was heard from the far corner.
Much to the annoyance of White and Sibwashie, a matted purple carpet began mere inches from the hard stone they had fallen on. This, coupled with the rows of wall-mounted lamps and occasional fern or painting, made the cave they had landed in feel more like an entrance hall than a cave. The young, tie-clad dragon who approached them reinforced this feeling further, to the point where White Noise could almost pretend he was back at Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns.
"Hey Jangro," greeted Venkra. "I've brought some pony travellers to the see the guys in Communication."
"Ah, that you have," croak Jangro, leaning down to glance curiously at the three travellers. "And for what purpose?"
Venkra grinned and nudged White forward with a scaly elbow. "I think Mr White Noise here and explain that better than I."
"Umm, yes," White said, glancing up into the judging eyes of the dragon Jangro, desperately trying to maintain eye-contact. "Well, um, I myself am a student of Communications Magic. Although technically I'm not a student anymore, because I already graduated... from Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. Although I guess one is always a student in some way; there's always more to learn, more to discover..."
Jangro cleared his throat loudly. A tiny pink flame flickered on the end of one of his nostrils.
"Right, yes, the point," White continued, straightening up. "Dragons know a lot about communication magic. Green flame is the most advanced form of we ponies have yet discovered. I've been using it as the basis for a delivery business in Equestria, but I don't actually understand how it works, or why it works. They could never teach me that at school, because they didn't know either. I want to learn. Communication magic is my special talent, and my entire livelihood comes from using a form of it I don't understand. As a learned dragon, I'm sure you can understand that frustration."
Having finished his speech, White breathed deeply before looking up at Jangro's large dragon eyes, waiting for a response.
"I was going to say 'no'," replied Jangro, after a time of silent contemplation. "When you mentioned the word 'business', I was very tempted to deny you any audience with the University's scholars. We cannot support greed as a motive for the seeking of knowledge. However..."
Everyone in the room held their breaths as Jangro paused.
"...I do not think that anything you have said is indicative of greed. A greedy pony would be content to make money off something he can use but does not understand. A greedy pony would not, I don't think, come all this way in the name of discovering something that would not service their greed. You have nothing material to gain by understanding green flame, so I will grant you an audience with our foremost Communications Magic scholars."
The room breathed a collective sigh of relief, and an enormous grin spread across White's face. That was easier than I expected, he thought.
"Now, they're very busy at the moment, but they should be ready to speak with you just as soon as they finish their current project."
"When would that be?" asked White. "I'm perfectly happy to wait a while."
"Oh! You're in luck!" Jangro smiled. "They're in the final stages of the project and will be done in a mere seventy years!"
The three travellers' jaws all dropped in unison.
Jangro and Venkra both stared down at the travellers, the quizzical expressions on their faces very slowly turning into looks of realisation.
“That’s a really long time,” said Sky.
“Relatively speaking, of course,” White added quickly. “I’m aware that dragons have a somewhat... more drawn-out lifespan than ponies do, and I respect that, but...”
“...But by the time they finish up, you’ll all be very old ponies,” Venkra finished.
“Precisely. Isn’t there... another way?”
Jangro put a claw to his chin, scratching it thoughtfully for a few moments before turning to Venkra and giving her a knowing glance.
Venkra gasped. “You don’t mean –”
“I do,” said Jangro gravely. “Ponies, there is one other way to find the knowledge you seek and to do it in a more appropriate timeframe.”
“Yes?” White asked, his eyes lighting up with the hope that his entire trip hadn’t been a complete waste of time.
“You must meet with the Dragon King,” said Venkra, her expression turning very serious. “He can tell you everything you need to know about green flame.”
“But be warned,” Jangro continued, “for not everyone is worthy of an audience with our great ruler. You will be judged, and if you are found wanting...”
“...you will be banished from Dragonia forever,” finished Venkra.
Sky leaned over to whisper something White. “No pressure...”
***
Time passed in silence as the five creatures looked around the cave and at each other, all waiting for a decision.
White Noise had a decision to make. Would he give up on getting assistance in his magic research from the dragons after travelling all the way to their country for it, or would he seek an audience with the Dragon King and risk said king's wrath in the process?
The biggest problem was that he wasn't only gambling with his own health and safety. He had the welfare of Sky and Sibwashie to think of as well. They had travelled all this way with him, and he knew that he probably would not have made it to Dragonia this quickly or in this good a shape without their aid. Of course, they would both receive payment for their services after the journey was over, and so what did it matter to them if he didn't accomplish his goals?
White glanced at his friends with an uncertain expression on his face. They beckoned him over, and the three formed a tight huddle.
"This 'Dragon King' stuff sounds dangerous," said White. "If you don't want to go through with it, we can turn back now and go home. I'll still pay you what we agreed on before we left Fillydelphia."
Their momentary silence told White that his offer was tempting.
"No," Sibwashie replied decisively. "We came to Dragonia so that you could learn more about communication magic. I remember the story you told me about Princess Celestia's speech. This is important to you, White Noise."
"Sibwashie's right," Sky added. "It's not about the money. It's about dreams! Friends don't let friends give up on their dreams, White! We can't just give up and go home empty-hoofed."
"We are as invested in you achieving your goals as your are, because we want you to be happy and satisfied," Sibwashie continued. "Remember also that you may not ever have an opportunity like this again."
That's true, White thought. I can turn around now and go back home and just let everything go back to the way things were. Dragonfire Delivery may even do well for a while – at least until somepony else does what I couldn't do and actually completes this research.
A shiver ran down his spine as White thought about his finances for the first time in days. This expedition of his had been conducted on company money, and despite every cost-cutting measure he'd taken, the transportation and lodging fees added up. He owed Dragonfire Delivery results.
White's mind was made up. "We'll take our chances with the Dragon King. Thanks, guys..." he said, feeling a bit of moisture in his eyes.
The huddle lasted a few seconds longer, and then broke.
"What have you decided?" asked Jangro, lifting an expectant eyebrow.
White took a deep breath and looked back at the smiling faces of his friends for support before saying, "We would like to seek an audience with the Dragon King, if that is the only way to complete our quest."
Jangro and Venkra gave each other a look, and the latter shrugged.
"Fine with me. I'll even give you ponies a lift to the palace."
|
Ezn
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997
| 12 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-03-14T04:16:22+00:00
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2013-01-13T04:37:42+00:00
| 2,247 |
Chapter Twelve
The trip to the palace of the Dragon King – a series of caves dug into Mount Olym – was a short one, as it was fairly close to the university's mountain. The three travellers had barely said their parting words of thanks to Jangro when they alighted on a jutting peak in front of their destination.
The mountain's black, jagged peaks gave it a menacing appearance. Taking a step back from the gaping, blacker-still mouth of the entrance cave, Sky half-expected to be startled into the air by a sudden thundercrack.
"Don't ask about signs," said Venkra. "His Highness feels that the unique look of this mountain is indication enough."
White cleared his throat nervously. "So... do we just go in?"
"Pretty much," replied Venkra, waving a claw dismissively. "Don't worry, I can accompany you for at least part of the way."
"We would be very grateful if you would take us as far as you want to go
If we are to succeed, there may be some things we need to know."
"I'll tell you all about the king's hobbies and favourite colour, don't you worry!"
The conversation lulled. After a series of nervous gulps, the four visitors slowly walked into the cave's dark depths, one step at a time. Once the darkness had fully consumed the end of Sibwashie's short tail, White's horn sparked and lit up.
"It gets lighter later on," Venkra advised. "It's just that dark entrance ways are sooo in right now, and his Highness highly values his ability to relate to his subjects."
***
After a few twists and turns, the visitors came to passage where the cave did indeed get lighter. Crude, wooden torches lined the walls, showing that the passageway they were in had grown much narrower since its gaping entrance.
"It's not too much further now," said Venkra. "This castle does take up most of the mountain's interior, but if memory serves, the king's throne room is fairly close to the entrance."
"It looks like the tunnel widens just after this next bend!" said Sky, who had flown slightly ahead of the rest of the party. "It gets brighter too, I think..."
The rest of the party soon rounded the bend and came into view of a place where the tunnel widened into an enormous, bright cavern. The many torches scattered around the walls and ceiling of the cave shed a light that glistened and glinted off the cavern's contents: towering piles of gold, silver and gemstones.
Sky, White and Sibwashie stared out at the treasure with their jaws hanging open, while Venkra, being uncharacteristically quiet, stared at the floor.
"Let's keep going," she said, her voice sounding strained. "There's another tunnel just up ahead."
White ignored her. "So I guess this is the treasury. It's very impressive, but I do wonder why the Dragon King would put it in the middle of the entrance hall. It doesn't seem... prudent."
"Our wise leader has his reasons," Venkra replied curtly, shuffling towards a large wooden door set into the far side of the cave, her eyes firmly aimed at the floor.
White gave his companions a quizzical glance, as if to ask "what's up with her?" Upon eliciting only shrugs and looks of bewilderment, he turned his attention back to Venkra and cantered a short way to catch up with her.
His curiosity got the better of him. "Why is it that –"
"Because, okay!" Venkra snapped, the heightened volume of her voice echoing off the cavern's walls. "It's just how dragons are!"
At that moment, as if triggered by Venkra's sudden outburst, a golden crown – fitted for an equine head – came loose from its precarious position on one of the towering treasure piles and sailed down towards the cavern floor.
BONK!
"Ow!"
By some stroke of misfortune, the crown's path to the ground was blocked by Venkra's scaly head, which it bounced off before landing on the ground in front of her. For a tense moment, everything was still and silent. Venkra stopped in her tracks and stared down at the crown. A shiver went down Sky's spine.
Then, quite unceremoniously, Venkra bent down and scooped the crown up with her right set of claws. She examined it further before straightening up and marching to the treasure pile to her left, presumably to put it back where it belonged.
A small, wicked smile crept across Venkra's lips. Her knees bent. Her wings flared. She jumped...
"GERONIMO!"
...and landed right in the middle of a pile of golden coins, cackling with glee.
"MINE!" she shouted, getting a crazed look in her eyes.
Venkra's companions looked on with concern as she tried to splash and dive in the pile of treasure as if it was a very expensive swimming pool. They offered each other incredulous glances, but said nothing.
"Hee hee!" cackled Venkra. "Treasure! Treasure! Riches! Gold! So shiny! What a sight to behold!"
Sibwashie raised an eyebrow.
Becoming still more concerned, White started to take a step forward before stopping with his forehoof dangling over the ground, which had begun to shake.
WEE-YOOO! WEE-YOO! WEE-YOOOOO!
An ear-splitting alarm blasted through the room, seeming to come from all sides at once. White, Sky and Sibwashie all clutched their ears with their forehooves, but Venkra remained unmoving. If she could hear the alarms, they did not bother her.
CRRRACK.
A slow, sickening snapping sounded through the room as a portion of the rocky floor near the entrance cracked open. The hole widened and widened, revealing a boundless, dark chasm beneath it.
"What's that about?" asked White, getting no response.
Then the wind started.
"Do you feel a that?" asked White. "The, uh, slight breeze. I didn't know caves had breezes."
"They don't," hissed Sibwashie. "Look at the hole."
White glanced casually at the hole. Then he did a double-take and examined it more seriously. Small rocks and glinting bits of treasure were slowly moving towards the hole, as if they were being sucked in.
"It's sucking everything in!" exclaimed Sky. "And look – the sucking is getting faster!"
What had been a slow trickle of the smaller, lighter coins and gems had become a wave of treasure, zooming into the hole from all sides – including the side that the travellers were facing away from.
A fast-moving stream of gold crashed towards the group. Sky took to the air and Sibwashie was alert enough to leap a few feet and avoid being knocked off his hooves. White just stood there.
"Waaaaa!" he shouted, as the current knocked him off his hooves.
"White!" cried Sky and Sibwashie in unison.
"Help!"
Sibwashie looked to Sky and then to White before turning around and galloping for the exit, jumping over the treasure as he went.
Sky swooped over to White, scooping him out of the current with all four of her hooves. She huffed and puffed as she slowly lifted him.
White's horn lit up. He still remembered how he'd tried to lift himself with his telekinesis at a young age. Not wanting to pass out this time, he cast the same spell, but gave it only a third of the power.
It was enough. Sky smiled and flapped her wings, moving swiftly to the edge of the cave with the reduced weight of her burden.
She and White tumbled to the ground next to Sibwashie, who was standing just beyond the opened wooden door, just out of the wind's range.
"Th-thanks..." said White, shakily getting to his hooves. "B-but what about Venkra?"
The three glanced back at their greed-crazed friend. She was still quite oblivious to both the obnoxious alarm that was still blaring and the powerful wind that was slowly sucking her towards the hole in the floor. Sky could hardly bare to watch as she ran coins through her claws and laughed and muttered to herself.
Thanfully, Venkra was moving away from the center of the sinkhole and seemed more than strong enough to escape the current, at least for the time being.
Closing her eyes and taking a deep breath, Sky made a decision.
"I'm going in," she said.
"You'll be sucked up!" White cried.
"Somepony has to try to save Venkra," Sky replied. "We can't just leave her there."
White conceded to this, and Sibwashie nodded solemly.
"How are you going to do it?" asked Sibwashie. "I mean no insult, but you're not strong enough to carry such a heavy dragon."
"Well she has wings, doesn't she?" replied Sky. "I just need to snap her out of whatever weird trance she's in, and then she'll be good to fly herself out. White: you know dragons. What's up with her?"
White swung a forehoof back and forth, avoiding eye-contact with Sky. "For all I know about dragons, I really don't know all that much. I have no idea why she's acting like this, but..."
White paused as he cast his mind back to something that both Venkra and the border guard had said to him.
Sibwashie, who had been silently thinking about the same thing, beat him to the punch. "Perhaps this is why dragons are so strongly opposed to being paid or receiving any kind of currency. Perhaps the sight of it drives them mad with greed."
"That's..." White began. "It seems likely, but I pay my dragons in bits, and I've never had them go crazy."
"You must not pay them enough."
Sky nervously glanced back into the treasury while her companions continued to discuss dragon psychology. Venkra's smiling face had edged just a little closer the hole. The wind was gaining force, and she was losing ground.
"Solutions, guys!" Sky snapped. "I need to know how to snap her out of it!"
"White's thought-transferral powers might prove useful," said Sibwashie calmly.
"WHAT?!" White spat, his eyes bugging out. "I – Those – But –"
Sensing an incoming moral crisis that none of them had time for, Sky swooshed over to White and grabbed him by the shoulders, giving him a rough shake.
"White!" she said. "If there are any good applications of that kind of magic, then this is one of them. Without your intervention – the special magic only you can do – Venkra will die!"
White stared into Sky's hard gaze, his eyes trembling a bit. Sighing deeply, he nodded.
"Good," said Sky, her expression softening. "Now hop on my back and fire up that telekinesis! ...Unless you'll need to conserve magic to..."
"No," White replied. "I always have enough magic when my friends are in danger."
And indeed, White's horn glowed brighter and brighter as he and Sky flew towards Venkra. Once they were hovering just above her, Sky nodded to White and shucked him off.
White's descent was slowed by his telekinesis, but he still had a bumpy, stumbling landing on Venkra's back. He wrapped his forehooves around her neck, holding on for dear life as he prepared to cast his newest spell.
I can do this, he told himself. Relax, White. It's just like any other spell... just like any... other... spell.
A spark of cyan magic jumped off White's horn. Except it's evil. Magic like this was never meant to be used by mere mortals.
White shook his fiercely. No. I have this spell, so I can use it ethically. All I'm going to do is transfer a few thoughts from one brain to another. I do that all the time – it's what communication's about! And there's nothing wrong with communication!
A second spark of magic left White's horn, followed soon afterwards by a fourth and a fifth. His horn glowed, and finally he closed his eyes, focusing his mind on the thoughts around him. They soon came into view.
Venkra needs to snap out of it and forget about the treasure, or she's going to die! That's okay, right, White?
White smiled. Yeah, but maybe you should leave off the last bit, he thought, quickly firing it off to Sky.
Okey-dokey (this is weird)!
Venkra needs to snap out of it and forget about the treasure, or she's going to die!
Taking a deep breath, White snatched the thought from Sky's mind concentrated on redirecting it. Then he stopped. Where Venkra's mind should have been, he found nothing. He could sense Sky's mind and was even getting a faint reading from Sibwashie's, but, try as he might, Venkra's remained elusive.
White concentrated harder. This doesn't make sense, he thought. Her mind's just... missing.
His eyes shot open, and he turned them up to Sky. "Apparently it doesn't work on dragons!" Somewhere in the back of his mind, this relieved him.
"Treasure! Treasure! Riches! Gold! So shiny! What a sight to behold!" Venkra chanted, not even noticing White or Sky.
Panicked seconds passed as White and Sky stared at each other in terror, both desperately waiting for the other to come up with a solution. When no solution came, Sky shrugged and swooped down towards White.
She grabbed him. His horn lit up. Magic spread over him. She started to rise. His forelegs released Venkra's neck. The magic flickered almost imperceptibly.
"Woah!" White cried.
Sky's eyes narrowed as she gripped him with all four hooves. He felt heavier than he had before.
White's hindlegs left Venkra's back. His magic flickered. His horn spluttered.
The light dimmed.
"Oof," Sky groaned. She dipped lower and lower.
"My magic!" White cried, pulling his hooves up to his body. "It's... I can't –"
Sky lost her grip, and he slipped.
"Help!"
"White!" Sky shouted.
A sudden surge of adrenaline shocked her system and she dove down towards the swirling golden whirlpool.
White reached out a forehoof.
The treasure clattered and clanged as Sky touched down on it, slipping immediately.
"Aah!"
She caught herself with her wings. Bad idea! she thought.
A few metres away, White noticed a golden chain lying next to him. Thinking quickly, he grabbed it between his teeth and rolled his head around, trying to swing it to Sky.
White scowled as the other end of the chain landed not half a metre in front of him. Fortunately, Sky soon swooped in and grabbed the chain in her own jaw.
Unfortunately, the current proved stronger than her. She beat her wings furiously, but still edged closer to the hole.
White cast her a forlorn look. If I get too close, I'll have to let go, he thought, for Sky.
Sky looked behind her to see that Venkra was moving towards the hole as well, but not at a very high speed. She wasn't putting up any resistance, as her attention was fully focused on the large diamond clasped between her claws.
Her eyes flashing with inspiration, Sky lowered herself to Venkra's left forearm and quickly fastened her end of the golden chain to it. Then, without thinking too hard about what she was doing, she snatched the diamond from Venkra's claws and heaved it as close to the edge of the cave as her forehooves could manage.
It worked. Venkra roared and lunged in the direction of the diamond, bringing White out of immediate danger.
"Woo-hoo!" he shouted. "That was a great idea, Sky! You really –"
"AAAAH!"
"Sky!"
In Venkra's mad scramble for the diamond, her tail had hit Sky right in the gut, winding her and knocking her into the whirling treasure. White looked on despondently as she edged closer and closer to the hole at the other end of the cave.
There was only one thing he could do to save her, and it was a long shot. "Venkra!" he yelled. "If any part of you is still there, do something! Sky is going to fall in!"
For a tense moment, nothing changed. Then, without saying anything, Venkra rose up on her great wings and pulled White up onto her back with a swift tug of the chain tied to her left foreleg. Her expression was hardened, but cracked slightly as she cast her eyes down to the diamond she had abandoned, and then hardened once more as her head jerked back up.
Sweat poured down her forehead, and White could hear her groaning as she threw the chain to Sky.
Sky caught it. She was tired and winded, but not unconscious, and quickly used her mouth and hooves to fasten the chain around her midsection, tugging it when she finished.
This seemed to calm Venkra. The groaning subsided as she pulled Sky away from the windy hole and towards the cave's exit.
Sibwashie sighed in relief as his three companions tumbled through the door, and was quick to slam it shut after them.
The chain's far end had come loose from Venkra's forearm as they'd flown through the door. Sky lay panting on the ground, clutching it to her body.
Venkra looked at the chain for a moment, her eyes cold and wet. "Keep it," she said, without understanding why.
Sky was too exhausted to be puzzled by anything just then, so she lifted her head to smile weakly at Venkra instead.
***
The three lay sprawled on the floor of the lamp-lit corridor, catching their breath. Sibwashie sat in front of them, patiently waiting for one to speak. Venkra was looking at the ground quite intently, and Sky was inhaling and exhaling heavily. White, on the other hoof, looked like he was on the verge of saying something.
"What the hay was that about?!" he demanded, quickly forgetting his resolution to always be polite to all dragons. "You almost got us killed!"
Venkra breathed in and out deeply a few times, but said nothing. She avoided eye contact with White, but Sky caught a glimpse of her sorrowful expression and motioned for White to leave her alone.
Once they had all caught their breath, Venkra slowly stood up and started walking along the corridor. A slight motion in one of her right claws was the only indication she gave the others to follow her.
White's brain was abuzz with curiosity. What brought out that greed? he wondered. More importantly, what brought Venkra back out of it?
The trek through the twisting stone corridors was long, and the talkative Venkra eventually grew weary of passing it in silence. With a heavy sigh, she opted to satisfy White's curiosity at last.
"Dragons are greedy," she said. "Really, really greedy."
Pausing to listen to White's hoofsteps speed up slightly as he trotted closer, Venkra smiled and gathered her thoughts.
"Like, if ponies are all about love and friendship, then dragons are all about greed. It's our central instinct. The desire to own more pretty and valuable things is the desire to be a better dragon, and that is our great curse and our heaviest burden."
At this point, Sibwashie and Sky also sped up slightly to listen more closely to what Venkra was saying.
"What you saw back there is the reason I was so emphatic about you not giving dragons any form of payment," she continued. "The accumulation of wealth is a slippery slope – once you have some, you want more, and the more you have, the more you want more. Wealth drives us crazy, but it also helps us grow – and I mean physically grow, like, get bigger."
"Wow," said White. "That's... uh... so that's what you meant about your furniture only costing a few feet!"
"Yep." Venkra chuckled. "I had to spend some treasure on making that cave look nice, and then I had to get some help moving it all in, because I'd shrunk during the transaction. It's a strange feeling, shrinking."
White nodded, the dots beginning to connect in his head. "So... the amount of treasure you own determines how physically large you are?"
"Well, yeah, sorta," Venkra replied, waving an arm dismissively. "Of course, 'treasure' isn't as good a term as 'stuff', but generally gold and gems cause more growth than other possessions. It's not an exact science."
A strange thought suddenly entered Sky's head. "Venkra... why didn't all that treasure you were swimming in make you grow any bigger?"
"I didn't own it," Venkra replied bluntly. "That didn't stop it from driving me crazy, though."
"What was that, um, like?" asked White, his curiosity getting the better of his tact. "Being crazy with greed, I mean."
"...It was like having your priorities really, really messed up," said Venkra. "The entire time, I was vaguely aware of the alarm, of that windy hole-thing and of you and Sky flapping and flitting about around me, but the only thing in the world that seemed to matter was the beautiful, shiny, glistening mountain of gold and silver and jewels and – uugh!"
Venkra groaned in pain and clutched her face with both of her clawed hands, standing still and breathing shallowly for a few moments before recovering.
"Are you okay?" asked Sky.
"For now," Venkra said, straightening up, "but White here almost made me have a relapse!"
White grinned sheepishly at the disapproving glares of his friends.
"Further talk of this dragon weakness strikes me as unwise
Let us cease this, and not burden our guide with further 'why's," Sibwashie concluded sagely.
The dragon and her three companions trudged further and further along the winding passageway, coming closer to the Dragon King's throne with every step.
***
"We're here," said Venkra at last.
She needn't have said anything, for where they were was quite evident to the rest of the group. The narrow tunnel had widened considerably and was completely filled a few metres ahead by the largest set of doors they had ever seen. On either side of these doors stood two guards, who – at around twice the size of Venkra – were easily the biggest dragons they'd ever seen.
The two guards both had blood-red scales, and wore shiny steel helmets as their only armour. They held spears the height of Manehattan apartment buildings at their sides and didn't so much as flinch as the four visitor came into sight.
"Now let me do the talking," Venkra continued.
Her three companions nodded in unison. They were far too busy taking in the scale of everything around them to think about talking to the guards.
Venkra motioned for them to linger behind as she stepped up to the front of the door.
WHOOSH! The guards crossed their spears as soon as Venkra got within spitting distance of the great doors.
"Halt," they boomed.
"Hello, sirs," Venkra replied, shrinking down a bit.
White smiled a little, thinking about how small Venkra seemed just then.
"Greetings," the guards said, pausing for a moment with a far-off look in their eyes, "Venkra, second daughter of Skandar the Great. Please state your business."
"I've brought some travellers from Equestria to see his royal Highness, sirs." Venkra pointed a claw back at her companions, eliciting a timid hoof-wave from Sky. "They wish to confer with our king on matters of communication magic, and have assured me that –"
One of the guards cleared his throat loudly. "We know of your conduct in the Royal Treasury, Ms Venkra."
For a moment, Venkra froze. A horrible sense of dread washed over her and travelled on to White, Sky and Sibwashie. The guards had harsh looks in their eyes and frowns on their snouts.
Don't let them say no... White mentally pleaded, feeling himself start to sweat. Not after all of this...
It was only a few seconds later that the second guard spoke, but it may as well have been a few years.
"Ms Venkra, we and his Highness are sorely disappointed at your lack of self-control," he said gravely. "As a dragon, you should know better. We recommend you seek counselling."
Venkra nodded meekly.
The first guard's frown softened. "However... you did come out of it, and neither you nor your companions stole anything from the treasury. Additionally, your companions displayed great courage and empathy in coming to your rescue."
White's ears perked up and the hairs of his coat stood on edge. And...? he mentally begged.
The second guard blinked a few times before saying, "His Highness will see you. All of you."
"And he will answer whatever questions you have about magic of any kind," added the first guard.
In less formal and solemn surroundings, White might have jumped for joy and danced around, whooping and hollering, but in this case he decided to merely canter up to the guards and thank them as politely as possible.
With another WHOOSH of air, the two spears flew away from each other and uncovered the door, which soon began to creak open.
"It's..." White began.
"...so..." Sky continued.
"...bright..." Venkra finished, shielding her eyes with a foreleg.
The throneroom beyond the door was piled gold and gems, enough to cover every rocky surface that gravity would allow it to. Golden chandeliers hung from the ceiling, on which was painted a beautiful scene with hundreds of multicoloured dragons.
But nopony – or dragon – was looking at any of that once the doors opened fully. In the center of the room, hovering just above the top of the highest mountain of gold, was the wrinkled, crimson head of a dragon with wizen green eyes. His head alone was easily the size of Venkra's entire body, and the rest of him disappeared from sight in the depths of the cave. Upon his head was a golden crown, inlaid with more jewels than anypony present could count.
"Well met, outsiders," boomed the deep, old voice of the Dragon King. "Please, introduce thyselves!"
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Ezn
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997
| 13 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-03-15T18:43:23+00:00
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2013-01-13T04:49:41+00:00
| 4,453 |
Chapter Thirteen
As soon as the King's visitors entered his throneroom, the enormous double doors behind them clanged shut. White winced at this as he stepped forward to introduce himself.
He bowed briefly, and then began, "Greetings, your Majesty! My name is White Noise, and I come to you as a humble seeker of knowledge. I am a magic scholar, specialising in communication magic, and I have been told that your Highness's great wisdom is the best possible source for the information I seek."
Sky and Sibwashie stepped forward as White finished speaking, taking his silence as a cue to bow themselves.
"These are my friends and travelling companions," White continued, motioning towards the bowing equines to his left and right. "They do not share my interest in magic, but I would not have made it here without them."
The King nodded slightly, and turned his eyes to Sky.
"My name is Sky Wave, your Highness," she said. "Being in your Highness's court and seeing your Highness face-to-face is an honour and a privilege that I never dreamed I'd have."
Again, the King nodded, before turning to Sibwashie.
"I bring warm greetings from the people of your Highness’s neighbours on a Zebrican plain
We have great respect for the dragons, and I am humbled to be allowed in their domain," greeted Sibwashie, glancing deferringly back at Venkra.
Venkra smiled warmly at the King. "Hey Uncle Kasdar. How's it going?"
White stopped himself just short of gasping in horror.
"I am very well. Thank you, Ms Venkra."
White nearly fainted. Dragons have very strange protocol, he thought.
The Dragon King lifted an enormous clawed hand – large enough to grab and squash a pony, Sky nervously considered – to signal that he was about to announce something of importance. A loud rumbling from his throat filled the room as he prepared to speak.
“Friends,” he began, “and I do call you friends for what you have done and what you shall do for my kingdom, it is good to meet you in person at last – at last, for I feel that you have longed for this meeting for many weeks now.”
White Noise’s thoughts honed in on a single word. “Friends”? Really? Why? This is incredible! If the King is calling us his friends, he’ll tell me about dragonfire for sure! Stay cool, White, stay polite!
“It is an honour to be in your court today, your Highness,” replied White, bowing so low that that ground muffled his words. “It is also perhaps too great an honour for your Highness to call us friends.”
Sibwashie nodded slightly and lowered his own bowing almost to White’s level.
"Pray tell us, oh King of dragons, what we have done to earn such praise
We would not want to wonder what we have done right till the end of days."
The Dragon King’s snout twitched into a faint smile, and small chuckle boomed from the corner of his mouth. He turned his great eyes to Sky, who shrank back slightly.
"As the king of the dragons, I am intimately concerned with their welfare,” he said, “and not just the welfare of all dragons as general measure, but the health and happiness of every one of my subjects – indeed, every member of my species! This is why I am the king of the dragons and not the king of Dragonia – I would not worry for the sake of rocks!"
The King blinked and swiftly raised his head up on his tree trunk of neck, nearly smashing his skull into the cave’s ceiling.
"Ms Wave," he proclaimed, his voice growing louder in volume and more solemn in tone. "thou hast forged a strong bond with our subject Venkra, daughter of Skandar in the treasury cave this day! By the power of your friendship, nevermore shall she succumb to the scaly temptations!"
Sky raised a forehoof in front of her mouth in shock. Venkra too was surprised, but only for a moment, as her surprised features soon relaxed into a knowing expression.
"Yes, my child," the Dragon King continued softly, lowering his head to peer down at Venkra as he noticed her face. "This little pony is the first non-dragon you have given some object of value to, out of concern for her and not for you. She is your gafcomp, and her existence shall be a ward to your greed."
Sky’s look of shock slowly turned into a look of shocked puzzlement, and then a look of pure puzzlement.
"Gafcomp?" she asked. "What’s a gafcomp? ...Your Highness?"
The Dragon King smirked. "It has been a long time since I last needed to tell anydragon – or anypony – the Legend of the First Dragon."
Taking a deep, slow breath, the King filled his lungs with air before carefully expelling it in a column of black flame. The column fed into a growing sphere in of black flame, suspended in the air above the visitors’ heads. Once all of the flame had been absorbed by the sphere, it started to change colour.
So that’s what black dragonfire does, thought White. Incredible.
Blurry blobs of different hues formed on the surface of the sphere, slowly becoming clearer and revealing themselves to be pictures. The pictures moved, and with the Dragon King’s booming narration, they told a story.
«-oOo-»
In eons past, when the world was young and those who would become its dominant creatures were only just beginning to think and to reason, there was much needless fighting. In those days, dragons, griffons and all types of equines shared a single island in the middle of an endless ocean, and each faction vied for dominance.
During the first decades, the factions were caught in frustrating stalemate. The griffons had their sharp and dexterous talons, the dragons had their magical fire-breath, and the ponies, zebras and others had great numbers and devilish cunning. Each group would attack another group, and losses would be thankfully light on all sides, but nothing would be accomplished. This was not to last.
When the dragons' caves became too small to sustain them, they dug and blasted away huge swaths of rock, going deeper and deeper underground in search of more space. What they didn't expect to find along with their new space was gemstones.
These stones were dismissed as pretty trinkets at first, after the brief consideration of using them as distractions in battle against the other factions. Having nowhere else to go, they were piled into one of the then–Dragon King's extra rooms.
In those times, a full-grown dragon was the height of two ponies standing on their hindlegs. When the Dragon King shot up in size to the point where he was unable to leave his chambers, his subjects were greatly shocked. The greatest doctors and magicians under the King's rule tried everything they could think of to shrink him down again, but he kept growing, up to the point where his great size stopped others from entering his chamber.
The doctors were relieved when he stopped growing at this point, but still found no way to cure him. Weeks and months passed, and the equines and griffons must have wondered at the sudden reclusiveness of their common adversary.
Eventually, the doctors and magicians gave up and stopped visiting the King. They made his firstborn son the new king and encouraged everydragon to forget about the old one.
Some months later, the ex–Dragon King arrived unannounced to a great banquet held in honour of the square metre of land that had been annexed from griffon territory that day. He was back to his normal size and looked healthy and well-fed.
At that feast, dragons ate gemstones for the first time and learnt of the effect that owning them had on growth. The dragons clamoured for the old King to be reinstated, but he declined, patting his son on the back and saying how much he looked forward to his retirement.
It was only after he died that his son put what dragonkind had learnt that day to use.
«-oOo-»
The pictures faded out, and the ball of flame turned black once more.
"Now I remember what black flame does!" Venkra cheerfully whispered. "It's too bad barely any dragons can use it – it would make plays so much easier!"
The Dragon King took a moment to breath in and out as his visitors politely waited. He then took a final deep breath in and expelled it in another column of black flame, which collided with the sphere and brought it back to life in a flicker of colours.
"Now, where was I?" pondered the Dragon King. "Ah, yes: putting knowledge to use."
«-oOo-»
A few weeks after his father's funeral, the Dragon King instituted a ban on the consumption of precious stones, while at the same time starting an initiative to find more. His subjects did not understand why these measures had been taken, but any who doubted the King's wisdom were soon reminded of the thirty square metres of land that had been won from the other factions during his short reign.
The miners worked diligently, and many gems were unearthed. These gems, along with the stockpiles that had already been collected, were distributed equally among the population, together with strongly worded instructions not to eat them under any circumstances. The dragons were bewildered, but grateful.
When they started to grow, they understood the King's plan, and whoops of elation echoed through the winding corridors of their cavernous home.
After some months of complete silence from the dragons, the equines had seen their chance and planned a raid on their caves. Great was their surprise when hoards of massive dragons – easily the size of six ponies each – burst out of cave exits that were too narrow to accommodate them.
What fighting there was was mercifully short. Those few equines who were too brave or too foolish to surrender immediately were crushed, and the rest quickly gave up and joined the dragons to successfully conquer the griffons, which they all had very mixed feelings about.
Flags bearing an image of a large, blood-red dragon were hung all over the island, and the Dragon King flew up to its highest peak to survey his domain. The leaders of the other factions had surrendered to him, and he wore their tiny crowns as rings on his claws. As he stood on the mountain peak, breathing in the fresh, cold air that was now his, every griffon, pony, donkey, mule and zebra on the island were being shackled and herded into their new lives as slaves.
«-oOo-»
The colours faded from the globe once more, and the Dragon King's guests looked up at him expectantly. If that is the end of his story, then it's the most upsetting story I have ever heard, thought Sibwashie. Although I can see why it might appeal to dragons – the more barbaric and power-hungry among them, at least.
"Fear not, my friends," assured the Dragon King. "This story is conventionally told in three parts – one every fifty years, when dealing with dragons. Bear in mind, also, that this is the summarised version."
The King blew another gust of black flame into the sphere, lighting it up for the final part of his tale.
«-oOo-»
It's all mine! thought the King. Everything as far as the eye can see... is all mine!
After he had stood on the summit for quite some time, the King finally flapped his wings and flew back down to the cave system where he knew his subjects would already be putting their prisoners to work in the mines. He was so busy thinking about how he would expand the dragons' gemstone-mining effort that he didn't notice the odd quiet that had fallen over the cave and was not disturbed by his status as the only dragon who wandered the rocky halls.
The King soon reached the mines, and was shocked by what he saw there. One of his subjects, a very loyal and hard-working dragon named Lyschek, was curled up in a corner, guarding a pile of gems much larger than what he had been allotted and cackling greedily to himself.
Despite the King's best efforts, Lyschek would not leave his corner, or forsake any of his treasures. When he began to grow, the King left swiftly, lest he be killed by his mad subject.
It was with a heavy heart that the Dragon King discovered that Lyschek's madness had not been an isolated incident. Formerly diligent and duty-bound dragons had lost track of their griffon and equine slaves in order to fight each other over the ownership of gemstones. Some lay guarding their spoils, and others lay impotently clawing at the ground as they shrank.
Knowing not what else he could do, the Dragon King flew back to the top of the mountain. When he looked out at the land once more, it was with great sadness, and boiling tears ran down his face.
With a flash of blinding-white light, an angel appeared before the King. She was shaped like a pony, but stood far taller, and had both a horn and a pair of wings. Her whole body glowed with light that obscured her features, and the King threw himself to the ground to avoid gazing upon her.
"Jhangren," she said, speaking the King's name, "you and your dragons have unearthed a terrible weapon and used it to balance the state of affairs on this island overwhelmingly in your favour. I could not stand by and watch such a thing happen, so I have cursed your people."
The King whimpered softly, but did not lift his eyes to face the angel.
"Henceforth, a dragon who owns too many gemstones will be driven to madness by a desire to have more," continued the angel. "Your species shall be defined by the greed you have shown in your conquest for this land. Dragons will spend their long lives in constant concern, always worrying that one more gold piece could be the difference between a niggling voice in the back of their heads and utter delirium."
The King sunk lower to the ground at this point, wishing that the earth would swallow him up.
"But," said the angel, softening her tone considerably, "I have provided a way for dragons to overcome this fatal flaw. If anydragon gives freely and kindly to a member of another species – be it a pony, camel, griffon or any among the sentient peoples – then their bond with that individual shall always be enough to overcome their temptations."
With that, the angel disappeared, and the King flew back down to the surface of the island. In the coming weeks, he stole and ate as many gemstones as he could, getting other dragons to help him as they were cured of their madness. With no further hunger for fighting and no love for the other factions, despite what the angel had told him, he had his subjects build great boats and before many years had passed, the dragons left that island behind them.
The King only told the story of the angel on the mountain with his dying breaths, for the curse he had brought on his species ashamed him so.
«-oOo-»
"When a dragon forges a bond with a member of another species, that individual is known as the dragon's gafcomp, which is the word for 'guardian angel' in the old language," said the King as his sphere of black flame faded out for the final time and collapsed in on itself. "You, Ms Sky Wave, are Ms Venkra's gafcomp, for she 'gave' you that golden chain – which is actually mine, and will remain mine, but the workings of such magic can be liberal with their interpretations of 'ownership'."
"Oh!" Sky exclaimed, "then you should have this back!"
She reached into her saddlebag and pulled the long golden chain out with her mouth, dropping it in a snaking heap in front of her. "It's suprising how light it is," she remarked.
"Yes, I have most of my treasure enchanted in some way or another," explained the King. "On second thought, why not keep the chain? I won't miss it."
"Thank you, your Highness!" Sky and Venkra said in unison. They looked at each other and grinned awkwardly.
"Thanks for saving me from my greedy dragon nature," Venkra whispered.
"Uh, you're welcome?" Sky whispered back.
While Venkra and Sky were whispering to each other, the Dragon King's eyes twitched from side to side and he put a clawed right hand to his chin, stroking it thoughtfully. He looked down at White's expectant gaze.
"Ah!" he cried, snapping his claws and lifting his head up to the ceiling once more. "Of course, that's what I needed to do..."
The King coughed and put on a serious expression. "Mister White Noise, thou hast travelled far to learn the ancient secrets of dragon communication and green dragonfire. We have agreed to disclose these secrets to thee, for we trust that thou wilt not misuse them. Listen closely!"
With this, the King's neck shot down and he brought his head to a hovering stop just in front of White Noise, who could feel his hot breath on his fur and couldn't decide whether he was more elated than frightened or more frightened than elated.
"You ponies are familiar with the statement 'friendship is magic', aren't you?" asked the Dragon King.
Remembering his discussion with Twilight Sparkle in Ponyville and feeling just a little bit sheepish for having laughed at her about the focus of her studies, White nodded vigorously.
"Ah, good. Princess Celestia has taught you well, then," the King continued. "You know, back when she was just 'Celestia the Alicorn', it was I who taught her that saying. She was a very independent young pony... as was her mother."
White's eyes widened. "You knew Princess Celestia's mother?"
The King chuckled heartily. "Since she was but a filly. I have walked this earth for twenty thousand years, and I shall walk it much longer yet. Now, watch!"
The Dragon King took a deep breath and expelled another spurt of black flame. Instead of forming into a ball, this flame formed a wobbly plain and lit up with colours that dimmed as it slowly dissipated. It lasted long enough for White to see himself on it.
White saw him, Sky and Sibwashie walking through the gate and into Dragonia. Another burst of black flame showed him the scene in Venkra's cave. A final blast reminded him of the ordeal in the treasury that had happened only an hour before.
"Black dragonfire allows me to see things," continued the Dragon King, once the last of the flames had faded, "things that should be far too far away for me to see, and things that happened in the distant past. I have watched you and your companions since you entered my country, and I paid close attention to your actions and words in the treasury room. You are already aware of the boost that your magic experiences when your friends need your help, and so you already know of the magic of friendship in that context.
"With dragons, there is a little more. Allow me to show you."
The Dragon King slowly slid his eyelids over his eyes and began to hum softly. White felt his horn light up involuntarily, and his pupils shrunk to pinpricks as he a powerful and unfamiliar presence enter his mind.
You are in luck, young unicorn! Your mind is already open to the magic of friendship that we dragons know so well!
You can do this too?!
Of course I can! And not because I am a king or a special individual, but because all dragons are capable of telepathy, and most dragons use it on a day-to-day basis. Why do you think it is that we have an old language to cherry-pick words like "gafcomp" from, but no new language to hide our thoughts from foreigners with?
Wait, but... that doesn't make sense! If all dragons can do this, then why couldn't I access Venkra's mind back in the treasury? Was it because she was insane?
Logical assumption, but no. Why? Because as experienced users of telepathy, we dragons naturally protect ourselves from the kind of interference that new telepaths perpetrate on those with unsuspecting minds unfamiliar with foreign thoughts.
So... Venkra was naturally blocking my, uh, "signal"?
Yes, but don't think that your plan would have succeeded had that not been the case. I suspect, from previous experience, that you have been able to manipulate others by planting thoughts in their heads. This is only an effective tactic because those people cannot fathom the existence of thoughts in their heads that are not their own, but we dragons are very familiar with such things.
I think I get that, but I have a question.
Yes?
I see that this is definitely a form of "communication magic", but what does it have to do with how green dragonfire sends messages?
Why, everything! Green dragonfire disintegrates objects, shoots them along the intangible bond everydragon has with everydragon else and recreates those objects at the other end of the line. That's why it requires two dragons, and why it is functionally instant – one cannot hope to measure friendship or love in miles or kilometres, now can one?
What about Princess Celestia? How does she receive messages?
After she unlocked her telepathy, I inducted her into the dragon network and taught her the spell she would need to recreate the messages on her end. She can't send messages on her own, of course – nopony can breath green flame!
Could you teach me that spell too?
I have already decided to. I shall teach you the spell I taught your Princess, and at the same time, I shall teach you to control your telepathy. Your mind is weary with the stress that comes with having such great power. I shall ease your burden, White Noise.
White's eyes shot open. A soft buzzing filled his ears, and he took a moment to realise that the Dragon King's head had left him. When the buzzing subsided, he heard the King conferring with his friends.
"– and we will be busy with that for quite some time. You three will wait outside the throne room until we are done and you are called for."
"Yes, your Highness," replied Sky.
She and the others bowed to the king once more and waved at White before leaving the now-open doors of the throne room, which closed swiftly behind them.
***
The atmosphere just outside the throneroom was tense. The two guards stood at attention outside the great doors, and Sky, Sibwashie and Venkra milled about awkwardly in front of them.
Sky was the first to speak. "So I guess I'm your gafcomp now?"
"Yeah, I guess," Venkra retorted.
"Uh, did I do something wrong?" asked Sky. "Is there something about me that isn't gafcomp-ey enough?"
Venkra's snout sunk into her claws, and an awkward silence filled the cavern for at least a minute before she replied.
"No, Sky," she said softly. "You're a nice pony, and I'm grateful that you... well... I guess I'm grateful that you almost got yourself killed in order to snap me out of my little spell. Yeah, that's what I'm grateful for. Sounds a little messed up, doesn't it?"
Sky dug at the ground with a forehoof. To Venkra, her silence said everything.
Venkra sighed. "I'm ashamed of myself for needing a gafcomp, Sky. Really, I'm glad it's you, and I'm glad that us being acquaintances – should I say friends? – will stop me from doing something like that again, but I shouldn't need it."
Venkra and Sky sat down face-to-face, and Sibwashie ambled over to them with a puzzled look on his face. He had been listening to their conversation.
"From what I can surmise,
A gafcomp is a great prize.
"Surely all dragons should have one to curb and soften their base desires?
Why do you live with this curse, when a friend is all its breaking requires?" he recited.
"Maybe if the world was perfect... maybe then everydragon would be big pals with their own pony or zebra or narwhal," Venkra snapped. "But that's not how it is! As things are, dragons keep to themselves. I am the nineteenth dragon to ever have a gafcomp, and it's a badge of weakness!"
Sky's ears drooped.
"Let me tell you about what's important in dragon society," continued Venkra. "It's size. The size of a dragon denotes how much they matter. Why? Because the more you hoard, the more you grow, and the more you grow, the more you want to hoard. Everydragon has a breaking point – a point where they amass enough treasure to have a completely overpowering desire to get more – a desire that clouds their rationality and makes them little more than beasts."
The next lines came as a soft whisper. "You've seen that happen to me."
Sky bit her lip.
Blinking the beginnings of tears out of her eyes, Venkra resumed talking at her normal volume. "A bigger dragon obviously has a bigger hoard, and if a big dragon with a big hoard is still sane and rational, they must have a lot of self-control. That's why the King is so massive – he has the greatest self-control of all of us."
"So... having a gafcomp means you don't need self-control to stop your greed?" Sky asked tentatively.
"Pretty much, yep," replied Venkra. "I must say, it's a relief to be rid of that little voice in the back of my head that kept telling me to ransack your saddlebags, but I can kiss goodbye to getting any respect... Not that any of this is your fault, Sky! Please don't think that!"
Sky thought that, but put on an understanding face for her friend's sake. "So, uh, is there anything I have to do to be your gafcomp? Do I have to, like, move to Dragonia?"
"No! No, of course not," Venkra gasped. "Sky, being a gafcomp doesn't even mean we have to see each other often! Just knowing that, uh, you're out there somewhere is enough to... woah, this sounds kinda weird."
Sky nodded. Dragons are so strange, she thought.
"Uh, you know, Sky, my father had a gafcomp in his twilight years," Venkra said, her face brightening up.
"Really?" Sky replied, perking up.
"Her name was Mary. We always called her his little pony friend, which annoyed her greatly, because she was a donkey. It was kind of funny."
Sky chuckled. "Is she still around?"
"Oh, uh, no," Venkra replied hastily. "She, uh, there was... there was an accident."
"I'm so sorry to hear that! What happened?"
Venkra bit her lip and rubbed the back of her neck. "It's not, uh, not something I really like to talk about. I'm sorry. I'll tell you... just not right now."
Sky didn't press the issue, but gave Venkra a sympathetic look.
***
White was seated on the stone floor, unmoving. His eyes were shut tight, and his horn was glowing. Concentrate... His ears perked up at the sound of a piece of parchment being incinerated. The glow of his horn dimmed as he focused his magic inward. A warmth in his stomach told him that he was succeeding.
Before his lesson from the King, White had cast only a few ambient spells for various classes, each for no more than an hour. He'd always been frightened that he'd cast one, forget about it, and have it drain all of his magic. But thinking back on his journey, he found that that fear didn't have much of a hold over him anymore.
BZAP! White felt his horn pulse. He opened his eyes to see an intact scroll hang in the air for an instant, and then plummet to the ground. A slight scent of smoke mixed with the smell of cut grass told him that his spell had succeeded.
Well done, White Noise, came a voice in his head. Open it.
White enveloped the scroll with his magic and unfolded it before his eyes. It contained a short message, written in painstakingly perfect calligraphy.
All dragons share a bond, and now so dost thou, Mind-Dragon. Bear thy new title with pride, and wield thy power with responsibility.
Strength is in numbers. Insight is in communication. A mind is better shared.
White looked up from the scroll and into the King's face. His wide smile showed his many large teeth.
"This same scroll was presented to Princess Celestia five hundred years ago," he said. "Along with her and three others, you are now a Mind-Dragon. Do not abuse your position."
"I won't, your Majesty," White replied gravely, dropping down into a very low bow.
"Good." The Dragon King seemed pleased with White's response. "Now, is there anything else you require of me?"
White was about to reply that there wasn't when he suddenly remembered something, and chastised himself for almost letting it go unsaid. "Umm, yes, your Highness. There is one thing... to do with the Lunar Republic."
"The Lunar Republic?" asked the King. "Is that on the moon?"
"No, your Majesty, it's an island – around halfway between the Zebrican and Equestrian shores, I think. Anyway, it's been having a, uh, a bit of a... 'dragon problem'."
The King raised an eyebrow. "A 'dragon problem'? How do you mean, young Mind-Dragon?"
White told the Dragon King all about the dragon who had been burning up farms all around the Lunar Republic, how Sibwashie had failed to reason with him, and how they'd had to organise a more antagonistic solution to the problem.
"...and so we'd really like to be able to deal with the dragon without choking him with dirt, but he's burning down crops that ponies need to live," White concluded.
"Interesting. I must admit that I had no idea there were any dragons living on that island. I do try to monitor as many members of my species as possible, but the ones in Dragonia simply must take priority." The Dragon King put a clawed hand to his chin and got a far-off look in his eyes. "I am going to cast my mind towards this island and take a look at the mind of this dragon."
"Towards the island?" White asked "But, you told me that telepathy works along the lines of relationships, not physical locations. I don't understand."
"I'm glad you've been listening," the King replied. "Geography-based telepathy isn't something many of us use often, but it's necessary in this case because you haven't given me a name. I can't make use of the standard spells without a name. Now, let me concentrate."
The room went quiet as the Dragon King receded into his own mind, and White stood patiently waiting. After a few minutes, a sudden twitch in the King's face made it clear that he'd gotten through to the dragon.
"Ahh!" The King gripped his head in pain, and his eyes snapped open. "I've found him! The dragon... the dragon in the Lunar Republic is in great pain! He has lost his mind and become an unthinking monster! It hurts to watch the crude machinations of his broken mind!"
White gasped as the Dragon King jerked his head up to the ceiling of the cavern.
"White Noise," boomed the King. "Thou must make haste to the Lunar shore to rescue this poor soul from himself! Our subject Ms Venkra shall fly thee and thy companions there! Now go!"
Having given his orders, the King looked down at White, made a shooing motion with his claws, and pulled his neck away, hiding himself from view in his collection of treasure.
"But how will I...?"
You are a dragon in the mind now! Limitless are your resources! When you arrive, you shall know what to do.
"Bye, then," whispered White, rubbing his temples with a forehoof as the doors creaked open behind him. He still didn't feel very confident. "Thank you, your Majesty."
***
White's friends swarmed around him as he left the throneroom, their faces eager with questions. Before any of them could ask him anything, however, he held up and forehoof for silence. "Guess where Venkra's taking us and what we're going to do when we get there."
"First question, The Lunar Republic. Second question, we're going to help that dragon out," Sky replied.
White stared at her. "How did you know?"
"The King's voice is pretty loud, and these doors aren't that thick," she said matter-of-factly.
"Wait, I'm taking you somewhere?" Venkra asked incredulously. "Why would I" – she glared at the closed double doors – "Okay, okay, I'm taking them somewhere! Keep your scales on, Uncle Kasdar!"
Venkra shrugged towards her friends, and the four of them made their slow way back through the tunnels and out of the cave.
"Alright, ponies, hop on," Venkra ordered, once the travellers were standing on a jutting out ledge of Mount Olym once more. "Sky, you can fly alongside me for as long as you feel you're able, but there ain't gonna be any rest stops on this journey. My bedtime isn't for another thirty years."
|
Ezn
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997
| 14 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
|
2012-04-17T14:39:28+00:00
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2013-01-13T04:59:06+00:00
| 2,037 |
Chapter Fourteen
The streets of Tranquillity were quiet as Princess Luna, standing on the flat roof of an apartment complex, lowered her moon in preparation for the coming sunrise. She slowly breathed in and out as it dipped lower and lower, eventually disappearing from sight. Technically speaking, she did not have to lower the moon – it was able to follow the course she had set for it upon its ascension.
But Luna wanted to lower the moon. She wanted to guide it along its well-worn path through the heavens, nudging it in the direction it ought to go. Part of it was recompense for her refusal to lower the moon over a thousand years before. Part of it was that she had missed seeing her moon as a friend rather than as a prison.
With the moon lowered, its princess lowered herself to her haunches to watch the sun rise over the sea she glimpsed in the east.
Slowly, colour bled into the grey world: a rich red, followed by a bright orange, followed by all the colours of the rainbow and more. Luna blinked. Her eyes were strong enough to withstand the light of the sun, but she and her sister had long before trained themselves to blink with some regularity, so as not to alienate their subjects.
The Princess's ears perked up as they caught the sound of a creaking door behind her. The creaking was followed by a soft patter of tiny hooves.
Luna turned around and smiled at her visitor. It was a young earth pony filly with a white coat and a pink mane. On her back was a purple set of saddlebags, embroidered with pink hearts. Luna's smile widened as she mentally noted that the filly looked a little like Celestia had in the very distant past.
"HELLO, YOUNG ONE!" Luna greeted, making extra sure to enunciate her words clearly for the child's benefit.
The little filly put a hoof to her mouth and blushed slightly. She swiftly reached her snout into the saddlebag on her left side and produced a notepad and pencil.
Setting the notepad down on the floor in front of her, she took the pencil in her mouth and scribbled a quick note, before tearing it off the pad and presenting it to the Princess.
Luna squinted at the note. Equestrian writing had changed a lot since her exile, and although she had spent a lot of time reading books and asking her sister about the most important changes, she still wasn't entirely comfortable with it – especially when it was mouth-written and not printed. Still, Luna managed to make out the words on the foal's paper.
hello ur hyness
my name is cotton candy
thanks for makin al the flowers grow so qik
my momy is a flowrist n shes very hapy
Letting Luna take the note in her magic, the little filly reached her snout into her right saddlebag and pulled out the biggest, most brilliantly purple Moonorchid Luna had ever seen and laid it before the Princess's forehooves.
Luna's eyes were beginning to tear up at the note when the little filly started scribbling another note.
please rite on this paper princes
i cant hear if u talk to me
The filly presented her small pencil to Luna, who gently cradled it with her magic as she slowly wrote out a reply, using the same flowing script she used for important official documents.
We thankest thou immeasurably for thy flower, Miss Cotton Candy.
Please tell thy mother that it is truly the most beautiful Moonorchid we have ever seen.
Cotton Candy's eyes widened at the elegance of Luna's hornwriting as her paper and pencil were floated back to her. She smiled widely and bowed to the Princess clumsily, before packing her saddlebags and cantering off with a short wave.
Luna waved her forehoof behind the little filly, and looked back at the Moonorchid.
The brilliant purple of its petals and the vibrant green of its leaves seemed to glow in the early morning sunlight. As Luna brought the flower up to her face with her magic, she felt better about herself – more confident; stronger.
A breeze whipped through her hair. However, this breeze did not feel a simple gust of air – it was softer, and somehow more personal.
Princess Luna turned her head to inspect her tail and almost jumped for joy at what she saw. Her cyan hair had turned a rich, dark blue colour and was dotted by tiny stars. It flowed in a magical wind and had become slightly transparent, but not to the degree Nightmare Moon's had been.
Suddenly, the roof turned a purple colour, as Luna focused her magic. Sure enough, the fog all around her and the rest of the island was more opaque and thicker than it had been the last time she had checked.
***
"Ouch!"
Correspondence cocked an eyebrow at Melvin as the latter bashed his head against the roof of the shop for the third time that day. There were now three shallow indentations in the roof behind the counter, and Correspondence silently hoped that his boss wouldn't make too many more.
"Are you alright, sir?" he asked, the tiny hint of concern in his voice concealed by boredom.
"Uurgh, yes, Corr, I'm fine," Melvin replied, rubbing his head. "Maybe I wouldn't keep smacking my head like this if I could actually see. Are you sure you couldn't find any dragon-sized glasses in this whole town?"
"I looked everywhere, sir."
Melvin sighed heavily. "Typical Lunar Republic. I wish this place would get out of the Paleo-Pony Period."
"Perhaps you should be more concerned about your sudden growth than acquiring a new pair of glasses."
Melvin chuckled at this. "Corr, pal, everyone has to grow sometime. We may be similar ages, but I'm actually very young for a dragon. I mean, have you seen the sizes some of my species grow to? This sudden growth spurt is totally normal."
"If you say so, sir."
"Off with you, Corr! Go check the shops again! Place an order or something."
Correspondence nodded very slightly before turning around and swiftly cantering out the shop, leaving Melvin alone with his thoughts and his new, gangly limbs. Corr didn't think that he would actually find any glasses for his boss, but he was happy to take an extended lunch break.
Watching a tan smudge exit the white-and-brown smudge that was his shop, Melvin squinted and assured himself that his diligent new employee would be able to find him a new pair of glasses before the day was up. He looked down at a black smudge that was his glasses on the wood-brown smudge that was his counter and sighed heavily. He had had that pair of glasses for a long time.
Melvin switched his attention to the white smudge on the counter as he felt his eyes misting up. He was unable to read Correspondence's digest that day, but from what the writer had told him, he wasn't missing much. Every newspaper in Equestria was reporting on basically the same story, and while this made his and Corr's jobs that much easier and cheaper, wasn't all that interesting to hear about.
Apparently the strange, slow relocation of enormous and dangerous beasts from the depths of the Everfree Forest to the outskirts of Ponyville had hit a fever pitch, and citizens were on full alert for an outright attack. Enormous hydras, cerberuses and star beasts had somehow been pushed out of their natural habitats, and none of them were happy about it. Froggy-Bottom Bog was becoming overcrowded, and nopony knew what to do about it.
That day's Ponyville Express, Melvin had been told, had a stirring tale of heroism as its cover story. Apparently, Twilight Sparkle – Princess Celestia's personal student and arguably the most powerful unicorn in Equestria – had, with the help of the town's other unicorns, successfully rescued the apple orchard of a local farm from a Cancer's menacing pincers. The other unicorns had used a ground-breaking new magical technique, in which they fed their magic supplies into Twilight's horn, making her even more powerful than she already was.
The papers were optimistic about this brave defense, but most of them also carried an undercurrent of concern. So far, every magic expert and cryptozoologist who had arrived in Ponyville had been completely unable to figure out what had displaced the creatures and made them so aggressive.
Melvin didn't have any idea about what it could be either, but the stories made him glad that he was an ocean away from all the of the trouble. Not because it frightens me, of course, he thought. Just because I've got so many better things to do than listen to ponies panic about the Everfree. Now, if the Princesses were actually smart, then they'd just track down The Great and Powerful Trixie and have her single-hoofedly sort out the whole mess... but I di–
Something golden glinted in the corner of Melvin’s eye, interrupting his train of thought.
"Hello, Mr Melvin!" called a jovial voice, which Melvin quickly identified as belonging to Flint Hardrock, one of his regular customers.
"Evening, M-Mr Hardrock," Melvin stuttered, trying to not to focus on the shining gold dot in the middle of the smudgy brown mess that was the customer he needed to serve. "How can I help you?"
"Just the usual – one jar of Baltimare fire, please," Flint said, smiling extra wide, much to Melvin's dismay.
Mr Hardrock was a dark grey earth pony prospector who appeared to Melvin as a dark grey smudge – except for the very clearly defined, shining golden tooth in the left side of his mouth. It was the only thing Melvin had seen in days that wasn't a smudge, and he had to tear his eyes away from its glinting surface to tend to his business.
"There we go, sir," Melvin said breathlessly, smacking the jar of dragonfire down on the counter breathlessly. "That'll be thirty-five bits please."
Flint paid the bits quickly and, with an amiable nod, picked the jar up between his teeth and turned around to leave the shop, mumbling a farewell. Melvin waved after him absently, his attention captured by the bits on his counter.
Why are they so clear? he wondered. "In Celestia We Trust".... I shouldn't be able to read that!
But Melvin was glad that he could, despite the mystery. He hugged the coins to himself, before slumping under the counter and adding them to his stash.
***
Joyous Dawn tossed her copy of the Dragonfire Digest aside, sick to her stomach of reading about Equestria's issues. She then turned to her copy of that day's Canterlotian and scoured it for stories that weren't about Ponyville, or monsters, or the Everfree Forest, or magic theory related to any of those three things.
Page ten. There was a small blurb about the upcoming Lunar Republican election on page ten, and somepony had left the "u" out of her name. Dawn pouted and tossed the paper aside, letting it join the Dragonfire Digest and the Fillydelphia Post.
Joyous Dawn's demeanour softened as her horn lit up. A soft breeze seemed to blow through her mane as she sensed a gentle, welcome presence just outside of her door.
"Please come in, Barley," she asked, already pulling her door open with her telekinesis.
Barley smiled awkwardly from the doorframe. "Sometimes I wish you'd wait for me to know, Madam President."
"And waste my special talent?" Joyous Dawn laughed heartily. "If you only knew the things I went through to get this cutie mark!"
"I'd love to hear more of those stories sometime!" Barley replied cheerfully. "Anyway, I picked up a copy of the The Daily Moon for you, ma'am."
"Thank you, dear." Dawn plucked the paper out from under Barley's left wing and levitated it in front of her face. "Oh my! Have you seen this, Barley?"
"I sure have, Madam President."
Dawn smiled smugly as her eyes scanned the article that dominated the front page of the Lunar Republic's most widely circulated newspaper.
NLR REPLANTS DECIMATED ORCHARD
Occupants of Fresh Pear Farmstead were pleasantly surprised to wake up to the beginnings of a new orchard on the land where their old one had been burnt down by a series of unprovoked dragon attacks. Mrs Pear, age forty, departed from her farmhouse in the early hours of the morning and was greeted by a cheerful group of unicorns claiming to be affiliated with the New Lunar Republic party...
The article went onto explain the scientific brilliance of the group's use of poorly-understood Zap Apple seeds for their ability to grow new trees with astounding rapidity, which, compounded with the Lunar Republic's natural agricultural magic, meant that the country's dragon threat was almost entirely countered.
"We've already won!" Barley exclaimed. "There are gonna be a whole lot more ponies calling you 'Madam President' very soon, Madam President."
Dawn smiled gently at her assistant. "Now, now, Miss Barley. You and I both know that we didn't use the party's resources to do this just for votes. We did it because we care about this country, and because we want to see it become the agricultural powerhouse that we both know it should already be."
"Riiight..." teased Barley, belabouring a wink. “I got ya, Madam President."
Dawn's smile widened into a grin, and she gave a short chuckle.
***
The fire crackled and danced in the brick fireplace, casting a warm glow on the small dining room of the Noble Manticore Inn. Of the four tables and sets of chairs, only one was occupied. Mr and Mrs Hospitality sat across from two of their guests.
"…and that's why it's called the Noble Manticore Inn!" Grassfire Hospitality finished, coming to the end of his well-practiced tale once more.
The unicorn couple sitting across the table smiled at the story. The mare of the group nodded politely, and the stallion said nothing.
"Forgive my husband, dears," apologised Petunia. "He just loves telling that story; so much so that I'm sure he hasn't even asked about you! Where are you two travelling from?"
"Oh, uh," the mare began hesitantly, glancing at her husband. "We're from Ponyville. Going to visit family in Neighton."
"How delightful! I hear it's wonderful there this time of year!"
Grassfire narrowed his eyes at the couple and began speaking in a low, conspiratorial tone, "You chose a good time to get out, what with all that monster business. My father always told me that only fools would build a town so close to Everfree. Surprising how it took this long for that to bit Ponyville in the fl–"
"Grassfire!" Petunia slapped her husband's shoulder with a forehoof, shooting him a disapproving glare. "He means no offence, dears."
"I agree with him," came the stallion's stern, low voice. "That town's a disaster waiting to happen – strike that, it's a disaster that keeps happening! Ursas, hydras, Cancers, what next?!"
"That so...?" Grassfire wondered aloud, smiling smugly at his wife.
"Yes, yes, my husband is right," added the mare. "We're hoping that things will be back to normal once we come back. You'd think that it would have been sorted out already, with all the scientists and wizards who've been cluttering the streets for weeks, but I suppose such things must take time."
Petunia sighed understandingly. "Oh, they certainly do, dearie... Grassfire, tell them about that minotaur who visited us back when we first opened up – now that was a mess!"
Not needing more than a slight nudge to get talking again, Grassfire launched into yet another story and regaled their guests with it until they finally excused themselves to go to bed.
One exchange of cordial goodnights later, Trapper and Tamer sat on their bedroom's queen-sized bed, poring over the letter they'd fetched from Dragonfire Delivery earlier that day.
"Boss wants us to hop on the first boat back to the Republic," the stallion Trapper said. "She wants to present us with our pay herself, 'for doing such a sterling job', she says."
Tamer chuckled. "Long as she doesn't stiff us, I'm happy to oblige. With the money that's coming our way, we can make a cruise of it."
"Sounds like a plan. Just don't tease the sea serpents this time, alright?"
***
Joyous Dawn and Barley sat on a pair of cushions in the former's office. A radio on the desk was tuned to the Republic's only station, and the ponies' ears stood at attention waiting for the election results to be announced.
Barley's wing flicked nervously. "Just a few more minutes," she whispered.
"Yes..." Dawn replied, her voice low and dry. Her ordinarily smooth, immaculate bun was a spidery mess of loose strands, and Barley could see bags under her eyes.
"...and coming up after this next song: the results of yesterday's presidential election! The hard-working ponies at the Electoral Commission have been busy counting the votes all night and much of this morning, and they've just informed me that they're almost ready to make a statement!
"For now, though, I'd like you all to just sit back and enjoy some relaxing tunes..."
A slow, ambient track started playing, and Dawn frowned ever-so-slightly. Despite being written as "relaxing music", the song quickly frustrated her.
"It's okay, boss," Barley reassured, seeing Dawn's irritation. "I've heard this one before – it's only two minutes long!"
Dawn tried put on the widest fake smile she could and ended up with a blank expression.
Two agonising minutes later, the radio crackled as it transitioned from music to an announcer's voice. "The votes have been counted, fillies and gentlecolts!"
"At last!" Barley exclaimed cheerfully. "Tell us, Smooth Talk!"
"Drumroll please!" A drumroll started up in the background. "Fillies and gentlecolts, the winner of the election – and your new ruling party – is – wait for it... The... NEWLUNARREPUBLICPARTY! Woo-hoo! Give it up!"
A racuous sound of hooves beating against the ground drowned out the announcer's voice, and Dawn reached out a hoof to turn off the radio. Her facial expression hadn't changed.
"Barley," she began, speaking in a very even tone, "who did you say that radio present was?"
"Smooth Talk, Madam President!" Barley shouted, barely containing her excitement at the utterance of the latter two words.
The corners of Dawn's mouth turned up slightly. "Is he a government employee?"
"Yes, Madam President!"
Dawn glanced sideways at Barley before proudly raising herself up off her cushion. Her slight smile cracked into a full-on grin.
"For my first act as President of the Lunar Republic," she stated, "I am going to fire Mr Smooth Talk and hire somepony who knows the difference between a presidential election and a prize raffle."
"As you wish, Madam President!" Barley had a feeling that she wouldn't soon tire of saying that, no matter how many of her favourite radio presenters her boss fired.
***
Sky peered over the leathery edges of Venkra's wings, letting her eyes take in the vast ocean below them. Water extended as far as she could see in every direction.
"How are you feeling?" she asked, trotting closer to Venkra's right ear.
"Perfectly fine, thank you!" replied Venkra. "I flew much further than this every twenty years for around two hundred years, you know."
"Oh! Was that for the Great Dragon Migration?" Sky asked, remembering the time her parents had allowed her to watch it as a very young foal.
"We dragons don't generally call the migration 'great', but yes, it was for that. The idea behind it is to get the younger and more restless dragons out of the old folks' spines and to give them a chance to practice flying with their new wings."
"Fascinating!" called White. "It's astounding how much we ponies have got wrong about dragons!"
Venkra smirked. "Yeah... you guys aren't known for your expertise on creatures other than yourselves."
Sibwashie, who was sitting rigidly and staring straight up, managed to loosen up for a second to chuckle at this.
"Anyway," White redirected, feeling a bit put out, "what are we going to do when we land? About the rampaging dragon, I mean. What's the usual procedure in these circumstances, Venkra?"
"Well, it depends..." Venkra began, speaking carefully. "There are different kinds of 'dragon rampages', and treatment depends entirely on what kind is happening – something you can't know until you see the dragon for yourself."
"Different kinds?" asked Sky. "What kinds?"
"Well, there's what happens when a dragon succumbs to her innate greed, like what happened with me in the treasury. And then there's..."
The sound of great wings beating against the wind was the only noise that reached their ears for a few moments, as Venkra gathered her thoughts.
"...there's the other kind of rampage – a rarer one that's much harder to snap a dragon out of," Venkra continued. "It's the kind that happens if a dragon's... gafcomp is... killed."
Sky gasped.
"The dragon's eyes turn milky white and he goes into not a fit of greed and desire, but a violent frenzy, prompting him to destroy everything in his path. The dragon's grief at the murder of a gafcomp is a wild and terrible thing." Venkra's voice had taken on a sad, contemplative tone.
Thoughts connected in White's brain and before he could ask the question he was busy phrasing, Venkra spoke again.
"It happened to my father."
***
Corr trotted through the quiet streets of Port Welcome, on his way to work early in the morning, before anypony else was stirring. His boss Melvin was a diligent worker, and Corr knew that he'd find the shop already open, even at the early hour. It helped that Melvin slept in the shop's backroom.
Letting out a short, measured sigh, Corr steeled himself for the day ahead. He had thus far been unable to find his boss a pair of glasses that would fit the latter's ever-widening skull and had for the past few days been tasked with reading aloud every scrap of writing he came into contact with. Corr was a quiet pony; he estimated that he had done more talking in the previous three days than in the three months before that. A rustle of his saddlebag made a swishing noise, informing him that he had not left his much-needed bottle of water at home that morning.
An eyebrow raised above Corr's right eye as the shop came into view. The door was locked and he could clearly make out that the sign was flipped to the "Sorry, We're Closed" side.
His pulse quickened as he checked the watch on his foreleg. It was completely unlike Melvin to sleep in this long – he was a very early riser. Corr knew that his boss had been acting a bit strangely since the start of the unexpected growth spurts, but this was on a whole new level.
Assuring himself that Melvin had just had an uncharacteristic late night, Corr turned his head back to rustle around in his rightside saddlebag. He found his key to the shop nestled between two copies of the Dragonfire Digest he had prepared a few hours before.
The key was fitted with a mouthgrip, so Corr had little difficulty turning it in the lock and unlocking the door. A forehoof pushed the door and he peeked around it into the dim room beyond. Nothing stirred.
CREAK. The door slowly opened the full way, and Corr stepped inside, feeling uncomfortably aware of the sounds his hooves made on the wooden floor. Entering the shop without being greeted by Melvin was downright eerie.
A low rumbling sound reached Corr's ears from beyond the door to the back room. Wasting no time, Corr hurried to the door and knocked on it with a slightly shaking forehoof.
"Good morning, sir," he said sharply. "It's a few minutes to opening time."
There was no response.
Corr put a hoof to his chin. "Oh, sorry! Silly me! I meant to say that it's a few minutes past opening time. You'd better get out here, sir."
The low rumbling returned and swiftly became a loud roar. Corr stumbled back as he heard a loud thud from behind the door. Maybe that tactic was a little too effective, he thought.
Corr barely had time to snap out of his thoughts and roll out of the way when a great claw crashed through the backroom door, sending splinters flying everywhere.
"ROAR!" The claw retracted and a big, angry eye glared through the hole in the door. It focused on a spot on the wall just above Corr. His blood froze.
Was that...? No, it can't be...
"S-sir?" asked Corr, voice shaking.
The dragon behind the door growled in response.
Corr's ears flattened against his head, and he slowly backed away from the angry dragon eye that was staring him down. He fought to control his panicked mind and tried to come up with a logical plan.
I'll get help, he decided. I'll go straight to the police station and see if they can do anything about this. But first, I need to get out. Back away slowly... back away slowly, and then close the door.
Trying to take his mind off the possible dietary habits of large, savage dragons, Corr slowly backed out of the door and softly but firmly pushed it closed.
Lock it!
Thankfully, Corr had left his key in the lock when he entered the store moments earlier. Within seconds, he had locked the door and was galloping down the street, garnering a few raised eyebrows from the few ponies awake at that time.
The police station was two blocks away. A breathless Corr stumbled into its lobby and collapsed against the front desk, panting heavily and looking uncharacteristically distressed.
"Well, what a surprise!" came a bubbly, girlish voice from behind the desk. "Whatever could have happened to get the stony-faced Correspondence into such a state?"
Looking at Bluebottle, his childhood friend, straight in the eyes, Corr stammered, "Dragon! Dragonfire Delivery! Big! Scary! Hungry!"
"Well, no, Mr Melvin is actually a pretty small dragon –"
"Not recently! Look, point is, he's grown all big and he's angry! He smashed the door of our backroom in! I've got him locked up, but he could escape any sec–"
Corr was cut off by a loud roar and a heavy thud. Eyes widening, he spun around and rushed out of the police department, Bluebottle hot on his hooves.
A gigantic blue-scaled dragon with an armful of golden bits and jars of dragonfire towered above the low building of Port Welcome, standing just a few metres outside of Corr's workplace. His head was pointed at the sky, and his mouth was open in a loud roar.
As Corr and Bluebottle stared, the dragon lifted the slanted roof off the top of the building directly across the street from Dragonfire Delivery and poured his horde into it.
"I see what you mean," Bluebottle said to Corr, growing serious. "I'm on it."
"How?!" Corr demanded.
"This distraught thing kinda suits you, Corry," Bluebottle teased, flicking her blue wings open and narrowing her brown eyes. "Do me a favour and use the radio in the station to call for some backup."
Before Corr could say anything about protocol, Bluebottle took off and shot towards the great dragon who was terrorising her fair town.
"Hey scaly!" she shouted. "Take this!"
Bluebottle spun around in the air to point her back legs ahead of her, in direct collision course with the dragon's snout. She closed her eyes and braced for impact.
Before her hooves hit the dragon's snout, she was snatched up by a pink blur from the side.
"That's a really stupid idea," said a mare's voice. "Do you have any idea how tough dragonhide is?"
Bluebottle opened her eyes in surprise to find a pink mare with a crimson mane carrying her. "Hey! What are you doing? How dare you assault a police officer!"
The mare rolled her eyes. "You'll thank me later."
The pegasi touched down on a flat rooftop within moments, and the pink mare turned Bluebottle's head to face the dragon – only she now found herself facing two dragons.
"That one's on our side," Sky whispered into Bluebottle's ear.
|
Ezn
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997
| 15 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-05-27T05:42:48+00:00
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2013-01-13T05:05:32+00:00
| 2,227 |
Chapter Fifteen
Bluebottle watched, eyes widened in awe, as the purple dragon swooped down from the sky and landed solidly on her hindlegs a few metres in front of the giant blue dragon. He faced her and growled defensively, tightening his claws around their small hoard.
The purple dragon raised an eyebrow and extended her wings, casting a large shadow behind her.
"Sibwashie, we're finally going to defeat the dragon!" said an excited male voice from behind Bluebottle. "I didn't think we'd find him right here in Port Welcome, but here he is!"
Bluebottle turned around to see a stocky zebra and a white unicorn. The former frowned and leaned over to whisper something in the latter's ear.
The unicorn's face fell. "Black scales... wings... red eyes... Right, right, of course. So this is just some other dragon, then."
Bluebottle's face creased in confusion. "Who are you po– err, people?" She frowned. "And what's with the dragon?"
"I'm Sky Wave, the unicorn's White Noise and the zebra's Sibwashie," Sky said to her quickly. "The dragon's name is Venkra."
As if on cue with her introduction, Venkra swung a fist at the blue dragon's face, the wind whistling by as she barely missed it. A crowd had begun to assemble on the street below.
Venkra recovered from her missed punch and whipped her fisted claw back, preparing to try again. A look in the blue dragon's eyes told her he was anticipated that. Smiling inwardly, she thrust her fist forward, extending her claws at the last moment. The flat of her hand missed his face entirely and gave him a solid shove in the chest instead.
It worked. The blue dragon staggered backwards. Enraged, he grabbed a jar of dragonfire and tossed it at Venkra. It broke against her left claws, which had shot up to shield her face just in time, and its contents dissipated in a puff of green smoke.
"He has dragonfire jars?" White wondered aloud.
In the middle of the substantial and still-growing crowd on the streets, a tan earth pony wearing a boater hat produced a megaphone. His voice carried all the way to Bluebottle's rooftop.
"Step up, folks, step up and bet on the fight of the century! Two terrific titans – draconic destroyers – monsters of mayhem – they're both strong and they're both fast, but who will win? Will it be the pretty Purple Punisher or the boisterous Blue Bruiser? Place your bets here, folks, and win big!"
Much to the shock of all four ponies on the roof, the crowds flocked to the boater-hatted pony, whose boater hat was soon heavy with bits.
"Some ponies..." Bluebottle scoffed, producing a slim book from her shirt pocket and flicking through it.
As Bluebottle pored over her police handbook, Sky turned away from her to rejoin her friends. White's face had turned even paler than usual.
"What's wrong, White?" she asked.
White pointed a shaking hoof at the fight. "Look at that dragon."
"Yeah, Venkra's a real pal, isn't she?"
"Not her, the other one!"
"What about him? He doesn't seem very nice. Probably on some kind of rampage – the greed one, with any luck."
"He doesn't have wings. He's blue. Who does that remind you of?"
Sky gasped. "It can't be..."
All of a sudden, a door flew open behind the group on the roof, and a breathless tan earth pony staggered out of it. Strands of black hair were coming loose from his slicked-back mane, and he stared ahead with wide brown eyes.
"Bluebottle! Thank goodness you're fine! I was certain my boss had injured you in his madness."
"Pah, I can handle a baby dragon!"
"...your boss?" asked White, feeling at a loss.
The emotion dropped from Corr's demeanour and his wild mane almost seemed to fall back into place as he straightened up and faced White Noise. "Yes, sir, my boss – Melvin the Dragon, manager of the Lunar Republic branch of Dragonfire Delivery."
Before White could reply, the group's attention was jerked back to the fight in the streets by a loud roar. Their forelegs locked together, Melvin and Venkra wrestled with each other, swaying back and forth as one or the other got the upper claw.
Sporadic shouts of "Punisher!" and "Bruiser!" shot out of the crowd, growing in frequency until the two terms were being chanted in turns, and then simultaneously.
"I fear that the opponents in the fight are too similar for one to win
For this to have the outcome we desire, we need to put a new element in," Sibwashie said gravely.
"I have an idea," replied White, lighting up his horn.
White's magic surged from his horn and spread over his face. The spell he had cast became obvious when an explosive "HEY MELVIN!" boomed from his lungs.
"Melvin! I'm back and I think we need to have a little chat about how you've been running my business!"
Whether because of some remaining shred of sanity or because of the White's loud, harsh tone, Melvin turned his head to face the ponies on the rooftop.
"H-his business?" Corr asked himself. "What have I..."
A smile flicked across Venkra's face. Wasting no time, she pushed down on Melvin's forelegs as hard as she could and brought him to the ground with a heavy, resounding thud.
"Yes!" shouted Sky, pulling her two friends into a hug. "Woo! Way to go, guys!"
A cacophonous mixture of sighs and elated whoops erupted from the crowd on the streets below, but soon turned to unified cries of dismay as the townsponies realised that their bet-organiser was no longer in the centre of the crowd.
***
From his hiding place behind a nearby office building, the pony with the boater hat breathed a sigh of relief and patted his heavy saddlebags with a forehoof.
"Give it here," came a cold, stern voice from above.
The pony looked up in horror to see a blue-coated police-pegasus hovering above him. He considered making a run for it in the split second before the rational side of his brain reminded him what a stupid idea it would be for an earth pony to attempt to outrun a pegasus.
"I'm confiscating your illegally acquired revenue," Bluebottle continued. "In accordance with the National Gambling Policy – section 33, paragraph B – the funds you raised will be put towards repairing the damage done."
With a defeated sigh, the earth pony pulled a sack of bits out of his saddlebag and pushed it a few inches in front of him.
"Thank you for your service to your country," Bluebottle said. "As a reward, I won't arrest you. You are free to go. And you'd better hurry up, too – that mob is looking pretty angry!"
The earth pony gave a curt nod and swiftly scurried off.
***
With Melvin pinned on the ground, the disaster was cleaned up swiftly. Teams of pegasi placed roofs back on buildings and fastened them there as best they could, and an earth pony cleanup crew removed the debris from the streets.
After some of the ponies from the hospital subdued Melvin with a few litres of tranquiliser, a group of unicorns was called in to create and maintain a magical forcefield around him. The task of figuring out what to do next was left to his employer and his shop assistant.
"So... what you're saying is that Melvin hired you to help out around the shop and write a news digest for him to sell?" asked White. "And, you're also saying that he paid you..."
Correspondence stated how much Melvin had been paying him.
White's jaw dropped. "Mr Correspondence, that's... that's more than double Melvin's own salary... I – I don't know how he could possibly have afforded to pay you that much, even with the extra revenue from selling the digests."
"Well, sir, the Lunar Republic is quite far away from most cities and towns in Equestria," Corr replied, battling to keep a look of incredulity off of his face.
"And so?"
"Well, uh, surely you know already, sir? I mean, from what you've told me, I gather you've just returned from a successful expedition to find out about the mechanics of dragonfire. And surely you must know about the different grades of fire required for transmitting messages over different distances!"
"Different grades? There's no such thing as –"
White's world slowed down for a moment as a sickening realisation dawned on him. He felt an uncomfortable pressure in his chest and could barely blurt out, "Corr, tell me ab-about the grades."
"Well, sir," Corr began, sounding utterly baffled. "For every extra metre of distance a letter transmitted via dragonfire goes, a dragon must use more and more of his inner magic to create dragonfire powerful enough to... Sir?"
Sky and Sibwashie murmured to each other as White put a hoof to his forehead. "It's rubbish," White said. "All of that. It's complete garbage. The whole point of sending messages by dragonfire is that distance doesn't matter. All this stuff Melvin told you about grades... he used it as an excuse to sell different jars of dragonfire for extra bits, didn't he?"
Correspondence nodded.
"Twenty bits, Correspondence. Just twenty bits per jar of dragonfire. Twenty for a Fillydelphia jar, twenty for a Hoofington jar, twenty for a Ponyville jar. Twenty bits for any jar from anywhere in the world. That was the whole point of my business..."
Slumping onto his haunches, White let out a long sigh. "So Melvin reworked the prices, started new initiatives and hired – no offence, Mr Correspondence, you weren't to know – without consulting me. And he got rich because of it. Rich... and greedy."
"Greedy, sir?" Corr asked, cocking an eyebrow.
"I'll let Venkra explain."
"Come, young one, let me tell you a tale of my people..." Venkra said, putting on mock airs. She flapped her wings and swooped to a spot in front of Corr, where she sat down and began animatedly retelling the Dragon King's story. Her audience recoiled only slightly at the sight of her pointy teeth inches from his snout.
White trotted to where Sky and Sibwashie were standing, looking at Melvin's sleeping form with hard, concentrating expressions.
"Any ideas?" he asked.
They shrugged at him. Sibwashie looked down at the street and Sky rubbed the back of her neck with a forehoof, casting her eyes away.
White smiled weakly. "Didn't think so."
Glancing between White's expression and the giant sleeping dragon in the middle of the street, Sky bit her lip. The three unicorns in charge of the magical barrier – all of whom had shield-related cutie marks – were hesitant to show it, but she could see the fatigue in their eyes. The barrier they'd had to conjure had to be large enough to cover a dragon and strong enough to resist its strength when it woke up. That couldn't be an easy thing to do, and Sky doubted they'd be able to keep it up perpetually while she and her friends aimlessly mulled over possible solutions.
"Well, there is one thing I've thought of, but I don't know if –"
"What?" White interrupted. "It can't hurt to try."
Sky took a breath and gathered her thoughts. "You know how you couldn't do that thing you do with the mind of a dragon, but then learnt how when the Dragon King taught you?"
White sighed. "Yes, and thank you for suggesting it, but even now I can't enter the mind of a dragon uninvited, because –"
"– the dragon won't let you, I know. You've told us. But right now, not only is Melvin out of his mind with greed, but he's also asleep. You managed to mess around with Sibwashie and my dreams for ages, so surely you can do something to his when he's in this state?"
"I... I'll give that a shot. I haven't tried to use my powers on a someone while they're asleep before."
As he always did when he prepared to cast his newest and most powerful spell, White closed his eyes and blocked out the world around him. He wasn't certain if it was strictly necessary, but it afforded the process a solemnity appropriate to the dangerous business of tampering with the thoughts of another sentient being.
Good luck, White! I wonder if he can hear this thought...
Hello, White Noise. Welcome to my brain.
Look a while, stay a while, but from damages refrain.
These ponies had better sort out their pet dragon soon, or I'm going to be going home with a massive headache.
I wonder if I'll still have a job after all this. I wonder what'll happen to Melvin. I suppose he deserves whatever he gets for commiting fraud like that, but he was a good boss and a shrewd businessdragon.
Gold. Bits. Dragonfire. Trixie Posters. All mine, all mine!
The final thought surprised White, and his surprise grew as a steady stream of similar thoughts flowed out from the same source. Melvin's madness coupled with his sleep had obviously lowered his innate mental defences.
White sent an excited thought to Sky. You were right! I can see Melvin's thoughts just as clearly as I can see all the rest of yours!
Hooray! That means you can fix him, right?
Yes, but I'll need your help, like last time.
Why do you need my help? Can't you just send your own thoughts to Melvin like you're doing with me?
But you know I'm talking to you. It's clear to you where your thoughts end and mine begin. To others, that distinction does not exist. The best way to keep myself from abusing this power is to only use it for communication – to only use it to move thoughts between the heads of others. Planting my own thoughts in others' heads... that's what I'm afraid of doing.
Okay, White, I trust you know what you're doing. What do you want me to think?
Think of gafcomps. Think of Venkra's delivery from her madness and how she hated it. Maybe that will help.
White waited as Sky composed her thoughts for a few moments, seeing jumbled words and sentences compose themselves and flop into place together.
Greed can destroy a dragon, and it's trying to destroy you. Fight the greed for the sake of your sanity. Fight it for the sake of your friends and the ponies who care about you.
With a determined grin, White plucked the finished thought out of the air and sent it along a cyan tendril of magic, straight into Melvin's head.
Gold, bits, riches, diamo– f-friends? Ponies who – gemstones – care? What ponies? Diamonds! Who cares? Rubies! Ponies?
Melvin's stream of thoughts became a tangled mess of conflicting ideas that grew and grew until all their light and sound were not mere words but pictures – moving pictures. White couldn't believe his mind's eye as images swam into focus around him. What's going on?
White looked down into a deep, dark cave, filled with gold and gemstones that provided the only light, glowing from within. Atop the great pile of riches sat Melvin, solemnly looking over his hoard.
Melvin! White sent a thought to the image of Melvin, uncertain about whether he was an apparition or the actual dragon.
"Yes, what?" Melvin snapped, his voice reaching White in a way that made him uncertain of whether he was hearing it in his mind or with his ears.
Fight this greed, Melvin! Stop rampaging and come back to us!
Melvin snarled. "Why should I do that? So that you can fire me formally?"
Melvin, if you can just break this curse, we'll be able to sit down and discuss that. I'm not an unreasonable pony, and I'd like to think I have a fairly good understanding of dragons now.
"A good enough understanding not to need us, I'm sure! That was the whole point of your journey, wasn't it?"
No, it –
"Understanding dragonfire means not needing dragons anymore. Maybe you don't like to think about it because you always tell yourself you're a nice, reasonable pony, but that's what it's all about. Now that you know all about how our fire works, it's just a matter of time before we all get the boot. I just took the precaution of saving up!"
With Melvin's last angry word, the illusion fell apart and White lost his mental connection. His horned dulled, his eyes shot open and he panted and gasped for breath.
"Woah, White, are you okay?" asked Sky, giving him a worried glance as his legs collapsed beneath him and he fell to the ground. "Did... did it work?"
Taking a few deep breaths and regaining some of his composure, White shook his head. "No. I... I spoke with Melvin, though. I spoke with him, and he's not happy. He thinks... he thinks I went on this expedition to Dragonia so that I could learn enough to fire him and the other dragons."
"Isn't that the case?" asked Corr, who had just finished listening to Venkra's story and was trotting up to White's side.
"What? No! Of course not! That's absurd!"
"But... sir, from what I gather, you went on your journey because you were dissatisfied with how little you knew about the nature of the magic providing your livelihood, and now you know a good deal more about it. Perhaps enough to not have to rely on dragons anymore."
White looked to his friends for support.
"Mr Correspondence makes a fair point," Sky said, shrugging. "I kinda got the same feeling when you asked me to join the expedition in the first place."
"But I'd never – I mean, I guess..."
White's voice softened and faded away as he contemplated the excited plans he'd been making in his head ever since the Dragon King had taught him how to tap into the dragons' mental network. With a bit of reverse engineering and study, he figured he'd be able to combine the magic behind his psychic powers, the magic of the dragon network, green flame and perhaps the magic behind radio – Sibwashie surely knew somezebra who could help him with that – to automate the dragonfire messaging service. He'd still need dragons to make the fire itself, but the rest might feasibly be taken out of their claws.
"Melvin was right," White said at last. "I was meaning to make their jobs redundant. I just never admitted that to myself. But should I feel bad for trying to make a little progress?"
Nopony had an answer for that, and an awkward silence hung in the air. Eventually, Venkra cleared her throat.
"So, how about that 'curing Melvin of his dragon greed' thing, eh? Surely we've got a few more ideas between the five of us. Uh, White, why not try out those magical healing oranges you were telling me about earlier?"
"That's a good idea, Venkra," White replied, shaking his head free of its troubled thoughts and reaching into his saddlebag to grab one of the two oranges he had left in his telekinesis.
As he did so, a low rumbling was heard from the barrier. All eyes turned to Melvin, who was stirring and twitching in his sleep.
"He's waking up! Brace yourselves, gentlecolts!" shouted the oldest of the unicorns, in a gruff voice that made it apparent that he was in charge.
The great beast that was Melvin growled. It opened its eyes slowly and sluggishly tried to raise itself onto all fours. Its eyes glinted as it jerked its head up.
THUMP. "GRAR!" Melvin roared out in pain as the top of his head connected with the barrier. He slumped back down and rubbed his injured scalp.
"Expand the barrier! He won't be as agitated if he has space to stand!"
With curt nods, the two younger unicorns joined their leader in channelling their magic into expanding the barrier. Its surface rippled as it grew upward.
"Ah, perfect timing," said White, smiling at the orange that floated in front of him as he magically unpeeled it. "Sky, we'll need you to fly up there and toss the orange in his mouth."
Sky flexed her wings, but became hesitant upon looking up at the gigantic blue beast. "What about the barrier?"
"It's one-way!" shouted the leader of the barrier-maintaining unicorns. "You can throw as many things in there as you like, but you won't be able to get them out again!"
Feeling relieved, Sky grabbed the orange in her mouth, being careful not to bite down on it and squeeze its juices out. Her wings flicked out and within seconds she was soaring in front of Melvin, who paid her no mind.
"GHEY GELVGGGIN!" she shouted through the sides of her mouth. "Ggovger gghere!"
Melvin continued to rub his head and stare angrily at the unicorns in charge of his magical prison.
Sky's eyes narrowed and she waved her forehooves about her ears. Still Melvin ignored her. The barrier rippled, and a unicorn quickly shot out a stream of magic to reinforce it.
Hit by a sudden spark of inspiration, Sibwashie whispered a rhyme into the unicorn's ear.
Between Sky and the top of Melvin's enormous scalp, a section of the barrier suddenly collapsed inward.
"RAWR!" Melvin looked up and roared at Sky, who could only smile in response, her teeth free of their projectile.
With a soft zwhoop, the orange phased through the barrier and fell directly into Melvin's roaring mouth. "GRAR?"
"Yes! I got it! He's..."
Melvin didn't appear to even have noticed the orange that had fallen into his enormous mouth. As the seconds ticked by, Sky's elation faded, and her face fell as she descended.
"Nothing," muttered White.
"Well it was worth a shot," said Venkra, shrugging. "Anyone else have another idea?"
Sky thought back to her last encounter with a dragon in the throes of a greed-fuelled madness. "The most obvious solution is to get somepony to be his gafcomp. We need Melvin to give something to somepony."
"But what?" asked White. "He's got nothing to give! We confiscated his hoard while he was sleeping!"
"Without anything to give, Melvin will have to be starved out of his monstrous state," Venkra concluded. "I've heard that if you keep a mad dragon away from all material goods for long enough, he'll revert to his proper frame of mind."
"How long's long enough?"
"It varies, but I believe the shortest time is at least two weeks."
A loud groan sounded from where the unicorns maintaining the shield were standing and was followed by discontented muttering.
"We don't have two weeks!" White said, exasperated. "We can't expect the town to divert traffic and business around Melvin for that long, and we definitely can't expect these guys to keep up their shield spell that long either."
"So the only option is to get Melvin to freely give somepony something," Sky lamented. "Which would require him to have something... and to be willing to give it away."
Venkra chuckled darkly. "Good luck with that second part."
The two ponies and dragon looked at each other hopelessly. Corr and Sibwashie, who had both been watching silently, walked over to them, their faces clouded with thought.
All of a sudden, Corr's eyes lit up. "Wait! I've got it!"
"Yes?" asked Sky and White simultaneously.
"I won't pretend to understand all this dragon business about 'gaf-comps', but if you just need Melvin to give something away... why not use dragonfire?"
White clapped Corr firmly on the shoulder. "That... is a brilliant idea. Somepony fetch me a jar!"
***
Half an hour of set-up and planning later, Sky, White, the shield unicorns and Corr stood in their positions, nervously shifting on their hooves as they readied themselves.
"Let's go over this one more time!" shouted White.
On cue, Sky said, "I'm going to drop this anvil on Melvin's tail, and he's going to jerk upwards in pain..."
"...then we're going to push him down with the barrier," continued the leader of the shield unicorns, "and..."
"...I'll have this jar at ready to catch the flames, and then I'll perform the necessary enchantments and slap a label on it," White finished. "If we're lucky, that'll count as Melvin 'giving' me something."
Sky and the leader of the shield unicorns nodded at White, and the group readied themselves. Sky was already hovering when a stammered cry diverted everypony's attention.
"Wait!" Correspondence grinned sheepishly. "Sir," he said, facing White Noise, "as Melvin's boss, haven't you had him 'give' you dragonfire many times in the past, in exchange for his salary?"
"Of course I have," White replied. "What's that got to do with anything?"
"Well, if I remember correctly, Ms Sky said that Melvin would have to freely give something to a pony for him to be cured. And, if you're his boss, and you're paying him..."
White bit his lip.
Venkra chuckled in delight and leaned down over the proceedings. "I think he has a point. Magic was never my strong suit, but I remember my father would always ramble on about the importance of 'context and precedent', as he called it. White, I think you'd better let him take care of it."
Moments later, everypony stood at ready once more, but it was Corr who hold the empty dragonfire jar between his forehooves, while White stood to one side, his horn primed.
"On the count of three!" announced Venkra. "One!"
Sky's wings flicked out and she tightened her four-hoofed grip on the anvil.
"Two!"
The shield unicorns shifted on their hooves.
"Three!"
Sky lifted the anvil into the air and was above Melvin's tail within moments. The beast seemed unaware of his surroundings and was scratching at the tarmac when he felt a sudden spike of pain.
"RARGH!" he roared, as his head shot up...
...only to impact with the suddenly lowered ceiling of his prison. The jolt shocked a burst of green flame from his snout.
"Yes!" White shouted, igniting his horn.
Corr held the jar in front of his head, wincing as wisps of the strange, cold blast tickled his forelegs and singed some of their hair. The fire didn't hurt him, but sent a shiver down his spine all the same.
With a loud snap, the lid of the jar trapped the fire inside it and was swiftly followed by a label bearing a question mark. Corr set it down on the road and planted a forehoof on top of it, waiting.
For a moment, nothing happened.
"Did it work?" asked Sky, who had collapsed shortly after dropping the anvil.
POP! There was a great whooshing of air as something very large suddenly became something very small, followed by a cry of pain as something very small landed on its rump.
"It... worked," said Corr, already trotting through the barrier to assist his boss and gafcomp.
Melvin sat in the middle of the street, squinting at his blurry surroundings. "Uurgh, my head... what happened?"
"You went insane with greed and grew into an enormous, mindless beast, sir," said Corr, already by Melvin's side and offering him a forelimb. "Don't worry about it though, we managed to snap you out of it and now you should be fine."
"What? I... I..."
Watching the scene from a few metres back, White bit his lip. The little dragon who had seemingly spent his employment defrauding White and ripping off Dragonfire Delivery's customers was tired, dazed and very confused. And sooner or later, he'd be "fired" as well.
A familiar voice snapped White out of his contemplation. "When I heard about the dragon rampage in the middle of Port Welcome, I really should have guessed you guys would have something to do with it."
"Ocean!" said Sky, fluttering over with a big smile on her face.
Ocean Glider grinned and waved a forehoof at her friends. "It's good to see you all again. I take it the... uh" – she motioned towards Venkra – "dragon is with you?"
"Yes, Ms Venkra is our good friend from the far off land of the dragon," Sibwashie began.
"Well, in that case, I'll see to it that somepony rolls out her welcome wagon," Ocean quickly finished. "Now that president Joyous Dawn is in office, the Lunar Republic will truly be a promised land for all creatures."
"Thank you very much in advance," Venkra said playfully, "I'm sure such treatment will bring delight to my features."
Ocean's face clouded for a moment. "I regret that my pleasure at meeting a dragon from Dragonia is not without an ulterior motive, Ms Venkra. I was sent to request your services in a matter of grave importance to the country."
Venkra cocked a scaly eyebrow.
"You see, ma'am," Ocean continued, "the Lunar Republic has been having a 'dragon problem' for a number of months now – many of our farms have been cruelly and repeatedly attacked and had their crops incinerated by the same black-scaled dragon. I've heard that Sibwashie here was able to alleviate it somewhat by teaching the farmponies defensive techniques, but that's only been a temporary solution."
Venkra cocked a second scaly eyebrow.
"Well, to cut a long story short, President Dawn is hoping that you'd grace Golden Harvest Farmstead with your presence tomorrow night, as added security for, um, 'Project Ejection'."
"'Project Ejection'?" asked Sky.
"That's what the president's calling her personal confrontation with the dragon. She's going to persuade him to leave, basically. We're all pretty confident it'll work out, but it never hurts to have a little extra security in case things go awry."
Putting a claw to her chin, Venkra thought for a moment. "Sure, why not?" She shrugged. "My little pony friends told me all about that dragon on the way over here. He sounds like an embarrassment to the species, and I'd be glad to help take him down."
Ocean smiled winningly and dug a map out of her saddlebag, which she gave to White. "Then it's settled! Perfect! I'll see the four of you at Golden Harvest Farmstead at six-thirty tomorrow night. Don't be late!"
"We won't," White replied, feeling the beginning of a queasiness in his stomach. How does this president pony think she's going to talk down a mad dragon?
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Ezn
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997
| 16 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-08-14T18:30:05+00:00
|
2013-01-13T05:11:32+00:00
| 1,844 |
Chapter Sixteen
Joyous Dawn looked into Princess Luna's eyes with a sympathetic, almost mournful expression. "Are you sure you don't want to accompany me today, Princess? I'm quite certain it will be a spectacular event."
"No thank you, President Dawn. We have no great love of dragons, diplomatic strides made in our absence nonwithstanding. We are quite certain that thou hast the capabilities necessary to accomplish what thou desirest. Go with our blessing, but ask us to accompany thee no longer."
Dawn frowned. "Is your Majesty certain?"
"VERY." Luna's voice remained calm and resolute, despite its rise in volume. "We fear we may not be able to act politely in the company of dragons. We fear we may not want to. In times long past, dragons roasted and devoured many of our subjects. That is not a wound easily healed."
"But surely" – Dawn paused – "as the old adage goes, time is the elixir which heals all wounds."
"And I have not had so much time as others." Luna's voice quivered slightly, and Dawn relented.
"I shall see you later, then, Princess Luna. But before we part, I have something else to discuss..."
***
A long shadow spread out from the base of the wrought iron gates leading into Golden Harvest Farmstead, and was soon merged with three other long, pony-shaped shadows, until all four were covered by an enormous, jagged dragon’s shadow.
"So this is the place, huh?" asked Venkra.
"Apparently," replied White. "I wonder how they're so sure the dragon's going to turn up here tonight – it's not like he's known for his co-operative spirit."
"I'd be more interested in how this 'Joyous Dawn' thinks she's going to persuade him to listen to her. I've never known a dragon willing to listen to a pony just because."
"I imagine that's exactly why we've been invited," White said grimly. "Just be on your guard and if we're lucky this won't end too catastrophically."
Venkra affected a look of mock-horror. "Shame on you! I'd expect a little more optimism from one so young."
"Faith in positive outcomes when one knows better
That is the mark of a fool and often a debtor," Sibwashie added.
The three equines entered the farm's entrance archway with little ceremony – that they left to Venkra, who swooped over it and announced her presence with a blast of green fire. A few metres away, a sizable crowd of ponies had already gathered around the platform the president was going to speak from – the entirety of which turned around in shock.
"Calm down, everypony," a familiar voice called over a megaphone. "This dragon's friendly."
Ocean Glider put her megaphone down and jumped off the wooden platform, a wide smile nearly splitting her face in two. She cantered over to her friends excitedly. "So glad you made it! President Dawn is very eager to meet you all."
"Indeed I am."
Ocean Glider swivelled around. "M-Madam President! When did you arrive?"
"Oh, not terribly long ago. I didn't want to make a nuisance of myself while everypony was setting up, so I just slipped in without calling attention to myself. Sometimes it's nice just to observe, don't you think?"
President Joyous Dawn, Sky noticed, looked a fair bit younger than she'd expected, and also a good deal more striking. Her red coat and black mane where both a few shades darker than what was usually natural, and the latter was tied up on her head in a very tight bun. A pair of thin spectacles sat on the end of her nose, and she had a presence.
"Now, Ocean, please introduce me to these friends of yours I've heard so much about."
"Of course, right away."
Joyous Dawn shook hooves with each of Ocean's equine friends, looking each of them directly in the eyes, and lent a hoof to two of Venkra's claws.
"Mr Noise," she said to White. "It's come to my attention that the sole Lunar Republican outlet of your revolutionary business was destroyed in the recent Port Welcome dragon rampage. It's my pleasure to personally inform you that your shop will be fully repaired by the state at no cost, thanks to the fundraising efforts of one Mr Sweep Stake."
"That's great news! Thank you... uh, Madam President!"
Joyous Dawn smiled photogenically. "I'd love to stay and chat a while longer, but we'll be starting soon, so I'd best get going. We must continue this conversation at a later stage."
As the president trotted back to the platform, Ocean grinned and nodded at her friends. "She's inspiring, isn't she? I knew you'd like her!"
All four travellers nodded vigorously and voiced their agreements, but White knew – with a faint ignition of his horn – that the other three had found her just as unsettling as he had. Politicians, he thought.
Before long, Joyous Dawn was poised in front of a lectern, and Venkra was hovering overhead, eyes alert for danger. Dawn used her telekinesis to neaten a stack of papers before placing it on the lectern. She then turned her eyes skyward.
At this, the nervous chatter of the gathered crowd died away into murmurs and then silence. Many of the ponies turned away from their president on the platform and followed her gaze to the early evening sky, scanning it for a long, black reptilian figure.
They were not to be kept waiting.
The keen-eyed and alert Venkra was the first to notice a dark, jagged shadow against the clouds, which she pointed to with a claw, uttering, "Look!"
Swiftly, the black dragon swooped down to the audience awaiting him. Many of assembled ponies gasped as they saw, for the first time, the scourge of their country's farms, and their frightened gasps soon turned to angered grumbles, but never to outright shouted abuse.
Joyous Dawn's strong, stern facial expression remained perfectly in place even as the dragon flapped towards her, its glowing red eyes glaring. Dawn cleared her throat and then began her speech.
"Oh, ancient and powerful dark dragon, how you have brought woe and misery to this land!" she cried, her voice washing over the crowd even as it blasted the dragon. "Look upon the faces of those ponies you have brought ruin to!"
The dragon continued to glare at Dawn instead.
She continued unabated. "Look upon the faces of the hungry and the starving, the poor and the struggling! Know that it comes as a result of your senseless destruction."
"But no! I have been unfair! You did not cause this, noble dragon!" Dawn held a hoof to her forehead dramatically.
Gasps of surprise rose from the crowd.
"You have been bewitched – this needless destruction was not the product of a thinking mind, nor a feeling conscience. Some vicious, malevolent force inhabits your mind, and forces you to wreak destruction against your will. Truly, a more hideous fate has not been conceived of!"
The dragon blinked, and the glow from its eyes appeared to dim slightly.
Meanwhile, White noticed a pair of unicorns – a mare and a stallion, both with coats of different shades of green – at the back of the audience light up their horns faintly, their eyes shifting around as they did so, as if they were afraid of being watched.
When nothing floated in front of either unicorn for more than a minute, White started getting suspicious.
"But fear not, noble beast!" Joyous Dawn boomed, drawing White's attention back to her. "Your salvation is at hoof!"
Admiring gasps rippled through the crowd as they stood transfixed by their leader's theatrics. Her voice boomed loud, clear and sincere, and White could see something wet glistening on the fur below her eyes.
"Using the ancient magical techniques taught to me by Princess Luna herself, I will rid you of your mind's affliction!"
At this, Dawn's horn lit up brilliantly, and she bit her lower lip in an act of exertion. The unicorns White had noticed at the back of the crowd increased the brightness of their horns simultaneously.
White's curiosity was eating away at him. No longer able to resist it, he closed his eyes and lit up his own horn.
Is this mare crazy or something? That dragon's going to burn her up if she tries to use magic on him!
I hope President Dawn knows what she's doing...
Now this is the kind of thing I like to see! Fearlessness like that reminds me why I voted for Dawn in the first place.
A searing pain shot through his head, and he bit back tears. So many thoughts... so many minds... gotta focus...
White cast his perception above the crowd, breathing a soft sigh of relief as their cacophoneous thoughts were reduced to background noise. This high in the air, only one mind was visible.
Kill. Burn. Destroy. Kill. Wait. Wait then kill.
White surmised that this was the dragon's mind and then suddenly realised that he was seeing into a dragon's mind. That shouldn't be possible!
With a dragon as young and unacquainted with his own kind as Melvin, it made sense that no mental barriers had been constructed to block White's interloping, but a dragon who looked to be significantly older than Venkra should not have been susceptible. Even in her madness, Venkra's mental barriers had remained intact.
Maybe this guy's also unfamiliar with dragonkind? White reasoned, still feeling suspicious. Hmm. I wonder what Joyous Dawn is thinking...
White cast his perception downwards, and slightly forward.
Be free. Be free. Escape your mental shackles, great and noble creature! Think, feel, reason!
White felt slightly taken aback. Is she actually doing this? I was certain it was...
Dawn's cutie mark, as White had taken note of earlier, was a telescope overlayed on an hourglass. How does that translate to curse breaking or mental manipulation? White asked himself. He was reminded of Ditzy Doo back in Ponyville, and how cryptic and indirect cutie marks were capable of being. With a dissatisfied huff, he turned his perception back to the dragon's thoughts.
Wait then kill. Wait then burn. Wait then destroy.
Feeling utterly useless and frustrated, White opened his eyes and let his spell fizzle out and die. Dawn's horn was still emitting a blinding light, and the dragon was still hovering in front of her, staring her down his horrible expressionless red eyes.
Until he wasn't.
Dawn groaned with effort and a blast of magic exploded from her horn, washing over the dragon's snout and wiping it of its blank expression. All of a sudden, the dragon roared, gasped and flapped his leathery wings around haphazardly, soon losing altitude and landing unceremoniously on his rump.
Venkra stifled a chuckle.
White glanced at Sibwashie, who looked back with disbelief plastered on his face and then immediately back at the dragon.
The dragon's eyes had lost their red glow, and now looked like the eyes of a normal dragon, bar that they were beset by a sense of confusion and fear uncharacteristic of the race.
With dry lips and a cracking voice, the dragon spoke: "W-where... am I? What happened?"
There was a flash of magic as Joyous Dawn teleported to the dragon's side.
Awed murmurs turned into joyful shouts as the crowd shook off their stupor and approached Dawn and the dragon. Somepony in the middle started saying "Joyous Dawn! Joyous Dawn!" over and over, and soon enough it became a chant.
White scanned the chanting, deliriously happy crowd, but saw no sign of the suspicious unicorns.
"How are you feeling?" Venkra asked the black dragon, who was still blinking his eyes and looking around in a daze.
"Rested," the dragon replied. "It feels like I've just woken up from a quick nap, but I'm certain this isn't one of my usual napping spots."
"You'd be correct in that assumption," Venkra replied. "You're on an island full of ponies, a good long way away from Dragonia."
"No... that's definitely not somewhere I can see myself taking a nap. Thank you, Ms...?"
"Venkra. And it's an odd dragon who uses titles – only my Uncle Kasdar does that. You sure you don't make a habit of napping among ponies?"
The black dragon immediately rose to his hindlegs and puffed out his chest proudly. "The noble and brave Huldor, you will find, is quite unlike most dragons, and not because of where he chooses to rest! I am an explorer, Ms Venkra, so of course I have more refined manners than your average dragon!"
Venkra bit her lip and White's horn glowed involuntarily. Do you have any pony spells to turn him back? I think I liked this guy better when he didn't talk.
"Well then, Mr Huldor, let me be the first to welcome you to The Lunar Republic and wish you a pleasant stay," Joyous Dawn shouted, drawing the two dragons' attention closer to ground level. "As president of this fine nation, I assure you that you can expect nothing but the best from its citizens – and its fantastic weather! I'm sure even the splendid state of some of our natural caves might have you reconsidering your desire not to sleep among ponies!"
"Thank you very much for the warm welcome, Ms 'President'. I think I'm going to have a wonderful stay here, but first, could you shed some light on how I came to be here in the first place? I've never been to an island of ponies before, and my memory's feeling terribly hazy at the moment."
A sudden pain shot through White's temples. Come on, let's get out of here!
Ow! Alright, fine, we can go.
White turned around to slip away, motioning for Sibwashie and Sky to follow him, much to their confusion. Venkra had already flown to the farm's gate and was waiting for them impatiently.
"What was that all about?" White asked, perturbed.
"It's getting late," Venkra said, looking up at the night sky. "We should all get back into town and get some sleep... well, not me, but you ponies."
"How thoughtful!" Sky said.
White cocked an eyebrow. "Yes, how uncharacteristically thoughtful."
Venkra bit her lip for a moment before breaking down. "Look... it's just... I really don't like that Huldor guy. He thinks he's so much better than the rest of us, just because he's 'independent'. As if being a loner is a point of pride or something. Dragons need friends."
Sibwashie nodded and cleared his throat.
"Dragons, zebras, ponies and mules all do, it's how we are made
We have a story of a zebra like Huldor – Tlambo the Black-Sprayed."
"What did Tlambo do, Sib?" asked Sky.
Sibwashie's voice slipped into a familiar groove as he began to tell the tale of Tlambo the Black-Sprayed.
"In the days of the tribes, the zebra Tlambo thought himself better than others
'His arrogance and pride is a pain, his loss would be a gain,' said his brothers.
So they sent him away to meditate in the wilderness and learn to value community
But his journey had great hardships, which he blamed on others, and gave himself immunity.
"The hatred in his heart grew until he cursed all zebras and every civilised race
He painted his white stripes black with sticky tar, each on from his tail to his face.
He drifted from settlement to settlement, stealing scraps and howling
But his infamy grew and soon they all knew to keep him out, faces scowling.
"Tlambo tried to start a farm on his own and grow good food to eat
But that year there was a terrible famine, killing even the grass beside the street.
Tlambo saw the storehouses the tribes had stocked when they had the opportunity
And his heart grew sad and hungry, and he finally understood the value of community.
"Tlambo entered the tribe a beggar and tried to plead for food,
He had forgotten how to rhyme, and everyzebra thought him rude.
But they took pity on the poor fool and nourished him until his ribs no longer showed
For this he was grateful, and forever mindful of the debt to society he owed.
"One zebra is not a tribe, for one zebra can be starved by a drought
A tribe thinks, a tribe works and a tribe will see every storm out."
***
White couldn't sleep. For the first time since he'd first used his telepathic powers, he'd been having weird, disturbing dreams that kept shocking him awake. Eventually he gave up trying to get to sleep and just lay in bed, eyes open and staring at the ceiling.
He'd heard a voice whispering to him in his dreams, but it wasn't a very whispery sort of voice. Instead, it sounded like a low rasp, and whispered brief, unintelligible things that sounded almost like words, but not quite. It reminded him of the simplistic and repetitive voice he'd encountered in the black dragon's thoughts. Maybe he's unaware of his powers, like I was. He is an 'independent dragon', after all.
White remembered breakfasts with Sky and Sibwashie, when they would speak groggily of the dreams that had been keeping them up at night, and suddenly he felt a sense of kinship with Huldor the black dragon. What if I could teach him to use his powers, like the Dragon King did with me?
Perking up at this bright idea, White closed his eyes and focused his magic. His horn glowed and he slowly expanded his field of view, passing over sleeping and dreaming minds until he found the one he was looking for.
Fly over water. Dig up dirt. Eat shiny food. Find cave.
Shame, thought White. For all his grand speech, this guy's not all too bright. But maybe I can help with that.
White quickly prepared a thought, and then shot it through. There is a teacher who would like to help you, Mister Huldor. I am that teacher. With your permission, I can teach you to use your natural telepathy.
Who you?
My name is White Noise. I am a student of the Dragon King.
You come. Come to me. I want learn.
Well, actually I don't need to go to you; I can teach you without physically being in your presence.
No! I want to see you. Come. Find me.
Alright, if you insist. I'll come find you. Stay where you are.
White's horn dimmed and he wrinkled his snout. Shrugging, he shucked off his blankets and hopped out of bed.
As far as White was able to tell, Haldor was across the street, in what looked like a large warehouse. It struck him as odd that a dragon would choose a warehouse to sleep in over a cave, but a quick glance at Venkra – who was curled up on the roof of the inn he'd been staying in – put the question to rest. Dragons are weird.
The warehouse was built like a barn, and its street-facing wall was dominated by a large set of double-doors. They were locked, but White soon found smaller door to the right that wasn't and quietly slipped inside.
It was dark inside the warehouse. White called out for Huldor, but received no answer. Maybe he's asleep, or shy?
A glow from White's horn lit up his corner of the large room, and he slowly made his way into the centre, scanning for a large, black silhouette. "Hello? Huldor? I'm here. I've come to teach you."
There was a quiet sound of scuffling and muttering behind White, and he turned around. "Huldor? Is that you?"
Someone chuckled. "Sort of."
Before White could determine who the voice belonged to, something hit him on the back of the head. His legs gave way and he felt himself crash onto the ground. The chuckling returned, and then was silent.
***
White's eyes fluttered open and he blinked in the dim lamplight.
"Are you quite alright, sir?" a voice asked.
"Yeah, I think... ow, my head."
"Just lie down."
A damp, cold cloth pressed against White's forehead, to the right of his horn. His eyes focused and refocused. The cloth was being held in place by a yellow hoof.
"Who..." he began.
"My name's Barley, sir," said the voice. "I found you knocked out outside the warehouse next door. It's very lucky for you that I was working late. You might have – oh, Madam President!"
White's winced at Barley's sudden exclamation. Wouldn't it be funny if...
"Good evening, Barley. Oh, and hello to you to, Mr Noise."
A door shut quietly and a set of hooves clopping against the floor at a brisk pace. President Joyous Dawn soon stepped into White's vision, looking as immaculate and keenly attentive as ever.
"May I ask what happened to your head, Mr Noise?"
"I'm... not sure."
"I found him lying in the alley outside that abandoned warehouse next door, Madam President," Barley chirped. "Do you know him?"
"We met earlier this evening. Barley, the gentlecolt you're rubbing ice on is Mr White Noise, the founder of Dragonfire Delivery."
"Oh! Well, it is a pleasure to meet you, sir!" Barley thought for a moment before adding, "Although perhaps it might have been more of a pleasure in different circumstances. Oh well! How's your head feeling?"
"Much better, thank you." White was already standing up as he said this, eager to get back to the hotel. An odd sense of dread was building in his throat.
"Wait..." Joyous Dawn said, in a voice that was soft and airy, but just loud enough to give White pause.
"Since you're here anyway, there's something I've been wanting to discuss with you."
"It... can't wait till morning?"
"Well, it could, but time is money for busy and enterprising individuals like us. That, and it's related to bringing whoever attacked you to justice."
Barley gasped. "You think he was attacked?!"
"Ponies don't just fall unconscious right outside abandoned buildings by themselves, Barley."
White glanced at Dawn and Barley. He wanted to leave, to get back into his warm bed and go to sleep and forget all about this, but there was something very firm and commanding in Dawn's tone. It can't be wise to snub the president.
"Alright, I'll listen to what you have to tell me," he said.
"Wonderful!" replied Dawn. "Let's go up to my office – we can talk undisturbed there."
Wordlessly, White followed Dawn up the stairs. He hadn't had much experience dealing with politicians, let alone the odd kind of politicians in the Lunar Republic. Though he wouldn't say it around Ocean Glider, there was something about these "presidents" that seemed almost heretical – like they, mere mortals, thought they could do the job of the Princesses.
Joyous Dawn's office was very clean, and the desk had been pushed against the wall to make a large, empty space in the middle of the room. A thick Sheepersian rug covered much of the carpet.
"Please, take a seat," Dawn said, motioning to the rug. "I find that desks imply a certain power relationship that works counter to the kind of dynamic I like meetings to have. We shall both sit on the rug and discuss matters as adults and equals. I believe, Mr Noise, that we can help each other out."
White bit his lip and silently wished he was back in bed. Still, he sat down on one side of the rug, and Dawn took the other.
"Now, White – may I call you White; you may call me Joy – let's get straight down to business. You were attacked earlier, and I'm reasonably certain I know who by."
"Yes?"
"The hungry, White. When a pony gets hungry enough, she goes a little crazy and starts causing trouble. Because of the drought in Zebrica and the dragon attacks here, there's not as much food in the Lunar Republic as there should be."
"Oh. Okay, sure." White wasn't really sure.
Dawn closed her eyes for a moment. "Now... this ties in to the original reason I wanted to see you, White. Had you not appeared in my lobby this evening, I would have sought you out tomorrow morning, for I am in need of your help."
"What for?"
"Very to-the-point! I like that! However, I'm afraid this particular matter isn't one that I can be to-the-point about. To understand what I require of you, I must first tell you a little story. I take it you've heard the legend of Princess Luna's gift to the Lunar Republic?"
"I have, yes."
"Good, good. What most don't know is that it has a second part..."
White's ears perked up with interest for the first time since he'd sat down on the rug.
"It begins with a meteor shower..."
«-oOo-»
In the fifteenth year following Princess Luna's banishment, a great and beautiful meteor shower was seen from Trough, a small farming village not too far from Equestria's eastern shore. Many wishes were made on those falling stars that evening, one of which had a particular significance.
A unicorn filly of a poor family – destitute Lunar sympathisers in hiding – wished for falling star of her own, to cast a light over her bed and keep the monsters away while she slept. Moments after her wish was made, there was a flash outside her window and a soft pock in the dirt.
She immediately ran outside to investigate, and lo and behold, there in the dirt outside her window lay a smoking meteor.
Because the rock was far too hot to pick up with her hooves and she had not yet learnt how to use magic, she left the rock where it lay and went back inside. She could hardly sleep all night, so excited she was.
The little filly was woken up early the next morning by a shrill cry of surprise from outside her window. It sounded like her mother's voice.
"What's wrong, Mommy?" she asked, poking her head out of the window.
"Oh darling, there's an enormous beanstalk that wasn't here yesterday," her mother replied, very flustered.
And indeed, she had good reason to be flustered, for the little filly turned her head and saw a thick, green beanstalk that reached far into the heavens. As she gaped at the sight, it occurred to her that the stalk had grown right where her fallen star had landed.
The little girl's parents had no love for beans, or for any sorts of uninvited plants on their property. Following a speedy breakfast, the father sharpened his axe and swiftly chopped the stalk down, removing its roots as well. His daughter sat quietly by and watched him work.
As the roots came up, pulled by the father's telekinesis, a delighted yelp burst from the little girl's mouth. "My star, my star!" she sang. "My star grew the stalk!"
Her father looked down at the rocky surface that had been beneath the stalk and was puzzled. He didn't know much about agriculture, but he did know that plants weren't supposed to grow out of rocks. Especially not monstrous beanstalks.
He ushered his daughter inside and brought the matter to his wife, who knew as little about agriculture as he did. For a good five minutes, they were stumped, but then they realised it must have been a question of magic, not farming, which they knew a good deal more about.
They discussed growing magic, teleportation, illusion and many other subjects, until the wife recalled a feat that their revered but ill-fated Princess Luna had once performed on an island not far from Equestria.
"Could it be that our Lady has blessed us with a fragment of her moon?" the wife hypothesised.
Her husband became very excited at this and rushed outside to take another look at the magical rock. Grass was already sprouting on it, but enough of its surface was visible for him to imagine it being a part of the moon. His wife soon joined him, and she agreed.
From that day forth, the family's luck changed. The magic of the rock allowed them to grow any fruit or crop they could want in abundance, and they used this for all kinds of incredibly successful business ventures, and to ensure they never went hungry. Within a generation, they had become the wealthiest family in Trough, and they prospered for a thousand years.
«-oOo-»
"I am the latest of that line – the Rockefillies, as they're sometimes called – and about a year ago, when I found out about the lunar magic at work in this country's farmlands, I realised that there was finally a way I could share that prosperity with the world. That's why I moved here and went into politics, you see," Dawn concluded.
"Well, that's a nice story," White replied, slightly confused. "I just can't see why exactly you need my help. Do you want to collaborate with Dragonfire Delivery somehow? I'd advise against trying to send moonrock via dragonfire – it'd be a fantastic way to destroy a precious family heirloom and little else."
Dawn threw her head back and laughed. "Ha ha, oh that is very funny, White! A tiny little moonrock is hardly enough to really share with the world, even with your astounding technology."
"I don't follow." White made a blank face.
Dawn's horn glowed and she pushed her spectacles up her nose. "I'm going to need the service of another of your many talents, Mr Noise."
"I... still don't..." A heavy feeling choked the rest of the words before they could escape White's throat. There was something about the expression on Dawn's face, the tone in her voice, the way she was slowly leaning towards him... something that made him terribly uneasy.
"I know what you can do," she whispered, now close enough to him that her snout tickled the rim of his ear. "It's my business to know ponies, and I have a power that helps me."
Dawn withdrew, even more slowly than she'd approached.
"Your friend Sky Wave's special talent is beautiful flying. Yours is communication magic. You're capable of standard unicorn telekinesis, altering the volume and pitch of your voice, magical severance, various hacks... and a particularly powerful brand of telepathy."
White watched Dawn's smile growing as he imagined his own jaw was dropping.
"I need that last one for a special project of mine. An important project that will change the world and progress pony civilisation like nothing else before. You like progress, don't you?"
Dawn's horn sparked, and a bell sounded. "I need you not to be alarmed at what you're about to see, White. It's something that would frighten and disturb the average pony on the street, but as a unicorn of science, as a magical scholar, I appeal to you to see it for what it represents to the future."
A shiver ran down White's spine, and his tail flicked involuntarily. He turned to face the office door.
Slowly, the door creaked open, and a unicorn entered. His horn was glowing, and there was something startlingly familiar about his face and colouring. Another unicorn entered shortly after him, and she too had a glowing horn and a quality of elusive familiarity about her.
They're the unicorns from the farm! White suddenly realised.
After the two unicorns had fully entered the room, a third unicorn followed them, walking stiffly and staring blankly forward. But she wasn't a unicorn – a pair of wings jutted out from her back.
It was Princess Luna. And there was a gag tied firmly around her muzzle.
|
Ezn
|
997
| 17 |
Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
|
Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
|
complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-08-15T16:40:22+00:00
|
2013-01-13T05:14:08+00:00
| 2,061 |
Chapter Seventeen
"I tried to reason with her, I really did," Dawn said, her voice taking on a remorseful, pleading tone. "I painted her a beautiful picture of what the world could be like, what ponies could achieve, all with just a tiny sacrifice on her part, and hardly even that."
White had risen to his hooves and stood open-mouthed, staring at the statue-still Princess Luna with her blank eyes and the dirty gag tied around her mouth, as if she were some common criminal.
"She became loud and hostile," Dawn continued. "I was worried for my safety. I had to have her restrained. And then, once I had that... well, once I had Princess Luna gagged and held against her will I couldn't very well release her!"
"W-When did you do this?" White asked breathlessly, feeling like he was going to be sick.
"Right before the confrontation with Huldor at the farm. She was very stubborn about not wanting to attend that as well. Poor Princess Luna, still stuck in the prejudices and fears of a thousand years ago."
White could have struck her for that comment, but it seemed an unwise action in the middle of her office, with her two powerful accomplices on either side of him.
"How are they restraining her?" White asked, his scientific curiosity momentarily trumping his horror.
"They're using a technique similar to your telepathy, actually," Dawn replied, pointing towards the unicorns' identical marionette rod cutie marks. "They can use it to make her walk" – Luna took an awkward step forward – "whinny" – a muffled noise came from behind the gag – "and sit down" – Luna slowly, jerkily lowered herself to her haunches – "but not much more than that."
Dawn took a step closer to Luna and looked down at her sympathetically. "This is the first time they've used it on a pony, to the best of my knowledge."
"Yeah," Trapper said gruffly. "These stunts are too risky. It's too obvious she's not moving under her own will."
"And a Princess!" Tamer added. "Even with both of us controlling her I'm getting a headache!"
"I helped these two out of tight legal spot some years ago, back when they were only using their abilities to control animals. Their telepathy works by overriding the mind's control of the body and creating a temporary, very basic mind in its place – which is fine for a hydra, or a manticore, or possibly an earth pony, but it doesn't allow for control of a unicorn's horn. Incidentally, that's why I need you."
White saw Dawn's glasses flash, and he stumbled backwards. "You – you can't possibly expect me to..."
"You are the only one for the job, White. You can reach into Princess Luna's mind and make her use her magic to cut a small, inconsequential, no-bigger-than-this-island slab of rock off the moon and bring it down here, where it can be of some use."
She's insane, thought White. Totally insane.
"I know what that look means, White. I've seen it before, on many other faces. But you – you're more like me than you know. We both want the same thing."
White blinked. I have to save Princess Luna somehow. He considered trying to get into her mind to free her from Trapper and Tamer's spell, but feared what they might do if they saw his horn light up. Both of them had their serious, menacing eyes trained on him.
"We both want progress."
Progress. White supposed that was true, after a fashion. He wanted to revolutionise the way ponies communicated with each other, and that was certainly progress. But he'd never have cut up the moon. That's just crazy!
"And before you tell me that what you're doing is all positive and doesn't hurt anypony, think for a moment about the Equestrian Postal Service. You don't think all that retrenchment was just about affirmative action, do you? They feel threatened by your advances." Dawn stared down her spectacles at White. "Progress has a cost, Mr Noise."
A lump was forming in White's throat, but his face betrayed no hint of it. Gotta figure something out!
"Even your own employees are at risk because of your dedication to progress. I'm sure that whatever you've learnt on your travels will lead to kind of strides in dragonfire technology that eliminate the rare and troublesome dragon himself."
The image of a giant blue dragon roaring in the middle of a city street flashed behind White's eyelids. He saw the sad faces of his more trustworthy employees – of Spaug, Turquoise, and dear old Smooth Scales in Canterlot – faces they made as they twisted pink slips of paper between their claws.
"I don't blame you, White," Dawn said, her eyes going wide with sympathy and quivering a bit at the edges. "You understand the need for progress, and the sacrifices those living today must make for the betterment of those who will be born tomorrow. You get it, White Noise, and that's why you must help me."
Dawn removed her glasses, and the dark lines under her eyes became more apparent. White noticed stray hairs coming loose from her bun, and her lips twisted upwards in a genuine, hopeful smile.
"You must help me. If I fail, there will be chaos and political unrest. Rioting in the streets, souring of alliances, all kinds of evil. Princess Luna will have suffered for nothing. But if I succeed... everything will be better than ever."
Dawn was on the edge of tears, and Trapper and Tamer stood transfixed by her words, their horns glowing as a mere afterthought. White saw his chance.
A faint blue glow was lost in the lamplight. White saw four minds. He honed in on the one being bombarded by green waves of thought from two of the others.
Sit. Sit still. Do nothing.
Princess Luna! Your Highness, can you hear me?!
Now White knew why the Dragon King had been unable to reach Huldor's mind. White barrelled through layer after layer of the same, single-verb commands. Luna's mind was buried deep, but he could find it. It would just take time.
"Hey! What are you doing?!"
White's concentration collapsed. The layers closed up. He lost contact, and then he felt a weight on the back of his head.
For the second time in as many hours, White Noise lost consciousness.
***
"Sky! Sibwashie! Over here, guys!" called the cheery voice of Ocean Glider, shouting from the other side of the street.
"Oh, hey Ocean!" Sky replied, her face brightening as she flew across the street and alighted on the pavement. "Say, you haven't seen White around, have you?"
"That's actually what I came to talk with you about," Ocean said, nodding to Sibwashie as he trotted up to her and Sky. "President Dawn told me that she had a business meeting with him early this morning."
Sky smirked. "White Noise, going to an early morning meeting? I'm not sure he knows what the early morning is."
"Well, that's President Dawn for you – inspiring change in the world around her. Anyway, I wanted to say that she'd like to invite you guys to a brunch with her and White, seeing as she's already taken up so much of his time. You haven't made travel arrangements or anything yet, have you?"
"No, no, of course not. We were hoping to travel on the Moonchaser, now that you bring up the subject."
"That's great! I'm pretty busy with my government job these days, so I wouldn't be able to accompany you, but my boat's still sailing between Anchor and Welcome on a regular schedule."
"We're glad to hear it, and brunch sounds fantastic!"
Sibwashie nodded his agreement. He hadn't even eaten breakfast yet.
Ocean, Sky and Sibwashie chatted lightly as they took the short walk to the Port Welcome's governmental office building, which was on the opposite side of the street from the hotel they were staying at.
"They're in the President's office at the moment," Ocean said as she stepped through the door ahead of her companions, waving at the yellow pegasus behind the reception desk. "Let's just go up there now and surprise them! I'm sure President Dawn won't mind."
***
White rubbed a hoof over the bump on the back of his head as he woke up. His neck and back were stiff, as if he'd been sleeping on the floor all night. A glance at the rug beneath him confirmed that this actually was the case.
"Good morning, White Noise!" came the chipper voice of President Joyous Dawn, who stood before his half-closed eyes with her head held high and her mane perfectly styled. "I've got a surprise for you this lovely day... an inspiring surprise!"
Groggily, White raised himself onto his hooves. He scowled at Dawn, but felt too tired and confused to do much else. There's something about waking up in front of a thoroughly awake pony that makes you just know you're inferior, he thought.
"Now, White Noise, I hope you remember the generous proposition I made to you last night – the one where I offered you the chance to play a key role in the technological advancement that will redefine how ponies live in this world."
White groaned, partially from fatigue.
"I do hope you've reconsidered."
Before White had time to reply that he hadn't, Dawn continued. "However, it is unwise for somepony with particular ambitions to put too much stock in the whims of others. I have come too far to back out of this now."
There was a knock on the door. Dawn's horn glowed for a fraction of a second, and then she said, "Come in!"
The door opened. Sibwashie and Sky's smiling faces were on the other side. White's eyes widened in terror. He opened his mouth to scream a warning at them.
A filing cabinet burst open and the room was flooded by an eerie green light. Sky and Sibwashie's faces dropped, and they marched into the room on stiff legs. White rushed forward, forehooves outstretched, to push them back, as if getting out of the room would save them.
White's hooves hit made contact with Sibwashie. There was a surprised yelp as door glowed green and slammed. White felt a pressure in his gut. The pressure increased, and Sibwashie's hefty right forehoof sent him flying backwards.
"Aah!" White's back hit the edge of the desk against the wall and he slumped down into a limp heap.
"Make another move and I'll have Stripey throw you out the window," Trapper said, growling. "And if I see that horn of yours light up again I'll make you jump."
White whimpered, and Dawn pushed her glasses up her snout and continued speaking, as if nothing had happened. "The fate of your friends rests on you doing the right thing, White Noise. Help me in the name of progress, and I promise that no-one shall harm them. Refuse, and the ponies of the future won't be the only ones to lose something."
Tears were forming in White's eyes, and he couldn't tell if they were from pain or stress. "You're a monster. How can you do things like this and act like you're in the right?"
"How can you spend so much time and money looking for more creative ways to fire your employees? These are the questions that a narrow-minded individual might ask of one who can see the big picture. Now come, we have much to prepare for tonight."
***
Sibwashie ran an idle forehoof across the cold steel bars of the cage, making a slow clicking sound.
"Stop that!" shouted Tamer, lighting her horn momentarily. "I'll make you do that with your face if you're not careful!"
Sibwashie sighed. He, White and Sky were trapped in an iron cage in the basement of an observatory President Dawn had had closed for the day. While she set up telescopes and decorated rooms, they could only wait, with no hope of escape. White thought of sending a message to Venkra, but feared what might happen to him if Trapper or Tamer saw his horn glow.
"Maybe the Elements of Harmony'll save us," Sky mused. "Aren't they from around here?"
White cocked an eyebrow. "I heard they lived in Buckingshire."
"You're both wrong," Tamer sneered. "The Bearers of the Elements of Harmony live in Ponyville, and they're a little busy taking care of a pest problem – an invasion of small-minded animals, you might say."
Sky held a hoof to her mouth. "You're responsible for that?"
"Naturally," Tamer replied proudly. "Trapper and I did some very fine work in the Everfree. Lasting, too, seeing as animal minds aren't so quick to destroy our overrides as you ponies."
"What about dragons?" asked White.
Tamer scoffed. "Oh, they're pretty much animals. The spell we put on that Huldor guy stuck and held fast – was a darn shame just dismantling it like that."
White felt a little sick and decided against continuing any conversation with her. He turned to his companions, who offered him sympathetic looks and shrugs.
"I'm gonna miss the moon," said Sky, "or at least I'll miss part of it. Won't it look odd, just hanging in the air with a chunk cut out? Won't that mess up the tides or something?"
White rolled his eyes. "Don't be silly, Sky, everypony knows that's controlled by seaponies."
"Seaponies?" A light came over Tamer's face, and she took a step closer to the edge of the cage. "Did you say 'seaponies'? Are they real, then?"
"Oh, most definitely," White replied, his facial expression deadly serious. "And, from one unicorn with mind-control powers to another, they're pretty weak-willed."
Tamer chuckled. "Wait, you think your dinky little power is mind-control? You think it compares with my skillset?"
"Well" – White gave his friends a sidelong glance – "your boss certainly went to a lot of trouble to enlist my dinky little power to set her master plan into action and, you know, radically change the world."
Tamer grunted. "She's just hedging her bets. Right now, Trapper's busy working on a way to get our powers to manipulate Princess Luna's horn, and if he finishes by tonight, I really don't think President Dawn's going to need any of you."
"That's not going to happen, and we both know it," White replied. "You can't even make ponies walk properly."
Tamer's horn flared into action. "I'll make you walk properly, you little–"
But it was too late. White had already cast his most powerful spell and planted an idea in her mind. The angry expression on Tamer's face dropped and her horn dimmed.
"Actually," she began, suddenly speaking with a much more even tone, "I don't know why I'm doing all this. President Dawn doesn't want money, she just wants ponies to like her. She'll probably give all the food she grows instantly away for free, and pay me and Trapper a pittance."
There was a click and the padlock on the door of the cage opened. Tamer used her telekinesis to swing the door open, and beckoned for her prisoners to come out.
"It'd make much more sense to stop Dawn and turn Princess Luna in for the reward money Celestia's no-doubt gonna start offering once she gets wind of this."
White and Sibwashie tentatively stepped out of the cage, Sky following them at a slightly slower pace.
"What did you do?" she whispered.
"Alright," decided Tamer. "You're gonna help me and Trapper take out Dawn. Let's go."
"Great," White said, casting a confident grin back at Sibwashie and Sky.
Tamer opened the door with a flash of her horn. Her husband and President Dawn stood on the other side. Three mouths fell open in shock.
"Ah!" Tamer gasped, putting a forehoof to her temples. Sparks flew from her horn.
"I'm glad to see you're all ready," President Dawn said. "It's about time to go."
"I'd say it is," said White, menacingly. His horn blazed for just a moment, and then he dropped into a fighting stance.
Sky leaped into the air and dived at Tamer with her back legs. A well-placed kick sent her tumbling into Trapper, and the two collapsed against the wall opposite the door.
"Go! Go!" White shouted, narrowing his eyes at President Dawn, who looked remarkably unfazed.
"All the doors are magically sealed," she said nonchalantly. "What's more, I poisoned your meals."
The three stopped. White remembered the bales of dirty hay they'd been given an hour or so before. He hadn't wanted himself or his friends to eat them, but they were all terribly hungry and had caved.
Trapper and Tamer picked themselves up and laughed at Sky, who could scarcely look up from the floor. She, Sibwashie and White were soon marched away from the prison room.
"I'm surprised at you," Tamer whispered in White's ear, startling him. "That was a clever little mind-control trick you pulled. I'll admit you had me going for a bit. If that business of yours doesn't work out, Trapper and I would be delighted to take you in..."
White shivered. He felt like he was going to be sick.
"Save your lunch for after you force the sovereign ruler of the night to mutilate her moon," Tamer jeered.
***
The telescope had been removed from its usual place in the observatory, and now there was a large gap in the ceiling, showing the last orange-and-red strands of the sunset. President Joyous Dawn stood on a raised platform, looking out at the rapidly falling night.
"Bring out the Princess," she commanded. "It is time to raise the moon."
White, Sky and Sibwashie stood to one side of Dawn, their hindhooves chained to a fence around the platform. Their expressions were stoic, but each one of them was a nervous bundle of stress and fear on the inside.
"D-During all the confusion," White whispered, "I sent a message to Venkra. If we can stall this moon thing for long enough, maybe she'll get here in time to save us."
Sky and Sibwashie both nodded almost imperceptibly, saying nothing.
An irregular clopping and clanging echoed across the empty room as Tamer and Trapper walked on either side of a shambling, chained and muzzled Princess Luna. Her eyes stared straight ahead, unblinking, and she slowly, awkwardly ascended the ramp onto the platform and came to a standstill beside President Dawn.
Trapper and Tamer cut their magic. The Princess collapsed.
"Rise, your Highness," Dawn commanded. "It is time to raise the moon, and then it will be time to make history."
"Yeah, get up!" Trapper yelled. "I don't think you want a repeat of last time."
"Never..." Luna croaked. Her starry mane was limp and she barely had enough strength to stand. It was all that either Sky or White could do to resist their patriotic impulses to rush to her side.
"Oh, I know your stance on my wonderful plan, Princess," Dawn replied. "I won't make you bring me a piece of the moon yourself. I've got another pony for the job. White Noise!"
White cringed at hearing his name. He felt the large, sad eyes of his Princess, and could not meet her gaze. He wanted to disappear.
"Mr Noise, I don't have time for stalling, so I'm going to tell you something I wasn't planning to reveal. I didn't poison your food. Only your friends'."
The room was silent.
"To clarify," Dawn said, in the tone of a particularly bored schoolteacher, "if you don't get into the Princess's mind right now and do what I ask, you will have the singular pleasure of watching them expire, and knowing that it was all your fault."
White gulped.
"Come on, Mr Noise. It's time to make a New Lunar Republic, and with it, a new world."
Sibwashie cleared his throat. In a calm, clear voice, he started to speak in his usual rhyming pattern.
"Joyous Dawn, how far are you going to take this crusade?
Will you murder two ponies? Do think that guilt will fade?"
Dawn sneered. "I do what I have to, Mister Sibwashie. I have an important part to play in the future of ponykind, and if you die, it will be Mr Noise's fault, not mine. You need to rhyme, I need to give everyone in the world all the food they will ever need."
A groan sounded from where Princess Luna lay on the floor. "Compare NOT the SACRED TRADITIONS of OUR ZEBRA FRIENDS with YOUR BLASPHEMY! He rhymes even as his life ebbs away as a courtesy to thee, even though thou deservest none of it! Destroying our moon will bring only pain and–"
Trapper's horn glowed and Luna bashed her own head against the floor. "How's that for bringing pain?"
"Enough of this!" shouted Dawn. "I'm right, you're wrong, and White Noise will fulfill his destiny right NOW!"
Sibwashie remained stoic and stood firm.
"If your purpose is pure, necessary and destined to be
Rhyme of its beauty and meaning, as a last courtesy to me."
Dawn opened her mouth to yell, but stopped before the words left her throat. "Alright, fine," she said. "I will rhyme about it, and you'll see that this is supposed to happen. Ahem!
"There once was famine and drought in Zebrica
And Joy fixed it 'cause she's the bestica!"
Sibwashie raised a sarcastic eyebrow, and Sky stifled a giggle.
Dawn glared at them. "Not good enough for you? Well, try this one!"
With that, she puffed out her chest, lifted her head high, took a deep breath, and punched herself across the muzzle with her left forehoof. Her glasses flew off and shattered somewhere below the platform.
"That's enough poetry for one day, I think," said Tamer, as Dawn hit herself with her other forehoof. "To be quite honest, I'm getting a little sick of her voice. Aren't you?"
A deft right hook sent Dawn sprawling on the ground, moaning in agony. Trapper gave her a swift kick in the midsection before stepping up to stand next to his wife and glare at the surprised prisoners.
"Alright, everypony, here's how things are gonna work from here on out," he started. "There's been a little change of management, but your roles will all stay the same. Stripes and the Bird are gonna sit down and shut up, and Fancyhorn's gonna make with the mindcontrol. Let's get that chunk of moonrock down here and start making some money."
White's blood ran cold. There would be no stalling or reasoning with hardened criminals like these two, and he had no doubt they'd kill him and his friends without a second thought if provoked. They didn't have the same investment in his wellbeing as Dawn did.
With nowhere else to turn, White lowered his head and lit up his horn.
"If either of us get any funny thoughts in our head, it's over for you, so don't even try it," said Tamer. And indeed, a glance at their minds showed them to be producing a torrent of jeers and threats directed at him.
Sibwashie and Sky's minds showed only fear. Princess Luna's mind...
Hello, Princess Luna. It's me, White Noise.
Can you really do it? Can you take control of my horn and make me slice up my own mind?
I'm afraid it's likely. All it would take is the thought of one of Joyous Dawn's utterly sincere, totally convinced speeches about the beauty of the new world she's crafting. I put that into your mind without marking it as a message from me, and you'll think you thought it, at least for long enough for you to cast the necessary spell.
So you're capable of just... changing anyone's mind?
Not anyone's. Dragons are trained to keep out foreign thoughts that don't identify themselves as messages. They gave me the same training, and your sister has it too.
Dragons. Perhaps if I'd been more open to them...
In the outside world, White's ears pricked up to a faint, leathery beating of wings.
Perhaps you'll have a chance to do just that, Princess Luna. I'm not about to betray my country or my Princess. Do you know a spell that can break chains?
Of course I do, but I am weak.
Then I will give you strength.
At that moment, White left Luna's mind, and focused on her horn. But he cast a very different, and much simpler spell on it. A stream of wispy, cyan light funnelled out of his horn and into Luna's.
"He's doing it!" cried Tamer. "He's doing it, honey! We're going to be rich!"
But White wasn't. The stream of magic cut off, and Luna's own horn lit up. With a sound very much unlike the splitting of stone miles and miles above their heads, six ankle-clamps released, and three equines kicked them away.
A column of scorching orange flame shot in through the hole in the ceiling, and Tamer screamed as a purple dragon descended on her.
"Get him!" came a shout, and a flurry of hooves kicked Trapper to the ground.
Tamer's horn blazed at the dragon on top of her, but she could not penetrate Venkra's mental shielding. I can't do it! she thought. I can't do it and I'm an idiot and dragons are so great especially this one!
Before long, Trapper and Tamer were bound by the same chains that had held their prisoners, but the chains were tangled around them in addition to being clamped on their ankles, completely immobilising them. Just to be safe, Sibwashie knocked them both out with a firm right forehoof.
The dust settled. Sky, Sibwashie and White looked at each other's bruised and battered faces, and smiled with tears in their eyes.
"Do not forget about the POISON, my SUBJECTS!" exclaimed Princess Luna, who had drawn herself up to her full stature and was looking slightly regal again.
"That's okay," White replied, "we'll just take the antidote from – hey! Where'd Dawn go?"
"We have to find her!" Sky said. "She – the Princess – the moon – the antidote!"
"Hold your horses, ponies," Venkra said, chuckling and holding out a closed hand. "Luckily for you, I had the presence of mind to bring those oranges along. I know they didn't work for Melvin, but I'm sure–"
Sibwashie and Sky had already snatched the oranges out of her claws and chomped them up.
"Careful! You'll get indigestion!"
"We still need to find Dawn," Sky repeated, juice dribbling from her muzzle. "She's kind of evil."
***
Panting and grimacing, Joyous Dawn dragged herself down the hallway on hobbling limbs. Her snout twitched in the absense of her glasses, and bits of her mane fell about her face.
"That's the last time I give – hrrk – legal consul to anypony facing animal cruelty charges," she muttered. "Now I'm going to have to – nngh – start all over again."
Just then, Dawn sensed a familiar presence. Her horn flashed dangerously.
***
With a mighty buck, Ocean Glider kicked a splintery hole in the wooden door to the observatory. She dashed inside, heart racing. Dawn's going to answer for this, she thought.
Ocean remembered bringing Sky and Sibwashie up to the President's office. She remembered pushing the door open for them, and she remembered the desperate look on White Noise's face as he stared mournfully at them.
Sky and Sibwashie had marched into the room on stiff, unnatural limbs, and President Dawn had slammed the door in her face. She had cried out, and then been kindly escorted out of the building and told to go home and get some rest by Barley. The President was giving her the rest of the day off, the President valued her work, the President was thinking of promoting her soon... and so it went.
Ocean hadn't bought it. She'd seen White's face.
"Where are you, Joy?!" she shouted into the observatory. "I know you're in here, and I know what you're up to! Barley told me everything!"
There was no reply.
"I believed in you, Joy! I still do! Please tell me this is all a big joke! This isn't you, President Dawn! This– hrrk!"
Ocean sputtered and choked as a thick wooden staff pushed itself against her neck. As she gasped for air, something warm and fuzzy pressed up against her flank, and the staff relaxed slightly.
"You're right, Ocean," said a soothing, honest voice. "This isn't me. I don't want to do this, but I have no choice. Now, let's take a walk, and we'll get things all cleared up."
Fear pierced Ocean's chest, and she complied. The two ponies walked awkwardly back the way Dawn had come.
***
"She won't get far," White reassured Sky. "Trapper and Tamer here were pretty rough with her."
"I'll fly up and see if she's left the building yet," said Venkra, already extending her wings.
"Good idea, but be quick."
Venkra saluted gravely before flying back out of the gap in the room's domed ceiling. In her absence, the three travellers were reminded of the striking presence of Princess Luna.
"Are you okay, Princess Luna?" asked Sky.
"We... have survived worse," Luna replied. There were thick black lines under her eyes and her voice was coming out strained.
"Then I take it you're still perfectly capable of bringing me my moonrock?"
The four equines gasped at Dawn's sudden reappearance. Stringy strands of her mane hung over angry emerald eyes. Her breathing was ragged, and her horn glowed blood-red, the same colour as the wooden beam she held against the neck of a frightened, shaking Ocean Glider.
"Ocean!" Sky cried, her wings flicking out instinctually.
"Stay right there and do as I say, or the pony gets it," Dawn growled. "I'll do it, too. I've expended far too much energy on this project just to let it fall apart at the seams now!"
Ocean yelped as the beam pushed further onto her neck. Sky nearly dived off the platform in rage, but Sibwashie held out a foreleg to stop her. There was a glint in his eye and faint smile on his face.
"Princess Luna, you are going to bring me what I want of your own free will, and you are going to do it right now, unless you want another pony death on your conscience! I did not engineer a famine in Zebrica for this!"
White's eyes widened. "You did that?"
"You'd better believe I did! I planned the 'start a farm in the Lunar Repulic' initiative in Equestria, and I spearheaded the postal service retrenchments to get more ponies for it! Guess who delivers rainclouds from Cloudsdale to Zebrica?
"What's more, I had Trapper and Tamer brainwash that dragon into destroying all that farmland to ensure my success, and I distracted the Elements of Harmony so Celestia wouldn't send them to interfere! I have done so much for this, and I. Am Not. Going. To be. Thwarted!"
Dawn pulled the wooden beam tighter. Ocean gagged. Sky screamed. White gasped. Sibwashie glanced upwards.
"Oh president, oh president, look up at the night!
I gaze at the heavens and see all the stars in flight!
"I see the Bit and the Bridle, and the Three-Headed Fly
But I see not the moon; it is not there in the sky."
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Ezn
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997
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Original Character,Princess Luna,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Long Distance
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Three ponies from Fillydelphia go on a journey beyond Equestria. Adventure ensues.
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complete
| 149 | 7 |
<p>A communication scholar from Canterlot, a mailmare from Fillydelphia, and a zebra diplomat in training, brought together by a hunger for knowledge, embark on a journey of discovery to the mysterious homeland of the dragons.</p>
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everyone
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2012-08-16T10:48:09+00:00
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2013-01-13T05:14:20+00:00
| 2,312 |
Chapter Eighteen
Sibwashie smiled confidently, and a sense of knowing glinted in his eyes. The twilight had turned into night, and Luna had not yet raised the moon. It's only a matter of time now, he thought.
Joyous Dawn snarled. "I don't see what that has to do with anything. Luna will raise the moon, and then she will bring me a piece of it! That, or I am going to kill Ocean Glider! Do as I say, and what in Equestria is that light?!"
At that moment, White Noise felt a warm sensation on his back. A bright yellow light was shining in through the gap in the ceiling, making the night feel just like day. He felt the corners of his mouth turn up instinctually.
A loud voice shouted from above, "No more ponies will be harmed tonight!"
The wooden beam dropped to the ground with a clatter and Ocean took a deep breath. As her face returned to its normal colour, fear and discomfort was replaced by rage and disappointment. Her hindlegs shot into a powerful buck, and she heard a scream.
"Ah-hem," the voice said. "What did I just say?"
Ocean Glider's eyes travelled up to the ceiling, and her eyes met with the stern gaze of a great white alicorn in all her glory – Princess Celestia. A nervous chuckle escaped Ocean's throat before she dropped to the floor in a low bow.
"Sister!" Princess Luna exclaimed, running to embrace Celestia as she landed on the platform.
"I came here as soon as I noticed the lack of a moon in your night, Luna," she said, caressing the back of her sister's mane. "What happened to you? You look a mess!"
Luna's forehead creased. "'Twas her, dear sister!" she exclaimed, pointing an accusing forehoof at Dawn. "The red unicorn! She had evil desires for OUR moon! And she was aided by the green unicorns chained near thy feet!"
Celestia cast a brief glance at Trapper and Tamer, still lying unconscious, and then there was a brilliant flash as she teleported in front of Dawn, who lay on the floor, clutching her midsection. "Explain yourself," Celestia demanded.
Agonisingly, Dawn pulled her head up to look Celestia in the eyes. "I– I had such beautiful plans... everything would have worked out..."
"WASTE NOT thy time with that SCOUNDREL, Celestia," Luna barked. "Know only that she wronged us, and that these good ponies came to our aid."
Princess Celestia nodded. She lent down to whisper something in one of Dawn's ears, and then put her to sleep with the touch of her horn.
"I recognise one of you," Celestia said, turning to the four ponies in the room who were still bowing. "Rise, so that I might see you better."
The four rose, and White saw a glint of recognition in Celestia's eyes as they made contact with his own. He smiled sheepishly.
"You are one of my students," Celestia said kindly, taking a step towards him. "Your name is" – she closed her eyes and concentrated for a moment – "White Noise, and you graduated with a degree in communication magic last year."
"Yes, your majesty," White replied. "That is all correct."
Celestia glanced back at Luna. "You say that this pony and his friends aided you?"
"Yes, YES!" Luna nodded her head vigorously. "Although OUR mane and tail now glow with the STARRY CURTAIN OF NIGHT, we are still weak. Without the help of these brave ponies, we do not know what might have happened."
"I see." Celestia turned back to White. "Tell me, White Noise, my student, what have you learnt?"
"Well I'm not–"
"Once a student, always a student."
"Well I didn't–"
"I'm not interested in your technical learnings."
"Then I guess... I've learnt..."
White's eyes clouded over with thought as he cast his mind back over the ordeal he'd just come out of, and over the journey he'd undertaken to get there. Joyous Dawn had orchestrated so much of the things he'd seen, and so many of the coincidences that led to him and his friends being there that night.
"President Dawn wanted to end famine by bringing a piece of the moon down to where we can grow food on it. She was driven insane by a desire for 'progress', and she hurt so many ponies trying to achieve it. So maybe... progress is bad? ...No, that's not it!"
White thought some more, and the Princess waited. "I began this expedition to find out more about dragonfire, so that I could advance the technology my business runs on. I also wanted progress. But because of that, my employee Melvin thought that his job was going to be made obsolete... and so he embezzled me and committed fraud. Is progress bad?"
Celestia said nothing.
"No, progress can't be bad. If progress were bad, Zebrica would still be a bunch of loose tribes, or we'd all still be at war with the dragons and the griffons. I've got so many ideas for innovations and new products... they can't all be rotten, evil things that'll cause pain and suffering."
A smile was beginning to creep over Celestia's face, and White became more confident.
"And I can't blame myself for what Melvin did! He's a schemer! I think... I think progress is complicated. And I think that's because dragons are complicated... and ponies are too, and so are zebras, and so is everyone! I've met so many different creatures on this journey, good and bad. Is that it? 'Ponies are complicated'?"
Princess Celestia nodded slowly. "Yes, my faithful student, that's it. You have done well."
"Thank-you, Princess!" White said, grinning. "'Ponies are complicated'."
Just then, the air sparked and a scroll materialised in front of Celestia's face. A telekinetic shroud wrapped around it before it hit the floor. "Excuse me," Celestia said. "I need to attend to this for just a moment."
As Celestia stepped away from the ponies to read the scroll, White felt a presence in his mind.
I know about this, White Noise. You have a gift that few ponies ever receive, and it can be a powerful tool for spreading the truth, or an evil power for lying to and manipulating others. I trust that you have used it for good, and I hope you shall continue to do so.
I... have, your Majesty, and I will.
Good. I'll be watching you, and so will Kasdar. Whatever you do with this power, one of us shall find out. Be careful.
Yes, Princess Celestia.
A shiver went down White's back, and he turned to his friends, shaking the thoughts out of his head. "Guess we'd better book that boat ride back. Ocean?"
Ocean Glider just looked at him. Sky stifled a giggle, and Sibwashie shook his head slowly.
At just that moment, there was a whooshing of air and Venkra descended through the gap in the roof. "I couldn't find Dawn anywhere, so she must still be – oh..."
Six pairs of eyes stared up at her.
"I missed something here, didn't I?"
Princess Celestia caught Venkra's eye and smiled up at her. "Yes, Ms Dragon, you did, but it is nothing that cannot be explained later. For now, know that you have my gratitude for whatever part you played in tonight's proceedings, and be still. My sister is about to raise the moon."
A hush fell over the observatory as the Princess of the Night stepped into the center of the raised platform, standing on the spot from which Dawn had previously taunted her. Her coat was matted and her crown askew, but she held her head up high and her starry mane billowed behind it.
Luna's horn glowed, softly at first, but then strong enough that the ponies had to shield their eyes. The glow grew to envelop her body, and with a flap of her wings she ascended three feet off the ground, and then six, and then twelve.
Her audience turned their heads to stare out of the gap in the roof, and they saw the moon – whole and unblemished – slowly rise into view.
"I don't think I missed anything at all," whispered Venkra.
***
"...And that's when Princess Celestia came in and told Ocean off for kicking President Dawn!" Sky finished, smiling broadly.
"Hey!" Ocean chided.
Venkra chuckled and reached for a sapphire from the middle of the table. "It's okay, she deserved it. You go Ocean!"
"Thank you."
The party sat around a circular table in the middle of a large auditorium that the Princesses had arranged to be cleared for their gathering. Celestia and Luna sat next to each other, with the ponies, zebra and dragon around them, digging into the feast that had been provided.
White turned to the Princesses, idly twiddling a fork with his telekinesis. "What are your Highnesses planning to do about... uh... the Lunar Republic? I get the feeling it's going to be a political nightmare."
"Yes, I imagine so," Princess Celestia replied. "President Joyous Dawn was well-loved by her people, and for many good reasons. Luna has told me much about her experiences in this country, and it is with a heavy heart that I am impressed with Dawn's brief leadership."
Luna looked down at her plate, sullen. "I used to be quite fond of her, sister."
"Yes, I'm certain. I had a long chat with Joyous Dawn before coming here. She's a very interesting pony... but quite mad, I fear. I will see to it that she gets the help she needs, and perhaps we can keep this whole sad affair from receiving too much publicity... although that is probably just wishful thinking."
"You're not angry?" asked White. "Not even after she had those two scumbag cronies of hers mind-control and hurt your sister?"
"I am deeply saddened that any ponies would do such horrible things, but I have long learned not to waste anger on what is already past. Those criminals will be put somewhere where they cannot hurt anypony ever again."
White nodded and lifted his fork to his mouth.
Princess Celestia wasn't finished. "My student, as you've learnt, ponies and all other speaking peoples are complex beings. I do not believe that any are predisposed entirely to evil, and I know that we all" – she glanced briefly at Luna – "deserve a second chance. It is just important to take precautions."
"I'll try to remember that, Princess," said White, chewing a lettuce leaf absently. "I think I know of someone I know who it should apply to."
***
The sun shone down brightly on the construction workers as they sweated and toiled rebuilding the front wall of Dragonfire Deliveries. Melvin sat close by, supervising the building and feeling glum. Guess this is my last little job before White fires me. Hope I at least get paid.
Melvin smirked at that, but felt more like crying.
"Ah, Melvin!" said a painfully happy and familiar voice behind him. "Just the dragon I was looking for! I trust everything's going well here – mind if we have a quick word?"
Melvin slowly craned his neck around to glance at White Noise, standing there with his head held high, and nodded slowly. Let's just get this over with.
"Excellent!" White took a seat beside Melvin, and the two watched the building for a while.
"So am I fired?" Melvin asked bluntly.
White put a forehoof to his snout, appearing to think for a time before answering. Oh no, here comes a speech... thought Melvin.
"Well..." White began. "I think that yes, it would be a prudent business decision to fire you. You falsified prices, stole, sold new products without my authorisation, and went against the core philosophy of Dragonfire Delivery – that distance doesn't matter. I have a lot of very good reasons to fire you."
Melvin's head sunk. He wished White would just skip the lecture and fire him.
"However," White continued, "I've been going over the financials and talking to Correspondence, and now I realise that I also have a lot of good reasons not to. You may have stolen from my business, but a lot of what you stole probably wouldn't have come in if not for your innovations. We'll have to adjust the prices, of course, but newspaper delivery and the Dragonfire Digest? That stuff is brilliant!"
Melvin smiled slightly, daring to make eye-contact with his boss.
"Melvin," White said, adopting a serious and official tone, "I hereby promote you to Head of Marketing and Product Development. Correspondence shall be hired to do your old job – well, the parts a pony can do, anyway – and you'll be his supervisor."
"Wow..." Melvin replied, his eyes growing wide. "I– I don't know what to say... Thank you! I won't let you down, boss!"
White smiled, but then grew stern. "I'll be making sure of that. Although you will be Corr's supervisor, I've also asked him to keep an eye on you. What's more, I'm going to be paying closer attention to the financials from now on – Dragonfire Delivery's going places, and I'm going to need to learn some business savvy if I want to keep up."
That's true, Melvin thought, careful to hide his amusement.
"And there are some things you're going to need to learn too, Melvin. Things that a dragon should know – like the full extent of those powers you use to send mail around the world."
"Full extent? Like what?"
White's horn glowed. You'll see... and no, this isn't your brain talking to you.
Melvin's jaw fell open. "Did you–?"
"Ask Venkra about it."
And so Melvin did.
***
A week passed before the Moonchaser was set to leave for Equestria. In that time, the Dragonfire Delivery storefront was mostly rebuilt, and the Princesses had Joyous Dawn sent away to a mental hospital in Equestria.
On the morning of their voyage, the three travellers stood on the docks with Venkra. "I'm going to miss you colourful little horses," she said. "Travelling with you has been the most excitement I've had all century!"
"We'll miss you too, Venkra," said Sky. "Please don't forget to write... or pester White in his brain, if that's easier!"
"Thank you for all your aid, and may your journey be short
I hope we speak again soon, fair lady of the Dragon King's court," Sibwashie said, smiling.
"I get a rhyme!" Venkra grinned toothily. "Take care, stripey singing horse! May your days be... without remorse! ...That was a good one."
"Feel free to pester me whenever you want," White said. "Just not at night. Or when I'm busy with work. Or in the morning before I've had my coffee. Or–"
Venkra cackled loudly. "Okay, got it. I'll try to keep to those conditions, but no promises."
Venkra's friends laughed with her, and then their laughter slowly got quieter and died away. There was a period of silence.
"Guess it's time, huh?" Venkra said. "Nothing I hate more than agonising goodbyes, so... bye! White, stay smart. Sib, stay poetic. Sky, stay awesome!"
With that, Venkra drew her leathery wings and took off, waving a claw before she got too high for anypony on the ground to see it. Her friends waved their forelegs as she turned eastward and began her long flight back to Dragonia.
Sky sighed, and White and Sibwashie lay forehooves on each of her shoulders.
***
Waves jumped out of the path of the Moonchaser as it cut across the water. Three ponies and a zebra stood on its deck, looking back at an island that was slowly disappearing into the distance.
"I wonder what'll happen to the Lunar Republic now that its president's in a straitjacket," Sky wondered aloud.
"Oh, there'll be another election," Ocean said. "The old Farmer–Trader Alliance'll probably win it. They always did before Dawn came along, mainly 'cause they tended to be the only ones who ran."
"You're joking," White said flatly. "All that talk about the power of 'democracy' and you ponies don't even use it properly?"
"Yeah, okay, fine. It's probably just 'cause no-one wants to do the thankless job our politicians have. I worked in that area for long enough to know it ain't no picnic."
Sibwashie smiled knowingly.
"So," Ocean said, "what are your plans now that you're on your way back to Fillydelphia? Gonna go back to the daily grind?"
"For a bit," White replied. "I think I'll focus on my business for a while, maybe do some research, but as soon as I can I want to get back to Zebrica. The zebras who invented radio live in Shangora, and, don't hold me to this, but I think that combinations of radio and dragonfire magics may yield some interesting results."
"When you return to my homeland, I think I too may benefit from another visit
Perhaps we can travel together again, if circumstance will permit it," Sibwashie offered.
"And I'll see if I can't come too!" Sky enthused. "After your little niece was so enthralled by my flying, I can't help but feel that Zebrica would be a great place to give my performing career a bit of a boost."
All three looked at Ocean. "At this rate I'm going to have to make that Lunar Republic–Zebrica trip a regular route."
"I guess this means we'll be seeing each other again soon," Sky said happily, turning her head away from the Lunar Republic and towards Equestria. "I'll be looking forward to it."
The four looked at each other, and then moved to the front of the boat, squinting their eyes to try to get a slight glimpse of the Equestrian shore.
"And, y'know," White began after a time, "there are a few dragons working for me and working at Princess Celestia's school who know nothing of their history or their inborn abilities. Maybe we could talk Venkra into..."
***
In a small inn in Hoofington, Petunia Grassfire sat behind the reception counter, absorbed in a paperback mystery novel. She suspected the butler of stealing the Grazington family's prized paleo-pony-period tapestry, but secretly hoped she'd be proven wrong.
As the grandfather clock against the wall struck five, she heard the door creak and the padding of three sets of hooves on the soft carpet. She looked up to see three familiar faces, all wearing familiar saddlebags that looked a little the worse for wear since the last time they'd been in town.
"Hi Mrs Hospitality!" Sky chirped.
"Greetings to you again, well-named innkeeper's bride
We're returned to this inn in search of a place to reside," added Sibwashie.
A smile broadened across Petunia's kindly old face. "Ms Wave! Mr Sibwashie and Mr Noise! How good to see you all again, and yes, of course we have room for you! How was your trip?"
The three travellers each raised one eyebrow, almost simultaneously. "Eventful," Sky said with a giggle.
Just then, a voice called down the stairs. "Good news, honey! I just read in the paper that they've finally managed to stop the attacks on Ponyv– why, hello there!"
Grassfire descended the staircase, a look of pleasant surprise on his face. "Did you come to hear another story?"
White Noise stepped forward and looked him in the eye. "Actually, Mr Hospitality, this time I think we have a story to tell you."
Acknowledgements
|
Cold in Gardez
|
1001
| 1 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
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A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
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complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
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teen
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2011-09-24T03:05:44+00:00
|
2011-09-24T03:05:44+00:00
| 7,058 |
The longest day of the year passed over the scrub and sage of the Pastel Desert in much the same way every other day that year had: quietly.
Millions of years before, when the desert was actually an inland sea, an unusual variety of zooplankton had thrived in its shallow waters, absorbing the light of a younger sun and the rich mineral salts leeched from nearby mountains by rain. The high alkali concentration stunted or killed most life, but the tiny plankton adapted and exploded, untroubled by predators or competition. In time the exotic mineral soup changed the simple creatures, painting them in a riot of colors: iron red, cobalt blue, sulfur yellow, copper green and calcium white, to name just a few.
As they died the plankton sank to the bottom of the shallow sea. Countless trillions of plankton lived and died beneath the waters, until the slow tectonic shift of continental plates thrust the land under the sea upwards thousands of feet. Spurned by the rain and loved overmuch by the sun, the sea eventually evaporated, leaving only the stratified skeletons of the plankton to remind anypony that water had ever existed there at all.
Time blended and faded the sharp colors and sharper rocks, leaving a gently rolling landscape of lavender and peach, umber and rose, charcoal and ivory. Short, hardy bushes dotted the rocks, the only visible sign of life for dozens of miles in any direction.
For centuries the desert remained unchanged, except for a thin ribbon of train tracks laid by industrious earth ponies building networks between their towns as they moved west. Neither the sage bushes nor the desert seemed to mind the railroad, though the rattle of passing trains sometimes sent lizards and rodents scurrying for cover.
Which is exactly what they did when the train came roaring down the tracks. It was fast – the rails had barely started to shake when the iron monster was upon them, and just as quickly it was gone.
The train was short, consisting only of an engine and a single passenger car, all pulled at breakneck speed by a team of conductor ponies. They galloped down the tracks lathered in sweat and panting for breath. They ran as though the dawning night behind them was in pursuit.
The roof of the passenger car had been converted to a makeshift balcony and was in use by a pair of ponies. One, an orange filly with a yellow mane and a cowboy hat that somehow stayed attached despite the whipping winds, was leaning on a rickety looking railing at the front of the car, her forelegs draped over the rail as she watched the landscape ahead. The other, a lavender unicorn filly, stood next to a telescope and tripod that had been crudely nailed to the car’s roof, to keep it from bouncing off the train. Her head was buried in a large book floating in the air without any visible means of support, aside from a faint purple glow just now becoming visible as sun began to fall beneath the mountains to the west.
“We’re comin’ round a corner, Sugar!” the orange pony called over her shoulder. “We should be able to see her again in a sec!” Ahead of them the tracks bent around a massive hill that had once been a true mountain, until time and wind reduced it to its current state.
The unicorn pony turned a page, then another, and then flipped through the rest of the book before slamming it shut with a growl. The strain of the day’s events was clear on her face – circled, tired eyes and a frazzled mane above tightly drawn lips. She levitated the book over to a trapdoor in the roof and let it drop into the car below.
The train took the turn without slowing down. The car rocked and began leaning dangerously, but before it could roll off the tracks they rounded the curve and were back on a straightaway. Ahead of them the sun had almost set – only a tiny piece of the orb remained above the mountains. The world around them darkened as twilight took hold.
But then the train passed all the way around the hill, and sunlight found them again.
To the south, miles away and high above the desert floor, something like a shooting star traced its way across the sky, paralleling the tracks as it headed west. It was nearly as bright as the setting sun, its flickering light illuminating the landscape below like noon. Even from the train it was impossible to look at directly for more than an instant. Twilight Sparkle dared a glance, then quickly turned away, blinking her watering eyes to clear the dazzling afterimage.
“Now that’s powerful bright,” Applejack said. She tipped her hat down to shade her eyes like a sensible filly. “Find anything in them thar’ books?”
“No,” Twilight said glumly. “I don’t even know where to start. I have half my library in this car but it would take a week to read through it all, and even then we could miss something important because we didn’t know it was important!”
The lavender pony rested her forehead on the railing. Over the roar of the train she could barely make out a faint rumble, like an unending thunder, coming from the south.
Applejack sighed. “The conductors are gonna need to stop soon,” she said. “You look like you could use a rest yerself.”
Twilight’s head came up with a jerk. “But we just caught up to her! If we stop now she’ll get away!”
“I know, Sug, but we can’t--” she stopped suddenly, her eyes on the sky to the south. Twilight followed her gaze and gasped.
The shooting star was flickering badly. It nearly vanished several times before popping back to full brightness, but just as quickly it began to falter again. The constant rumble of thunder became a series of staccato booms felt in their chests.
“What’s happening?” Applejack asked quietly, her words barely audible above the din.
Twilight stared at the shooting star. “Of course… it’s the sunset,” she said. “The sunset!”
To the west the last sliver of the sun dipped below the mountains, and the shooting star went out.
***
“Stop the train!”
“What?” Applejack stared at her in confusion.
“Tell them to stop! I can’t use the scope if we’re bouncing around like this!” Twilight fumbled with the telescope and tripod, trying to orient it to the south. The shooting star was a barely visible spark descending from the evening sky.
The train lurched as Applejack’s message reached the conductor ponies. When it finally settled she peered through the spyglass’s eyepiece, trying to find the glimmering dot against the emerging night.
“I think she’s landing,” Applejack said. The orange pony stood by Twilight’s side, squinting as she tried to find their target. “Try looking lower.”
“Got her,” Twilight said. Through the scope she found a thin black line that slowly resolved into a smoke trail, like the ones left by the Wonderbolts during their performances. As she followed the trail to its head the smoke slowly turned red, then orange, and finally a brilliant yellow surrounding a tiny, incandescent white nucleus streaking toward the earth. With a quick spin of one of the telescope rings the white spot jumped in magnification, filling the entire eyepiece.
It was like staring at the sun again. As her eye slowly adjusted to the brightness she could barely make out a pair of huge, feathered wings, their tips a dull cherry red that seemed nearly black when they passed in front of the alicorn’s body. The air around it was literally on fire, a halo of flames that gave birth to the trail of smoke.
“Oh no… no no no no no,” she mumbled. Applejack turned to her in concern.
“What? What’s wrong, Twi?”
“She’s not landing,” she said in shock. “She’s falling.”
The alicorn tumbled through the air, wings useless, completely out of control. Twilight pulled her eye away from the telescope in time to see the falling star meet the horizon.
“Princess…” she whispered.
The falling alicorn streaked past a low mountain and slammed into a rock outcropping nearly the size of Canterlot Keep. From the train it looked like the world’s largest firework; a shower of brilliant sparks rose into the air like a blossoming flower, soaring high above the mountain itself, followed by a fountain of yellow lava that sprayed upward and out like a severed artery. The outcropping collapsed a moment later, sending boulders the size of houses rolling for miles down the mountainside. The explosion grew in silence for several seconds before a titanic *CLAP* shook the train and raised clouds of dust from the desert floor around them.
Twilight fell back onto her haunches, her ears ringing from the blast. She watched numbly as a rockslide large enough to devour Ponyville slid down the mountain, accompanied by a river of lava that formed a small, burning lake at its foot.
Applejack managed to stay on her hooves, but couldn’t keep from shaking so hard her teeth chattered. From overhead came the whistle of rocks zooming by, followed by faint thuds as they landed. Some of the falling stones were nearly the size of a wagon, Twilight noted absently.
Neither of them moved. As the sun sank further below the horizon the world grew darker, illuminated only by the flickering orange of the burning mountain. Even as night took hold they could still see clearly by the flames.
Finally Twilight stood. Without a word she hopped down the trap door into the car, and then jumped out the back door onto the tracks. Before Applejack could find her voice, the purple unicorn was already trotting toward the mountain.
“Hey… Hey! Wait for me, Sug!” she yelled. “Gosh darned filly,” she added under her breath, then hopped clean over the railing to the desert floor and took off after her friend.
***
“Slow down, girl! You’re gonna git yerself hurt!”
“I’m fine!” Twilight yelled. She really wasn’t, though; galloping across the desert at night wasn’t the safest or smartest thing to do, and she’d already nearly snapped an ankle on an unseen crevasse. The purple light of her horn wasn’t much help, only lighting the ground a few feet in front of her.
“Just take it easy, it doesn’t matter how fast we git there,” Applejack tried to reassure her.
“She needs our help!”
“You won’t be much help with a broken leg. If she survived that fall she’ll survive the extra minute it takes us to reach ‘er safely.”
The unicorn stumbled and almost fell as Applejack’s words sank it. She spun around to face the other pony, pointing her horn like a weapon.
“How can you say that?!” Tears left wet trails in the dust on her face. “Don’t you care about her?”
Applejack stopped a few feet away. “Of course I do,” she said quietly. “You know I do. I’m just bein’ honest.”
Calm, practical Applejack. Twilight lowered her horn, choking back a sob.
“I’m sure she’s fine,” Applejack said. She placed a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder. “Now come on, let’s do this together.”
Twilight sniffled, and then bobbed her head. Together they turned to the mountain and walked the rest of the way.
***
The fallen alicorn was waiting in a pool of glowing rock perhaps twenty feet across. By approaching from the higher ground on the side of the mountain they could get within a pony length of reaching her before their hooves began to smoke. Applejack retreated with a startled yelp, and grabbed Twilight’s tail in her mouth to pull her back when she didn’t follow.
“I think we’re gonna have to wait, Sug,” she said. Beside her Twilight ground her teeth in frustration.
“But she needs us now!” Twilight hissed. “Look at her!”
Applejack sighed. “Twi, if she can survive in that, she can survive anythin’. And nothin’ we can do will help her.”
The rock around the alicorn simmered as they watched. Occasionally a large bubble would burst with enough force to spray flecks of lava over her wings and head, the only parts of her body not submerged in the liquid stone. The drops ran like water down her feathers and hide, leaving no mark to signify their passage.
Twilight stomped her hoof in frustration. “Princess!” she called, “It’s your faithful student! Can you hear us?”
The alicorn had no response.
“Princess!”
Near the edge of the lava a boulder cracked with a deafening report, half of it slipping into the pool while the rest tumbled down the hillside, starting small brush fires as it rolled.
“Sug, it’s not—"
“Princess! CELESTIA!”
Applejack rested a hoof on the unicorn’s shoulder. “Twilight, enough. She’s either asleep or—"
Twilight batted the hoof away, interrupting the filly. “Or what?!” she demanded.
“Or unconscious,” Applejack finished calmly. “Either way, yellin’ at her ain’t gonna help.”
The unicorn glowered at her for a moment, then seemed to wilt. She sat back on her haunches, head so low it nearly touched the hot earth, and started to sob.
“I’m s-sorry, AJ,” she said quietly. “I don’t know what to do. Nothing like this has ever happened before.”
Applejack drew her into a tight hug. “It’s okay, we’ll figure somethin’ out.”
Twilight continued to sniffle for a while, until the tears finally ran out. She gave her head an angry shake and stood, stomping the ground again.
“Applejack,” she said. Her voice was as clear and calm as if she were in her library.
“Yeah Sug?”
“How far is Appleloosa?”
The orange filly stood and looked around at the nearest mountains, comparing them to memories of visits to her cousin’s town.
“Hm, maybe 10 miles? Lookin’ for a place to stay?”
She snorted. “No, we need more help. Can you head there with the train and tell them what happened?”
“Sure can. What do ya need us to bring?”
Twilight thought for a moment, then sighed. “I don’t know. Everything I guess.”
“Alright, everything it is. You stayin’ here?”
She nodded, her eyes fixed on the alicorn. She kicked a loose stone into the lava where it sank without a sound.
“Well, alright then. I’ll be back just as soon as I can.”
Applejack started to turn back to the train when she felt a warm nose nuzzle her shoulder. She smiled, and stopped long enough to give the unicorn a tight hug.
“Thanks AJ,” Twilight said. “Sorry about all that.”
“Aw, it’s nothin’ Sug. It’s been a long day.”
After Applejack left it was a long and lonely night, as well.
***
Three months earlier…
Trixie was an unhappy pony.
She never would have admitted that, least of all to herself, but her powers of self-delusion were starting to wear a bit thin after being chased from yet another town. Apparently this “Winter Wrap-Up” celebration was not a good time to advertise her magnificent magical skills by offering to use her power to melt the snow.
Or teleport the animals out of their burrows.
Or blast the clouds from the sky.
In retrospect, she hadn’t really “offered” to do those things, in the technical sense of the word. She just did them. It was better to ask for forgiveness than permission, right? That’s how powerful magicians worked.
And was she thanked for her efforts? Did they shower the Great and Powerful Trixie with praise (and bits) for her dazzling display of magical prowess?
No! The ungrateful earth ponies actually booed her! They accused her of ruining the celebration!
Granted, she probably shouldn’t have called them “dirt” ponies, not out loud at least. But that’s what they were – earth, dirt, mud: all the same. They spent their days grubbing in the soil, trying to eke out a living. It was actually very generous of certain talented unicorns – like herself – to stop and try to make their pitiful lives a little more bearable.
They were lucky! Even if they didn’t realize it now, someday they would tell their foals of the time the Great and Powerful Trixie visited their town and blessed them with her magic. They would weep as they recalled how poorly they treated her. “Someday,” they would say to their young, “another magician may deign to visit our pitiful little hovel. Treat her with kindness! Do not repeat our mistakes! Woe! Repent!”
Mud ponies. Dirt ponies.
Anyway, on the open road again. This really was the best life for a pony like her: travelling the world, helping the less fortunate. If it happened to cement her reputation as the greatest magician in all of Equestria, well, she could hardly be held responsible for the hysterical adoration she caused in everypony who met her.
The Great and Powerful Trixie was happy, she decided. There was nothing she wanted to do more right now than walk down this very road, to whatever fortunate town awaited her arrival.
She was a little hungry, maybe, on account of not eating for a few days. But she was happy.
Her legs were a bit sore, from galloping to escape the angry herd in that town whose name she hadn’t bothered to learn. But she was happy.
She was a tad cold, what with all the snow, and her lack of winter clothing.
And her wagon. Mustn’t forget the wagon, lost those many months ago.
Or her books, lost with the wagon, that she had spent so many nights pouring over.
Or her beloved hat and cape, purchased with the first bits she earned from performing on street corners in Canterlot, now gone as well.
She stopped and stomped her hoof. These were not happy thoughts. They were not helping.
She was happy. Happy. The Great and Powerful Trixie had never been happier than she was on that snowy road, stung by a knifing winter wind, in the deepening gloom of twilight.
“The Great and Powerful Trixie,” she announced to no one in particular, “is delighted to be here. Delighted!”
She didn’t need a stage to perform – the world was her stage! She reared up on her back legs, hooves spread wide, imagining the next cheering crowd before her.
“Come one, come all!” she called. “Come and witness the amazing magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie!” A wave of her hoof filled the sky with blue and silver fireworks, their thunderous claps shaking the snow from the branches around her and sending animals fleeing in terror for miles around.
“Watch in awe as the Great and Powerful Trixie performs the most spectacular feats of magic ever witnessed by pony eyes!” She pranced in a circle and the ground beneath her lurched into the air, lifting her up on an earthen pedestal as high as the treetops. A magical spotlight popped into existence, lighting her like a star.
“Behold, as she commands the powers of the arcane!”
She thrust a hoof toward a dark, snow-covered field, her horn glowing with a brilliant silver light. The snow roiled and shook, moving about as though being shaped by an invisible sculptor. It piled higher and higher, quickly taking the form of a massive, white dragon that shambled toward her, puffs of snow and frost falling from its joints with each creaking step. Icy claws grasped her pedestal as it towered over her, its wings blotting out the sky.
And then it bent low, and laid its head at her feet.
She twirled to face a stand of trees. “Gasp, as nature itself worships her!” Beads of sweat collected on her hide despite the freezing cold, and began to trickle in streams down her body. Clenching her teeth, she stared at the trees, her horn flaring like a torch.
Silver sparks appeared around the trees and they began to lean, as though being pressed down by a great weight. Slowly at first, then with greater speed, they bent until their bare crowns touched the ground, bowing to her.
“Quake before her majesty!” she shouted, her showpony’s voice quavering with strain. Wide, shaking eyes stared at the road as her magic filled it with illusions. Dozens, hundreds of ponies cheered for her, stomping their hooves, calling out her name. Flights of spectral pegasi soared in formation overhead, paying tribute to her greatness. Waves of fireworks lit the sky like day.
“Love her! LOVE TRIXIE!” she screamed at the illusions, flecks of froth flying from her lips. The trees began to crack under the strain of her magic, their trunks snapping like twigs. The snow dragon lifted its head and rocked back as she fell to her knees. It flailed at the air, as though fighting an unseen enemy, then slowly disintegrated, forming piles of snow and ice that would take weeks to melt.
The earthen pedestal began to lean slightly, then suddenly slumped, giving up the fight against gravity. It sank into an irregular mound, depositing the shivering, crying pony on the icy road. Around her the illusions flickered and went out.
“Love me…” she whispered, and wondered, not for the first time, where it had all gone wrong.
***
Eventually the cold and wind forced her to her feet. Unable to go back, she went forward.
Hours later the road came to an intersection. Some helpful pony had put up a sign to guide travelers, which she glumly surveyed. Most of the names she didn’t recognize. One, she did.
Canterlot. How long had it been since she started there? Years, at least. She could barely remember the rough streets, the early, clumsy performances.
Going back there would be like admitting defeat. Admitting that the wide, open world was too much for her.
On the other hand, all artists occasionally needed a break. She had done well enough at Canterlot as a filly; imagine what she could accomplish as a powerful magician!
She could make a new name for herself there; she could recover from the past few months. New allies would bankroll her performances. She could be the newest star in Equestria’s greatest city.
Yes, Canterlot. She practiced saying the word, and found she liked it.
Head higher, a bounce in her step, she started down the road to Celestia’s city.
She felt happier already.
|
Cold in Gardez
|
1001
| 2 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
|
A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
|
complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
|
teen
|
2011-09-24T23:47:08+00:00
|
2011-09-24T23:47:08+00:00
| 4,687 |
The purple foal had never been more excited in her young life. She bounced in place, trying to see over the heads of the taller ponies in the crowd around her, until finally her father picked her up and placed her on his back.
Ahead of them, at the front of the Solarium, Canterlot’s largest plaza, hundreds of craftsponies had spent the night constructing a special stage, behind which the first light of dawn was beginning to rise in the East. Now there were thousands of ponies crowded into every open space as far as she could see, filling the air with the sound of hooves on marble, the faint hum of conversation, and the rustle of pegasus wings overhead.
The babble of the crowd suddenly grew louder, and faint cheers broke out near the front. Trumpets sounded as a giant white pegasus with a unicorn horn walked onto the stage. The figure towered over the guards and other ponies, making them look like foals beside her.
“I can see her!” she squeaked into her father’s ear, her forelegs wrapped around his neck for balance.
He whickered quietly, amused. “Keep watching, Sparky. It hasn’t started yet.”
On the stage the alicorn princess spent a moment watching the mountains. Then, as the newborn sun’s rays broke over the horizon, she leapt, her massive wings lofting her into the air. With a final beat she hovered in front of a golden crescent sculpture that very nearly matched the mark on her flank, and the full light of the sun behind her washed over the plaza. The longest day of the year had begun.
Every year since, for as long as she lived in Canterlot, Twilight Sparkle never missed the Summer Sun celebration.
***
Canterlot hadn’t changed much since Trixie’s last visit. No surprise there; the city was a reflection of its ruler, a millennia-old alicorn princess. Celestia had long ago decided she was happy with the state of Canterlot, and that was good enough for most ponies. If you didn’t like it, well, there was a wide open world you were free to explore.
In truth, there was much to love about Canterlot. Every street was a work of art – carefully laid cobblestones, soft on the hooves, led to wide intersections decorated with fountains and statues. Ornate lampposts pleased the eye during the day, and lit the way at night. Graceful bridges stretched across placid streams, and everywhere there was green. Trees, grass, flowers, gardens; the whole city sometimes seemed more like an elaborate park than a place where ponies actually lived and worked.
Above it all, perched on the side of a mile-high mountain, was Canterlot Keep. Celestia’s castle, the capital of Equestria; a dream wrought from marble and rainbows.
And home to ponies with more money than sense. Trixie’s favorite kind of pony.
The Great and Powerful Trixie moved through the crowds like a fish through water. As she walked she remembered the rhythms of the city, the steps of the artful dodger she had once been. She watched the ponies around her with a practiced eye, gauging the flow of traffic and the open spaces where crowds might form.
Eventually she came to one of Canterlot’s famous plazas, a broad courtyard of pink granite flagstones and sparkling fountains. Ponies relaxed beneath trees and on wrought-iron benches, enjoying one of the first beautiful days of spring. The central fountain was nearly fifty paces across and ringed by a broad marble bench. Families sat on the edge of the fountain, watching their foals splash about in the water.
When she still had her wagon, Trixie had preferred to give set performances, using her grandest spells and tricks in more-or-less the same routine. But before she owned her own stage she had been a master improviser, able to turn any situation extraordinary by her mere presence.
And now it was time to improvise. She hopped up onto the fountain’s edge, spells and routines tumbling through her head. She wanted something impressive but not ostentatious. Canterlot was a poor place for boasting – the city itself was the greatest star, and difficult to compete with.
The key is not to do the impossible, she thought, part of the mantra she always recited before performing. Her horn glowed as she cast the first of many spells. It is to do the impossible, and make it look easy.
She took a step, and walked out onto the water as though it were solid earth. Eyes closed, she paused with her head tilted up and her mane tossed behind her shoulder in an arrogant silver wave.
Her performer’s instinct told her to wait. Wait until the hum of conversation died down as ponies noticed her. Wait until she heard hoofsteps drawing closer. Wait until the crowd began to chatter again.
Water-walking was a difficult skill. Most unicorns, if they bothered to learn it, could only take a few steps before sinking. A magician unicorn might be able to stand on water indefinitely, if they were careful. But she was no mere magician.
The Great and Powerful Trixie began to dance.
She started slowly, cantering in a circle with her eyes still closed, legs crossing as she pirouetted about the water. An excited babble started in the crowd, and a few ponies stomped their hooves in appreciation.
The sounds of approval were like nectar, like delicious wine. She hopped forward three times, then leapt high into the air, hooves extended, before landing perfectly on her forelegs. Someone in the crowd cheered.
The key is not to do the impossible. She darted forward, her hooves skating across the water like ice. She crouched and then jumped again, spinning in the air to land backwards, still gliding over the water in a wide circle that brought her to a slow stop near the crowd.
It is to do the impossible, and make it look easy. Exhaling, she raised a single hoof, and her horn glowed as the performance truly began.
The water in front of her roiled, as though being stirred by an invisible hoof. Faster and faster it spun, until out of the whirl a blob of water the size of a pony appeared, rising to the surface before her. The amorphous form slowly attenuated and drew tighter, assuming a shape as it shrank. She heard shouts from the crowd as she focused her magic, wielding it like a knife.
The crowd was utterly silent when her spell finished. Before them on the water stood two unicorns – one of flesh and blood, the other sculpted entirely from liquid water. Its mane was gently flowing mist, its horn like an icicle, all atop a gracefully arching neck and imperiously tilted head.
If she had stopped there it still would have been a magnificent show, certainly more than anypony ever expected outside a performance hall. But she was the Great and Powerful Trixie; magnificent was just a starting point for her.
She turned her hoof upward, holding it out to the water sculpture. With a fluid grace it raised its leg, gently clasped her hoof with its own, and together they resumed the dance.
The crowd went insane.
Hundreds of ponies had jammed the open space around the fountain. Some, toward the edges, had even climbed into the water to get a closer look. Soon the crowd itself became part of the attraction, as ponies wandering by stopped to see what the cheering was for.
She spun elegantly across the waves, each hoof placed with a precision and grace that would have been at home in Canterlot’s finest balls. The water sculpture mirrored her movements, sometimes close enough to touch, other times far enough away that they seemed to be dancing separately.
The noise around her was deafening. Ponies shouted, cheered and stomped their hooves. She could barely hear herself think.
It was wonderful.
After a few final orbits she came to a stop just feet from the front of the crowd, the water unicorn by her side. With a casual gesture of her hoof she dismissed the magic binding it, and it collapsed back into the pool without a trace. She reared back on her hind feet, hooves spread wide, head tossed back in abandon, as though ready to embrace every pony in the crowd. The cheering somehow grew louder.
She stood that way for a long while, drinking their adoration like a flower drinking sunlight. Small splashes sounded around her, and she realized they were tossing bits into the fountain.
Not a bad start. Not bad at all.
***
Twilight Sparkle was having a good day, and she hadn’t even gotten out of bed yet.
She had set her alarm extra early the night before. Part of her hadn’t wanted to go to bed at all, and just stay up bouncing around the library in excitement, but that was foalish and she was no longer a foal. She was a sensible mare who knew the importance of getting a good night’s sleep.
So she went to bed. Reluctantly.
Finally the alarm went off. It didn’t wake her – she’d been awake and staring at it for more than twenty minutes, silently willing it to move faster.
She was up and out of the bed so fast she might as well have teleported. The covers hadn’t even landed back on the bed and she was already out of the room, trotting down the stairs to the Library proper.
“Spike! Spiiiike! Wake up Spike!”
There was a muffled crash from upstairs, followed by a thrashing sound, like someone was having a fight with their pillow.
“Get up Spike!” she called again.
“Wha… what? Twilight?” He poked his head over the loft where he slept, eyes bleary with sleep.
“Good morning, sleepy head!”
“Twilight, it’s… the sun’s not even up, Twilight.”
“I know! Do you want some breakfast? I think there’s some jade left.”
The tiny dragon wandered into the kitchen, rubbing his bleary eyes. “What’s got you so excited?” he asked, and wandered over to the pantry to start pulling ingredients for breakfast before Twilight could try to do so herself. He had learned to head that disaster off at the pass.
She hopped in place. “Do you remember last month when Celestia invited us to attend the Summer Sun Celebration in Canterlot?”
He nodded. He remembered most of the messages he coughed up as part of their correspondence.
“Well, she said I could bring as many of my friends as I wanted!”
He poured some water into a kettle and breathed on it, quickly heating it to a boil with his flames. He waited for her to continue, but she simply stared at him with the eager smile she used when she wanted people to ask her stuff.
He sighed. “Okay, so why is this morning important?”
She clapped her hooves together. “The Formal Events Etiquette Manual says that you should wait until 60 days before an event before inviting your friends, if they will be attending as your guests.”
He disguised rolling his eyes by turning to grab a bag of dried oats. He measured some into a bowl and poured the steaming water into it, giving the whole mixture a stir with his claw before putting it on the table for her.
“Let me guess. Today is 60 days before the – hey, don’t eat that yet! Let it sit for a minute.”
Twilight looked up from the oatmeal she had been about to stick her muzzle into, chagrined. She hated waiting for her breakfast.
“So, ah, yes, today is 60 days before the Celebration, which means I can start asking people to come!” She paused, then added, “Would you like to come, Spike?”
“You know, just because a book says something doesn’t mean…” he trailed off as she narrowed her eyes. He coughed and continued, “Count me out. The last time I attended that thing, Nightmare Moon tried to take over the world.”
She took a tentative bite of the oatmeal, and then blew on the bowl, trying to cool it off a bit faster. “I guarantee you that won’t happen this year, Spike,” she said, before trying another bite.
“I’m sure you’ll find some other disaster, Twilight.”
“Gee, thanks.” At least the oatmeal was good.
***
The sun was just barely over the horizon as she made it out the door, filling the misty air with a gentle golden glow. She hopped once to settle her saddlebags, then levitated a scroll out of one of her pockets, stretching it open in front of her. On it was the checklist she had prepared last night – mostly errands, but also the names of the six friends she hoped would accompany her. One, Spike’s, had been sadly crossed out.
Checklists were one of Twilight Sparkle’s guilty pleasures. Anything and everything that could be organized into a checklist, was. Checklists turned the chaos of life into neat, ordered rows to be individually ticked off as they were accomplished. For a bookworm who found pony relations sometimes confusing, they were a source of comfort. She couldn’t help but feel smug when using them; more organized and logical than other, non-checklist-using ponies. Sometimes, when no one was watching, she would draw empty boxes with no associated tasks and check them off, just for fun.
She had arranged her friends in the order they were likely to wake up, so she could visit them more efficiently. Applejack, probably already out tending apple trees, was at the top. Rainbow Dash, who wouldn’t leave her cloud before noon, was solidly at the bottom, below the other ponies, shopping and lunch.
Sweet Apple Acres was already in full swing when Twilight arrived. Earth ponies were out in the orchards, pruning branches, planting new trees and making repairs to the irrigation system. Applejack, as Twilight expected, was directing work at the barn with her brother.
The orange earth pony trotted out to meet her, calling out a cheerful greeting. “Howdy Sugar! What brings you ‘round here?”
Twilight gave her a friendly nuzzle. “Good morning AJ,” she said, and then stood back a step and cleared her throat.
“As you may know,” she started her rehearsed invitation, “Princess Celestia will be holding the annual Summer Sun Celebration in Canterlot in two months. She has graciously decided to invite me and anypony of my choosing to attend as her special guests in the Palace seating section. I would be honored if you would agree to accompany me to this event.”
“Aw, Sug, I’d love to,” she answered. “But it won’t be like the Gala, will it?”
There was an uncomfortable silence as they both relived the catastrophe that had been the Grand Galloping Gala.
“Er, no,” Twilight finally said. “This will be much less formal. Almost everypony in Canterlot will be there, not just the aristocracy.”
Applejack stomped a hoof in approval. “Well, count me in then. Who else is coming?”
Twilight brought out her checklist and ticked off the box next to Applejack’s name, enjoying a secret thrill as she did. “Just us so far. I’m sure the rest of the girls will too, though.”
***
“…graciously decided to invite me and anypony of my choosing to attend as her special guests in the Palace seating section. I would be honored if you would agree to accompany me to this event.”
Pinkie Pie gasped and clapped her hooves over her mouth as Twilight finished, her eyes wide as saucers.
“Twilight Sparkle, are you asking me to be your DATE?!”
“What? No, Pinkie, as my guest.”
“Well it soooouuunds like you’re looking for a date, silly filly,” Pinkie replied, bouncing in a merry circle around the bemused unicorn.
Twilight turned, trying to track the hyperactive pony. “Don’t be ridiculous. Applejack is coming too, and she didn’t call this a--” she didn’t get to finish her sentence.
“Applejack too?! Oooooohhhh, it’s that kind of date,” she said slyly, giving Twilight a giant stage wink.
Twilight resisted the urge to smack herself in the forehe ad. “It’s not a… oh, nevermind. Can you come?”
“Of course I can!” Pinkie hopped in place, her hooves fluttering wildly. Suddenly she froze in mid-hop, a puzzled look on her face.
“Wait, what day did you say it was?” the pink pony asked.
“The… Summer Sun Celebration? It’s the day of the Summer Sun Celebration, of course.”
Pinkie tilted her head to the side slightly, her hoof rubbing her chin as she thought.
“Hmm…. I thought there was another party that day,” she said.
“Somepony’s birthday?”
Pinkie shook her head, chewing her lip as she thought. “Nope, no birthdays.”
“A wedding?”
Pinkie giggled. “Silly Twilight, I’d never forget a wedding! They’re the BEST parties!”
Twilight sighed. “Well, what was it, then?”
Pinkie knocked her hoof against her head, as though trying to jar the memory loose. “It was some kind of celebration, I think,” she said. “OOH! It had to do with the sun!”
Twilight closed her eyes and rubbed her temples with her hooves.
“Was it the Summer Sun Celebration, Pinkie?”
Pinkie shrieked and wrapped her forelegs around the unicorn in a bone-crushing hug. “THAT’S IT! Twilight, you’re a GENIUS!”
Twilight couldn’t breathe. This is how diamonds are formed, she thought. Finally the pink pony released her, and the grey tunnel receded from her vision.
“So, can you come?” she asked a bit weakly.
“Oh, I’m so sorry Twilight.” She really did look sorry; the world itself seemed to lose some of its color as she pouted. “But there’s a party here to celebrate the Summer Sun Celebration. If I go with you, who will run the party?”
Part of Twilight wanted to tell Pinkie to forget the party, that it wasn’t important. Fortunately, the part of Twilight that didn’t want to be buried in a shallow grave in the Everfree forest won out.
“Oh, it’s alright Pinkie,” she said, and gave her friend a nuzzle. “We’ll be fine without you, and I’m sure it will be a great party.”
Pinkie beamed at her, and the color came back into the world.
***
Three hours later, Twilight Sparkle was feeling a bit grumpy. She munched on a daisy flower and grass sandwich outside the Hayseed Café and reviewed the checklist resting in front of her.
Applejack’s name had a satisfying check mark next to it, but so far her other friends had been less receptive to her invitation.
Pinkie Pie’s parties obviously took precedence. The town was relying on her to organize the celebration, and knowing Pinkie it would probably rival the festivities in Canterlot.
Rarity had said she would “rather die” than see Prince Blueblood again. Twilight thought that was a bit overdramatic, even for Rarity, but the girls had never gotten the full story from her of what happened on the night of the Gala.
Fluttershy had sounded happy about coming, until Twilight started talking about how exciting the crowds were, and how thousands of ponies would see them up on stage with the princess. It had taken her an hour to talk the shivering pegasus out from under the table.
That just left Rainbow Dash, who should be waking up soon. Twilight finished her sandwich, left a precisely calculated tip, and cantered off to find the blue pegasus pony.
It was a short search. One of the treetop-high clouds near the edge of town had a garish, multi-hued tail hanging over its edge. She trotted as close as she could, and started yelling.
“Daaaaash! Wake up!”
The tail gave a flick and vanished on top of the cloud. Twilight rolled her eyes.
“I know you’re up there, Dash! Come down!”
No response.
“I have important news regarding an upcoming event!” she teased.
Still nothing. She scowled.
“Don’t make me come up there!”
She heard what sounded like a cross between a snort and a giggle come from the cloud.
“Some ponies…” she muttered to herself. Well, fine. She could play that game too. She spun together the cloud-walking spell she had learned for their visit to Cloudsdale, her hooves glowing a light purple for a moment as the magic sank in. She tapped her hooves together to make sure the spell was firmly set, then turned to look up at the cloud, closing her eyes and imagining herself standing atop it.
Her horn flashed, and when she opened her eyes she was on top of what felt like fluffy cotton, next to a startled blue pegasus.
Dash yelped and rolled away, nearly tumbling off the cloud before flapping her wings frantically to recover. She settled back onto the cloud with a dour look for the giggling unicorn.
“You know, Twilight, the reason pegasus ponies can stand on clouds is so we can’t be bothered while we’re sleeping.”
“Good morning to you, too!” She glanced up at the sun. “Or should I say, good afternoon?”
Dash grumbled something just below Twilight’s hearing range. Her mane looked like a bird’s nest that had survived a paint factory explosion.
“So what’s so important that you had to interrupt my nap?” Dash fluffed the cloud with her hooves and then flopped onto her belly.
“As you may know, Princess Celestia will be holding the annual Summer Sun Celebration in Canterlot in two months. She has graciously decided to invite me—"
“Boring!”
Twilight frowned, but pressed on. “Ahem. She has graciously decided to invite me and anypony of my choosing to attend as her special guests—"
“Still bored!”
Twilight scowled. “Rainbow Dash, we are being offered a chance to attend an important historic event of immense cultural significance. You should be excited about this opportunity!”
“Uh huh.” Dash rolled onto her side, facing away from the unicorn. “Ask Scootaloo – she loves important historic events of boring significance.”
“Really?” Twilight perked up. “I didn’t know she was so culturally inclined. Maybe this will have something to do with her cutie…” she trailed off as she noticed Dash snickering.
She decided to attack from another angle. “You know, I hear the Wonderbolts will be attending,” she said casually. A blue ear swiveled around to face her.
“They’ll be giving one of their biggest performances of the year,” she continued. “They’ve been working on new routines all winter, I’m told. I’m sure it will be ‘awesome’.”
Dash rolled onto her back, staring up at the higher clouds with feigned nonchalance. “Go on,” she said.
“I bet they’ll even stop to speak with all the guests in the VIP section.” She paused, then struck. “You know, where we’ll be sitting.”
Dash sigh and rose to her hooves. “Fine, fine. But it better be awesome!”
Twilight hopped with a delighted squeal and smothered the pegasus with a hug. “Oh, thank you Dash!”
“Hey, watch the mane!”
Twilight was so happy she forgot to mark her checklist.
|
Cold in Gardez
|
1001
| 3 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
|
A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
|
complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
|
teen
|
2011-09-24T23:36:09+00:00
|
2011-09-24T23:36:09+00:00
| 4,511 |
The past few weeks had been extremely kind to Trixie.
Other ponies might have felt lucky in her shoes. They might have wondered what they had done to deserve being showered with bits, or staying in fine inns and eating three hot meals a day. Some of them, the wiser ones, might have started making plans for the future that didn’t rely on blind fortune.
Trixie wasn’t that kind of pony. It was obvious to her what she had done to deserve all those things: be herself. The hardships of her months on the road were an aberration, a series of unfortunate events that in no way reflected on her value as a pony. A monumental wrong was being undone and the universe itself was now a better place.
Still, she reflected, things could be better. Her performances in the streets and parks were pulling in a steady stream of income, but they weren’t generating much respect. Outside Canterlot she was the Great and Powerful Trixie; here she was just another street performer, applauded and soon forgotten as ponies went about their business.
So despite being warm, and fed, and having a place to sleep at night, Trixie came to an unusual conclusion – she decided she wasn’t a happy pony.
Yes, she felt happy most of the time, especially when surrounded by cheering crowds or scooping up the bits they tossed her way, but that wasn’t the same as being happy. The only way she could truly be happy was as the Great and Powerful Trixie.
And that was looking increasingly unlikely, as long as she stayed in Canterlot. The Great and Powerful Trixie required the worship and adoration of her fellow ponies, and worship was a limited resource when you lived in a town with a pair of celestial gods who moved the heavens on a daily basis. They had something of a monopoly on worship.
She mulled over her troubles while enjoying a sumptuous dinner at a cozy upscale bistro in Canterlot’s unicorn district. The Prancing Pony had become something of a hang-out for her, to the point that the cook already had her dinner laid out when she arrived. Lightly toasted oats drizzled with honey were artfully arranged on her plate, garnished with a delightful wood sorrel whose acidity gently offset the sweetness of the grains.
What to do, what to do. She pondered the question between bites, washing down the sumptuous mouthfuls with sips from a mug of warm, spiced cider.
She could leave Canterlot again, but that would mean, well, leaving Canterlot. She wasn’t that unhappy yet. A waiter pony carefully slid the empty plate out from in front of her, replacing it with a slice of frosted carrot cake still warm from the oven.
Halfway through the cake (which was unspeakably delicious) she had a sudden epiphany. Canterlot offered her the physical comforts and riches she deserved, but the ponies here were too blinded by the city itself to recognize her greatness. The ponies in the small towns and villages she visited, despite their quaint and humdrum lives, were in the best position to acknowledge her power and glory (and adore her appropriately). She was like the moon in their night sky, bringing radiance and magic to their darkness.
Oh, cruel fate! she lamented, finishing the last of her cake and licking the few crumbs that had escaped her from the plate. Forced to choose between a life of luxury and the worship she deserved! The dilemma was so painful she felt she should be crying.
She waited for the tears. They stubbornly refused to come.
She was probably just dehydrated from a long day of performing, she decided. After all, she was such a hard worker – probably the most industrious pony in all of Equestria, come to think of it.
The streets were dark when she finally left the bistro, the ornate gas lamps lining the streets just starting to light for the evening. The steady hum of ponies at work began to give way to the sounds of Canterlot’s nightlife – laughter, music and singing, and ponies shouting greetings to friends.
All the walk back to the hotel she pondered her dilemma. Stay and be comfortable but unfulfilled, or abandon Canterlot and go on the road again to be recognized as the Great and Powerful Trixie?
She was still thinking when she came to a particularly wide intersection, filled with fountains and trees and ponies playing with their friends. High above, unblocked by the buildings, loomed the alabaster towers of Canterlot Keep, home to Celestia and seat of her rule.
Perhaps, Trixie thought to herself, There is a third way. She tended to view the world in terms of black and white, and the thought of a third way startled her badly.
There were unicorns up there who had all the things she wanted, she realized. Members of Celestia’s court, rich beyond belief, honored and treated wherever they went.
And what had those aristocrats done to deserve such fortune? Nothing! She fumed at the injustice. She should be up there, as an honored member of the court – no, as the court magician!
She spent a few moments fantasizing about her new life in Celestia’s court. Other ponies were starting to give her odd looks when she finally snapped back to the present. With a blush she continued on her way.
***
Some members of Celestia’s court were lucky – that is, they were born into their positions. The unpopular Prince Blueblood, heir to a long line of unicorn nobility that had been among the first to rally behind Princess Celestia’s rule, was one such individual. His ancestors had done some brave and dangerous things, and generations later he reaped the benefit of Celestia’s gratitude. Barring some unforeseen genealogical discovery, this path to the court wasn’t in the cards for Trixie.
Most members of the court, however, earned their spot. Ministers, officials, officers, recorders and guards – even the servants were chosen for their positions based on merit and experience. This had the effect of creating a well-run and competent government, with Celestia herself mostly performing ceremonial duties, or occasionally making significant decisions that couldn’t be delegated. If the aristocrats sometimes complained that they had no real power, well, no system was perfect.
This second path was also unlikely at the moment. Although she was certainly the most qualified pony for the job of court magician, her recent record was… checkered, she decided delicately. It was unlikely she’d get a hoof in the door with her current resume if she tried applying for any court positions through the normal channels.
Fortunately, there were other ways to insinuate oneself into the halls of power. The princess was a mare of the people – she tried to be away from the court as often as possible, either out in Canterlot or visiting the distant parts of Equestria. When she couldn’t get away from Canterlot the court was often in open session, where any pony with a grievance or petition could appear before her and make their case. It was part of what made her such a popular monarch.
It was also terribly boring, Trixie had been informed. Although the issue of watering rights along the Split Hide River south of Hoofington might be of importance to farmers who trekked all the way to Canterlot to make their case before the princess, a day full of such presentations could be difficult to stomach. Even Celestia, with the literal patience of a god, sometimes grew tired of the proceedings.
Which was where the Great and Powerful Trixie came in.
“Name?” asked a middle-aged unicorn with a white coat, deep blue mane, and an air of utter and complete boredom that must have taken years to perfect. She was seated behind an imposingly large desk in the Hall of Petitioners (more of a room, really), writing down the particulars of everypony who had arrived that day to appear before the princess. Trixie was toward the end of the line, having decided that she had better things to do with her time than wait in a queue all day.
“The Great and Powerful Trixie!” she declared in her most imposing stage voice. The other petitioners turned to her in curiosity and surprise.
“Name,” the clerk repeated. It was not a question this time.
She shrunk slightly, stung. “Ah, Trixie will do, for paperwork purposes.”
The white unicorn squinted at her over the top of rather old-fashioned reading glasses. “That’s your full and true name, dearie?”
“It’s what I’m known as, yes!”
“Did I ask what you were known as?”
Trixie spluttered. She had half a mind to teach this insignificant paper-pusher some respect, but prudence came galloping to the rescue. Realizing this mare held the keys to her meeting with Celestia, she clenched her teeth and forced a smile onto her face.
“’Beatrice’ will do,” she said, politely.
“See? That wasn’t so hard.” The clerk’s quill scratched across the paper, levitated by her magic. “Complaint or petition?”
“Trixie has neither a complaint nor a petition!” she said, slipping back into her stage voice. “She has heard that Her Majesty is tired of these simple proceedings, and has come to delight and amaze the court with spectacular feats of magic!”
The clerk raised an eyebrow, the first actual change in facial expression Trixie had seen on her. “Really? Well, that’s different at least,” she said. Her quill made a few more scratches on the parchment. “I might step in to see that. This job does get a bit dull at times.”
Trixie gave her another smile, and then moved to wait in a comfortably stuffed arm chair, mentally reviewing her upcoming routine.
***
One fortunate consequence of being last in line among the petitioners was that Trixie was also the last to appear before the court. She was the closing act of the day, which was exactly how she liked it.
For days she had been preparing a carefully calibrated routine, combining equal parts dance and illusion. It was among the most sophisticated she had ever produced, designed to appeal to the refined tastes of the court, who valued skill and originality over sheer power and flashiness. It would serve as an appropriate introduction for her long-term stay.
The large double-doors leading to the throne room cracked open, and the unicorn clerk she had given her name to poked her head through the door. “Beatrice, you’re up.”
Trixie resisted the urge to correct her name. She hopped to her feet, checked to make sure her hat and cape were sitting correctly, and trotted through the doors.
The Court of the Sun Princess had a tendency to overwhelm ponies the first time they saw it. One of the largest enclosed spaces in Equestria, it had been the center of Celestia’s reign for over a millennium, and the years of authority and power had sunk into the very stones of the floors. Narrow windows, stretching dozens of feet up the stone walls, looked out both sides of the room onto the rising and setting suns and the city a thousand feet below. White marble flagstones, polished until they seemed to shine with their own light, clinked beneath the hooves of hundreds of ponies, crowding on either side of a red carpet that ran the length of the court. Overhead the vaulted ceiling had been decorated with suns and moons, stars and comets, and all the colors of the sky.
The red carpet beneath Trixie’s feet led from the double doors behind her all the way to the far end of the court. To her left and right ponies milled about, waiting for the court to end and the evening’s festivities to begin. She reached the end of the red carpet, knelt on the golden sunburst icon conveniently stitched there, and bowed.
Celestia, Princess of Equestria, Bearer of the Sun, The First Light of Dawn, looked down at the blue unicorn with the gentle smile she nearly always wore. To her side her majordomo, a brown earth pony with a white shield cutie mark, stomped his hoof three times on the floor, calling the room to silence.
“Presenting the unicorn Beatrice!” he announced. His voice rang effortlessly though the massive hall.
“Rise, Trixie,” Celestia said. Her words, though spoken softly, were heard by every pony in the hall. “I understand you are here to entertain us?”
Trixie came to her feet, her heart beating faster as it always did before performing. The lights seemed brighter, every sound seemed sharper – the world itself never felt more alive than when she was standing before an audience.
“The Great and Powerful Trixie is honored to appear before her majesty, to entertain the court with feats of spectacular magic!” She imitated Celestia’s voice trick, her words filling the ears of every pony present. She was about to launch into her routine when a tiny, niggling question appeared in her mind. Foolishly, she spoke it aloud.
“Er, if it pleases your majesty… how did you know Trixie’s name?” she asked.
Celestia tilted her head slightly, the gentle smile never leaving her face. “It is my business to know all my subjects,” she said quietly, her words for Trixie alone. “But in your case, I had some help.” A piece of parchment, resting on a stand by the princess’s side, suddenly glowed and floated into the air.
“A dear student of mine wrote to me about you, not so long ago,” she continued. “A blue unicorn with a magic wand cutie mark, who taught her a valuable lesson about friendship.”
The floor seemed to drop out from beneath Trixie. The edges of her vision went grey, and a rushing sound filled her ears. For a moment she saw herself back in Ponyville, cowering before the Ursa Minor, waiting for the claw to fall and swat her like an insect.
“Now then,” Celestia said, rolling the parchment back up and placing it on the stand beside her. “The floor is yours, Trixie.” She gave the unicorn a kind smile.
Everything Trixie had rehearsed fled from her mind. Her routine, the spells, her speech, even her reason for being in the court were all gone in an instant. Long seconds dragged on while hundreds of ponies stared at her.
Most mares wouldn’t have recovered in time, but Trixie wasn’t most mares. She was a Great and Powerful mare, and before the audience could realize how deeply Celestia’s words had cut, her performer’s instinct kicked in.
“Behold!” she cried, rearing onto her back legs. Reflex took over, and her mind defaulted to the standard performance she gave on her stage. It wasn’t as appropriate for the court as the elaborate dance routine she had been rehearsing, but it was better than standing in front of Celestia like a frightened filly. She had done this performance hundreds of times; she could do it in her sleep.
Her horn glowed and every light in the court vanished, replaced by a suffocating darkness broken by a magical spotlight with her at its center. Ponies gasped in surprise, and then crowded forward, eager for a closer view.
“Witness the spectacular magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie!” She spun in place, hooves splayed, as her magic replaced the darkness with a dozen shifting landscapes – a burning desert, a somber forest shrouded in fog, a spectacular mountain crested with snow. The crowd ooh’d and aah’d appropriately.
“Gasp in awe at her power!” Still going through her automatic routine, she waved a hoof over her head, setting off a chain of brilliant blue and silver fireworks that perfectly matched her coat and mane.
At this point Trixie noticed several things simultaneously, all of them bad.
First, she remembered why she had tried to develop a new routine specifically for the court.
Second, she realized the court, despite her magical illusions, was an indoor venue. Fireworks were highly inappropriate for indoor use.
Finally, she was granted a new insight into pony psychology. Although not normally high-strung creatures, ponies could be startled by loud, unexpected noises and explosions.
The fireworks detonated just below the roof of the court, slamming the crowd below with dozens of thunderous claps that shook the walls and knocked many off their hooves. The soaring glass windows on either side of Trixie exploded outwards in a rain of shards that tumbled hundreds of feet down the mountainside. An acrid, burning smoke instantly filled the room, stinging eyes and snouts and generally contributing to the chaos as the entire crowd began screaming and stampeding for the exits.
At the front of the hall, still lit by her silly spotlight, the Great and Powerful Trixie stood frozen with her hoof above her head, a look of shock and horror slowly dawning on her face. Only Celestia seemed unperturbed by the debacle as she gazed up at the scorched ceiling.
Well, Celestia and a small herd of royal guard ponies, who leapt from the wings of the hall and tackled Trixie to the ground.
***
Trixie was, once again, an unhappy pony.
She was no longer in chains, which was an improvement. The guard ponies had quickly concluded the disastrous performance was an accident after she hadn’t been able to stop crying for nearly an hour. They were about to throw her out of the keep when the furious majordomo arrived at the guard station where they were holding her.
A quick accounting of damages to the Court of the Sun Princess was provided to Trixie. Incinerated tapestries, shattered windows, blasted frescoes and smoke damage were all neatly listed on a sheet of parchment. Lacking the means to repay the court, she was turned over to the kitchen staff to work off her debt, or labor for one month, whichever came first.
And so the Great and Powerful Trixie, master magician and performer, found herself washing dishes in the Canterlot Keep kitchen. She wasn’t allowed to use her magic – like a common dirt pony, she used her hooves to scrub and rinse and dry. It was an odd combination of humiliation and irony: she had managed to join the court after all, though not in a position she wanted.
The third night of her new career found Trixie alone in the kitchens. The final meal had long since been served and the guests gone to bed, and the Keep settled into the quiet routines of the evening. She was racking the last of the dishes when she heard a set of quiet hoofbeats behind her.
“Excuse me,” came a soft, almost timid voice. “Are you the Great and Powerful Trixie?”
Trixie blushed, refusing to turn around. She hadn’t heard that name in days. An uncomfortable silence filled the kitchen, which she finally broke: “Yes, I am Trixie.”
The hoofbeats came closer. “I just wanted to say that was an amazing performance the other night.”
Trixie hated being mocked. She scowled and spun around, ready to give the pony a piece of her mind.
The dark blue unicorn in front of her took a tentative step back, startled by the sudden move. A pair of large wings beat nervously at the air before settling back to her side. Not a unicorn – an alicorn.
Trixie realized she was staring and quickly lowered her head. There were only two alicorns in Equestria, and this clearly wasn’t Celestia. “Princess Luna, forgive me,” she said. “I didn’t realize it was you.”
“That’s quite alright,” the soft, high voice said. Trixie felt a hoof beneath her chin, tilting her head up. “Please be at ease. I am not my sister.”
The alicorn’s touch was gentle as moonlight. A feeling of deep peace filled Trixie’s troubled soul, and displaced the grievance and shame of the past few days. The world around her seemed softer, its harsh lights dimmed and its sharp edges dulled by the power of the night. Her eyes closed, and for a moment she would not have regretted never opening them again.
Then the hoof was gone, and the cruel world rushed back to fill its place. She opened her eyes to see the inquisitive face of Equestria’s second princess just inches away.
Trixie gulped. “Thank you for your kind words, your majesty.”
“Please, call me Luna.” The alicorn gave her a slight smile, and looked for a moment almost like her sister, despite being her complete opposite. “I was sorry to hear you were arrested after the performance.”
A bit of the bitterness of the past hour returned to Trixie’s heart. “That was hardly a performance,” she said, forcing the words between her clenched teeth. “That was just the opening for a crude, flashy act Trixie gives to peasants. Trixie had an exquisite, breathtaking performance planned for the court!” She sighed. “But she forgot herself, and gave that foolish disaster instead.”
Luna stepped around her, her gaze fixed on the unicorn. “Nevertheless, it was impressive. Celestia told me she hasn’t had that much fun at the court in years.”
Trixie’s head lifted slightly, buoyed by the praise. “Really?”
Luna nodded. “Oh yes. Celestia and I are very powerful, but we lack the control and finesse of the greatest unicorn magicians. We are like hurricanes,” she said as she fixed her large eyes on Trixie, “but you are like a glass-blower. Only one of us creates art.”
Trixie stared at the alicorn, unable to form a reply. Luna giggled at the unicorn’s state, and then cantered toward the exit.
“It was good to meet you, Trixie,” she said over her shoulder. “I’m sure I will see you again.”
***
The Canterlot gardens were scarcely populated at night. A few ponies wandered the paths, nodding to their princess as they passed. Lamps lit the castle grounds, though the light of the full moon was bright enough to see by.
“So what possessed you to want to perform before the court?” Luna asked. They had stopped by one of the many fountains scattered around the gardens. A stone pegasus, mortally wounded by a spear, stretched a hoof to the sky; from its wounds a steady trickle of water flowed into a wide basin. Tiny fish, barely visible in the moonlight, darted through the waters in the pool.
Trixie dipped the tip of her hoof in the water, sending the tiny fish scattering. “I thought if I impressed the princess, she might offer me a position as court magician,” she said. She had long since stopped using the third-person to describe herself around Luna.
The alicorn giggled, the sound filling the garden like silver bells. “Silly unicorn,” she said. “There hasn’t been a court magician in centuries. I’ve been gone for a thousand years and even I know that.”
Trixie scowled at the darkness, and gave her friend a gentle shove with her shoulder. “I wanted to be recognized,” she said. “What good is being a magician if no one cares? If all you do is earn enough bits to survive?”
“There are many ponies who seem happy without being rich or great,” the princess replied. “The world would be a very sad place if only the great and powerful were happy.”
Trixie frowned, dropping her hoof on the edge of the fountain with a loud clop. “Trixie is not most ponies,” she said. She looked up at the night sky, her features softening slightly. “Ever since I got my cutie mark I’ve known I was different. Even as a filly I could perform magic like few other unicorns. But it meant nothing -- it means nothing unless the world recognizes it.”
Luna extended a wing, draping it over the unicorn like a blanket. “And do you still believe that?”
Trixie was silent for a while. Finally she nodded, a stern cast settling on her features. “Yes.”
They were silent a while longer.
“Trixie,” Luna finally said, “being great and being happy are not the same.”
“Yes they are!” she snapped. “The Great and Powerful Trixie was happy! I was happy! Now look at me!” She tore away from the alicorn before she could reply.
“I was adored!” she continued, speaking to the empty night, refusing to look at Luna. “Now I wash dishes, a dozen yards from the center of the court where I should be standing!”
“Trixie…” Luna tried to break in.
“This is not right!” she shouted. Her horn started to glow. “How can they do this to me? To Trixie!”
“Trixie please calm down.”
“Trixie will not calm down!” Flecks of foam flew from her muzzle as she shouted. The glow from her horn brightened as her magic leaked out, escaping her control. “Trixie asks… no, Trixie demands her rightful due!”
The silver light from her horn washed over the garden, overpowering the moon and lanterns. The grass beneath their hooves began to bend in an unseen wind, and the trees rustled overhead. The stone pegasus atop the fountain creaked, then slowly moved, its head turning to stare at the raging unicorn.
“ENOUGH!” Luna shouted. The sudden outburst stunned Trixie, who had never heard Luna raise her voice. The light surrounding her horn went out like a snuffed candle.
She sat down hard, her head bowed. After a long minute she found her voice.
“I’m sorry, Luna,” she said softly. “I just never imagined things ending up like this.” She sniffled.
Luna sighed, and walked over to the unicorn. “Trixie, take it from someone who learned the hard way. It is better to be a good pony than a great pony.” She gave Trixie a friendly nuzzle, and then tugged her to her hooves. “Come on, it’s late. Let’s get you to bed.”
Together they walked back to the castle.
***
“Only a few days left in the kitchen. Have you decided what you’re going to do next?”
Trixie sighed. They were out in the garden’s again, Luna’s favorite part of the castle. “I won’t be staying in the kitchen,” she said. “Aside from that, I haven’t given it much thought.”
“You could stay in Canterlot.”
“I probably will, for a while at least.” Luna visibly perked up as Trixie spoke. “Until I decide what to do next.”
Luna nodded, and the two resumed watching the gardens in silence. Eventually Luna spoke.
“Bit for your thoughts?”
“Oh, just wondering how some of this castle was built,” Trixie admitted. “There’s no other place in the world like it. I can’t imagine the magic it took to construct.”
“Oh, we cheated a bit.” Luna said, startling the unicorn. Sometimes Trixie forgot how old her friend was. “It would’ve taken decades to build using just earth pony muscle, or pegasus wings, or unicorn magic. Fortunately we had some lenses to help things along.”
Trixie blinked at the alicorn, completely lost. “Lenses? Like, telescope lenses?”
Luna shook her head. “It’s just a name. Lenses are magical artifacts that can focus a unicorn’s power, making them stronger at certain tasks. Like a lens focuses light, except they can look like almost anything. The magic wand on your cutie mark is a type of lens.”
Trixie stared at her flank in surprise. Wands had long been a part of pony folklore, but she’d never known they were real.
“Do they still exist?”
Luna tilted her head, as if surprised by the question. “I’m honestly not sure. They were rare when I was banished, but I haven’t seen any since my return, except for Celestia’s. I wonder if the secret of their creation was lost.”
Trixie deflated. It was like being given a present for your birthday, and opening it to find a saddle instead of a toy. Then she parsed the rest of Luna’s answer.
“Wait… Celestia’s?”
Luna nodded. “That gold torc she always wears is a lens. I’m not sure what its function is, but it’s definitely the most powerful I’ve ever encountered.”
Their conversation drifted onward, but for the rest of the night Trixie found her mind wandering back to lenses, and the golden torc ever around Celestia’s neck.
|
Cold in Gardez
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1001
| 4 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
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A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
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complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
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teen
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2011-09-25T17:09:51+00:00
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2011-09-25T17:09:51+00:00
| 4,286 |
Ponyville was not far from Canterlot by most measures. Twilight Sparkle had made the flight in a few hours in a hot air balloon during her first visit to the town. A fast pegasus could fly there in 30 minutes if the winds were good. Even the slowest method of travel – by hoof – took less than half a day if you kept a quick pace.
Twilight knew all this intuitively. She had spent the previous evening meticulously planning for their trip, making checklists, packing supplies, consulting maps and checking with the weather patrol for the day’s forecast. She very easily could have estimated, down to the minute, when they would arrive in Canterlot.
And yet, she pondered, travelling with Rainbow Dash somehow made the trip seem twice as long.
“Ugh, can’t you two walk any faster?” the cyan pegasus said, floating alongside them with her forelegs crossed over her chest. “Celestia’s going to be old by the time we get there.”
Twilight bit back the reply she wanted to give the pegasus. After all, Rainbow Dash was her friend and guest on this trip. Getting snippy wouldn’t help the situation.
“Celestia is already old, Dash,” she said instead. “Today is a travel day. We are exactly on time.”
“You made me get up early for this!”
“Ten in the morning is not early, Dash.” She and Applejack had stopped by Dash’s cloud home on the way out of town, eventually waking her with their combined shouts.
“C’mon Dash, bit of a walk never hurt anypony,” Applejack said. She seemed immune to the pegasus’s complaints. “You can fly around if you want. I doubt Twilight and I will git too far away from ya.”
No sooner said than done. She snapped her wings down with a sharp clap, instantly lifting a dozen feet into the air, and then sped off like an arrow. Moments later she was a tiny blue dot starting a wide turn at the edges of their vision, streaking toward a bank of clouds in the distance.
“Not the type for a leisurely stroll, I reckon,” Applejack said, adjusting her Stetson hat. “You alright, Twi?”
Twilight smiled at her friend. “Just fine, AJ. This is going to be a wonderful trip, even if some ponies are a bit impatient.”
“So what’s it like, the Summer Sun Celebration? Ah’ve only seen the one, and it didn’t end so well.”
The unicorn tossed her head, refusing to be discouraged by thoughts of last year’s debacle. “Normally Nightmare Moon doesn’t escape and attempt to take over Equestria,” she said. “That was, uh, special.”
Applejack chuckled. “It ended fer the best,” she said. “Say, why was it in Ponyville in the first place? I thought it was always held in Canterlot?”
“It used to be, until about 50 years ago. Celestia decided to hold it in difference cities every fourth year. Last year just happened to be Ponyville’s year.”
Applejack gave her a sidelong glance. “Doesn’t that seem a mite convenient?” she asked, her voice filled with doubt. “It just happened to be in Ponyville, which just happened to be next to the Everfree Forest and the Elements of Harmony?”
Twilight shrugged. She’d already given the matter many hours of thought, and short of asking the princess herself there was no way to know how much of last year’s events had been arranged in advance. It wasn’t unreasonable to expect a thousand-year-old sun goddess to make complicated plans.
“Like you said, AJ, it ended for the best.” She let out a sigh, a dreamy smile coming over her face. “Oh, but you have to see it in Canterlot! Imagine thousands of ponies, all gathered to see her raise the sun for the longest day of the year. It’s so beautiful.”
“Welp, as long as we get good seats.”
The two continued down the road in comfortable silence. When they reached the outskirts of Canterlot that evening Rainbow Dash was waiting for them, asleep on a low cloud on the side of the path.
***
Luna was, as usual, waiting for Trixie when the kitchen staff released her for the evening. They exchanged a friendly nuzzle like they were sisters, ignoring the odd looks and whispers from the other ponies.
“So, staying up all night for the celebration?” Luna asked. It was traditional for ponies to stay awake the night before the Summer Sun Celebration, waiting for the dawn of the longest day of the year. Long naps were also a traditional part of the festivities, usually observed a few hours later.
“Only for a few hours,” Trixie answered. “Some of us have jobs, you know.” She gave the princess a friendly jab with her elbow as they walked to add some levity to her words.
Luna pantomimed a grievous injury, clutching her hoof to her side. “Assaulting a member of the royal blood!” she said with mock outrage. “A year’s duty in the kitchens!”
“That’s all? What can I get for five years in the kitchen?”
“Hm…” Luna paused, rubbing her chin with a hoof. “Contemplating hard crime now, are we? Well, not that I would know, but five years sounds like a suitable punishment for despoiling a princess’s virtue.”
Trixie puzzled over that for a moment, and then spluttered. Ahead of her the princess giggled and took off running to the gardens.
When Trixie caught up the last light of evening was fading in the west, filling the gardens with a soft golden glow. The alicorn was sitting and staring at the setting sun with wide eyes as Trixie walked up beside her.
“The problem with long days is short nights,” Luna said quietly. “Before I was banished I could stay up during the day if I wanted to. Now, unless I’m at her side I can barely rise an hour before sunset, or stay awake an hour after sunrise. I am tethered to the night.”
Trixie frowned at the sad tone in her friend’s voice. “That doesn’t seem fair. I see Celestia all the time after the sun sets.”
“She’s older, more powerful,” Luna replied. “She says that as I get used to this new body I’ll be able to do the same, but it might take a few years. Decades, maybe.”
What could a scullery maid say to that? “I’m sorry,” she finally offered, the only words that seemed appropriate.
Luna shrugged, her wings opening and closing silently. “Don’t be. It’s a small price to pay for being free of Nightmare Moon.”
Around them the gentle glow of twilight slowly faded, yellows giving way to reds and blues as the gloom of night embraced the world. Luna inhaled deeply, her eyes wide and shining as the encroaching dusk empowered her. The clock tower in the town below chimed out the time, nine faint rings barely audible in the mountaintop castle.
“Bit for your thoughts?” Trixie asked, in what had become a game for the two.
Luna was silent for a moment before turning to the unicorn with a smile. “Just thinking about tonight. Celestia asked me to host the celebration.”
Trixie blinked. “She asked you to host the Summer Sun Celebration? That seems a bit…” she struggled to find the right word. “Counterintuitive?”
Luna stood and walked forward a few paces, draping her forelegs over a railing that overlooked a lower section of the garden. “Long ago it would have been,” she said. “Before I was banished there was no celebration the night before the longest day of the year. It wasn’t until hundreds of years after I was gone that ponies finally started to celebrate the night.”
Trixie joined her friend at the rail, having to stretch a bit to match the taller pony. Although not yet as large as her sister, Luna had grown substantially in the twelve months since being released by the Elements of Harmony, to the point that only the tallest of stallions looked down on her.
“I think she wants me to feel welcomed,” Luna continued. “That even though this is her day I am still a part of it.”
They were silent for a while. Behind them the usual sounds of the castle in the evening were gradually replaced by music and the hum of conversation as the first guests arrived.
“I think that’s your cue,” Trixie said, turning to listen to the nascent party.
“It is. Feel like accompanying me for a bit?”
“As long as I don’t have to perform any tricks. I’m not sure I could stand another month in the kitchens.”
Luna gave the unicorn a friendly head butt, careful not to use her horn, then giggled and raced to the castle. Trixie followed at a more sedate pace, the first smile of the evening lifting up the corners of her mouth.
***
Luna was in the middle of an animated conversation with her sister when Trixie found her. The indigo alicorn was bouncing with excitement, a foalish grin on her face, while Celestia looked down with the same gentle smile she always seemed to wear.
“…and after midnight we’ll serve the second banquet, right before the Wonderbolts start their performance!” she caught the younger princess saying. Trixie had known about the various feasts being prepared – she had helped make them – but that was the first she’d heard of the Wonderbolts demonstration. She stopped a discrete distance away, not wanting to intrude on the royal conversation.
Luna would have none of it, though. As soon as she spied the unicorn she darted over, grabbing Trixie’s silver mane in her mouth and dragging her back to the sun princess.
“Tia! You remember, Trixie, don’t you?” Luna said. “She gave that wonderful performance last month that everypony’s still talking about.” Next to her Trixie blushed furiously and attempted to sink into the floor.
“I could hardly forget,” Celestia said, turning to face the embarrassed pony. She lowered her head so they were practically eye-to-eye. “I’m sorry we’ve had to keep you in the kitchens for so long, but my majordomo threatened to revolt if we didn’t find some way to recoup the repair costs.” All three glanced up at the freshly painted ceiling.
“Trixie is, ah, that is, I am just happy no one was hurt,” Trixie managed to reply, barely able to keep herself from bolting out the room. “And I’ll be out of the kitchens soon enough anyway.”
“Well, I hope your time with us hasn’t been an entirely negative experience,” she said, giving Luna a brief, sidelong glance.
“Ah, not entirely negative,” Trixie allowed, ducking her head.
Celestia rose back to her full height, covering her mouth with a hoof as she laughed. “So precious,” she said, and then turned to her sister. “Walk with me a moment, Luna?” The two trotted off, chatting quietly and leaving Trixie to digest what had just occurred.
***
“We’re not s’pposed ta be wearin’ a fancy dress for this, are we?” Applejack asked, staring up at the tall gates of Canterlot Keep. The last time the three had passed through had been the Grand Galloping Gala, for which fancy dresses were considered de rigueur.
“No, this is strictly informal,” Twilight Sparkle answered. “The Summer Sun Celebration was started by earth ponies, who live by the turning of the seasons and had reason to be thankful for the arrival of summer. The Gala, of course, was started by unicorns, who have always been more inclined to--" her history lesson was mercifully interrupted by a hyperventilating Rainbow Dash.
“Look! Look! AJ look!” she squealed, half tackling the orange earth pony. “It’s the Wonderbolts! They must be performing tonight!” She pointed with both hooves toward one of the nearby gardens where, sure enough, a trio of costumed pegasus ponies were chatting amiably with guests. The largest, a blue stallion with a winged lightning bolt cutie mark, spied the frantically gesticulating Rainbow Dash and waved.
“Ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh! AJ, he waved at me! Soarin waved at me!” She squished her cheeks together with her hooves, eyes wide as dinner plates, looking for all the world like a love-struck filly. Twilight was almost embarrassed just to be seen next to her.
“Ayup, he sure did,” Applejack drawled. “Why doncha go say hello? Don’t let him do any sweet talkin’ tho--" She didn’t get to finish her thought; the rainbow pegasus practically teleported over to her idol in a multi-colored blur.
Applejack sighed. “That one’s gonna git her heart broken, I jus know it.”
“Aw, I think it’s sweet,” Twilight said. “Besides, Soarin seems like a nice enough pony.”
“Mhm, nice an’ clueless. I bet he’s left a trail of cryin’ fillies all over Equestria without even realizin’ it.”
Twilight giggled. “Applejack, I had no idea you were such a cynical and calloused soul! So wise in the ways of the world, and yet so young!” She pawed at the ground, trying desperately not to snort with laughter.
Never one to take offense easily, Applejack stuck her snout in the air. “Ah know trouble when ah see it,” she pronounced.
Twilight recovered her poise, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye. “Rainbow Dash is a big filly, AJ. I’m sure she’ll be fine. Come on, I bet the princess is somewhere inside.”
A princess was indeed inside, though not the one they were expecting. Atop the main staircase just inside the gates, politely greeting ponies as they arrived, was Princess Luna. She spotted the two, excused herself from a small crowd of admirers, and trotted down to meet them.
They each dropped to a knee, lowering their heads in supplication. Luna quickly tugged them to their feet.
“Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, welcome to the Summer Sun pre-Celebration,” she said lightly. “And please, there is no need to bow, especially you. I am not my sister.”
Twilight looked up at the princess. She seemed much taller than when they had last met, almost exactly a year before. Soon, she guessed, Luna would be nearly the same size as Celestia, and equally as powerful.
That was an unsettling thought. She did her best to push it out of her mind, at least for the evening.
“Princess Luna, it’s good to see you again,” Twilight said. “I have to admit I didn’t expect you to be here.”
“Well, Celestia asked, and how could I say no to her?” Luna said. “She’s done a lot for me in the past year. This is a small way of repaying her kindness.”
“That’s mighty kind of ya,” Applejack said. “I should bring you to meet Apple Bloom, maybe teach her to listen to her big sister.”
“I can’t promise any magic,” Luna said. “Or can I? No, no, that wouldn’t be ethical. Still, I would love to visit Ponyville again.” She paused, glancing between the two of them. “Speaking of Ponyville, did the rest of the Elements come with you?”
“Rainbow Dash is outside with the Wonderbolts,” Twilight said. “Everyone else had, uh, conflicts with their schedules.” Or conflicts with other ponies, she thought to herself, an image of Rarity viciously trampling Prince Blueblood springing unbidden into her mind.
“That’s fine,” Luna replied. “As long as you all come to the next Grand Galloping Gala!” She didn’t notice the two suddenly going pale beneath their coats.
“Oh, uh, absolutely!” Applejack said, a strained smile on her face.
“Wouldn’t miss it!” Twilight added.
Luna smiled and swept them both into a hug, her wings wrapping around to embrace the two. “I’m so glad you could make it tonight. Tia’s inside and I know she’ll be glad to see you again.”
At the mention of her mentor Twilight perked up, straining to see over Luna’s shoulder. Applejack thanked the princess, and together the two ventured into the keep, leaving Luna behind to continue her greetings.
***
Trixie wandered through the party with practiced ease, submersing herself in the growing crowd of ponies. Some recognized her from her disastrous court performance, but rather than ridiculing her like she feared, they seemed either awed or slightly afraid. A few of the braver stallions attempted to strike up conversations with her, but these she deflected with practiced ease. She wasn’t interested in making new friends at the moment.
A small chamber orchestra was set up near the head of the hall, providing some light music to keep the crowd entertained. In front of the orchestra a dance floor had been cleared, but so far no pony was brave enough to put it to use. A serious-looking mare with a charcoal coat and treble clef cutie mark led the ensemble in a slow waltz, deftly wielding a bow across a large contra-bass taller than most ponies.
Still no takers on the dance floor, Trixie noted; perhaps later she would offer a demonstration. She briefly wondered if Luna knew how to dance.
The quiet hum of the party became a louder buzz behind her. Turning, she saw Celestia towering over a small crowd of ponies, engaging them in casual conversations as she circulated around the hall. More ponies flocked toward the princess, orbiting her like planets around a sun.
Trixie moved against the flow, taking up a station near a well-stocked buffet table. She didn’t have anything against Celestia, but she needed some more time to think before confronting that gentle smile and probing gaze again.
Still, she found her gaze occasionally wandering back to the monarch, to her faintly glowing mane, to her white coat tinted with the barest hint of pink, but most of all to the golden torc resting around her neck.
***
“Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student! I’m so glad you and your friend could join us tonight.”
Twilight and Applejack bowed for the second time that evening. Even as Applejack came to her feet Twilight had already bounded forward, pressing herself against the princess’s massive chest. Celestia lowered her head to give her student a friendly nuzzle, and they stood back, both smiling.
The part of Twilight that had never grown up wanted to climb onto Celestia’s back and ride around with her for the rest of the evening, like she had as a filly. Fortunately for all present (but mostly Applejack) she managed to restrain herself, making do with conversation instead.
“Thank you for inviting us, Princess,” she said. “It’s always a pleasure to return to Canterlot.”
“Indeed. Things are always more interesting with you and your friends around. Especially formal occasions.”
Memories of the Gala came flooding back. Twilight stammered while Applejack blushed. Desperate for a new subject, Twilight cast her gaze around the room, eventually settling on the ceiling.
“Say! Aren’t those new frescoes up there?” she asked. “Those look new and completely unrelated to the Gala.”
Celestia peered up at the ceiling, her snout easily twice as high off the floor as the next tallest pony in the room. When she looked back down there was an unusual twinkle in her eye.
“Oh, I thought it was time for some redecorating,” the alicorn said. “In fact, we redid most of the hall about a month ago. I’m very happy with how it turned out.” Her words carried a sense of hidden laughter, though Twilight couldn’t imagine what was so funny about redecorating.
“We saw Luna out front,” Applejack chimed in. “That was very nice of yer majesty to make her the host tonight.”
Celestia’s smile widened as she looked toward the foyer and her sister. “She’s grown so much in the past year. I’m starting to get my sister back, thanks to you two and your friends.” She turned back to the two ponies, and leaned forward to whisper: “Can you two keep a secret?”
They nodded together, confused but willing. Celestia’s massive wings stretched out and wrapped around them, forming a snug, feathery cocoon that sealed off the rest of the party.
“I’m afraid I’ve been meddling a bit,” the princess confided, her eyes hooded with glee and satisfaction. “When you get to be my age, well, it comes naturally.”
Twilight thought back to some of the more exciting incidents of the past year, many of which had Celestia’s stamp on them. The dragon she asked them to evict; the gala she used them to invigorate; the dying phoenix she introduced to an animal lover.
“I had no idea,” Twilight said, diplomatically. Applejack looked like she was about to object until Twilight’s hoof found the side of her leg.
“She’s finally coming out of her shell,” Celestia said, just to them. “Becoming the princess Equestria needs. Little things like this ball, or a new friend I’ve arranged to live here for a while, they’re all bringing back the Luna I knew.”
The white wings retracted, folding into place against the princess’s back. She looked down at the two with her gentle smile again.
“I think I’m going to retire for the evening,” she said. “This is Luna’s night. She should have it all to herself.”
They bowed to her again. “We’ll see you in the morning, princess,” Twilight said, and stepped close for one more nuzzle.
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world, my little pony,” Celestia said. “Now, go enjoy the rest of the evening with your friends.”
***
Rainbow Dash wandered into the main ballroom with a dazed smile on her face. Although the hall was technically a no-flying zone (there were signs posted at the entrance warning pegasus ponies to stay on the ground), she didn’t hesitate for a moment to lift into the air, spying out her friends near the center of the crowd.
“AJ! Twilight!” she cried, zipping up next to them and drawing annoyed mutters from the ponies she bumped into along the way. “Soarin asked me to go flying with him later! Alone!”
Applejack rolled her eyes. “See, Twi? This is what I was talkin’ about.”
Even Twilight seemed taken aback. “That’s, um, very nice, Dash.” She paused and glanced at Applejack before turning back to the pegasus. “Do you think that’s really a good idea, though?”
“Well of course! How else am I supposed to show off my signature moves?” She jabbed her hooves at the air, making *whoosh* noises with her breath.
Twilight cringed. Applejack shook her head. Rainbow Dash noticed neither, fantasizing over the upcoming flight. Suddenly she broke out of her reverie, a startled expression on her face.
“Oh, he also asked for some pie!” she said. “See you later!” She took off toward the buffet tables, once again ignoring the no-flying signs.
“This is how it starts,” Applejack said under her breath. Twilight massaged her forehead with a hoof, already imagining the worst.
***
Trixie was still standing next to the buffet when a multi-colored blur came to a sudden stop beside her. She barely held in a startled shriek as she jumped back, bumping into the table and setting its desserts atremble. The blur resolved into a young pegasus mare, apparently oblivious to the near heart attack she had caused.
There was something familiar about the mare, Trixie thought. A garish, uncombed rainbow mane and tail clashed hideously with her cyan coat. Sleek, muscular wings slowly folded back into place as she leaned over the desert table, sniffing at the various pies on display. After a moment she noticed the unicorn staring at her. She opened her mouth to say something – probably a smart remark – then stopped.
“No way… Trixie?” The pegasus jumped back and settled into a fighting stance, her head low, wings spread wide to make her appear larger.
Trixie peered down her snout at the young mare. Something about that mane…
“Rainbow… Rainbow Flash?” she took a guess.
“Dash!” The pegasus stomped a hoof for emphasis. Her voice was rough and scratchy, as though she spent most of her time shouting. “What are you doing here? Let me guess, lied your way past the guards? Told them you were a ‘great and powerful’ magician?” Other ponies in the crowd were turning to stare at them. Conversations trailed off into whispers.
Trixie drew herself up, placed a hoof over her chest and summoned her best stage voice. “The Great and Powerful Trixie has no need to lie, little filly,” she said. “In fact, Trixie is a personal guest of none other than Princess Luna. So if you know what’s good for you—" she was interrupted by a sudden voice behind her.
“Trixie, thank goodness!” The kitchen door behind the buffet was partly open, and an older mare in servant’s garb had stuck her head out. “We need some help setting out the next course. Can you lend a hoof back here?” The head vanished back into the kitchens, the door slowly swinging shut behind it.
Dead silence. Trixie stared at the closed door and then slowly turned back to the pegasus. Rainbow Dash stared at her, confusion and puzzlement slowly fading from her face, replaced by a wide grin.
“Oh… oh this is too good…” the pegasus was starting to shake with suppressed laughter. “The Great and p-Powerful Trixie is here… ha ha… as a servant!” Her forelegs finally buckled and she fell to the floor, rolling onto her back as she laughed uncontrollably. “Bwa hahaha! A servant!” A small crowd was now staring at the spectacle, looking back and forth between Trixie and Rainbow Dash.
Trixie felt her ears and face burning. Unable to form a coherent reply, she did what she always did in the face of ridicule, the one foe she had never been able to defeat. She turned and fled, bursting through the door into the kitchen.
Rainbow Dash eventually recovered and realized the subject of her mirth had vanished. Still giggling, she got back on her hooves and, oblivious to the stares of the crowd, grabbed a particularly delicious looking apple pie with her mouth. For the third time that night she broke the no-flying rule, and soared through the hall back to the moonlit gardens.
***
One hour and a few tears later, Trixie felt ready to return to the party. If nothing else this was Luna’s special night, and she didn’t want to ruin it by acting like a silly filly.
The rainbow pegasus was nowhere to be seen when she stepped back in. Taking that as a hopeful sign, she slipped into the crowd, heading toward the dance floor. The lights overhead had dimmed in an approximation of night, with tiny flickering candles all along the walls playing the role of stars.
Somepony had apparently taken the plunge, and there were now several couples on the dance floor, moving in time with a slow waltz being played by the ensemble. Far more ponies stood on the sidelines watching than actually dancing, but she knew the floor would be crowded with bodies as the night wore on and alcohol loosened inhibitions.
Inhibitions, of course, had never held much sway over Trixie. A brief search discovered a handsome, athletic looking stallion standing by the side of the floor. She slipped up beside him and waited until a new song was about to begin, and then lightly brushed his shoulder with hers before stepping onto the dance floor.
If the stallion was startled he didn’t show it – a heartbeat later he was at her side, his tan coat and blonde mane nicely complementing her own colors (another reason she had chosen him). Without a word she extended a hoof, which he lightly touched to his own, and they began to move.
It was a simple dance, by her standards, She let him lead, stepping lightly through a quick polonaise that reminded her of the earth pony village dances she sometimes attended on the road. Her partner knew the steps well enough, but it was the extra taps and flourishes she added that drew the crowd’s attention. By the time the song finished a small open area had formed around the pair, and a few ponies even clapped their hooves in appreciation.
She exchanged a polite bow with the stallion, and turned to find another partner for the next dance. One quickly presented herself – an older ivory mare who moved with the rare grace and assurance that marked her in Trixie’s mind as a fellow performer. The ensemble struck up a moderate gavotte, and they began.
***
Many dances and partners later, Trixie reluctantly bowed off the dance floor, followed by a round of enthusiastic applause. Several stallions and not a few mares looked disappointed not to have had their chance. She felt refreshed, the incident with the crass pegasus nearly gone from her mind as she walked back to the buffet for a drink.
Shunning the alcoholic drinks, she selected a simple apple cider and turned back to the crowd. Most of the attention was still on the dance floor, but a few ponies were gathered around the foyer and the tall, dark form of Princess Luna.
She should have asked Luna to dance, she realized. Did the princess know how? What would be more enjoyable, partnering with her for a flamboyant routine to set the crowd ablaze; or slowly teaching her how to move, how to set her hooves in time with the music, how to slide her body alongside her partner?
Such thoughts would have continued more or less indefinitely, had not a quiet voice next to her drawled, “Some fancy moves there, partner.” A tall, orange mare with a ridiculously large hat was lounging against the wall. Something about the tone of her voice warned Trixie that this was not a friend.
“Just some simple country dances,” she said to the mare cautiously. “Trixie is capable of much grander performances, to be sure.”
“Ah’ve seen yer performances, Trixie,” the mare said, pushing off the wall and walking toward her. “Thought you mighta learned sumthin’, but ah can see ah was wrong ta expect anythin’ better from you.”
What was this, a reunion? Trixie took a step back, putting some space between her and the orange pony. “What do you know of Trixie?” she demanded.
“Ah know yer a liar,” the pony said, stepping forward. “Ah know all about the ‘Ursa Major’ you s’pposedly defeated. Ah know you travel from town ta town, bilkin’ ponies outta their bits.”
Around them the party rolled unabated. Their conversation was too quiet, too personal to draw more than a passing glance, for all the heat and intensity in the earth pony’s words. Trixie took another step back, her legs shaking as she recognized the mare from the same disastrous town as the rainbow pegasus.
“If there’s one thing I can’t stand, it’s lyin’,” the earth pony continued. “And yer the queen of dishonesty, Trixie. I never got ta say it before, but yer a fraud, and you should be ashamed.” The mare turned up her head and spun, disappearing back into the crowd.
The orchestra started another song, a low, somber nocturne whose melody was the night itself. Trixie sat back on her haunches, wondering if she would ever escape that damn town.
Quite some time later she found the strength to return to her hooves. There was one pony in the crowd, at least, who didn’t care about her past, who treated her like a friend. Stepping back into the crowd, she went looking for Luna.
***
“Lose your friends?” the princess asked. Luna’s smile was wider than Twilight Sparkle had ever seen on her; apparently the pre-celebration was going well.
“Not as such,” Twilight said. “Applejack went to get something to drink, and Rainbow Dash is, uh, preoccupied.”
“Preoccupied?” Luna tilted her head. Twilight tried to answer, but blushed before she could contrive another euphemism. “Oh, ‘preoccupied.’” The princess giggled, covering her mouth with a hoof. “Doing some research of her own into the magic of friendship?”
Twilight pondered. “Something like that,” she eventually allowed.
The two wandered through the crowds, enjoying the laughter and happiness around them. Luna positively glowed, looking happier than Twilight could ever recall.
“Oh, speaking of friendship, I have someone I want you to meet tomorrow,” the alicorn said. “A very good friend of mine, and someone I think you already know.”
That brought Twilight up short. All her friends lived in Ponyville – she had acquaintances from her years in Canterlot, but aside from Celestia, no one she was close to.
“Who?” she asked, genuinely curious.
“I’m not supposed to tell you yet.” Luna said. “’Tia said it would be a surprise.”
Twilight rolled her eyes. “You know, Princess Celestia certainly likes to make things more complicated than they need to be. One of these days somepony’s going to turn the tables on her.”
Luna laughed quietly, drawing curious glances from the ponies around them. “I wish that pony the best of luck. You need to get up pretty early in the morning to outsmart her.”
Their wanderings eventually took them near the dance floor. Luna glanced at it, a small smile on her face.
“Say, do you know how to dance?” she asked the smaller pony.
“I’ve read about dance theory. I’m sure the application of theory into practice is a fairly simple matter of--whoa!” she trailed off as the princess, laughing, dragged her onto the dance floor to the cheers of the crowd.
***
Trixie was an unhappy pony.
She watched them, the princess and the unicorn, from a safe distance. They were deep in conversation with each other, giggling and laughing, and far too preoccupied to notice her staring.
She recognized the purple unicorn instantly. Twilight Sparkle, the third pony from that same damned town where everything fell apart. The one who showed her up, humiliated her, took her life and stomped it into the dirt in front of everyone. Apparently they had put together a special group tour to come and humiliate Trixie.
But the unicorn wasn’t the worst of it. The worst part was seeing Luna with her, laughing and smiling as they stepped onto the dance floor.
She felt something she had never felt before. Hollow, like a giant ice cream scoop had taken out her insides. Detached, like she was viewing the world through some other pony’s eyes. Some inconsiderate soul had wrapped a thin wire around her heart, and with every beat it drew tighter, squeezing the life from her.
Every bit of happiness the last month had blessed her with evaporated. Her dreams of staying in Canterlot vanished like morning mist. Silly, foalish illusions of friendship died within her.
She turned, unnoticed, and walked out of the hall into the dark corridors beyond.
***
The rest of the keep was quiet by comparison. Only a few torches were lit at this time of night, casting isolated pools of light in the dark corridors.
As a kitchen servant she was allowed access to most of the keep. The few guards she encountered simply nodded as she passed, recognizing her from her arrest and subsequent service.
The upper levels were a different story. Although Equestria was a peaceful nation and threats to the royal family were virtually unknown, the guards in the personal quarters would not be so lax as to simply let anypony wander in, particularly at night.
Trixie, of course, was not any pony. She stopped halfway up the stairs to the royal quarters, where no one could sneak up on her, and worked her first spell of the night. Her horn glowed with a brief silver light, then suddenly snuffed out as the night’s darkness covered her like a shroud.
It was a simple trick, one she used on stage to mask her movements. At night, in a dark hallway, it was as good as being invisible.
None of the guards saw an odd shadow sweeping by. The marble beneath her hooves was absolutely silent, thanks to a simple cantrip that dampened sounds. Even the currents of air she stilled with her magic, lest a stray breeze alert the guards to something unusual.
The end of the hallway was taken up by a massive pair of golden double doors, stamped with a stylized sun. Two armored pegasus guards stood alert in front of them, oblivious to her presence even as she strode close enough to touch them. Faint sounds of music and laughter bubbled up from the party far below, the only hint of any waking life in the castle beyond the dark corridor.
Opening the doors would be impossible to mask, even for her, so she didn’t bother. She had been in the room beyond many times as a servant, delivering and collecting dishes, and it took no effort at all to form an image of the room in her mind. Her horn flashed again, invisible behind its spell, and when she opened her eyes she was no longer in the corridor.
Celestia’s personal quarters were surprisingly sparse. The goddess apparently didn’t feel the need to stuff her room with treasures, instead filling it with comfortable furniture, rows of bookcases, and tasteful paintings of scenes and ponies from Equestrian history. The anteroom she found herself in was virtually empty, decorated only with an ornate golden armillary hung from the ceiling -- a collection of concentric rings twisted into a sphere, representing the motion and locations of the heavenly bodies. If she hadn’t looked up to check for traps she would have missed it completely.
She could sense magical alarms tingling, on the verge of tripping and alerting the castle to her intrusion. Reaching out with her magic, she calmed them, muting them like vibrating strings. Although elaborately crafted, the alarm spells were ancient, and had never been designed to stop a true magician from entering.
The bedroom lay beyond a large archway, which was tall enough for the alicorn princess to stride through without having to duck her horn. The room was decorated with soft, dark colors, so unlike the sun and day she epitomized. Midnight blue drapes concealed windows; azure rugs felt soft and luxurious beneath hooves. The only artwork was a small, framed painting of the Princess Luna, so old the colors had faded and the paint cracked like dry earth.
Trixie spent several minutes in silence, going over the room and its contents. The massive bed was shrouded with translucent curtains, hiding its occupant. Next to the bed was her target, a tall wood rack on which hung a large golden torc and a pearlescent crown, both removed from their bearer for the night.
Perched atop the rack was an unwelcome surprise – a large, sleeping phoenix with its head tucked under its wing. She had mistaken the creature for a lantern when she entered, but the bird itself filled the room with a soft, mellow light similar to a candle. There was no way to remove the torc from the rack without lifting it completely over the phoenix as well.
Again, what would have been a challenge for most ponies barely caused Trixie to break a sweat. She levitated the torc delicately away from the pegs it rested on, and lifted it up the length of the rack. The phoenix didn’t even stir as she lifted the torc over it, and then across the room into her waiting mouth. It was larger than she expected, but fortunately folded along several concealed joints, and she was able to fit it into her saddlebag with some difficulty.
The next part was far harder. Walking back into the anteroom, she focused her magic on the golden armillary, insinuating her will into the fabric of its being. The sculpture shuddered and popped as she gave it a few mental twists, and with a final flash it vanished, replaced by a mirror image of Celestia’s torc. She levitated the forgery back into the bedroom, carefully sliding it onto the rack over the sleeping phoenix.
A simple imitation might fool most ponies, but probably not Celestia, and Trixie couldn’t take that chance. Her horn glowed again as she probed at the real torc in her saddlebags, letting it press against her magical senses.
It felt… heavy. Far heavier than it should. Even though she knew its mass and could carry it around without difficulty, it gave the impression of immense weight, of mountains and glaciers and deep, deep oceans.
That was unsettling to the unicorn, but her illusions were up to the task. She laid another spell on the false torc, carefully twisting it to manipulate the impressions of its wearer. When she finished she was certain that it could withstand anything but the deepest inspection by the princess, or another powerful magician.
Her prize firmly in her grasp, she turned to leave the bedroom. She paused for only a moment before teleporting back into the corridor, a single melancholy thought penetrating the fog in her mind.
Forgive me, Luna.
***
Less than an hour later Trixie was on a train heading to Appleloosa, the furthest station she could afford a ticket for. She tried convincing herself that she was elated, thrilled with her theft and the untold power the torc in her saddlebag promised. A lens, Luna had called it, perhaps the last one in all of Equestria.
And it was hers.
She tried to imagine the glory and adulation she would soon win, with the power of the lens augmenting her own magic. Who knew how great she might become? Who knew what heights she could conquer with its aid?
But for some reason her thoughts always returned to a single point, a smiling, laughing face, the only pony who had shown her kindness or friendship.
She did her best to push those thoughts out of her head. It was late and there was no celebration for her to attend in the morning. Better to get some sleep.
Her cabin was empty of other passengers, so her restless dreaming disturbed nopony else.
***
“You know, I haven’t watched Celestia do this in well over a thousand years.”
Twilight Sparkle gave Luna a curious glance. They were standing on the side of a wooden platform, so similar to the one she saw from a distance as a child. At the center of the stage a large, sun-shaped ring rose high into the air, ready to frame the rising sun as Celestia worked her magic.
“But I thought you were banished exactly a thousand years ago? That’s what the legend said,” Twilight responded with some confusion.
Luna nodded, her eyes on the frame above them. “I stopped coming many years before that. It just seemed like Celestia was trying to rub salt into my wounds, to prove how much more the ponies loved the day and summer than the night and winter.”
She paused for a moment, her gaze softening as she remembered events that had been forgotten long before Twilight’s birth. “Did you know I once held a Winter Moon Celebration? To mark the longest night of the year?”
“You mean Winter Solstice Day?” Twilight asked. “We still celebrate that. It’s one of the biggest holidays of the year, especially for foals.” She grinned, remembering the presents her parents hid around their house on solstice day. One time she had taken to telepathically dismantling the walls in her searching. After that her parents just left the presents in a large pile for her to find in the morning.
“No, Celestia started that holiday after I was gone,” Luna said. “There were no presents, no families or parties as part of my Celebration. It was just me, inviting all of ponykind to watch me raise the moon on the coldest, darkest night of the year.” She sighed. “Only one pony showed up.”
“Who?” Twilight asked, though she suspected she knew the answer. She leaned in close, resting a hoof on the princess’s shoulder.
“Celestia, of course.” Luna’s voice was soft, almost a whisper. “Even though she knew how much I resented her, she still showed up to offer her support.
“It was a terrible winter that year, Twilight, and Canterlot wasn’t like you see today, with these streets and buildings.” She took a breath, and continued. “It was just a large town outside our keep. The streets weren’t lit and nopony went out at night, especially not in such terrible weather.
“But she came,” Luna finished. “She sat in snow nearly up to her neck while I raised the moon. She said it was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen.”
The princess slumped as she recalled the memory, her head hanging below her shoulders and the tip of her horn nearly touching the platform.
“And I hated her for it.” She closed her eyes before any tears could escape. “She showed me more love on that one night than I showed her in an entire year, and I hated her for it.”
Twilight was silent. Around them the Solarium was filling with ponies; already thousands crowded close to the stage, and more streamed into the plaza from the surrounding city.
“I was such a stupid filly, Twilight.” Her words were blunt and even, with no more emotion than if she had remarked on the weather.
Nothing in Twilight’s studies of friendship had prepared her to deal with a melancholy goddess. She looked across the platform to her friends, Applejack and Rainbow Dash, but both were occupied with other, happier conversations.
“Luna,” she finally said, “I haven’t known Celestia as long as you, obviously, but she practically raised me from a filly. I think I know her pretty well. And I can tell you the only time I’ve ever seen her happier than last night at your party was the day we freed you from Nightmare Moon.”
Luna, princess of Equestria and goddess of the moon, sniffled. “Really?” she said.
Twilight nodded. “Uh huh.”
The princess sniffed again, then straightened, a weak smile on her face. “You’re a good friend, Twilight.”
She blushed. “Well, I’m learning.”
***
The rose tint of dawn was coloring the eastern sky when Celestia appeared, striding up onto the platform. She paused long enough to give her sister and Twilight Sparkle a smile, then moved to the center of the stage, just beneath the ornate sun sculpture.
The crowd was silent as Celestia gazed to the east. Although she could technically raise the sun any time she wanted, she never seemed to be in any particular rush to do so. Instead she waited, letting the sun continue on its appointed path.
Finally, as the sky whitened and the clouds began to glow with the sun’s light, she leapt into the air, her massive wings easily lifting her into the empty center of the sun sculpture. Behind her the tip of the sun peaked over the mountains, and the rays of dawn washed over her and into the wildly cheering crowds.
And then the sun princess did something Twilight had never seen. She froze in mid-air with her wings outspread, no longer flapping to keep herself aloft. For a moment she seemed to defy gravity.
But only for a moment. Before Twilight even realized something was wrong the princess plummeted back to the platform without attempting to land properly. Ponies shouted in alarm as the structure shook under their hooves, and several planks buckled and broke beneath the force of Celestia’s crash.
Luna recovered first. “TIA!” she yelled, and darted toward her sister. She pressed against the larger mare, helping her back onto her hooves.
Twilight was at her side next, her eyes wide with alarm. “Princess, are you alright?” The cheers of the crowd were beginning to die off as those ponies not on the platform realized something was happening.
The huge alicorn shook her head, as though trying to clear it. “I-I’m sorry,” she said, stumbling over her words. It was the first time Twilight had ever seen the princess in any sort of distress. “I just felt a little light-headed there for a moment.”
Luna pressed her muzzle against her sister’s neck, then drew back in alarm. “Stars, ‘Tia, you’re burning up! Why didn’t you say you were sick?”
Celestia rose to her full height, fluttering her wings to settle her feathers before relaxing them against her body. The crowd began to calm down, some of their initial alarm passing as they saw their princess recover. “I didn’t think I was, beloved sister,” she said. “Something about the sun just felt odd, something I haven’t felt in a long time…” She turned to the east, where the rising sun finally illuminated the platform itself. Celestia stood transfixed, staring at the orb as though she had never seen it before.
Twilight stepped toward her mentor. “Princess, perhaps we should go back inside and…” she trailed off. The air around the princess was beginning to shimmer, like heat rising off of hot cobblestones in the summer.
“’Tia, you’re scaring us,” Luna said, stepping up next to Twilight. Applejack and Rainbow Dash followed behind her, staring at the princess with alarm and confusion.
“No… no, this is wrong,” Celestia said, almost whispering. She stared at the sun until the smell of smoke caught her attention. A glance at her hooves revealed the wood platform beginning to smolder beneath them. She jumped back, her wings fanning out in alarm.
Twilight stumbled back with her friends. The blast of air from Celestia’s wings was like standing before an open oven. Only Luna seemed unaffected.
“What’s wrong?!” she cried, her voice starting to break. “’Tia, what’s happening?” She ignored the burning air and stepped toward her sister. The crowd began to rumble again as those closest to the stage shied away from the heat.
Tiny flames began to lick at the wood under Celestia’s hooves. She danced away but the flames followed, forming a trail of burning hoofprints around her. The air around her began to crackle ominously. After a few alarmed steps she stopped and ignored the fires, instead turning again to the sun as she realized, too late, what was happening.
She was in the middle of a city of nearly a hundred-thousand ponies. In a few minutes all of them were going to die.
There wasn’t enough time to fly away. She tore her eyes from the sun long enough to give her sister a final, aching look, and began to weave the largest spell she had ever attempted, her horn glowing like a second sun.
Twilight saw none of this. The heat pouring from Celestia’s body was like standing next to a blacksmith’s forge. She covered her eyes with her forelegs as the temperature began to spike, and felt the hairs of her coat curling as they started to burn.
There was a final flash, visible even through her clenched eyes, and suddenly the heat was gone. When she looked around, she was no longer in Canterlot.
***
When the glow of her spell faded Celestia was alone on the platform. Every living pony in Canterlot had been wrapped in her magic and sent miles away. She considered teleporting herself out of the city, but quickly discarded the idea. A blind teleport could drop her anywhere, and probably kill anyone or anything she landed next to.
The wood platform was fully engulfed in flames. A column of smoke visible throughout the city was starting to rise from the Solarium. A moment later the stage buckled beneath her hooves and collapsed.
Her thoughts, which had seemed so clear just moments ago, were beginning to unravel. The merciless rays of the sun hammered at her mind.
Teleporting all those ponies away should have been impossible, she thought absently as she kicked her way out of the ruined stage, scattering burning wood for hundreds of feet around. The spell should have taken more power than even she could wield; instead she had hardly noticed the drain.
But at least they were safe, even though she could barely remember their names now, with the sun’s brilliance drowning her thoughts. They had been important to her.
She glanced around the plaza, annoyed by the smoke pouring from the dozens of small fires she had just started. The cobblestones beneath her hooves started to glow a dull, cherry red.
She looked up at her home, the keep perched far above the city on the side of a mountain. Her horn flared, and she was gone.
***
The keep was fortunately empty when Celestia appeared in her throne room with a flash. The same spell that evacuated the city below had reached far enough to remove everyone from the castle as well.
The moment she materialized the tall glass windows lining her throne room, replaced just a month ago, exploded outward as the air in the room superheated and violently attempted to escape. Her huge throne, dozens of feet away, blackened and burst into flames after just a few seconds next to her brilliance.
Tiny rivulets of gold were running down her chest, she realized. Her torc, which should have been able to survive unharmed inside a volcano, was beginning to melt like wax.
She tore it off with a hoof in a sudden rage. It flopped to the crackling floor at her feet with a wet *plop*, already halfway to becoming a puddle. She stomped on it furiously, screaming as the spells around it collapsed and it turned back into a ruined, melted version of her armillary sphere.
Somepony had stolen her torc. Somepony had stolen her torc, not realizing what it was for, and because of their foolishness the world was going to burn.
Fires raged throughout the keep, carried by currents of air that were nearly aflame themselves. Within minutes of her arrival every organic item in the castle was burning.
Dozens of acres of gardens, among the finest in the world, began to ignite. The trees turned into massive torches, their crowns lighting the mountainside for miles around. Carefully manicured topiaries twisted in cruel mockeries of the forms they had been carved to emulate. Above the roaring fires a series of deafening cracks sounded, as tiny pockets of air trapped in the stone sculptures expanded and burst. Thousands of animals screamed or shrieked or remained silent, each according to their natures, as they burned.
There was another flash from within the keep, and every living thing still in the gardens mercifully died.
In her throne room the being that had once called itself Celestia looked around in confusion. Still shaped like an alicorn, it bore only fragments of her personality and thought, all crowded out by the brilliance of the star burning inside her.
The marble beneath her hooves liquefied and flowed away from her in streams. There was no more fire around her, for there was nothing left to burn. The stone columns holding up the roof sagged and finally surrendered the fight; no longer supported, the ceiling attempted to simultaneously collapse and explode.
One thought remained in the tumult of her mind: her torc. It was still out there, she could sense. Far to the west, and moving further away with every passing second.
Below her the marble ceased to melt and instead simply evaporated. Tiny flickers of ghostly light surrounded the few solid objects remaining in the room as their composition broke down into thin tendrils of plasma.
She could still fix this. With the torc, she could again be whole.
She fanned her wings, flapping them to no effect. The superheated air around her was thinner than the void between the stars, and nowhere near dense enough to support her weight.
But that was fine – alicorns had never needed wings to fly. She continued to flap, entirely out of habit, as she rose into the air. Once she was clear of the ruins of the keep she began flying west, slowly picking up speed.
Like the stars’ own spear she lit a burning trail through the skies.
|
Cold in Gardez
|
1001
| 5 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
|
A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
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complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
|
teen
|
2011-09-26T21:03:45+00:00
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2011-09-26T21:03:45+00:00
| 4,120 |
Once, when Twilight Sparkle was a young filly, she very nearly fell into a firepit.
Like most foals she went through an adventurous phase, during which she was convinced of her own invulnerability. She jumped off roofs trying to fly like a pegasus. She attempted dangerous spells that would give expert magicians pause, despite barely having any magic in her horn. She explored the streets of Canterlot at night, not comprehending that even in the Celestial City some areas simply weren’t safe.
It was a trying time for her parents, to say the least. Their daughter, normally so quiet and reserved, seemed determined to either make them die of worry or get killed herself.
Her final filly adventure, so to speak, occurred just a few days before the end of summer, a time when families gathered for reunions and feasts. Even unicorn ponies, not normally given to such plebeian activities as ‘cook-outs,’ would gather for outdoor vegetable roasts beneath the fading evening skies to celebrate the approach of autumn. Pumpkins, squash, zucchinis, corn, carrots and apples – so many apples – all would be tossed onto grills and roasted, filling the air with an indescribable mixture of scents. The very act of breathing became a feast for the senses.
On that night her father plucked an apple from the grill with his magic and floated it over to her waiting hooves. Its skin, still a bright golden yellow, had blackened and split from the heat, and from the steaming flesh of the fruit rose a savory caramel scent that begged – no, demanded – to be devoured. And devour it she did.
Because it was a summer feast and because she was a foal, no one scolded her for licking the still-warm apple juices from her hooves. Her father just laughed and promised to get her another apple, once they were done roasting.
That seemed like a long time to wait for such a delicious treat. Too long, in fact. And so the young Twilight Sparkle took it upon herself to fetch another apple.
The grill was a long metal rack suspended over a large pit dug in the sandy earth of the park. The pit was packed with charcoal and embers nearly to the level of the ground, and filled the air above with sparks and low flames. Juices from the fruits and vegetables suspended above would drip down into the pit, instantly vaporizing with a loud hiss that added to the background noise of the party.
Try as she might, Twilight couldn’t quite lift anything from the grill with her magic – she simply wasn’t strong enough yet. Instead she leaned over the edge of the pit and stretched a hoof up to the grill, reaching for a simmering red delicious just out of reach.
An adult, a tan earth pony tending the grill, noticed her efforts. He was about to help by grabbing the apple when the sand beneath her shifted suddenly, dumping her onto her belly with her forelegs and hooves crashing into the embers. Instead of the apple the earth pony grabbed her mane in his teeth and pulled her away from the pit, just as the first wails escaped her lips.
The damage could have been far worse. As it was the hair on her fetlocks was entirely burnt away, and the skin beneath badly blistered. Her soles were tender for weeks, and her parents spent months lathering a special cream on her hooves to keep them from drying out and cracking.
Bed-ridden for more than a week, she turned to books for solace. It was the beginning of a life-long obsession with the written word, and in time she would come to be thankful for the accident and the book-filled days that followed.
***
When Twilight Sparkle opened her eyes, she was no longer in Canterlot.
The last thing she remembered was covering her face with her forelegs. Even through clenched eyelids she could see the shape of her hooves, and as the terrible bright light reached a peak she thought she could see the outlines of bones and blood vessels within them. Then there was a final flash that stole all of her vision, and suddenly the heat was gone.
All around her was darkness, like someone had painted the world with pitch. Slowly she became aware of a tiny point of light just above the horizon; as her eyes adjusted she realized it was the sun.
Around her came the sounds of other ponies in similar distress. Lots of ponies, in fact – her nose picked up the scents of hundreds of terrified mares and stallions, all starting to recover their voices and call out to each other.
The light slowly returned to her eyes, fading splotches of afterimages swirling and shifting and eventually giving way to the sight of mass confusion. A sharp, sickening scent of burnt hair filled her nostrils, and when the world finally came into focus she saw that the tips of her coat had singed into brown curls.
She tried to speak, and found that her mouth was completely dry. All she could manage was an incoherent mumble as her tongue stuck to teeth and lips. She paused for a moment to work up some saliva, and tried again.
“Is… is everyone alright?” she asked, and turned to the nearest pony.
It was Luna, who was still staring into the space where her sister had just been. None of her fur was burned, Twilight noted with some annoyance.
“Twi! What the HAY just happened?” Applejack’s voice came from behind. She turned to her friend, prompting the orange pony to recoil in shock.
“Stars, Twilight! Are you alright?” Applejack asked, her eyes wide as she stared at the unicorn’s blackened coat. Rainbow Dash stumbled to her side, mouth agape as she took in Twilight’s condition.
“I’m fine, Applejack,” she said, managing to keep all but the fainted quaver from her voice. “Trust me, I’ve been burned worse before.” She rubbed her coat with a hoof, knocking off the burnt tips of the hairs and revealing the healthy lavender fur beneath.
“T-tia?” They heard Luna say. The alicorn looked around, stunned, eventually settling on the girls. All around them hundreds of ponies were going through identical stages of shock. The air was filled with confused cries, shouts and sob. A great number apparently thought they were dead and that this was the afterlife.
Applejack recovered first. She stomped over to Luna, dragging Twilight with her by the mane. Rainbow Dash followed the pair, her ears pressed flat against her skull and her wings held tight against her body.
“Luna?” Applejack poked the princess’s shoulder with a hoof. “Luna! C’mon girl, we need you.”
The alicorn stared at the offending hoof, then up at its owner. A sharp focus returned to her eyes, and the stunned filly was gone, replaced by the goddess of the moon.
“She teleported us,” she said. “I don’t know how she did it, but somehow she teleported us… here? Where are we?”
The four looked around, taking in the crowds of ponies around them. They seemed to be in the middle of a large meadow bordered by a mix of tall trees. A well-worn trail beneath their feet, crowded with ponies, cut through the tall grass and led into the forest.
Despite the thousands of ponies crowding the landscape as far as she could see, Twilight instantly recognized the spot. She and Applejack had walked on that very road less than a day earlier.
“This… this is the Whitetail Woods,” she finally said, looking around in confusion. “I think we’re just a few miles from Ponyville, actually.” To the south she could just barely make out the perpetual clouds that covered the Everfree Forest like a shroud. Much further away to the north rose the heights of the Sidesaddle Mountains. The vague shape of Canterlot Keep was visible even at this distance, perched on the side of the nearest peak.
“Why would she do that?” Luna said, following Twilight’s gaze to the north. “Why send us all here?” The towers of Canterlot began to shine as the first light of dawn struck them, filling the air with the dazzling radiance Twilight had always associated with the city.
“Who cares?!” Applejack interjected, stomping her foot. “She almost cooked us back there! Why the hay did she do that?”
“I don’t think she could help it, Applejack,” Twilight said. She took a deep breath and exhaled, trying to remain calm. “She seemed confused and… hurt.” Luna shot her a pained look.
The alicorn opened her mouth to say something when suddenly she froze, her eyes widening in alarm. Twilight stared at her for a moment, and then turned to see what was so important it could silence a royal princess.
High above and far away, Canterlot began to burn.
***
It started with a thin trickle of smoke rising from the side of the mountain. Within moments the smoke expanded, smothering the peak and rising high into the air. Tiny sparks flashed in the windows of the castle, lighting the mountainside and city below like flashbulbs. Despite the distance the flashes left pinpoint afterimages in the eyes of the watching ponies.
The tiny sparks turned into a brilliant flare that drowned out the sun. The keep vanished from view, replaced by a burning ember that filled the sky above with a towering cloud of smoke that soared thousands of feet into the air, dwarfing the mountain range below.
The faint form of the keep was still visible through the aura of flames that consumed the mountainside. As they watched pieces of the structure cracked and fell away, tumbling down the mountain in a shower of wreckage and molten rock.
There was a final flash, blinding even from dozens of miles away. When the sky faded and vision returned, the keep was no more. In its place was a slowly expanding ring of debris lifting into the sky; thousands of red-hot stones, some the size of buildings, traced arrow-straight lines of smoke in the air as they flew away from the shining star perched on the burning mountain.
The star, too brilliant to gaze at for more than a moment, seemed to hover in mid-air just above the cliff. After a moment it began to rise, violently dispersing the column of smoke that rose from the ruined mountain. Higher and higher it flew, shining like a second sun.
Eventually it came to a stop, and started drifting to the west, away from the rising sun.
***
Twilight watched in horror as her home, her entire life, vanished in flames.
The city she was born in lay hidden beneath a pall of smoke. Shortly after the keep exploded a river of lava had poured down the mountainside, crashing through the stone buildings below like they were nothing more than sand. Within moments half the city was in flames.
The Keep itself, where she had spent years with her mentor learning the ways of magic, was simply gone. The gardens, the towers, beautiful libraries, Celestia’s halls and throne room – all destroyed in the blink of an eye. Aside from the debris still soaring through the air, nothing remained of the greatest work of art ever created.
Even the shape of the mountain had changed. Still glowing, still burning, it looked like some errant god had taken a dollop from its side with a giant ice cream scoop. At the back of her mind the academic in her calmly noted that geographic maps of the mountain range would need to be redrawn. Then she remembered that the maps were all stored in the Canterlot library anyway.
The ponies watched in silence as the world they had known came to an end.
After a while – Twilight couldn’t have said how long – they became aware of a quiet keening sound. Luna was doubled over, her horn scraping the ground as she sobbed. Around them dozens of other ponies were going through the same stage of grief as they realized their homes were gone – buried or reduced to ash on the wind. Twilight felt a pang of guilt for her own feelings of loss: at least she still had Ponyville and her friends. Many others had lost everything.
“What… what was that thing?” Rainbow Dash finally asked. The shining star that had risen from the ruins passed behind another mountain range and was gone, leaving only the glow from the fires of Canterlot behind.
“It was her,” Luna said. Her voice nearly broke on the final word. “It was Celestia. I don’t know what she’s doing or what happened, but that was her.”
“But no pony could survive that,” Twilight said, staring up at the still-rising tower of smoke that now blotted out nearly a quarter of the sky. “I know she’s powerful, but—"
“She’s the sun goddess, Twilight,” Luna interrupted, her voice thick with emotion. “Emphasis on the word sun. She could do this.” The princess shivered slightly as the light of morning finally found them in the forest, and she seemed to slump. “Sister…” Twilight heard her whisper.
They were silent for a while longer. Finally Luna forced herself to her feet, and walked unsteadily to the three friends.
“Listen,” she said, slurring the word slightly. “I can’t stay awake during the day without her. You need to follow her for me, until night returns and I can find her.”
“How the hay are we s’posed ta follow that?” Applejack asked. “And what are we s’posed ta do when we catch up ta her?”
Luna’s head started to sink, then jerked back up as she caught herself. “I... I don’t know, Applejack,” she said. “She’s not moving very fast. Stars, commandeer one of the western rail lines. Tell them I said you could take it.”
“I could catch her!” Rainbow Dash shouted. She was already halfway off the ground when Applejack yanked her back to earth, her teeth firmly clenched around the cyan mare’s rainbow tail. Dash gave her a hurt look.
“Tha’s prolly not a good idea, Dash,” she said after spitting out the tail. Twilight was inclined to agree.
So was Luna, apparently. She rested a hoof on the pegasus pony’s shoulder, drawing her closer. “No, Rainbow Dash, I have a special task for you…”
***
Less than ten minutes later Rainbow Dash was in the air, streaking away from Ponyville and her friends. Far to the west the sky still glowed with the light of the departing sun goddess, who was slowly making her way to points unknown.
She wanted to be with her friends. They were running toward the danger while she was running away, which seemed like a terrible thing to do, especially for the Element of Loyalty.
At Luna’s request she was flying at full speed, high above the earth. The thinner air at high altitudes meant less wind resistance, and therefore higher speeds, but also required more energy and endurance from the pegasus to stay aloft.
She flew north, following Luna’s instructions. The Saddleback Mountains grew beneath her from low ridges that surrounded Canterlot into grim, rocky peaks that reached nearly as high as she was. The trees below changed as she flew, from the thick oak and beech forests of Ponyville to stands of identical aspen. Their leaves, dark on top and light on the bottom, seemed to turn the mountainsides into shimmering green blankets as they shook in the wind.
By noon she was further from home than she had ever flown before. The landscape below was alien – a tangle of valleys and ridges and peaks that looked almost like the veins in a leaf. The trees had changed again, into small, stunted pines that clung to the crevasse, their roots digging into the solid rock in search of a desperate solid purchase. Centuries of wind had contorted them into twisted shapes, more horizontal than vertical.
Luna, nearly incoherent with fatigue, hadn’t given her much to go by. Fly north, she had said, until you find the tallest mountain in Equestria – the Roof of the World.
“How will I know which one’s the tallest?” she had asked. For all she knew there would be another, higher mountain just over the horizon. She could spend days inspecting mountains, trying to figure out which one was the tallest.
You’ll know, had been the answer.
Her last words, before collapsing into an unbreakable slumber, hadn’t made any sense at the time. Even Twilight could only guess what she had meant by begging the stars for aid.
Ahead of her, perhaps an hour’s distance, the clouds grew thicker and higher, warning of possible storms. One cloud bank in particular rose high above the mountains, reaching up to the edge of the stratosphere.
As she flew the clouds thinned and dispersed with the advent of evening. All but the tall bank of clouds, which had only grown larger in her eyes.
It was not, she eventually realized, a cloud. It was a mountain unlike any in the world, impossibly high. It made the other mountains around it look like foothills – from a distance the entire mountain range seemed like flat earth, compared to this monster.
She headed for the summit.
***
The roof of the world was far too high to reach on wings. The barren, rocky peak of the tallest mountain on Equestria stretched far above the clouds. It reached so high that even snow was a memory; the few wind-blown flakes that managed to find their way to the summit rapidly sublimated into the dry, thin air.
Rainbow Dash gave up flying more than a thousand feet below the peak, landing instead on a relatively flat outcropping of rock cleaving to the sheer mountainside. Her wings burned from flapping almost as fast as a hummingbird’s in a futile attempt to produce enough lift to keep her up. The rest of the way to the top would have to be on hoof.
Whoever created the roof of the world at least made some allowances for pedestrians – a narrow path had been hewn from the cliff, tracing upward in a broken, irregular slash that seemed wrap all the way around the mountain. The part she could see was wide enough for two ponies to walk side-by-side, if they didn’t mind being friendly with each other. Some kind soul had even left sconces along the edge of the path, though any torches they might have once held had long since burned or rotted away.
Off to the west the disc of the sun was nearly touching the mountains as it set. There was probably less than an hour of light before the stars would start emerging, she figured, and she had to be on top by then.
Piece of cake, she thought, and started cantering up the path at a brisk pace that would have done Applejack proud. Be up there in no time.
Five minutes later that assessment was looking a bit optimistic. She was less than a quarter of the way up and her legs could barely support her weight. The path in front of her swam in and out of focus and the light from the sun seemed to tremor in time with her pulse. A crushing headache was introducing itself to her brain as she tried to decide between throwing up or passing out.
Okay, she thought. Air’s a little thinner than I expected. Deep breaths, Dash, just like at flight school. Young pegasuses were all taught to recognize oxygen deprivation, in case they ended up flying too high before their lungs developed enough to power their wings at altitude. More than one young pegasus had tried flying to the moon their first time in the air, usually with bad results.
The deep breaths worked. She waited another minute just to be sure she wasn’t going to faint, then started back up the path, this time at a much more sedate pace Twilight Sparkle would have appreciated. From time to time a gust of wind forced her to stop and huddle against the rock wall, until she realized the stone was leeching heat from her body faster than the wind could ever hope to. After that she simply rested on her knees and mantled her wings when the wind grew too strong.
By the time she neared the top the winds were blowing constantly and her hooves were numb. Only by staring at the path in front of her could she make sure each leg was planted before lifting the next.
Cold, as far as Rainbow Dash knew, had never directly killed a pegasus – nature had adapted them to the frigid air high above the ground. Ice had claimed more than one pegasus’ life, but only because they had flown from a drenching rain straight into a blizzard without noticing the ice building up on their wings until it was too late.
Still, there was a first time for everything, and it was starting to look to Rainbow Dash like she might be the first pegasus to actually freeze to death. Another record for the blue mare, though not one she was excited to claim.
Instead she climbed. Even as her mane grew stiff with frost, and her wings drooped numbly to drag on the path beside her, she never considered turning around. The thought, quite honestly, never occurred to her.
So it was for the best when, as the last of the sun’s evening rays vanished into twilight, with her last ounce of strength and last breath of air, she crested the last step and reached the highest point in Equestria – the roof of the world.
And promptly collapsed.
* * *
Her first thought upon waking up was that she must have gone to the wrong mountain after all. In fact, she didn’t even seem to be on a mountain of any sort. The rock her face rested on was flat and polished to a mirror-like shine so perfect she could make out the reflections of the stars above.
Stars, she thought, her mind still fuzzy with cold. So pretty. Rarity would love you. I should take some of you back with me…
Her second thought was that it was much too warm to be on top of a mountain. Feeling had returned to her hooves and her left wing, though she seemed to have come to a rest on top of her right wing somehow. Rolling slightly to free it, she got her first look at the sky.
On a normal night ponies could see a few thousand stars from the ground. A pegasus pony, far overhead with dark-adapted eyes, might see ten times that number, and make out the stain of the Milky Way on moonless nights. Only with a telescope like the one in Twilight’s library could a pony hope to see more.
From the roof of the world, Rainbow Dash saw more. Stars like gemstones blazed in the sky, filling the darkness with every color of light. Vast, glowing nebulae banished any hint of the night, and the Milky Way sparkled like a sunlit river overhead.
“The roof of the world is a stepping stone,” Luna had said. “It is the threshold between Equestria and the void. Do not forget you are closer to them when you are there, and further from us.”
Tearing her eyes from the sky she saw that she was still on the mountain. Rather than coming to a normal peak, someone had sheared the mountaintop clean off, leaving a flat, polished plateau perhaps 30 yards wide. At the center of the plateau rested a boulder about the size of a pony. Nothing else interrupted the featureless expanse of the roof.
She trotted closer to the boulder for a better look. It had seen better days; unlike the polished perfection of the plateau it was clearly unworked. Pitted and seared, it looked like a metal ingot fallen from a giant’s forge. Blisters and flakes of rust discolored every inch of its surface, and she thought she could taste the tang of iron on the air around it.
It was also old. Even without touching the boulder she could feel in her bones that it was far more ancient than the forests or the oceans or the mountain it rested upon. It was probably older than the world itself. Maybe as old as the stars, she thought, absently.
“Older than us, even,” a voice sounded from above. The words were tremulous, reedy, as though coming from a great distance. Looking up, Dash saw that one of the stars, Polaris, was shining far brighter than it had just minutes ago.
“Are you a star, then?” she shouted up at the sky. It was a silly question in retrospect, but shouting made her feel confident and she wasn’t known for thinking before opening her mouth.
“Yes, but you knew that. You came looking for us,” the voice drifted back from the heavens. “What do you want, little mortal?” At the word ‘mortal’ the entire sky spun overhead for an instant; only the North Star, still blazing, remained constant.
She gulped. Luna hadn’t given her much to go by, except to ask for help. She decided to be direct.
“I am Rainbow Dash, the fastest pony in all of Equestria!” she shouted. Even when petitioning the stars she couldn’t help but brag. “Princess Luna sent me, to—"
“Luna, you say?” the star cut her off before she could finish. “Sent you to repay her debt, perhaps? So glad she remembered us. Though you don’t look like you’re in a condition to pay anything.”
Another star, a dark incarnadine ruby hanging just above the horizon, flashed with a brief light. Nothing at all, something whispered in Dash’s head, followed by a humorless laugh.
Luna hadn’t mentioned anything about debts. Or payments. Especially payments, come to think of it. Coming here was starting to seem like a bad idea. And was the North Star starting to glow a bit brighter?
She decided to start over. “No, she sent me to ask a favor! We—"
The sky exploded as every star suddenly blazed like a tiny sun. A horrendous cacophony flooded the pony’s mind as thousands of voices shouted for supremacy, blending together in an incomprehensible babble that drove her to her knees with her hooves uselessly pressed over her ears.
“SILENCE!” the North Star screamed into chaos. “ONLY I SPEAK HERE.” The other voices slowly faded away, though overhead the stars still glimmered. With its dominance reestablished the star turned its attention back to the trembling pony.
“No, little mortal,” the star spoke with its distance voice. “We have given enough aid to your princess. Tell Luna to wait another thousand years if she wants our help again.” Overhead the stars began to dim, as though receding from view. The air grew chill and thin again.
“Wait!” she yelled. “You have to help us!” Nothing; the sky continued to dim. Even the North Star was fading back to its normal light.
Think, Dash! They won’t do it for you, and they won’t do it for Luna, who will they do it for? The answer was so obvious it took her a moment to put the words together.
“Celestia!” she screamed at the fading stars. “It’s for Celestia!”
The heavens froze. The North Star, almost gone, began to twinkle and then shine with a tentative light.
“Celestia, you say?” the star replied, its voice still faint. “That is a name we have not heard in many years.”
Ages, one of the other stars whispered in her head. She briefly wondered how long that was for a star.
“What does the fair sun goddess need from us?” Polaris asked, now shining as bright as it had before. “Why does she not come here herself?”
Pride, a high-pitched voice sounded in her mind, almost like the tinkling of a bell. She was always so prideful. Overhead a tiny yellow star sparkled in time with the words.
“No! Celestia is kind and generous and loving!” she shouted up at the sky. “She didn’t come because something happened. There was… there was an accident,” her voice nearly broke on the last word. She sat on her haunches and described everything that had happened at Canterlot, from the Solstice Ceremony to Luna’s parting instruction. By the time she finished her wings were wrapped protectively around her body, and it was all she could do not to cry.
The stars twinkled overhead, apparently discussing the matter amongst themselves. Occasionally words or bits of sentences would press against Rainbow Dash’s mind, but they were as tenuous as the wind and instantly forgotten. Finally the North Star turned its light back to the huddled pony.
“So, Celestia,” it said. “The god who wanted to live as a mortal… impossible, of course. But we gave her the next best thing.”
Better, even, another star intruded in her thoughts. Still a god.
“Yes, quite. You can’t unmake a god, little mortal, but you can take them down a peg, if you have the right tools. You could even make one look like a pony, if you wanted.”
Despite her emotional exhaustion, that sounded a bit too much like an insult for Dash. “What are you talking about? She is a pony. I’ve seen her, I’ve even touched her! And what’s wrong with being a pony?!”
The stars above glimmered as laughter filled her mind.
“We mean no offense, little mortal,” the North Star finally responded, “but she is no more a pony than I am. The Celestia you know is a shell that is starting to crack and fall away.”
Pity, a brown, lightless star whispered, she seemed so happy.
“Soon only the radiance of a god will be left,” the star continued. “I’m not sure what that will result in. Nothing good, probably. Stars shouldn’t fly so close to planets.”
Dangerous, an emerald star whispered, followed by murmurs of assent from the others.
‘Nothing good’ actually seemed like a dramatic understatement, if what she had seen at Canterlot was any indication. “So will you help us or not?” she demanded, her brash attitude starting to resurface.
“You? No, and why should we?” the star replied. “The affairs of mortals mean nothing to us. Celestia, on the other hand… Celestia has done much for us in the past.” The star paused, and conferred again with its company, illuminating the sky with flashes of color.
“We may be able to help Celestia,” it finally said. “Tell me, have you ever seen this?” As the star spoke an image floated into view over the iron boulder at the center of the plateau. A golden necklace, like the Element of Harmony she earned fighting Nightmare Moon, but much larger and heavier.
“Yeah, it’s Celestia’s necklace,” the pony said. “She always wears it.”
“Well, she isn’t now,” the star replied. “If she were this wouldn’t be happening. In fact, let’s see if we can’t…” the other stars flashed again, slowly fading one-by-one until only a single yellow zircon remained lit. “Aha, there it is.”
“What… why does that thing matter?” the pony asked, confused. “If she’s really a god why does she need a piece of jewelry?”
“It’s not jewelry, it’s an energy sink,” the star responded with a distracted voice, as though it was busy with something else. “You must understand, mortal, Celestia was a terribly lonely god. When she found your world and the young races just born upon it, she thought she had found a home.
“But despite the love she felt for your world she could not draw near it, not without causing terrible damage,” the star continued in its absent voice. “She begged us to find a way to live amongst you. The torc you see there was our solution. It dampens her brilliance and allows her to masquerade as a mortal. Indeed, I think she may have forgotten her true nature as time passed.”
Forgotten us, a tiny red star lamented.
“She seems to have mislaid the torc somehow,” the star concluded. “Return it to her and she’ll be restored to her, alas, nearly mortal state.”
Mortal, several of the stars whispered, all with mockery in their voices.
“Awesome!” This was the first good news Rainbow Dash had heard yet. “So, where is it?”
There was no response. The stars glimmered overhead, some brightening, some dimming.
“Hey! I said, where is it?” Patience was not her strong point.
Still no response. The stars continued to confer with each other for what felt like hours while the pony shouted every threat and imprecation she could think of. Finally, the North Star spoke again, its brilliance shining down on her like a spotlight.
“You are a very brash and demanding mortal,” it said. “You come here on Luna’s behalf yet offer no payment for her outstanding debt, and have the audacity to demand another favor?”
Tiny as an insect, a black, hollow star whispered. The others seemed to shy away from its cold words.
“Um, well, that is, I was going to—”
“Be quiet,” the star reprimanded her. “We know what you were going to offer: nothing.”
The pony cringed, trying to find some way out of this mess. She wished for a moment Twilight could have been with her – the lavender unicorn was so much better in these situations.
“But,” the star continued, “we can be generous. We will tell you where Celestia’s torc is, in exchange for one small request.”
That is a lie, a bright sapphire star warned. There is nothing small about his price.
“Uh, well, I was kind of thinking I could go and get the tor… uh, necklace real fast, because I’m the fastest pony in Equestria, then I would come back and pay you,” she said.
“Indeed, just like Luna did.”
Rainbow Dash cringed again. She wondered if anypony had ever actually paid the stars back for their favors.
“No, I don’t think that will work for us,” the star said. “We’ll be needing this payment up front.”
She tried a different tack. “But you are stars! What do I have that you need?!”
“Nothing, I assure you. But that’s not the point. What matters is how much it is worth to you, little mortal. I wonder, what do you value most of all?”
The pony stepped back, suddenly frightened. Unbidden, her wings folded tightly against her back, as though trying to hide.
The North Star pulsed with laughter. “Yes, you see now,” it said, and a pair of invisible hands gripped her wings and pulled them open, stretching them painfully wide and lifting her onto her back legs. A panicky fear began to build in her brain, pushing out everything but the image of her wings being ripped off by a careless god.
“These will do. Give us your wings, little mortal, and we will tell you where the torc may be found.”
She tried to twist free, but whatever held her was stronger than iron. She lashed out with her hooves at the empty air. A gnawing dread clamped around her heart as she struggled. Someone was sobbing, she thought, and only after running out of breath did she realize it was her.
I can’t do this, she thought. I’ll go back and tell the others the stars wouldn’t listen. I’ll blame Luna – tell them the stars demanded she pay back her debt first. It’s true! They won’t blame me, they’ll blame her, no one will blame me, they’ll blame her, they’ll blame her – the words stuck on repeat in her mind. She could already see her friends casting Luna out, blaming her, and thanking Rainbow Dash for trying. Her friends…
Her friends, chasing down an out-of-control god, depending on her.
Her friends, risking their lives, trusting her.
The epiphany was so abrupt she would have collapsed, if her wings weren’t still being held. After a few shaking breaths she jerked her head back up to the sky and the waiting stars.
“You’re wrong!” she shouted. “Take my wings for all I care! I’ll still be the fastest pony in all of Equestria!” The stars overhead froze in place for the first time since her arrival.
“If you think these wings are all I care about, you know nothing!” she screamed. “Nothing, you hear me?! You may be ancient, and powerful, and cruel, but you know NOTHING!
“These wings aren’t the most important thing to me! MY FRIENDS ARE!”
One by one the stars dimmed and went out. The bright nebulae and galaxies faded away, until only four points of light remained: the North Star and three other gems hanging alone in the sky.
The dark ruby to the west sparkled briefly. You see, it whispered, she is loyal after all, and then faded away.
Is that proof enough? the sapphire overhead asked, and then it too vanished.
I am convinced, Polaris, the yellow zircon said as it went out.
Only the pony, the North Star, and the iron boulder remained. The sky, the plateau, and the world around them were empty and black.
The invisible hands holding Dash up suddenly vanished. A reflexive flap of her wings kept her from landing badly, though she still ached from being held for so long.
“Well, it seems you really are the Element of Loyalty,” the diamond star finally said. “Your willingness to sacrifice yourself for your friends proves that.
“The torc is in the possession of a pony who calls herself ‘The Great and Powerful’ Trixie,” the star continued, saying the magician’s name with a bit of hesitation, as if not quite sure how seriously to take it. Despite her shock at the revelation, Dash could sympathize. “She is west of Canterlot, near the town you call Appleloosa.”
Overhead the stars were slowly reemerging, but as she normally saw them from the ground. A cold wind blew across the plateau as the magic of the roof faded away with the approach of morning. The North Star was barely brighter than normal when it spoke again.
The sun will rise soon, it whispered, get the torc to Celestia before then, or hide during the daylight. You may be brave and loyal, but she will burn you to a cinder after the dawn.
Dash didn’t need to be told twice. With a running leap she flung herself off the precipice, gaining speed as she fell to the warmer, thicker air below. With a loud crack her wings snapped open to catch the air, and she sped west like a shooting star.
Oh, and one more thing, a faint voice whispered in the back of her mind. Tell Luna to visit sometime, we have so much to talk about.
Much indeed. Dash looked forward to her own chat with the princess.
|
Cold in Gardez
|
1001
| 6 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
|
A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
|
complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
|
teen
|
2011-09-28T02:10:55+00:00
|
2011-09-28T02:10:55+00:00
| 4,191 |
The nearest rail station was just a few miles from Ponyville. There had been some discussion of adding a feeder line to connect the town to the rail network, but that would have required building dangerously near the Everfree Forest. Most ponies were content to simply walk.
Twilight Sparkle and Applejack stopped in Ponyville long enough to drop off the comatose Luna and explain, to the best of their knowledge, what had happened in Canterlot. It was a lot for the stunned mayor to absorb.
“The entire population of Canterlot is in the woods?!” she shrieked. She was still dressed in her formal saddle and bow for the local Summer Sun Celebration, which had been interrupted by the explosion in the capital.
“Trust me, it’s better than stayin’ in Canterlot,” Applejack said. She and the mayor had retreated to the town hall with the sleeping princess, while Twilight frantically loaded her library into a borrowed wagon, to the earth pony’s frustration. When Applejack had told her to pack supplies for the trip, she hadn’t meant books.
The older mare took a deep breath. “We don’t have enough food or shelter for even a tenth of those ponies here,” she said, pouring over a stack of papers on her desk. “Fillydelphia’s the closest major city. We can start moving ponies there. The pegasi should be fine; they can fly to Cloudsdale or other cities if they haven’t already.”
“Can’t we just call fer help?”
“Call who for help, Applejack?” the mayor said. “The entire government was in Canterlot. The only figure of authority we have left is Luna, and she won’t wake up.”
They glanced at the sleeping alicorn, who was draped as comfortably as possible over a small couch in the mayor’s office. Aside from breathing, she hadn’t so much as budged in the past two hours.
“I can send fliers to the nearest cities to explain the situation, but until she wakes up we’re going to have to deal with this piecemeal,” she continued. “If you want that train you’d better grab it fast – there’s going to be a lot of ponies looking for a ride soon. Just because Luna said you could take it won’t stop a frightened herd.”
***
“Twilight, that’s enough,” Applejack said. The unicorn had somehow managed to load an entire apple wagon with at least a thousand books, and was going back into the library for more.
“Just a few more, AJ!” she shouted from inside the library. “Do you think I’ll need my telescope?”
“I think we need to go! Stop worrin’ about all this!”
“But—"
“Sugar, I’m leaving in five minutes. She’s already two hours ahead of us an’ we have no idea if the tracks will even take us to where she’s headed.”
“Fine!” There was a loud crash inside the library, as though someone had just dropped a pile of books. Applejack thought she could hear Spike protesting within.
Twilight stomped out, her telescope floating in the air behind her. She gave the library a final look, her eyes tight with worry, then turned to Applejack.
“But what if there’s something in one of these books?” she asked. “We might catch her and not know what to do!”
“Then we’ll improvise,” Applejack answered. “It’s an Apple family specialty.”
Less than an hour later the train pulled away from the station. All but one passenger car had been detached, and the conductor ponies had all the incentive in the world to hurry.
They set several local speed records for the line as they drove west, following the faint glow over the horizon.
***
The gentle hues of the Pastel Desert, illuminated by the high morning sun, filled the train’s cabin when Trixie finally woke.
For a panic-filled moment she forgot where she was. The rocking, rumbling car was so unlike her room in the keep – her small, comfortable room in the keep – that she shot to her hooves, ready to flee or fight. She sucked in a gasp of air, and then coughed as the heat and dust of the desert scratched her lungs. By the time her coughing fit subsided she remembered how she came to be in the train, and simply felt foalish (and relieved that nopony else had seen her frightened display).
Her old acquaintance, regret, joined her in the empty cabin. The harsh light of morning was never Trixie’s friend – all her choices, so wise and meaningful the night before, now seemed distant in their rationale. She felt empty, as she always did after waking in the wrong bed or the wrong town with the consequences of her actions staring her (sometimes literally) in the face.
Outside the desert landscape sped by. She wished it were faster.
She frowned, annoyed by her own maudlin thoughts. It was already daylight, Celestia must be awake, and her illusionary torc had apparently worked. If it hadn’t, flights of pegasus guards would have undoubtedly intercepted the train by now and taken her into custody. She appeared to have gotten away with her theft.
Her theft. The thought washed over her like a cold rain, banishing any lingering hints of sleep. She was not a virtuous pony by any account, even her own, but she had never stolen from another pony before last night. Much less a god. Already her brazen decision, not even 12 hours old, was beginning to seem like a mistake.
And yet… the heavy weight in her saddlebags, worn throughout the night, pulled at her mind like iron filings to a magnet. After a quick, nervous check of the cabin to make sure she was still alone, she opened the flap and gazed at the golden treasure within.
It was still there, waiting for her. The rest of the world – the scent and color of the desert, the rattling of the train – seemed to recede, leaving only the torc. It stared back at her from the depths of the saddlebag. A feeling like leaning over a high cliff, about to fall, briefly intruded in her mind.
It called to her. It wanted to be worn.
But for all the foalish things she had done, Trixie was not a fool. Across Equestria ponies would recognize the torc from the ubiquitous images of Princess Celestia that decorated her realm. While its theft might not be immediately known, there was no telling how long that would last, and at some point wearing the necklace around in broad daylight would be a dangerous invitation to pointed questions or worse.
So she closed the saddlebag, and adjusted its cinches to make sure it fit tight and snug around her body. It would be the height of irony to gamble everything for the lens, and then lose it because her saddlebag wasn’t worn correctly.
Appleloosa lay further ahead, waiting for her slow passenger train. The full light of noon baked the platform when the train finally pulled to a halt, and she and the other few passengers disembarked for the arid, desert town.
***
Appleloosa was… quaint. Smaller than she expected, with only one real street, which itself was a generous term for the long, straight empty space between the two rows of buildings. Apparently they weren’t big on paving stones in the west. Still, the packed dirt was soft on her hooves as she hopped off the platform, and not too hot, either. Real stone would have singed the soles of her hooves after just a few seconds under this sun.
“Pardon me, sir,” she called to a fit-looking earth pony stallion with a yellow coat and soft, tussled orange mane. He looked over in surprise, and then trotted up to her, tipping a wide-rimmed felt cowpony hat respectfully.
“Well howdy ma’am,” he said, his wide green eyes filled with the humor and goodwill that seemed to be the trademark of earth ponies. “Welcome ta Appleloosa!” He paused, giving her horn and cutie mark a quick glance, and spoke again. “It’s mighty nice of ya ta visit us. We don’t get many unicorns out here.”
She cursed inwardly. Of course they didn’t get many unicorns in a frontier town, and she hadn’t even bothered to hide her horn or cutie mark. She may as well have just worn a sign with her name on it. Other earth ponies were beginning to give her curious looks as they passed.
“Yes, well, it is their loss I am sure,” she said. “I don’t suppose you could direct me to an inn or boarding house?”
“Ah can do better’n that!” he said, and reared up in excitement. “Let’s go on the grand tour of our beautiful town! Ah can show you our dancin’ square, our horses drawin’ horse-drawn carriages, our beeeeautiful apple orchards, our—"
Trixie interrupted before he could drag her off to the tour. Visions of being introduced to everypony in the town as the blue-unicorn-with-the-magic-wand-cutie-mark swam in her head; it would be faster to just take the next train back to Canterlot and turn herself in.
“That’s quite alright, good sir,” she said. “But I am very tired from the train ride, and simply desire a place to rest for a few hours.” The earth pony slumped in rejection, and she tempered her next words. “Perhaps you can show me the town tomorrow?”
He perked back up, a smile returning to his face. “Well, I reckon that’ll work too,” he said. “We got the finest hotel in all the West just down the street. It’s right above the saloon – if’n ya tell Big Mike that Braeburn sent ya, ya’ll get a newcomer discount!”
“I’ll be sure to do that. Thank you, kind gentlestallion,” she gave him a demure smile, one well-practiced from years of appealing to the better natures of male ponies. To judge by his enthusiastic smile and slightly besotted expression, she hadn’t lost her touch.
The saloon cum hotel was the largest structure on its side of the street, just opposite the slightly larger town hall with its attached bell. A steady trickle of earth ponies, all wearing the mandatory cowpony hat, wandered through its swinging double doors. She made a mental note to get one of those hats as soon as possible. A wide wooden patio ran the length of the building, on which sat or stood a variety of mares and stallions, either chatting amiably or simply watching traffic pass by.
Inside the saloon an apparently drunk stallion was violently abusing an old honky-tonk piano, torturing both it and the ears of the patrons around him. Strangely no one else seemed to mind the out-of-tune cacophony – a few ponies were even banging their glasses on the table in rough time with the ‘music.’ Hoof marks scratched into the veneer atop the piano hinted at the type of dancing the saloon featured after dark.
The part of Trixie that had grown comfortable in Canterlot, surrounded by high culture and the finer things in life, wanted to turn around and leave. The part of Trixie that had survived months on the road, freezing temperatures and lack of food shoved the other part into a mental box and locked it away for the time being. She let experience take over, and slid through the crowd like a fish through water.
Barely visible in the dim light was the bar itself, a long wooden affair with a polished countertop tended by a small, dapper-looking mare with a cheery yellow mane and a somber expression. She gave Trixie a sidelong glance as the unicorn approached, and continued wiping down the bar.
“I’m looking for Big Mike,” Trixie said.
“That’s me,” the mare answered without pause.
Um. Trixie blinked and actually missed a beat, an unusual occurrence for the skilled showmare. Apparently the barkeep was used to the reaction; she kept wiping the bar, though to Trixie’s eye it was already clean enough to eat from.
She recovered quickly. “Braeburn sent me,” she said. “He said you might have a room to rent for a day or two.”
The yellow mare put the rag below the bar. “Mhm,” she started, “I bet he also said I’d give you a discount if you mentioned his name.” Trixie bit the inside of her cheek.
“Let me guess,” she tried. “Ex-coltfriend?”
Big Mike laughed out loud, a surprisingly musical sound that filled the saloon with transient joy. A few patrons looked up in surprise.
“You’re a perceptive one,” she said, a smile now on her face. “Or just a lucky guesser. Did he also offer to show you the town?” Trixie nodded.
“Figures,” she continued. “Always the first one to greet new fillies. So, what brings a unicorn to these parts?”
“Just passing through,” she said truthfully. “I wanted to get away from Canterlot for a bit. You know how it is.”
The mare chuckled. “I suppose I do. No one comes out here unless they’re getting away from something.” She paused and gave Trixie an appraising look. “Anyway, yeah, we have rooms. I suppose I can even give you a discount, being new to town and all. Just don’t tell Braeburn.”
Trixie smiled. “I’m good at keeping secrets,” she said.
***
The room was small but cheap. Given her dwindling finances, she didn’t care. It was clean and had a soft bed that was calling her name. Although it was only mid-afternoon she was still exhausted from the restless train ride and her preceding adventures in Canterlot.
The door was equipped with an ominously large deadbolt lock, which she dutifully latched. Confident that no one short of Celestia herself could break down the door, she allowed herself to relax for the first time since Luna’s party.
She stripped off the saddlebags and hung them, with their precious contents, on the corner bedpost. It felt like a thousand pound weight had been removed from her soul.
The Great and Powerful Trixie howled in her mind, demanding that she seize the torc and don it now, the sooner to discover its secrets. She was already a powerful unicorn – with the lens to focus her magic, she could be the greatest. So powerful that Celestia herself might hesitate to challenge her. Everything she had ever desired – fame, power, acclaim – waited in the saddlebags, whispering to her of urgent needs and heady promises.
But she resisted that voice. There would be time later for the torc – right now she needed rest, and the bed was simply too soft and inviting to ignore.
As she drifted off to sleep images of grandeur floated through her mind, interspaced with quiet memories of an indigo friend.
***
The sun was leaning toward the horizon when Trixie woke. A faint headache that was her brain’s way of complaining about irregular sleep patterns squeezed the back of her skull in its vice. Tempting as it was to stay slumped atop the soft mattress and pillow, she had wasted enough time already. Time to get up.
She stood and stretched her neck in an unsuccessful attempt to banish the headache. Some food might help, though her finances were growing thin enough that she couldn’t afford to splurge on extra meals. Better to grab some hay and wait until morning for a real meal.
But food could wait. There was something she had been putting off for too long.
Her horn glowed with a soft silver light as she opened her saddlebag, levitating the torc into the air before her. It was such a simple ornament – a large mass of gold with a light filigree tracing, designed to hold a hoof-sized amethyst over the heart of its bearer. Inside the jewel she thought she could see the image of a four-pointed star refracting the dim light of the room.
This was the moment of truth. She took a breath and gently lowered the torc over her head until she felt the metal band come to rest around her neck. The cold shock of its contact provoked a slight flinch, but otherwise nothing. No instant-death traps, at least – not that she thought Celestia would use such things.
She felt… well, a little silly, actually. The torc was so large the tip dragged on the ground. It weighed so much that she nearly toppled forward when the levitation spell vanished, and she had to reset her hooves simply to stay upright. Wearing this thing for more than a few minutes at a time wasn’t going to be comfortable. Maybe she could wear it like a saddle?
She channeled a tiny bit of magic into her horn, just enough to lighten the weight of the torc, when she felt the metal shift.
For a moment she was too stunned to react as the cold metal suddenly warmed. It crawled over her neck like a writhing snake; the edges bit into her skin as they squeezed, and she felt the sharp rim pressing against her windpipe.
The brief paralysis wore off and she let out a shrill scream before her throat closed in panic. She tried to dig her hooves under the torc before it could close too tightly around her neck, but already the metal was fully against her skin. It seemed to flex with her movements, forming no seam for her desperately prying hooves to exploit. Her heart felt like it was going to explode out of her chest.
The edges of her vision started to turn grey. Sometime tomorrow, after she failed to pay her bill, the somber yellow bar mare with the unusual name would find her lying in this room, strangled to death by a murderous magical artifact. She could only hope nopony else would try to wear the accursed thing. A loud buzzing noise filled her ears as her brain began to shut down from a lack of oxygen…
And suddenly everything was still. The torc was unmoving against her breast, and the room was silent except for the gasping of her breath. For a long while she simply lay on the floor, panting, while the sun slowly sank into evening.
Eventually she found the courage to move, reaching a shaking hoof up to gently touch the torc. A quiet *ting* filled the room, but otherwise there was no reaction. It may as well have been a normal, innocent piece of jewelry that didn’t attempt to strangle unsuspecting unicorns.
She stood slowly, her legs trembling as the remaining adrenaline worked its way through her system. There was a mirror on the far wall, she remembered, and she cautiously walked toward it, terrified that every step would set the torc off again. Finally she drew close enough to turn toward the mirror, and beheld herself.
The torc had shrunk to fit her delicate form perfectly. Nearly three-quarters of its mass had simply vanished in the space of a second, a feat that should have been impossible. The heavy golden weight still tugged at her neck, but it no longer threatened to send her toppling over her front hooves.
“It resized itself…” she mused aloud. How considerate of it. She wondered if its makers were sadistic or just clueless as to the trauma their helpful little artifact could cause.
Even in the scratched, tarnished mirror, the torc was a thing of beauty. Granted, anything worn by her was automatically elevated to the level of artwork, but the necklace was sublime on its own merits. For all that it was a simple gold band with a single crystal, it was somehow more elegant and appealing than anything else she had ever worn.
She could have stared at her reflection for hours. She would have stared at her reflection for hours, had not the bell tower across the street chimed out the time; seven loud gongs that heralded the diminishing sun. Outside the streets began to fill as the heat of day began to dissipate, and ponies ventured forth for the evening.
She shook her head to clear it. As much as she admired her own reflection, staring endlessly into a mirror was unusual even for her. Among its other magical abilities it could apparently enthrall observers. Such a delightful little nightmare it was turning out to be.
There was only one ability she cared about, though, and that was making her more powerful. She took another breath, marshaled her thoughts, and focused on levitating her saddlebags. Best to start small, she figured.
Nothing happened.
Literally, nothing happened. Her horn didn’t glow. The saddlebags didn’t glow. They certainly didn’t lift into the air like they were supposed to. She blinked, stunned, and tried again.
Nothing.
A worm of worry began burrowing in the back of her mind. She gritted her teeth and tried again, this time focusing on the bed with enough magical power to send it flying through the roof.
The whisper of the curtains in the wind was the only movement in the room; her rapid breathing the only sound.
She spun in place and cast the first spell that came to mind – a light-dimming cantrip that should have filled the room with darkness. It remained lit. She tried to summon a flame with her horn, but couldn’t produce even a whiff of smoke. Frantic, she jabbed a hoof at the center of the room, attempting to summon a firework that, had it materialized, would have blown half the building’s façade off.
It didn’t.
Don’t panic, she thought, feeling a scream welling up her throat. We just don’t understand how the torc works yet. No need to panic.
She reached up with a hoof to peel off the torc, and yelped in surprise and pain as it caught on the rim. The skin beneath the necklace was stuck to it – not her coat, her actual skin had fused to the solid metal. Pulling at the torc was like trying to pull off her own horn, and just as effective. Desperate, she tried to magic it off, remembering too late that her magic was gone.
Now was actually looking like an excellent time to panic. The scream that had been hiding in her chest escaped, though her throat was so tight that only a shrill squeak e merged.
Oh no no no no no, her mind stuck in a loop as the realization that her magic wasn’t coming back anytime soon crashed into her. She bucked and kicked frantically, her hooves smashing against the walls and floor as she tried to shake the thing off. She even tried to bite it, but her neck wasn’t quite flexible enough to reach the band with her mouth. Nooooo no no no no no no no…
Desperate times called for desperate measures. She slammed herself against the wall, hoping the impact would jar the torc loose. It didn’t. Thoughtlessly, she banged her hoof against the amethyst until it cracked – her hoof, not the crystal. So great was her panic that she was going through her saddlebags for a knife or other sharp object when a sudden loud knock came from the door.
“Hey! It’s Big Mike. Is everypony alright in there?” came a muffled voice from the other side of the thick door.
That broke through the fog in her mind. If there was one thing Trixie could always do, it was maintain appearances.
“Yes!” she cried. “Just fine! Nothing wrong in here!”
There was a pause. “We heard some odd sounds,” said Big Mike. “Can you open the door?”
Stall! “Not just yet,” she said, “I’m…” she trailed off. Sleeping? Eating? Trying to remove a malicious stolen god-artifact? “…getting dressed,” she finished lamely.
There was another pause. “So? Open up.”
Damn dirt ponies! They had no sense of propriety. She gave the room a quick once-over to make sure there was nothing obviously broken or displaced, and then trotted over to the door. Trying to unlatch the bolt with her mouth rather than her magic was a clumsy and distasteful adventure, but she finally managed to flip the cursed thing and pull the door open.
“Sorry about that,” she said to the yellow mare waiting outside the door. Her voice sounded impressively calm in her mind. “Had a little accident with my saddlebags, but everything is alright now!”
Big Mike gave her a dubious look, her teal eyes narrow as she glanced into the room behind the showmare. Finding nothing immediately amiss, she returned her attention to the unicorn.
“I’m not going to regret letting you stay here, am I?” she asked.
Once again her remarkable ability to antagonize ponies wherever she went reared its ugly head. She forced a smile, and spoke in her most reassuring voice. “No, no, you won’t hear another peep out of this room. In fact, I was just about to come down and pay you in advance…” her attempt at mollification stumbled to a clumsy halt as she noticed the mare was no longer paying attention.
The earth pony was staring at the torc with wide, guileless eyes. Her mouth hung slightly open, as if she were about to speak, but no words were forthcoming. From downstairs, ignored by both mares, came the quiet hum of the slowly filling saloon.
Trixie stood still, afraid to break the spell. Big Mike continued her impression of a statue; only the slow rise and fall of her chest gave any hint that she was alive. Trixie got the feeling they would be standing like this for a while, absent any interruptions.
Because she had plans that didn’t involve standing forever in the hallway with this mare, Trixie finally moved. She turned slightly to the side, just enough to angle the amethyst away from the yellow mare’s gaze. Big Mike flinched slightly, then looked sheepishly into Trixie’s eyes.
“Sorry, didn’t mean to stare,” she said. “That’s a beautiful necklace you have, though. Where did you get it?”
“Family heirloom,” she lied easily, a story instantly assembling itself in her mind. “From my mother’s side. It’s the only piece left of an old fortune, before we fell on hard times.”
The mare nodded slowly, her eyes drifting back to the torc. “Well, be careful wearing it around here. It would be a shame if someone tried to steal it.” She gave Trixie a final, more respectful nod, and returned downstairs to the saloon.
Shameful indeed, she thought.
***
If nothing else, the visit by the bar mare gave Trixie a chance to calm down. The panic she had felt earlier, after trying and failing to remove the torc, still lurked in her mind, but it no longer drove her to foolish lengths.
Still, just because she wasn’t panicking didn’t mean that everything was suddenly fine. The accursed necklace was still bound to her skin and was still blocking her magic, as a quick attempt to levitate her saddlebags revealed. Flummoxed, she lay down on the bed with her hooves tucked under her, and thought.
She still had some magic – simply being alive proved that. History was filled with stories of ponies who, by accident or disease or spell malfunction, had been entirely stripped of magic. It was invariably fatal; something intrinsic to the nature of all ponies required magic to survive. Without it they withered and died in just a few hours, even supposedly non-magical earth ponies.
That didn’t appear to be the case with her, though she would find out for sure in a few hours. No, the torc seemed to block only active spell-casting.
Perhaps it would allow the more subtle arts? She took a deep, calming breath, closed her eyes, and attempted to center herself. When she felt as steady as possible, given the circumstances, she opened her senses to the gentle flows of magic that ran through the world.
Through her still-closed eyes the room gradually resolved as a silver echo of its real form. It lacked the details of reality – the walls were uneven, shifting planes that represented breaks in the free flow of magical energy, rather than actual, physical matter. Through the walls and floor she could see the faint glow of other ponies going about their business.
For years the art had been called Truesight. Later, wiser mages termed it Dreamsight or Silversight, depending on their perspective. There was simply too much dispute over what exactly it revealed. Across the ages, magicians had agreed on only one thing – it was not to be trusted. Unless carefully restrained it showed the viewer what they wanted to see, not what they needed to see.
Hence its common name: Sirensight.
The first thing Trixie noticed was the glowing silver cord emerging from her chest, right where the torc should have been. The lens was absent for some reason in the Sirensight world, though she could still feel its weight around her neck.
The cord pulsed in time with her heartbeat. It rose from her body, weightless, toward the center of the room, where it dipped and vanished into a large stone well. She knew without opening her eyes that the well did not really exist. Like the cord it was simply a metaphor for something she already knew. Sirensight had no ability to reveal new information to the user. It could not, for instance, look into a sealed box, unless the pony using it already knew what was inside. Or what they wanted to be inside.
She stood from the bed with extreme care. Moving while using Sirensight was exceedingly dangerous – it often neglected to show important things like doors, cliffs or traffic. More than one unicorn artist had tried to live entirely through Sirensight; they usually abandoned the experiment after their first major injury.
Still, she was confident she could cross the room safely. With slow, careful steps she walked toward the well. The cord moved with her; it swayed slightly in the air, as though waving in an unseen breeze, but its two ends never left her heart or the well.
She drew close enough to touch the well, and peered over its edge. The cord descended down the hole for what seemed like hundreds of feet before its gentle glow became too dim to see by.
Curious, she attempted a simple spell to summon sparks from her horn. No sparks appeared, but the cord pulsed with a brilliant silver light that flowed down its length into the depths of the well. She tried another, more powerful, spell that resulted in a similar but brighter glow from the cord.
Hm. She opened her eyes and the cord vanished along with the well. The torc was back around her chest, its heavy weight pressing just above her heart. She returned to the bed, lost in thought.
Outside her window the sun touched the horizon. The longest day of the year came to an end.
***
Luna dreamed of the moon.
She could feel it rising as she slumbered. The heavy weight of the sun diminished as the world rotated away from its star. Her namesake called to her; even below the horizon she heard its gentle song. It sang of the night and love and stars. It sang her name, and she woke.
Dozens of ponies in various states of hysteria filled the mayor’s office. Piles of paper were haphazardly collected in any open space that would fit them. Loud voices vied for supremacy as officials, farmers, refugees and townsponies argued over a hundred different problems.
At the center of the storm, behind her desk, sat the mayor of Ponyville. Despite the chaos around her she retained a remarkable poise, and calmly issued orders and verdicts on the issues before her. After spending a year witnessing the pomp and circumstance that surrounded every minor decision in Canterlot, it was refreshing to see such straightforward decision making. Luna only wished the circumstances could have been happier.
The cacophony died as she stood, every pony in the room trailing into silence as they turned to their monarch. Just as suddenly the noise returned tenfold. Finally the mayor shouted the crowd into submission and herded them into the hallway, leaving her alone with the princess.
“Thank Celestia you’re awake,” she said, finally shoving the door shut despite the ponies in its path. “It’s been chaos here ever since you showed up in the woods.”
“How are the others?” Luna asked. “We had most of Canterlot with us.”
“We’re building corrals as fast as we can. By tomorrow we should have enough space for everyone, but quite a few are heading back to Canterlot.”
Luna winced. “Is there anything left to return to?”
The mayor riffled through some papers on her desk, eventually pulling a weather patrol report from a large stack. “About half the city is gone, mostly the parts close to the mountain,” she said. “Fortunately the fires couldn’t spread very far, due to the stone construction. But it’s just not safe to return yet; the mountain is still on fire, and the weather teams say it will be days before they can get close to the keep.”
Luna trotted to the north window. Through it she could see the Saddleback Mountains in the distance. A steady stream of smoke rose from the nearest peak, wider but more diffuse than the one she had seen in the morning.
“And my sister?”
“No word, your majesty. Twilight and Applejack left this morning for Appleloosa, but we haven’t heard anything from them.”
She did some quick math in her head. “They should be almost there by now.”
“Assuming they don’t stop,” the mayor said. “Your majesty, what should we do? I’ve been trying to manage this as best I can, but this is well outside my scope of authority.”
The princess glanced around the room and the hastily organized plans. Outside she heard discussions continuing in the hallway, as ponies attempted to pick up the pieces of the disaster.
“You’re doing very well, mayor,” she finally said. “And I need you to keep doing this. I have to go after her.”
“But… your majesty, I don’t have the authority to do even half of what I’ve been doing! Everypony could ignore me if they wanted to!”
That was an easy fix. Luna trotted over to the door and opened it. The hallway suddenly grew silent.
“Excuse me a moment,” she said. “Until further notice the mayor is acting in my and my sister’s stead. Please serve her as you would serve me.” Before anypony could argue she closed the door, and turned back to the stunned mare.
“There,” she said. “That should suffice for a few days at least, until the aristocrats get back on their hooves. I’d suggest letting them take over recovery efforts in the city once they do, if only to keep them busy.”
“B-but…”
“Just act like you know what you’re doing,” Luna advised. “That’s Celestia’s secret, and it seems to work for her. Now, if you’ll excuse me I’m afraid I have some catching up to do.”
Before the mayor could protest further the alicorn walked out onto the balcony and took to the air. She flew toward the setting sun with speed that would have made Rainbow Dash proud.
***
More than 14 hours after leaving Ponyville to chase down their errant princess, Twilight Sparkle finally found a moment to rest.
The dry desert air cooled rapidly following the sunset. Devoid of clouds, the ground radiated its heat into space at a surprising rate. Desert rats, snakes and hares emerged from their daytime burrows to forage. Nighthawks flew overhead, darting and weaving as they caught insects attracted to the light of the fires.
Twilight noticed none of this. She sat near the edge of the molten pool of rock entombing the silent alicorn. For nearly two hours she slowly crept closer and closer to the fallen princess as the ground cooled and grew dark. By the time the moon reached its zenith she could nearly reach Celestia, though the furnace-like heat of the stone around her mentor eventually forced her to retreat.
She attempted to lift the lava away from the princess with her magic, but it was like trying to carry water with a net. The molten rock splashed around briefly as she stirred it, then flowed back into the crater. She briefly considered attempting to teleport the lava away, before pondering all the possible ways that could backfire. Instead she elected to wait. And talk.
“I don’t know if you can hear me, princess,” she said, “but if you can, I want you to know that we’re going to fix this.”
The wind shifted, blowing smoke and cinders from a nearby fire into her face. Coughing, she circled around the glowing pool to a spot of clear air, and resumed her vigil.
“Applejack’s gone for help, and soon we’ll have an entire town of earth ponies aiding us,” she continued. “We’ll get you out of there and back to Canter…”she trailed off. “Yes, back to Canterlot. We’ll fix the castle--” her voice caught, images of the searing fireball that consumed the palace flashing in her head.
“A-and everything will go back to the way it was.” She smiled hopefully at the unmoving goddess. Tears left faint clean runnels in the dirt and ash coating her face.
More time passed, and the circle of solid rock grew tighter around Celestia. Only a thin rim of molten stone still surrounded her when the moon began its descent from the heights of the sky.
Twilight stood and carefully moved forward, testing each step before letting her weight rest on it. Even though it was firm, the stone was brittle and sharp beneath her hooves, closer to pumice than solid rock. She reached out a hoof, and hesitantly touched it to the tip of Celestia’s horn.
It felt cool. Whatever residual heat it held had long since bled away into the night air.
Buoyed, she pressed her hoof against the princess’s forehead. It was warmer, but nowhere near as hot as the rock she was stuck in. If they could get her out of the ground it would be—
The stone beneath her other leg snapped and sank several inches. Bright yellow light shone on her lavender coat as fresh lava seeped up the cracks and washed over the tip of her hoof.
Panic preceded pain. She jerked back reflexively, sending tiny droplets of lava into the air, and shrieked as her chest convulsed involuntarily. A bolt of horrible, numbing agony shot up her leg as the edge of her hoof flickered with flame. Memories of falling into a firepit, forgotten for nearly a decade, flooded her brain before the searing pain dragged her back into the present.
Fortunately, the pain only lasted a moment. The exhaustion that had stalked her for hours pounced, and a brief feeling of light-headedness was the only warning she had before the world tilted around her, and she collapsed.
She was still lying on the warm stone when Applejack returned, less than an hour later.
***
Trixie was not a happy pony.
After her brief experiment with Sirensight she made a mental list of every spell she knew. Most unicorns would have trouble drafting such a list in their heads, but it was an old exercise for Trixie. Just one more way for her to keep score.
She went down the list, attempting every spell in turn. Not a single one worked. She may as well have been an earth pony.
Whatever else the torc was, it was thorough. She tried sticking her hoof under the rim again, and winced as it stretched the skin painfully. Nothing she tried loosened its grip on her chest – if anything, it seemed to dig deeper. Every beat of her heart was echoed in the faint trembling of light reflecting from the amethyst crystal.
She pulled an old serving cloak from her saddlebags – one of a few souvenirs of her time in the kitchens – and draped it over her shoulders. It didn’t completely hide the torc, but concealed enough to not draw too much attention. The last thing she needed was a crowd of enthralled ponies following her around.
The saloon was moderately crowded when she made her way downstairs, filled with a mix of mares and stallions drinking away their earnings and their cares. A different pony was at the piano, though he apparently also confused it with a drum. Big Mike was nowhere to be seen.
She ignored the music and grabbed a bag of oats from the bar, passing a few bits to a large copper stallion with a wheat sprig cutie mark. He thanked her with the annoying smile earth ponies seemed to be born with.
More ponies trickled in as the night wore on. She finished the oats and was working on a mild ale when a loud commotion outside broke through the clamor of the piano. A large crowd appeared to be gathering in the street.
Curious, she got to her hooves and pushed her way outside. Ahead she heard excited shouting, followed by a small stampede as dozens of ponies charged down the street toward the rail station.
“What’s going on?” she asked a stallion leaning on the saloon railing. He seemed a little too old to be involved in the excitement around them.
“Young filly just ran in,” he said, pointing his hoof toward the crowd. “Said Celestia’s just outside of town...”
Whatever else he might have said was lost. Sounds fell away from the world as his words sank in, replaced by a loud ringing noise. A grey tunnel appeared around the edges of her vision.
Celestia. Here.
How did she know? It didn’t matter. Trixie was doomed. She briefly considered going back up to her room and flinging herself out the window, and then discarded the idea. Her room was only on the second floor.
There was no way out of town, no trains scheduled to leave until morning. Half the ponies in Appleloosa knew of the blue unicorn staying at the inn.
“When does she arrive?” she managed to ask. Her voice sounded distant, as though she were listening to someone else talk.
The stallion shrugged. “No clue,” he said. “The filly spoke to the mayor for a bit, and they all ran off to the train station.” He took a sip from a bottle of sarsaparilla. “Ah wonder what she came for.”
“I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough,” Trixie said. For once she was being perfectly honest.
|
Cold in Gardez
|
1001
| 7 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
|
A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
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complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
|
teen
|
2011-09-28T22:48:03+00:00
|
2011-09-28T22:48:03+00:00
| 4,172 |
“I told you, I’m fine!”
Applejack gave Twilight Sparkle a dubious look. The lavender pony’s coat was beaded with sweat despite the cool night wind. She gulped down rapid, shallow breaths of air, and even from several feet away Applejack could hear the wheezing in her lungs.
“Sugar, don’ take this wrong, but you look like yer about ta fall over,” Applejack said. She paused, and added, “Again.”
“I was just resting!” Twilight protested. Even to her ears it sounded weak. “I can still help!”
Applejack shook her head. Around them dozens of earth ponies hauled wood beams and tools from the train to a small staging area a few dozen yards from Celestia’s unmoving form. Under the direction of a pair of engineer ponies a large wood gantry was slowly taking shape over the molten crater. Four massive beams set several pony-lengths apart supported a wood scaffold high above the ground. A system of pulleys and ropes hung from the center of the structure, dangling just a few feet above the princess. Other ponies, wearing thick leather aprons and face masks, chipped and dug at the soft stone at the edges of the crater, creating channels for the still-liquid rock hiding beneath the surface to flow away.
In the space of less than an hour the ponies of Appleloosa had set up a makeshift camp and were well on their way to unearthing the fallen alicorn. If Twilight hadn’t spent the past year living in an earth pony town, she would have been stunned by their industriousness. Instead she was merely impressed.
She was also hurting badly. A bare spoonful of lava had washed over the rim of her hoof, but it had been enough to burn the nail-like tissue through to the pulp. A sky blue mare with a stethoscope cutie mark had shaved off the most badly damaged portions, and placed a plaster cast around her fetlock. Tiny black spots speckled her coat where drops of molten stone had splashed and eaten into her skin. The scars would likely be permanent, the mare said.
“You can help by listenin’ to the nurse and gettin’ some rest,” Applejack said. “They’ll have the princess dug out of there in a few hours, tops, an’ then we’ll need you ta figure out what’s wrong with her.”
An amber stallion trotted past the two, a thick coil of rope held in his mouth. He set it next to a pile of other rigging equipment being readied for the eventual hoist, and walked over to the two mares. Like most of the earth ponies around them he had an apple-themed cutie mark. It was hard to tell, given her somewhat delirious mental state, but Twilight thought he looked vaguely familiar.
“Cousin Applejack,” he said, nodding to the mare.
She returned the nod. “Cousin Braeburn. Again, ah can’t say thanks enough for all the help ya’ll are providin’.”
“Well shoot, it was a boring night anyway,” he said. His bright green eyes slid over to Twilight, darting from her haggard expression to the charred pits in her coat, down to her hoof cast, and finally back to Applejack.
“How’s your friend? Anything we can do?” he asked Applejack. Twilight opened her mouth, ready to protest.
“Ah think she’ll be fine, once she gits some rest,” Applejack said before Twilight could speak. “Speakin’ of which, any chance we can git a room in town?”
“You two know I can hear you, right?” Twilight asked. She glared back and forth between the two ponies, of whom only Braeburn had the decency to look abashed. Applejack just rolled her eyes.
“Sug, if you’re not gonna take care of yourself, then other ponies are gonna have to do it for ya,” she said. “We’ve both been goin’ almost two days straight now. If you try helpin’ any more you’re just gonna get hurt again. Then what am I supposed to tell Celestia when she wakes up?”
Twilight blinked. That was perhaps the longest speech Applejack had ever delivered in their year-plus of friendship. She tried to formulate a response, but her tongue refused to cooperate. Her eyes watered – from the harsh fumes rising from the molten stone just yards away, she told herself – and she sat back on her haunches, lowering her head so the two earth ponies would not see her distress.
Applejack sighed and gently nudged the stallion. He took the hint, gave her a friendly nuzzle, and retreated back to the laboring herd surrounding Celestia. Distant voices welcomed his return and shouted new directions as their work continued. Alone again with her friend, Applejack sat next to the unicorn, and watched the recovery effort in silence.
“I just w-want t-to help her,” Twilight said, her voice stumbling as she gulped in air. “I’m u-useless,” she finished with a hiccup that shook her body.
Applejack draped a foreleg over the trembling pony, drawing her closer. In the yellow light of the fires and lanterns brought by the townsponies her orange coat appeared nearly white, almost ghostlike in the darkness. She sat with the unicorn until the hiccups and shivering stopped.
“Sug,” she whispered, her warm breath rustling Twilight’s mane. “No one thinks you’re useless. Yer as strong as Big Mac, as loyal as Rainbow Dash, and smarter than anypony I’ve ever met. But you don’t have ta do everythin’ yerself.”
Twilight was silent for a while. The wind shifted to the west, and a draft of fresh, cool air replaced the harsh sulfur tang of the fires. Above them the gentle moon broke through the pall of smoke for the first time that night, bathing them in a faint silver glow infinitely cooler than the hellish glare of the lava.
“Really?” she finally asked. Her voice was quiet, full of equal parts hope and fear.
“Really,” Applejack replied. She hugged the unicorn tighter.
Around them the camp continued to bustle. More ponies arrived on a second train, bringing with them additional lumber and heavier tools, as well as camp supplies like tents, water and food. Applejack watched with an approving eye as they hopped from the cars and leapt into action.
The weight against her side slowly grew heavier. When she finally dared a glance at her friend, Twilight’s eyes were closed and her mouth open, allowing a slight trail of drool to escape.
Applejack smiled and gently lowered the unicorn to the ground. The lavender pony mumbled something unintelligible before drifting back off to sleep. For the first time since the day began, Twilight knew something like peace.
***
Trixie’s mood had improved somewhat over the past few hours. The numerous empty cider glasses on the bar in front of her may have been responsible.
Big Mike was back, collecting glasses from the empty tables and carrying them into the kitchen. Aside from Trixie she was the only pony left in the saloon.
“Hey,” Trixie called, her voice slurred despite her best attempts to sound sober. “Where’d everypony go?”
The bright yellow mare snagged the last empty glass from a table near the door and carried it with her behind the bar. She dropped it in the sink with its brothers before turning to Trixie.
“Home, I guess,” she said. “Or out to see Celestia. That sounded pretty exciting.” She grabbed a fresh towel with her mouth and dropped it on the bar.
Trixie snorted. Or she tried to, at least – what emerged was more of a choking sound accompanied by a toss of her head that would have appeared elegant, were she on stage and not drunk. Big Mike glanced at her in concern, then returned to wiping down the bar.
“S’not exciting yet,” she mumbled. “Wait ‘til she finds me tomorrow! That’ll be exciting.”
“Oh? She came all the way out here, just for you?”
Trixie nodded. Big Mike just rolled her eyes and returned to her wiping.
Drinking with just hooves and mouth was harder than it looked, Trixie decided. The first cider of the night had been an adventure – subsequent glasses had been met with more success, until she could drink most of one without spilling any down her chin. It was progress. Humiliating progress, to be sure, but still progress.
For the hundredth time that night she tried her magic. The glass of cider on the bar refused to budge. She groaned and laid her head on her crossed hooves.
“I think that’s enough for tonight,” Big Mike said. She snagged the glass with cruel ease and pulled it behind the bar before Trixie’s flailing hooves could catch it.
“Trixie really needs that drink,” she pleaded. Big Mike was unmoved.
“I’ll pay extra!” She pulled out her last bits and shoved them across the counter. She wouldn’t need them in the morning, after all.
The barmare pushed them back with her snout, and returned to wiping down the polished wood surface. Trixie cursed under her breath.
From outside the faint sound of hoofbeats intruded. More ponies rushing to meet the princess, Trixie figured. After they passed, the stillness of the bar returned, broken only by the steady wiping motion of the cleaning bartender.
“Is it always this empty in here?” Trixie asked. Big Mike shook her head.
“No, we closed two hours ago.”
Oh. That would explain why the chairs were on top of the tables rather than beneath them. Trixie pondered that with muddled thoughts before turning back to the other mare.
“So why are you still serving Trixie?” She had long since given up on hiding her real name. Something as simple as a pseudonym wasn’t going to save her from Celestia, particularly when the evidence of her theft was glued to her chest.
Big Mike shrugged. “You looked like you needed it. Besides, when else am I going to get to see a drunk unicorn?”
“Unicorn!” Trixie cried. Even drunk and about to be stepped on by an angry god she couldn’t help but infuse her words with the melodrama of the stage. “I don’t deserve the name!” Tiny flecks of cider flew from her lips onto the bar, prompting a frown from the other mare.
“Are all unicorns like you?” Big Mike asked. She put down the rag and seemed genuinely interested in the response.
Trixie waved a hoof dismissively. “They should be so lucky!” She stumbled away from the bar and attempted to strike a pose, one leg extended dramatically into the air. “The Great and Powerful Trixie is the greatest and most powerful Trixie!” She paused. That hadn’t sounded right. “Unicorn!” she corrected.
“But you just said you didn’t deserve—"
“I know!” she wailed, and broke down sobbing.
It was long night for Trixie.
***
The landscape below her was a uniform blur as Luna flew west. Individual trees and hills appeared on the horizon and were behind her faster than she could blink. Larger landmarks like rivers spooled out beneath her like spilled thread, visible only as silver reflections of the moon high above.
No normal pegasus could have reached such speeds, though Rainbow Dash might have put in a respectable showing if they were to race. It wouldn’t have been a fair contest, of course; Luna cheated, using her magic to propel her faster than mere wings ever could.
The terrain changed as she flew, slowly shifting from the stately forests surrounding Canterlot to a mix of fields and woods, then to grassy plains broken only by the occasional tree. By the time larger mountains began to appear the endless grasses gave way to the scrub brush of the desert.
The only unchanging element was the scar Celestia carved in the world. A black sear hundreds of yards wide arrowed its way to the west. Tiny fires still burned around the edges, particularly in the grasslands, and filled the air with reeking ash.
Luna banked around the larger towers of smoke, unworried about losing track of her sister. Even if she were blind she could have followed the path of destruction with her nose.
Eventually the scrub gave way to the gentle hues of the Pastel desert. The streaks of color were visible to her eyes even in the monochrome of night – darkness had never been a barrier to her sight. The stars overhead were a thousand searchlights lighting her way.
The rose tint of morning was creeping into the sky behind her when she found the end of the scorched trail on the side of a large mountain, nearly a hundred miles inside the desert. An irregular, broken ring of fire hundreds of feet across circled a brightly lit camp, around which she could barely make out the tiny shapes of ponies working on some sort of scaffolding. At the very center, surrounded by a pool of glowing stone…
Luna’s eyes widened. Her wings doubled their effort, and she fell like a shooting star down to her sister.
***
Twilight Sparkle slept uneasily.
The trials of the day haunted her dreams. She watched in horror, again and again, as Canterlot died in a wash of flames. The stately marble buildings of her home became the city’s pyre, the pall of smoke its funeral shroud. The sun set forever, surrendering the world to a night without moon or stars. Only the loveless, ravenous fires remained.
She stirred in her sleep. Her eyes cracked open for a moment before she fell back into unconsciousness and dreams.
She chased a tiny, floating star through a maze of shattered buildings. Crumbling, derelict ruins rose on either side, squeezing her within narrow streets that twisted and turned without design. The flickering light darted into an alley, and when she followed she found it hovering in a city square not unlike those of Canterlot. As she approached the ruins collapsed into dust, revealing a barren, desert wasteland stretching for miles around.
The dream shifted again, and she stood on a tiny island of stone, surrounded by a field of lava. The molten rock bubbled as it slowly rose, eating away at the island until nothing remained but the ground beneath her hooves. She lifted one hoof, then another, and finally attempted to balance on a single leg. Her outstretched hooves reached for the silent stars as though begging them for aid. The lava rose again and…
A strangled scream escaped her throat as she fully woke. Her hoof throbbed beneath its cast in time with her pulse, like some inconsiderate pony was stomping on it several times a second. Sweat drenched her coat despite the chill of the desert night, and she started to shiver again as the memories of fire and lava fled.
Applejack was at her side a moment later. The orange pony wrapped her arms around Twilight in a gentle hug, and held her until the worst of the shaking passed.
“Easy sug,” she whispered. “Was just a dream.”
Twilight drew a trembling breath. “But it wasn’t,” she said. “Canterlot is gone, Celestia is…” she trailed off, looking at the fallen princess.
“Celestia is fine,” Applejack said, her voice filled with its usual confidence. “We’re all gonna be fine.”
Twilight didn’t answer. It wasn’t polite to call a friend a liar. Still, she didn’t object to the earth pony’s comforting presence beside her. Together they watched as the herd of ponies readied for the difficult job of cracking the stone around Celestia and lifting her from the earth.
“They’re almost ready,” Applejack said. “Once the sun’s up they’ll start usin’ the heavier tools and tackle to get her outta there. With any luck we’ll be in Appleloosa by noon.”
That seemed optimistic to Twilight. She was about to say so when a faint whistling sound filled the desert air, like wind rushing through a mountain gorge.
“Do you hear—" she started to ask.
A dark streak fell from the skies, impacting with a titanic crash that shattered rock and shook the earth for hundreds of yards around. Ponies shouted in alarm and fell to their knees; the wooden gantry swayed ominously, but the ropes and anchors securing it held against the violent quaking. The thin crust of hot stone surrounding Celestia cracked and flowed, the dark rock broken by fissures glowing with an evil yellow light.
“’TIA! SISTER!” a frantic, feminine voice thundered from within the cloud of dust that surrounded the impact site. The crack of hooves against rock and the rumble of tumbling stones followed, and a moment later Luna’s dark form emerged, scrambling toward the molten pit.
The regal princess of the moon was gone. To Twilight’s eyes Luna more closely resembled the Nightmare of old: her wings, fully extended, nearly doubled her size; her horn, wicked and sharp, glinted in the light of the fires. In the darkness she was a monster, a colossal raven fallen from the ancient night.
The impression lasted only a moment. The alicorn half-ran, half-crawled across the broken ground to her sister. She splashed through the lava like it was water, eliciting horrified shouts from the watching ponies.
“’TIA!” She grabbed the white alicorn around the neck and tried to lift her from the stone, but only succeeded in pulling herself deeper. She snarled at the impudent lava and stomped at it with her hooves, sending droplets of the stone flying.
Twilight recovered first. Even as the other ponies scrambled back in fear she ran to the edge of the pit, ignoring the spray of lava.
“Luna!” she shouted. “Luna! Stop!”
The princess spun to face the unicorn, her eyes wide and shining in the baleful light. Her form shimmered in the heat rising from the lava now broken and exposed again to the cool desert air.
“Twilight?” the princess ventured. The thin, superheated air distorted her voice, making it sound childlike to Twilight’s ears.
Twilight nodded. “We’re trying to help her, like you asked.” She raised a hoof and beckoned the princess. “Please come out of there, you’re scaring us.”
Luna looked down, and then around, as if noticing for the first time that she was knee deep in molten stone. She gave her sister a quick glance, but nevertheless turned back to Twilight and slowly waded out of the pool. Droplets of lava ran from her pelt in thin streams as she emerged, or hardened in place and broke off with a faint clatter that reminded Twilight of wind chimes. Although her coat was unmarred by the heat, the metal shoes she wore glowed a bright orange against the dark ground, and only slowly cooled to their normal bluish-silver.
“I’m sorry,” she said. She turned back toward her sister. “I just… forgot myself for a moment. Was she like this since you found her?”
Twilight shook her head. “She was still flying when we caught her. As soon as the sun set she fell. We’ve been trying to get her out ever since.”
Applejack walked up beside her friend. She started to approach the princess, but shied away from the residual heat radiating from Luna’s body.
“We’ll have heavier tools here by mornin’,” she said. Once they’re in place we cin drain the lava and git her hoisted outta there.”
Luna stared at the pony, then turned to survey the camp, noticing for the first time the huge gantry suspended over Celestia’s still form. The other ponies slowly resumed their tasks, occasionally casting wary glances in her direction.
“This is impressive,” she finally said. “Celestia would be very proud of what you two have accomplished.”
Twilight winced. Applejack coughed politely.
“You should thank the town, yer majesty,” she said. “They did most of the work.”
And I did nothing, Twilight thought. She gave the princess a subdued bow, and returned to her silent vigil at the edge of the pool. The sky to the east slowly grew lighter.
***
Celestia’s dreams were troubled.
She did not have nightmares, per se. She could not have nightmares; her absence defined the night, and it held no power over her. But she could know loss, and bereavement, and it was those two hollow emotions that plagued her sleep.
Fragments of memories long buried teased at her mind. Images from before she was a princess, before the stars gifted her with the torc and the new life it brought.
The memories played in her mind, appearing and dissolving before she could fully grasp them. Slowly they began to fade, replaced with the unusual sensation of being trapped in a warm embrace. She was surrounded by some incredibly hot material, which itself brought back memories of the time before.
Finally her thoughts cleared, and she opened her eyes to the dwindling darkness of the desert at dawn.
***
“Twi… twilight?”
The faint sound of her name broke through Twilight Sparkle’s moping. She looked up, expecting to see Applejack or Luna returning to cheer her up, but they were both occupied with the rescue effort. They were helping – actually making a difference. Unlike her.
She turned back to the pool when she heard her name again. From within the pool.
Celestia’s eyes were open but unfocused. Her head twisted slightly in the lava, though the stone had cooled to the point that it was nearly solid at the surface, and held her in place.
“Twilight?” she tried again. Her free wing fluttered weakly as she tried unconsciously to fly out of the entrapping earth.
“Princess?” Twilight said, stunned. “Princess! CELESTIA!” The other ponies turned toward her in alarm.
“Applejack!” She spun in place, looking for her friend. “She’s awake, Applejack! She’s awake!”
Luna beat the earth pony to Twilight’s side by a wide margin. She hesitated only for a moment before stepping onto the thin crust atop the lava, using her wings to support most of her weight as she walked out to her sister. She lowered her head to press against Celestia’s neck and said something, though Twilight was too far to hear her words. After a moment she pulled herself together and straightened, and spoke loud enough for the gathering ponies to hear.
“This trial is over, sister. Just rest and we’ll have you out of there shortly.”
Celestia’s mouth opened, though no sound emerged. Twilight leaned as far forward as she dared over the hot crust.
“It’s okay, take your time,” Luna said, encouragingly. “We’re here to help. We’re all here to help.”
Celestia shook her head slightly. Luna’s brow furrowed.
“We are,” she said, louder. “We’re going to get you back to Canterlot and everything will be fine. Please believe me.”
The white alicorn’s eyes were wide, the whites showing fully around her pinprick pupils. She tried again, and finally managed to speak.
“Run,” she whispered.
Luna stumbled back, her hooves breaking through the thin crust atop the lava. She stared at her sister in shock.
“What? No, we’re here to help!” she said. “We’re going home, sister. Please just wait.”
Twilight looked between the two princesses. Her joyous thoughts had come to a crashing halt. The other ponies murmured in confusion.
“What’d she say?” Applejack asked.
“She said…” Twilight started, then trailed off. She looked at the princess, then the slowly lightening sky to the east. Her thoughts flashed back to 24 hours earlier, during the Summer Sun Celebration, when Celestia attempted to begin the day.
Dawn was less than an hour away.
“Oh no,” she mumbled. Hundreds of ponies pressed closer, trying to get a view of their princess. Luna was shouting at her sister again, trying to make sense of her whispered warning.
“Applejack, we need to get out of here!” She pushed her way to back to the front of the crowd. “Luna! Luna we need to run!”
Luna tossed her an annoyed glance. “Calm down, Twilight, she’s just confused. We’ll keep digging and—"
“No!” Twilight interrupted. “The sun is rising! It’s like Canterlot!”
Luna blinked at her, and turned to her struggling sister. She stared for a moment, then tilted her head to the east and the rising glow of dawn. A moment later she spun back to face Twilight, understanding and panic written on her face.
“How do we—" she started.
“The train,” Twilight blurted. “If we leave everything behind there should be space for everypony. Applejack, can you--”
“On it, sug,” Applejack interrupted her in turn. The nearest ponies were already spreading the word and rushing to the train. There were a few protests from the engineer ponies, but they were quickly overridden as the others reminded them of what happened to Canterlot. Within minutes the entire camp had been abandoned, except for Twilight and the two princesses. A steady trail of ponies led to the train, which was already being emptied of extra cargo and hitched to the conductors.
“Luna, you need to come too,” Twilight said. She edged closer to the molten pit. Faint shimmers of heat were beginning to rise from Celestia’s exposed head and wing. “We don’t have long.”
“I’ll be fine, Twilight.”
“Princess, you saw what happened to Canterlot. We need to leave now.”
“I said I’ll be fine,” Luna growled. She mantled her wings. “I can fly.”
“I know, princess. But how long can you stay awake?”
Luna stared at her sister in silence for a long moment, then at the brightening sky to the east. Finally she sighed.
“Very well. Let’s go.”
Several minutes later they were the last two to reach the train. It was crowded, with just two passenger cars for several dozen ponies, but they made room without complaint. Twilight found Applejack near the rear of the train, where the conductor ponies were settling into their harnesses.
“Why are they behind the train?” she asked. “Do they need to push for some reason?”
Applejack gave her an odd look. “You don’t push trains, sugar,” she said. “They’re gonna pull us east, so we’re outta Celestia’s way if she keeps moving west.”
Twilight thought about that for a moment. It was logical and smart, so it should have been no surprise that the earth ponies would make that decision, but something nagged at her mind.
“Isn’t Appleloosa to the west?” she asked. The ponies around her suddenly grew silent. Applejack went pale beneath her coat.
“Oh hay,” she mumbled. She muscled her way to the edge of the car and shouted down at the conductors. “Braeburn! Change of plans! We’re going west! And step on it!”
***
Trixie woke up, to her mild surprise, on her bed in the saloon.
She had half expected to wake up in a dungeon, or in chains in a paddy wagon heading back to Canterlot. And that was if she was lucky – Celestia might simply decide that swiftness is its own virtue, and rip the torc from her chest in a gory display of justice.
She reached a hoof up to her breast to touch the torc. Still there. She tried her magic. Still not there.
The sky outside her window was dim, though the faint tint of dawn could be seen in the east. Loud voices, the same that had woken her, drifted up from the street. Apparently ponies got to work early in Appleloosa.
She got up and trotted to the window long enough to close the shutters. She was halfway back to her bed when a frantic knocking of hooves came from her door.
She had known this was coming. Ever since last night, when they told her Celestia was near, she knew it was only a matter of time. The knocking repeated.
“I’m coming,” she called. “I give up.” She threw the latch and opened the door, ready to surrender to the guards on the other side.
Big Mike stood alone in the hallway. She gave the showmare an odd look.
“That’s… great,” she said. “But we need to go. The mayor’s ordered an evacuation.”
“Huh?” Trixie replied. It was not her best moment.
“Something went wrong with Celestia. I don’t have all the details but apparently she’s crazy and now we need to get out of here.”
“…huh?”
The small mare sighed. “Look, just grab your stuff and meet me downstairs. The last train leaves in ten minutes.” She turned and trotted down the stairs, muttering something beneath her breath. Trixie only caught the word “unicorns.”
Trixie stood, rooted to the floor, for a full minute. All the possible meanings and implications of Big Mike’s message and the evacuation ran through her head. Another shout from downstairs finally kicked her into motion. She grabbed her saddlebags and cloak, wrapping the latter around her chest and head to hide her torc and horn. It wasn’t a perfect disguise, or even a good one, but with any luck it would keep casual observers from realizing she wasn’t an earth pony.
Big Mike was waiting for her when she reached the stairs, and together they trotted out into the gloom of the desert morning. Only a few ponies were left, readying saddlebags with personal treasures and other belongings for the evacuation. Judging by the piles of household goods in the street, there wasn’t much room in the trains for anything but ponies and what they could carry.
“Come on, they’ll be waiting for us,” Big Mike said. They walked briskly down the empty streets to the last train, a simple affair with five passenger cars, the first four of which were already full. The head of the train was a bustle of activity, all of it centered on an unusually tall pegasus with a horn.
Trixie stumbled as her legs locked up. Big Mike stopped a few paces ahead, looking back at her in concern.
“What’s wrong?” she asked.
“Nothing, just tired,” she lied. The two trotted the rest of the way to the train, while Trixie studiously avoiding looking toward the indigo alicorn directing the evacuation effort. They were given seats in the final car, which was only half full, just minutes before the last ponies in Appleloosa boarded.
The train pulled away from the town with surprising speed. Apparently they were in a hurry. Trixie said so to an older brown stallion standing next to her.
“Ayup,” he responded. “If you’d seen what we did out there with Celestia, you’d be running too.”
“I beg your pardon?” Trixie said. She and Big Mike sidled closer to the stallion. The town receded in the distance behind them, lit from behind by the gentle glow of the rising sun.
He sighed. “Well, I don’t know how much of this is true, but…” he started, and launched into a description of the desert encampment.
For perhaps the first time in her life, Trixie knew true fear.
***
After the other ponies left, Celestia had a few minutes to herself.
On the one hoof, she was glad her sister and Twilight fled so rapidly. Their chances of escape were better if they left right away, rather than lingering out of some false hope that her warning was a mistake. Thousands of years of life as the ruler of Equestria had taught Celestia a certain pragmatism and acceptance of life’s trials, but she couldn’t bear the thought of being responsible for hurting her beloved student.
On the other hoof, they had abandoned her rather quickly, and now she was alone. She couldn’t be upset with them – she’d demanded it, after all. It would be rather petty of her to expect somepony to stay and provide her with company, only to be incinerated a few minutes later. But still, it would have been nice to have somepony to talk to.
She realized she wasn’t thinking straight. The rays of the sun, refracted though they were through the atmosphere, were already interfering with her thoughts. She could hear it singing to her from below the horizon, now just minutes from rising. Soon she would be alive again.
The torc called to her. It was close now, just a dozen or so miles away. A few minutes of flying and it would be hers; she could be whole. This nightmare would become a thing of the past.
The sky to the east caught fire as the tip of the sun broke over the mountains. The first light of dawn washed over her like a gentle rain, cleansing away the complex thoughts that bedeviled her mind. Only the torc remained.
She was confused, at first. Solid matter, an anathema to her nature, somehow held her trapped. It liquefied within moments and she stepped out of the burning crater with ease. A new river of lava flowed from the mountainside beneath her like an open wound.
She fanned her wings, stretching them to catch the sun’s light. It filled her with power and life, and set a spark to the star burning within her breast. The princess that her subjects called Celestia vanished, and a god was reborn.
The mountainside ignited as she lifted into the sky. The pitiful, oxygen-based flames quickly suffocated as the air around her superheated to a near vacuum, only to be replaced by hotter fires as the minerals within the rocks began to decompose and react with each other. Within seconds the ground beneath her was a bubbling slag of lava for hundreds of yards around.
She rose above the mountains and paused. A brilliant sphere a dozen feet wide appeared around her; the rarified air literally glowed as it absorbed and reemitted her radiance. She ignored the light (it was hers, after all), and concentrated on the sensation of the missing torc, so close it practically felt beneath her.
It was to the west, she eventually decided. The glowing sphere broke apart and vanished as she moved through the air. A burning contrail followed in her wake.
For the first time in her reign, Celestia came to visit Appleloosa.
***
“Where does this train lead?” Luna asked. Her voice slurred as the weight of the sun pressed against her mind.
“Las Pegasus,” Applejack replied. “It’s a long ride, though. We’ll prolly git there after dark.”
Luna nodded. “Please tell me it’s not due west of here.”
“Nope. It’s quite a bit north of here, actually. As long as Celestia keeps goin’ west, we’ll be fine.”
“What is west of here, anyway?” Twilight asked. She mentally reviewed the library’s maps in her mind, but as far as she could remember there were no major cities or settlements in the direction Celestia was heading.
“More desert, then some mountains, then the ocean,” Braeburn said. He had joined them in the lead car as they pulled away from Appleloosa. “There’s no big cities out there. Or small ones!”
“So where is she going?” Twilight asked. None of the others could answer.
***
Appleloosa was mercifully empty when Celestia arrived.
The wooden buildings didn’t last long enough to greet her. They began to smoke before she got within a mile of the town. The painted facades crisped to a uniform black as they ignited, sending a column of smoke high into the sky before the terrible hurricane of winds surrounding her tore it to shreds.
The once-princess landed on the outskirts of the town near the rail station. The ground crackled beneath her hooves, liquefying and later resolidifying into a curious glassy mineral eventually named “Applelite,” in honor of the town’s memory. The buildings ceased to burn as she approached, and simply turned to ash.
The torc was here somewhere. She could smell its magic, taste the metal bonds that held its matrix together against the furnace in her heart. It had been here just hours ago. The very ground reeked of its presence.
She searched the town, briefly. By that point Appleloosa was a rapidly expanding cloud of gas, and wasn’t able to conceal much from her view. The few metal objects owned by the earth ponies, such as the anvil in the blacksmith’s shop, lasted several minutes longer before eventually evaporating along with every other bit of solid matter in the town.
The torc was gone. She was so close, and yet so far.
The tiny star that was Celestia rose again into the sky, circling the glowing remains of the town. Wider and wider she gyred, her senses extended to listen for the tiny bit of magic that would complete her.
There, to the west. Again to the west. She angled her wings, pointless though they were, and shot through the air in pursuit. It called to her, the torc. It wanted her as much as she wanted it.
Celestia flew to her birthright.
|
Cold in Gardez
|
1001
| 8 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
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A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
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complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
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teen
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2011-10-22T04:52:39+00:00
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2011-10-22T04:52:39+00:00
| 5,130 |
The First Light of Dawn
Chapter 8: Revelations
Twilight Sparkle watched in numb silence as Appleloosa died.
In a way it was worse than the destruction of Canterlot. The immolation of Celestia’s city was shocking and unexpected, its horror abated by the chaos and confusion that had gripped them. It had taken hours for the immensity of their loss to sink in.
Not so with Appleloosa. Twilight and the hundred other ponies escaping by train were forewarned, and could do nothing but watch as the town vanished in fire and light. The rising sun behind the town was eclipsed by a mountain of smoke. Even twenty miles away it cast its shadow upon the train.
For hours they watched. The towering black clouds rose impossibly high into the air, eventually flattening and drifting away as they brushed the edge of the stratosphere. The entire world to the east was hidden behind the pall, like an enormous ashen curtain drawn across the land. An acrid reek stung eyes and filled nostrils, and the bright pastel colors of the ponies around her slowly turned sodden and lifeless.
A hellish glow lit the base of the smoke, shining bright as the hidden sun behind it. The living furnace that was Celestia still walked through the streets of Appleloosa, though to what end Twilight could only guess. The blinding light faded as the train pulled further away, and as noon approached the real sun finally broke through the haze high above them.
“You alright, Sug?” came a quiet voice to her side. She turned to see Applejack, her eyes red-rimmed and her orange coat dull and smeared, looking at her with concern.
Was she? Twilight took her time before answering. The shock of watching yet another town vanish in flames was simply the latest crisis they had stumbled through over the past two days. Had it only been 48 hours ago she and her friends were walking to Canterlot for the Summer Sun Celebration? How could the world have changed so quickly?
She took a deep breath, and coughed as the harsh air assaulted her lungs. Unlike the other ponies she still had trouble with the fumes wafting from the distant fires. Applejack politely waited while she recovered.
“I’m fine, Applejack,” she finally croaked. The earth pony looked dubious, but held her tongue.
They spent a quiet moment watching the roiling smoke. Most of the other ponies on the train did the same; all had long since stopped crying openly, and mourned the loss of their homes in silence.
“So what do we do now?” Applejack asked.
“I don’t know. Get to Las Pegasus and wait for Luna to wake up, I suppose. Maybe Rainbow Dash will be back from wherever Luna sent her by then.”
“That’s a lotta flyin’ for one pegasus,” Applejack observed.
Twilight silently agreed. She glanced over at Luna. The alicorn remained asleep. A faint layer of ash smothered her shining coat and feathers.
“If this pattern holds Celestia will collapse when the sun sets,” Twilight said. “We’ll have a full night to figure something out. Luna might even be able to delay the sunrise, though that’s not a good long-term plan…” she trailed off. An excited murmur replaced the silence of the car.
Far to the east, the glow at the base of the smoke was rising into the air. It lit the column from within, like the world’s largest jack-o-lantern. After a moment it broke through, and a tiny spark as bright as the sun emerged into the sky.
It was hard to tell, Twilight thought, but it seemed to be following them.
***
Trixie was a smart pony. It didn’t take her long to put two and two together.
From her seat in the back of the train she had the best view in the house as Appleloosa ceased to exist. Not having seen Canterlot’s destruction, it was shocking and impressive to behold. And quite horrifying.
She had spent less than a full day in the town. She had only been in one building. It should have meant nothing to her, no more than any of the other hamlets or burgs she visited while performing. A one-night stand on a municipal scale. Still it shocked her.
Beside her Big Mike leaned against the railing, her forelegs draped over the side of the car. The mare had watched the unfolding calamity in silence. Even when nothing remained to see but the slowly rising ocean of smoke, she watched. Her eyes remained sharp despite the chemical sting in the wind blowing from the fires.
Trixie wetted her mouth. Just a few moments of breathing the dry desert air was enough to parch her. “Are you…” she trailed off. For some reason her throat closed around the words. She cleared it, and tried again.
“Are you okay?” she asked the bar mare. Big Mike’s lemon yellow coat had faded to old parchment beneath the ash and dust.
“Hm?” She didn’t look away from the smoke. Above them the sun pierced weakly through the smog. “Yeah, I’m fine.”
She didn’t sound fine, Trixie thought. She didn’t look fine, for that matter. Nopony on the train did.
She tried again. “So, where does this train go, anyway?”
“Las Pegasus,” Big Mike said quietly. “Never been there.”
Silence stretched between them. The train rocked slightly as a stiff gust of wind pushed at the cars. Trixie took another stab at conversation.
“Is that a pegasus town?” She kicked herself mentally. Is that a pegasus town? Seriously?
“No, just earth ponies. Apparently they liked the name.”
Silence again. Big Mike seemed happy with it, and Trixie reluctantly returned to her own thoughts.
Two nights ago she had stolen Celestia’s torc, the most powerful magical item Luna said she had ever seen. A few hours later, according to the ponies at the dig site, Celestia had gone crazy, burning Canterlot to the ground before flying west. The same direction Trixie had gone. With the torc.
She tried to pry her hooftip under the torc again. A burst of pain radiated from the touch, and she lowered her shaking hoof back to the floor. It was like trying to peel off her horn. A thin crimson line trickled down her coat to paint tiny flowers on the weathered wood floor. She shifted her shawl to conceal the blood.
Presumably there was a magical way to remove the torc, but the only other unicorn on the train, as far as she knew, was Luna, and she couldn’t very well approach the princess with her problem. Not until every other avenue was exhausted.
“No unicorns?” she asked, trying to sound nonchalant. Big Mike turned to look at her.
She was slow to answer. “A few, I suppose. It’s a big town, after all. Almost a city.”
Trixie allowed herself a small smile. “That’s good to hear.”
Behind them the incandescent glow began slowly rising from the ruins of Appleloosa, setting the sky aflame. Her smile faded like the stars before the sun.
***
Rainbow Dash had never been a fan of long-distance flying.
Speed was more her thing, as she frequently reminded her friends. She was the fastest pony in Equestria, but only for as long as it took to impress onlookers. After that she was more of a glider, followed shortly by a napper.
It had taken most of a day to fly from Ponyville to the Roof of the World. The flight back was faster, thanks to the huge altitude boost she got from the mountain, as well as a helpful tailwind that pushed her briskly to the south. The extra speed was helpful, but her body still shook with the strain of flying again after two full days without sleep.
By the end of the first hour her back was sore with the effort of staying aloft. Each flap sent a twinge of pain shooting up the sides of her spine to her neck. The thin air at her height made flying faster, but it also made breathing harder. A faint wheeze built in her chest; her lungs protested their abuse.
In through the nose, out through the mouth, she repeated, mantra-like. Tiny icicles formed around her nostrils.
By the second hour trees began to reappear below, where they clung precariously to the sides of the mountains. Their long, wind-warped branches waved to her in passing. The pain in her back extended lower, tugging at her pelvis.
To distract herself from the growing discomfort she replayed the stars’ advice in her mind. The last thing she wanted to do was find Luna and not remember what exactly they had said.
Trixie has the torc near Las Pegasus, she thought. Some paraphrasing was appropriate, she decided. Get it back and Celestia will be fine. Oh, and stay away when she’s awake. That last part was probably unnecessary, but she had seen her friends attempt crazier things.
By the start of the fourth hour she could no longer keep her forelegs raised to split the air. The wind doubled its assault against her creaking wings. She slowed as much as she dared, and slipped through the turbulence in search of a better tailwind.
An hour later her wings began to burn with fatigue. Her pinions shook furiously as she lost control of the tiny muscles anchoring them. She compensated by folding her wings slightly. It was terrible form and would have earned her a harsh lecture in flight school, but she was too tired to care.
Trixie has the torc near Las Pegasus. Noon arrived. Her head slumped, no longer able to look forward. The ground was more interesting to watch anyway, she rationalized. Below her the lunar landscape of the mountains faded beneath aspen forests. A million green and silver leaves winked at her.
A sparkling river wound through the valleys far below. She was fairly certain a river had been the halfway point between the roof and Ponyville. Unfortunately there were quite a few rivers along her route. She swore to never again make fun of Twilight for her love of maps.
Get it back and Celestia will be fine. The sun slowly slipped to the west, vanishing briefly behind a bank of gauzy clouds. Her wing joints felt like they were filled with glass. Each stroke was an agony. She settled for gliding for long periods of time, taking detours to gain altitude from the updrafts wafting up from the exposed stone of the highest mountains. It was slower, but she couldn’t afford to stop and rest.
A curious hawk, taking a break from its daily hunt, shadowed her flight for a few miles. She only noticed it when its banded body passed under her. Eventually it grew tired and went back to doing whatever it is hawks do.
Stay away when she’s awake. The first farm appeared below her, a vineyard filled with rows of grapes, their leaves wide and thick with the promise of summer. She longed to dive down to them and snatch a few for a snack, but she knew she’d never be able to take off again once she landed. This was a non-stop flight.
Two hours later she felt like she was going to die. Part of her wouldn’t have minded. Her legs dangled numbly from her body. Her vision swam like a fish, and it was all she could do not to crash from sheer exhaustion. Every beat of her wings was a nail driven into her back. She had to synchronize her breathing around her flapping – the stabbing pain made it impossible to inhale.
She cried for a while, until the whipping winds dried all her tears. The ground was only a greenish smudge through her clenched eyes. Trixie has the torc near Las Pegasus…
It was almost a surprise when the outskirts of Ponyville appeared below her. She barely had time to descend into a skidding crash that deposited her in the crowded town square.
The cobblestones, hard as they were, felt like the softest of clouds beneath her. Feeling slowly returned to her legs as pooled blood re-circulated. A million stabbing needles replaced the numbness, but she was too tired to care.
Ponies were shouting, she realized. A small crowd had gathered around her, and somepony was running their hooves over her body, starting at her head and moving down her neck and torso. She opened her eyes long enough to make out a white pony with a red cross for a cutie mark. Some wonderful soul placed a dish filled with water next to her head, and she managed to stick her snout into it. Most of it she spilled, but enough got into her mouth to provide a measure of relief.
She closed her eyes for a moment, and when they opened the mayor was sitting next to her. Fluttershy and the white pony from before were talking in the background, though Rainbow Dash was too far away to hear what they said.
“…you hear me?” The mayor’s face was just inches from Dash’s. Her eyes were wide as she took in the pegasus’s condition.
“I’m fine,” she lied. Her words came out as a hoarse whisper, rougher even than her normal scratchy voice. “Where’s Luna?”
The mayor stared at her blankly. Fluttershy and the white pony – Nurse Redheart? – stopped talking and turned to look at her.
“Rainbow Dash,” the mayor said, “Luna left for Appleloosa last night.”
She pondered that for a moment. Was screaming appropriate at a time like this? She decided it was, but twin lances of pain in her sides kept her from drawing a deep enough breath to try. Instead she closed her eyes and sobbed.
But only for a moment. Ignoring the shooting pain in her back, she slowly pushed herself up into a sitting position. Her wings splayed out beside her. They barely twitched when she tried moving them.
“Um, I think you should lie back down, Rainbow Dash,” a soft voice said. She looked up to see Fluttershy in front of her. The look on the yellow pegasus’s face was more serious than Dash could ever recall seeing.
“Can’t,” she grunted. After a few false starts she managed to get her rear legs under her. “Gotta get to Luna.”
“Luna’s very far away, Dash,” Fluttershy said. She moved to stay in front of Dash’s awkward, lurching steps. “And I think you need to rest.”
“Not gonna happen.” She ignored the grinding pain in her back and lifted her wings, and flapped with all the strength she could muster.
When she opened her eyes again she was back on the cobblestones. Her back and wings felt like someone had peeled the muscles from her bones. Fluttershy and Redheart were off to the side, directing a pair of earth ponies carrying a stretcher.
“Please,” she croaked as they approached. The earth ponies set the stretcher down next to her. “You don’t understand. I need to get to Luna. I have to tell her what the stars said!”
“Silly Dashie,” came a perky voice from beside her. When she turned Pinkie Pie was seated next to the mayor, who seemed as shocked as the pegasus by the pink pony’s arrival. “Just have Spike send her a message.”
Have Spike… Oh. Ohhhh! That sounded much easier than flying to Appleloosa. The thought was so wonderful she didn’t even complain as they loaded her belly-down onto the stretcher.
The still-burning fires of Canterlot, miles away though they were, filled the sky with streams of smoke and ash. The sunset that evening – a wild tempest of yellows, oranges, reds and purples – was the most beautiful anypony in the town had ever seen.
***
The spark that was Celestia stopped following the Appleloosan refugees some time ago, around the time the tracks angled north toward Las Pegasus. From her vantage point on the train, Twilight Sparkle saw the errant princess pause in her flight, like an uncertain firefly puzzling over which blade of grass to land upon.
Eventually the setting sun made Celestia’s decision for her. She flickered as the sun touched the horizon, and a few minutes later her light went out. A flash like the glint of sunlight on water lit the horizon, followed by a small column of smoke that rose from her new resting place. Even from dozens of miles away the ponies on the train heard the echoing clap of thunder as she crashed to the desert floor.
“It’s just like last night,” Twilight said to Luna, who watched groggily from her seat beside the lavender unicorn. The lesser princess had woken just minutes before her sister plunged to the ground.
“Why d’ya think she stopped followin’ us?” Applejack asked from Twilight’s other side. She had brushed the dusting of ash from her Stetson hat, and ignored the identical layer blemishing her orange coat. Twilight was pretty sure there was some deep insight into earth pony psychology there.
“Who knows,” she said. “Maybe we just both happened to be going west? We were following her the first day, remember?”
“She stopped in Appleloosa,” Luna said. She rose to her feet and spread her wings to catch the light of the rising moon. The layer of dust and ash coating her faded away, leaving only a lustrous indigo magnificence behind. Her mane flowed like a dark corona, speckled with stars. Twilight suddenly felt every speck of dirt ground into her filthy coat.
“She must have wanted something there,” the alicorn continued, oblivious to Twilight’s sidelong glances. “Something she didn’t find.”
The train rocked gently as it rolled across the desert floor. A line of mountains rose in the distance ahead. As the sun’s light fell from the sky another dim glow took its place – the lights of Las Pegasus, now less than an hour away.
Time enough for some answers.
“Princess,” Twilight said, “what happened to Celestia?”
Luna flinched. Her mane drew around her protectively, and several minutes of tight silence passed before she answered.
“I don’t know, Twilight. All my life I’ve known her, and she has never been anything but the princess we always knew. She has certainly never done this.”
Twilight chewed on that for a while. “What do you mean, ‘this’?” she asked.
Luna waved a hoof behind them. “Losing control. Forgetting herself. I don’t know, Twilight, take your pick.” She sighed. “I watch her raise the sun every day, but still it is so easy to forget what she is.”
“What she is? Aren’t you selling yourself short? I watched you walk through lava like it was water back there.”
“Foals’ play,” Luna muttered. “I am not my sister, Twilight. She is beyond me.” The alicorn settled back onto her haunches, her morose gaze locked on the distant pillar of smoke floating above her sister’s repose.
***
“So what’s the plan, sug?”
Twilight Sparkle winced at the question. She’d known it was coming ever since they stepped off the train in Las Pegasus. The mayor had greeted them – well, she had greeted Luna, who was standing next to them, and together they retreated to a local government office to discuss the twin problems of the Appleloosan refugees and the threat posed by Celestia.
While Luna spoke with the mayor and her aides, Applejack and Twilight went in search of food. They found a street vendor outside selling a variety of unhealthy junk food – hay fries, candied carrots, apple cakes and the like. Twilight’s stomach growled embarrassingly loud at the sight of the food, and she was just about to beg the vendor for a meal when Applejack surprised her by pulling a small purse from her mane. They retreated with their treats across the street to a park, still lit for the night and filled with dozens of ponies from Appleloosa.
She took a large bite from her apple fritter the moment she heard Applejack’s question, partly because she was famished, but mostly to buy time to come up with an answer. Unfortunately all she could think about was the delicious taste of molten apples and cinnamon. And a hint of nutmeg.
Applejack waited patiently while she chewed. Seeing that her friend wasn’t going to simply forget the question, Twilight swallowed her mouthful and let out a sigh.
“I have no idea, AJ,” she said. “We don’t know what happened to Celestia, why she’s doing thing, or what could possibly stop her. We have no data. There’s nothing to base any assumptions on.”
“None of yer books said anythin’ about it?”
She shook her head glumly. Books had never failed her before, and the experience was depressing. Even the delicious apple fritter couldn’t cheer her up. She polished it off anyway.
“Unless Luna knows something she’s not telling us, we might have to wait and see what Celestia does,” she said. “Hopefully she won’t go near any more towns in the process.”
Applejack was silent for a while. Her own meal of fried-melon-balls-on-a-stick lay half-finished in her hooves. Twilight tried to look at it suggestively, without making it too obvious that she wanted a bite.
“Do y’think she is?” Applejack finally asked. “Luna, I mean. Hiding somethin’ from us.”
Luna’s morose expression from before filled Twilight’s mind. “I don’t think so,” she said. “She seems as shook-up about this as everypony else.”
They settled back into silence while Applejack finished her fried-melon-balls-on-a-stick, much to Twilight’s chagrin. She was about to suggest going back to the street vendor when a sickly emerald flame materialized in the air before her. The fire swirled in place for a moment before taking the shape of a rolled-up scroll, which dropped to the ground at her feet. The outside of the scroll bore two words in a tiny, neat handwriting that Twilight instantly recognized.
“For Luna,” it read.
***
Luna and the mayor, an older earth pony mare with a rust red coat and quill cutie mark, had just finished meeting with refugees at the train station when Twilight Sparkle found them. The lavender unicorn panted heavily as she galloped through the crowd to the princess. Beads of sweat dotted her coat, standing out starkly in the thin layer of dust that still covered her.
“Princess!” Luna looked up as her name was called. She mumbled an excuse to the mayor and turned toward Twilight.
The unicorn came to a stop, her sides heaving. An elegant scroll, wrapped in a gentle purple glow, bobbed in the air before her. “It’s… it’s… from Spike!” she finally managed to say.
Luna snagged the scroll from the air with her own magic. She noted the address on the outside, and pulled it open to read.
To Her Majesty Princess Luna,
Rainbow Dash has just returned to Ponyville. She claims to have spoken with the stars, who delivered this message:
A unicorn who calls herself “The Great and Powerful Trixie” has stolen Celestia’s necklace. The necklace is more than just jewelry; it is responsible for subduing Celestia’s power. If it can be returned Celestia will once again be safe.
As of this morning Trixie was west of Canterlot, near Appleloosa.
On behalf of Rainbow Dash,
-Spike
The parchment fell from her nerveless magic. It struck the cobblestones and furled back into a loose scroll, and rolled across the ground toward Twilight. The unicorn looked between it and Luna with a concerned gaze.
Trixie… Reading the name was almost a physical assault. A terrible hollow pit opened in her gut, and the murmur of the crowd around her was replaced by a toneless buzz in her ears. Trixie.
The thought of her friend’s crime was shocking, but the realization that followed was worse by far. The numbness faded as anger grew within her heart. She thought of Canterlot, and Appleloosa, and the anger was replaced by a towering rage.
Ponies cried out and scrambled away as she blasted into the air, her wings stirring a gale that tossed them off their hooves. A quick locating spell found Trixie not so far away, though her signature was surprisingly dim, as though she had found some way to magically hide herself.
It mattered not. The windows below her shattered as she effortlessly broke the speed of sound, en route to her target.
***
Las Pegasus was an easy town to get lost in. Trixie did so as soon as the train stopped.
Big Mike tried to get her to stay with the other refugees. They were being offered free food and shelter, courtesy of a royal proclamation from Luna. Trixie politely declined, and escaped into the bustling city as fast as her hooves would carry her.
Las Pegasus was a surprise to the unicorn. She had never travelled out west, and simply assumed that any towns out there were small outposts like Appleloosa, which had exactly fit her stereotypes of the Mild West. Las Pegasus, however, was a full-sized city, nearly as large as Manehattan or Fillydelphia, and unlike those ancient cities, Las Pegasus was gleaming and young. Every building, every street, every pony seemed filled with energy and optimism. It was as far from Canterlot in style as it was in distance.
She finagled a cheap room in a seedy hotel near the merchant’s district. A simple sob story about escaping from Appleloosa convinced the owners to give her the room for a pittance. For once her story was almost completely true.
The room itself was smaller than the one from Appleloosa, but more lavishly furnished. The bed held a real mattress, not just a sack stuffed with hay. Gas lights filled the interior with a warm glow, and the floors were polished wood, rather than sanded planks. It was a step in the right direction, she thought.
Of course, there was still the matter of the torc, stubbornly stuck to her chest. Not to mention the angry sun goddess chasing her relentlessly across half of Equestria. What she needed, she thought as she settled onto the soft bed, was a plan to deal with both. She drew a deep breath, closed her eyes, and envisioned the plan that would rescue her from this latest predicament.
Absolutely nothing came to mind.
She allowed herself a tiny frown. The expression wore easily on her face, like an old piece of favorite clothing grown soft and loose with time. Had anypony been in the room with her, they would have called it the most relaxed and natural look she had worn in days.
The problem was the torc, obviously. If she could get rid of it, her magic would (presumably) return, and she would be free to return to her life as an itinerant performer. Her future would still be in doubt, depending on whether or not anyone connected her with its theft, but that was something to worry about later. If nothing else she would be in a much better position to flee with her magic than without it. Getting rid of the torc might even solve the second problem, she realized. Celestia might simply be following it, rather than her specifically.
She tried a bit of magic again. As always it failed; the torc absorbed her efforts with mocking silence. It weighed on her neck like a stone.
Finally she came to the only conclusion left – another unicorn would have to help her. There were plenty in the city. They would just need a little convincing.
A bit of the weight on her shoulders lifted away. It wasn’t a great plan, to be sure, but it was a plan, and that was more than she had before. She started grooming her mane and coat as best she could without her magic.
***
Trixie was about to head out the door to find a gullible unicorn stallion when Luna arrived.
There was no grand entrance, no fanfare announcing her royal presence. One moment Trixie was reaching for the doorknob with her mouth, and in the next the temperature of the room dropped fifty degrees.
She paused at the sudden chill, her breath coating the metal knob with beads of condensation that quickly frosted into tiny dots of ice. The gas lamps flickered uncertainly, and for an instant the room was plunged into a hesitant darkness that only reluctantly receded from the glow of the lights. Her coat prickled at the unexpected intrusion of frigid air, which wafted toward her from the closed window across from the door. Tendrils of fog danced along the ceiling as the humid air plunged below its dew point.
Trixie froze in place, her muscles seizing in panic. She stared stupidly at the door for several long seconds, too terrified to turn and confirm what she already knew to be true. Her hasty, ill-conceived plans to find a unicorn and ditch the torc died without a whimper.
“Luna…” she started to say. Her parched mouth stuck on the syllables, and she swallowed several times before continuing. “I’m glad you found me, I was just about too…” she trailed off again as she turned, and beheld the nightmare behind her.
The princess was immense. She filled the room with darkness; her umbra blotted out the light as the moon eclipsed the sun. Her horn, a wicked and shining spire, grazed the high ceiling where she stood, her head and neck tilted imperiously. A bruise-black cloud that sparkled with a million stars flowed from her mane and tail, the only scrap of motion in the room. Only her eyes, bright and shining with barely contained fury, offered a hint that the princess was anything more than a statue.
All of Trixie’s arguments fled; her pleas, about to roll from her tongue, dried up as she drank in the sight before her. Nothing that cared for her excuses shared the small room.
“So it’s true,” Luna whispered. Her words, cold and distant as the moon, echoed in Trixie’s mind.
She unconsciously pulled her shawl tighter around her chest. The bulky metal shape of the torc showed through it like a poorly concealed pregnancy. Her mind raced as she sought an excuse – any excuse – and she forced her best smile onto her face.
“I’ve been looking for you ever since the Celebration,” she said. “I knew you would be able to—"
“Be silent,” Luna interrupted. “Even now, at the very end, you lie to me? Was it only ever lies?”
The alicorn’s horn flared, casting deeper shadows across the room. The shawl wrapped around Trixie’s chest lifted slightly, as though floating in a breeze, and disintegrated in a cloud of glittering dust. The traitorous torc, revealed, gleamed like a jewel in Luna’s presence.
“You foal,” she continued. “You dare to steal from a princess, and flaunt your theft openly? You dare wear that which was made for a god?”
“It was an accident,” Trixie blurted. Her words tumbled out of control. “I didn’t know. Please, Luna, I didn’t—"
“Shut up!” Luna thundered. The room quaked in sympathy as she spoke. “You have no idea the pain and devastation you have caused. Celestia banished me for a thousand years for less than what you have done.”
“I had to!” Trixie quailed. She backed as far from Luna as possible, until her rump pressed against the frosted door. “You said it was the most powerful lens you’d ever seen! I needed it too--”
“ENOUGH!” Luna roared. She moved; in the blink of an eye she was only inches away from Trixie, her horn lowered like a spear. “Remove it now, and I’ll ask Celestia to be merciful for the sake of our former friendship.”
The first tear of the evening ran down Trixie’s face. “I can’t.” Her voice shook with terror. “Please believe me Luna, I can’t! By the stars I wish I could but I can’t. Nothing I’ve done even budges it!”
Luna snarled. An ugly sneer marred her beautiful face. “Then perhaps you aren’t trying hard enough!” Her horn flashed again, and a dark light surrounded the torc.
Trixie’s world vanished in a flood of pain. A sensation like a thousand knives sliding beneath her skin forced anything resembling real thought out of her head. A ragged scream tore from her throat as the agony doubled and redoubled. A terrible tearing sensation split her down the middle.
When her eyes opened she was lying on the floor at Luna’s feet. A fan of blood, slowly crystallizing in the cold air, stained the varnished wood floor beneath her. She trembled as the memory of the pain only slowly receded, leaving an ache that throbbed around her chest. The vile torc still clung to her, the jewel in its center sparkling brighter than she remembered.
“P-please,” she whispered. A thin tendril of drool escaped her quivering lips. “It hurts…”
“Oh, it hurts?” Luna said with sudden softness. She loomed over the fallen unicorn. “At last the Great and Powerful Trixie hurts. To think, I was worried about the hundreds of thousands of ponies your carelessness and avarice have hurt or made homeless, but now I see how little that matters. All that matters to you is your own pain, your own suffering.”
The alicorn’s horn sparkled again, and a scintillating light danced across the torc, followed almost instantly by a blinding flash. When Trixie’s vision returned she was lying several feet further away, in the center of a ring of ash. The floor around her smoked.
Luna narrowed her eyes. “Your thoughtlessness has destroyed two cities so far,” she continued. “And who knows how many more if I don’t stop this madness? It’s either me or her, Trixie; she will pursue you to the ends of the earth. Now give me the torc.”
Despair gripped her. Her pain faded with the realization that she would not be leaving the room alive. “I didn’t mean for this to happen! By Celestia, I didn’t mean—"
“Don’t say that name!” Luna screamed. “My sister was the kindest, wisest pony to ever exist, and you turned her into a monster! History will forget you and remember her as a raving beast! How is that fair? How is that fair?!”
An invisible claw latched onto Trixie’s hindleg, raising her off the ground to dangle like a fish from a line. The world spun around her as the magic dragged her through the air, and then slammed her into the wall with the force of a runaway train. The thin wood-reinforced plaster shattered, and she crashed through the new hole into the next room. She tumbled across the floor like a foal’s rag doll, only stopping when a solid wood credenza blocked her path. For a disorienting moment she forgot where she was or why her body hurt so.
Luna’s frame appeared in the hole. The ragged edges of the broken wall melted as she approached, the pitiful matter dissolving in the face of her terrible will. She stepped into the room with Trixie, and the terrible cold followed her.
“I had a dream,” the princess whispered. She drew closer to the unicorn, who only now began to whimper and stir again. “I had a sister. I had a home. I thought I had a friend.” Her silver-shod hoof crunched the flinders of wood beside Trixie’s head as it descended. No mere sword ever promised so much danger as it.
“But you stole all those things from me,” she continued. Her head lowered until her snout brushed against the weeping unicorn’s mane. “You took what I offered and you spat on it. I trusted you. Celestia help me, I trusted you!”
She raised her head back up, gazing at the ceiling as though seeing through it to the moon high above. A single tear, bright as a diamond against her midnight coat, trickled down her jaw, through the air, to land before Trixie.
“I am responsible for all this,” she said to the ceiling. The anger was gone from her voice, replaced by a sad resignation. “I told you about the torc. I set you on this path, and because of my mistake thousands are suffering again.”
“P-please, Luna…”
“Last time I was too weak. I gave into my petty jealousy, and the whole world suffered for it. I will not make that mistake again.” She looked down at Trixie’s prostrate form, and raised her hoof. “I’m sorry, Trixie.”
Her hoof came down with impossible speed, the silver shoe blurring into a shining streak. It slammed into the amethyst jewel held in the center of the torc, and the room filled with the sun.
***
Trixie woke just moments later. Suffocating smoke filled the room, lit an evil red by the fires that consumed the walls. Her mane curled in the heat as the licking flames advanced toward her. She coughed and stumbled to her hooves.
A draft of cool air grabbed her attention. The outside wall of the room was simply gone; a dark hole faintly filled by the lights of the town outside took its place. She could hear the shouts of ponies in the street below. Ignoring the pain in her body, she stumbled to the edge of the hole. The room was only on the second floor, and it didn’t take her long at all to decide that jumping was a much better course of action than waiting for the burning room to roast her.
And yet… she turned. Barely visible in the smoke was the dark form of the fallen princess, far smaller now than before. The flames danced ominously close to her still shape. Had she seen what Twilight Sparkle had at the camp site – the alicorn wading effortlessly through molten rock – she might have thought twice . Instead it was an easy decision to make.
She stumbled back through the smoke, stepping as best she could around the advancing flames. Unable to use her magic, she grabbed Luna’s mane in her teeth, and slowly, agonizingly dragged the princess across the room to the ragged drop-off. She stepped over her friend, and with her last ounce of strength pushed her off, into the street below.
Trixie balanced precariously on the edge for a moment, too exhausted to leap herself. After a moment the flames caught up with her, and she discovered that she had a bit more strength after all.
The drop to the ground was mercifully short.
|
Cold in Gardez
|
1001
| 9 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
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A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
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complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
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teen
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2012-04-05T04:29:03+00:00
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2012-04-05T04:29:03+00:00
| 4,476 |
The First Light of Dawn
Chapter 9: Incipient
Twilight Sparkle was reasonably sure her day could not get any worse.
The blast of air from Luna's abrupt departure knocked her clean off her hooves and sent her skidding across the rough earth for nearly a dozen feet. A cloud of dust exploded from the site of the princess' violent leap into the sky, temporarily blinding ponies and adding to the eruption of chaos. Twilight groaned quietly and tried to stand as the world spun around her. A panicked babble filled the air as the crowd stumbled away from the choking dust. Foals cried for their parents. Stallions and mares called out for their families. Above it all, Twilight could make out a single, familiar voice shouting her name.
“Twilight!” Applejack's ghostly form, almost lost in the dust and the evening darkness, broke through the gloom. Her battered Stetson hat somehow remained in place atop her head. After a moment's search, she noticed Twilight and dashed to her side.
“Land's sake, girl, are you alright?” She bent down to give Twilight a shoulder to lean on. Despite standing nearly as close to Luna as Twilight had, she didn't appear shaken or unsettled. The only concern in her eyes was for Twilight.
“I'm fine, AJ.” It was a white lie. Her side ached from the tumble, and she gratefully accepted Applejack's shoulder as she rose to her hooves. The ground rose and fell beneath her for another moment, like waves beneath a ship, before settling as her senses finally cleared. She took a deep breath, ignored the twinge of pain in her ribs, and turned to face the crowd. A small knot of ponies had formed around the mayor, who was shouting to be heard above the chaos.
“Was anyone hurt?” she asked. Another worry occurred to her. “Are you okay?”
“I'm fine. Takes more than a bit of wind to hurt an Apple.” Applejack made a show of brushing the dust from her chest with a hoof. “The others just got knocked down. You were the only one standing right next to her.”
Right, her. Twilight took a few shaking steps back to where Luna had been standing. “Why would Luna do that? She read that scroll, then just... left? Took off? I didn't even see what happened to her.”
“She went that way.” Applejack pointed a hoof east, toward the rising moon. “Was in a hurry, too. Looked like a shooting star... Twilight, what are you doing?”
Twilight was several steps away by the time of Applejack's question. She stopped long enough to call over her shoulder. “Going after her, of course. Come on.”
Applejack caught up easily. She gave Twilight a sidelong glance as they trotted down the road, doing their best to step around groups of ponies crowding the street. “And how are we supposed to do that? We can't fly, and we don't even know where she went.”
Twilight came to an awkward stop in the middle of the street. The burn on her hoof still ached terribly, a low throbbing pain that swelled in time with her heartbeat. She held it gingerly off the ground as she considered Applejack's point.
“I guess we keep walking until we find something,” she finally said.
“Alright,” Applejack said. Her voice was a slow, easy drawl, as always. “Then what?”
Twilight frowned. She'd hoped Applejack wouldn't force the point, but she really had no idea what to do after finding the princess. They didn't even know why she had fled in such a rage. The realization brought her up short.
“The letter.” She spun to face Applejack, bouncing slightly as she favored her injured hoof. “What happened to it?”
Applejack's eyes widened. “Gosh Twilight, it could've gone anywhere. Heck, Luna blew you over when she left. That little scrap of paper didn't stand a chance.”
Of course it hadn't. Twilight ground her teeth silently, trying not to let her frustration show on her face. Every second that passed, Luna drew further away, and with her any hope of solving this mystery and helping Celestia.
Maybe we don't need to find it. The thought teased her. Maybe her magic could do something useful for once. She closed her eyes and attempted to visualize the scroll, just as it had been before she'd given it to Luna. Simple parchment, like Spike always used, cut neatly along its edges but ragged at the top and bottom, where he would have torn it free from the roll. And he had done something unusual – addressed it.
“Do you remember what Spike wrote on the outside of the scroll?” she asked. Her eyes were still closed, visualizing everything but that final piece.
“That was Spike's writing?” A pause as Applejack thought. “It just said, 'For Luna,' I think.”
Of course. She chastised herself for forgetting so easily. The past few days truly had taken their toll on her, physically and mentally. She rotated the scroll in her mind and imagined Spike's neat, cursive writing. For Luna. Very concise of him.
The image felt stable. She set her wounded hoof back on the ground, ignoring the twinge of pain it sent up her leg. A spell like this required four points of grounding to have any chance of working. When she felt balanced, centered and stable, she let her mind open to the flows of magic weaving their way through the world. Her horn caught the flows like a wire drawing current, and the familiar, blissful warmth of a successful spell filled her body. There was a flash, visible even behind her closed eyes, and she heard something soft fall to the road between them.
She smiled even before her eyes popped open. The scroll – battered, torn and wet – sat on the cobblestones. She lifted it into the air with a thought and carefully unrolled it. Her horn provided more than enough light to read by.
***
Trixie managed to land on a relatively soft piece of burning wreckage.
Under most circumstances, she would have tried to avoid jumping onto a heap of smoking timbers bristling with jagged stumps and splinters of wood as long as her leg. There were very few things that could motivate her to leap from a second-story hotel room. Burning to death in a second-story hotel room, however, was one of those things.
The fall was mercifully short. The blasted remains of the outer wall rushed up to meet her like a joyous foal running to embrace its mother. She didn't even lose consciousness after slamming into the ground.
She staggered out of the pile of debris in a daze. Streaks of blood marred her sky blue pelt, their red trails barely visible beneath the dark soot stains that covered her from head to hoof. Something was wrong with her right foreleg – it buckled when she tried putting weight on it, sending her stumbling to the ground again. The sickening stench of burnt hair followed her away from the fires.
Another part of the building collapsed behind her. She turned to see flames licking at the roof, slowly spreading from the room she had just abandoned. Faint cries of alarm sounded from within, and ponies began to appear on the street, calling for help. So far, none had noticed her.
That suited her just fine. After a brief search she found Luna's unmoving body resting in an indecorous pose against the wall. Her coat was nearly black with ash, and her mane tasted bitter in Trixie's mouth as she grabbed Luna and dragged her away from the fires. Every step was agony, and she nearly passed out after carelessly planting her wounded leg on the ground. Nevertheless, she didn't stop until they were far enough away that the heat of the fires was merely like standing next to an oven, rather than baking inside one.
She spat out Luna's mane and raised her head, then spent the next few moments debating the merits of passing out. Her vision vanished in a gray haze, and a faint, unpleasant buzzing noise filled her ears. The stinging cuts in her pelt and the ache in her leg receded, drifting away like smoke. She teetered, tripped, and fell to the ground beside her friend.
Friend. The word slid through her mind, taking its time passing from one side of her addled brain to the other. More thoughts followed: memories of their time in Canterlot, evenings in the gardens, long discussions about the past and future. They teased her. All gone. She sobbed once, and would have cried, had not the burning air already stolen her tears.
A shout from down the street roused her. Any moment now more ponies would arrive, and they would not let her escape. She choked back another sob and pushed herself onto her hooves.
Beside her, Luna still hadn't moved. She seemed smaller than before, barely larger than any other pony off the street. Her mane and tail hung limp, spread across the dirt. Merely hair. Nothing magical.
Trixie pressed her snout against Luna's side. She felt the beat of Luna's heart: slow, steady and powerful. Her chest rose and fell as she breathed. One of the many heavy weights on Trixie's heart lifted away.
More shouting down the street. Voices calling for help. Trixie stepped around the fires and ran into the darkness.
***
Trixie finally stopped several blocks away, in an alley between two rows of flats, silent and dark with slumber. Bins filled with rubbish, neatly sorted by type and size, lined the clean walls. She snorted loudly at the sight – only earth ponies would bother organizing trash.
Whatever their other merits, the dumpsters gave her a convenient place to hide. She crouched behind the largest one, a huge rectangular bin nearly overflowing with refuse. Leftover vegetables and table scraps, to judge by the smell. She ignored the stench and focused on her breathing, willing herself to calm. In and out. Slow heartbeat. Just like preparing to go on stage to amaze a skeptical crowd.
She strained her ears in the silence. Far away, shouting ponies called for help and directed the fire brigade toward the burning hotel. She imagined them finding Luna. In her mind, they loaded the princess onto a stretcher, and whisked her away to the finest hospital in the city. The best doctors attended to her, and when she woke she was good as new. The insanity of the hotel would be forgotten, and she would forgive Trixie's mistake. They would go back to Canterlot, and everything would be like it was before. She would return to the bustling, sweltering, miserable kitchens and be happy again.
Trixie found she was crying. She wrinkled her snout in disdain, an old familiar sneer settling on her face like a well-worn cloak. Tears were for weak ponies, ponies who were neither great nor powerful. Ponies who did not command the forces of the arcane. Ponies who were not her.
She tugged at the torc with her good hoof. The cursed artifact was as stubborn as always. It pulled her skin with it, and a line of pain shot through her chest straight to her heart. The ugly amethyst set in its center glimmered in the dark alleyway. She could have sworn it was laughing at her.
So, still no magic. She stomped her hoof back to the slick stones, sending a sharp report echoing through the dim alleyway. Some unseen animal scampered away from the sound, filling the darkness with the scratching of claws on rock and the rustle of trash being brushed aside. A moment later, it was gone, and silence returned.
It wasn't supposed to be like this. She curled into a ball, hugging her wounded leg to her chest. Oh Celestia, I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have taken it. The drip-drop of water trickling down gutters answered her.
Out of habit, she tested her magic again. For perhaps the thousandth time in two days she tried levitating a small object: a tiny stone this time, lying half-lit in the shadows before her. She reached out with her thoughts and gave it a shove.
It moved.
It did’nt move much, to be certain. It barely trembled. Had it been something lighter, like a feather or a piece of paper, she might have assumed it was the wind. But there was no wind in the alleyway, and besides, pebbles didn’t usually flutter in the breeze. She stared at it, her mouth hanging open. When she recovered her wits a moment later, she tried again, reaching out an invisible hoof to cradle the stone and lift it into the air.
It rose. Shakily, slowly, stubbornly, it rose. She stared at it, wide-eyed in wonder. The faint glow of her horn filled the alleyway with a gentle silver light, so fleeting and weak she would have missed it anywhere else. The tiny pebble, dirty and unremarkable except for it tremulous hovering, was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. The tears she had forced back earlier now flowed freely down her cheeks.
A giddy thrill began building in her chest. She smiled, then beamed at the pebble, her face and eyes alive with delight. Her aches and pains were forgotten in an instant as she began to giggle, followed quickly by wild, relieved laughter. She laughed until her breath failed and she slumped back to the alleyway floor, her chest shaking as she gasped. For the first time in days she knew an emotion other than despair or hopelessness.
The pebble clattered to the ground with a quiet clicking noise. She barely heard it above her heaving sobs, but it grabbed her attention nevertheless. She rolled onto her hooves and pushed herself up with a grunt, ignoring the twinge of pain in her leg. Her head was clearer. The fog of fear and confusion no longer shrouded her thoughts. The old Trixie – cunning and ruthless and wonderful – returned to the fore.
Her magic wasn't back at full strength, she judged. Even as a filly, she'd been stronger. All her strength had barely been enough to lift that tiny pebble. But that wasn't important – like a blind pony suddenly seeing the faintest glimmer of light, the pebble's value was not in what it provided her, but what it represented.
Hope. It fluttered in her chest, like a tiny bird struggling to take flight. All it needed was a chance.
She closed her eyes, letting her mind slowly empty of worries and concerns. Her senses opened to the flow of magic around her, and when she opened her eyes again the shimmering silver world of Sirensight greeted her.
The alleyway was a dark void. An absence, a space between the homes on either side and the kinetic power of the road. Alleys were, by definition, gaps between points of meaning. In Sirensight the alleyway was magnified, a looming chasm that spread around her, seemingly for miles in every direction. Empty, except for her.
Her, and the low stone well that followed the torc. It sat in empty space a dozen yards away. She knew better than to walk toward it – the alleyway's walls were much closer than the well, and she would run into them long before reaching it. Instead she focused her attention, imagining the well drawing closer. As the well was a purely imaginary construct, it obliged.
She took a careful step toward the well, now that it was close enough to touch. As before, a faint silver thread extended from her heart, waving through the air like a line of spidersilk in the breeze. The cord danced before her and descended into the depths of the well. She leaned forward and peered in.
The well was nearly full. Less than a yard beneath the stone rim sat a pool of silver water, placid and unmoving. The silver cord vanished into its depths like a fisherman's line. She blinked in shock, and the well vanished, replaced by the harsh reality of the dark alleyway.
The torc was not bottomless; its capacity to absorb magic was not limitless. She gave it a nervous tap with her hoof. A quiet ring filled the alleyway.
Trixie stood there for a while, lost in thought. Overhead, the silent moon drifted across the stars, keeping steady pace with the melancholy night.
***
The building housing the hotel was fully aflame when Twilight Sparkle and Applejack finally arrived.
They had no way of knowing it was a hotel, by that point. Hundreds of ponies crowded the streets outside, watching the three-story building slowly collapse. A billowing, roiling column of smoke rose from the fire, lit an ugly orange from below by the flames. Showers of sparks danced in the air over their heads, putting the stars to shame with their brilliance.
Most of the crowd's attention was on the fire. The night was filled with a barrage of shouting ponies, calling questions or orders to each other over the roar. Three fire engines had already arrived and were spraying water on the flames, and Twilight could hear the ringing bells of several more on their way.
Off to the side, away from the main crowd, a smaller group of ponies huddled in a circle around a wagon. Some instinct drew Twilight to them, with Applejack in tow. In the light of the fires, the earth pony's orange coat appeared white again, just like back at the digsite, Twilight noticed. Ahead, Twilight could see ponies crowded around a still form lying on the ground. A winged pony, with a flowing blue mane and a coat as dark as night.
“Luna!” Twilight pushed her way between a pair of stallions, ignoring their grunts and dark looks. The sight of the fallen princess stopped her cold.
Luna was a shadow of her former self. Barely larger than Twilight, with a mane and tail composed of normal hair. She looked just as she had when the Elements of Harmony had freed her from Nightmare Moon's influence. Her coat was streaked with soot, though Twilight couldn't see any actual burns. After the way Luna had walked through molten rock at Celestia's first crash site, Twilight wasn't even sure the princess could be burned.
She could be injured, that much was clear. Her eyes were closed and her limbs tangled beneath her body. She didn't respond as a tan earth pony mare with a bandage cutie mark tended to her.
The nurse – at least, Twilight assumed she was a nurse – looked up as Twilight broke through the circle. Her eyes widened as she took in Twilight's battered condition.
“You, unicorn. Were you with her when this happened?” the nurse asked. She stood and walked around Luna, her eyes darting up and down Twilight's body quickly. “Have you been treated yet?”
“Er, no and yes, in that order,” Twilight said. She turned to the burning hotel for a moment, then back to the princess. “What happened? She was with us not too long ago near the train station, then she took off. Is she alright?” She pressed forward. “Is she hurt?”
The nurse gave Twilight a concerned look, her eyes lingering again on the many scrapes and scuffs the unicorn had acquired over the past few days. Whatever she intended to say, however, was lost as Luna stirred.
The princess moaned quietly, and her wings fluttered against her side. Before Twilight could do so much as take a step forward, Luna's eyes shot open. They were filled with a baleful energy, an intense stare darker and deeper by far than the night overhead. The circle of ponies stumbled back; even Twilight could not help but cringe at the sight.
“Where is she?!” Luna screamed. Her voice, mellifluous and feminine and terrible, nearly deafened them. “Where did she go? Where did she go?!” She tried to stand, stumbled, and slowly pushed herself upright. A chilling cold emanated from her in waves, setting Twilight's hair on end. Beneath her, a rime of frost began to grow on the ground.
“L-Luna...” Twilight stammered. Everything else was forgotten as she stared at the princess. Her teeth began to chatter.
“Tell me!” Luna stood, and any illusions Twilight had about her size were dispelled. The alicorn seemed to grow before them, her wings spread wide, as though embracing the very night. Her light blue mane darkened and began to sparkle again. It shimmered, then flowed in an invisible breeze. Even her horn seemed to grow, becoming a spiraling needle jutting from her head like a spear. She snarled at their silence, and then stepped toward Twilight.
She never finished the step. As soon as her hoof left the ground she shrieked in pain and fell back onto her haunches. The imperious, commanding look fled her face, replaced by shock. She cradled her foreleg against her chest, and slowly looked down at the source of her pain.
Her hoof was simply gone. The leg ended in a twisted, seared pulp that oozed dark red blood onto her coat. Her mouth fell open, and she began to tremble. The wicked light vanished from her eyes, replaced by a look Twilight knew all too well – fear and hurt.
“Oh Celestia...” Twilight whispered. Despite all she had suffered, Luna's injury was far worse than anything she had ever seen. “Don't move. We'll help you. We'll, uh...” Twilight trailed of and glanced around at the crowd, completely at a loss.
The nurse, fortunately, was not. She pushed Twilight aside and stepped up to Luna without hesitation, already reaching back to open a canvas satchel draped across her back. She carefully pried Luna's leg away from her chest, making quiet shushing noises, and wrapped a large gauze pad around the stump. The white cotton immediately reddened in spots. The nurse frowned at the wound, then pulled out a rolled bandage and began tightly binding the wound.
Luna stared at her mangled hoof as the nurse worked. Her lips and nose turned a sickly, ashen blue, and for a moment she swayed on her remaining legs. She would have fallen, if Applejack and another earth pony hadn't bustled in and pressed against her side.
“Lower your head,” the nurse said. “Better yet, lie down. You're going to pass out.”
“No,” Luna mumbled. Her face glistened with sweat, and she gulped in air like she had just finished running a marathon. “No, I don't have time for this...” Despite the conviction in her words, her head sank, and a thin strand of drool dripped to the ground. Her ears hung limp against her head, like flags on a windless day.
The nurse sighed. “Have it your way. Try to let her down slowly, would you?” She said the last to Applejack.
Twilight found herself edging closer. She stared at Luna's leg as the nurse worked. The bandage was at neat and precise as one of Rarity's dresses – the nurse spun and wrapped the cloth with her hooves and mouth better than Twilight could have dreamed of doing with her magic. Eventually, the limb was entirely swaddled in cotton from her ankle down. Not even the tiniest drops of blood were able to leak through.
“Will... will she be okay?” Twilight said. She tried to pitch her voice down, so only the nurse would hear.
Luna had better hearing than she realized. Her ears flicked as Twilight spoke, and she managed to raise her head.
A flicker of annoyance passed across the nurse's face. She gave the bandage another once-over, then began running her hooves over the rest of Luna's body, pausing occasionally to check her soles. Looking for more blood, Twilight realized.
“She'll be fine,” the nurse said, louder than she needed.
“But her hoof--”
“She'll be fine.” The nurse shot Twilight an angry stare. “And if you don't mind, you aren't helping.”
Twilight shrunk, stung. The weight of the past two days, of watching, helpless and useless as event spun out of control, rushed back in an instant. Her throat tightened, and hot, stinging tears crowded out her vision.
No. Stop it. Luna needs us right now. Stop being a baby and help her. She sniffed, blinked hard, and raised her head again.
“I'm sorry.” Her voice barely trembled. “What should we do?”
The nurse gave her another, softer glance. “You know her? You're her friend?” When Twilight nodded, she continued. “Then talk to her.”
Right, talk. Twilight was good at talking. She took a deep breath and leaned down, putting her face next to Luna's.
“Luna,” she whispered. “It's me, Twilight. We're going to help you.”
The alicorn drew another shuddering breath. “Trixie.” She stumbled on the word. It was more of a hiss than true speech.
“We know. We read the scroll.” Twilight motioned with her hoof for Applejack to lean closer. “What should we do?”
“Find her.” Luna shook her head slowly, as though trying to clear it. “Find her.”
Right. They knew Trixie better than anyone else in the city. With her magic and Applejack's common sense, they could find her in a heartbeat. A feeling of hopeful confidence crept back into Twilight's chest. “We can do that. Then what?”
“Kill her.”
The warm, hopeful feeling evaporated like a snowflake in a bonfire. She stumbled back, staring at Luna with undisguised shock. Applejack jerked in surprise, nearly falling as her hoof caught on Luna's wing. Even the nurse looked up from her work.
For a brief moment, Twilight hoped she might have simply misheard Luna. The alternative was too horrible to consider. The silence stretched out as she struggled for a response.
“But...” It was the only word that occurred to her. She glanced at Applejack, then back to Luna. She's hurt. She's not thinking straight. It was the only possibility.
“You have to.” Luna pushed herself fully upright, her wings fluttering as she settled them back around her body. The dazed, wounded alicorn closed her eyes, and when she opened them again, the princess was back, as cold and imperious as the moon. She stared at Twilight; she stared through Twilight.
“But--” Twilight tried again.
“She is responsible for all of this pain and destruction, Twilight.” Luna rode over her without a hint of hesitation. “I tried to take the torc from her peacefully, and this is what happened.” She lifted her hoof. If the wound still pained her, there was no sign of it on her face.
“But--”
“Stop saying that!” Luna roared. The circle of ponies widened as they retreated, and Twilight found herself standing suddenly alone. “Do you think it pleases us to do this? To kill one of our own subjects? If there were any other way, Twilight, we would take it, but there is not. If you wish to save this city from the same fate as Canterlot, you will help us.”
Twilight sat, dumbfounded. The silence as Luna finished was profound. Distantly, she heard the battle against the burning hotel rate – ponies shouting, bells ringing, fires roaring. It might as well have been a thousand miles away.
Luna stared at her another moment, then nodded. “Good. we know it's unpleasant and feels wrong, Twilight, but sometimes we must do hard things to save the ones we love.” A pained look flashed across her face as she said the last word, but it was gone in an instant. A ghost of an emotion. “Now, she can't have made it very far on hoof--”
“No.”
Luna stopped. The expressionless mask reappeared on her face. “What did you say?”
Twilight stood. “I said no. We're not going to help you kill anypony. We've come this far – there must be some other way to--”
“There is no other way!” Luna hobbled toward Twilight on three legs. Any comic effect from her gait was lost as she loomed over Twilight's tiny form. “Every pony in this town will die if we do not get that torc! You will help us!”
Twilight gulped. Her leg lifted, and she began to take a step back. It took all her will to force it down again and stand her ground. “I said no, Luna. I won't.”
The night itself seemed to darken around them. The light of the fires faded away, sinking into the shadows like water into sand. Luna somehow grew, her mane flowing like a cloud that blotted out everything but the moon and stars overhead. The terrible, killing cold was back. Twilight's breath puffed in front of her, before even that pitiful scrap of light vanished as well. Nothing remained but Luna.
She stared at Twilight. There was nothing warm, or caring, or even mortal in her gaze. Only a judging god, viewing an unworthy subject.
“Very well.” Her voice was ice. Colder than ice – as cold as the lightless reaches beyond the moon and between the stars. Merely hearing her words drew the warmth from Twilight's body, leaving her shivering in the desert night. “I pray you will live to understand the enormity of your error.”
With that, the princess of the night stretched her wings to their fullest extent and lifted into the air. A shadow fell over the assembled crowd, somehow casting the night into further darkness. Within a moment it passed, and then Luna was gone. Overhead, a black shape flitted across the stars, spiraling ever outward from the roiling smoke.
Twilight realized she was shivering. Applejack, the nurse, and all the other ponies were staring at her in disbelief. She swallowed and tried to speak.
“I c-couldn't do it.” She looked around for support. “I would have done anything else. How... how could she ask--”
“Shh, it's alright, sugar.” Applejack stepped up beside her. “You did the right thing. She'll understand, when she calms down.”
“You think she'll...”
“I know she will,” Applejack said. “She's just in a rough spot. Like some other ponies I could mention.”
Very subtle. Twilight frowned and shook her head. “Well, we can't afford to wait for that. We need to find Trixie before she does.”
“Have any ideas?”
Twilight sat in thought for a minute. The circle of ponies slowly broke apart, their attention drawn to the blazing fire behind them. Only the nurse remained, giving Twilight another once-over. She changed the bandage on Twilight's hoof, tsk-ing at the wound, and made Applejack promise to keep it clean. That would have annoyed her, had Twilight been paying any attention.
Finally, she looked up. “Yes. Yes I do.”
***
The night welcomed Luna back into its fold. The chill desert air embraced her, held her aloft effortlessly. Las Pegasus shrank beneath her to a mosaic of lights, a grid of stars that eerily matched her own artistry above. Directly below her, the fire she started in the hotel was lost in the greater blaze of the city, vanished except for a faint smudge where the smoke blotted out the ground.
She noticed none of this. Twilight's rejection – no, her betrayal – oozed through her like the bitterest poison. Twice in this night a pony she trusted had turn against her, though to be fair Trixie's betrayal was days old. Still, both wounds were fresh, and ached far worse than the dull throb in her hoof.
She gave her wounded leg a quick glance. Images flashed before her: Trixie lying on the hotel floor, weeping. The torc, glittering in the darkness. Her hoof, shod in meteoric silver, descending to crush the traitorous unicorn. She closed her eyes and listened to the wind whistle around her.
Trixie was somewhere below. Las Pegasus was large, but not so large that she could hide forever. She was frightened and on the run, and frightened ponies made mistakes.
Luna tilted her wingtips, banking into a widening circle around the burning hotel. She would find Trixie, and this time there would be no underestimating her. No hesitation. No mercy for an imagined friend.
She thought back to the topiary gardens outside the castle. How far away it all seemed now. Just two days ago. A lifetime ago.
If you can't remove the torc from the pony, remove the pony from the torc. If all else failed, she could simply toss Trixie at Celestia's hooves. Nothing would remain but the torc. And memories.
Celestia could have the former. Luna would keep the latter.
***
Less than an hour later, Trixie found herself just blocks away from where she had entered the city – the Las Pegasus freight shipping yard.
Dozens of railways converged on this one point, covering a vast stretch of open land larger than the entire town of Appleloosa. Lines of boxcars sat, unused, in the crisp night air, waiting for the return of the day and the ponies who would drive them out into the world. Some were destined for mining and industrial sites out in the mountains. Others were simple passenger liners, soon to carry ponies to towns across Equestria. A select number would never leave the city at all – they existed only to ferry cargo from inbound trains to smaller stations throughout the city. Together, the network they formed was a marvel of earth pony engineering, more elaborate and sophisticated than any other transportation system in the world.
Trixie just needed to borrow one, small piece of it.
She had not the slightest idea how trains worked. Some, she knew, powered themselves, with steam boilers that might as well have been magic to her mind. More primitive ones were pulled by teams of conductor ponies. She trusted that type more.
Under the circumstances, she wasn't likely to get either version working, particularly without being noticed. For all that the trainyard was unguarded at night (after all, who would think to steal a train?), there were limits to what she could pull off. That was fine, though. She just needed a single car.
The central station was nearly as large as Canterlot keep. It was a simple design, as though someone had taken a barnyard and built it a hundred times too large, with metal girders and glass panes instead of wood beams painted red. A pair of massive doors, one on each end of the structure, led to its cavernous interior. Thousands of ponies could have crowded inside, with room for a hundred pegusi in the air above them.
Trixie paused at the entrance. The far end of the station was hundreds of yards away, across from platforms and kiosks and elevated walkways and signs, dozens of signs, all exclaiming which line led to which train to which destination. To her left and right a dozen rails shot clean through the station. Even for a pony used to incredible things, it was an overwhelming sight.
Far beyond, in the yard outside the station, she spotted her target. A single, lonely, unused passenger car, sitting on the line leading south. She sucked in her breath and trotted into the station.
She was only a few yards in when she stumbled to a halt. Up ahead, she heard noises. Hooves on concrete. Voices. She ducked into the shadows beside a hulking steam engine and waited, her ears straining forward to hear.
“...bigger than I thought it would be.” The voice was feminine, but somehow still rough around the edges, with a slight drawl that reminded Trixie of the farming villages she used to frequent.
The voices drifted away for a moment, lost in the cavernous void. The tick and tock of an enormous clock, located on the central platform, filled the darkness with a mechanical heartbeat. Echoes of the clicking gears bounced back from the distant walls and ceiling, producing a lingering rattle that counted away the spaces between the seconds. She strained to hear the intruders over the sound of the passing time.
Eventually, the voices returned. A new pony spoke, more quietly and refined than the first. “...be here. Do you think we're too late?”
Trixie recognized the voice instantly. How could she not, when those same soft tones had haunted her dreams, all those months on the road? Her mind supplied an image of the pony: a mare, short for her age, with dark purple and pink hair cut straight as a ruler across her forehead. A lavender coat, and a starburst mark on her flank. The picture was as clear and sharp as if she were back in Ponyville, nearly a year before.
Twilight Sparkle. The damn unicorn had followed her from Canterlot. Trixie realized she was grinding her teeth, and forced herself to relax. Getting angry wouldn't solve anything.
They didn't know she was here, though they were obviously hunting for her. She could hide until they moved on, or try to sneak past them. Neither option was palatable – the sun was only a few hours away, and then everything would be too late.
The voices were drawing closer. She took a careless step back, and nearly shrieked when her flank bumped into the wood partition holding up a newspaper kiosk. An instant later, a hundred magazines, newspapers, coffee mugs, booklets, pens, maps and assorted other touristy knick-knacks clattered to the floor in a cheap, tacky avalanche that sent loose papers spilling across the platform.
Trixie stared at the mess in horror. Before she could even think of moving, a bright purple flare burst in the air above her, filling the station with light.
***
Twilight Sparkle was starting to feel desperate.
The train station had seemed like the obvious place to search. Even Applejack had agreed! There was simply no other expeditious way for a unicorn to escape the city before the sun rose and Celestia came looking for the torc.
“It's bigger than I thought it would be,” Applejack said. “These western ponies know how to build a train station, that's for sure.”
Twilight mumbled something non-committal, her mind on other things. She tried to imagine other possible hiding places or escape routes for a desperate unicorn. Did Las Pegasus have hot air balloons? A sewer system?
Finally, she gave voice to her fears. “I was sure she would be here. Do you think we're too late?”
Now that they were here, searching the massive emptiness of the freight station at night, her brilliant insight was looking a lot less brilliant. Aside from their simply being late, it was always possible Trixie had decided to escape on foot. A million possible reasons she was wrong tormented her mind. She was about to confess her desperation to Applejack when a sudden, tremendous clatter broke the silence.
Twilight turned without thinking, her horn flaring as she cast the first spell that came to mind. A bright purple spark leapt from its tip, shot through the darkness like an arrow, and exploded in a brilliant purple firework that lit the cavern like day.
Trixie reeled in the sudden brilliance, a hoof held over her eyes to block out the flare. Her powder blue coat appeared a dark grey in the purple light. She looked, Twilight thought, rather worse for wear. Scraped, bruised, bedraggled, with a mane that looked like it hadn't seen a comb in days. Her eyes, even in the shadow of her hoof, were haunted, weighed down with whatever terrors she had carried with her from Canterlot. She looked terrible.
She looks like me. The thought jolted her. Twilight glanced down at her own scuffed, dirty coat. Her mane felt like a bird's nest glued to her head. The fresh white bandage around her hoof was already beginning to curl around the edges.
“You.”
The sudden voice jerked Twilight out of her introspection. Across the platform, Trixie started as well. They both turned to Applejack.
“You,” the earth pony said again. She practically growled the word. Never had Twilight seen her friend so angry.
Applejack took a step forward. The crack of her hoof against the stone floor echoed through the station like thunder. She lowered her head, as though about to charge, and snarled at Trixie.
“I knew you were up to no good!” she shouted. “I shoulda known this was all your fault!”
Trixie cringed. She glanced around, as though looking for an escape route, then turned back to them. The look on her face was wild. Desperate.
“Stay back!” she yelled at them. “You can't stop me!”
Twilight took a step forward. She put a hoof on Applejack's shoulder before the earth pony could do anything rash. “I don't care about you, Trixie. We just want the torc.” She could see it clutched around Trixie's neck. It was exactly the same as it had appeared on Celestia, but somehow smaller, as though Trixie had found a jeweler and gotten it resized. She frowned and filed that mystery away for later.
Trixie's face twisted in a mix of emotions, so tangled Twilight couldn't begin to unscramble them. Rage, desperation, something like hate. Her eyes were wild as she shouted back.
“Don't you think I want to get rid of it?” She pried the tip of her hoof beneath the metal rim and strained, stopping a moment later as a raw shriek burst from her throat. Her head dangled, and a trickle of blood ran down her coat and pattered onto the cement floor. She caught her breath and looked up again, her face wracked with pain. “I can't. Nothing will get it off!”
Twilight gawked, taken aback by the ferocity in her voice and the sudden, shocking appearance of blood. Even Applejack seemed to have forgotten her anger.
“Oh, Celestia,” Twilight mumbled. Louder: “Maybe Luna can--”
It was the wrong thing to suggest. Even as she spoke Luna's name, Twilight realized her mistake. Luna's command, somehow forgotten in the shock of finally discovering Trixie, came floating back. Find her. Kill her.
Trixie must have realized what Luna had in mind. She took a step back and nearly tripped over the spilled newspapers. She recovered her footing, and shot them both a glare.
“No,” she said, still backing away. “No, Twilight Sparkle. You are not going to stop me. Luna is not going to stop me. No one will stop Trixie!”
There's no time for this. Twilight reached out with her magic, extending a magical grip toward Trixie to lift her into the air, just like she had with the Ursa Minor, so many months ago.
At least, that was the intent. As soon as the faint purple glow of her magic reached Trixie, it exploded in a shower of sparks. A sudden backlash jolted her horn, leaving her briefly dazed. It was like someone had set off a firecracker in her brain. The sparks faded away almost instantly, but the amethyst in Trixie's torc seemed to glimmer, as though it had someone stolen their light.
“Twilight!” Applejack looked back and forth between the two unicorns. “What the hay?!”
Twilight reached a shaking hoof up to her horn. Visions of Luna's foot, blasted away and seared almost to the bone, flashed before her eyes. She nearly passed out from relief when her hoof found it safe and whole.
“I'm fine,” she said. Her voice trembled, but grew stronger as she spoke. “I can't touch her, though. You'll have to.”
“Can do.” She turned to Trixie, who was staring at them with another odd expression. Anguish, mixed with her typical haughtiness.
“If you think a dirt pony is going to stop Trixie, you are sadly mistaken,” she said. Her horn flared with a weak silver glow, and the shadows around her seemed to expand. The darkness rose up over her like a shroud, cloaking her with its essence. The silver light faded and vanished in the pitch black space before them.
“Dirt pony!?” Applejack drew herself up and glared at the empty space where Trixie had stood. “You take that back!” She galloped toward the ebbing shadows and jumped onto the spot Trixie had been standing.
Trixie had, of course, moved by that point. Whatever else she was – braggart, coward, or fool – she wasn't enough of an idiot to try and stand down an enraged earth pony. Applejack landed harmlessly, tackling only air, and skidded across the smooth concrete into the pile of newspapers Trixie had knocked over. She was back on her feet in an instant, spinning around to search for any sign of her foe.
Off to the side, near another engine, Twilight saw one of the shadows drift across the moonlit platform. Without thinking, she fired another flare toward it. A brilliant purple firework exploded among the shadows, lighting them like day and exposing Trixie's crouching form.
“Applejack, there!” Her outburst was unnecessary. Applejack was already halfway toward Trixie by the time Twilight spoke. The showmare looked around in a panic, then abruptly vanished in a flash.
Almost instantly, there was an identical flash behind Twilight. She spun around to see Trixie no more than a foot away, so close she could make out each individual cut and scrape marring the blue unicorn's pelt. A large patch of her mane was missing – only a blackened scorch remained along her scalp where flowing, beautiful silver hair had once curled. Twilight opened her mouth to speak, when Trixie did something so intimate, so personal, Twilight was shocked into silence.
The showmare leaned forward and lightly touched her horn to Twilight's own. There was a tiny spark of magic, as of two dissimilar fields equalizing, then Trixie turned and pelted away. Twilight was too shocked to even consider following.
She touched my horn... She touched my horn! Only her parents had ever offered her such a familiar expression of love. She resisted the urge to reach up and try and wipe it clean.
“Gotcha!” Applejack's shout came from almost directly behind her. She turned just in time to absorb the earth pony's full weight as it crashed into her, slamming her to the ground in a bone-crushing tackle. Her breath exploded from her lungs. Stars danced around her head, the brightest points in the dark station. She felt herself lifted up, then dropped back onto the concrete.
“You liar!” Somepony shouted. It sounded like it was coming from a great distance, or as if somepony had stuffed her ears with cotton. She tried to stand in a daze, and felt a tremendous blow to her ribs. She toppled back down and stayed there.
Legs wrapped around her neck and wrenched her head back. She battered at them with her hooves, but they were like steel bars. Her vision, only so recently returned, began to go gray again.
“Applejack,” she tried to wheeze. Barely a gurgle emerged.
“Shut up!” Applejack's voice shouted in her ear. The anger in it was unbearable to hear. “I should give you to Luna! After everything you've done, it's the least you deserve!”
A calm, rational part of Twilight's mind wondered what had gotten into her friend. The greater portion of her mind was filled with gibbering panic as her air supply was slowly choked off. She beat weakly at Applejack's legs, with no effect. She tried some magic – any magic – but her thoughts were too disordered by the pain and shock of the attack. Eventually, it was all she could do to hook her wounded hoof around Applejack's, and try to pry it away. No dice.
“I've got her, Twilight!” Applejack shouted. The weight above Twilight shifted as Applejack peered around. “Twilight! Where'd you go, girl?”
Twilight twitched.
“Stop that,” Applejack snarled. She seemed about to say something else when suddenly she faltered. One of the unforgiving legs unclamped itself from Twilight's neck, and gently touched the fresh bandage around her wounded hoof. “What the hay...”
Twilight tried to speak again. A faint rasp was all that emerged. “Applejack...”
There was a loud gasp, and the other leg around Twilight's neck jerked away. Her head fell back to the concrete floor, bounced, then stayed still. The stars were back, she idly noted. Everything else seemed far away and not so important.
Numb. That was the word she was looking for. Everything was numb. Even her aches and pains were gone. Vanished. Distant relatives who no longer wrote.
“Twilight? Twilight!” Applejack sounded panicked, distraught. Very unlike her. Something must have gotten her upset.
Twilight wondered what could have happened. Faintly she was also aware of a ringing ache in her head, and her throat felt like somepony had shoved a log down it. Again, all very far away.
A pair of hooves cradled her head, lifting it away from the floor. Even that slight motion was too much for her to bear. The station spun around, and an acidic tang filled her mouth. The last thing she remembered was a burning pain in her throat, very real and not at all numb, as she vomited her most recent meal onto the concrete.
Then, mercifully, everything went dark.
|
Cold in Gardez
|
1001
| 10 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The First Light of Dawn
|
A terrible accident threatens to unmake the world as we know it.
|
complete
| 384 | 6 |
<p>It is the longest day of the year, and something has gone wrong. Canterlot is in ruins, Celestia is an out-of-control god flying west, and it's up to Twilight Sparkle and her friends to save Equestria. But with the Great and Powerful Trixie playing a reckless wild card, do the girls have what it takes to set things right?</p>
|
teen
|
2012-04-23T05:02:23+00:00
|
2012-04-23T05:02:23+00:00
| 6,953 |
Trixie fled through the shadows of the station as though her life depended on it.
It may have, for all she knew. Luna looked ready to kill her at their last meeting, and that was before Trixie blew up the room and shoved her off a second story balcony. There was only one way Trixie's next meeting with her would end.
So, that meeting had to be avoided, or at least postponed as long as possible. Indefinitely, even.
She was panting when she finally reached the far end of the station and emerged into the light of the diminishing moon. Behind her, she could hear angry shouting, and the end of what sounded like a vicious beating. The idea of hurting another pony, even one as hated as Twilight Sparkle, made her cringe, but she shoved that thought out of her mind. Sparkle was going to turn her over to Luna; she deserved whatever was happening back there.
The moon was just a few hoofspans above the mountainous horizon. Less than two hours remained in the night, she judged. Two more hours for Luna to find her. Two hours until Celestia woke and hunted her down.
For a brief moment, a crushing hopelessness descended upon her. She was hungry, hurt and exhausted, with a pair of gods tag-teaming each other in pursuit. If she stopped moving, they would find her. If she slept, they would find her. Even if she ran as fast as her legs would carry her, they would eventually find her.
This city would be her grave.
She stumbled at the realization, then swore and picked herself back up. The world had always tried to beat her. Every dream, the world had tried to smother. Every hope, it had tried to snuff out. But always it had failed – for every setback she had suffered, there was a comeback. For ever defeat, a rally. In every hopeless situation, rescue.
She came to a stop before a lone passenger car, detached from the rest of its train. Her breath came in ragged heaves, and she could taste something hot and metallic in her lungs with each gasp. But there was no time to rest. Ignoring the web of pains stitched across her body, she climbed into the car.
It was time to see how much her magic had improved.
***
When Twilight Sparkle woke up, the world was shaking.
That was unusual, to say the least. Earthquakes? She rejected the idea – most of Equestria was tectonically stable.
The shaking continued. She ran down the list of other possible causes and came up empty. Not enough data to formulate a hypothesis. She opened her eyes, to see if there were any visual clues.
Applejack's blurry form was just a few inches away. Maybe she knew why it was shaking? Twilight opened her mouth to ask, then promptly retched. A headache that had been hovering at the edges of her consciousness dove in with a vengeance, wrapping its claws around her brain. The sudden assault left her mewling.
At the same time, the analytic part of her brain continued its work. An imaginary sheet of paper appeared before her (much easier to see, now that her eyes were scrunched closed again). 'Headache' appeared at the top, with a tiny check mark next to it. Ditto for 'blurred vision'. Disoriented? Definitely got a check mark.
She tried to remember how she had ended up on the floor. Nothing. 'Faulty memory' appeared on the paper.
Twilight examined the evidence, and quickly reached a conclusion: she was suffering from a severe concussion. A brief flash of joy momentarily chased away the headache. Huzzah for empirical reasoning!
How do you treat concussion, again? She tried to order her scrambled thoughts. The shaking was back, which wasn't helping things. Why hadn't she paid more attention during those first aid classes? What was the mnemonic, again? Rest, ice, compression, and elevation. What? No, that's for sprains, not concussions. Well fine, you come up with a treatment, then! Don't take that tone of voice with--
“Twilight!” Applejack's shouting finally broke through the fog. “Come on, sug, wake up!”
“Buh... wha?” she said.
“Twilight! Oh thank goodness.” The relief in Applejack's voice was palpable. Just hearing it made Twilight feel better. After all, anything good for Applejack was good for Twilight, she reasoned. “C'mon Twi, open your eyes.”
She cracked her eyes open, then blinked. Applejack's face was just inches away. Her breath, hot and apple-scented (of course), washed over Twilight's snout. They stared at each other for a moment. Finally, Twilight broke the silence.
“You can put me down, now,” she said. Applejack's legs were still wrapped around her neck and head, cradling her off the floor.
“Oh, right. Sorry.” Applejack carefully set her down. “Are you alright? How do you feel?”
Terrible. “Fine,” she said. “Just a bit dizzy... what happened back there?” She slowly rolled onto her side, then every so carefully pushed herself into a seated position. A wave of dizziness briefly swept over her, but she caught her balance before she fell back to the floor. The nausea she had felt slowly receded, like the outgoing tide drawing away from a beach. For some reason, she thought about seaweed.
“Well, uh.” Applejack reached up with one hoof to scratch the back of her neck. “Right as I was about to tackle her, Trixie vanished in a flash. When I got up she was standing here, and you were running away.”
Twilight remembered the touch of Trixie's horn, and the spark of magic that had jumped between them. An illusion spell, apparently. Trixie was a better magician than Twilight had given her credit for. She mused over the thought in silence.
“And then what?” she finally asked.
“Well, I tackled her,” Applejack said. Her head fell, and her ears wilted, drooping limply against her mane. “But it wasn't her, was it? It was you. I was hurtin' you.”
“Don't fret over it. It wasn't your fault.” She carefully lifted a hoof off the ground and set it on Applejack's shoulder. “It was Trixie's fault, and we still need to stop her. Did you see which way she ran?”
Applejack nuzzled the offered hoof, then nodded and rose to her feet. “Sure did. She took off for the trainyard, outside that far door. Do you... do you think you can move?”
Twilight shoved herself onto her hooves. The world swam for a moment, but settled after a few deep breaths. “No choice. We need to stop her. Lead the way.”
Applejack gave her friend a worried look, but nevertheless turned toward the station's far entrance, and the moonlit night beyond. Together, they moved in pursuit.
***
Thousands of feet below, the black of night was beginning to fade away, revealing the soft beige sands of the desert landscape. The countless points of light that were Las Pegasus slowly vanished as dawn began to tint the sky.
To Luna's eyes, the encroaching light made little difference. She could see in absolute darkness. She could see better in absolute darkness. The nascent dawn, with its fingers of pale pink and purple rising up from the horizon, was only a reminder of how little time she had remaining.
Above her, the stars began their daily retreat from the sky. From east to west they slowly faded, just as the lights beneath her vanished. She could hear them; the billion tiny gems sparkled and laughed and danced and sang as their princess gyred in circles above ten thousand sleeping souls. She cried out to the stars for aid, but no response came. Wrong place, wrong time. But then, even if they had heard, they wouldn't have helped. She owed them too much already.
She could no longer sense even the dim presence that was Trixie. Whatever magic had been hiding her before was back, and vastly more effective. She had as much chance of finding the unicorn thief now as she would picking out an individual grain of sand on the beach.
She keened quietly, her frustration overwhelming her already frayed self control. Even at the best of times, Luna was a temperamental princess, not accustomed to keeping her emotions in check. It was the nature of the night to unleash the hidden, the primal, the sensual and the suppressed, and she was nothing if not the embodiment of the night.
And now the night was fleeing, chased away by the inexorable dawn. She felt herself flagging, her wingbeats growing sluggish and tired. The air felt thicker, almost like syrup, and she began to descend. Her moon, full and fat, touched the mountains to the west. She could barely hear its song above the cruel hail of sunlight.
She managed to slow her fall somewhat. Her outspread wings caught the air, and she hit the ground with far less force than Celestia had in the desert. Nevertheless, she punched a wide crater in the dirt of an empty lot on the outskirts of the town, and woke sleeping ponies for blocks around with her crash.
Unable to fly, she walked. Eventually, unable to walk, she crawled.
The sky brightened in the east. The dawn was like a hammer against her mind. With her sister by her side, she could have stayed up all day, drawing on Celestia's power and using it to sustain herself. Now, alone, she had nothing. Without her sister, she was nothing.
Unable to crawl, she dragged herself forward with her front legs. The side of her face scraped against the ground. Her wounded leg, noticeably shorter than the other beneath its bandage, ached abominably. It was the only sensation left.
Ponies were crowding around, babbling, shouting. Urging her to stop. Of course, they didn't know what was coming. They didn't know why she had to find Trixie.
The edge of the sun peaked above the mountains to the east. Its light washed away the rest of her strength, and left only an empty husk, a god weaker than the frailest of ponies.
Unable to drag herself, she wept, until the all-consuming light banished her conscience for the day.
***
Trixie found the wheel brake with only a bit of trial-and-error. Really, it should have been obvious. A giant lever next to the front set of wheels – it even had a small label reading “Push Forward To Release Brake.”
She decided to use test her magic on the brake, rather than using her mouth. It was time to find out how much her magic had recovered... and besides, earth ponies used that thing. With their mouths. She could see the tiny tooth-marks on the handle.
Simultaneously suppressing a shudder and thanking the stars for restoring her magic, she closed her eyes and concentrated, attempting to marshal her power. Back in the alley she had barely been able to lift a pebble, but that was hours ago. Her magic had come easily during the short duel with Twilight, and with any luck it was back to full strength.
Her horn was glowing a beautiful, brilliant silver when she opened her eyes. Delighted, she reached out with the power, grabbed the brake handle, and pushed it forward. It swung easily into position, and she could hear the clanking metal mechanism beneath the train as the system disengaged from the wheels.
And then the handle snapped off with a loud squeal of metal. The shaft, an inch-thick steel rod, broke like a dry branch. The jagged end glowed faintly red before quickly cooling back to a dull silver, lost beneath the glow of her magic.
Trixie stared, wide-eyed, at the handle. She hadn't meant to break it – even on the best of days, she couldn't have broken it, or at least not so easily and quickly. As she realized what she had done, her magic faltered, and the handle dropped to the floor of the car with a loud clatter. Beneath her hooves, the entire car swayed slightly in the breeze, no longer moored by the brakes.
Time was short, but this demanded investigation. She closed her eyes again and took several deep, calming breaths, willing her excited heart to calm its pace. When she felt centered and grounded again, she opened her eyes to the silver world of Sirensight.
The well was just a few inches away. Turbulent water bubbled out of it, flowing down its rough stone sides and onto the floor. Her hooves were submerged nearly to her fetlocks. She could feel the cool, calming water beneath her hooves. The image – and its implications – sent a shock through her, knocking her out of the dream vision with a flinch. The dark of night that replaced it left her blind and blinking furiously.
The torc itself was the first thing she saw, as her eyes slowly adapted. The amethyst crystal within glowed as bright as the moon, casting pale dim shadows on the floor. In the silence that followed she could barely hear a quiet ringing sound.
She tried to grasp the torc with her magic. Nothing. It was like the massive metal necklace wasn't even there; her magic passed through it like air. She could feel the power brushing against her bare chest.
She couldn't remove it. Luna couldn't remove it. There was only one pony who might be able to take it away without killing her.
Trixie closed her eyes and focused. There was a flash of light that filled the car and the trainyard beyond, and when it cleared she stood atop the trolley, her silver mane – what remained of it, anyway – flowing in the gentle pre-dawn breeze.
To the west the moon was nearing the horizon. To the east the dawn was only hours away from its daily birth into the sky. Already the world around her seemed to glow with the faint light of early morning, as each rock and building took on form and detail that had been lost to the darkness. Only the sky, still dark and filled with countless stars, still clung to the night. Trixie looked up at them, for perhaps the last time in her life.
She looked away. The moon and stars were too full of memories, too full of regrets. She blinked at the sudden wetness in her eyes.
Her horn glowed again, echoed by a larger glow around the entire car, and slowly it began to coast along the rails toward the far end of the trainyard. There was no way to change the car's route. She had already chosen her destination.
Slowly at first, then with greater speed, Trixie rode her stolen train car south. Behind her, the lights of Las Pegasus began to fade with the dawn.
***
The trainyard was empty by the time Applejack and a limping Twilight Sparkle emerged from the cavernous station. The sky above them was no longer black, but rather a deep indigo that would have matched Luna's coat beautifully. Twilight frowned at the comparison and shoved it out of her mind. There were more important things to worry about than the color of the night.
“See anything?” she asked Applejack. Her vision was still blurred from the concussion. The stars were dim smudges, and the horizon was no longer a solid line of mountains but rather a vague blur that bled earth and sky together into a single dark, infinite mass. She blinked her eyes rapidly, to no avail.
“Uh, you're not gonna believe this,” Applejack said, “but I think she's stealing a train.”
Twilight did believe it. It was, in fact, one of the possibilities she had expected from Trixie (the other, more mundane possibility being to stow away on a train). Still, it was one thing to expect such a grand and blatant theft, and quite another to be standing in an empty trainyard, wondering how to catch a runaway train.
She could see the train now, a silver glow outside the south gate slowly receding into the distance. Trixie was already a mile away. There was no way they could catch her on hoof.
South, south. Why would Trixie want to head south? There was, literally, nothing to the south of them, now that Appleloosa had been obliterated. Even the rail line Trixie was using ended in Appleloosa's ruins. The only thing of any interest in the desert south of Las Pegasus was Celestia herself, and she would be awake soon. The thought brought her up short.
“Applejack, how far away would you say Celestia is?”
“Ah, I'd say about 20 miles. We made it to Las Pegasus not long after she went down.”
Twilight glanced to the east. Dawn was still over an hour away. Trixie could easily reach Celestia before the sun rose. But why? She sat down, her head aching as she tried to concentrate. What felt like a huge knot was beginning to grow on the back of her skull. Stupid, dense concrete.
“Sug? Whatcha thinking?” Applejack gave her a quick look-over from horn to hooves, the skin around her eyes tight with worry.
“Trixie, I think she's heading to Celestia. She's going to get herself killed.”
Applejack flinched. “That don't seem like something she'd do, Twilight. She must have something up her sleeve.”
Twilight thought back to Luna. The sight of the alicorn's hoof, bloody and seared, stuck in her mind. She shuddered and tried to think of anything else to get the image away. It remained, stubborn, taunting her with its implications. Slowly, reluctantly, she gave voice to them.
“She was able to hurt Luna, somehow,” she said. A cold feeling crept up her limbs. “That should have been impossible. We saw Luna walk through lava like it was water. That torc... necklace... whatever it is, it's somehow giving her incredible strength.”
“So? What's that got to do with Celestia?”
Twilight's mouth went dry. “So, if she can hurt one princess, maybe she can hurt the other? Especially if she's still asleep?”
Applejack frowned, her ears turning to lie flat against her mane. “No, Trixie wouldn't do that. Nopony would do that... It's Celestia, for pete's sake!”
“She stole the torc, Applejack. She let Canterlot and Appleloosa burn. Hurt Luna. She could've ended all this at any time, just by turning herself in. We would have gotten the torc off somehow.”
“And if we hadn't? What if there's now way to remove it besides killing her?”
Twilight was silent for a while. She didn't want to put her next thought into words, but it had to be said. “Then eventually Celestia would catch her, and she would die anyway. Better... better just her than the whole world.” It was the cruelest sentence she had ever spoken. Her breath shook in her chest as the gall, the utter hubris of her words struck home. Who was she, little Twilight Sparkle, to condemn another pony to death? To render such a terrible and final verdict? Was she now a god?
“You... you don't mean that,” Applejack said. She edged away from Twilight, her eyes wide.
But she did. Her vision was clear now, as clear as the thoughts in her mind. Terrible and cruel her decision may have been, it was still correct. Luna was right. Trixie had to be stopped, by any means necessary. Even death was an acceptable tool.
Twilight stood. She gave Applejack a long, silent stare, and noticed for the first time in days just how tired the other mare appeared. She wasn't invincible after all: her coat was just as scuffed and dirty as Twilight's, her eyes just as bagged and bloodshot, her face just as haggard. The old Stetson hat upon her mane was battered and worn, and the expression on her face was confused and shocked by Twilight's easy condemnation.
“We can't let her reach Celestia,” Twilight said. It was easy to say, now that her choice was made. The path lay before her – difficult, yes, but no longer strewn with doubt and ambiguity. They had to stop Trixie by whatever means were necessary. “Are you going to help me or not?”
Applejack looked stricken. She stared at Twilight like she was a stranger, one who had walked up out of the blue and demanded something horrible, something incomprehensible. Slowly she shook her head.
Anger flared in Twilight, but just as quickly it burnt out. Had she not refused Luna's demand, so similar, just hours before? The thought of the wounded alicorn was a weight on her shoulders. I should have helped her.
“Twi, you can't do this.” Applejack licked her lips, glancing around the empty trainyard as though hoping for a rescue. Only the empty moonlit night was there to help her.
Twilight sighed quietly. “I can. I have to.” She stood and walked over to the rail lines Trixie had left upon. Her steps were sure and even, as though her concussion were a distant memory. Every detail – the grain of the rail ties, the glint of moonlight on the polished metal rails, the sharp scent of dust and warm iron – stood out with unnatural clarity. She had never felt more alive than this moment.
She couldn't catch Trixie on her hooves alone. A quick glance around the trainyard found a suitable chariot for her, a lone passenger car detached from its train. She closed her eyes and concentrated.
The glare from her horn outshone Trixie's by an order of magnitude as the car slowly lifted from its tracks and floated across the yard before her. Pausing a moment to orient the car with the tracks, she slowly let it down onto the rails. The ground beneath her groaned at the sudden weight.
It was no strain at all. She didn't even break a sweat. Without looking back, she hopped into the car and trotted to the front. The empty doorway looked out onto the empty desert to their south. Far away, barely visible, she could see the faint silver glow from Trixie's car.
There was a grunt and clap of hooves behind her. She didn't have to look back to see who they belonged to.
“Thank you,” she said.
Applejack mumbled something unintelligible, then spoke louder. “I can't let you do this alone. If there's a way to stop her without hurtin' her, we're doing it.”
“Of course,” Twilight said. It was a lie; she had already decided what to do. If Applejack, the Element of Honesty, could sense her deception, she kept it to herself.
A brilliant purple glow consumed the car. Within moments it was rolling along the tracks, propelled by Twilight's magic. The wind whistled through the open door and set their manes whipping like flags.
Ahead of them, Trixie's car slowly grew larger. To the west, the moon touched the western ridge of mountains. In the east, the glow of the incipient dawn began to light the world.
***
Trixie's target was clear. A trickle of smoke, thin as a rope but stretching miles into the air, marked Celestia's most recent resting place. The upper reaches of the smoke glowed a light pink, as the rays of the rising sun painted it and the sparse clouds alike.
Time was short. A half hour, maybe? Perhaps less. It all depended on how quickly Celestia woke, and whether any sentience remained within her before she turned into a star. Trixie could only hope the princess would be capable of helping her. Capable and willing, she amended.
She was strangely calm. Nothing like the frantic nervousness of Appleloosa bothered her now. The confrontation with Luna had wrung out all the terror of her flight from justice. Whatever happened with Celestia, she would accept it. There was nothing to do but hope.
A slight smile touched her face at that thought. Her, Trixie, so calmly accepting the possibility of death. She doubted her old self, from just days ago, would have recognized this new pony.
Her reverie was broken by a sudden slight tug on the train, as though it had somehow struck a patch of mud on the rails. She frowned and looked down at the car and tracks. Nothing. Just her imagination. She let out a quiet breath and turned back to the scenery before her.
The ground was slowly beginning to brighten. It seemed to glow with its own light, somehow managing to appear brighter than the sky above. Faint colors began to emerge from the uniform gray of the pre-dawn. Rose and beige, lavender and peach. The Pastel Desert reclaimed its namesake as the sun approached the horizon.
There was another tug, stronger than the first. She turned in a slow circle atop the train car, her eyes searching. There was still nothing, just the faint silver glow of her horn's magic, tinged ever so slightly purple in the faint light. Tinged, or...
She looked up sharply. Behind her, perhaps a mile back on the tracks, was another car. Barely through the distance she could make out a pair of ponies standing inside the carriage. A bright purple spark shone at her like a headlight.
So, they hadn't given up after all. For some insane reason they were chasing her, perhaps to their deaths. “Idiots,” she said under her breath. The whipping winds stole her words away.
Idiots, maybe, but powerful idiots. For Twilight to be able to reach Trixie's car from such a distance with her magic was impressive. Memories of an Ursa Minor, floating through the air into a distance forest, flashed in her mind. Twilight was not a normal unicorn.
But now, neither was Trixie. She glanced down at the torc around her neck, then back at Twilight's car. Her eyes closed, and she reached out with her magic to grip the iron rails behind her car. They felt soft in her grip, like clay. She gave them a mental wrench, and they tore as easily as paper. Her momentum pulled them out of the ground and spilled them across the desert like a pair of twisted metal strings.
It occurred to her, moments later, that Twilight might not have any way to stop her car before hitting the mangled tracks. She hadn't wanted to hurt the unicorn and her friend.
Too late. She leaned forward as Twilight's car neared the break. At the last possible second there was a bright flash from the cab. An instant later the car hit the broken line.
For a moment it kept coming. A huge cloud of dust erupted from beneath its wheels, and slowly the entire carriage began to spin sideways. The wheels caught on the wooden ties, and the car tipped over, still moving forward faster than any normal train. Rolling now, it rapidly disintegrated, sending shards of wood and metal flying high into the air. Eventually, only the metal frame remained, tumbling slowly down the tracks until it too was concealed in a massive cloud of dust.
She must have teleported. She had to! Trixie spun again, searching the surrounding desert for the mirroring flash that would signal that Twilight had escaped the car. Nothing could have survived inside it.
There was nothing as far as she could see. She turned back to the ruined carriage, already receding in the distance, when she heard an unexpected sound in the car beneath her. A muffled thump, followed by the hiss of a hushed conversation, barely intelligible over the rushing winds and roar of the train over the tracks.
For a moment she was stunned. Part of her marveled at the feat of magic Twilight had just pulled off – teleporting not just herself but another pony more than a thousand feet, onto a moving target, with only seconds to prepare. Trixie couldn't imagine the amount of sheer magical power such a jump would take.
She didn't have long to ponder it. There was another flash, and a pair of ponies appeared atop the car with her. They both stumbled from the unexpected blast of wind; the smaller one, Twilight, fell to her knees and didn't rise. Apparently all the teleporting wasn't so easy for her after all.
Applejack, unfortunately, had no such issues. She immediately righted herself and stared dead at Trixie. Her hat, absurdly, somehow still perched atop her mane, adding several hooves to her height and making her appear all the more intimidating in the early morning glow. Trixie unconsciously took a step back from the mare and the angry glare on her face.
“Give it up, Trixie,” Twilight said as she slowly came to her hooves. She looked terrible, Trixie thought. Battered and beaten, with one hoof wrapped in a thick bandage. Her eyes, however, were wide and alert.
“I told you, I can't!” Trixie shouted. “What would you have me do, you fool? The sun is almost up!”
Twilight glanced involuntarily to the east. The horizon was a bright red shading to pink in the vault of the sky. If it weren't for the high mountains, the light of dawn would already be upon them.
“We... we can still try something...” she said, weakly. Trixie barely heard her over the rattle of the car.
“Try? Try?!” Trixie spat the words at them. “There's nothing left to try! I have to get to her!” The smoke column of Celestia's fall was close, no more than a mile away. Soon she would have to leave the tracks to reach her.
“I'm sorry, Trixie.” She really did look sorry. Trixie had never seen such an anguished look on anypony's face, outside of a mirror. “But,” she continued, “we can't let you do this. It's too late.” Twilight's horn sparked with a brilliant purple light, and a sudden brisk wind tugged at Trixie's form.
The wind died almost instantly, though. A quiet ring emerged from the torc, and the amethyst stone pulsed with its own light. An unpleasant sensation, like insects crawling across her skin, suddenly invaded Trixie's mind.
Twilight frowned as the glow around her horn faded. “Fine, no magic, then.” She turned to Applejack. “Can you grab her?”
“My pleasure.” The earth pony snorted and lowered her head. She pawed once at the metal roof, then dashed across the train car toward Trixie. In less than an instant she crossed the dozen feet separating them.
Too fast.Trixie barely had time to think. She certainly didn't have time for magic; instead she tossed herself to the side, barely avoiding Applejack's grasping hooves. She landed on her side and rolled nearly to the edge of the car before sliding to a stop. The empty space past the edge of the roof was just inches away as she scrambled back up.
Applejack was already moving again. She spun on one hoof with a grace that Trixie would have found admirable under other circumstances, and dashed toward her again. She feinted with her legs, then suddenly darted forward with her mouth, grasping a hold of Trixie's silver mane.
It hurt! Trixie held back a howl as she was tugged violently back to the center of the roof. She batted at Applejack's head with her hooves, but she might as well have been swatting at stone. The earth pony was unshakable.
Trixie was not a fighter. She had learned long ago that it was better to avoid fights, or to flee from them, than to try and stick up for herself. Trying to fight back just meant getting hurt. But now she was getting hurt, and there was no running away. It was time to fight back.
First, she had to get loose. She dropped her hooves back to the metal roof and concentrated, imagining a razor-sharp filament of magical force. A faint silver thread, barely visible in the dawning light, appeared before her eyes, undulating gently in an unfelt breeze. She concentrated again, and the filament moved, sliding along the back of her head. There was the gentlest of tugs, and she fell away from Applejack, suddenly free.
Applejack stumbled backward, the remains of Trixie's mane in her mouth. She spat out the silver strands, then stared at the unicorn, an astonished look on her face.
Trixie didn't give her time to recover. She focused again, this time on the corrugated metal slats beneath Applejack's feet. They trembled, and with a loud squealing sound broke away from the rest of the train and wrapped around Applejack's legs. The thin metal sheets bit cruelly into her skin and locked her in place.
One down. Trixie turned back to Twilight, who was staring at her from the far side of the car. She didn't seem any, or shocked, or otherwise affected by the fight. If anything, Trixie thought, she looked sad.
Trixie took a deep breath, willing herself to calm. When her heartbeat no longer raced in her ears, she shouted at her foe. “You can't stop me, Twilight. Your magic can't touch me!”
Twilight stared at her for a long moment. Beneath them, the train bounced erratically as it raced over the tracks. The wind felt odd against Trixie's buzzed mane, as though it were clawing directly at her skull. She shook her head in annoyance.
“Maybe not,” Twilight finally said. “But I can stop this train.” She closed her eyes, and a blinding glow spilled out of her horn.
Oh nononono. Ahead of them, in the middle of the tracks, the earth suddenly erupted, sending wooden ties and iron spikes fountaining into the air. The metal rails buckled and leapt from their moorings, spilling across the desert like snakes escaping from their burrow. As the dust cleared, a huge crater emerged, large enough to swallow the car whole. It was just seconds away.
There was another flash, and suddenly Twilight was gone. Trixie was alone on the car as it raced toward destruction. Her heart jumped into her throat, and in a moment of panic she did one of the worst things a unicorn can do.
Her eyes closed, and she teleported in the blind. Not to any particular spot, just anywhere but there.
There was a silver flash atop the car. A moment later it sped off the broken rails into the newborn crater, still surrounded by a cloud of settling dust. A tremendous crash filled the still desert for the second time that morning, and Trixie's ride came to an end.
***
Twilight and Applejack landed a half a mile away from the tracks. Seconds later the muffled crack of the train slamming into the crater reached them. Echoes rolled across the desert for minutes afterward, bouncing off the distant mountains.
Twilight glanced around. No sign of Trixie. Unsure if that was a good or a bad sign, she turned to Applejack. “Are you okay?” she asked.
Applejack was sitting on her haunches, looking more confused than hurt. Angry red lines wrapped around her legs where Trixie had bound her with the metal sheets, but otherwise she seemed fine.
“Er... I think so. Did... did you do that?”
A long silence was her only answer. Twilight looked away, eventually setting her gaze on the faintly visible trail of smoke rising from Celestia's resting spot. It was less than a mile away, and at its base they could faintly see a white shape, slowly growing lighter as the sun rose.
Applejack tried again. “Twilight?”
“We did it,” Twilight responded softly. “The sun will rise in a few minutes. Even if she survived that, there's no way Trixie can reach Celestia before she wakes. Celestia will catch her, and it will all be over.”
It was over, and they had done it. Success. Trixie was going to die. The thought took a moment too sink in. Twilight began to tremble, and her head lowered nearly to the desert floor. The cracked earth blurred as her eyes watered, and the first of many sobs wracked her tiny frame.
Applejack was silent for a while. Eventually Twilight heard a sigh, and the muffled thud of hooves on the desert floor.
“C'mon Twi. What's done is done. We need to get somewhere safe.”
Right, safe. Twilight sniffed loudly and looked up. Celestia was shining now, brighter than the dawn behind them. If they didn't move, she would burn them up.
There were some large rock outcroppings less than a mile away. Applejack was already trotting toward them, pausing ever few seconds to stop and look back at Twilight. With a final, silent sigh, Twilight stood and followed.
***
Trixie was, for the first time in days, incredibly lucky.
Her blind teleport did not put her inside of a mountain, or a thousand feet in the air, or halfway inside of a tree. She did not appear in multiple places in multiple pieces. She did not, like some poor unicorns, simply disappear from the face of the world, never to be seen again. Despite her panic and mere moment to prepare, she managed what could have been called a safe teleport, appearing just a few feet above the desert floor, hundreds of yards from the crashing train.
What she did not do, unfortunately, was compensate for her momentum. Trixie fell the few feet to the desert still traveling as fast as the speeding train. She barely had time to register the oddly-blurred ground beneath her and the whipping winds before she slammed into the earth and tumbled like a rag doll for dozens of feet. A trail of dust rose from the furrow she carved in the earth, and began drifting away with the wind as she came to a stop.
When the dust cleared, she was still alive and conscious. Again, fortunately, no boulders or cacti had been in her path. Even the earth was relatively soft, a mixture of sand and soil that broke her fall and gently slowed her to a stop.
All that said, Trixie did not feel like a lucky pony. She felt terrible. At least one leg was broken above the ankle, half her hide felt like it was missing, and her breath wheezed in her lungs. She coughed weakly and spat out an ugly mixture of phlegm and dirt.
The torc, she noticed, was still as bright and clean as the moment she had found it, sitting upon Celestia's stand. Not a scratch marred its flawless surface. Even the dust seemed to slide away from it, as though it could find no purchase upon the perfect gold.
She had never hated it more than that one moment. The urge to hook her hoof under the gold rim and pull until it tore away was nearly irresistible. Only the memory of terrible pain and blood running down her blue coat forestalled such an attempt.
Instead she levered herself to her hooves. Her broken foreleg wouldn't support her weight, and she cradled it awkwardly against her chest. It hurt, but only distantly, as though her body realized she had more important things to worry about than a mere broken bone.
Important things like Celestia. She hobbled in a clumsy circle, her eyes scanning the horizon for the thin trail of smoke that marked the goddess's slumber. The sky was alarmingly bright, well beyond the pink of early dawn, already shading into the soft blue of morning. Far to the east, behind the high line of mountains, the sun was already lighting the world.
She never saw the smoke. What she did see was a bright glow surrounding a shining white kernel, barely two hundred yards away. The light spilling off of Celestia's coat was already casting long shadows across the desert floor. The princess was lying prone, her wings stretched wide on either side, partially concealed by a layer of smokey, cracked glass that looked almost like tar. As Trixie watched, one of the huge white wings began to rise.
Time was up. Trixie broke into a run, her three good legs pounding at the sand in a desperate, off-tempo gait.
She could feel the sun on her face.
***
Celestia woke slowly. For the second time in two days she regained conscience far from home, in an alien setting, with no idea how she had come there.
“There,” in this case, was a shallow crater partially filled with melted sand, in the middle of a relatively flat portion of the Pastel desert. The gentle hues of the sands were gone from around her – the heat of her crash had fused the grains together and colored them a uniform, ugly gray. Streaks of soot marred her wings and coat, blemishing them with a mottle of grays and blacks. She looked, her muddled mind imagined, something like a zebra.
She could hear the sun calling to her. Its song reached easily through the thin scab of mountains blocking its light, though enough of its rays were refracted by the atmosphere to revitalize her. Even as the heavy cloak of sleep fell from her mind, the power of the sun began to crowd away her thoughts.
It was a contest, one she was bound to lose. In a few minutes the sun would breach the horizon, and the thinking being known as Celestia would be gone again. Only a god, terrible and powerful and single-minded, would remain.
She wanted to weep, but already that emotion was beyond her. She had hoped to see Luna and Twilight again, but instead she woke alone. Alone, perhaps forever, for who would ever chance standing so close to a star? All she could ever offer was a few minutes of disjointed conversation, before incinerating her companions.
The melted glass covering her wings cracked, and she flexed them without thinking. Her legs were still stuck in the solid earth, but she could feel the stone beginning to weaken as the sun rose. Solid matter would soon have no lease on her.
She was about to break free and launch into the air when something unusual happened. Out of the empty desert a battered, wounded pony appeared, running toward her. Upon the pony's chest was the last thing she ever expected to see.
***
“We're out of time!” Twilight's warning was unnecessary. The light behind them was blinding, even facing away from it. The scattered reflections off the sand and rocks around them dug into their eyes like daggers.
She and Applejack ran faster, whipped on by the building heat behind them. The nearest cover, a row of rocky outcroppings, was still thousands of feet ahead. There was no way they would reach it in time.
“There!” Applejack shouted. She veered off course, heading toward a lonely boulder sitting on the flat sands just a hundred feet away. It was barely larger than a pony. Not the best shield against what Twilight knew was coming.
Still, it was better than nothing. Twilight limped after Applejack as fast as she could, and pressed against her friend in the small shadow the boulder provided. It was cramped, and they huddled in each others' arms, their breath and pounding hearts the only sound in the desert. Just inches away the light from Celestia's awakening turning the desert sand an impossible, blinding white.
A hot wind began to blow away from Celestia's resting place. The air kicked up sand and dust, blocking out some of the light. For a few moments it was merely as bright as noon behind their rock, until the hot air became too thin to lift even dust into the air. Together, breathing the burning air, they began to suffocate.
There was no spell to help in this circumstance, for no magician had ever considered it. Twilight improvised, creating a shield around them that did nothing to block the light, but managed to trap and cool enough air for them to breathe. Enough to live another minute or so, Twilight realized calmly. She tried to say something reassuring to Applejack, but the scalding air burned her throat.
The shadow cast by the boulder was brighter than the brightest summer day, but the sand beyond it was like the sun itself. Through her clenched eyes, Twilight saw a sage bush a few feet away turn to ash and drift away. The tip of Applejack's hat, peeking above the boulder, blackened and caught fire. Applejack knocked it away with a hoof; it floated for a moment, then burst into flame and vanished as well.
Their boulder began to pop. Chips of stone, smoking hot, cracked and leapt into the air as its surface heated and expanded. A few fragments of stone landed beside them in the shadow. They glowed.
To the east, the sun broke fully over the mountains, bringing the light of morning to the desert. Neither Twilight nor Applejack noticed.
It was not bright enough to see.
***
Trixie reached the crater just as Celestia stood. She stumbled to an awkward halt, nearly tumbling into the glassy bowl, as the full power and majesty of the god struck her.
Celestia had always been a beautiful pony. Now she was sublime, in every sense of the term. Her mane was a lucent cloud that floated around her like a corona, every color and yet none. The energy pouring from Celestia's body turned everything white. There was only light and shadow, and as the sun rose further the shadows retreated, growing smaller and smaller until the power of the goddess banished them for the day.
Trixie should have been blinded, she realized. Staring at Celestia was like staring at a thousand suns. The thick, smokey glass beneath her hooves began to crack from the heat. Still, Trixie's hooves were unburned, and her eyes traced the outline of Celestia's mane and wings against the black sky behind her.
The torc was humming, loud enough to vibrate the air in her lungs. She could barely hear it above the sound of the shattering glass. Aside from Celestia, the torc was the only object still visible. It looked no different than the first time she had seen it, perched upon Celestia's breast, just over a month ago.
She took a step forward. Her hooves almost skidded on the melting glass. Her coat, which should have burst into flames long ago, barely felt warm. The glass stretched like taffy beneath her, and she slowly slid down the crater toward Celestia. As she drew nearer the torc grew louder, until it nearly screamed in the thin, vanishing air between them.
The sound peaked. For a moment it held, a loud ringing note that drowned out all thoughts, and then it began to die away. The light dug at Trixie's eyes, and the sweat on her coat began to sizzle. Tendrils of smoke rose from the rim of her hooves.
Time was up. The torc, it seemed, had a limit after all. As her coat began to ignite, Trixie stretched out her wounded hoof to touch the goddess, now just feet away.
Her hoof felt something solid and warm, and the pain ceased.
***
The being that was once called Celestia looked down in confusion. She could have sworn another life form had just stood before her. Now there was nothing, nothing except the clarion call of her torc. It had found her at last.
Her horn glowed as she reached out to it. Had any pony been able to survive standing next to her, they would have actually seen the glow – it was the only visible light left. The rest of her radiance had long since risen beyond the pitifully weak energies that mortal eyes could see. What Twilight Sparkle would have called soft x-rays turned the desert around her into an opaque fireball.
The torc had sunk several feet into the molten earth. Her magic grasped it and pulled it out of the liquid rock to hover before her. It was untouched by the heat – its short bath in the lava had done nothing more that clean it for her.
She lowered her horn and touched it against the amethyst crystal. There was a flash, and the torc reappeared around her chest. The star burning in her heart pulsed for another moment, then snuffed out like a candle. The being, now Celestia again, fell into the pool of lava and sank nearly to her chest.
The fireball around her, no longer fed by her furnace, vanished in an instant. For a mile around her, a huge dome of superheated air warred briefly with the colder, denser air of the desert and high atmosphere. The stasis lasted for only a moment before the heat radiated into space.
In equilibrium no longer, the air shock-compressed into a tiny space barely larger than a wagon, centered around Celestia's struggling form. The collapsing front struck her with the force of a bomb, and a minute later the loudest clap of thunder ever heard on Equestria shattered windows in Las Pegasus, twenty miles away.
***
Some months later...
Celestia lowered herself to the floor as the last of the petitioners left her throne room. Much of her former strength had returned, but a long day of listening to complaints still sapped the energy from her. She felt a yawn coming on and managed to suppress it. It wasn't good form to show such weakness in front of her court.
Canterlot was recovering nicely. Outside the large windows of the city hall she could see wood scaffolds in the distance toward the mountain. If she looked hard enough she could see tiny, colorful dots moving across the beams, slowly chipping away at the avalanche of stone and lava that had buried half the city.
Her palace would never be rebuilt, at least not as it had been. A huge portion of the mountain where it once perched was simply gone. There was talk of building a new keep at ground level, more accessible to the common ponies. Others whispered of the ancient Palace of the Sisters in the Everfree Forest, suggesting that it be dismantled stone by stone and carted to Canterlot. Celestia quietly squashed such notions whenever they surfaced – she preferred that palace where it was.
The city hall was not up to the standards of her former grandeur, but to tell the truth she didn't mind. The age of castles was rapidly drawing into the past, as her ponies took more and more of the burdens of rule upon themselves. Someday soon the city hall would be the only government they would need. She looked forward to that day.
But that day was not yet come. Equestria still needed its princess.
Princesses, she corrected herself. Plural. The distinctive clop-clop-clop-ting! of her sister's gait sounded on the polished marble stones. Celestia sighed quietly and turned her head to the throne that had been hastily set up beside hers.
Luna had grown over the summer. She was nearly as tall as Celestia now, and her mane flowed with the same ethereal waves that seemed to defy wind and gravity. Her coat was several shades darker, and in the golden evening light appeared nearly black. She was a far different pony than the bookish filly Celestia remembered.
Not all her changes were for the better: her left foreleg ended just below the ankle. The indigo fur of her coat blended smoothly with a metal foot, painstakingly crafted by the greatest silversmith in Equestria. Clever articulated joints bent the false hoof with each of her steps, and she now walked as naturally as ever. If one didn't look closely, only the metallic ting as it landed gave her false hoof away.
“Good evening, sister.” Celestia leaned over to nuzzle Luna's cheek.
Luna wasn't having it. She shied away gracefully, disdaining her sister's affections. A quiet mutter sprung up among the remaining courtiers. Rumors of tension between the princesses had been rampant since they returned, wounded and defeated, three months ago.
Celestia bit back the rebuke on her tongue. It would do nothing for Luna's mood to be chastised in front of the court, and it would certainly do nothing to dispel the rumors. Instead she put on her usual gentle smile, and acted as though the snub had not occurred. Where physical affections had failed, perhaps conversation could win the field.
“The equinox is in a few days,” she said, turning to look out the west windows at the setting sun. A thin layer of clouds hung just above the burning orb, tinted a brilliant red by its fading light. “I thought we might visit an earth pony town for the Running of the Leaves. Ponyville, perhaps.”
Luna took a seat on cushion set before her throne. She tossed her head absently, as though shaking out her mane, then stared straight ahead. Statues held more emotion in their faces than she.
Celestia waited to see if she would respond. Minutes passed in silence.
“Twilight wrote me a nice letter the other day,” Celestia continued, as though she were engaged in an actual conversation. Normally she would never discuss the contents of Twilight's correspondence so openly, but she didn't think Twilight would mind in this case. “She said her hoof has nearly healed, and she hopes to be able to run in the race.”
If Luna heard her, she gave no sign.
“She asked about you.”
That got a response. Luna's eyes and right ear flicked over to face Celestia.
Now it was Celestia's turn. She waited silently for Luna's curiosity to overcome her ill mood. It wasn't a long wait.
“And? What did you tell her?” Luna asked.
“I haven't answered yet,” Celestia said. She kept her voice low, just for her sister. “But I want to tell her I'm worried about you. Worried that you're slipping away again.”
Luna snorted. “Courteous of you, assuming she cares about my health. She is simply being polite.”
“That's not true. You don't give her enough credit.”
There was another pause. Luna's eyes turned forward again, scanning the idling court with feigned interest.
“I gave her a chance,” she finally said. “When I needed her, she forsook me. When I trusted her, she betrayed me. Whatever friendship she claimed to hold in her heart for me was a weak and insignificant maggot, stepped upon as soon as its purpose was served. You say I don't give her credit? That is not true, sister. No, I don't trouble myself with thinking of her at all.”
And there it was. After three months, it was finally out in the open. Celestia gave her sister a moment to settle before speaking.
“Which unicorn are you speaking of, again?”
Luna spun toward her, all pretense of indifference gone. Her eyes widened, then narrowed dangerously.
“How... how dare you!?” Luna's wings mantled, blocking out the light streaming in from the western wall. “I told you to never speak of her!” Her shrill voice reached a peak, and a dark flash filled the room, robbing every pony's sight. When the light returned an instant later, Luna was gone.
***
It was another week before Luna returned to Canterlot.
Celestia was atop one of the few remaining towers in the city. Originally a guard post, it had lost its purpose as the city slowly grew, leaving it an isolated spire in the center of the wealthy merchant district. Eventually, as the centuries passed, there were no longer any walls for it to guard.
Over the years it had been used for storage, as a small prison, a library, an eccentric mage's house, and finally an observatory to view the stars. Now it was the tallest structure left standing in Canterlot, and Celestia often came to it with the dawn, to view the rising sun. She sat on the circular balcony surrounding the central spire, waiting for the pink sky to lighten into the powder blue of day.
Beside her, a shadow moved the wrong way. She gave it a moment, and sure enough the stark, sable form of her sister resolved beside her.
“Sister,” she said with a tiny nod.
Luna settled onto the balcony. This early in the day, there were no other ponies around. The few merchants wandering the streets far below them never thought to look up.
“Sister,” Luna said. “I'm sorry.”
“You don't need to be. You know that.”
Luna snorted. By the way her ears flicked, however, Celestia knew she was amused rather than offended. “You forgive too easily.”
“It is possible,” Celestia said. She turned back to the rising sun. “But it is a wonderful thing to forgive. It improves us. It makes us better.”
“Hmph. Have you no pride? To forgive so easily means to suffer offense after offense.” Luna cast a glance at the torc around Celestia's neck. Its polished gold was brilliant in the light of the dawn. “You make yourself vulnerable to ponies who lack your sense of moral clarity.”
Celestia looked down at the torc. A shadow briefly touched her calm expression, like a cloud passing across the sun. But just as quickly it was gone, and the serene radiance that was her hallmark returned.
“A point,” she said. “But what is the value of pride, sister? Did pride win you the love and adoration you thought you deserved?”
Luna was silent for a while. Around them the city grew louder as more ponies woke and went about their days. The empty white streets slowly filled with a trickle of pastels.
“No,” she said. “Pride lost me everything. It was love that won me love.”
“Hm,” Celestia replied. They were quiet again as the sun rose.
As the day wore on, a few ponies joined them on the balcony. Sensing, perhaps, that the sisters were sharing a special moment, they kept their distance. The sight of their rulers sitting peacefully together was welcome, and soon enough a small crowd had gathered around the edges of the balcony and in the street below. A few pegasi perched upon the sloped roof above them.
“I regret what I didn't tell her,” Luna said. It was the first sentence either had spoken in several hours.
“Twilight? You can always visit her.”
“Not her,” Luna said. She squinted up at the sun. It had been a long time since she had seen the full light of noon. “Trixie. The last time we saw each other was filled with anger and violence. And now I will never be able to tell her how much she mattered to me. How much I valued her friendship.”
Celestia said nothing.
Luna waited for a response. The silence between them drew out uncomfortably.
“Well? Don't you have some ancient wisdom or soothing proverb to answer that?” she asked.
Celestia shifted her weight. The crowd around them, sensing the tension between them, began to back away.
Luna turned toward her sister. “What? What are you hiding?”
“It's complicated.”
“Complicated?” Luna stomped her silver hoof, rattling the wooden balcony, which abruptly became much less crowded. The pegasi above them took to the air. “What are you keeping from me?”
Celestia sighed. “It was for your own good, Luna. You were too hurt. Unstable. You might have done something unwise.”
Luna opened her mouth, baring her teeth. Then, to Celestia's immense surprise, she sighed as well and sank back to the floor.
“You are right that I was hurt,” she said. “I was, perhaps, not thinking clearly. But if you have some secret hiding in there,” she reached out and poked Celestia's chest with her hoof, “you should tell me.”
Celestia rubbed the spot with her hoof. It didn't hurt, of course, but she was very rarely rebuked in such an effective fashion by her sister. That fact hurt more than anything else.
“Let me answer you with a question,” she said, looking up to meet Luna's gaze. “What would you have done if I had told you, back when we first returned to Canterlot, that Trixie was still alive and in hiding.”
Luna started to speak immediately. Celestia cut her off before she could start.
“Answer me honestly.”
Luna scowled, but closed her mouth. She sat in thought, her eyes narrowed and glancing rapidly around the town below them.
“You want to know what I would have done? I would have hunted her down and killed her. It was the least she deserved for all the pain and suffering she caused. It would have been justice.”
Celestia didn't seem upset by the answer. She simply nodded. “Most ponies would have agreed. What if I had told you the same thing, one month ago?”
Luna shrugged and flicked one of her wingtips absently, as though brushing away a fly. “I would not have cared. I would have put her out of my mind.”
“I see. And if I told you, right now, that she was alive, what would you do?”
Luna sucked in a quick breath of air. “What are you saying, sister? Is she alive?”
“Answer the question. What would you do?”
“No!” Luna shouted and stood. “That's not fair! You can't ask a question like that and call it rhetorical. You can't dangle something like that in front of a pony. It's not fair!”
“You're right. It's not fair. But answer me anyway.”
“Fine!” Luna huffed, her wings spread in agitation. “I would find her and... I don't know. Apologize? Ask her forgiveness? Maybe just thank her for being a friend, before...” she trailed off and sighed. “Before.”
Silence returned as Celestia gave her sister a measuring look. Her smile was gone, replaced by a tiny frown and a crease between her eyes.
Eventually, Luna's patience wore out. “Well? Is she alive, then, or was this just a cruel philosophical exercise?”
“I would never intentionally be cruel to you, Luna. If ever I have hurt you, it was out of love.”
“And Trixie?” Luna shot back. Her words dripped with acid. “When you killed her, was it out of love?”
“I did not kill Trixie,” Celestia said. “You ask if my questions are rhetorical? No, they are not. Trixie was alive when last I saw her.”
That brought Luna up short. A wary look crossed her face. “Explain yourself, sister.”
Now it was Celestia's turn to shrug. “You know how Trixie found me. The torc was protecting her with its last iota of power, but it was about to fail. If I hadn't acted, she would have died.”
“Acted? What is that supposed to mean?”
“Well, I'm a little hazy on the details... I wasn't quite myself, as you know, but I knew she was in danger. So I did to her what I did to you, back in the Solarium.” She glanced over the balcony toward the center of town. Much of the Solarium had already been rebuilt, and new scaffolds stretched into the sky where more buildings were under construction.
“You... you teleported her? Where?!” Luna stood. Her wings fanned out, ready to lift her into the air.
Now Celestia seemed pained. “No, not teleported, not quite. That would have required focus, which I lacked at the time. Instead I sent her away.”
“Away?”
“Yes, away.”
“'Away' is not a place,” Luna said. She seemed to be having trouble keeping her voice under control. “Where is she?”
“She is not in a place. She is between places, if that makes any sense. Banished, much like you were, though not to the moon. Not anywhere. Nowhere.”
“Banished.” Luna stared at her. “You banished her.”
“It was that or incinerate her,” Celestia said. The first hint of anger entered her voice. “I think I made the right choice, considering the circumstances. You are, of course, free to disagree.”
“So, you just... you...” Luna tumbled to a stop, quivering. With a great display of effort she forced her wings back to her side, and when she spoke it was even, flat and dangerous. “Very well, you banished her. If we assume, for the moment, that you did the right thing, how would we get her back?”
“Someone would have to go fetch her.”
“And what would that entail?”
“Quite a bit of danger,” Celestia said. She looked Luna up and down, from mane to false hoof. “Where she is, there is nothing else. It is empty, and she fills it with her own fears and desires. It is her emotions that trap her, and anyone else who enters would find themselves warring against their own fallibility as well. The rescuer might find themselves trapped.”
Luna sat in silence. Hours passed, the sun stretched across the sky, and the world around them went about its business. The crowds in the tower swelled and retreated as the day moved on, and it wasn't until the golden glow of evening began to fill the town that Luna looked back to her sister.
“And how would one go to this place? How would one start this rescue?”
Celestia smiled, but it was a sad thing, touching her mouth but not her eyes. Seeing it, Luna began to understand why she had kept this secret for so long.
“One would simply ask.”
|
RubySpinel
|
1004
| 1 |
Pinkie Pie,Comedy,Random,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
An Interview with Pinkamina
|
Pinkamina is interviewed four years after MLP: FiM ends.
|
complete
| 12 | 2 |
<p>Four years after My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic ends, Pinkamina talks about the show, Applejack's tell-all book, and her new movie "The Last Riders of Canterlot".</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-25T02:49:10+00:00
|
2011-09-25T02:49:10+00:00
| 1,730 |
I adjust my tie one last time in the mirror and flick a piece of lint off of my jacket. My assistant stands in the doorway of my dressing room impatiently – she’s always standing impatiently. I stand up carefully from the vanity mirror and flash her a smile. She rolls her eyes, somehow immune to my charms. Maybe that it what makes her such a good assistant.
I catch myself in the full-length mirror on the way out of the dressing room. I am charming, handsome, and just the slightest bit excited. I love the rush of adrenaline right before I get on stage and the cameras start rolling.
I follow my assistant down the hallway to the set. We brush by a group of very star-struck interns and I wink at them, imagining all of the hyperbolic stories they will tell their families tonight.
I wait behind the curtains for my cue, my assistant mumbling instructions that will already be on the teleprompter. I don’t miss my cues and I don’t flub my lines. She should know this by now.
The on-air light comes on and I strut out onto the stage to roaring applause. I am just the host, the mouthpiece for the writers, the network. But it is still all about me. I stop halfway, beaming to the audience and catch my assistant making impatient shooing motions at me and tapping her watch. “Get on with it! We have a show to do!” I can hear her thinking at me. Silly filly, I am the show.
I sit casually by the table that holds a pitcher of water and two cups. The producers wanted plush-looking chairs, but that would require me to jump onto them, and I don’t do that. I don’t subject my guests to the indignity of leaping into a chair.
The teleprompter has my introduction lines, which are frozen, waiting for the applause to die down. Camera three is active, but I don’t look at it. I look at the audience and turn so it gets my good, nonchalant side.
The applause dies down. “Thank you, thank you.” I say. “Welcome to the The Daily Oat, and I am your host, Brilliant Star.” More applause as I feign slight embarrassment at all the attention.
“And today-” I start, before more applause kicks in. “Now, now. Hold your horses.” I joke, and the audience laughs, but they quiet down. “And today, you’re in for a real treat as we have a very special show planned for you today. We have with us a mare of incredible distinction, a star in both television and film. She has a new movie coming out this summer, “The Last Riders of Canterlot”, please welcome…” I pause to build the suspense, but everypony watching already knows who I’m talking about.
“…Miss Pinkamina Diane Pie!”
The audience goes wild as she appears from the other end of the stage wearing a tastefully revealing grey shrug. She is incredibly beautiful and poised, even when she stops to wave at the audience in very real appreciation.
I stand up and give her a welcoming hug. Her hair smells like strawberries. She sits down gracefully beside the table.
A rogue audience member shouts “Woooo! Pinkie, yeah!” and she smiles genuinely at him and waves. It is no longer all about me.
“So, Miss Pie-”
“Oh, call me Pinkie.”
“Pinkie,” I say, smiling at her. “Thank you so much for joining us today.”
“It’s my pleasure.”
“So, tell us about your new movie.”
“Well, it’s called ‘The Last Riders of Canterlot’ and it’s a retelling of the classic story. There’s an evil shipyard owner who keeps all her workers as slaves, until a group of them rise up against her, using the original story of ‘The Last Riders of Canterlot’ as their rallying point. I play Glitter, Buck’s girlfriend – who is played by Flashworks, who is absolutely amazing, by the way.”
“What was it like working with screen-legend Crystal Treasure?”
“She plays the shipyard owner, Siren’s Waters, in the film, and was wonderful. She was like a big sister to all of us on set, always helping us go over lines and giving us advice. The last day of filming, she gave all of us these flowers – even the crew. And it wasn’t that they were expensive or gaudy or anything, but they all had written notes thanking us personally.”
“So, in the movie, you play a pegasus, what was that like?”
“It’s always awkward when you have to play a different race. Pegasi have different mannerisms, different way of doing things. So I was always having to think: am I playing this like a pegasus, or like an earth pony with wings? And the flying! They had to rig me up in this harness and I just could not get the hang of it. I’m surprised that we ever got good shots. There’s this one scene where I’m supposed to jump off this building and land in front of Creampie, played by Star Dancer. It ended up being about ten seconds of film time, but it took two days of shooting. I kept getting my hair caught in the wires!”
“A lot of people have been asking, and I’m sure you’ve heard: Why didn’t they choose to cast a pegasus in your role?”
“I don’t do the casting, and I was incredibly lucky that they wanted me on the project at all. I was absolutely honored to play Glitter.” She leaned over and sipped out of her glass of water. Of course she avoided the question. She knew as well as I did that it was all politics anyway.
The words “Cut to commercial” scroll up on the teleprompter.
“We have to go to commercial, but we will be right back with more of Miss Pinkie!” The audience cheers and my producer signals that we are off-air.
Pinkie’s makeup crew comes out to touch up her face. A few brave ponies rush down to get hoofprints from the two of us, but security holds them back.
My assistant tells me things I already know until the producer signals that we are back on the air in 30 seconds.
Pinkie shakes off uncharacteristic nervousness and smiles at me. The dazzling starlet and the charming talk show host. What a wonderful, media-friendly romance that would be.
5. 4. 3. 2. 1.
“And we are back with the lovely Miss Pinkamina Diane Pie!” I say, and the audience cheers.
“So Pinkie, let’s talk about ‘My Little Pony’,” the audience cheers wildly and I talk over them. “Can we do that?”
“Of course we can talk about ‘My Little Pony’.” She smiles at me, then the audience. It’s the kind of smile that lights up a room.
I wait for the cheering to die down before continuing.
“It’s been what, three, four years since it ended?”
She thinks for a moment, putting a hoof delicately to her chin. “I think it’s been four years, yes. Wow.”
“So tell us about the cast, do you still keep in touch?”
“I talk to Amethyst, who played Twilight Sparkle, almost every day. She, of course, got into the writing and producing side of television and has worked on ‘The Gryphon Who Said “No”’, and ‘Pony Justice’, and is working on a new show, that you may have heard of, called ‘Return to Everfree’. Um, and I still keep in touch with Rainbow Dash, although she has a very full schedule, as well, modeling for Winter’s Secret **and launching her new clothing line.”
“What about Butterfly Kisses – Fluttershy - and Rarity?”
“I haven’t talked much with either of them since the show ended. Rarity does a lot of charity work, I know. She was married to Spike for a while, although I think the way they played up the relationship in the show might have strained their marriage a little. They would play sweet romantics on set, then have the most vicious fights off set. I’ve heard they’re much happier apart and they are friends now. Butterfly Kisses I think has a couple of kids now.”
“Do you mind if we talk about Applejack’s tell-all book?”
She gives me a look that says “Yes, I mind a lot.”
“Applejack has always been an attention mule, and I don’t care if she hears me say it.”
The audience applauds. They love when beautiful celebrities trash-talk each other.
“Her book is nothing but lies. Berry Punch did not have a drinkin problem, Amethyst and Rarity never had a steamy romance, and the director would not go off on anti-dragon rants. She’s just angry that her career is over and is trying to get 15 more minutes.”
“So you’ve read her book?” I prod her. This was a golden opportunity.
“Yes. I have read her book. And you know what? I kind of feel bad for her. When I showed up on set the first day, I was so excited to work with her. She was on ‘Everypony Stories’ and I **loved that show. She was my idol. The first thing she says to me when I see her is ‘Quit staring and go get me a drink, you useless filly.’ It’s like, her entire life was wrapped up in being a star that she never thought that she had to bother with other people.”
“Let’s move on, and talk about the show itself. Were you prepared for the success?”
“Not at all.” She emphasizes this by spreading her hooves and laughing once. “’My Little Pony’ was my first television show. I’d been in school plays, but I was totally unprepared for not just the work load, but the recognition. I got my hair curled every day for that show and had a fake cutie mark and still I would get recognized on the street. I used to spend my days off holed up in my apartment worrying that, if I went out, someone would recognize me. Most of the fans were super nice, but after Rarity got that stalker, you just worry, you know?”
And we cut to commercial again.
“I’m sorry about the Applejack question.” I say.
“They told me earlier that you were going to ask. At least it’s out of the way.” She says, smiling and trying to mask her discomfort.
And we are back.
“So,” I turn to her in mock seriousness, “you know, I have to ask: what about ‘Cupcakes’?”
She rolls her eyes. She’s been asked a million times before.
“Let me set the record straight once and for all: there is no ‘Cupcakes’ episode. There never was.”
“For those of you who don’t know, ‘Cupcakes’ was supposedly an episode where Pinkie Pie goes crazy and brutally tortures and murders Rainbow Dash.” I clarified.
“People have also said that several crew members killed themselves after that episode, or that we actually murdered one of the stunt ponies. But no. It never happened.”
“How did the rumor come about?”
“Really, I think it started with Amethyst joking with me about a dream she had about me. In the dream I said something crazy like “oh, if we don’t kill Rainbow Dash then we don’t get any cupcakes”. It became kind of an in-joke. The writers got into it, seeing what they could get past Hasbro and the producers. So they’d have Pinkie say something like ‘Oh look a new friend! I’d love to make cupcakes from you!’ and then Twilight would correct her ‘It’s for, Pinkie, not from.’”
The audience laughs at this, and Pinkie joins in. It was effortless and magical the way she slipped back into a character she hasn’t done in years.
“It was a release of frustration, in a way.” She continues. “We were all wanting to do something a little darker and more real with the show after the first two seasons, but Hasbro would not have it. It wasn’t until we did that one episode about Spike’s grandfather that they allowed us to tackle more serious subjects.”
“The show ran for eight seasons, what was it like essentially growing up on set?”
“After a while, you know, you get into the routine of things, so you don’t really notice how ponies change. It wasn’t until Scootaloo came in one morning announcing that she had gotten her cutie mark that it really set in how different we all were from when we started. We were still playing the characters like they’d never aged a day, and here Scootaloo – and the rest of the fillies on the show – were growing up and still pretending that they were little fillies. So, really, it was a unique experience.”
My producer is giving me the signal that we’re running over time. I’m disappointed that she has to leave so soon.
“I am terribly sorry, Miss Pinkie, but we are out of time. It was a pleasure to talk to you.”
“And you as well.” She gives me one of those dazzling smiles.
“Thank you all for joining us and remember to go see Miss Pinkamina’s new movie: The Last Riders of Canterlot, in theaters this Friday.”
I stand up as the audience cheers and motion for Pinkie to do the same. She waves at the crowd. My producer signals that we are done as my assistant rushes out from off stage.
“So, Miss Pinkie, would you care to go for a drink?” I ask.
“Oh, I’m so sorry, Mr. Star. I have a plane to catch. But thank you so much for the offer.” Her makeup artist is handing her a bag that she slips neatly over her head. “I would love to come back and do your show again and take you up on that drink. Next time I’m in town.”
She hurries off stage, another beautiful filly walking out of my life.
But that’s okay, I remind myself. I still have the hordes of adoring fans.
|
XFizzle
|
1005
| 1 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Equestria Hockey League
|
Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
|
complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-24T04:25:29+00:00
|
2011-09-24T04:25:29+00:00
| 5,242 |
Equestria Hockey League – Part I: A New Team
by XFizzle
One cold, winter afternoon, Princess Celestia was sitting on her royal throne bored with no royal duties left to be performed for the rest of the day. Seeing the snow gently falling outside, she devised a plan to create some outdoor winter fun for her subjects in Canterlot. As Princess Celestia looked out upon the palace, she noticed she had a prime piece of property to use for this plan. The royal pond was currently barren and closed off for the winter. Using her magic, Princess Celestia refilled the pond with water and then froze it, leaving a glistening sheet of ice. Soon after, the Canterlot ponies began to visit the palace to skate on the royal pond.
One day in the heart of the winter season, a visiting pony from a land far away brought some curious equipment with him to the royal pond. He brought a bundle of large sticks, two netting apparatus, and a single black rounded stone. The visitor then explained to the Canterlot civilians that a game can be played with the things he brought. He called the game “hockey”, and began demonstrating how to play. It did not take long for the ponies to pick up on the visitor’s game and soon all of Canterlot would come to the royal pond to play in and watch hockey games, including Princess Celestia herself.
As the years went on, more improvements to the game were had, including the emergence of talented ponies that practiced and studied the game most of their lives. Also, some ponies created safety padding and equipment to protect the players from harm. Princess Celestia enjoyed watching the evolution of this sport and wanted to share this honorable game with all of Equestria. She requested that an organized league be formed so that hockey can be played and enjoyed by all ponies far and wide. The league was named the Equestria Hockey League, or EHL, for short. Originally, five teams from five cities participated in the league: the Canterlot Equestrians, the Cloudsdale Red Wings, the Appleloosa Black Apples, the Manehattan Rangers, and the Fillydelphia Flyers. The champion of this league would win the coveted Celestia Cup and each pony would have their names engraved on the trophy for years to come.
“And thus the Equestria Hockey League was born,” said Twilight Sparkle as she closed her book The Origins of the EHL. Twilight used her magic to levitate the book back in its place on the bookshelf. She then looked out the window and saw a sparkling, white winter landscape blanketing Ponyville. While she preferred to stay indoors, she saw many ponies laughing and having fun playing in the snow. There were snowball fights, ponies building snowhorses, and ice skating. Twilight sighed and searched for another book when Spike rushed into the main room.
“Hey Twilight, wanna go play outside?”
“No thanks, Spike. I want to read some more. There’s a few books here I haven’t been able to get to yet.”
“But it’ll be fun! We could throw snowballs at each other and go skiing!”
“I told you I have too many books to read still,” as Twilight magically lifted different books off the shelf and bringing them closer to see what they contained.
“Aww, alright,” Spike said dejectedly. “I’ll go see if any of the others want to play.”
Spike then put on his winter gear and left the treehouse. Twilight found a new book to read and immediately began studying it. Outside, Spike went around town to recruit his friends to play with him. Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, and Fluttershy followed Spike back to the treehouse and they all began having fun in the snow as Twilight kept to her book. As she went to turn to a new chapter, Twilight heard a knock at the door. She went to the door and opened it to find no one there. Suddenly, a big, wet snowball hit her in the face. Spike and Rainbow Dash began laughing uncontrollably as Twilight frustratingly brushed the snow off her face.
“Nice throw, Spike! That was awesome!” exclaimed Rainbow.
“Haha, gotcha, Twilight!” Spike said proudly.
“Come join us, Twilight! We’re having oodles of fun!” Pinkie Pie yelled.
“I say it is very delightful out here in the snow, darling. You can wear those trendy new boots I made you!” said Rarity.
“Sorry, girls, but I have too much reading to do right now,” Twilight said.
“Twilight Sparkle, you’ve been sittin’ in your house readin’ all day. It’s good ta’ get some fresh air and work out yer muscles! Come out and join us,” said Applejack as she tried her best to convince Twilight to play.
“Pinkie Pie is going to teach us how to ice skate better. It would be fun if you come and skate with us…if that’s okay with you,” Fluttershy said softly.
Twilight saw that her friends all had a hopeful look on their face that she would join them. She quickly tried coming up with another excuse, “But you saw me last year during the Winter Wrap Up. I did horribly at skating.”
“That’s okay, Twilight! We all had to learn sometime. Now that we don’t have the Winter Wrap Up to worry about right now, I can teach you better!” said Pinkie.
“I’m sorry, girls. Maybe some other day,” Twilight said with a twinge of guilt.
Defeated in their attempt to coax Twilight out to play, everyone sadly turned away to resume their winter activities. Suddenly, Spike felt a rumble in his stomach. He let out a giant burp which meant a scroll had arrived from Princess Celestia. Spike unfurled the scroll and began to read it aloud:
“To My Most Faithful Student, Twilight Sparkle: Although you have been very dedicated and thorough with your studies thus far, I am afraid you will spend too much time studying and not be able to enjoy the winter season while it is still here. I have not told you this, but my favorite winter activity is to watch the ponies play hockey. I have requested that the Equestria Hockey League grant Ponyville an expansion team. Your assignment is to gather up a team of ponies to play for the Ponyville Golden Leafs. I shall be expecting a report at the end of the season. Although the weather in the winter is not as fair as other seasons, it shall be enjoyed just the same. Enjoy the winter and have fun with your friends. I look forward to seeing you play against the Canterlot Equestrians soon. Good luck to your team.
Your Royal Princess,
Princess Celestia”
“Hockey?!? I can’t play hockey, let alone skate! Ugh!” shouted Twilight.
“All the more reason for you to join us! Don’t worry, Twilight. We’re gonna make you the meanest, leanest, ice skating, hockey playing pony around!” Pinkie said confidently.
“You really think so?”
“Darn tootin’, sugarcube,” Applejack said.
Twilight finally agreed to join her friends for some fun and skating. “Before we go, let me go grab my books about skating and the EHL.”
Everyone yelled out “TWILIGHT!”
“Okay, okay. We’ll go now,” said Twilight with a slight laugh.
---
They all arrived at the frozen Ponyville pond with their skates. Pinkie Pie started skating immediately. Rainbow Dash was next to join her on the ice. She zoomed past Pinkie and started showing off her speed. Applejack and Spike were next on the ice. Applejack had some trouble at first but eventually found her balance. Spike was having fun switching between his skates and his tail to skate on the ice. Rarity finally gathered up the courage to put on a pair of old, worn skates. She then delicately tip-hoofed onto the ice hoping not to fall. Pinkie skated over to help Rarity out and soon Rarity was skating along with everyone.
“Your turn, Twilight! We’re ready to help you out!” Pinkie yelled from the center of the rink.
“Oh, alright,” said Twilight hesitantly.
Twilight put on her skates and slowly stepped out onto the ice. Her legs wobbled and shook as she tried her hardest to keep her balance. Twilight felt she was doing alright until she began to fall. She closed her eyes and braced for impact but she didn’t feel anything at all. Twilight opened her eyes to find herself gliding around the ice. She began to cheer until she looked back to see Pinkie pushing her along.
“Ready to go by yourself?” Pinkie asked.
Twilight instantly began to panic “Oh no no no no no…”
“Go!”
Pinkie thrusted Twilight towards the center of the ice. Twilight frantically moved her legs to keep balance, hoping any combination of movement would keep her upright. Twilight then remembered that she could use her magic to help guide her. Her horn began to glow and she started skating as gracefully as any pony has ever seen. Twilight giggled with confidence as she was finally getting a hang of skating. The next test would be to skate without any magical help, but she knew there would be time for that over the next few days. For now, she felt like she conquered the ice and was perfectly content for the day.
---
After an hour of more skating fun, Twilight and friends went back to the treehouse to rest. It was a good time to start discussing how to go about forming the team.
“So, girls. Anyone know anything about hockey? I read a little about it today, but has anypony actually played it?”
Applejack chimed in. “I haven’t played, but I reckon Big Macintosh has. I think I remember goin’ to a couple of his games back in the day.”
“Anypony else?”
“Um…I have,” said Fluttershy.
Everyone stared at her and Rainbow Dash bursted out laughing. “You played hockey, Fluttershy? That’s a good one!”
“It’s true. When I was young, my parents tried putting in me all sorts of different sports so I could meet new ponies and be less shy. I only played for a few days. I didn’t do too well because I was afraid of getting hit with the puck.”
Twilight spoke up, “Well, it’s not much, but it’s a start. I’ll study more about it tonight and tomorrow we can try to figure out more stuff.”
“Well, we can come up with other things right now,” said Rainbow Dash. “I want to be number 20!”
The other ponies paused for a moment to think which number they would want. Pinkie was the first to hop up.
“Ooh, ooh, I want to be number 33! It’s fun to say! Thirty-three! Thirty-three!” Pinkie said jumping around the room.
“I think I wanna be number 88. It sounds like a strong number,” said Applejack.
“I want to be number 9 because it’s so elegant. I can then be ‘dressed to the nines’ as they say!” Rarity said with a laugh.
“I’d like to be number zero please. Zero is a nice and quiet number,” said Fluttershy.
“I guess I’ll be number 42 then. For some reason I just enjoy that number,” Twilight proclaimed. “Now that we have our numbers, we can have our jerseys made. Rarity, could you make us some jerseys? We’re the Ponyville Golden Leafs. I trust you can make us something great.”
“I’ll get right on it!”
The ponies broke for the evening and went home. Twilight spent the rest of her night learning about hockey and the many intricacies involved. She fell asleep, face down into her hockey book, and began to dream about playing alongside her friends and winning the Celestia Cup.
---
The next day, Twilight used a chalkboard to begin assigning positions to her friends. Spike watched her try to piece together a suitable lineup that played to each of her friends’ strengths. “Now, Spike. The center position is for the pony who has skill and speed. The center pushes the puck up the ice and tries to make the best play. I think Rainbow Dash would be the best for center, don’t you agree?”
“Yeah, sure,” he said with much disinterest.
“Both the left wing and the right wing are primarily for shooting. They also have to race after the puck once it goes into the offensive zone and try to get it and keep it away from the other team. Rarity would make for a good shooter because she is so precise and has great attention to detail. I bet her accuracy is fantastic. Applejack could be on the other wing because she’s strong enough to take the puck away from anypony who tries.”
“So you’re putting an earth pony and a unicorn pony on positions that need wings?” Spike asked with confusion.
“Haha, no, that’s not how it works. That’s just a name. The sides of the hockey rink are called the wings. Now for defense, it looks like it will be Fluttershy and I. Defense takes great patience and knowledge, to know when to anticipate the opponent’s moves and when to attack. I know we’ll be weak at first but maybe our offense will be good enough to where we can screw up a little bit and still win. And finally, that leaves Pinkie Pie to be goalie. She’s got some…uncanny flexibility and agility. Plus she’s pretty soft so the puck won’t hurt her too badly.”
“Sounds great! So…where am I playing?”
Twilight looked around her chalkboard quickly. When she realized that there were no more positions open for Spike, she tried quickly thinking of a new role for him to have. “You can be our equipment manager! Yeah, we’ll need someone who is super organized and able to fix things. It’s a very important job. Hehe.” Twilight nervously let out a laugh, hoping Spike wouldn’t be discouraged by not playing.
“All right! You can count on me, Twilight!” Spike gave Twilight a small salute and then ran off to start finding hockey gear.
Twilight wiped her forehead. “Whew, that was close. I thought for sure he would be upset he wasn’t on the team.”
Twilight agreed to meet her friends at the pond again for more skating practice. Today, Twilight set a goal for herself to skate on her own without any help from magic. Spike stumbled behind, trying to carry all the hockey equipment he found. When they arrived at Ponyville Pond, everypony was already there and skating. Twilight greeted them and Spike handed out the gear so that they could start playing while Twilight practiced her skating. Before practicing, Twilight briefly explained each position and their responsibilities. No pony quite understood what she meant right away, so Twilight just had them start playing.
Immediately, Rainbow Dash was excelling at the sport. She was (figuratively) flying on the ice, scooping the puck up from whoever had it and taking it to the net. Even though Rainbow was playing skillfully, she did not care to pass much. Applejack began to show off her muscle as she was able to take the puck away from Rainbow whenever she was able to get close enough. That was not often, though, as Applejack was too slow on skates to chase anyone. Rarity didn’t go after the puck, but she was skating better. When Rarity got the puck to shoot, she tried slapping the puck on net. Rarity’s shot weakly flew through the air, but she was able to pinpoint perfectly where she wanted it to go. Fluttershy, as expected, was too afraid to go after the puck. She was, however, able to anticipate when the puck was coming at her, to which she promptly moved out of the way for fear of getting hurt. Pinkie Pie was doing a decent job being goalie. She glided across the net quickly and made some incredible moves to keep the puck out of the net but sometimes she was caught out of position and was a little overexcited getting in on the play.
Twilight caught glimpses of her friends playing while she was off on her own skating. She saw that each one of them had the raw ability within them to be great, but they need time and more practice before they can begin competing. As for reaching her goal, Twilight was skating without any magic. She wasn’t fast, but she was happy to be stable and not falling…much. After another day at the rink, Twilight and friends were tired and found themselves back at the treehouse to talk about the team.
“How did everyone do?” Twilight asked.
“It was so much fun! I was like this, and this, and this!” as Pinkie demonstrated every slick save she made, inciting a laugh from her friends.
“It was awesome. I was so fast and no one could stop me!” boasted Rainbow.
“Well that’s good to hear.”
“How was your skating practice, Twilight?” Rarity asked.
“It went pretty well. I didn’t have to use magic! But I haven’t gained any speed yet.”
“Don’t worry ‘bout that, Twi. You’ll get faster in time,” said Applejack.
“Yeah! You’ve only skated for two days. You were doing much better than I did my second day of skating!” Pinkie exclaimed.
Twilight smiled. “Thanks, girls. Hey Rarity, how’s the work coming on our jerseys?”
“I stayed up all night putting the finishing touches on them. I think they’re quite darling!”
Rarity levitated a cardboard box over to her. She opened the box and lifted up a jersey. The jersey was made from clean wool and had a distinct royal blue color. Emblazoned on the front was a leaf made out of golden thread. In bold blue letters on the leaf, “Ponyville Golden Leafs” shimmered in the light. Rarity turned the jersey around to show the ornate stitching of the name and number on the back. The jersey read “RARITY 9” in more golden thread. Everyone looked at the jersey in awe and cheered Rarity for her work.
“That looks amazing, Rarity!” Twilight said with a smile.
“Thank you, thank you. These were so fun to make. I think I might make more of these to sell at the boutique! You know, once we start playing and we gain adoring fans!”
Rarity gave each pony their respective jersey. Instantly, they all had their own jersey on and were playing around. Hearing the commotion, Spike ran into the room.
“Hey guys, what’s going on?”
“Oh, hi Spike. Rarity just gave everyone their jersey!” Twilight answered.
“Neat! Where’s mine?” Spike asked as he dove into the box to find one for himself.
Twilight walked over to Rarity and whispered in her ear.
“Ah, I do believe I have something in there for you, Spike,” said Rarity.
While Spike was inside the box, Rarity used her magic to quickly put together a shirt that said “Equipment Manager” in yellow gems on the front. When Spike got out of the box empty handed, Rarity presented him the shirt. Spike fell in love with it and put it on.
For the rest of the evening, Twilight explained more in-depth what each pony’s position and responsibility was, now that they had played a little bit during the day. Every pony accepted their role happily. Twilight spoke up again.
“According to the book I read, before the season begins, each team hosts training camp. During training camp, everyone practices really hard and they begin to learn certain plays and strategies.”
“Oh, camping? I just detest camping. Being out in the wilderness makes you all dirty and icky,” cried Rarity.
“Oh boy! Camping will be fun! I’ll bring my camp party supplies! There’ll be ghost stories and s’mores and a scavenger hunt!” Pinkie said with great excitement.
“And tons of cute little creatures to play with!” happily squeaked Fluttershy.
Twilight raised her voice “Girls! It’s not that kind of camp. We won’t be going anywhere. We’re just dedicating our whole days to practicing and getting better as a team.”
“Oh, I suppose that will be nice too,” said Fluttershy.
“Well I cain’t wait! I’m ready to put in some hard work, learnin’ some plays and tricks n’ all,” Applejack said with energy.
“Let’s do this!” yelled Rainbow Dash
Twilight then put her hoof in the middle of everyone “Then it’s settled. Next week, it’ll be the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ first training camp!”
Every pony followed suit and put their hoof in. On three, they all yelled “GO TEAM!”
To Be Continued
|
XFizzle
|
1005
| 2 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Equestria Hockey League
|
Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
|
complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-24T04:26:29+00:00
|
2011-09-24T04:26:29+00:00
| 4,303 |
Equestria Hockey League Part II – Training Camp
by XFizzle
The sun rose on a new winter day. A rooster crowing in the distance awoke Twilight Sparkle from her slumber. This day marked the beginning of the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ training camp. Twilight slowly got out of bed and prepared herself for the long day ahead. Spike also gradually came to life and helped Twilight gather up all the items and equipment they needed for camp. With jerseys, sticks, pads, skates, and nets in tow, Twilight and Spike set out for Ponyville Pond.
Upon arriving at the pond, Twilight saw her friends arriving one by one. Rainbow Dash was half asleep, using a cloud to help move her towards the pond while Applejack followed behind slowly. Fluttershy daintily fluttered down the path while Rarity, with sleeping mask still on, used her magic to move herself along. To no one’s surprise, Pinkie Pie hopped past all of them, skipping along as if she had been awake for several hours. Once all the ponies reached the pond, Twilight came up with an idea to get everyone to wake up.
“Thanks for getting here so early, girls. *Yawn* Before we start we need to wake up and get our legs moving. I say we get our skates on and do some laps around the pond. What do you say?”
“Hmm…nah. I don’t need to skate. Just give me a few more minutes,” said Rainbow as she plopped back down onto her cloud.
“Couldn’t you just use your magic to wake us up, dear?” asked Rarity. “It’s bad enough I won’t be getting all my beauty sleep in this morning!”
“No, Rarity, we have to do this the correct way. Plus my magic isn’t quite so good this early in the morning either. Now let’s on our skates and get going!”
“Right…*yawn*…behind ya’, Twi,” snorted Applejack as she unenergetically struggled to get her skates on.
“Yay! This is going to be fun! Who wants to race? Last pony in is a rotten dragon egg!” exclaimed Pinkie excitedly.
“Hey! I take offense to that!” piped up Spike.
“Hehe, sorry Spike. Now come on everypony!” as Pinkie immediately began to skate around the pond.
Never backing down from a challenge, Rainbow Dash sprung up off her cloud, quickly put her skates on, and tried to catch up to Pinkie. Within a minute, all six ponies and Spike were on the ice, moving about and waking up. After the wake up skate was finished, Twilight used her magic to construct boards around the pond to set up the rink. In the meantime, everyone put on their pads and jerseys.
Next, Twilight led everyone in a handful of stretching and conditioning drills that she had picked up on from her studies. Now that the ponies were stretched, loose, and ready to play, Twilight began to teach her teammates some basic plays and strategies.
“Alright, listen up, girls. The first play I am going to teach you is called the “dump and chase” method. It’s when a forward shoots the puck into the corner boards of the offensive zone and chases after it and tries to get it before the defense can get to it. Meanwhile, the other forwards set up their positions in the zone and wait for a pass. Any questions?”
Rainbow raised her hoof. “So we have the puck then we get rid of it? That sounds lame.”
“Well, yes, but if you get the puck before the defense, that gives you a good opportunity to be ready for the next play.”
“Lame!”
Twilight started to get a little annoyed with Rainbow but continued on.
“Anyways, to practice this, Applejack, you’re going to move the puck up the right side and shoot it into the zone. Rainbow, you’re going to chase after it and try to get it before Fluttershy does. Rarity, while those two are doing that, you’re going to stand behind the net and try to get open for the pass along the boards from Rainbow. Fluttershy and I will be the defense and try to stop you guys. Everypony got it?”
“Umm…Twilight…can you be the one who tries to get the puck before Rainbow? I’m afraid she’ll hurt me,” squeaked Fluttershy.
But Twilight didn’t hear her while blowing the whistle to start.
Applejack did as she was told and dumped the puck in. Rainbow swiftly zoomed into the zone after the puck while Rarity and Applejack followed in behind, going to their positions in the zone. Fluttershy hesitantly skated over toward the puck on the board as Rainbow was closing in. Right before Fluttershy reached the puck, Rainbow swooped in nabbed it, causing Fluttershy to spin like a top and fall to the ice in a daze. Rainbow cut across the slot, passing by a wide open Applejack, to shoot on Pinkie. Pinkie tried to stop the shot but the puck went in. Rainbow started celebrating and cheering as her teammates stared at her slightly peeved.
“What? I did what we planned! Applejack shot the puck in, then I went and got it and scored!” said Rainbow defiantly.
“You cain’t do everythin’ by yourself, Rainbow. You gotta pass it too!” said Applejack. “I was wide open n’ everything!”
“Not to mention you basically spun Fluttershy right out of her skates,” chimed in Twilight. As Twilight said this, Fluttershy finally stood up from being on the ice. She took one step and once again found herself spinning out and hitting the ice. Rarity skated over to help her out. Rainbow winced while watching Fluttershy struggle and rolled her eyes. “Fine, I’m sorry.”
They ran through the play again, this time with Rainbow’s cooperation. Twilight took her turn to try to win the puck from Rainbow. Twilight was able to poke at the puck a little but Rainbow passed it out to Rarity along the boards. Rarity circled to the side of the net and was ready to wind up for a shot. She took a long look at Pinkie, frantically searching for a good hole to aim the puck at. As she was about to shoot, Fluttershy floated by and took the puck away. Rarity stomped her hooves in frustration.
“Fluttershy! Did you not see I was about to shoot? I had my aim perfectly placed then you came in and ruined it!”
“Oh, I’m very sorry Rarity. I didn’t know you were going to shoot,” said Fluttershy.
Twilight came over to them. “No, Fluttershy you did the right thing. Rarity, you have to shoot the puck sooner. There’s no time to line up your shot that long. In the game, everything has got to be done quicker.”
“Buuuttt Twiiiiliiiight!!”
“No buts. Do your best to aim quicker next time.”
Rarity gave Twilight a pouty face as everyone went back to start the play over. The puck was shot in and once again, Rainbow went after it. Twilight met Rainbow at the boards and did a better job at poking and prying at the puck. Applejack, sensing that Rainbow was having trouble, skated in to help. Applejack barreled into the corner and knocked Rainbow over to get the puck from Twilight. Rainbow got up quickly, and angrily skated over to Applejack.
“Hey! What’s the big idea?”
“I saw you were havin’ some trouble in the corner. So I came in ta’ help.”
“Well you didn’t have to knock me over!”
“Well, maybe if you were doin’ your job I wouldn’t a have to come in to save your flank!”
Rainbow and Applejack went nose to nose until Twilight skated in between them to break it up.
“Girls! Cool it! We’re supposed to be teammates and having fun learning about hockey. Not getting in each other’s faces. Now let’s try it again from the top.” Applejack and Rainbow gave each other a sneer before going back to their starting positions.
They ran the play again. Rainbow got the puck on the boards in the corner as Twilight rushed over. This time, Twilight got the best of Rainbow and stole the puck. Twilight broke towards the other end of the ice with the puck on her stick. She was able to glide past Applejack and was off to a breakaway. Twilight saw the empty net in sight and began to feel giddy about her opportunity. Suddenly, Twilight saw a pink blur beside her.
“Hey Twlight! Whatcha doin’?”
“Pinkie?!”
“It looks like you’re on a breakaway! Isn’t it exciting? Don’t forget to shoot and score!”
“Huh?”
Twilight looked up and saw that she had already flew past the net and was now on a collision course with the boards. She used her magic to quickly turn the boards into cushions and plowed into them. Pinkie giggled and hopped all the way back down the ice back into her net. Twilight got up and skated to the other end.
“Pinkie!! You’re supposed to be the goalie! You’re not allowed to get out of your net! I almost got crushed!”
“Hehe, sorry Twilight. It’s just I was getting bored and wanted to join in on the fun!”
Twilight groaned and skated to center ice. The rest of the team followed suit. Twilight told her teammates that for the next half hour that they will just play a simple open ice scrimmage.
The puck dropped and each pony did their best to remember what they’ve learned while also trying out their own play styles. Applejack decided that she wanted to work on her checking. Rainbow collected the puck behind her own net and started sprinting down the center of the ice. Off on the right wing, Applejack anticipated Rainbow’s strides and began to charge to the center. As Rainbow drew closer, Applejack lined up her check. Rainbow took one stride past the center line when WHAM! Applejack laid out Rainbow with a devastating hip check that knocked off most of Rainbow’s padding. Rainbow took a while to get up while Applejack and the others gathered around her. Everyone showed concern for Rainbow except Applejack for she knew Rainbow would end up okay. Rainbow got to her feet, and with flames in her eyes, made a beeline straight for Applejack. The two ponies began to scuffle, and rolling around on the ice, wrestling and pulling on each other’s manes with their skates. Twilight and Rarity tried to break up the fight but ended up getting knocked around themselves. Fluttershy started to become upset and frightened. She tried raising her voice to get them all to stop.
“Girls…please stop fighting….this isn’t what teamwork is about.”
But Applejack and Rainbow ignored her and kept on with their tussle.
“Please…put an end to this.”
Ignored again, Fluttershy reached deep into her tiny well of rage and took in a deep breath.
“GIRLS!! STOP THIS FIGHTING RIGHT NOW!”
Applejack and Rainbow stopped immediately with eyes wide open and mouths agape. They quickly got up, looking at Fluttershy as if they just saw a ghost.
“Oh, I’m sorry I had to raise my voice like that, but I had no choice,” said Fluttershy in her normal, soft tone. “You were fighting and not being good teammates, and most importantly not being good friends.”
Applejack and Rainbow looked down at their hooves in shame.
“Ah’m sorry, Rainbow. I didn’t mean to hit ya’ so hard.”
“I forgive you. And I’m sorry I haven’t been a team player and passing the puck.”
“Apology accepted, sugarcube.”
As the ponies settled down and took a break on the ice, Spike came running up to them.
“Guys! I just received a letter! Check it out!”
Twilight opened the scroll and began to read it aloud:
“Dear Ponyville Golden Leafs,
I hope that your training camp is going well. I also hope that you are enjoying your time playing together and learning the great game of hockey while also learning about teamwork and being team players. May the rest of your training be fruitful and I anticipate your first game.
Your Royal Highness,
Princess Celestia”
Twilight tossed the letter aside and began speaking to her team.
“Why are we fighting each other like this? The Princess is expecting us to be learning about the power of teamwork and here we are acting like a bunch of stubborn mules. This isn’t what being on a team is all about. We’re supposed to help each other, whether its passing the puck more, or covering for a teammate when they are caught out of position. We may be hockey players, but first and foremost, we’re friends. This is not how friends behave. Let’s take a lunch break and then get back on the ice to have some fun. I know we have the ability to become a really great team. I have confidence in each and every one of you ponies. The Princess would not have requested a team be made just for us if she didn’t believe in us. Now let’s practice like a real team.”
Determined and more confident, each pony nodded in agreement. Twilight and company skated off the ice to enjoy a brief lunch break.
---
Twenty minutes later, the Ponyville Golden Leafs took the ice to resume their training camp. They started a new series of offense versus defense scrimmaging. The puck dropped and off they went again. The puck bounced back and forth between both sides for while, staying even. There came an instance where Fluttershy was caught too far up on the play and it allowed Applejack and Rainbow Dash a 2-on-1 opportunity with only Twilight between them. Rainbow passed the puck as AJ crossed the blue line. As Twilight drifted toward her, Applejack slapped the puck back to Rainbow who trailed a little bit behind. Twilight quickly twisted over to go after Rainbow. Sensing Twilight was closing in and the angle to the net was sharpening, Rainbow snapped the puck back to AJ who was now off to Pinkie’s side, wide open. AJ received the pass and redirected it into the wide open net before Pinkie dove across to try to stop it. Applejack and Rainbow ran into each other behind the net and hugged to celebrate the goal.
“That was awesome!” shouted Rainbow.
“Darn tootin’ it was! Great pass, Rainbow!” Applejack replied.
“Nice finish at the end!”
“Aww, shucks. Ain’t nothin’.”
Fluttershy and Twilight were glad to see Applejack and Rainbow’s teamwork on that play, but did not want to allow another goal on defense. They took the offensive and skated down the ice with the puck. Rainbow caught up to them and swiped the puck away from Fluttershy with little effort. Twilight sprinted back to prevent a breakaway for Rainbow. Rarity skated hard to be up with Rainbow on the play. Twilight nudged Rainbow a bit but Rainbow held steady. Rainbow quickly looked over to see an open Rarity waiting near the faceoff circle. Rainbow shuffled the pass toward Rarity. As she saw the puck coming towards her, Rarity took a glance at the net and picked the top right corner. The puck landed on her stick and in one fluid motion, Rarity flicked the puck straight into the corner she picked, beating Pinkie and scoring a goal. Rarity leaped up with great joy and laughed as Applejack and Rainbow skated over to her to celebrate. A loud cheer also erupted from the bench where Spike was jumping and hollering for Rarity’s goal. Rarity gave Spike a wink which made him melt.
The play was back on and once again, the offense was clicking on all cylinders. Applejack and Rainbow had another 2-on-1 opportunity. It was just Twilight back on defense again as Fluttershy was knocked around and dazed near center ice. Rainbow and AJ went to execute the play that scored them their first goal. Twilight, learning from the first time, stayed in the middle between the two forwards. Rainbow passed off to Applejack and sprinted toward the net. Applejack went to pass it back to the blazing Rainbow when Twilight stepped up into the passing lane and intercepted the puck. Twilight shoved the puck up to Fluttershy who was now back on her hooves and Fluttershy took it down to the empty net to score for the defense. Twilight and Fluttershy met at center ice to cheer for their goal.
Play resumed and Rarity had the puck. Fluttershy and Twilight stayed close to Applejack and Rainbow Dash respectively, leaving Rarity to take the puck in herself. Rarity came in closer to Pinkie and let off a sailing shot. Pinkie stared at the puck quickly coming at her. Out of pure reaction, Pinkie raised her glove hoof to snatch the puck out of the air. Pinkie began hopping around and dancing that she made the brilliant save. Twilight and Fluttershy danced with her a bit before Rarity and Applejack joined in.
Pinkie gave the puck up to Twilight who skated it down towards the other end. Applejack caught Twilight and muscled her off the puck and took it back to her side of the ice. Applejack gave the puck up to Rainbow who came in towards the net. Fluttershy was starting to get nervous, but remembered Twlight’s speech before lunch about having the ability within her. Rainbow wound up for a shot and let it go. Fluttershy closed her eyes and threw herself in front of Rainbow’s shot. The puck struck Fluttershy in the wing and bounced off into the corner. Everyone let out a cheer for Fluttershy and rushed to help her up. Fluttershy slowly got to her hooves and gave them a big smile. Rainbow gave her a high five while everypony shared a few laughs.
---
The sun began to go down and the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ training camp came to a close. Everypony ended up at Twilight’s house, resting and icing their hooves and wings. They were talking and having fun, excited for the many games of hockey that were in front of them.
“Today was so much fun! I can’t wait to play some more! And I can’t wait for the after parties after each game too!” Pinkie said excitedly.
“Yeah, we were really good at the end there. Passin’ and shootin’ like a real team,” said Applejack.
“We were great! Applejack and I are going to be the terrible twosome, the dangerous duo! Back and forth! We shoot, we score!” Rainbow said as she flew around the room, acting out a two-on-one play.
Rarity glanced at Rainbow and spoke up. “Ahem!”
“Oh yeah, and you too Rarity. Heh heh,” said Rainbow sheepishly.
“Well I was very pleased with my accuracy today. I’ll able to score from anywhere and I’ll look ravishing while doing so,” Rarity smugly replied.
“I stopped the puck! Once. It hurt, but I did it!” Fluttershy said.
“Yeah, that was great! See? You can do it when you put your mind to it, Fluttershy,” Twilight said smiling.
Rainbow Dash interrupted, “And that was an awesome save you made, Pinkie Pie! I’ve never seen you move so quick.”
“I know! The puck was coming in so fast, it was like ‘rawwwrr!’ then I stared back at it like ‘grrrrr!’ and I snatched it!”
Spike suddenly bustled into the room with his stomach rumbling. “I think I’ve got another letter coming.”
He let out a fiery burp and a scroll popped out. Twilight took the scroll.
“From the Offices of the Equestria Hockey League:
Dear Ponyville Golden Leafs,
Enclosed in this scroll is your season schedule. Please be prepared to participate and good luck in the upcoming season.
Best regards,
Gary Bettpony
EHL Commissioner”
Twilight then saw another scroll and opened it and enlarged it for her friends to see.
“Week One: Ponyville Golden Leafs @ Manehattan Rangers
Ponyville Golden Leafs vs. Cloudsdale Red Wings
Week Two: Ponyville Golden Leafs @ Appleloosa Black Apples
Ponyville Golden Leafs vs. Fillydelphia Flyers
Week Three: Ponyville Golden Leafs vs. Canterlot Equestrians
Ponyville Golden Leafs @ Fillydelphia Flyers
Week Four: Ponyville Golden Leafs @ Cloudsdale Red Wings
Ponyville Golden Leafs vs. Appleloosa Black Apples
Week Five: Ponyville Golden Leafs vs. Manehattan Rangers
Ponyville Golden Leafs @ Canterlot Equestrians”
All seven in the room looked at the last line. Their final game of the season would be in Canterlot against the Equestrians. Twilight grinned as she figured the Princess had something to do with that scheduling.
The Ponyville Golden Leafs enjoyed their training camp and felt confident they had learned enough to have a fighting chance to win. They knew that as long as they used the power of teamwork and had fun, no team could get in their way. They were about to begin their journey toward the Celestia Cup and becoming Equestria Hockey League Champions.
To Be Continued
|
XFizzle
|
1005
| 3 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Equestria Hockey League
|
Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
|
complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-24T04:28:51+00:00
|
2011-09-24T04:28:51+00:00
| 3,796 |
Equestria Hockey League Part III – Inaugural Debut
by XFizzle
Giant buildings shadowing every inch of the ground. Crowded streets teeming with rushing carts and carriages. Delicious smells of various shops filling the daytime air. This was Manehattan, the site of the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ first EHL game that evening. Twilight Sparkle and her team of rag-tag ponies all looked up, down, and around, admiring their urban surrounding with great wonder. Of the ponies, Rarity was the one most excited by the atmosphere, squealing and gushing over every high-class fashion boutique they passed. Pinkie Pie hopped with an extra spring in her step towards the many bakeries and eateries down the main street. Spike rode along as Twilight Sparkle’s brain rushed with flowing questions and curiosity as she encountered things she had never seen before: traffic posts, street performers, and giant billboards. Rainbow Dash found herself feeling comfortable and at peace among the hustle and bustle of the streets around her. Fluttershy quietly stuck close to her friends, not too amused by the overwhelming activity; that was until they later arrived at Central Park, home to over thousands of nature’s creatures. Finally, Applejack trotted along with the group slowly, feeling a twinge of nervousness towards the city life currently surrounding her. The Ponyville Golden Leafs explored Manehattan and saw its many sights as the time drew closer to their first game.
---
Twilight and friends walked a few blocks towards the arena. Turning the corner, the ponies stopped dead in their tracks. Ominously towering before them was the famed Maredison Square Garden, showered in bright spotlights held by hovering pegasi while lines of ponies on the ground filed inside. A tidal wave of anxiousness and trepidation washed over the Golden Leafs as they stared down their center stage for the evening. Twilight shook her head to break her stare and led her friends toward the team entrance.
Once inside, the Golden Leafs began to feel their nervousness creeping ever closer as they trotted through the many twists and turns of the hallway leading toward their locker room. With the locker room entrance in sight, Twilight suddenly heard a familiar voice cackling down another hallway. Intrigued, Twilight and company followed the voice until they arrived at a small lobby. There, loosening up and kicking a ball around the corridor were the Manehattan Rangers. From left to right, the Golden Leafs locked eyes with their opponents: Lyra, Octavia, Vinyl Scratch, Sapphire Shores, and the owner of the voice they had heard, The Great and Powerful Trixie.
The Rangers abruptly stopped their ritual when they noticed the Golden Leafs entering the room. One by one, an arrogant smirk emerged on the Rangers’ faces. With a playful chuckle, Trixie sauntered toward Twilight.
“Well, well, well. Look who we have here, Rangers. It appears that the intermission entertainment has arrived,” Trixie said smugly. Each Ranger let out a sinister laugh as Trixie continued.
“I didn’t know the EHL gave out teams to just everypony. What do you losers want?”
Rainbow Dash quickly flew up to Trixie and growled in her face. Twilight restrained her with magic. Rainbow struggled to break free from Twilight’s hold. “Let me go! Let me at her!” But Twilight kept her bound tight. She approached Trixie with a strong step.
“We’re here to play hockey and to kick your self-righteous flanks,” said Twilight, nostrils slightly flared.
“I’d like to see you try!” hissed Trixie back.
It was Rarity’s turn to step towards Trixie. “Oh, we will take you on! You and all your prissy little teammates!”
During the tense interaction, Pinkie Pie slowly counted all the ponies in the room. She narrowed her eyes as she realized there were only five Rangers present.
“Hey, where’s your sixth player?” interrupted Pinkie.
Trixie pointed toward the Rangers locker room. “Our goalie is currently putting her equipment on. She’s the newest addition to our great and powerful team. As if you’re going to score any goals on her.”
Applejack let out a snort and faced her teammates. “Let’s go girls before we let Trixie and her team get into our heads. We got preparations n’ things to do.”
While they turned to leave, the Rangers’ goalie entered the corridor. A sweet, young voice cut through the chilly air.
“RARITY??”
Rarity quickly turned around and before her stood her filly sister, Sweetie Belle. Sweetie Belle’s eyes illuminated as she was overjoyed to see her sister. Rarity’s jaw dropped in shock.
“S…S…Sweetie Belle! Wh…what are you doing here? And why do you have that ridiculous goalie gear on?”
Sweetie Belle leaped toward Rarity. “Didn’t mom and dad tell you? I got drafted by the Manehattan Rangers! I’m gonna try to get my cutie mark by being a goalie!”
Rarity, still in shock, tried to gather her wits and gave Sweetie Belle an awkward hug. “Aren’t you a little too young to be playing in this league? It’s going to be dangerous out there. You’re going to get hurt!”
Trixie stepped in between the sisters. “Young Sweetie Belle here has been learning about how to be an excellent goaltender. She’s quick and agile enough to make saves for us. But then again, she shouldn’t have too much of a problem tonight considering you losers are all weak!”
Sweetie Belle snuggled up next to her sister. “See you on the ice, Rarity!” Sweetie Belle happily scampered off toward the Rangers locker room along with the rest of her team. Rarity stood perfectly stiff, still piecing together the past few minutes in her mind. Twilight put a leg around Rarity and directed her and the rest of the Golden Leafs toward their locker room.
Inside their locker room, Spike was putting the finishing touches on their locker stalls. Hanging from each hook was the team’s away jerseys, an immaculate white sweater with the golden thread of the Golden Leafs’ logo shining in the light. Slightly annoyed from their encounter with the Rangers, the Golden Leafs marched to their respective stalls and put their equipment on. Rarity was still talking to herself, greatly concerned for her sister’s involvement in the game. Piece by piece, the Golden Leafs resembled true hockey players: pads, shorts, socks, jerseys, skates, then helmets. With the growing murmur of the crowd echoing through the hallway, the smell of the many concession foods permeating the air, and the chill of the ice seeping into the room, Twilight Sparkle stood tall in front of her team.
“Listen up, girls. Tonight, we take our first real step out on that ice. I know that nerves are high right now and there’s butterflies in our stomachs.” Fluttershy let out a gasp and reached for her stomach in panic. Rainbow Dash laughed at Fluttershy but Twilight yelled out.
“Focus! Now, let’s think back to our training camp. Remember when we started playing together as a team and had fun? Let’s repeat that tonight. Let’s execute on what we worked on and most importantly, let’s enjoy ourselves out there. Stage fright can easily be worked through. Let’s make small, clean passes to get our confidence up and then do what we do best. Now everypony put a skate in.”
Twilight put her skate-covered hoof in the middle of her friends. Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Spike followed. Twilight pushed the pile of skates in front of her toward the floor. “Team on three. Ready? One…two…three…”
“TEAM!” each pony and Spike shouted as they raised their skates toward the sky.
---
Focused and ready to go with hockey sticks in mouth, the Ponyville Golden Leafs stepped out into the hallway proudly. They lined up in order by position at the door that led out onto the ice. They could hear the crowd now loudly rumbling, awaiting the arrival of the two teams. Random shouts and horns rang out through the rafters. Twilight looked up at the arena roof to see majestic blue banners of former Rangers championship glory hanging from a beam, floating calmly high above the rink. Rainbow Dash was feeding off the energy of the crowd, wings extended and shaking. Applejack and Rarity stood with stoic expressions, patiently waiting to get on the ice. Fluttershy was slightly trembling, occasionally dropping her stick out of nervousness. Pinkie Pie was bouncing about, practicing save moves and pressing her face against the glass to look at the whole scene. Suddenly, all the lights went out in the arena. Spotlights flashed open and began circling around the ice. The crowd let out a roar when a deep voice boomed from a megaphone.
“Fillies and gentlecolts, welcome to Maredison Square Garden! Where tonight, the Ponyville Golden Leafs take on YOURRR MANEHATTAAAANNN RAAAANGERRRRSSSS!!”
Another roar exploded from the arena as fog slowly rolled in over the ice surface.
“First, a warm Manehattan welcome for the visiting Ponyville Golden Leafs.”
A chorus of booing and hissing was directed toward the spotlight shining on the open door where Twilight and her friends stood. Each pony took a big gulp as they anxiously awaited their introduction.
“Starting at center, number 20, Rainbow Dash.”
Rainbow Dash skated out toward center ice. She started skating in circles fast enough to start a rainbow cyclone. The Rangers fans let their displeasure known and kept booing Rainbow Dash who then flew around angrily shaking her skates at the crowd.
“At left wing, number 9, Rarity.”
Rarity gracefully skated out onto the ice and did a pirouette to which she was greeted with jeers. Rarity was saddened by the throng of boos thrown at her and sulked toward Rainbow.
“At right wing, number 88, Applejack.”
Applejack swiftly skated out. She did a hard lap around the rink and ended up next to her teammates.
“The defense, number 42, Twilight Sparkle.”
Twilight gently skated out. She had an uneasy smile on her face as she skated toward the others.
“Also on defense, number 0, Fluttershy.”
The spotlight returned to the opened door. There was a long pause and still no sign of Fluttershy stepping out onto the ice. Ponies in the crowd turned toward each other and shrugged. As soon as the spotlight left the doorway, Fluttershy quickly stepped out and braced herself up against the boards. Inching around the boards, Fluttershy wanted to make a break for her friends but the spotlight caught her. Fluttershy sprung up into the air in fright when the light shined upon her and she bolted toward Twilight. Twilight had to catch her which incited a large laugh from the audience.
“And starting in goal, number 33, Pinkie Pie.”
Pinkie Pie hopped onto the ice, in full goalie garb, and proceeded to skate backwards toward the rest of the team. When she arrived, Pinkie faced the wrong direction until Rainbow had to tap her on the helmet. Pinkie spun around the right way and let out a giggle.
“And now the starting lineup for YOUR MANEHATTAAANNN RAAAANGERRRSSS! Starting at center, number 15, OCTAAAAVIAAA!”
Octavia skated out, holding her front skates together and shaking them in self-celebration as she was showered with cheers. She lined up across from Rainbow Dash and arrogantly blew her a kiss. Rainbow shot back a mean look with a growl.
“At left wing, number 10, LYRAAAA!!”
Lyra was next to emerge out onto the ice. She spun in circles all the way to her spot in the line. When she stopped, she was directly facing Applejack to whom she gave a little wave. Applejack rolled her eyes unimpressed.
“At right wing, number 66, VIIINYLLL SCRAAATCH!“
Scratch made her way out to the ice and put one skate up to her ear and the other out in front as if she was spinning a record on the turntable much to the delight of the crowd. She lined up across from Rarity and lowered her glasses to give Rarity a wink.
“Starting on defense, number 5, SAPPHIIIIREEE SHOOOOREEESSS!!"
Sapphire had a microphone hooked up around her ear and began to sing one of her hit songs as she skated over toward her team. The crowd ate it up and hollered for her. Sapphire ended up across from Fluttershy and struck a pose. Fluttershy couldn’t do anything but let out a squeak back.
“The other defensepony, your captain, number 4, THE GREAT AND POWERFULLLLL TRIIIIIXIIIIIEEEE!!”
As soon as the announcer finished, a plume of smoke puffed out at center ice. Out of nowhere, fireworks exploded around the arena. When the smoke settled, there stood Trixie, raising her front legs and playing to the crowd. They responded back with an even louder eruption of cheers.
“Finally, starting in goal, making her Manehattan Rangers debut, number 30, SWEEEETIEEE BELLEEEE!!”
Sweetie Belle skated out with a giant happy-go-lucky smile on her face beaming through the facemask. She made her way over to her teammates and gave Rarity a big wave. A concerned visage flushed Rarity’s face as she gave a tiny wave back to her sister.
Now that introductions were done, the noise in the arena settled down and the lights came back up. Each team skated off toward their ends of the rink, doing small laps and stretching out. Twilight motioned to her teammates to meet her at the net. The Golden Leafs converged onto the crease around Pinkie. Twilight gave a nod to each pony.
“Alright girls. Remember what I talked about in the locker room. We ready to do this?”
Pinkie pulled her mask down over her face. “Yes sir, Twilight, sir. Grrrr!”
Rainbow Dash gave a small salute with one of her skates. Applejack was next to go around to each teammate and give them a slight headbutt. Rarity, still a bit nerved, could only produce a tiny grin. Slightly afraid, Fluttershy looked down at her skates and only looked up when Twilight tapped her on the helmet.
On the other end, Trixie was giving her squad a talk. Eyes affixed, each Ranger paid great attention to their captain. When finished, Trixie lifted her head to raise her stick in the air. The rest followed suit and together they slammed their sticks on the ice.
Each team drifted toward center ice, where the head referee stood with puck in mouth. Ponyville and Manehattan got into face-off position, ready to take each other on.
The referee raised his skate toward each goalie, asking if they were ready. Pinkie and Sweetie Belle both raised their goalie stick back. With one nod, the referee released the puck.
Game on.
---
The Rangers dominated play early on, placing pressure on the Golden Leafs’ defense and peppering Pinkie with shots from all angles. Pinkie was up to task and made every save so far. Ponyville was able to break Manehattan’s stride a few times, but quickly found themselves back in their own zone. After a deflection off into the corner, Octavia chased after the puck. Applejack quickly closed in and pushed Octavia to the boards, trying to push the puck away. Octavia swept the puck along to boards towards the blue line where Sapphire collected the pass. Applejack turned toward Sapphire and charged hard. Sapphire saw Lyra opened and pass the puck off. Applejack still zeroed in on Sapphire and delivered a brutal check. Immediately the referee lifted his skate with whistle ready. Rainbow glided around Lyra to take the puck away but the whistle tweeted loudly.
The referee approached Applejack. “88, you’re going to the box. Interference.”
“Aww shoot,” said Applejack as she made her way toward the penalty box.
Before the play started back up, Twilight rallied her teammates together.
“Okay, I read that on the penalty kill, the best strategy is to just shoot the puck all the way to the other end so the other team has to waste time retrieving it.”
Rainbow jumped in, “Why don’t we try to score?”
“There’s no time for arguing, just do it!” yelled Twilight shaking her head.
Play resumed and two minutes later, the Golden Leafs killed their first penalty by doing what Twilight had told them.
With Applejack back on, Ponyville maintained control of the puck. Rainbow led the play most of the time, gliding in and letting off shots. Since Rainbow didn’t take time to aim high, each shot was low enough for Sweetie Belle to block it. Each time Rainbow took the puck in and shot, Rarity and Applejack grew more annoyed as their teammate didn’t care to pass to them.
Manehattan began to recognize Rainbow’s one-pony efforts and begun to double team her. When Rainbow would receive the puck, two Rangers swarmed to her to steal the puck away. During one of these double teams, Rainbow desperately tried passing the puck off but it was stolen by Vinyl Scratch. Scratch headed down toward the Ponyville zone. Applejack skated up to her and stuck her stick out. Scratch’s front skate caught Applejack’s stick and she hit the ice like a ton of bricks. The referee quickly gathered up his whistle and blew it sharply. “Number 88, two minutes, tripping!”
Applejack, angry at herself for committing another penalty, returned to the penalty box. She whipped her stick at the bench which caught the attention of the ponies sitting around the penalty box, prompting them to taunt and tease her.
Twilight nodded to her penalty killing unit to repeat their strategy. Puck dropped and Rainbow won the faceoff back to Fluttershy. Fluttershy wound up to fire the puck down the ice but she was too weak. Trixie intercepted the puck at the blue line and passed to Scratch who had circled near the faceoff circle. Twilight stepped toward her and was able to get the puck away but Scratch won it back. Scratch caught Lyra sprinting toward the net on the other wing out of the corner of her eye. With a swift flick, the puck flew across the front of the net. Lyra let the puck rest on her stick blade for only a second before she pounded it into the net. Instantly the goal horn cried throughout the arena and the goal light flickered furiously as the Rangers mobbed Lyra in the corner. The crowd erupted into cheers as the Golden Leafs looked down in disappointment.
“GOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLLLLL!! 1-0 MANEHATTAAAANNN!! Her first of the season, number 10, LYRAAA!! Assisted by number 66, Vinyl Scratch. Lyra from Vinyl Scratch at 6:10 in the first period.”
Rainbow slammed her stick on the ice in frustration as Applejack sheepishly exited the penalty box. Both teams met at center ice for the faceoff. Play was on again and Manehattan skated with confidence having struck first blood. A few back-and-forth bursts later, Rainbow ended up with the puck down the middle. Trixie and Sapphire closed in on Rainbow who was now in the Ranger zone, heading toward their net. Rarity followed behind and tapped her stick on the ice to signal she was open. But it was too late as Trixie stole the puck from Rainbow and pushed it up to Octavia who was waiting at center ice. Octavia just had Fluttershy left in her way. Octavia went directly at Fluttershy to which Fluttershy froze up petrified. Octavia glided around Fluttershy and ripped a shot toward Pinkie. Pinkie jumped to catch it but misjudged the puck’s height. The net shook as it absorbed the puck’s force. Once again the horn roared out and the crowd leapt to their hooves.
“GOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLLL!! 2-0 MANEHATTAAAANNN!! Her first of the season, number 15, OCTAAAVIAAA!! Assisted by number 4, The Great and Powerful Trixie. Octavia from The Great and Powerful Trixie at 8:45 in the first period.”
Fluttershy broke out of her frozen state to her teammates looking at her concerned, except Rainbow who only showed a look of frustration. Fluttershy looked away from Rainbow who gave her a sneer. Applejack clunked Rainbow on the helmet to get her to calm down.
There was only 1:15 left in the period when Manehattan scored their second goal as EHL periods only go for ten minutes. Play resumed but neither team had a significant scoring chance. As the clock ticked down to zero, the crowd’s cheering grew louder in support of their Rangers. The arena horn blew to signal the end of the 1st period. The Rangers met at Sweetie Belle and shared helmet taps with each other while the Golden Leafs sadly skated off the ice and into their locker room.
---
The locker room was quiet as a library as each player kept to herself. Spike went to each pony to blow fire on their skates for sharpening. No longer being able to keep quiet, Pinkie Pie hopped up and put a smile on.
“Come on everypony! It’s not so bad. At least we’re playing hockey together as friends!”
Everyone lifted their head to look at Pinkie. Pinkie paused to think and came up with an idea.
“I know what will get our spirits back, a song!”
Rainbow let out an audible groan as Twilight sat up. “I don’t think a song is…”
“When I was a little filly and the sun was going dooooooown,
Playing hockey was so fun, having to leave made me froooown.”
Applejack interrupted, “Sorry Pinkie, but a song isn’t soundin’ so good right now. Besides I think we already heard that one.”
Pinkie bounced around and made funny faces at each one of her teammates, determined to get her friends to laugh and lighten up. No pony seemed to crack which left Pinkie a little disappointed. Suddenly, Twilight’s face twitched and out came a giggle. She had finally cracked. Applejack then chuckled a bit while Twilight’s giggle broke out into full scale laughter. Rarity and Fluttershy’s faces formed a smile and soon they joined in on the laughter. Rainbow still sat at her stall with a frown and legs folded. Her teammates all turned to her in their laughing fit and wanted her to join in. Rainbow looked at each one of them and eventually cracked a smile, but it quickly turned back into a frown. Rainbow flew up and put her helmet back on.
“Let’s get back out there. We need to score.”
Her teammates trailed behind, still laughing and feeling ten times more relaxed. Both teams returned to the ice for the start of the 2nd period.
---
After a brief skate, the teams lined up for the puck drop. The game resumed and Ponyville took control early. The Golden Leafs were passing quicker and crisper and finally had their legs under them thanks to Pinkie’s intermission laughing session. Rarity, Rainbow, and Applejack each recorded a shot but were stopped by Sweetie Belle. The puck wound up along the side boards where Trixie and Twilight met to battle for it. They both gave each other a shove as the puck flopped about their skates. Twilight touched the puck but felt a strange pulse repelling her back. Confused by the pulse, Twilight let her guard down and was tossed about. Trixie skated on with the puck quickly. Twilight looked at Trixie and noticed something peculiar. Trixie’s horn had been glowing and had a tiny aura emanating from it.
“She’s using magic! That’s illegal!” Twilight cried to the referee. The referee shrugged and skated on to catch up with the developing play.
Trixie brought the puck into the Ponyville zone and slapped it around the boards. Twilight made it back on defense and received a pass from Applejack who had stolen it. Trixie was closest to Twilight and started veering towards her. With a faint glow on her horn, Trixie lifter her head which made Twilight trip as if she was lassoed. The referee caught Trixie’s little cheat and blew the whistle. “Manehattan, number 4. Two minutes for tripping, and another two minutes for magic use.”
Trixie got in the referee’s face. “I wasn’t using magic! You can’t prove it!” The referee didn’t have any of it and directed her toward the penalty box. Trixie sat down on the bench in a huff.
It was time for Ponyville’s first power play. During training camp, Twilight taught her friends the box method where each skater sets up on a different part of the zone and passes back and forth until a shooting opportunity opens. The puck dropped and Ponyville gained control right away. Rarity and Applejack stood on each side of the net near the boards while Twilight and Fluttershy stood stationed along the blue line. Rainbow was the rover who tried keeping the puck alive and finding a teammate to pass to. The Golden Leafs got a few shots off but Sweetie Belle jumped and pounced on each one. The Rangers cleared the puck down the ice every chance they had. With the first two minutes of Trixie’s penalty over, Rainbow re-grouped behind Pinkie and brought the puck up. She passed it to Applejack who was waiting on the right wing. Applejack brought the puck in and drew both Lyra and Sapphire towards her. Twilight, sensing that the Rangers defense was bunching up on Applejack, started sprinting to her spot on the blue line. Twilight tapped her stick on the ice which Applejack heard and quickly passed back. Twilight reared her head back for the shot as the puck trickled toward her. In a strong swing, Twilight shot on net. The puck sailed high toward the right corner. Sweetie Belle jumped but was still too short for the save. The puck pounded the back of the net and rattled around behind the beaten Rangers goalie. A goal light illuminated above the net and Twilight jumped in joy.
“Ponyville goal, her first of the season, scored by number 42, Twilight Sparkle. Assisted by number 88, Applejack, and number 20, Rainbow Dash. Twilight Sparkle from Applejack and Rainbow Dash at 5:33 in the second period.”
The Golden Leafs smothered Twilight and celebrated their first goal as a team. Twilight received a round of helmet bumps as Trixie skated out from the penalty box hissing at her. Twilight winked at Trixie which made Trixie more infuriated.
Play resumed and Ponyville was back on the attack. Feeling more confident from their first goal, the Golden Leafs sent a barrage of pucks toward Sweetie Belle. Although her teammates were determined, Rarity became concerned about their shot assault on her sister. At one point, Rainbow passed the puck to Rarity who had an open shot. Rarity closed her eyes in apprehension and shot toward the net. The puck flew up and over the boards, way off target. Rainbow skated over to Rarity.
“What what that all about?” asked Rainbow sternly.
“Oh, I can’t stand to hurt Sweetie Belle! I’ve always looked out for her and I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I harmed her!” cried Rarity.
Rainbow gave Rarity an encouraging nudge. “She’ll be okay. She’s held up good so far.”
Rarity looked over to Sweetie Belle who was moving side to side in the crease with a big smile. Rarity eased up and let out a sigh. The puck was dropped and Ponyville regained control. Rarity stood behind the net as Rainbow tried dancing around the Ranger defense. Rainbow passed the puck to Rarity. Dodging a swipe attempt by Sapphire, Rarity quickly spun to the front of the net for a wrap around. Sweetie Belle got caught up in her padding and stumbled, leaving the net wide open. Rarity let out an excited laugh and nudged the puck in. Rarity’s teammates swarmed to her as the goal light reappeared.
“Goal. Her first of the season, number 9, Rarity. Assisted by number 20, Rainbow Dash, and number 42, Twilight Sparkle. Rarity from Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle at 7:29 of the second period.”
Rainbow nodded to Rarity. “See? That wasn’t so bad.”
The game was now tied 2-2. Ponyville rode a 2nd period surge to get back in the game. For the last 2:31 of the period, Manehattan tried answering the Ponyville rally but Pinkie denied them. The final horn eventually rang out. The crowd sat nearly quiet, not too enthused by Manehattan’s efforts in the 2nd period. Ponyville skated off to their locker room with shining smiles.
---
Back in the locker room, the mood was much more improved than it was during the 1st intermission. Everyone was gleefully chatting and preparing for the 3rd. Spike fixed up all their equipment and soon Ponyville was back out on the ice.
In the Manehattan locker room, Trixie was giving her teammates an earful.
“That was a pathetic excuse of an effort! Why are we tied with an expansion team? Please, somepony tell me why.”
No one answered to Trixie. Sweetie Belle started to become frightened and shook a little in her gear.
Trixie kicked open the door and walked toward the ice. The rest of the Rangers followed their angered captain out.
---
The 3rd period began and the puck traveled from end to end, with neither team showing an advantage. Rainbow Dash stepped up her game and was zooming all over the ice. When Trixie went to pass to Sapphire along the blue line, Rainbow glided through in to intercept it. Rainbow had a breakaway and sped toward the net. Sweetie Belle skated up a bit to cut down the angle. Rainbow fiddled the puck from side to side hoping to cross up Sweetie Belle. As Sweetie Belle skated backwards into the net, she caught a scratch in the ice and fell. A large, open net was the only thing that stood in Rainbow’s path. Rainbow’s pride overcame her and she started thinking about which celebration she was going to perform. Rainbow pushed the puck toward the net but it skipped wide. She blew past the wide open net in shock and tried to get the puck back but to no avail. When play stopped, Rainbow threw her helmet against the glass in anger.
A few minutes later, Manehattan took over the tempo of the game. They blasted shots on Pinkie but Pinkie stopped them all. Ponyville had one good series on offense where Rarity had a shot swiped out of mid air by her sister goalie. The puck was behind the net where Applejack and Octavia battled for it. The puck bounced free toward the blue line. Twilight skated up to get the puck but missed, leaving Vinyl Scratch and Trixie alone with Fluttershy for a 2-on-1 break. Fluttershy tried staying between the two Rangers but found herself getting closer to Trixie. Seeing Fluttershy coming toward her, Trixie nodded to Vinyl Scratch. Vinyl Scratch headed to the net and Trixie approached Fluttershy. Trixie’s horn sparked again and before Fluttershy knew it she was spinning out of control. Trixie let out a laugh and passed off to Vinyl Scratch who one-timed the puck in past Pinkie. The goal light spun furiously and the horn filled the air. The Rangers’ faithful stood up and cheered as Trixie hugged Vinyl Scratch behind the net.
“GOOOOOAAAAALLLLLL!! 3-2 MANEHATTAAANNN!! Her first of the season, number 66, VINYLLL SCRAAATCH! Assisted by number 4, The Great and Powerful Trixie. Vinyl Scratch from The Great and Powerful Trixie at 8:03 in the third period.”
Twilight noticed Trixie’s horn glowing during the play and rushed over to the referee.
“Did you see that? Trixie used her magic to spin out Fluttershy! The Rangers cheated!”
The referee shook his head. “Sorry, Twilight. I didn’t see anything. The goal stands.”
Rainbow joined Twilight in protest. “What do you mean you didn’t see it? Princess Celestia could see it from Canterlot it was that obvious!”
“If I hear another word, you’re both getting penalties,” snorted the ref.
Twilight lightened up and led Rainbow back toward Applejack and Rarity who were tending to Fluttershy. When Fluttershy realized what had happened, tears welled up in her eyes.
“Oh, I’m so sorry everyone. I let you down and allowed them to score. It’s all my fault.”
Twilight consoled Fluttershy with a hug. “No, it’s not your fault. Trixie cheated and used her magic to make you lose control.”
Fluttershy’s eyes cleared up when she saw her friends weren’t upset at her.
Trixie skated up to the Golden Leafs and laughed.
“I told you losers that you weren’t going to win!”
The Golden Leafs stared back with a renewed fire in their eyes. Twilight looked at the clock and saw there was only 1:57 left. She called a timeout and approached Pinkie.
“Pinkie, get your goalie stuff off and grab a regular stick. We’re pulling you for a sixth skater.”
“Okie dokie lokie, Twilight!”
Pinkie Pie met Spike over at the bench and he helped remove her goalie pads. A few seconds later, Pinkie was lined up and ready to go for the faceoff. The puck dropped and the clock began its countdown. Twilight had the puck and entered the Manehattan zone. Frantically, Rainbow Dash tried to deke her way to the net, but was stopped. She passed off to Rarity who wound up for a shot but saw Vinyl Scratch diving at her. Rarity pulled the puck back and passed to Fluttershy on the blue line who then shuffled it over to Twilight. Only 40 seconds remained now as the crowd grew louder. Pinkie Pie stood in front of Sweetie Belle, blocking her sight. Applejack skated toward the center where Twilight passed the puck. Applejack fired a shot but it flew wide. The puck ricocheted off the glass and landed between Twilight and Fluttershy. 20 seconds left. Twilight reached for the puck with all her might but in flash Octavia took the puck. Octavia glided through center ice and put away the empty net goal. The crowd gave one final cheer as the Rangers celebrated with Octavia at center ice.
“GOOOOOOAAAAALLLLL!! 4-2 MANEHATTAN!! Her second of the season, number 15, OCTAAAVIAAA!! Octavia unassisted at 9:50 in the third period.”
The Ponyville Golden Leafs collectively sulked, as if a balloon was popped and lost all its air. They reset for one final faceoff at the center. The final seconds ticked away, 0:03…0:02…0:01…0:00. The final horn roared as Manehattan won their first game of the season. Streamers rained from the ceiling as Rangers fans whooped wildly for their victorious team. The Manehattan Rangers gathered around their goalie to congratulate her for a job well done. On the other end, a slight somberness hung in the air over the losing team. One by one, drenched in sweat and worn down, the Golden Leafs drifted toward their locker room. Twilight was the last one off the ice as the Rangers took their celebration to center ice. Before Twilight left, Trixie skated toward her. Trixie skated to a halt which sprayed ice flakes into Twilight’s face.
“See you later, losers!”
---
Twilight sighed and walked to the locker room. Her friends were nearly finished with undressing when she walked in. Even though they experienced defeat in their first game, not one pony appeared too down. Fluttershy was having a laugh with Pinkie Pie while Rarity helped Applejack re-style her mane. Twilight was surprised at upbeat display.
“Hey, girls. I hope you aren’t bummed out.”
Applejack stood up, “Nah, we’re not too beat up ‘bout it. As far as I’m concerned, we had that game won if it weren’t fer Trixie’s cheatin’.”
“After Pinkie made us laugh, I had a lot more fun,” said Fluttershy as she nudged Pinkie.
Rainbow flapped her wings up. “Yeah, even though we lost, we still kicked some flank in the second period. We were doing good then.”
Twilight smiled. “Well I’m glad you all took some positives out of this game. This was just the first game too. We have nine left to win.”
“This was just the first step toward fabulosity. We can only learn and grow from each game. Even though we might lose, we will still be the most stylish team in the EHL. I mean, did you see the jerseys Manehattan had? Bleh!” Rarity stuck her tongue out in disgust.
The ponies laughed as they finished up in the locker room. Using magic, Twilight cleaned their equipment and bundled it all up for Spike to fire-blow it back to Ponyville. Outside the arena, a carriage awaited to take them home. Twilight and friends gave Manehattan one final look before closing the carriage and heading off for Ponyville.
---
When the Golden Leafs returned to Ponyville late at night, Twilight had them all outside her treehouse. Sleepiness settled in as half of her friends couldn’t keep their eyes open. Twilight let out a yawn herself before speaking.
“So, let’s take a few days off then meet at Ponyville Pond for practice. We’ve got the Cloudsdale Red Wings coming here at the end of the week. In the days off, I’ll do some scouting on them.”
Pinkie giggled, “Oh boy! We get to play in front of all our friends! It’ll be so exciting!”
“Pinkie dear, how do you still energy this late at night?” Rarity lazily asked.
Pinkie Pie smiled proudly. “I don’t know, Rarity. I don’t know.”
Everypony had a laugh and then went home for the evening. The Ponyville Golden Leafs experienced their first loss but they were not deterred. They saw positive signs in their performance that they can build on in the future. The coming week would be an exciting one as they get to play in front of their fellow Ponyvillians for the first time. One little setback won’t dampen these ponies’ spirits.
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars for Ponyville @ Manehattan
*Octavia (MHN)
**The Great and Powerful Trixie (MHN)
*** Twilight Sparkle (PGL)
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
---
Fillydelphia 3, CANTERLOT 1
Appleloosa 2, CLOUDSDALE 0
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XFizzle
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1005
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Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
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<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-24T21:42:58+00:00
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2011-09-24T21:42:58+00:00
| 3,270 |
Equestria Hockey League Part IV – Home Opener
by XFizzle
Two days had passed since the Ponyville Golden Leafs returned home from their tough loss to the Manehattan Rangers. During those days off, Twilight and her friends rested and completed their usual chores and jobs. On the third day, the Golden Leafs met for practice at Ponyville Pond. Instead of constructing the boards and glass on the ice, Twilight had Spike only bring two nets, the sticks, and the girls’ practice uniforms. Right on time, the remaining Golden Leafs arrived to the rink. Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie joined Twilight at the edge of the rink. The ponies shivered as they changed into their pads. A cold wind blew fiercely as grey clouds hung low over the pond in the afternoon. Twilight looked around for Applejack but there were no signs of her.
“Hey girls, did any of you hear from Applejack?” asked Twilight
Fluttershy shook her head as she laced up her skates. “No, none of us has. I hope she is alright.”
Suddenly over the hillside, a loud shout erupted. “AAAAAH’M A COMINNN’!!” Each pony turned toward the direction of the voice and there galloping in a hurry was Applejack. Not too far behind, Big Macintosh and Apple Bloom slowly made their way toward the rink, cloud puffs of frigid air billowing from their nostrils. Applejack caught up to the group and quickly changed into her practice uniform.
“Sorry I’m late everypony…we were just doin’…some winter cleanin’…in the barn and…lost track a’time,” said Applejack, huffing a breath in between words.
Twilight, in full gear, stepped out onto the ice. “That’s okay, Applejack. We weren’t ready to start anyways.”
“Hope y’all don’t mind Big Macintosh and Apple Bloom watchin’ us skate.”
Pinkie Pie clasped her last goalie pad strap and flipped her mask down. “Ooh goodie! We’ll have real fans cheering us on today!” As Pinkie said this, Big Mac and Apple Bloom reached the edge of the pond.
“H-h-howdy everyone. S-s-sure is a cold one today. Eeyup.” said Big Mac with his teeth chattering.
Apple Bloom jumped out from behind her brother and greeted the Golden Leafs one by one. “Howdy Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy! I’m excited to watch y’all practice! Especially you Pinkie Pie.”
Pinkie gave Apple Bloom a big smile from behind her facemask. “Thanks Apple Bloom! I won’t let you down!”
The Golden Leafs all stepped out onto the ice for practice. After a few laps around the pond, they stopped in the center to stretch. Once stretching was over, Twilight addressed the team.
“For today’s practice, we’re going to work on being tougher. Manehattan was knocking us all over the ice and we couldn’t hold our ground.”
Rainbow, smirking, raised her hoof. “You mean we couldn’t hold our ice.”
Twilight snapped back, “I know what I said! Anyways, we’re going to work on our toughness. Everyone is going to have the opportunity to give out and receive checks.”
“What will our banking have anything to do with being tougher, dear?” Rarity asked.
Twilight put her hoof to her face. “No! Checking is when you hit the other player. The thing Applejack did to Rainbow Dash during training camp that started that little fight.”
“Hehe, yeah. I remember,” said Applejack as she looked over at Rainbow. Rainbow shot back a snort.
Fluttershy was next to raise her hoof. “Umm…Twilight, does that mean I’m going to get hit.”
“Yes, Fluttershy. I’m sorry but it will be for your own good if you want to make it through this season alive. You’re an easy target out there for the other teams. Don’t worry, we’ll help you.”
Fluttershy looked down and sighed. “Okay. If it will help the team, I’ll do it.”
“Great. To do this drill, we’ll all be on the ice with our sticks as if we’re in a real game. I’ll blow my whistle and shout out someone’s name. Everyone whose name wasn’t called goes over and tries to check the person I did call out. Got it?”
Applejack and Rainbow Dash stood side by side and nodded excitedly. Rarity gave her helmet and mane one final check to make sure they were tidy. Fluttershy wobbled in her skates and her wings shook nervously. Pinkie Pie skated up to Applejack and gave her a big chest bump before heading over to Apple Bloom to teach her some goaltending skills.
Tweeeeeeeeeeet “Applejack! Go!”
Immediately, Applejack skated off toward the other end of the pond with Big Macintosh cheering her on. Rainbow Dash stayed hot on Applejack’s trail trying to catch her. Fluttershy, Rarity, and Twilight remained far away, choosing to wait for Applejack to approach them before striking. Applejack laughed at Rainbow Dash as she skated down toward the center. Rainbow, recognizing she wasn’t going to land a good hit trailing directly behind Applejack, started veering off to the left of Applejack and skated faster to create an angle. Applejack quickly looked to the right and noticed Rainbow was no longer behind her. When Applejack turned back to the front, she heard a yell. “Incoming!” Rainbow Dash blazed toward her from the left side and slammed her flank into Applejack’s. Applejack stumbled in her skates but didn’t fall. After landing the hit, Rainbow was repelled back and she fell on her behind. Applejack laughed and kept on skating. Rarity, Twilight, and Fluttershy were ready to attack. All three began converging onto Applejack. Applejack saw their tactic and lowered her head. Rarity, Twilight, and Fluttershy closed in but with ramming speed, Applejack bowled over all three, leaving them splattered along the ice. Rainbow busted out laughing as Applejack kept skating with a big grin on her face. Twilight slowly got up and blew her whistle.
Tweeeeeet “Rainbow Dash….go. Ugh.”
Rainbow Dash’s laughter quickly turned into stoic determination as she began skating away from everyone. Applejack still carried momentum from her skating and was coming in fast. Rainbow kicked up her pace a notch and glided away from the rapidly approaching Applejack. Rainbow got away and curled around the edge of the pond. Rarity and Fluttershy were back up and weakly gave chase as well. Applejack changed her stride and began to cut down Rainbow’s angle. Rainbow saw this and skated faster. Applejack drew closer and prepared for a crush. In a flash, Applejack sprung toward Rainbow. Seeing Applejack flying at her, Rainbow gritted her teeth and powered her legs onward. She blasted ahead, avoiding Applejack’s attempt. Applejack looked back and saw she missed her hit. Applejack crash landed into a mound of snow head first with just her back legs showing and kicking. As Big Macintosh walked over to his fallen sister, Rainbow came toward Rarity and Fluttershy. Fluttershy closed her eyes and threw herself toward Rainbow but she also missed and landed hard on the ice. Rarity was next in the line and, like Fluttershy, threw herself toward Rainbow. Rainbow zoomed off to the side and dodged Rarity as well. Rarity landed next to Fluttershy and they helped each other up. Rainbow came to a halt to see most of her teammates sprawled out along the ice. She laughed as Twilight reached for the whistle.
Tweeeeeeeeeeeeet “Rarity! Go!”
Rarity let out a gasp and started stumbling to get away from everyone. She was a slower skater so Applejack, now recovered, and Rainbow quickly approached. Applejack ended up beside Rarity and was ready to hit. Rarity, out of instinct and self-defense, nudged her head over and poked Applejack in the forehead with her horn. Applejack stopped to tend to the bruising poke as Rainbow closed in on Rarity. Rarity leaped in fright when she saw Rainbow approaching and tried skating faster. Rainbow was now beside Rarity and went to hit. With a growl, Rarity quickly turned to Rainbow’s side and bit her in the wing. Rainbow let out a yelp in pain. Seeing Rarity’s mean streak striding right towards her, Fluttershy jumped out of the way with a squeak. Rarity kept growling like a dog, daring anyone to come at her. Twilight sighed at the current failure of the drill and blew the whistle again.
Tweeeeeeeet “Twilight Sparkle! I mean, me! Go!”
With whistle still in mouth, Twilight started sprinting away. Rarity, still skating hard, changed direction and aimed for Twilight. Twilight noticed Rarity closing in and came to a hard stop, sending Rarity flying right past. Applejack approached next and was picking up speed. Twilight, quickly figuring out velocities and angles in her head, decided to go head on toward Applejack. Right as they were going to collide, Twilight swiftly spun out of Applejack’s path, with Applejack’s momentum sending her right past. Off on the side, Fluttershy was talking to herself, trying to gather up the courage to deliver a big hit. Seeing this, Twilight turned and skated toward her. Fluttershy noticed Twilight approaching so she stomped her hoof down and began skating at her. Twilight let up on her speed and began to brace herself. Fluttershy came up to Twilight’s side, closed her eyes, and SLAM! Twilight fell to the ice in a heap. Fluttershy re-opened her eyes and noticed she was still standing, having delivered her first hit. She jumped in joy and cheered for herself until she noticed Twilight in trouble. Immediately, Fluttershy raced over and tended to her victim.
“Oh Twilight! I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to hit you so hard! Oh, please forgive me.”
Twilight got up with a loopy smile on her face. “It’s okay, Fluttershy. Just give me a minute to compose myself. That was a doozy of a hit.”
Fluttershy smiled back. “Thanks, Twilight.”
Applejack and Rainbow came up to them swiftly. “I reckon that hit was bigger than the one I gave Dashie. Good work, Fluttershy!”
“Yeah, that was awesome!” Rainbow chimed in.
Twilight, still feeling weak, gathered up the team. Pinkie Pie came back from practicing with Apple Bloom and joined the discussion.
“Well, that drill didn’t go as I planned, but we learned some things. We learned that Applejack is solid as a house.” Applejack chuckled and flexed her leg to show off her muscle. “We saw that Rainbow is too fast for anyone to catch.”
“You got that right!” yelled Rainbow confidently. Twilight weakly grinned and went on.
“We learned that Rarity has a nasty streak inside her.”
Rarity laughed and ran her skate down her mane in a brush-like motion. “Haha, well I have to everything I can to keep my mane and uniform looking ravishing and perfect. If it means I need to play dirty, I’ll play dirty.”
“Well, if you have to, don’t get caught. We can’t afford unnecessary penalties. And finally, we learned Fluttershy can dish out a big hit if she believes in herself.”
“Oh, I will from now on. I’ll try to hit my absolute hardest!” Fluttershy said smiling.
“Good. Let’s use what we learned today for our game against Cloudsdale tomorrow. I haven’t done my research on them yet, but I will do that tonight and give you all a scouting report in the locker room. Let’s rest up and be back here for our home opener!”
The Golden Leafs all put a skate in and on three yelled “TEAM!” Spike arrived to gather up all the equipment and each pony went off toward home. Before leaving the pond, Twilight talked to Spike.
“Spike, take a letter please.”
Spike pulled out a scroll and quill and waited for Twilight’s next words.
“Dear Princess Celestia,
Tomorrow is the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ home opener. Right now Ponyville Pond is just an empty ice rink. If you could help us build a brand new arena on the pond, we would greatly appreciate it.
Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle”
In a green flame, Spike blew the scroll into the air. Almost instantly, Spike belched out a response scroll. He unrolled it and began reading to Twilight.
”Dear Twilight,
The EHL offices have informed me of your plight earlier this week. I am sending out Canterlot’s finest crew of carpenter and masonry colts. Ponyville will have their arena done in a blink of an eye. I also was told of your first loss to Manehattan. Don’t give up and always remember to have fun with your friends. Good luck in your home opener.
Your Royal Highness,
Princess Celestia”
Relieved by the Princess’ words, Twilight and Spike headed for home. Back at the treehouse, Twilight pulled out her EHL media guide and began studying up on the Golden Leafs’ next opponent, the Cloudsdale Red Wings. A few hours of reading later, Twilight sleepily closed her books and trotted off to bed, excited for tomorrow’s big day for the Golden Leafs franchise.
---
The next morning, Twilight woke up early because she couldn’t control her excitement for the game. She remembered what Princess Celestia had said and she raced off toward Ponyville Pond, hoping to see a hockey arena in its place. As she galloped closer toward the pond, she saw the top of the cylindrical arena peering up over the horizon and growing taller. With each stride, Twilight’s smile grew wider. She stopped right in front of the tall arena that sat before her. It was a shining, blue-bricked arena with golden ornaments and accents lining the roof and sides. In large golden letters above the front entrance, “Ponyville Pond” flashed in the rising sunlight. Twilight squealed with delight and walked inside. The concourse was covered in royal blue banners and linens with the Golden Leafs’ logo emblazoned on each one. Concession stands and souvenir booths lined the walls, empty but ready to be filled with delicious arena fare and collectible items later in the evening. Twilight’s eyes stayed wide open in amazement as she walked about the new arena. When she walked past an opening to the arena seats, she stopped dead in her tracks. Below her, she saw the whitest, freshest sheet of ice her eyes ever saw. The red and blue lines on the ice vibrantly gleamed under the arena lights. The Ponyville Golden Leafs logo glistened and shone at center ice. Twilight looked all around, slowly taking in the magnificent scene before her.
“Pretty nice arena, huh?”
Twilight jumped a bit at the unexpected voice. She took a few seconds to calm herself down.
“Yeah, this arena is amazing!” she said as she turned toward her visitor. Suddenly, Twilight’s face went from ghostly white back to its illustrious purple color as her visitor was Princess Celestia, smiling warmly upon Twilight with her mane floating.
Overjoyed, Twilight beamed like a lighthouse at her mentor. “PRINCESS?!? What are you doing here?”
With a laugh, Princess Celestia stood alongside her student. “Why Twilight, I shoved the responsibility of managing a hockey team upon you and Ponyville. The least I could do is watch your home opener is person.”
“Oh, this will be great! I have to run and tell the girls that the Princess is here!” Twilight yelled while jumping in a circle.
The tip of Princess Celestia’s mane went up to Twilight’s lips. “Shhh, let’s keep it our little secret until tonight. I don’t want your team to be distracted before your big game.”
Twilight nodded excessively and gave the Princess a hug. Princess Celestia stepped out of the arena and onto her royal chariot. In a flash, she was gone. Twilight’s excitement doubled and she began to shake at the thought of the Princess being at their home opener later that evening. She left the arena and went back to the treehouse to prepare for the night.
---
Two hours before game time, the Golden Leafs met at Twilight’s house. Together, side by side, they walked toward their new arena. Twilight did a good job containing her knowledge of the arena and Princess Celestia’s presence so that her friends could share the same reaction she had. Just as Twilight did, the others saw the top of the arena as they approached. With anxiousness quickly building, the Golden Leafs broke into a gallop toward their arena. Twilight didn’t run forward with her friends, but chose to hang behind to view their reactions. Applejack and Rainbow Dash jumped and gave each other high fives while Rarity and Fluttershy stood completely still in admiration. Pinkie Pie danced around her friends, taking in the delicious smells that were filtering out from inside. Twilight reached them and directed them all toward their locker room.
On their walk to the locker room, the giggles and squeals of the Golden Leafs rang out down the hall. The ponies trotted back and forth, inspecting and admiring each new thing they passed. As a nice touch, the wall containing the locker room entrance was adorned with each pony’s cutie mark in golden paint. When the team saw their golden marks on the wall, they each yelled and ran up to hug it. After a few extra seconds of adoration, the team finally entered the locker room. There, each pony had their own stall made out of finished oak. The blue carpeting was plush and inviting. A large Golden Leafs logo was stitched and placed boldly in the center of the room. Hanging from golden hooks were their royal blue home uniforms Rarity had made. The ponies quickly put their gear on, their excitement level going through the roof.
Once dressed, Twilight stood in front of her teammates.
“Okay girls. Here’s what we need to know about the Cloudsdale Red Wings. They play a quick-paced game. They like controlling the puck and they have a great defense. They made the Celestia Cup Finals last year so they’re still very good. We’ll need to be on our best if we want to stand a chance. As for their lineup, here’s who they have. Rainbow, at center is Spitfire. She’s very crafty and has great hooves.”
Rainbow let out a fangirl-like squeal. “Oh my gosh! I’m playing across from Spitfire of the Wonderbolts?!? This is going to be awesome! I can show off my speed to Spitfire and the Wonderbolts will have to accept me!”
“Don’t get too excited, Rainbow. Tonight they’re Red Wings, not Wonderbolts. Rarity, their right wing is Soarin. He’s pretty solid and strong. He’ll stand in front of Pinkie a lot and try to block her view.”
Rainbow interrupted again with another squeal. “Soarin plays for them too?!? Even more awesome! Two of the Wonderbolts playing against me tonight. This is too cool!”
Twilight brushed off Rainbow’s star-struck squealing and continued on. “Applejack, their left wing is Gilda. She’ll play you pretty tough. You match up well with her.”
At the sound of Gilda’s name, Pinkie Pie sat up with a slight smile on her face. “Ooooh, Gilda’s back! I hope she remembered that party I threw for her! We had so much fun that day. You think she’ll remember me? Do ya?”
“I’ll do whatever I can to keep her in line, Twi,” a determined Applejack said.
“On defense, they have Pucks. He’s one of the oldest and best defenseponies in the league. He’s very good. The other defensepony is Ditzy Doo. She’s pretty…unusual to say the least. The forwards will have to find a way to outwork them while Fluttershy and I try to shut down Cloudsdale’s forwards.”
Pinkie Pie got up from her stall. “Who’s their goalie, Twilight?”
“I’m not sure. The book I read said it was some goalie named Domarenick Horsek, but he’s been retired for ages now. I guess we’ll have to find out when we get out there.”
Applejack leaped up. “Let’s go git ‘em, girls! Who’s ready for a darn good home opener?”
The Golden Leafs met at the center and put a hoof in. Twilight was last and gave some last words. “Let’s remember what we practiced and have fun tonight. Tough and fun on three!”
One…two…three…”TOUGH AND FUN!” shouted each player as their skates were raised to the sky. They exited the locker room and headed out to the hallway to wait for their introduction. On the other side of the ice, they saw the Red Wings stretching and loosening up behind their entrance door. From the hallway, the Golden Leafs heard a loud buzz bellowing out from the crowd. The murmur of all the Ponyvillians grew louder as the countdown clock ticked down toward zero. The Golden Leafs looked all over their home arena, down to each nook and cranny. A calming peace fell upon each of them as they quickly grew accustomed to their home arena. The lights dimmed which drew a loud cheer from the crowd. Spotlights illuminated on the ice and affixed themselves to an upper balcony. A familiar voice echoed out to each corner, ready to announce the lineups and the surprise guest.
“Filles and gentlecolts, welcome to Ponyville Pond for the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ home opener!! My name is Spike, the official super cool announcing dragon for the Ponyville Golden Leafs! Sit back, relax, and get ready to cheer on your Golden Leafs as they take on the visiting Cloudsdale Red Wings!”
Loud booing came at the sound of the Red Wings name. There was a small smattering of cheers as a handful of pegasi ponies came down from Cloudsdale for the game proudly wearing their Red Wings jerseys. Spike continued his announcing duties.
”Since this is Ponyville’s home opener, we have a special guest in our midst tonight. All the way from Canterlot, your benevolent leader and friend, Princess Celestia!!”
This time the whole arena cheered together in unison as Princess Celestia stepped out onto the balcony, flanked by her royal guards. She waved to everyone in attendance and took her seat. Down in the hallway, Twilight saw all her friends’ faces light up in surprise when the Princess’ name was called. Their anxiousness reached a fever pitch and they were now itching to get out on the ice.
”Now the starting lineup for the Cloudsdale Red Wings. At center, number 13, famed member of the Wonderbolts, it’s Spitfire! At left wing, number 44, Gilda! At right wing, number 96, also a famed member of the Wonderbolts, it’s Soarin! On defense, number 5, Pucks! Also on defense, number…question mark-exclamation point…whatever, it’s Ditzy Doo!”
Each member of the Red Wings flew out from their entrance door briskly as their name was called. They landed along the blue line as they awaited the announcement of their goalie.
”Starting in goal for Cloudsdale, rookie goalie number 35, it’s Scootaloo!”
Out from the door skated out Scootaloo. Her tiny wings flapped happily as she skated toward her teammates. She ended up inside her goal crease and scooted from side to side, chipping up the ice for traction.
Princess Celestia applauded as the spotlights circled around the arena. The lights then fell upon the Golden Leafs’ door. Spike started up again.
”And now, for the PONYVILLE GOLDEN LEAFS! At center, number 20, your town weatherpony and friend, it’s RAINBOW DASH! At left wing, number 9, the most beautiful pony in the arena and the owner of the Carousel Boutique, it’s the fair and lovely RARITY! On the right wing, number 88, the hard-working, apple-bucking, Sweet Apple Acres-running reliable pony pal, it’s APPLEJACK! On defense, number 42, my best friend and Ponyville’s resident egghead, it’s TWILIGHT SPARKLE! Also on defense, number 0, beloved by ponies and creatures alike, the ‘Stare Master’ FLUTTERSHY!”
The Golden Leafs skated out onto the ice with their introduction. With a more modest entrance this time around, they took the time to revel in the downpour of cheers that came from their fans and fellow city dwellers. They lined up across from the Red Wings and stared them down. The Red Wings did not look back. They instead were looking down at the ice with a quiet focus. However, Scootaloo looked up to see Rainbow Dash standing across the ice. In a flash, Scootaloo skated all the way to Rainbow and stared up at her with a happy smile.
“Oh hey Rainbow Dash! I can’t wait to see you skate circles around everyone. You’re going to be the best!”
Rainbow looked back at Scootaloo with a smug expression. “Yes, yes, you’re right, kid. I will be the best! See you in the game.”
Scootaloo propelled herself back to the net and bounced around with delight.
”And in net, number 33, the party pony with the power of perfecting desserts, it’s PINKIE PIE!”
Pinkie skated out and hopped to her place in net. She skipped around the net to cheers. The light flickered back on and the teams circled around in their zones. The teams drifted toward the center circle. The referee goes through the usual goalie check and readies the puck.
With the drop of the puck, Ponyville’s home opener was underway.
---
The first few minutes of the 1st period went back and forth as each team battled their nerves and committed a couple turnovers. After the 8 minute mark, the Red Wings gained control of the puck and didn’t let go. Every ten seconds or so, Gilda, Spitfire, and Soarin ripped shots on net. Pinkie found herself bouncing back and forth, up and down to make saves. Pucks and Ditzy also had a few shots along the point which Pinkie blocked. Ponyville could not get the puck away from Cloudsdale. Even after Applejack placed a check on Gilda and won the puck, Ditzy glided up and slammed Applejack right back. Shot after shot, Ponyville scrambled to gather the puck and get some offense going. It took nearly three minutes before Ponyville finally had possession in the Cloudsdale zone. The Golden Leafs still did not get a shot off though as Pucks pressured Rainbow into making a bad pass toward Rarity which Soarin swooped up. Back the other way, Cloudsdale ran a play which saw Spitfire receiving the puck behind the net. Both Soarin and Gilda streaked toward the net from the wings. By doing that, Fluttershy and Twilight closed in on the crease in front of Pinkie to stay with the Red Wing forwards. This left Ditzy open up the middle to which Spitfire passed her the puck and Ditzy let off a rocket shot through a crowd of skaters. Ponyville was lucky as Ditzy’s shot deflected off a leg and bounced out of harm’s way.
With four minutes left in the period, the Ponyville zone resembled more of a shooting gallery with each Red Wing getting two shots off. Pinkie once again stood tall and made brilliant saves to keep the game scoreless. On the other end, Scootaloo sat in front of her net daydreaming about playing alongside Rainbow Dash. She faced zero shots and it appeared to stay that way as Cloudsdale kept possession. Around the 2 minute mark, Ponyville finally caught a break and had the puck for a 2-on-1 rush. Rainbow and Applejack were pushing toward the net with Pucks back on defense. Rainbow looked for an opening to pass over to Applejack but Pucks closed in and cut her off. Rainbow gave the puck away and back came Cloudsdale. Gilda took the puck down to the corner behind Pinkie. She was met by Twilight who tried playing tough to get the puck away. Gilda powered out and passed to Spitfire who grabbed it at the faceoff circle. Fluttershy glided over to cut Spitfire off but Spitfire lightly flicked the puck between Fluttershy’s legs and blazed around her to get it back. Rarity reached her stick out to poke at Spitfire but Spitfire quickly lifted the puck up onto her stick blade and jumped over Rarity’s stick. Spitfire set the puck back down on the ice and fired a shot. Pinkie kept her eye on the puck the entire time and was able to glove it for a great save. The crowd applauded Pinkie for the save and Spitfire for her amazing puck handling display. Ten seconds remained in the period and to no one’s surprise, the Red Wings had the puck and had two more shots on Pinkie.
A horn blew throughout the arena for the end of the 1st period. It was all Cloudsdale in that period even though the score didn’t reflect it. The Ponyville crowd cheered both teams off the ice. One by one the Golden Leafs walked to their locker room.
---
They all reached their stalls except for Pinkie. As soon as she stepped into the room, Pinkie collapsed in an exhausted daze. She dragged herself to her spot and unwrapped a special energy cupcake. She gulped it down and soon she was back to her bouncy self. She spoke up to everyone in the room.
“Whew! I am so tired! That was a crazy period! I was over there and over there, and here and there and here and there. Wowee.”
Twilight looked over to her. “Sorry we let so many shots on you, Pinkie. You did a great job out there.
“Cloudsdale is playin’ tighter than a square apple in a round box. We cain’t get through ‘em!” exclaimed Applejack.
“I know that period was rough, but I think I realized something,” said Twilight. “Cloudsdale’s forwards didn’t try to check us too often. They are more concerned with skating and having the puck.”
Rainbow blew her mane out of her face. “Well duh, they have two of the Wonderbolts on their team! Of course they’re going to skate fast. It’s not rocket science.”
“So then we’ll take them off their game…by getting tough. Just like in practice. Let’s rock their worlds. They seem like a finesse team so if we show them a little toughness, they’re bound to fold,” Twilight said with a stern look toward Rainbow.
Rainbow jumped out her of stall. “Now you’re talking!”
“Let’s do it then. Let’s get physical!”
Twilight nodded to her teammates who nodded back with a grin.
The Golden Leafs marched back out onto the ice for the 2nd period. Cloudsdale also made their way back onto the ice ready for the new period.
---
With another puck drop, the 2nd period began. Ponyville started to execute their strategy. Each time a Cloudsdale skater touched the puck, a Golden Leaf was right there to deliver a hit. Just as Cloudsdale racked up shots in the 1st, Ponyville was racking up hits in the 2nd. Since Ponyville was hitting more, they had the puck more. Applejack snapped Ponyville’s first shot on net but Scootaloo jumped up to grab it. During the play stoppage, Scootaloo held up the puck in her glove and called out to Rainbow Dash to show her. Rainbow didn’t smile but gave a little approving nod.
Cloudsdale won the next faceoff and had the puck in the Ponyville zone. Spitfire passed off to Soarin along the boards. With Rarity coming in quick to hit, Soarin rushed a pass to Ditzy on the blue line. Sensing the weak pass, Rainbow Dash zoomed up to intercept it. Rainbow blasted off for a breakaway. Scootaloo strained to see who was coming towards her. When she noticed it was Rainbow Dash, she giggled and hopped up and down with excitement. Scootaloo skated up out of the crease to meet up with Rainbow.
“Hey Rainbow Dash! That was an awesome interception! Can you teach me how to do that?”
Rainbow smiled as she blew right by Scootaloo. “Sure thing, kiddo!” she muttered through the stick in her mouth.
With a wide open net, Rainbow slammed the puck in the net. The fans jumped to their hooves and a cheer exploded out along with the siren of the goal horn. The rest of the Golden Leafs skated down to celebrate Rainbow’s goal. Scootaloo glided over to join in but a frustrated Gilda grabbed Scootaloo’s jersey with her beak and dropped Scootaloo back in the net.
”GOAL! 1-0 PONYVILLE! Scoring her first goal of the season, number 20, RAINBOW DASH!”
Play resumed and Spitfire won the faceoff away from Rainbow. Spitfire kept the puck and brought it over the blue line. Twilight and Fluttershy came together in the middle to block Spitfire’s path but she deked to the right to get Fluttershy off stride then pulled the puck back and deked left to get through Twilight. With just Pinkie in front of her, Spitfire twirled a shot toward the upper left corner. Pinkie quickly tried to raise her blocker hoof but it was too late. Just like that, Cloudsdale tied the game 1-1. Spitfire skated toward center ice toward her awaiting teammates for celebratory headbutts. The goal light flickered and the crowd sat in stunned silence about what they just saw.
”Goal for Cloudsdale. Her first of the season, Spitfire!"
The Golden Leafs drifted back to center ice in shock of Spitfire’s amazing skill. They shook out of their trance and play was back on. Reviving their strategy, the Golden Leafs kept hitting and had the puck more but couldn’t get another goal. The 2nd period quickly came to close and the crowd gave the Golden Leafs an encouraging yell as they exited the ice.
---
Back in the locker room, Twilight and company were energetic and pleased with the period. They had plenty of hits and kept the puck mostly out of their zone to which Pinkie was grateful.
Twilight cooled down and addressed the team.
“Now that’s more like it! We were great! The hitting was strong and we had the lead for once. Good work, girls!”
“And I’m not as tired as I was last period!” piped up Pinkie.
Rainbow flew up into the air eagerly. “Did you all see my goal? I flew up, charging like a Wonderbolt, I stole the puck, blew past the little orange squirt, and pounded it in the net!”
“That was amazing, Rainbow Dash. You skated so fast and did so well,” said Fluttershy as she put her helmet back on.
Twilight spoke back up. “Now remember, we were in this same situation last game with Manehattan. Don’t let up on the toughness and get some quality shots on net. At least we won’t have a cheater to deal with. We can do this!”
The one minute warning horn blasted throughout the arena and the Golden Leafs trotted back to the ice.
Over in the Red Wings locker room, Spitfire pepped up her team by telling them to fight fire with fire; to match Ponyville’s physicality and hit back. The Red Wings accepted the mission and made their way back to the ice.
---
The final period began and neither team budged for the other. The hockey game felt more like a table tennis match, with one team having the puck, getting hit, then the other team claiming the puck, getting hit, and so on. Rarity had the puck in the Ponyville zone until she was hit by Soarin. Soarin took the puck and was immediately slammed by Rainbow. As soon as Rainbow turned up the ice, Gilda was there to lay a check on Rainbow. Gilda took the puck and before she could move, Applejack glided in with a hit. With each check, the crowd cheered louder, letting both teams know their toughness was being appreciated.
The Golden Leafs finally put an end to the hitting party and had the puck on offense. Applejack shot the puck around the boards to Rarity who was waiting on the other wing. Rarity brought the puck toward the net where she was pressured by Ditzy. Rarity saw Rainbow sprinting at the net and quickly slipped a pass that direction. Rainbow got the puck and flicked a shot on net but it skipped wide, eliciting an “Ooooooh” from the fans.
Cloudsdale came back the other way and dumped the puck into the Ponyville corner. Fluttershy went after the puck but was nervous she was vulnerable. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see Gilda charging in hard toward her. As Gilda closed in, Fluttershy braced herself and pounced away from the corner toward the brutish griffin. Gilda’s eyes enlarged in shock when Fluttershy flew at her. WHAM! Crushed by a devastating check, Gilda flew back and hit the ice hard. The crowd erupted as Fluttershy quickly gathered herself to get the puck again. She passed it over to Twilight who passed it up and out of the zone.
Only 3 minutes remained when Rarity received Twilight’s pass. She brought the puck in but found no one open. Unsure of what to do, Rarity skated in and tried to shoot. Pucks came by and poked the puck away before Rarity could get the shot off. A little frustrated, Rarity bolted after Pucks and geared up for a hit. However, Pucks had just passed the puck off to Soarin who entered the zone. Rarity kept on her path and delivered a board rattling hit to the Cloudsdale defensepony. The referee saw this and raised his hoof for a delayed penalty. Twilight stole the puck from Soarin which caused the whistle to blow.
Tweeeeeeeet “Penalty, Ponyville number 9. Two minutes for boarding.”
Rarity skated up to the referee and began to plead her case.
“Oh, you surely don’t mean that, do you darling? I mean, a fine looking gentlecolt such as yourself just couldn’t have the heart to throw little ol’ me into the penalty box right?”
The referee stared back unamused. “Save it, lady. It’s two minutes.”
“Hmph!” Rarity pouted all the way to the box. The Ponyville fans booed as the Golden Leafs were about to embark on a very crucial penalty kill with just over two minutes left in a tie game.
The puck dropped and Cloudsdale’s power play began. Cloudsdale had a similar strategy to Ponyville, with each skater staying in a certain area and passing back and forth among themselves until a shooting opportunity presented itself. The Red Wings’ passing was crisp and right on the stick tape. Gilda passed to Pucks, Pucks to Ditzy, Ditzy to Soarin, Soarin to Spitfire behind the net, Spitfire back to Soarin, Soarin to Ditzy, Ditzy to Pucks along the blue line. The Golden Leafs moved from side to side along with the Red Wings’ passing. When it appeared a Red Wing was going to shoot, Applejack or Rainbow dove in front to block. Rarity’s penalty was down to one minute left and Cloudsdale still did not have a shot. Pucks faked a shot and passed back over to Ditzy. Ditzy passed to Soarin who was along the boards. Soarin passed back to Ditzy and quickly moved in to block Pinkie’s view. Ditzy reared back for a shot, forcing Applejack to dive for a block. Ditzy pulled back and passed to Pucks. Seeing a lane to the net, Pucks fired a swift shot. Soarin tried positioning his stick to redirect the shot but missed. The puck drilled Pinkie in the chest and bounced in front of Twilight. Twilight quickly shot the puck down the ice to kill the last few seconds of the penalty.
As Rarity stepped out of the box, the Ponyville crowd rang out in loud applause for the clutch penalty kill. The Golden Leafs fed off the energy and skated harder as the clock reached the final minute. Spitfire collected the puck behind Scootaloo and carried it up through center. She dumped it toward the corner to which Soarin gave chase. Twilight and Rarity bunched up there to get the puck before Soarin came swooping in. Twilight knocked the puck around the boards to Fluttershy. Fluttershy tried passing over to Rainbow but Spitfire brushed by to intercept. Spitfire deked around Twilight who had retreated back to the net. Pinkie stepped up to take Spitfire head on. Spitfire blasted a rifle straight toward the five hole. Pinkie collapsed her legs to block the shot and swept it over to Applejack on the side. Applejack quickly brought the puck up with 10 seconds left. She got over the blue line and halted. Rainbow speeded down the center to catch up. Applejack snapped a pass toward the net for Rainbow to pick up. 0:07…0:06…Rainbow saw the puck and reached out to touch it. 0:05…0:04…the puck landed on Rainbow’s stick blade. 0:03…0:02…0:01…Right as the potential game-winning shot was flung, Ditzy Doo appeared out from nowhere and landed a helmet-rocking check on Rainbow. 0:00.
Bzzzzzzzzzzt
The puck sailed off into the corner with Rainbow drifting lifelessly toward the boards. She hit the boards hard with a thud as the period horn blew and the Ponyville faithful gasped at the final play. The referees and the Golden Leafs rushed over to the fallen pony. Rainbow opened her eyes and slowly worked her way back to her hooves. Receiving a standing ovation, even from Princess Celestia herself, Rainbow was helped toward the locker room by her friends.
---
In the locker room, an EHL doctor checked over Rainbow as the rest of the team started to freak out about playing in overtime.
After shining a light in her eyes and checking her heart rate, the doctor gave Rainbow the nod of approval and left. Twilight tried calming down her team as Rainbow held an ice pack to her head.
“Girls, settle down. Overtime isn’t any different than a regular period.”
Rarity stepped up to Twilight. “Don’t you know what ‘sudden death’ means? If Cloudsdale scores, we lose! I don’t want to lose in front of the Princess! She’ll go back to Canterlot and tell all her subjects about how poorly we did and we’ll be the laughingstock of the EHL!”
“Snap out of it!” yelled Twilight as she clunked Rarity on the helmet. “Everything will be fine. And think of it this way, if we score, we win!”
“’S-s-sudden death’? That sounds s-s-scary,” said Fluttershy trembling.
Applejack stood up and faced her teammates. “It’s just an expression y’all. We need ta’ stop our worryin’ and go back to playin’ hockey. We got this.”
Pinkie bounced up and flipped her mask down. “I’m ready to go, Twilight! I’m not afraid of suddenly dying!”
Twilight let out a groan while Rainbow tossed the ice pack aside and put her equipment back on.
“Everypony shut it! We’re going back out there and winning.”
Unprepared for Rainbow’s outburst, the locker room grew silent. Twilight nodded and the Golden Leafs trotted back toward the ice.
---
Back on the ice, the clock only read 5 minutes as usual with overtime. Cloudsdale skated around their end and then met at the net to go over their strategy. Ponyville approached the center circle, already knowing what they needed to do: score first.
The puck dropped and the overtime period began. Rainbow won the faceoff and passed it back to Twilight. Twilight skated up and dumped the puck into the corner. Applejack rushed in after it as Pucks also charged for it. Applejack got there first and had to keep it away from Pucks’ stick. Rainbow stuck to the boards behind Applejack and tapped her stick to let her know she was open. Applejack heard the tapping and flicked the puck behind her along the boards. Rainbow retrieved it and tried darting in and out of the Red Wings skaters. Soarin dove into Rainbow’s path but she hopped over. Gilda was next to drift toward Rainbow but as Gilda went to deliver a hit, Rainbow skated harder and ducked low, causing Gilda to miss. The only defender left in Rainbow’s way was Ditzy. Rainbow held the puck off to her right hoping Ditzy would bite. Ditzy saw the puck and poked for it, just as Rainbow wanted. Rainbow quickly pulled the puck back in toward her skates and moved it to the left, completely faking out Ditzy. Rainbow now had an open path to the net. Scootaloo, now determined to deny her idol a game-winning goal, stood ready. Rainbow reared back her head to shoot.
Out from the corner, an orange and yellow blur flew in like a mystical wind to take away Rainbow’s puck. It was Spitfire and she was now off to the races. Twilight and Fluttershy scrambled back to cut Spitfire off. Spitfire was coming in on the left wing. Twilight dove across but Spitfire held up and waited for Twilight to slide by. Fluttershy then came across and tried to land a check on the Cloudsdale center. Spitfire fought back and was now flank to flank with Fluttershy. Both players were heading at Pinkie’s net at full speed. With one final nudge, Spitfire veered Fluttershy away and poked the puck to Pinkie’s left. Pinkie dove left but Spitfire had already snapped her stick back. Lifting her back hoof in the air, Spitfire performed a picture perfect hoof drag and blasted the puck into the now wide open net. All together, the Golden Leafs’ hearts sank as the puck rattled around the goal and the goal light illuminated. A giant groan rung out from the crowd as Spitfire threw herself at the boards in celebration.
"Goal by Spitfire! Cloudsdale wins in overtime 2-1!"
The remaining Red Wings dashed toward Spitfire, throwing the sticks and gloves in the air in jubilation. The Golden Leafs could only look down in disbelief and disappointment. Cloudsdale finished their celebration and skated off the ice. Still drifting sadly around the ice, Twilight and friends eventually went toward the door. Despite the heartbreaking loss, the Ponyville faithful cheered their home team off the ice, impressed by their valiant effort. Encouraged by the support, the Golden Leafs’ frowns turned into very faint smiles. They finally trotted off the ice and headed back to their locker room.
---
In the locker room, the mood was silent once again. No one said a word as they undressed, still feeling the bitter disappointment of defeat. After a few minutes of wrangling up their items and cleaning up, the silence was finally broken. Not by a Golden Leaf, but by two Red Wings. Spitfire and Soarin walked in and faced the Ponyville squad. Spitfire walked up to Twilight and extended her hoof for a hoofshake.
“Soarin and I just wanted to come in and compliment you girls on a game well played. No one’s pushed our team to the limit like you did tonight.”
Twilight accepted Spitfire’s hoofshake.
“Thank you. It really means a lot.”
Soarin stepped in. “Don’t get too down on yourselves. Keep it up and soon you guys will be regular contenders. We mean it.”
The rest of the Golden Leafs smiled upon receiving this praise. Rainbow Dash was still sulking at her stall, upset about the loss.
Spitfire approached Rainbow with a smile. “Hey Rainbow, you had some pretty cool moves out there. Since we’re still going to be in town tomorrow, you wanna hang out and show us around?”
Rainbow looked up at Spitfire and her icy frown melted to a big grin. “You bet! I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Spitfire and Soarin said goodbye to the Golden Leafs and left. Twilight was about to speak to her team when Spike ran into the room with a scroll. Twilight opened it and read it aloud.
”Dear Ponyville Golden Leafs,
I am very proud with your performance this evening. You showed passion and heart down on the ice. Most importantly, it appeared you were having fun. Do not let this loss dampen your spirits. I am confident you will reach greatness someday. I wish I could have visited you after the game but I had to return to Canterlot on official royal business. I greatly look forward to seeing you play in Canterlot soon.
Your Royal Highness,
Princess Celestia”
Twilight looked up from the scroll to see her friends’ faces. They looked much more upbeat and encouraged from the Wonderbolts’ visit and the Princess Celestia’s letter. Spike packed up the equipment and the Golden Leafs headed back to Twilight’s treehouse.
---
Back at the treehouse, the girls were chatting and even sharing a few laughs. Spike lit the fireplace and each pony curled up in front of the fire to rest and to heal their sores. Twilight made hot chocolate with Pinkie Pie’s help and handed them out. Twilight glanced at the schedule and saw their next game was in Appleloosa.
“Hey Applejack, do you think you could let your family in Appleloosa know we’re coming? We’re going to need to take a train there and we’ll need a place to stay for the night. It would be very much appreciated.”
“No problem, Twi. I’ll send a message out to Braeburn and see what he can do. I’m lookin’ forward to goin’ back there to see him and Bloomberg again.”
“Great.” Twilight then spoke up for every pony to hear. “Okay girls. Tonight, we took another step towards winning. We had a lead and took the game to overtime. I’m proud of every one of you. With a little bit more practice and hard work, I’m sure we can get over the hump and win a game.”
Pinkie giggled. “Silly Twilight. We’re ponies! We don’t have humps! Camels have humps!”
The others laughed at Pinkie and Twilight’s exchange. After the laughs settled, Twilight continued.
“Our next game is in Appleloosa against the Black Apples. Applejack is going to work on getting us a ride there. Let’s take a few days off then it’s off to Appleloosa!”
“Yeah!” her friends shouted.
Even though Ponyville suffered another loss, the Golden Leafs gained valuable crunch time experience and held their first lead. Their effort was praised throughout Ponyville the following days. Ponyville citizens expressed their excitement for future Golden Leafs games whenever they saw one of the players roaming about the town. Seeing the excitement spreading through town gave Twilight and friends added confidence and a will to work harder so their fans could eventually witness a win. For now though, it was time to travel to Appleloosa to take on a new opponent.
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars for Cloudsdale @ Ponyville
* Spitfire (CRW)
** Pinkie Pie (PGL)
*** Rainbow Dash (PGL)
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
---
MANEHATTAN 3, Fillydelphia 2
APPLELOOSA 3, Canterlot 0
EHL Standings (W-L)
---
Appleloosa 2-0
Manehattan 2-0
Cloudsdale 1-1
Fillydelphia 1-1
Canterlot 0-2
Ponyville 0-2
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XFizzle
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1005
| 5 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-24T21:51:35+00:00
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2011-09-24T21:51:35+00:00
| 3,227 |
Equestria Hockey League Part V – Shootout at the Appleloosa Corral
by XFizzle
CHOOOOOOO CHOOOOOOOOOO
The westward train chuggled along at great speed toward Appleloosa. The landscape gradually transformed from the white, winter wonderland of Ponyville to the brown, dry desert of the Western lands. On board the train were the Ponyville Golden Leafs, awaiting their arrival at their next opponent’s city. In the lodging car, Twilight, Spike, and friends sat around bored with not much else to do.
“Ugh, it’s so boring on this train. I knew I should’ve brought my books,” said Twilight with a sigh.
“I know what we can do! We can braid each other’s manes. It would be soooo fabulous!” Rarity exclaimed.
Rainbow Dash stuck out her tongue in disgust. “I think I’d rather watch paint dry than do that frilly girly stuff.”
“Ah’m with Rainbow on that one,” said Applejack. Rainbow then gave Applejack a hoof bump.
Pinkie Pie bounced up and down from her seat bubbling with excitement. “Ooh! How about another game? Let’s play ‘I Spy’! I’ll go first. I spy with my little eye something pink!”
In monotone unison and with glazed eyes, everyone answered, “Fluttershy’s mane.”
“Nopey dopey! Guess again!”
“Your mane.”
“Nooooooooooo. Guess agaaaain!” said Pinkie in a musical tone while her smile widened more.
Still unenthused, everyone guessed together, “The streak in Twilight’s mane.”
“Right! How did you all know?”
“Because you’ve only said that for the seventh time already! There’s only like three things in this train car that are pink!” snapped Rainbow Dash.
Twilight’s magic conjured up a muzzle that clamped itself onto Rainbow’s mouth. “Calm down, Rainbow. She was just trying to help cure the boredom. There’s got to be other cars on this train with something to do. Let’s go explore!”
“B…but I like it here, Twilight. This cushion is so soft and warm,” said Fluttershy with a mix of hesitation and laziness in her voice.
Spike let out a giant yawn and plopped himself down on a bed. “I agree with Fluttershy. It’s fine right here. I think I’m going to get some shut eye. Hauling everypony’s equipment is tough work.”
“That’s fine, Spike. Everypony else, let’s go. Exploring is better than doing nothing.”
Fluttershy reluctantly rose from her comfortable seat and joined her friends in walking to the other train cars. They trotted through the dining car, the luggage car, the freezer car, and ended up in another lodging car. Disappointed in what they had found, the girls turned back around. Suddenly, a loud thump came from the door leading to the next car. Twilight and friends whizzed back around to see what might have caused the noise. Twilight slowly slid the door open while the others looked on. When the door was fully open, flashing lights and loud ringing and buzzing noises erupted at them. Before them was the gaming car, filled with various arcade games and fun activities. There was whack-a-parasprite machine, skee-ball, a ring toss, and a basketball toss. Sensing that their boredom was now destroyed, each pony rushed into the car with a squeal. Everypony hopped from machine to machine, playing with each other and laughing. In between the merriment, Twilight noticed a peculiar game off in the corner. When she approached, she saw that it was a shooting game. Plenty of colorful targets hung lifeless while a toy gun lay at her hooves. Twilight pressed a big red button on the near wall and the game came to life. The targets moved about in random directions while lights flashed in distraction. Twilight’s horn glowed and soon the gun was hovering up to her eye, firing at the targets. The other ponies saw Twilight’s game and walked over to watch. When the round was over, Rainbow shoved Twilight out of the way and took over.
“Haha! Yes! Now this is a real game. Take that! And that!” yelled Rainbow as she shot.
Applejack’s eyes lit up as Rainbow knocked down a flurry of targets. “Yee-haw! I call next after Dash!”
“No, I’m going next after Rainbow. I was here first!” said Rarity as she bumped Applejack with her flank.
“Oh no you ain’t! I called it!”
Twilight stepped in between them. “Girls! There’s plenty of time for everypony to play. We’re nowhere near Appleloosa yet.”
When Rainbow finished, Applejack rushed up to take the gun from her. Rarity pushed the button to begin and used her magic to claim the gun. Applejack let out an angry snort as Rarity began her round. Rarity, with her knack for precision and detail, knocked out every target in succession. Her friends cheered louder for each target she busted. Rainbow was the most impressed and flew around Rarity as she finished.
“That was so cool, Rarity! Betcha you can’t do it again!”
Rarity let out a laugh. “Oh Rainbow, darling, I can beat this game with my eyes closed.”
Rarity pushed the button to restart the game. With her eyes closed, she began to miss. Sensing she wasn’t hitting anything, Rarity clenched her teeth and tried focusing harder. Rainbow was laughing as Rarity finished up her round with only a couple successful hits.
“Haha! Told ya you couldn’t do it again. Allow me.”
Rainbow took the gun and started her round also with eyes closed. Rainbow shot wildly, and by pure chance, she hit all the targets. Rarity’s mouth dropped in shock and the others cheered for Rainbow’s perfect round. When Rainbow opened her eyes, she turned toward Rarity and stuck her tongue out. Redness flashed across Rarity’s face and she tore the gun away from Rainbow.
“What luck! That wasn’t skill! I’m the better shot.”
Rainbow got in Rarity’s face. “Oh yeah? Well I wasn’t the pony who couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn!”
While Rainbow and Rarity continued their spat, Twilight began crafting an idea. She remembered passing a freezer car on the way to the arcade. She then thought of a way to hold a practice on the train. When it all came together, she separated Rarity and Rainbow and announced to her friends.
“I just thought of a great idea! Remember that freezer car we walked through? I can turn it into a miniature rink and we could practice. Since we’re all enjoying the shooting game, how about we have shooting practice with our sticks and pucks?”
Pinkie Pie looked back at Twilight in disappointment. “Awww, but we were starting to have so much fun here!”
“Those two weren’t,” said Twilight as she pointed over to Rainbow and Rarity who were still wrestling the gun away from each other.
Having enough of their quarrel, Twilight poofed the gun away so that neither Rainbow nor Rarity could have it. She told them of the new plan and they complied. Twilight led her friends to the freezer car where she changed the floor into ice and teleported everyone’s sticks from their luggage.
Using the targets from the shooting game, Twilight had them magically affixed to the walls of the freezer car and made them randomly appear and fade quickly. She gave each of her friends their stick, a puck, and a section of the car to shoot at. Not before long, each pony was facing a wall and firing away at the magically moving targets. When a target was hit, a number appeared on the wall indicating that pony’s hit count.
During the shooting practice, Rainbow occasionally glanced over at Rarity’s score. Each time she looked, Rarity’s number had increased by five or six. Rarity had 35 while Rainbow was at a measly 14. Not wanting to be shown up, Rainbow increased her output. She shot quicker and wildly, hoping to catch up to Rarity. When her wildness wasn’t helping her score out, Rainbow flew over and stole Fluttershy’s puck. With two pucks, Rainbow shot even faster. Everyone but Rarity stopped to watch Rainbow’s determined display. Finally, Rainbow was getting some hits and her score started to inflate drastically. 14 quickly turned into 32 and she was hot on Rarity’s trail. Rarity noticed everyone had stopped to watch Rainbow. When she saw Rainbow’s score rocketing, Rarity stole Applejack’s puck and began firing off wild shots of her own. Both sides of the freezer car were rattling from the multitude of shots it was absorbing. Both Rarity and Rainbow’s scores were climbing up into the 40s, then the 50s, then 60s and so on.
After a few more minutes, Rarity and Rainbow was getting visibly weak. They were panting and letting out a grunt with each shot. Tied up at 99-99, both ponies tried their hardest to hit the next target. The targets flashed and faded on the wall in front of them. Simultaneously, Rarity and Rainbow reared back for a shot. Rainbow slapped the puck swiftly without thinking while Rarity waited for the right moment to shoot. Both pucks were in the air, zooming at a fading target. In a one-two flash, Rainbow and Rarity both hit a target and their scores illuminated to show 100-100. Both shooters started celebrating until they noticed the other’s celebration. Once again, Rarity and Rainbow were nose to nose.
“I scored first! I won! You were too slow I’m afraid,” said Rarity through her teeth.
Rainbow pushed her nose into Rarity’s. “Me? Slow? I don’t even know what slow is. I scored first! I won!”
“We’ll see what the others think. They saw it.”
Applejack, Twilight, Fluttershy, and Pinkie turned to each other in confusion, trying to come to an agreement as to who won.
Twilight spoke first. “I don’t know you two. It was awfully close. Wouldn’t you just be okay with tying?”
“NO! NO TYING!” yelled Rarity and Rainbow Dash together.
“I couldn’t tell neither. Both of ya shot so fast, it was hard to keep track,” said Applejack with an uneasy chuckle and her hoof behind her head.
Rarity walked up to Fluttershy and snuggled up next to her with a smile. “Fluttershy, be a dear and tell everyone I won.”
“Um…uh…I-I don’t know, Rarity.”
Rainbow swooped in and pulled Fluttershy away from Rarity. “No, tell them I won! Come on, Fluttershy. We’re friends. Pegasi stick together!”
“Well…um…Rainbow.”
Twilight stepped in to save Fluttershy. “Enough! It ends in a tie. You’re both good shooters. Besides, we are a team. It’s not about who’s better than the other. It’s about being good together.”
Pinkie put down her popcorn she had been randomly eating during the dispute. “Twilight’s right! Besides, I think Rainbow won. But it’s okay. Let’s go back to the games!”
Rainbow flew over to Pinkie and gave her a thank you hug. Rarity stomped over to them and tried to get Pinkie to change her mind. When more arguing broke out, the freezer car door exploded open and in stepped the train conductor.
“JUST WHAT IN EQUESTRIA IS GOIN’ ON IN HERE?”
The arguing ceased immediately and quickly the girls hid behind Twilight. Twilight stammered before answering the angry conductor’s question.
“We’re very sorry, sir. We were just practicing our shooting for our big game against Appleloosa.”
The conductor still looked upon Twilight and friends with ignited eyes. “Well no more shootin’ in here! You better hope I don’t find any major dents in these walls! You’re lucky we arrived in Appleloosa. Now ‘git!”
Swiftly, the Golden Leafs exited the freezer car while offering their apologies to the conductor. They returned to the lodging car to grab Spike and their things. After boarding off the train, the girls walked about the station, looking for a familiar face. Off in the distance, a yellow pony in a brown hat and vest started charging toward the group. When the pony reached them, everyone recognized who it was and was happy to see him. It was Applejack’s cousin Braeburn. He gave Applejack a hug and shook hooves with the others.
“Well hoooooowdy, everypony! Welcome back to AAAAAaaaaAAAAAppleloosa!”
“Howdy right back at ya, Braeburn. How y’all doin’? asked Applejack.
“Doin’ mighty fine, cousin. Now who’s ready to head into town?”
Applejack and company happily agreed and they were off on their way.
---
Strutting into town, Braeburn began talking up his plans for the evening.
“Sorry I can’t hang ‘round with you folks too long. I have a game to play tonight. I’m on the Appleloosa Black Apples, the best team in the Equestria Hockey League!”
Everyone gave a slight snicker as Applejack answered back. “Oh yeah? That’s pretty great. Say, do you reckon who y’all are playin’ tonight?”
Braeburn gave Applejack a large, smug-filled smirk. “We’re playin’ some poor expansion team who just started in the league. The somethin’ Golden Lakes, or Golden Leafs, whatever. All’s I know is that we’re gonna kick their flanks.”
The Golden Leafs all laughed at Braeburn’s oblivious remarks except for Rainbow Dash who narrowed her eyes in slight irritation. Before Rainbow could correct Braeburn, Applejack put her hoof up to Rainbow’s mouth to calm her down and to get her to play along.
“So why did y’all come to Appleloosa anyways?” Braeburn asked.
Twilight answered him. “Oh you know, for a little vacation and to get away from the snow.”
“And to visit ol’ Bloomberg. I’ve been wonderin’ how he’s been getting’ along here in Appleloosa,” Applejack said.
“He’s been great. He’s also playin’ with me tonight.”
Everyone stopped in their tracks and stared at Braeburn completely puzzled. Seeing the confusion glaring back at him, Braeburn continued.
“He’s our startin’ goalie. Boy howdy, he’s one sturdy tree! Almost nothin’ gets past him. We don’t let too many shots get to him in the first place neither. Chief Thunderhooves and Sheriff Silverstar run a pretty tight defense I’ll tell you what.”
The Golden Leafs broke out of their confusion and smiled slyly to each other as Braeburn was unknowingly handing them a full on scouting report on his team.
Rarity walked next to Braeburn and batted her eyes. “Please, do tell us more! We’re just dying to learn about the great Appleloosa Black Apples!”
“Aww shucks. Well, if y’all really want to know.”
Before Braeburn could reveal more inside information, the clock tower in the center of town struck, echoing out into the mountains in the distance.
“Oh shoot, it’s gettin’ close to game time! I gotta run. Hey, maybe y’all should come watch me! It’ll be a real hoedown tonight when we wreck the new team!”
Applejack stepped up to her cousin. “Oh, I have a feelin’ we’ll be there,” she said with a wink to her teammates who smiled back.
“Great! See y’all later then!” yelled Braeburn as he raced off.
After he had left, the Golden Leafs and Spike looked at each other and cracked up with laughter. They settled down and continued their walk through the city, discussing the valuable information Braeburn had given them. After walking a few blocks, they saw a large building looming ahead where a throng of Appleloosans were gathering in front. Upon a closer look, the Golden Leafs saw it was indeed the Black Apples’ arena, the U-Neighted Center. With a strategic advantage in their possession, they confidently strolled into the team entrance and made their way to their locker room.
---
When the Golden Leafs entered their locker room, they saw that their locker stalls were shut and had a bunch of tiny little circles sticking on them. The circles were targets Twilight had Spike install. When her teammates were questioning what was on their lockers, Twilight explained.
“Those circles are targets. I wanted to drill it into your heads that our accuracy needs to be top notch if we want to win. In order to get to your uniforms, you need to hit each target with something. A puck, a hoof, a marshmallow. Anything!”
Thrilled for a new game, Pinkie Pie leaped toward her locker and started slamming her hooves all over, trying to hit her targets. She did so successfully and was already putting on her pads. The others made it to their respective lockers and did the same. All the stalls were soon unlocked and the Golden Leafs were in uniform. Twilight reviewed with her team what Braeburn had told them and together they came up with a strategy: to find a way past the Appleloosa defense and fire away. With their strategy set and game time approaching, they filed out of the locker room and headed out to the rink.
The U-Neighted Center provided a much different atmosphere than Maredison Square Garden or Ponyville Pond. The scene resembled an old western saloon, with Black Apples fans hollering and throwing items around without restraint. The rowdiness made the arena a loud, unbearable asylum. When it was time for the Golden Leafs’ introduction, the girls had to dart around to duck objects thrown at them. The Black Apples’ introduction resulted in more yelling and gunshots being fired in the air. A stagecoach rolled its way onto the ice and came to a stop. The door was kicked open and a carpet unfurled for the incoming Black Apples players.
”Now put yer hooves together for the wildest, rootin’-tootinest team in the whole E-H-L! Heeeere’s your AAAAAaaaaaAAAAPPLELOOSA BLACK APPLES!! First, playin’ left wing, number 16, APPLE FRITTER! Playin’ at center, number 7, LITTLEEE STRONGHEART! At right wing, number 2, BRAAAAEBURRRRRN!! On defense, number 40, CHIEEEEF THUNDERHOOVES! Also on defense, the cap’n, number 11, SHERIIIIIIIFF SIIIIILLLLVERSTARRRR!! Finally, in goal, number 30, BLOOOOOOMBERG!!”
The Black Apples stepped out of the stagecoach when their name was called and skated around the ice. When Bloomberg was called, a hoist lowered Bloomberg down in front of the net. Braeburn looked over to the Golden Leafs’ lineup and nearly fell over when he saw his cousin Applejack and friends. He skated up to them, barely containing his laughter.
“Wait! You’re tellin’ me y’all are the Ponyville Golden Leafs? What a riot! I was lookin’ forward to this game already but now I’m even more excited to whoop some flank. Have a good one gals!”
It was now the Golden Leafs started to become a bit miffed at Braeburn’s arrogance. They kept to their end of the ice and skated around until the referee was ready to drop the puck. Eventually, both teams drifted to center for the opening faceoff. After Pinkie Pie signaled she was ready, the puck dropped and the Golden Leafs’ third game was underway.
---
Appleloosa controlled the puck early using a combination of adept passing and aggressive back-checking. Ponyville had a tough time getting the puck through the neutral zone because the stiff defense of Chief and Sheriff. They were either stepping up to either steal possession or block an outlet pass. After a few missed shots and a couple of saves by Pinkie, the Golden Leafs brought the puck into the Black Apples zone for the first time. Appleloosa stuck close to their pony, knowing that they could not afford to give up open shots on their inanimate goalie. At the 6 minute mark, Rainbow had the puck behind the net. Rarity and Applejack tried shaking their defenders loose for a pass but nothing was working. Chief closed in fast on Rainbow as she scrambled to find an open teammate. Seeing that all the passing lanes were closed, Rainbow skated to the side boards where Chief followed her and pinned her. Braeburn also closed in to get the puck away. Squeezed along the boards with Appleloosa fans tapping on the glass furiously, Rainbow whipped the puck between her legs, hoping it would find a teammate. Rarity saw the trickling puck coming from the boards and tried her hardest to get to it. Apple Fritter nudged her a bit as they battled toward the floating puck. Rarity got in one last shove to break away and gained control of the puck. She gave a quick glance to the goal to see Bloomberg guarding nearly every inch of netting. Despite the small holes, Rarity slammed a shot toward the stout tree goalie. The puck glanced off Bloomberg’s trunk and ricocheted just enough to catch the left post and re-direct into the net. Rarity jumped with joy as Rainbow escaped from the boards to celebrate with her. The remaining Golden Leafs joined in as the Appleloosans booed mercilessly and threw bottles toward the ice. Luckily a magical barrier had formed at the beginning of the game, bouncing the debris back to its thrower.
“Goal Ponyville. Scored by number 9, Rarity. Assisted by number 20, Rainbow Dash, and number 0, Fluttershy.”
For just the second time this season, Ponyville held the lead. Excited with their quick goal, the girls quickly set into faceoff formation with eagerness. Braeburn, standing side by side with Applejack, kept up his talk.
“Well whoooop-de-doo. Y’all think that scares us? We’ll be back, jus’ you wait.”
“Then put yer money with yer mouth is, cousin,” snorted Applejack in reply.
The puck dropped and play was back underway. With four minutes left in the period, Appleloosa tried pressuring the Ponyville defense. Apple Fritter had the puck on the left wing and shot it around the boards behind the net to Strongheart. Strongheart cycled it on around the boards to Braeburn. With Rarity on him and poking at the puck, Braeburn did a quick step to the right and curled back left, spinning away from the boards and passing Rarity. In the slot, Braeburn wound up to shoot. As the puck flew off his stick blade, Fluttershy dove right in front and blocked it. The puck skipped off to the side where Rainbow picked it up and carried it out of the Golden Leaf zone.
With the massive frame of Chief and the agility of Sheriff in front of her, Rainbow decided to speed up and split the defenders. Chief and Sheriff pinched together to cut off Rainbow but her momentum carried all three of them forward. Zooming in on Bloomberg, Rainbow released a shot. The puck hit Bloomberg straight on and bounced back to strike Rainbow in the visor. Knocked for a loop, Rainbow gave up on the play and Appleloosa brought the puck back. Apple Fritter held the puck on the wing as she waited for Sheriff to pass the blue line. She passed it toward the blue line, allowing Sheriff to step into a one-time shot. Strongheart had parked herself in front of Pinkie and lifted her stick to deflect, but she missed the angle, deflecting the puck wide. With only six seconds left to go, Fluttershy tried firing a shot all the way down the ice. The puck appeared to be on its way past Bloomberg on the lower left corner but time expired. The net budged slightly as the puck hit the back of it, but the horn had already sounded.
Down at the end of the 1st period 1-0, the Appleloosa fan base voiced their displeasure and tried again to throw objects toward the Golden Leafs. Like before, the objects bounced off the barrier and Twilight and friends entered their locker room with the lead.
---
In the locker room, the air was filled with gleeful chatter as everypony was fixing up their equipment. Applejack sat up and addressed her friends.
“Can y’all believe Braeburn? He still thinks his team is gon’ win. He’s a funny one.”
Pinkie Pie giggled. “Yeah, he’s pretty silly alright. He told us all about his team not even knowing we were the Golden Leafs! I mean, even I know not to do that!”
“Does anyone else feel a bit dirty? Like we’re cheating?” Twilight asked with a tinge of guilt in her voice.
Rainbow flew up to her. “No way! It’s not like we pressured him into talking. We’re fine!”
“Yeah, you’re right. Alright team, let’s stick to our plan and have a good second period!”
The Golden Leafs left their locker room and made it back out onto the ice. Appleloosa was already skating and waiting for them to arrive so they could start the 2nd.
---
Play was back on and Rainbow won the faceoff for her team. Twilight took the puck and passed it to Applejack who stood at the blue line. Applejack skated in to the corner and passed back to Fluttershy who now stood where Applejack was. With Strongheart charging at her, Fluttershy panicked and let off a wild shot. The puck hit Bloomberg and appeared to be headed to Sheriff but Rainbow sniffed out the angle and intercepted the rebound. Rainbow passed it right back to Fluttershy along the blue line who now had an open lane. Fluttershy took in a quick breath and shot. The puck skidded along the ice toward the lower right corner. With Apple Fritter on her, Applejack worked her way to the front of the net in case of a rebound. Unaware of the shot, Apple Fritter skated backwards into the crease trying to cover Applejack. Fluttershy’s shot knocked against Fritter’s skate and wound up in the net past Bloomberg. Applejack started cheering as she watched the puck slide in and dashed toward Fluttershy. Even though the goal light spun furiously, the Appleloosans booed heavily, and her teammates closed in and smothered her, it took Fluttershy a few seconds to register what just happened. When it finally clicked, Fluttershy flew up into the air and squealed for herself. Frustrated by the weak goal that just went in, Chief Thunderhooves rammed the boards to send a message.
”Goal Ponyville. Scored by number 0, Fluttershy. Assisted by number 20, Rainbow Dash.”
Twilight had to corral the happily bucking Fluttershy so that the referee could drop the puck. When play resumed, Ponyville had the puck again. Rarity controlled the puck in the Appleloosa zone. She was on the left faceoff circle looking for an open teammate. Rainbow zipped in and out but she was still covered. Behind the net, Chief saw Rarity’s stalling and pawed his hoof onto the ice to indicate an upcoming charge. As Rarity struggled to pass the puck off, Chief began his thunderous stride. With Rarity locked in his crosshairs, Chief Thunderhooves flattened Rarity with check fit for a steamroller. Rarity groaned in pain as her teammates tended to her and the referee blew the whistle.
“Appleloosa number 40. Two minutes for charging.”
The crowd cheered with loud applause at the hit but then soured into booing and hissing when the referee made the penalty announcement. Chief Thunderhooves chuckled as he entered the penalty box. Seeing Rarity sprawled out upon the ice awoke something within Fluttershy. Her eyes began to spark and her nostrils flared. She slowly turned toward the Black Apples penalty box where Chief was still laughing and giving hoof bumps through the glass to the fans sitting around him. Fluttershy was appalled by Chief’s lack of concern and remorse for his hit.
Under her breath, Fluttershy whispered “How dare you...you’re next.”
Braeburn skated up to Applejack to pitch in his two cents. “Whew nelly! That was a big ol’ hit wasn’t it? Hope your friend is alright. If y’all don’t watch yerselves it might be you on that ice next.”
“Would you just get on outta here?” snapped Applejack.
Braeburn gave out a laugh as he skated away. The referee called the teams together for the faceoff. Rainbow won the faceoff and it came to Twilight. Twilight shuffled the puck back and forth in front of her as the power play unit set up in their usual spots. Once her teammates were set, she passed to Rarity on the left who shoveled it to Rainbow behind the net. Sheriff and Braeburn started to close in but Rainbow noticed and pushed it to Applejack on the right wing. Applejack stepped in toward Apple Fritter in front of her and faked a shot. Fritter hit the ice to block but Applejack pulled back, skated to the side and let a shot rip. The shot was off target and deflected off of Bloomberg. The long rebound slid out of the reach of Strongheart and was back to Twilight. Behind the net, Rainbow broke away from Sheriff and circled to the front of the crease. Seeing Rainbow’s move, Twilight quickly fired the puck to her. Gliding toward the left side of the net, Rainbow picked up the puck. With a short flick of the stick, Rainbow snapped the puck past Bloomberg for a power play goal. The crowd erupted with more disdainful hollering as Chief Thunderhooves exited the penalty box. The Golden Leafs tapped Rainbow on the helmet and reset at center ice.
”Goal Ponyville. Scored by number 20, Rainbow Dash. Assisted by number 42, Twilight Sparkle.”
At the faceoff, Fluttershy locked her sight onto Chief. She didn’t look at anything else when play resumed. Ponyville won the faceoff again and brought it in on offense. Rarity received a pass from Twilight and shot but Sheriff jumped to block it into the corner. Appleloosa took control and brought it up and into the Ponyville zone. Fluttershy skated backwards, still following Chief Thunderhooves’ every stride. Braeburn took the puck down into the corner where he was met by Applejack. They tussled and pushed in the corner, fighting for the puck. Strongheart swooped in and poked the puck free toward the blue line. Sheriff received the puck and passed it along the line to Chief. It was payback time. With the fire still in her eyes, Fluttershy bolted full speed at the giant buffalo.
“THIS IS FOR WHAT YOU DID TO RARITY!”
Chief looked up to see Fluttershy charging at him which caused him to pause in disbelief. Fluttershy roared out a war cry as she flew elbow first into Chief. SLAM! The Appleloosa defender was smashed into the boards. The force of the hit and the mass of Chief Thunderhooves caused the glass to give in and shatter. Chief spilled out onto the ponies sitting in the first row as broken glass rained down after. The fans instantly stood up and collectively let out a large gasp as they witnessed the most brutal check they’ve seen so far. Fluttershy proudly strode away from the boards with a smirk on her face. The other 9 skaters stared at Fluttershy with their jaws dropped. Fluttershy hummed a sweet tune to herself as she voluntarily entered the penalty box. The referee made his announcement.
“Uh…Ponyville number 0. Two minutes for boarding?”
Fans sitting around the Ponyville penalty box angrily shook their fists at Fluttershy who kept her eyes closed and her smile beaming. Applejack was the one to skate up to Braeburn.
“How do y’all like them apples?” she said with a grin.
Braeburn shot an angry look right back. “That was a darn dirty hit, Applejack. Y’all know that. Shame on y’all.”
“Dirty schmirty. We’re still winnin’. Take that back to yer farm and buck it!”
Still irritated, Braeburn got into Applejack’s face. “At least my farm ain’t a rundown dump.”
Applejack’s eyes expanded in shock then quickly narrowed and her grin flipped into gritted teeth. “What…did…you…just…say?”
Seeing that he struck a nerve, Braeburn smiled. “You heard me. A rundown dump. ‘Tis a shame Granny Smith let the place get so bad. Maybe she should retire and sell it off to ponies who are actually good at apple gathering!”
“Oh, you little rascal!”
Before Applejack could do anything, the referee skated in between them and sent them to the faceoff circle.
The Appleloosa power play began and Sheriff had the puck at the blue line. Down a defender, Applejack took over Fluttershy’s spot on the penalty kill. Sheriff faked a shot and passed to Braeburn down in the corner. With Rarity pressing toward him, Braeburn passed to Apple Fritter who was barreling down the center. The puck found its way through a forest of skates and sticks onto Apple Fritter’s blade. Fritter shifted to the right to which Pinkie leaned but Fritter then shifted back to the left to complete the deke. With an open net, Apple Fritter slapped the puck in. The goal horn exploded throughout the rafters and the Appleloosans finally had a reason to cheer. “Chelsea Flanker” by The Foaltellis magically played in the arena as the Black Apples celebrated their power play goal.
“GOOOOOOAAAALLLL! Scored by number 17, APPLEEEE FRITTERRRRR!! Assisted by number 2, BRAEBURRRRNNNN!! And number 11, SHERIIIIFFF SIIIIILVERSTARRRRR!!”
Fluttershy left the penalty box feeling calm and relaxed. Her friends were still shocked at her rageful check and were afraid to talk to her. Fluttershy laughed at them and assured them she was feeling better.
With only thirty seconds left in the period, the puck bounced back and forth between the two teams with no shots being fired. When the second period ended, a heavy amount of insults were hurled toward the exiting Golden Leafs. They ignored the crowd’s yells and headed for the locker room.
---
During the 2nd intermission, Rainbow Dash sat next to Fluttershy and gushed about her hit on Chief. Fluttershy kept smiling and basked in Rainbow’s praise. Meanwhile, Applejack stewed angrily at her stall. She briskly reapplied tape to her stick as she grumbled to herself over Braeburn’s comments. Twilight noticed Applejack’s mood and tried talking to her.
“Is everything okay, Applejack?”
Applejack kept to her taping, not looking at Twilight once. “Sure ain’t. That Braeburn’s insultin’ my family and runnin’ his mouth. He’s gon’ get his next period. You can count on it.”
Finished with their rest, the Golden Leafs were back out on the ice for the 3rd period.
---
The 3rd period began with a flurry of physicality. Appleloosa and Ponyville exchanged hits trying to gain control of the puck. In the Ponyville zone, Apple Fritter passed the puck to Strongheart but Twilight intercepted. Twilight quickly pushed it to Applejack who was now part of a three-on-two with Rarity and Rainbow. Applejack crossed the blue line on her wing and passed to Rainbow. Sheriff lined up a check on Rainbow but she had already passed to Rarity on the left wing. Rarity was waiting for the pass and ripped a one-timer. She focused the shot up into the top left corner where it whizzed past Bloomberg’s trunk and into the net. Rarity once again jumped with exuberance for her second goal of the evening. She and Rainbow laughed together as they realized their shooting practice earlier that day had helped them greatly now.
”Goal Ponyville. Scored by number 9, Rarity. Assisted by number 20, Rainbow Dash and number 88, Applejack.
The Golden Leafs were now running away with the game. On the ensuing faceoff, Strongheart won the faceoff but the puck ended up skipping over to Fluttershy. Fluttershy passed it over to Applejack who took the puck into the Appleloosa zone. Applejack hammered a shot from the faceoff circle which bounced in off of Bloomberg. The Golden Leafs once again celebrated another goal with tons of cheer and laughter. The Appleloosan crowd moaned and ponies began filing for the exits. Only a small smattering of Black Apples fans stayed for the current 5-1 blowout.
”Goal Ponyville. Scored by number 88, Applejack. Assisted by number 0, Fluttershy.”
Greatly disgruntled by the developments of the game, Braeburn growled and formulated a plan in his head. When play resumed, Ponyville had the puck again. Rarity had the puck on the left faceoff circle and passed it to Rainbow behind the net. Rainbow saw Applejack open for a second and passed it over. Applejack retrieved the puck and skated into the slot. While Applejack wound up for a shot, Braeburn snuck up behind her and landed a devastating elbow to the back of her head. Applejack fell forward in hit her face on the ice with a thud. The referee relentlessly blew his whistle as Applejack’s friends gathered around her.
Applejack got back to her hooves and shook out of a short daze. Immediately she bolted over to Braeburn.
“Oh you wanna throw down, Braeburn? LET’S THROW DOWN!”
“BRING IT!”
Applejack and Braeburn shook off their front leg skates and helmets and began circling each other. The small Appleloosa crowd stood up and cheered for the fight that was starting. Applejack and Braeburn kept circling each other, with each pony occasionally drifting in to try a move. When Applejack moved in again, she was able to grab a hold of Braeburn’s collar and began wailing away. Braeburn punched back and the Apple fight was officially begun. Applejack landed two right hooks but Braeburn fought back and landed a stiff shot to Applejack’s cheek. They then locked legs and twisted side to side, trying to gain leverage. In a flash, Applejack built up her strength and powered Braeburn to the ice. The referee skated in to separate the fighters. Applejack skated off to the Golden Leafs’ locker room to heavy booing and hissing while Braeburn slowly drifted off toward the Black Apples’ locker room.
Applejack’s teammates were not sure what just happened and didn’t know what to do next. Twilight, Rarity, and Fluttershy expressed their concern over Applejack while Rainbow was giddy and overexcited over the whole ordeal. With only a few minutes left, time played out and Ponyville notched another goal. Rainbow had the puck and deked out both Chief and Sheriff. Not extremely confident about her shot, she kicked the puck back to Twilight who waited at the blue line to fire a shot. The puck glanced off Bloomberg and pounded the back of the net. Twilight hopped about happily as she struck the final blow of the tension filled game.
The puck dropped again and for the Golden Leafs, it was now a waiting game.
0:03
0:02
0:01
0:00
BZZZZZZZT
When the clock struck 0:00 and the final buzzer rung out, the Golden Leafs whipped their skates and sticks up into the air in pure bliss. The skaters dashed toward their net and mobbed Pinkie Pie to celebrate their very first victory. The leftover Black Apples fans booed and left the arena as the Black Apples skated toward their locker room with their heads hanging in disappointment. Each Golden Leaf shared a hug and a headbutt before making their way to the locker room.
---
Upon entering the locker room, the Golden Leafs’ whooping and laughing quickly halted. Braeburn and Applejack were in the center of the room facing each other. The team suddenly grew concerned and stepped in.
Twilight rushed up to the two Apple kin. “Oh no, not again! Please stop fighting! The game’s over now. There’s no need for violence.”
Braeburn and Applejack looked at Twilight and shared a laugh.
“It’s okay, sugarcube. We just had a tiny scuffle on the ice out there. We talked and made up while y’all finished up.”
Braeburn put his leg around Applejack. “Even though we might argue and fight, at the end of the day we’re still family.”
Twilight and the others let out a sigh of relief. Braeburn apologized to Applejack and her team for his actions earlier and congratulated them on their first win on his way out. After Braeburn left, Pinkie Pie retrieved seven bottles of cream soda and handed them out to her teammates and Spike. They knocked their bottles together while Twilight started a toast.
“To the Ponyville Golden Leafs! May tonight be the first of many more victories to come! To good friends, teamwork, and having fun!”
“Here here!” everyone shouted as they clanged bottles. Pinkie shook hers up and popped the cork to spray it at everyone. Rarity did the same and soon all seven of them were laughing and splashing each other with cream soda. Twilight and friends cleaned themselves and the locker room up before leaving the U-Neighted Center.
---
The girls and Spike boarded the last train to Ponyville late into the night. The train rumbled on toward home as the Golden Leafs slept and replayed the night’s victorious game in their dreams. When everyone awoke from their exhausted but peaceful slumber, the morning sun was waiting to greet them. After drowsily grabbing their belongings, the Golden Leafs trudged out from the Ponyville station. Even though it was the morning, Twilight and company couldn’t believe what they saw before their eyes.
With congratulatory signs and banners, a large number of Ponyvillians gathered at the train station to welcome their hockey heroes back home. Ponies cheered and hollered as the Golden Leafs thanked each and every one of their fans with hoofshakes and autographs. The warm reception brushed the fires of confidence and pride within Twilight and her friends. With their hockey future shining brighter than ever, they happily trotted to Twilight’s treehouse to go over the week’s schedule.
When everyone reached the treehouse, a strange basket was sitting on the doorstep. Twilight curiously picked it up and inspected it. Pinkie Pie noticed a note tag hanging from the handle and alerted Twilight. Twilight snapped the tag off and read it.
”Dear Ponyville Golden Leafs,
Congratulations on your first win last night. Enjoy it now while you still can. See you losers in six weeks.
Love,
The Great and Powerful Trixie”
In the basket were six small bouquets of bright golden flowers. Rarity’s eyes sparkled at the shining plants and gladly took one. Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy quickly grabbed theirs and admired their smell and color. Twilight was skeptical at first but eventually accepted the gift.
“I wonder why Trixie went through the trouble to send us this,” said Twilight thinking out loud.
“Who cares, darling? These flowers are just divine!” replied Rarity.
Twilight took a closer look at the flowers and gave them a quick smell. “I don’t know, something about this just doesn’t feel right.”
“Whatever. I’m just glad to be home and I can get some more sleep,” piped up Rainbow.
As Rainbow went to fly away, Twilight grabbed her by the tail. “Don’t leave just yet, we need to plan for practice and our next game. We have the Fillydelphia Flyers coming here next.”
After the girls discussed their schedule for the week, they each departed for their respective homes. Twilight placed her golden flowers in a vase and set the vase on the table in the common room. Still exhausted from playing and the traveling, Twilight and Spike went upstairs and resumed their sleep.
The Ponyville Golden Leafs finally crossed their first hurdle, winning an EHL game. Twilight and her friends were able to experience the joy and satisfaction that comes with victory and now having tasted it, they would begin thirsting for more. With hard work and perseverance, the victory of the previous night will certainly not be the last.
Back in the common room, a cold breeze blew in through a slightly opened window. The wind brushed against the golden flowers and gently rustled them. Large golden flakes peeled away from the plant and fell to the table. Patches of light blue peered through the chipped golden façade. After another breeze swirled through the room, the flowers that were once a brilliant shade of gold were now a shade of blue. A familiar, treacherous shade of blue.
Poison Joke.
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars from Ponyville @ Appleloosa
* Rainbow Dash (PGL)
** Fluttershy (PGL)
*** Pinkie Pie (PGL)
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
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Canterlot 5, MANEHATTAN 3
Cloudsdale 4, FILLYDELPHIA 1
EHL Standings (W-L)
---
Appleloosa 2-1
Cloudsdale 2-1
Manehattan 2-1
Fillydelphia 1-2
Canterlot 1-2
Ponyville 1-2
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XFizzle
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1005
| 6 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-24T21:55:35+00:00
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2011-09-24T21:55:35+00:00
| 3,022 |
Equestria Hockey League Part VI – Legion of Bloom
by XFizzle
Twenty-four hours removed from the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ first victory over the Appleloosa Black Apples, Twilight Sparkle awoke to begin a new day. Twilight slinked to the side of the bed and put all her hooves to the floor. After a big yawn and stretch, she made her way down the stairs a bit dazed. With eyes half shut, Twilight landed in the common room and surveyed the area. She saw some books lying askew on shelves, the curtains ruffled and swaying in the morning breeze, and a pile of golden flakes on the table. Unmotivated to clean up her living room, Twilight turned around to head back upstairs when a cold splash of fear sent a shockwave throughout her body. She ran to the table and saw the dangerous poison joke plant swaying innocently as if it was mocking her. Twilight’s mind began to spin like a top as she inspected the golden flakes, panicking about what joke might have befallen her this time. Twilight ran upstairs to the mirror to check her horn. Looking at her reflection, Twilight didn’t notice anything peculiar or different. She let out a sigh of relief until boisterous knocking on the door downstairs grabbed her attention. Upon opening the door, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie leapt into the treehouse and mobbed Twilight, sending them all falling to the floor with a thud. After getting up, the ponies began to panic.
“I knew it! I just knew it! Trixie would never be that kind to send us flowers! Oh what a wretched trick!” cried Rarity.
Rainbow flew up into the air “You didn’t know anything, Rarity! Twilight was the one who thought it was suspicious! What are we going to do? WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DOOOO?!?”
“Oh no! What’s happened to us this time? I hope I didn’t lose my ability to talk! It would just horrible if I couldn’t talk again! I remember last time when we were infected by the poison joke. It was sooooo bad! My tongue was all puffy and blue and I couldn’t say anything!” shrieked Pinkie.
“Pinkie! You are talking! Calm down!” yelled Twilight.
Hoping to ease everybody’s nerves, Applejack chimed in. “Well this time I ain’t tiny. From the looks of it, it seems we ain’t affected. Rainbow’s wings are fine, Pinkie can talk, Rarity’s mane is still the same, and Twilight’s horn isn’t floppin’ around.”
Everyone took a deep breath of relaxation at Applejack’s assessment. Twilight walked over to her bookshelf to begin looking for her copy of Supernaturals: Natural Remedies and Cure-Alls that are Simply Super. “Perhaps Applejack is right girls. Maybe the poison joke didn’t work this time.”
Fluttershy nestled herself down onto a pillow. “We will be alright girls. Now let’s all quiet down and enjoy a nice rest,” she said in her normal, soft voice.
“NO! NO! NO! NO! NO!”
Fluttershy flew up and squeaked in fright as Twilight flung books from her book shelves. “It’s not here! I can’t find my book!”
The others gasped and quickly re-entered panic mode. Before the craziness got out of hand, Twilight stopped her searching and addressed her friends.
“As of right now, we don’t know if the poison joke has affected us or not. I say we all relax and let’s have our practice after lunch as scheduled.”
Applejack shook her head in agreement. “I agree. Maybe we missed the bullet and nothin’ will come over us.”
Rarity, Pinkie, and Rainbow nodded hesitantly, although still showing signs of nervousness and fright. Twilight used her magic to dispense of the poison joke plant and sent her friends along their way.
---
It was practice time as the Golden Leafs met up at Ponyville Pond. Afraid of the poison joke’s effects, each pony slowly put on their uniforms and gingerly stepped out onto the ice. When it appeared nothing harmful or unfortunate was going to happen, the girls let out a sigh of relief and begun their practice routine. After taking their normal skating laps and going through their stretches, Twilight spoke up.
“Okay Golden Leafs. Our next opponent is the Fillydelphia Flyers. They’re known for being a skilled, but dirty team. We have to be sharp and poised if we’re going to win. They have a set of very talented twins who we’ll need to keep in check; Caramela and Caramelo, the two wingers.”
Rainbow raised her hoof. Annoyed by this, Twilight promptly interrupted. “Rainbow, why is it that you’re ALWAYS the first pony to raise her hoof after I go over something? Can’t you just listen to what I have to say and accept it?”
“Oh, I wasn’t going to say anything. I was just stretching some more.”
Twilight face-hoofed and continued on. “So today we’re going to practice defensive assignments and covering the opponent. Using my magic, I’ll have these pony-sized mannequins play like the Flyers do and we’ll go from there. Any questions?” Twilight directed an intense stare at Rainbow. Rainbow pretended to raise her hoof but stopped and shook her head no.
With a blow of the whistle, Twilight’s mannequins appeared out of thin air and began to skate like real players. The puck dropped in front of the center dummy and play was on. Without waiting, Rainbow Dash flew at her opposing player. When she came in closer, her wings suddenly sprang up and redirected her away causing her to miss the dummy.
Rainbow screeched to a stop and turned around toward her teammates. “What? What just happened?”
“Your wings popped out and forced you away!” gasped Rarity.
The fake opponent passed the puck to the left wing dummy which stood in front of Applejack. Sensing a good opportunity for a check, Applejack started her stride. Even though Applejack’s legs were moving, she was skating slower than a snail. She clenched her teeth and tried powering her legs more but didn’t move any faster.
“Now what in tarnation?! I cain’t move at all! My legs are churnin’ but I ain’t burnin’!”
“It’s the poison joke! We’re doooooomed!” yelled Pinkie from out her goalie mask.
With uneasiness growing inside her, Twilight naively tried to dismiss it. “Uhh maybe her skates are just dull?”
The right wing mannequin zipped across the middle of the zone and passed off to the left wing dummy. Rarity attempted to skate closer but as soon as she took her first step, her legs gave out from under her and she tripped face first. Rarity slowly got up and cried.
“Oh it’s no use! We are infected! I don’t know what happened to my legs! We’re ruined!”
Again, Twilight tried to dismiss it. “Oh Rarity, you were just clumsy. Get back up and you’ll be fine.”
Now standing, Rarity tried a few quick strides but quickly tumbled back down to the ice. She remained sprawled out on the ice and began weeping.
The left wing dummy passed over to the center dummy who was behind the net. Fluttershy quickly turned around to go cover the puck holder. As Fluttershy skated toward the center dummy, her helmet expanded in size and blocked her sight. Fluttershy screamed as she kept skating blindly toward the back of the net. The center dummy dodged the incoming Fluttershy and passed the puck around the boards. Visually impaired, Fluttershy rammed into the side post of the net and knocked Pinkie over. Pinkie helped Fluttershy up and turned to Twilight.
“Now do you believe Twilight? Now do you believe that…we’re dooooooooomed?!”
“Uhh maybe her helmet straps need to be tightened? I’ll get Spike right on that.”
“TWILIGHT!” everypony yelled.
Twilight stammered to defend her notion. “But we don’t know if Pinkie or I are infected yet. We could get by with a few of you having equipment issues.”
By this time, the puck was back on the stick of the left wing dummy. The dummy wound up for a shot but the erratically skating Rainbow was able to swoop by and alter the shot. The puck weakly skidded along the ice and ended up on Twilight’s stick. As Twilight shot the puck away, her stick nearly crumbled inside her mouth. The wooden stick softened into rubber and flopped at the puck. Twilight looked down in disbelief at the center dummy picked up the puck and took it to the net. The mannequin flicked a quick shot right at Pinkie. She stuck her glove out for the save but couldn’t catch it. Like a slippery bar of soap, the puck squirted out of Pinkie’s glove and landed next to her. The right wing dummy was waiting there at the doorstep to put in the rebound. With that goal, all the Golden Leafs turned to Twilight with a mix of despair and irritation on their faces.
Twilight sighed in defeat. “I guess we are infected by the poison joke. But how are we going to get a cure in time? We play Fillydelphia tonight!”
“We gotta go to Zecora’s! She knows how to fix us up. We gotta go now if we wanna be ready in time!” said Applejack as she began taking off her uniform.
Quickly following Applejack’s lead, the Golden Leafs rushed off to the locker room to change before heading out toward the Everfree Forest.
---
Swiftly galloping through the Everfree Forest, the Golden Leafs arrived at Zecora’s house. More panic swept over them as they saw there was no light shining from inside.
“Look at the door! A note!” said Pinkie anxiously.
Twilight ran up to the door to read the note.
”If it is help that you seek, I’ll be back in about a week. I am off to Canterlot with my latest remedy invention. To present and sell at the Equestria Pharmeceutical Convention.
- Zecora
Immediately Rarity and Rainbow hugged each other in a panic. “We’re dooooomed!”
“Hey! That’s my line!” yelled Pinkie.
The ponies began arguing and freaking out. Twilight tried to get in between to calm her friends down but was drowned out by their anguish and sorrow. With horn glowing, Twilight shut her friends’ mouths like zippers.
“We don’t need Zecora! I think I still remember the recipe from last time. Let’s go back to the treehouse, make the remedy, then we’ll be on our way.”
Staring at Twilight, the others closed their eyes to show calmness. As soon as Twilight unzipped their mouths open, everypony was back to arguing and yelling. Not affording to waste any more time, Twilight galloped off to which the others followed.
---
Back at the treehouse, Twilight furiously whipped together the remedy with Spike’s help. The other ponies were sleeping around the living room thanks to a much needed lullaby sung by Fluttershy when they arrived. Spike’s tiny arms weren’t enough to swirl the potion so Twilight nudged him aside to take over.
“Sorry, Spike. I’ve got to get this remedy done quickly. Oh I hope I remembered the right ingredients and amounts!”
“What about your copy of the Supernaturals book?”
“I don’t know what happened to it. I looked everywhere and couldn’t find it.”
“Did you try asking Aloe and Lotus at the spa?”
Completely forgetting the spa ponies had asked for Zecora’s recipe, Twilight smacked herself with her hoof. “No, but there’s no time now. I have to finish this!”
“You know you could’ve asked Apple Bloom too, she went and gathered the ingredients for Zecora.”
Twilight spun the stirring stick faster. “You’re not helping Spike!”
“I just calls it hows I sees it Twilight,” said Spike in a fake tough guy voice as he walked away.
A few more twirls and the remedy was done. Twilight jumped inside the pot. She paused to wait for it to kick in but remembered it would be back on the ice where they would notice if it worked. One by one, Twilight rushed around the living room waking up the others and getting them to bathe in their share of the remedy. After drying off, the Golden Leafs left for Ponyville Pond.
---
While walking toward the players’ entrance, the Golden Leafs noticed a crowd of ponies standing around a booth in front of the arena. Upon further inspection, they saw the same golden flowers that had arrived in Trixie’s gift basket. With a gasp and an angry growl, the Golden Leafs trotted up to the booth. It was a flower shop selling various plants, including roses, lilies, daises, and the golden flowers. Rarity and Twilight used their magic to pull the golden flowers off the cart and beat them against the ground. The ponies around the cart fled in shock as the Golden Leafs thwarted the new batch of golden plants. Before Twilight and company could leave, three voices erupted from a distance and grew louder.
“What’s the big idea?”
“Yeah! What are you doing with our flowers?”
“Get out of here you meanies!”
It was the Flower Sisters; Rose, Lily, and Daisy. They galloped up to the Golden Leafs in a huff. Rarity walked up to them and pointed to the golden flowers.
“These flowers of yours contain poison joke! They look gold, but it chips off to reveal its true self!”
“How dare you! We would never sell poison joke!” said Rose with a scowl.
“Oh yeah? We’ll see about that!” yelled Rainbow as she flew up to Rose.
Lily walked to the beaten golden flowers and picked it up by her teeth. She approached the Golden Leafs and spit them out toward them, to which the Leafs repelled in fright.
“See? We told you. They’re just our special species of golden flowers our grandmother taught us how to grow. You owe us big time!” squealed Daisy.
Rainbow turned her attention to Daisy. “We don’t owe you anything! You-“
Twilight yanked Rainbow by the tail to bring her down. With extreme guilt, Twilight apologized to the Flower Sisters.
“We’re deeply sorry ladies. It’s just that we were given a bouquet of those golden flowers which turned out to be poison joke. Because of the poison joke, we can’t play hockey very well. We’re sorry to have destroyed your work and we’ll pay you back.”
“We don’t want your money!” said Rose. “We’ll see you out on the ice!”
Turning their noses up into the air, the Flower Sisters closed up their cart and walked to the visitor’s entrance to the arena.
The Golden Leafs watched on as their opponents entered the arena. Out of nowhere, Apple Bloom appeared and happily skipped in behind the Flower Sisters. Applejack saw her little sister and was immediately confused and concerned.
“What in tarnation…APPLE BLOOM! Y’all get back here…ya’hear!”
Apple Bloom didn’t hear her sister’s call and continued inside. Applejack tried yelling again but it was no use. The Golden Leafs reached their entrance and made their way to the locker room.
---
Inside the locker room, the Golden Leafs were finishing putting on their gear. An aura of uncertainty and hesitation filled the air as the girls wondered if Twilight’s potion was going to rid them of their hockey-related ailments. Fluttershy checked her helmet inside and out for any funny business. She put it on like normal and it fit perfectly. The two minute warning horn buzzed inside the arena, prompting Twilight to address her team.
“Alright girls. We won’t know if the poison joke still affects us until we step out on that ice. If there’s still some lingering misfortune, then try as hard as you can to overcome your issue. We’ll have to learn to play through this adversity.”
Rainbow began to raise her hoof until she remembered what Twilight told her at practice. Instead, she just blurted out. “What’s adversity?”
“A disadvantage! Now let’s get out there and do our best!”
Somewhat inspired but mostly apprehensive, the Golden Leafs took to the ice.
---
The Ponyville fans were much more vocal and supportive for the second home game since the Golden Leafs were coming off their first victory. A loud “GO LEAFS GO!” chant broke out as the lights went down and the introductions began. Spike introduced the Fillydelphia Flyers first.
The forwards for Fillydelphia from left wing to center to right wing were #33 Caramela, #14 Rose, and #22 Caramelo. Fillydelphia’s defense consisted of the remaining Flower Sisters, #3 Daisy and #20 Lily. Their goalie, the third and final Cutie Mark Crusader the Golden Leafs will have faced, was #32 Apple Bloom. Hoping to not only to earn her cutie mark but to prove herself to Applejack, Apple Bloom prepped inside the crease with a purpose. She was more focused and determined than her fellow Crusaders during their performances against the Golden Leafs.
Quickly following the Flyers’ emergence onto the ice were the Golden Leafs’ introductions. Spike repeated his script from the home opener to lead each Golden Leaf onto the ice. The fans roared louder as each skater was announced. Applejack looked toward the Flyers’ end to see Apple Bloom hopping around the crease, practicing her save maneuvers. Applejack swiftly skated down to her with slightly angry visage.
“Apple Bloom! You take off them goalie pads right now you hear me?!”
“I cain’t Applejack! I’m the Flyers’ goalie! I’ve been playin’ for them for a few games now!”
“Then how come I ain’t seen you leave the farm?”
“Ya know all them visits to Aunt and Uncle Orange’s that Granny Smith and Big Macintosh have been tellin’ you about? Hehe.”
“What the hay? Granny and Mac haven’t told me anythin’.”
Before Applejack could go on, the referee skated over to direct Applejack back to the Ponyville side of the ice. Apple Bloom lifted up her mask and gave Applejack a wink and stuck out her tongue. Both teams set up at the faceoff circle to begin. With the Flower Sisters’ anger from the pre-game altercation, Applejack’s confusion toward Apple Bloom, and the looming uncertainty about the effectiveness of Twilight’s poison joke remedy, the puck dropped to begin the game.
---
Fillydelphia won the opening faceoff and the Golden Leafs retreated back into their zone, afraid to challenge the Flyer forwards in fear of the poison joke. Daisy passed to Caramelo who took it into the offensive end. Caramelo whipped the puck around the boards to Caramela who was waiting for it. The Golden Leafs collapsed into their penalty kill set-up, allowing the Flyers to pass back and forth and around. Tired of sitting back and letting the Flyers buzz around them, Twilight stepped over to battle Caramela for the puck. After a few pokes and jabs, Twilight won control of the puck and attempted to pass. As Twilight nudged her head to pass, her stick softened up again. The now rubber stick flopped and only pushed the puck a few feet forward. Lily noticed Twilight’s struggle and stepped up to steal the puck back. Lily zipped a pass over to Caramelo on the right wing. Caramelo stalled as his sister circled around Fluttershy and broke open in the slot. Caramelo flicked a pass to the center where Caramela one-timed it on net. The puck was too quick for Pinkie as it clanged the bottom of the crossbar and ended up in the net. The Caramel twins met behind the net to celebrate while the Golden Leafs drifted toward Twilight in frustration.
”Fillydelphia goal scored by number 33 Caramela! Assisted by number 22 Caramelo and number 20 Lily.”
“Ugh! The potion didn’t work! Great job Twilight!” Rainbow sneered.
Applejack tapped Rainbow on the helmet. “Chill out Rainbow. I didn’t see y’all try to help!”
“We’re doooooooomed!” yelled Pinkie from the crease.
Twilight looked away from her teammates. “I’m sorry everypony. I thought I remembered enough of the recipe. If we lose, I’ll take the blame.”
“It’s okay, dear. We’re a team so if we lose, it will be all our faults. Especially Rainbow’s,” said Rarity as she skated up to Twilight to console her.
Rainbow stepped toward Rarity with nostrils flared. “Hey!”
The referee approached the girls and directed them to center ice for the faceoff. Fillydelphia had the puck once again and entered the Ponyville zone. Rose carried the puck in through the neutral zone and looked for an open teammate. Rainbow was done being hesitant and skated over to try to steal the puck. As Rainbow approached, Rose skated toward the right boards. Rose passed the puck back to the blue line to Daisy which made Rainbow change her direction. However, Rainbow’s wings popped out and kept her drifting toward Rose. Both Rainbow and Rose yelled as they crashed into the glass together. The referee blazed over with whistle chirping. The Ponyville crowd began booing as the referee made the penalty announcement.
“Ponyville number 20, two minutes for interference.”
Frustrated, Rainbow pushed Rose off of her and skated to the penalty box. The Fillydelphia power play soon began and they peppered shots on Pinkie. Due to Pinkie’s slippery pads, the puck squirted back to Fillydelphia after each attempt. Caramela had the puck on the left wing boards looking to make a play. Fluttershy skated toward her but quickly lost sight as her helmet dropped over her face. Caramela stepped aside as Fluttershy crashed into the boards and passed it over to Daisy on the blue line. Daisy slapped a shot on net, through the Golden Leafs’ box. As the puck flew toward the net, Rose peeled around from behind the net to the center and tipped the puck in flight. Pinkie shifted across the crease but didn’t plan on the redirection. The puck pounded the back of the net for the Fillydelphia power play goal.
”Fillydelphia power play goal scored by number 14, Rose! Assisted by number 33 Caramelo and number 3 Daisy!”
A chorus of booing rung out into the arena air as the Flyers converged upon Rose to cheer for their goal. Twilight received another angry glare from Rainbow who exited the penalty box. Twilight could only look down in response.
Play was back on and finally Ponyville had the puck. Despite her floppy stick, Twilight was able to push the puck to Rarity on the left wing. Rarity entered the zone and tried with all her might to stay balanced and skate down into the corner. It was to no avail as Lily skated around and poked the puck away. As Rarity began to give chase, she fell forward and caught Lily’s back skate, causing her to fall. The referee held his hoof up and blew the whistle when Rainbow touched the puck. Rarity got up from the ice and stumbled toward the penalty box while pouting.
“Ponyville number 9, two minutes for tripping.”
The other Golden Leafs threw up their front legs in frustration as they found themselves back on the penalty kill. Fillydelphia won the faceoff and went back to work passing around the Golden Leafs’ formation. Daisy passed along the blue line to Lily who passed off to Caramela on the left wing. Caramela cycled behind the net where Twilight skated to cut her off. Caramela skated side by side with Twilight behind the net toward the corner. Rose bolted through the center and tapped her stick for Caramella. Caramela scooted the puck between her legs toward Rose who was open to Pinkie’s right. Fluttershy approached her but was blinded again, skating wildly toward the net. Seeing Fluttershy coming up on Rose, Caramelo sprinted to the other side of the net and called for the puck. Rose flicked it through the crease, out and away from Pinkie’s poke check attempt. The puck arrived right to Caramelo who slammed it in. It was now becoming a familiar sight; the Flyers celebrating a goal, a Golden Leaf dejectedly exiting the penalty box, and the crowd voicing their displeasure.
”Fillydelphia power play goal, scored by number 33, Caramelo! Assisted by number 14, Rose, and number 22, Caramela!”
The Golden Leafs were quickly becoming discouraged. They sadly drifted over for a new faceoff and lost it again. Luckily, there were only a few seconds left in the period. The final horn for the first period sounded like temporary relief for Ponyville as they were outscored, outshot, and outskilled the 1st period.
Amidst heavy booing, the Golden Leafs retreated to their locker room.
---
Back in the locker room, the mood was grim and deflating. Each pony kept to themselves, especially Twilight who was feeling the weight of guilt and failure pushing upon her shoulders. Seeing the gloomy disposition of her teammates, Applejack decided to take over the pep talk.
“We need ta’ stop feelin’ sorry for ourselves and get back ta’ business. Sure it ain’t lookin’ pretty out there right now but we still have the talent to get back in this thing! We just need to focus harder to overcome the poison joke. I want each and every one of y’all to stand up, look me in the eye, and promise me your best effort this period!”
Applejack stood in front of Rainbow. Rainbow stared back unenthused and stuck her tongue out. Applejack narrowed her eyes and delivered a headbutt to her friend. Rainbow reeled from the hit and promised Applejack her best effort. Going down the line, the rest of the Golden Leafs made their promise. Twilight stood up and flashed a smile.
“Thanks, Applejack.”
“No problem, Twi. We’ll get through this.”
With their mood a little less dour, the Golden Leafs trotted out for the 2nd period.
---
The 2nd period started much better for the Golden Leafs. Rainbow won the faceoff to Fluttershy who passed to Applejack entering the zone. Applejack, despite her slow skating, endured a check and kept control of the puck. She went down into the corner with Caramela right on her. Rainbow darted back and forth toward them and grabbed the puck. Rainbow’s wings pushed her in all different directions which threw off the Fillydelphia defense. Rainbow was able to fire off Ponyville’s first shot which was caught by a leaping Apple Bloom. Apple Bloom gave the puck off to Rose who skated up the center. Rarity veered over to challenge Rose and was stumbling along beside her. As Rarity poked at the puck, her legs gave out. She was able to dive away from Rose without touching her. Rose noticed Rarity’s fall and fell herself, acting like she was tripped. The referee blew the whistle and skated over toward the two fallen ponies.
“Fillydelphia, number 14, two minutes for embellishment.”
The Ponyville crowd cheered as Rose angrily stood up and argued the call. The referee pointed toward the penalty box and Rose skated to it, still arguing. The Golden Leafs caught a break and were about to begin their first power play of the evening. Rainbow won the ensuing faceoff and pushed it to Twilight. Twilight quickly got to her spot along the blue line and passed over to Fluttershy before her stick turned to mush. Fluttershy watched as her teammates struggled to get to their positions so she fired at the net. Rainbow’s wings propelled her into the path of the flying puck. Without noticing the puck, Rainbow’s skate deflected it up into the corner of the net where Apple Bloom was too short to jump up and reach. The goal horn blared out and the goal light flickered catching Rainbow off guard. She jumped when she realized the goal and was quickly mobbed by her teammates.
”GOOOAAALLL!! On the power play, number 20, Rainbow Dash! Assisted by number 0, Fluttershy, and number 42, Twilight Sparkle!”
Ponyville was finally on the board and their fans gave out a rare cheer. Rose stormed out of the penalty box as the teams drifted in for the faceoff. Fillydelphia won the faceoff and were in Ponyville’s zone. After a few shots on Pinkie, Fluttershy was able to shoot the puck out to Rainbow. Fillydelphia ramped up their physicality and were soon hitting any Golden Leaf who even sniffed the puck. This new strategy overwhelmed Ponyville because they did not have the power or the control to hit back due to the poison joke. Fillydelphia had the puck back in the Golden Leaf zone and were firing away.
With nearly a minute left in the 2nd period, a shot on Pinkie ricocheted all the way down the center of the ice. Applejack had a head start and tried skating after it. Soon both teams were on her tail trying to get the puck. Rose caught up to Applejack and sneakily dug a knee into her side, knocking Applejack off track. Applejack spun into the boards while Rose sprinted back toward the Ponyville zone. Rose was able to deke out Fluttershy and danced around Twilight and her flopping stick. With a head fake, Rose caught Pinkie out of position and drilled the puck into the top left corner for the unassisted goal.
”Goal Fillydelphia! Scored unassisted by number 14, Rose!
All the momentum the Golden Leafs had built up with their power play goal quickly disintegrated. Now down 4-1, they waited for the last fifteen seconds of the 2nd period to run out so they could regroup one last time.
On cue, the horn sounded and a groan rang out from the Golden Leafs faithful. It was time to get back to the drawing board and figure out a way to rise above the poison joke and the Flyers.
---
Twilight and friends gathered together to devise a strategy that would help them get back into the game.
“How about we whip up some baked bads and send them over to their locker room? I love baking! Applejack, you can help me again!” Pinkie suggested.
Twilight dismissed Pinkie’s idea. “Nah, that’s not going to work. How about we play bad on purpose so it counteracts with the poison joke? Thus, we’ll be good again!”
As the Golden Leafs strategized, the doors to the locker room burst open. A brown hooded pony rushed into the room with a bottle hanging from her neck. With a flip of her hood, the pony was revealed to be a zebra. Zecora had returned and was panting with exhaustion. The Golden Leafs’ eyes lit up in extreme delight as they ran to meet her.
“A cry I heard, from you pony folk, about the troubles you received from the poison joke. I was made aware by your dragon friend, so I left to put your strife to an end.”
Twilight smiled at Spike and gave him a playful nudge. Zecora distributed her remedy out to everypony as she continued on. The Golden Leafs chugged down the potion and were immediately energized.
“Do you like it? My new medicine drink? It works faster than you can blink. Off I’ll go with no need to thank. Now get out there and kick some flank!”
In unison, Twilight and friends shouted their thanks to the departing Zecora. They stood up with immense confidence bubbling up inside them. Anxious, they galloped to the rink for the start of the 3rd period.
---
Fillydelphia and Ponyville met at center ice for the faceoff. Rainbow and Rose tied up each other with the puck at their hooves. Applejack, in a full, swift stride, swept up the puck and took it into the Fillydelphia zone. Rainbow sprinted straight down the center, wings staying in place. Applejack sniped the pass through Caramela’s legs onto Rainbow’s stick. Rainbow dangled around a diving Lily and entered the crease. Rainbow skidded to stop, spraying ice flakes into Apple Bloom’s mask. Apple Bloom let out a “HEY!” as Rainbow pounded the puck in the net for a very quick goal.
”GOOOAAALLL! Scored by number 20, Rainbow Dash! Assisted by number 88, Applejack!”
Rainbow glided around the net, wildly celebrating as she was no longer under the annoying hold of the poison joke. The crowd sprung to life and cheered the latest goal as the Golden Leafs celebrated at center ice. A loud “GO LEAFS GO!” chant broke out again as the teams lined up for the faceoff. Rainbow won the puck and kicked it to Fluttershy. Fluttershy, able to see clearly, passed the puck to Rarity along the boards. Rarity skated down toward the net but was cut off by Daisy. Rarity spun back around and saw Twilight open at the blue line. Rarity slapped the puck to Twilight who waited for a play to develop. Applejack, who was covered behind the net by Caramela, quickly dashed to the faceoff circle. Twilight snapped a pass to Applejack. With a hard slap, Applejack fired on net. Apple Bloom reached her glove hoof up to catch it, but the force of the shot propelled her into the net. In pain, Apple Bloom dropped the puck inside the net for another Ponyville goal.
Louder cheers exploded from the stands as Ponyville fought back to a 4-3 deficit. Applejack greeted her teammates and exchanged helmet bumps as the goal horn overpowered the crowd. In the Fillydelphia net, Apple Bloom shook her glove off and was holding her hoof with tears welling up in her eyes. Applejack saw this and briskly skated over to her.
Apple Bloom looked up at Applejack and stopped her sniffling. “That didn’t hurt! That was…nothin’!”
Applejack smiled down at Apple Bloom and planted a kiss on her injured hoof. “It’ll feel better now.”
“Thanks, sis,” said Apple Bloom with a smile and her tears rolling away.
”GOOOAAAALLL!! Scored by number 88, Applejack! Assisted by number 42, Twilight Sparkle! And number 9, the beautiful and elegant Rarity!”
Applejack regrouped with her team and awaited the faceoff. Now a one goal game, the buzz returned to the atmosphere. The flurry of quick goals revived the crowd and now there were yelling and chanting. The puck dropped again and Fillydelphia finally pushed the puck into the Ponyville end. With the puck dumped into the corner, Twilight went after it and arrived before Rose. They fought along the boards until Twilight kicked it free along the boards toward Rarity. Rarity grabbed the puck and headed up the ice. Afraid of another Golden Leafs rush, Caramelo skated in toward Rarity. Leading with his knee, Caramelo landed a crushing hit. Rarity fell to the ice in a heap. Caramelo quickly skated off but was caught by the referee.
“Fillydelphia penalty, number 33, two minutes for roughing!”
The crowd cheered wildly as Caramelo sheepishly entered the penalty box. The fans sitting around the box taunted the Flyers right winger as the Golden Leafs began a very crucial power play. Rainbow won the puck to Twilight who passed to Fluttershy while the others got into position. Fluttershy passed to Rarity on the left wing who passed the Rainbow behind the net. Rainbow passed back to Rarity who swung it over to Twilight. Twilight wound up to shoot, but Rose dove to knock it away with her stick. Rose quickly got up and took the puck for a shorthanded breakaway. Pinkie skated up to cut down Rose’s angle. With Rose closing in and Pinkie drifting back, the crowd stood up to watch. Rose tried a deke but Pinkie stayed still. Running out of room, Rose fired a shot toward the top corner. Pinkie raised her blocker hoof and knocked the puck off to the corner. A loud cheer exploded after Pinkie’s save as Twilight retrieved the puck. Another “GO LEAFS GO!” chant echoed to the rafters as Twilight carried the puck down the center herself. Seeing the Flyers defense sagging back deep in their zone, Twilight stepped over the blue line and fired a shot with all her strength. Like a bullet, the puck zinged off the bottom edge of the crossbar and landed in behind Apple Bloom who turned around in disbelief.
”POWER PLAY GOOOOOAAAAALLLL!! Scored by number 42, Twilight Sparkle! Assisted by number 33, Pinkie Pie!
Twilight was bowled over by her friends in the corner as the arena hit a fever pitch. The Golden Leafs valiantly fought back to force a 4-4 tie. Caramelo slammed his stick on the ice upon leaving the box and broke it. The “GO LEAFS GO!” chant was louder than ever as both teams reset at center ice for the faceoff. Only one minute remained. Fillydelphia all wore a scowl and gnashed their teeth in determination to take the lead back. The puck dropped and Fillydelphia took control. Daisy dumped the puck into the corner and Rose chased after it with fury. Fluttershy drifted toward the puck but Rose thundered in to take it. Caramela circled along the left wing boards but was covered closely by Rarity. Thirty seconds left. Rose fought off Fluttershy and was met by Applejack. Applejack pried and poked at the puck but Rose was resilient. Finally, Rose passed the puck along the right wing boards to Lily who was at the blue line. Twenty seconds left. Following the play, Rainbow quickly changed her direction and went after Lily. Lily reared her head back for a big shot. Seeing this, Rainbow sprung forward with a dive. As Lily’s stick came down on the puck, Rainbow’s diving stick pushed the puck out of the way, bouncing it off the boards into the neutral zone in front of the Ponyville bench. Ten seconds left. Lily followed through with her shot but had no puck left to shoot. Rainbow jumped to her skates and bolted for the puck. With time running down, Rainbow picked up the puck and was off on a breakaway. The entire arena rose to their hooves and yelled wildly as Rainbow carried the puck over the Fillydelphia blue line with seven seconds left. Apple Bloom skated out a bit while Rainbow zoomed in.
0:06
Rainbow arched her path along the left boards, creating a wide angle. Apple Bloom retreated back to the crease and hugged the left post.
0:05
Rainbow started her cut in toward the crease. The crowd’s cheering morphed into a deafening yell as Apple Bloom took in a giant gulp.
0:04
Coming in on the crease, Rainbow held the puck against the ice with the tip of her stick. Apple Bloom jumped forward to try to poke check it away.
0:03
Quickly snapping back her neck, Rainbow tucked the puck in toward her skates as Apple Bloom was left hanging out to dry, sprawled out in the crease.
0:02
With a wide open net in front of her, Rainbow focused in and fired the puck.
0:01
”SCOOOORRREEEEE!! SCOOOOORRREEEE!! PONYVILLE SCORES WITH TIME EXPIRING!! PONYVILLE WINS!! PONYVILLE WINS!!
Like an explosion, Ponyville Pond erupted with a yell that could carry out all the way to Canterlot. Rainbow Dash spread her wings and flew around the perimeter of the rink, squealing in absolute joy. The other Golden Leafs excitedly skated under her, waiting for her to land. With her wings getting tired, Rainbow hovered down to the ice surface where she was immediately engulfed by her teammates. Many of the fans who wore hats that evening threw them onto the ice for Rainbow Dash’s hat trick. Fireworks exploded around the scoreboard as streamers and hats rained from the sky.
On the other end of the ice, the Flyers all snapped their sticks in half and tossed them into the bench arena. Not wanting to watch the celebration, they stormed off to their locker room. The Golden Leafs laughed as they peeled themselves up from their pony pile. They waved to their fans as they skated off toward the locker room.
---
Back in the locker room, the celebration continued. Pinkie Pie pulled out balloons, party hats, kazoos, and a cake from her stall. After disposing of their sweat-filled uniforms, the Golden Leafs partied and danced the night away.
During the party, Apple Bloom walked in. She ran up to Applejack and gave her a hug. Then Apple Bloom motioned for Applejack to lend her an ear. Apple Bloom proceeded to whisper something to her sister, something important enough to make Applejack yell “WHAT?!” and cut off the party music.
Applejack turned to her friends with urgency in her voice. “Y’all wanna hear what Apple Bloom just told me?”
“What? What’s wrong Applejack?” asked Twilight cautiously.
“Accordin’ to Apple Bloom, it WAS those danged Flower Sisters who sent the poison joke to us! Apple Bloom said they were upset the poison joke didn’t make us lose tonight.”
Twilight stepped toward the Apple filly. “Is that right, Apple Bloom?”
“Yes it is, Twilight. They wrote Trixie’s name on the card to throw y’all off their trail. I didn’t know ‘bout it ‘til they argued with each other after the game was over.”
“A-ha! I just knew it was them! They acted soooo innocent too. I saw right through their little disguise,” Rarity said proudly as Rainbow rolled her eyes.
Twilight chimed in. “Well it doesn’t matter now. We won and they can’t take that away from us. Goes to show you that cheaters never win in the end. We’ll just have to keep that in mind when we go to Fillydelphia. Thanks for telling us, Apple Bloom.”
“Sure thing, Twilight! Hey! Maybe I got my truth-telling cutie mark!” said Apple Bloom as she checked her flank. The Golden Leafs laughed and cleaned up the locker room.
---
When Twilight and friends exited the arena, a small throng of fans were waiting for them and cheered when they emerged from the door. Many pictures were taken and autographs were signed. Rarity noticed a few ponies wearing Golden Leafs jerseys which made a wide smile appear on her face. After spending some time with their fans, the Golden Leafs departed for Twilight’s house.
At the house, Twilight debriefed them on when their next practice would be and on their next opponent, the Canterlot Equestrians. Twilight stressed the importance of playing Canterlot and how they’re Princess Celestia’s favorite team and that Princess Luna is their starting center. Exhausted, but cheerful, the Golden Leafs broke for the evening and went home.
The night was a very thrilling and successful one. The Golden Leafs overcame multiple hurdles to gain their first home victory and their first ever winning streak. Their teamwork and determination shone through adversity and allowed them to win together. With their confidence swelling and momentum growing behind them, the Golden Leafs would now turn their focus toward their next opponent, Equestria’s team.
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars from Fillydelphia @ Ponyville
* Rainbow Dash (PGL)
** Rose (FIL)
*** Twilight Sparkle (PGL)
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
---
APPLELOOSA 2, Manehattan 0
CLOUDSDALE 2, Canterlot 1
EHL Standings
---
Appleloosa 3-1
Cloudsdale 3-1
Manehattan 2-2
Ponyville 2-2
Fillydelphia 1-3
Canterlot 1-3
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XFizzle
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Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
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<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-24T22:01:48+00:00
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2011-09-24T22:01:48+00:00
| 3,445 |
Equestria Hockey League Part VII – Royal Treatment
by XFizzle
The following day after the Golden Leafs’ exhilarating victory over the Fillydelphia Flyers, Ponyville buzzed with excitement and fervor despite the freezing temperatures. More and more Golden Leafs signs, merchandise, and other various trinkets were cropping up in each house and shop. Sugarcube Corner began selling Golden Leafs cupcakes, each pastry depicting the team’s logo in delicious icing. Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Big Macintosh painted their apple selling cart to reflect the Golden Leafs’ royal blue and gold colors. Rarity spent her days off stitching up Golden Leafs jerseys, hats, saddles, and even dresses, to sell at the Carousel Boutique. Golden Leafs fever was sweeping through Ponyville and Twilight and company couldn’t have been more proud.
Enjoying her day off, Twilight lounged in front of the fireplace. She was reading a new book, calmly flipping through the pages. As she turned to the next page, a loud knock came at the door. Not wanting to leave her cozy spot, Twilight took her time finishing up the current page. Another loud knock came impatiently which finally moved Twilight to her feet. As she approached the rattling door, it unexpectedly flew open, almost hitting Twilight in the face. Loud trumpets rang throughout the treehouse as two royal guards stepped in.
“Now presenting her royal highness, Princess Luna!”
The guards turned to the side and backed away from the doorway, creating an open aisle. Stepping into the treehouse was Equestria’s other princess and starting center for the Canterlot Equestrians, Princess Luna. Luna playfully shooed the guards away and closed the door after they left. Twilight was greatly puzzled at Luna’s arrival but gave a slight bow in respect.
“P-Princess Luna, what brings you here to Ponyville so early? Isn’t the next game a few days away?”
Luna motioned for Twilight to stand back up and let out a charming giggle. “Oh Twilight Sparkle, my sister told me you would be a little confused. That’s why she wrote this note for me to bring to you!”
Luna made a scroll appear and drifted it over to Twilight. The scroll opened and Twilight began to read.
”To My Faithful Student Twilight Sparkle,
Please excuse my sister Princess Luna for arriving in Ponyville early for the big Canterlot versus Ponyville game this week. She begged me to allow her a short vacation in Ponyville so that she could visit the town and meet the Ponyvillians properly. Therefore, I am assigning the Golden Leafs to watch over and entertain Princess Luna during her stay and to show her the many wonders Ponyville has to offer. I am greatly looking forward to your game versus Canterlot as I will be watching your game through magical telecast. Good luck.
Your Royal Highness,
Princess Celestia”
Luna rolled up the scroll and poofed it away. She then stared at Twilight with an anxious grin, waiting in anticipation for something to start. Still confused, Twilight stared back at Luna with a contorted, uneasy smile of her own. After several seconds of awkward silence and staring, Twilight finally spoke.
“Sooooo, Princess Luna. Since you’re in Ponyville now, what would you like to do?”
Luna looked down and poked at the floor with indecisiveness.
“I don’t knoooow. What do you want to do?”
“Well, for one, you can meet my friends. They haven’t had the chance to be properly introduced to you. Does that sound like a good plan?”
Luna shyly lifted her head and looked at Twilight.
“I don’t knooooow. I guess that would be okay.”
Twilight kept up her uneasy smile. “Okay then. Let’s go meet the rest of the girls.”
With a plan in place, Twilight and Luna fled from the treehouse and trotted into town. The Golden Leafs had scheduled a practice for that day and agreed to meet in front of the arena. Twilight thought that now would be a good opportunity for the girls to meet Luna. She led the princess toward Ponyville Pond where the others were already waiting. Twilight’s friends began waving and yelling to her until they noticed another pony walking beside her. Their yells and waves stopped as Twilight and her guest came closer. When Twilight and Luna arrived, Luna was hiding behind Twilight. The rest of the Golden Leafs stared in confusion as Twilight greeted them.
“Hey girls! Ready for a fun, tough practice?”
Applejack pointed to Twilight’s tail. “Umm, who’s that hidin’ behind ya?”
Twilight looked back to see Luna slightly hiding and playing coy. Twilight swiftly shifted off to the side to reveal her guest.
“Everypony, allow me to formally introduce you to Princess Luna. She arrived into Ponyville early so she could enjoy the town.”
Luna slowly stood up from her hiding position and approached the Golden Leafs. The girls put a smile on their faces and cordially introduced themselves to Luna with a bow.
Applejack propped back up and grabbed Luna’s hoof, shaking it violently. “Howdy there, Princess! The name’s Applejack. Nice to officially make your acquaintance.”
Luna could only let out a laugh as she was tossed about by the hoofshake. Pinkie Pie was next and jumped at Luna. “Pleased to meet you Princess Luna! Do you like parties? I love to party! There was this one time I threw a party for all of Ponyville and everyone showed up wearing a hat and I was like what a great idea! So we all threw our hats on the ground and danced around them and had so much fun! And there was this other time-“
Pinkie kept spouting off as Rarity pushed her aside to get to Luna. Rarity gave Luna an elegant curtsy and began her introduction. “How wonderful it is to finally meet the other esteemed princess. My name is Rarity, the most regal pony here in Ponyville. I do hope you find my quaint little town a fabulous place to visit.”
Rainbow Dash flew down in between Luna and Rarity, cutting Rarity off. “YOUR town? Puh-leeze. My name’s Rainbow Dash! I’m the fastest flyer around here! If you want to spend time with a cool pony, I’m your gal!”
Luna shook Rainbow’s hand and looked at the others. She noticed Fluttershy standing in the back by herself. Luna parted the Golden Leafs and approached Fluttershy. Fluttershy, nervous in front of royalty, started to bow but slipped on her hooves and fell to the ground. Luna helped her up with a smile. Fluttershy completed her bow and finally gathered up the courage to look at Luna.
“Oh I’m so sorry, Princess. I didn’t mean to fall. My name is Fluttershy. You have a beautiful mane and coat. Please enjoy your time here.”
Luna turned to the girls. “It’s nice to meet all of you finally. I’m sorry about all the trouble I caused with the ruining of the Summer Sun Celebration and the battle inside the ruins.”
“Ah, that stuff’s ancient history now. You’re a welcomed guest as far as Ah’m concerned,” said Applejack.
“Thank you. So, what do you all want to do?” asked Luna.
The Golden Leafs looked at her and laughed. Pinkie hopped up to Luna. “We’re going to practice, silly! We have a big game this week against Canterlot!”
Luna’s smile faded into a look of disappointment. Recalling Celestia’s letter and not wanting to upset either princess, Twilight butted in. “Well, we don’t have to start right away. Hehe. How about we give Luna a tour of Ponyville? Show her all the shops and houses and Sweet Apple Acres. Doesn’t that sound fun?”
Rainbow, Applejack, and Rarity gave Twilight an unenthused, blank look. Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy perked up and were excited by the idea. Luna also perked up and regained her happy grin. Twilight saw the mixture of emotions among her friends and started walking towards town. “We’ll do a quick tour of the town and be back here to practice in no time!” With three groans, three cheers, and one paranoid tour guide, the Golden Leafs and Princess Luna began their small journey.
---
The gang first arrived at Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie Pie took over Twilight’s role and energetically showed Luna every nook and cranny, even down to the nails in the floor boards.
“Isn’t this place just neat and delicious?” asked Pinkie.
“Oh it’s nice and sweet here. Say, do you have any cupcakes? Celly won’t let me have any. When she does, it’s these yucky, fancy organic cupcakes that the royal bakers make. They taste horrible,” said Luna sticking out her tongue in digust.
Pinkie hopped toward the kitchen. “You bet your crown we do! Follow me!”
Pinkie led Luna to the kitchen to whip up a quick batch. At the counter, Applejack, Rainbow, and Rarity were audibly making their boredom known with sighing, eye rolling, and hoof tapping. Twilight saw this and tried convincing them of her plan.
“Look, we’ll show the princess two more places then we’ll go practice, okay? I know this isn’t what we planned but I can’t disappoint both Princess Luna and Celestia. They’re both counting on me.”
Applejack and Rarity warmed up a little to Twilight’s plea but Rainbow was still a bit annoyed.
“We understand, Twi. It’s just that we wanna get as much practice in as possible so we’re ready to take on them Canterlot folk,” said Applejack.
Rarity nodded with Applejack’s remark. “I delayed all my design projects today because I knew we were practicing. But, if this will please Princess Celestia, then it is quite alright with me, Twilight.”
Rainbow rolled her eyes again then spoke up. “I don’t see why WE’RE the ones who have to do this. Why couldn’t Princess Luna get dumped onto someone else’s-“
Rainbow cut herself off because Luna and Pinkie had come back from the kitchen.
“I mean, we’re SO glad to have Princess Luna here to keep us company and to have some awesome fun with us. Heh heh,” said Rainbow with an overemphatic, fake smile.
Luna smiled back and gave each Golden Leaf a cupcake she had made. Twilight and friends gulped their snack down, complimenting the princess for a job well done. They then turned toward the exit but were stopped by Luna.
“That’s just the appetizer! I’m going to treat you ponies to a royal lunch because you’ve been so kind and welcoming!”
Pinkie Pie squealed in delight. “Oooh! Let me help! Let me help!”
“Me too, please!” said Fluttershy excitedly.
Rainbow let out a frustrated grunt while Applejack and Rarity turned to Twilight with desperation on their faces. Twilight let out a sigh herself but quickly propped up a smile. Through her teeth, Twilight replied, “What a great idea, Luna! We’ll wait right here.”
Luna, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy returned to the kitchen to prepare more food. About ten minutes later, they emerged with a whole buffet full of tasty food. Luna used her magic to dress a nearby table and presented the food with decorative platters and dishes. The Golden Leafs’ mouths watered and were amazed by Luna’s display.
Luna sat at the head of the table and tapped a spoon to a glass. “By royal decree from Princess Luna of Equestria……. DIG IN!”
The ponies voraciously gulped down every bit of food that was made. Before long, everyone was so full they couldn’t budge from their spots. Twilight looked at the clock then turned to Luna.
“Well, that was certainly a delightful meal. How about we head over to Ponyville Pond and have our practice?”
Luna looked down in sorrow. With a feeble voice and tears gathering in her eyes, Luna looked at Twilight. “But I was hoping we could have a party. Celestia never lets me have any parties.”
Twilight looked to her friends who frantically shook their heads and waved their hooves no. Paranoid about what wrath she might incur if she failed the princess, Twilight blurted out without thinking.
“Sure! We’ll have a party! Pinkie Pie, will you do the honors?”
“Okie dokie lokie, Twilight! One cr-AAA-zy party coming right up!”
Frustrated with another deviation from their plans, Rainbow, Applejack, and Rarity threw their hooves to the air with a sigh. Luna sparked straight back up and was clapping her hooves while squealing with laughter. Pinkie Pie joined Luna in her squealing as the others covered their ears. Soon after, Pinkie busted out balloons, streamers, a cake, and a record player and the party began. Pinkie, Fluttershy, and Luna danced in the center of the room while Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow, and Twilight stood around the table.
Rainbow walked over to Applejack and Rarity and whispered something into both their ears. Twilight narrowed her eyes and tried listening in. Applejack and Rarity’s faces shifted from confusion to surprise to irritation as Rainbow whispered on. Frustrated by the secrecy right in front of her, Twilight yelled.
“What are you three talking about?!?”
“Rainbow brought up a great point, dear. What if Luna is trying to stall us on purpose so we don’t practice? Maybe Luna is a saboteur sent by the Equestrians to mess us up!” exclaimed Rarity.
Twilight rolled her eyes and stomped towards Rainbow who backed down. “Princess Luna is just a normal pony just like you and me. She’s allowed to have a vacation and a little fun just as we can. She is NOT a saboteur.”
Applejack stood between the angered Twilight and Rainbow. “I don’t know, Twi. All this waitin’ around and doin’ nothin’ is really cuttin’ in on our plans. I’m startin’ to agree with Rainbow here.”
At first Twilight was disappointed in Applejack but her disappointment quickly flared back into anger. She stomped her hooves down hard, causing Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow to cower.
“Fine, if you three think this is all some crazy, elaborate scheme to interfere with our practicing, then just go. The rest of us will meet you at the arena later.”
Applejack stepped toward Twilight with concern. “But, Twi.”
Rainbow walked over to Applejack and turned her toward the door. “Let’s go. Maybe Little Miss Princess Pal here will wake up and realize we were right. Come on, we’ll practice without them.”
“Fine! We’ll see you later!” yelled Twilight as she mockingly waved the three party poopers goodbye.
Fluttershy saw the group leaving and approached Twilight confused. “Where are they going, Twilight?”
Twilight danced angrily, stomping with each step. “Oh, they were just being downers and left for practice. We’ll party on without them.”
“Oh, I see. When are we going to practice?” asked Fluttershy nervously.
Twilight’s anger level lowered and she let out a sigh. “I don’t know, Fluttershy. Hopefully soon.”
Luna danced and bounced all over the room, clearly enjoying herself. Pinkie started to feel tired as she couldn’t keep up with Luna’s dancing.
“Oh…you’re…good…you’re…real…good,” panted Pinkie.
“Thanks! I guess I have like crazy limitless energy seeing as I have to take care of the moon and stuff.”
Pinkie crawled over to Twilight on all fours. “Save…me…Twilight!”
Twilight magically stopped the record player and approached the princess.
“Okay, Luna. We really have to go practice now. We’ll clean up here and then we’ll take you back to my treehouse-“
Luna began sobbing uncontrollably, interrupting Twilight. Twilight, Pinkie, and Fluttershy all sunk with concern and tried consoling Luna. Luna’s sobbing exploded into a river of tears.
“You ponies don’t understand! You don’t know what it’s like being a princess! I’m not allowed to do anything I want! It takes so much energy to move the moon and when I’m done, I’m forced to attend stuffy, boring royal ceremonies and meetings. I can’t play with my sister because she never has time for me. I don’t like being a princess anymoreee!”
Guilt and paranoia poured over Twilight and she panicked trying to think of a way to stop Luna’s crying. “Okay, okay. There’s no need to cry.” Twilight looked around the room trying to get an idea of what to do. She saw a pillow resting against a chair and it clicked in her head.
“How about we have a sleepover next?”
Luna’s crying slowly reduced to sniffling. She looked up at Twilight. “R-r-really? Can we?”
“Sure we can! The party doesn’t have to stop now!” exclaimed Pinkie who recovered from her fatigue.
“We can tell stories and give each other makeovers. It will be lovely and nice,” said Fluttershy in a very comforting voice.
The crying came to a full stop. Luna rose to her hooves and flashed a faint smile. Twilight, Pinkie, and Fluttershy let out a giant sigh of relief. They all proceed to clean up and when they were finished, they headed over to the treehouse.
---
With the sun lowering as they arrived at the treehouse, Luna vanished to quickly raise the moon. In an instant, the sun fell and the moon was up and glowing. Luna swiftly returned with her pajamas on, ready for the sleepover to which the others dropped their jaws in shock. Luna giggled and happily skipped inside.
Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Princess Luna began their sleepover and had fun doing so. They told stories, played games, roasted marshmallows, and gave each other makeovers. After a long night of laughter and fun, the sleepover came to an abrupt halt as Luna was the first to crash asleep on the sofa. The remaining Golden Leafs moved her to a bed and went to asleep as well.
---
The following day, Twilight, Pinkie, and Fluttershy awoke to find Luna missing from her sleeping spot. In her place was a note. Twilight read the note.
”Dear Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy,
Thank you very much for the fun party and sleepover! It was a total blast! I’m excited to see you on the ice tonight when we, the Canterlot Equestrians, whoop your tails! Goodbye for now!
Love,
Luney : )
Finally relieved of the arduous task of entertaining Princess Luna, Twilight and her friends felt a weight lifted from their shoulders. They hung around the treehouse until it was finally time to head over to Ponyville Pond for the game.
As they drew closer to the arena, Twilight, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy heard a loud rumble. When they came over the hill, they saw a mass of ponies pushing their way through the arena doors, anxious for the game. Their faces lit up with excitement and they quickly galloped to the players’ entrance and onward to the locker room.
Inside the locker room, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Rarity had already arrived and were in uniform waiting. When the remaining Golden Leafs showed up, Rainbow leapt up and began to boss Twilight around.
“Oh look girls, look who finally showed up! Why, how nice of you to join us Twilight, Pinkie, and Fluttershy!”
Twilight started growling but was interrupted by Applejack. “Settle down you two, we need ta’ be savin’ our energy for Canterlot tonight, not wastin’ it on each other. What we’re y’all up to after we left anyways?”
Pinkie skipped to her locker and began putting her pads on. “Well we we’re partying then Twilight made the princess cry. Luna had a breakdown and started telling us how she never gets to do anything. It was so sad! But Twilight thought up an idea real quick and we ended up having a super fun sleepover!”
“How exciting,” said Rainbow with a sarcastic tone.
Rarity sat up and spoke to the group. “The important thing is that we’re all back together again. Now Twilight, darling, what is the scoop on the Equestrians?”
Twilight looked away with guilt. “I don’t know. We spent so much time with Princess Luna, I didn’t get a chance to scout the Equestrians out.”
“Ohhh, whaaaat a shoooock,” said Rainbow mockingly. Twilight quickly looked back up and growled at Rainbow. They went nose to nose until Applejack broke them up again.
“Well, there ain’t much to go on, so I guess we’ll just have to go with the basics tonight.”
“I’m going to do what I PRACTICED yesterday,” said Rainbow, emphasizing the word practice for Twilight’s benefit.
Twilight let out a snarky snort and grinned at Rainbow. “Right, we’ll see how that works out.”
Applejack had to step in again. “ENOUGH you two! Geez Apple Louise. Stop yer bickerin’ and let’s play some hockey, alright?”
Twilight and Rainbow turned away from each other with a “hmph!” as the other Golden Leafs gritted their teeth nervously.
The Golden Leafs filed out of the locker room and headed to the ice with Rainbow in front and Twilight staying far away in the rear.
The Ponyville crowd was buzzing louder than ever, anxiously awaiting their Golden Leafs’ arrival and hoping for another thrilling win. The lights dimmed and spotlights circled the ice. Every pony in the arena stood with a cheer except for a small collection of Canterlot ponies who sat in the upper deck. The Canterlot ponies were of higher society and calmly sipped on tea as crazed Golden Leafs fans flailed around them.
The doors leading to the ice opened and Spike began his introduction of the Equestrians.
”Fillies and gentlecolts, I present to you the opponent for the evening, hailing all the way from the capitol of Canterlot and the owners of the most Celestia Cup Championships in EHL history, it’s the Canterlot Equestrians!”
A large throng of boos rang out as the small sample of Canterlot ponies quietly engaged in soft golf claps. A red carpet rolled out onto the ice and camera flashes appeared out of nowhere.
”Starting at center, number 25, Your Royal Highness Princess Luna! At left wing, number 1, it’s Prince Blueblood! At right wing, number 77, Hoity Toity! On defense, number 5, Moondancer! The other defensepony, number 55, Photo Finish! And finally, the captain, starting in goal and wearing number 29, it’s Pony Joe!”
The crowd’s noise level remained the same except the Golden Leafs fans changed their booing to cheering as it was time to announce the hometown team. Spike went through the usual introductions but this time fireworks exploded after each pony was called. The arena lights flickered back on and both teams circled around their ends of the rink. From across the ice, Luna yelled to catch Twilight’s attention.
“Yoohooo! Twilight! Thanks again!”
Twilight cracked an uneasy smile and gave a small wave back. The referee emerged from the bench area with the puck, ready to go. Both teams lined up for the opening faceoff and soon the puck was dropped.
---
Game number five was underway and started out with a bang, a bang of the boards and glass that is. Using their pent up frustration from the locker room, Rainbow and Twilight punished any Equestrian who came near them. Within the first two minutes, Ponyville had racked up five hits. Luna had the puck behind the net in the Canterlot zone and carried it up through the center. She slapped it down into the corner were Hoity chased after it. Fluttershy and Rarity ganged up on him in the corner with Rarity trying to poke the puck away. Hoity kicked the puck along the boards to Blueblood who took it away from the opposite corner. Before Blueblood could pass the puck off, Applejack cruised in and landed a bone-rattling hit on the prince. Play continued on but Blueblood got up and immediately skated over to the referee.
“Dear sir, did you just see what that brutish earth pony did to me? She completely ruffled my perfectly groomed coat and mane! I demand you punish her at once!”
The referee ignored Blueblood and kept watching the play. Photo Finish now had the puck on the blue line, looking for a teammate to get open. Blueblood jumped back in on the play and called for the puck. Photo skipped the puck over to him but Fluttershy closed in. As soon as Blueblood received the puck, Fluttershy gently floated through and nudged him off stride. Instantly, as if he was in a trance, the referee raised his hoof and blew the whistle when the puck landed in Pinkie’s glove.
“Penalty Ponyville, number 0, two minutes for roughing.”
The Ponyville crowd soured and yelled at the referee as Fluttershy drifted toward the box, upset and frightened that she committed a penalty. The Golden Leafs slammed their sticks down in protest but the referee wouldn’t have any of it. Blueblood laughed under his breath as the teams set up for the faceoff.
Luna won the faceoff back to Moondancer who waited patiently on the blue line for her team to get organized. The Golden Leafs skated into their usual penalty killing box formation and moved with the puck. Moondancer passed to Photo who flung it to Hoity in the corner. Photo zipped toward the net for Hoity to pass it back on the give-and-go but the pass slipped right through. Rainbow zoomed up to intercept the puck and was off on a shorthanded breakaway. The crowd stood up for Rainbow’s attempt while Pony Joe stayed put inside the crease. Reliving the game-winning goal from the last game, Rainbow lost focus and rumbled toward the net. Pony Joe braced himself and forcefully thrust his stick at Rainbow. He lodged the puck away and Rainbow skated on, confused she didn’t have the puck anymore. The crowd let out a disappointing groan and soon Canterlot was back on offense. One minute remained in the Equestrians’ power play. Moondancer held the puck on the blue line as Luna, Blueblood, and Hoity buzzed around the net. Applejack and Rarity began to drift toward Moondancer to apply pressure. Seeing this, Moondancer wound up and fired a shot toward the net. With the puck in the air, Luna shifted her grip on the stick to the edge of the handle and braced for a redirection. Moondancer’s shot glanced off the bottom of Luna’s floating stick blade and flew through Pinkie’s five-hole. The goal light illuminated as the crowd commenced their booing.
”Canterlot power play goal, scored by number 25, Princess Luna! Assisted by number 5, Moondancer!”
Fluttershy sadly exited the penalty box as the Equestrians finished up their goal celebration. Fluttershy received reassuring taps from her teammates before they reset at center ice for a new faceoff.
The rest of the period featured back and forth shooting for both teams. The Golden Leafs also kept hitting much to Canterlot’s chagrin. Rarity checked Photo Finish which elicited an accent-filled rant to the referee. After Applejack gave Hoity a shove down in the corner, he too was in the referee’s ear about the violent hitting. By the end of the period, each Equestrian except Luna and Pony Joe had something to say to the referee about the Golden Leafs’ physicality. Luckily Ponyville escaped the period without another penalty, but still faced a 1-0 deficit. Both teams skated to their locker rooms while the arena lost its loud, energetic buzz.
---
Back in the locker room, the Golden Leafs vented their frustrations about Canterlot’s whining.
“I just cain’t believe those Equestrians. Bunch a’ cryfillies they are,” said Applejack.
Rarity let out a quick chortle. “Please Applejack, what they did was nowhere close to whining.”
“Ha, you would know about that,” chimed in Rainbow.
“Oh, ha ha,” said Rarity in fake laughter.
“Well, we can’t play them close because the referee might call a penalty on us. I mean if he called a penalty on nice, kind Fluttershy here, who knows what we could get!” cried Twilight as Fluttershy quietly nodded in agreement.
Twilight and friends tried to quickly come up with a new plan for the 2nd period before the starting horn began. It was too late as the teams were called back to the ice to begin the next period.
---
The 2nd period began and Ponyville nervously avoided the Canterlot skaters for fear of being penalized. Canterlot took advantage of the situation and played rougher on both sides of the ice. There was a set-up in the Equestrians zone where Rainbow and Applejack were going to attempt a give-and-go. After Applejack passed off the puck, she was forced into the glass by a Blueblood check, clearly a boarding penalty but it was not called. Right when Rainbow received the pass, she too was nudged and eventually tripped by Moondancer, which again was not called. The Ponyvillians around the arena began voicing their displeasure toward the referee for swallowing the whistle.
Back on the other end, Blueblood was up with Luna while only Twilight, Fluttershy, and Rarity were back on defense. Remembering her spoiled evening at the Grand Galloping Gala, Rarity ignited a fire within her and started hounding Blueblood. She stayed on him closely and snuck in an elbow and nudge every chance she got. After more jostling along the boards, Blueblood had enough of the jabs and bumped Rarity in the flank. Rarity’s eyes flashed red as she whipped around and slapped Blueblood in the face with her stick. Blueblood fell to the ice and acted as if he had just been beaten to a pulp. The referee immediately raised his hoof and chirped the whistle incessantly.
“Ponyville penalty, number 9, four minutes for high sticking!”
Rarity briskly skated up to the referee. “FOUR minutes? Are you crazy? I barely touched him!”
“Lock her away! Lock her away I say! She has desecrated my perfect, unblemished face!” yelled Prince Blueblood from the ice.
Rarity skated at Blueblood and skidded to stop, spraying him with ice flakes. Blueblood cried in melodramatic agony as the referee skated over to grab Rarity. She then let out a frustrated grunt on her way to the penalty box. The crowd booed louder as Ponyville was set to embark on a four minute penalty kill, their longest of the season so far.
Twilight gathered up her penalty kill unit to go over a plan. Blueblood was finally back up on his skates and set up for the faceoff. The puck dropped and the Canterlot power play began. Canterlot flung the puck all over the zone cleanly, snapping passes to each other. Photo had the puck at the point and fired on net which Pinkie stopped. She couldn’t hold onto it and the rebound bounced back to Hoity at the faceoff circle. After a few more passes and shots on net, Ponyville finally grabbed the puck and shot it down the ice. Canterlot retreated to retrieve the puck and came right back. Two minutes remained in Rarity’s penalty. Moondancer passed off to Luna who was on the left wing boards. She tried cutting toward the center but was surrounded by Rainbow and Twilight. Luna noticed Blueblood open on the other wing and passed it off. Applejack read the play and intercepted the pass, flinging it down to the other side.
Thirty seconds remained on the power play now and the crowd started to grow louder in their cheering for the Golden Leafs’ penalty kill. Photo Finish had the puck at the point again and skated into the slot to draw a double team from Applejack and Rainbow. Blueblood replaced her spot on the point and slapped his stick for Photo to pass back. With the puck going back to Blueblood, Hoity charged to the front of the net to screen Pinkie. While Photo obstructed Applejack and Rainbow, the center was left open for Blueblood to skate into and fire a shot. The puck was shot like a bullet and came in on the net. Hoity jumped out of the puck’s path but Pinkie managed to see the shot and quickly knocked it down. However, she allowed another rebound and Hoity was there on the doorstep to push it on home.
The Golden Leafs lowered their heads and the crowd uttered a giant groan as the Equestrians expanded their lead to 2-0 after another power play goal. Rarity exited the penalty box still miffed about her penalty.
”Canterlot power play goal, scored by number 77, Hoity Toity. Assisted by number 1, Prince Blueblood, and number 55, Photo Finish!
Play resumed with the Golden Leafs in a deeper hole. With only a minute left in the period, they managed to fire off a few shots but Pony Joe came up strong in net for Canterlot. The final 2nd period horn blew and Ponyville lazily drifted off the ice, frustrated and confused about how to play against the Equestrians.
---
Upon entering the room, Rainbow whipped her helmet at her stall in frustration. The other Golden Leafs shared their own unique ways of venting, although none were as violent as Rainbow’s. While mulling over a way to break through Canterlot and their stranglehold on the game’s tempo, Rarity came up with an idea.
“I know what we must do. We must fight fire with fire! If Canterlot can whine their way through this game…” Rarity then flipped her helmet off to cover her face. She pulled it down to reveal an extremely distraught pouty face. “…whyyyy caaaaan’t weeeeeeee?
The others liked this idea except for Twilight. “I don’t know, Rarity. Wouldn’t you rather win through hard work and being the better team?”
Rarity condescendingly laughed off Twilight’s remark. “Oh Twilight dear, hard work has gotten us nowhere tonight. If we want to win, we…must…whine!”
Twilight gave up on the disagreement and reluctantly complied. The Golden Leafs freshened up and headed back out for the 3rd period.
---
The 3rd period began and Ponyville had the puck in the Canterlot zone. Applejack held the puck at the right faceoff circle, covered closely by Blueblood. As she turned toward the boards to spin away from the defense, Applejack was crushed by a Luna check and Canterlot skated away with the puck. On her way back down the ice, Applejack went over to the referee and tried her shot at whining, something she never did nor knew how to do.
“Owwwww, what A vicious hiiiiiiit. The PRINCESS is a maaaaaniac out there! I was ALMOST killed, owwwww.” Applejack’s feeble attempt at whining didn’t resonate with the referee who skated along with the play.
Canterlot was back in the Ponyville zone. Blueblood had the puck and skated down to the corner with it. Twilight met him and poked away at the puck. Feeling his personal space encroached upon, Blueblood wildly bucked away with the puck, knocking Twilight over in the process. Now open, Blueblood ripped a shot on Pinkie but she caught it for a save. When the whistle blew, Twilight tried her chance at whining.
“Oh whaaaaaat a nasty plaaaaayyyyy! Prince Blueblood is such a monsterrrrrr! I demand you do something about this at once!”
The referee was too busy picking up the puck up from Pinkie to care about Twilight’s complaint. Twilight let out a groan when she realized her whine didn’t work. Luna won the ensuing faceoff back to Photo but she whiffed on a quick shot and was chased down by Rarity. Rarity pinned Photo to the boards, prying away at the puck. Fluttershy skated out of position to help Rarity out. Fluttershy was able to free the puck but was immediately bowled over by Luna who had come over to help her teammate. Fluttershy gently stood back up and drifted over to the referee.
“Umm…I was hit toooooo hard…um…please give Canterlot a penalty…if that’s okay with…you.”
Once again, a Golden Leafs’ cry went unheard as play continued on. Hoity now had the puck and carried it into the Ponyville zone. He deked around Rarity and passed it off to Blueblood on the wing. Back in her spot, Fluttershy drifted in for a hit but Blueblood was too solid and he easily brushed Fluttershy away. Blueblood passed to Moondancer at the point. Moondancer was challenged by Rainbow and ended up giving away the puck. Rainbow was quickly caught by Luna who fought for the puck back. Seeing Rainbow and Luna tangled along the short boards, Blueblood set his aim for Rainbow and bolted away. Luna heard the rumbling coming toward her and peeled away leaving Rainbow open for a beating. Blueblood closed in and smacked Rainbow into the empty bench. Rainbow yelled as she flipped head over hooves over the boards. The crowd gasped at the hit but their gasp quickly changed into cheers as the referee finally had his hoof raised for a Canterlot penalty.
“Canterlot penalty, number 1, two minutes for charging.”
Prince Blueblood protested to the referee but he was tuned out for once. Rarity received a helmet bump from her friends for her advice as Ponyville began their first power play of the evening. Rainbow was back and shaking out of her daze as she took the faceoff. However Luna won the faceoff back to Moondancer who shot it down toward Pinkie. Pinkie skated up to play the puck to Applejack. Applejack brought the puck in as the Golden Leafs set up their power play formation. The Golden Leafs worked their strategy to perfection, passing quickly and firing away shots. Not in the strategy, however, was a poised goaltender who blocked and denied every shot Ponyville threw at him. Pony Joe calmly brushed away every power play shot he faced. With just a few seconds left on the power play, Rainbow had the puck and tried deking her way through the Canterlot defense. She broke through the middle and got to the crease but was met by Pony Joe who executed another perfectly placed poke check to knock the puck away.
Blueblood scampered out of the penalty box while the crowd’s anticipatory cheering dissipated into silence as Canterlot regained control of the game. Canterlot infiltrated the Ponyville zone and opened up a flurry of shots on Pinkie. She stopped them all but was growing tired. After finally holding onto a shot, play was halted and Pinkie caught a quick breath. Before play resumed, Moondancer skated over to Twilight.
“You know, I still haven’t forgiven you for missing out on my birthday party! Then again, we all had a great time without you. You would’ve made it nerdy anyways. When you moved to Ponyville, Canterlot became much cooler.”
Twilight tried brushing off Moondancer’s words and waited for the puck to drop. Luna won the faceoff back to Photo who swung it along the blue line to Moondancer who had just gotten to her position. After allowing Moondancer’s words to creep into her mind, Twilight angrily dashed toward the point. Moondancer saw Twilight coming at her and decided to skate toward the net. Twilight went to line up a hit but Moondancer forced herself to stumble. Twilight let up on her hit attempt and stopped when the referee skated over with the penalty call.
“Ponyville penalty, number 42, two minutes for tripping!”
Down 2-0 with only three minutes left and the Golden Leafs taking on their third penalty kill of the evening, the crowd began heading for the exits. Twilight let out a defeated groan as she entered her temporary glass prison. On the very next faceoff, the Equestrians made quick work of their power play. Luna won the faceoff back to Moondancer who instantly fired on net since Ponyville was not in position yet. Pinkie’s glove was too slow and the shot clanged the top right corner. Moondancer was mobbed by her teammates while Twilight left the box just as quickly as she entered it.
”Canterlot power play goal, scored by number 5, Moondancer! Assisted by number 25, Princess Luna!
The remaining Golden Leafs fans booed before making their exit. The last two and a half minutes were spent with Ponyville trying to shoot their way back into the game but Pony Joe came up strong again.
When time expired, the score read Canterlot 3, Ponyville 0. The Golden Leafs were shutout for the first time this season in a game where nothing went right. The Equestrians met at center ice to celebrate their win as Ponyville solemnly floated away to the locker room.
---
The locker room was silent as Twilight and friends undressed and cleaned up. Rainbow was rough on her equipment as she forcefully slammed and pounded on her locker. No one was in the mood to talk. Rainbow occasionally shot irritated glances toward Twilight, insinuating that it was Twilight’s fault they weren’t prepared tonight. Twilight caught one of Rainbow’s glances and sent an annoyed glance right back. Before long, Rainbow and Twilight were nose to nose again, just like in the pregame. They yelled at each other while Applejack and Rarity tried defusing the situation.
“It’s YOUR fault we didn’t win! You spent too much time playing with the princess, who, may I remind you, was the ENEMY tonight! And you didn’t coach us like you should!”
“Well if you think you’re so great, why don’t you try reading up on the other team?! Or is the great Rainbow Dash too dumb to pick up a book once in a while?”
“Why you!”
Before Rainbow and Twilight clashed, Spike and Princess Luna entered the room. Spike was holding a scroll while Luna walked up to Twilight smiling.
“I dropped by to thank all of you again for your hospitality and for welcoming me to Ponyville. I had a really great time and I hope to play with you all again real soon!”
The Golden Leafs, save for Twilight and Rainbow, appreciated Luna’s thanks although their faces didn’t reflect it. Twilight was relieved on the inside that neither Princess Luna nor Celestia was going to be upset, but she still locked eyes with Rainbow.
After Princess Luna left, Spike brought the scroll to the team’s attention and read it aloud.
”From the Offices of the Equestria Hockey League,
Since the first half of the season is now complete, the EHL has named their all-star selections. This is a great honor and we congratulate you on this prestigious distinction.
The all-star selections for the Ponyville Golden Leafs are:
#20 Rainbow Dash
#42 Twilight Sparkle
Once again, congratulations on the selection and good luck in the second half of the season.
Sincerely,
Gary Bettpony
EHL Commissioner
Upon hearing Spike delivering the news, Rainbow and Twilight broke out of their struggle and both looked away from each other in embarrassment. The other Golden Leafs began cheering for their all-star teammates as Twilight and Rainbow faced each other again. Twilight extended her hoof in peace.
“I’m sorry Rainbow, I got carried away and I should’ve had us more prepared tonight.”
Rainbow accepted Twilight’s peace offering and shook her hoof. “No, I’m sorry. I overreacted and I acted like a real mule. I’m the one who should be sorry.”
They embraced in a hug as the others looked on with a relieved smile. Suddenly, an odd smell permeated the locker room air. It was a pungent, perfume-like smell which caused everyone to cover their noses. With the smell becoming unbearable, the Golden Leafs ran out to find the source. When they noticed it was coming from outside the arena, they rushed forward, hoping to remove the stinging odor. When the ponies came upon the source, they gasped in shock.
Before them lying on the ground was a stuffed pony doll wearing a Golden Leafs jersey. The doll was battered and torn up, with cotton poking out from its stitches and tears. Driven through the center of the doll was a single stalk of poison joke. The smell was emanating from the dangerous flower. Twilight used her magic to make it disappear and to waft away the stench.
The Golden Leafs’ eyes enflamed when they realized who had left this message. They all turned to each other and sternly shouted.
“Fillydelphia.”
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars from Canterlot @ Ponyville
* Pony Joe (CTL)
** Princess Luna (CTL)
*** Moondancer (CTL)
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
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Manehattan 3, CLOUDSDALE 2 (OT)
Completed Yesterday
APPLELOOSA 4, Fillydelphia 1
EHL Standings
---
Appleloosa 4-1
Manehattan 3-2
Cloudsdale 3-2
Canterlot 2-3
Ponyville 2-3
Fillydelphia 1-4
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XFizzle
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1005
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Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-24T22:07:08+00:00
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2011-09-24T22:07:08+00:00
| 3,458 |
Equestria Hockey League Part VIII – Broad Street Bullies
by XFizzle
The day of the next Golden Leafs game, Twilight and Spike met their friends at the carriage station to board their ride to nearby Fillydelphia. During the week, the Golden Leafs met twice for practice. The first practice was spent working on special teams, especially the penalty kill as they allowed three power play goals against Canterlot. The second practice was spent working on their toughness and checking so that their bodies could handle the second-half grind. Both practices were lively and hard-hitting as the Golden Leafs turned their irritation for the Flyers into physical energy. After the poison joke package and the ominous doll message left for them, the Golden Leafs were anxious to meet the Flyers back out on the ice so that they get their hooves on them.
Aboard the carriage, Twilight reviewed the first game against Fillydelphia and refreshed her friends on the Flyers’ playing style. Rainbow Dash ignored the scouting session and devised new ways to dangle and deke the puck when she would have it. Applejack imagined in her head vicious checks and hits she could hand out to the annoying Flyers players. Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Spike listened but did not process the overload of information Twilight tended to give. Two hours of talking and traveling later, the carriage arrived in front of the Flyers’ home arena in Fillydelphia, the Welsh Fargo Center. When the Golden Leafs stepped out, a vile odor collided with their nostrils. The smell of the city was overbearing for Rarity who collapsed into Applejack’s forelegs. Luckily the visitor’s entrance to the arena lay right before them. Not wasting any time, the ponies marched into the building and straight to their locker room.
---
Inside the locker room, Spike helped each pony get their equipment on. The Golden Leafs went around the room expressing their dislike for the Fillydelphia Flyers.
“Oooh I can’t wait to give those wretched Flyers a piece of my mind! Who are they to intimidate us?” said Rarity sternly.
Rainbow looked to Rarity and nodded with her. “Yeah, I mean, they’re in LAST place. They’re losers! They don’t have any right to try to scare us!”
“Them Flyers ain’t gonna know what hit them tonight I’ll tell ya what!” shouted Applejack with energy in her voice.
“Now girls, let’s not forget why we’re here. Let’s focus on winning tonight. We need to be calm, cool, and collected. We need to be poised,” begged Twilight as she noticed her teammates’ tempers rising.
“Boooringgg!” yelled Pinkie Pie. “Let’s get rough! Let’s get tough! Let’s go crazy!”
Pinkie bounced all over the room growling and making funny angry faces at her teammates before Fluttershy spoke up. “Um…I agree with Twilight, we should…”
Rainbow trotted over to Fluttershy. “We should what? Fillydelphia are nothing but jerks and I bet they’re not going to be nice tonight. You’re going to have to be tough Fluttershy or else the Flyers are going to wipe you all over the ice!”
Fluttershy squeaked in fright as Twilight brushed Rainbow away. “Chill out Rainbow, Fluttershy knows how it’ll go tonight. She’ll be ready, won’t you Fluttershy?”
Fluttershy closed her eyes and quietly nodded.
Applejack jumped up from her stall and started walking toward the door. “Ah’m so excited to get on out there and start hittin’! I cain’t wait! Let’s go right now!”
Twilight grabbed her by the tail. “Wait, Applejack! I haven’t given the usual pregame talk yet!”
“Phooey on the talk, Twi, we know what we need ta’ do, right Golden Leafs?!”
“Yeah!” shouted Rainbow, Rarity, and Pinkie. Twilight and Fluttershy looked at their teammates with apprehension.
With a sigh, Twilight motioned to the door and the Golden Leafs filed out toward the rink full of anxious vitality.
As they approached the rink, the hallway expanded to allow room for the zamboni mules and their ice plows. Across the opening, also filing out of their locker room were the Flyers. Glass partitions encased the two teams’ paths to the ice. The Flyers noticed the Golden Leafs and began furiously pounding on their partition to get the Golden Leafs’ attention. Rainbow, Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie responded by doing the same on their end. Twilight and Fluttershy kept looking ahead, not wanting to get involved. Apple Bloom was the only Flyer on the other side not participating in the pregame intimidation game.
When the one minute warning horn blared throughout the Welsh Fargo Center, the doors to the rink opened and the referee and EHL officials quickly skated over to direct both teams away from each other. Growls, snarls, and mean faces shot back and forth between the Flyers and Golden Leafs. The Welsh Fargo Center roared with vulgar Flyers fans yelling obscenities and throwing all sorts of items. The atmosphere inside the arena could be described as a packed barrel of gunpowder, just waiting for the right spark for it to explode. Tonight was no place for a young filly as bad blood boiled between these two teams.
After the Golden Leafs and Flyers were introduced, the Flyers’ announcer had special news to share.
”Fillydelphia Fans! We have a special guest with us tonight! Please give a Fillydelphia welcome to Equestria Hockey League Commissioner, Gary Bettpony!”
“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!” exploded the Flyers faithful as Gary Bettpony took his seat in one of the suites high above the crowd. Security ponies blocked incoming debris from hitting the unpopular commissioner.
Extra referees were brought in to officiate the game and they kept a close eye on both teams’ warm-ups, ready to diffuse a possible scuffle. The head referee grabbed the puck and called for the opening faceoff. Apple Bloom and Pinkie Pie raised their glove hooves to signal their readiness. The puck dropped and the first game of the second half of the season was underway.
---
As expected, the opening minutes were filled with intense, physical checking. It appeared as if the teams were less focused on winning and were more determined to dismantle their opposition. Ponyville delivered clean hits while Fillydelphia got dirty. When Rainbow had the puck along the boards in the defensive zone, Caramelo came in with a check leading with his knee, digging it right into Rainbow’s wing. Rainbow let out a pained howl and she flicked the puck away. The puck trickled off to Rarity who brought it through the neutral zone. Caramela quickly skated up beside her and shoved her toward the boards. When they crashed up against the glass, Caramela gave Rarity a quick jarring headbutt out of a referee’s sight. Rarity lost focus and ultimately the puck as Fillydelphia brought it back down to the Ponyville zone.
Twilight skated up to delay Caramela’s stride so Caramela passed the puck over to Rose on the right faceoff circle. Rose wound up to shoot but Applejack came in with a crushing hit which sent Rose tumbling into the boards. Applejack grabbed the puck and headed the other way down the ice. Rarity and Fluttershy joined in on the three-on-two rush. Applejack brought it in over the blue line and veered off to the right boards. With Lily drawing in, Applejack snapped the puck across the zone to Rarity on the left faceoff circle. Daisy skated over to Rarity to block her path to the net. Fluttershy stepped over the blue line and was open. Rarity saw Fluttershy in the corner of her eye and passed it back. Fluttershy skated up to the pass and slapped a shot straight onto the net. The puck rose to the top corner, out of Apple Bloom’s leaping catch. The puck hit the back of the net and the goal light spun. Rarity and Applejack bombarded Fluttershy as she started celebrating.
”Goal Ponyville, scored by number 0, Fluttershy. Assisted by number 9 Rarity, and number 88, Applejack.”
The crowd raged with booing and more vulgarness as the rest of the Golden Leafs gave Fluttershy a congratulatory tap. Fillydelphia growled as they awaited the next puck drop. Play was back on and so was the physicality. The Golden Leafs were smashed by a Flyer whenever they touched the puck. Fillydelphia kept control in the Ponyville zone for two minutes and were able to get off a few shots but were denied by Pinkie. Twilight had the puck and nearly avoided a Caramelo hip check. She carried the puck up the ice and passed to Rainbow who stood at the blue line. Rainbow flew in and raced to the back of the net with Rose covering her closely. Rainbow kept having to skate through and found herself braced up against the corner boards as Rose and Caramela fought her for the puck. Caramela and Rose snuck in cheap shots and nudges as Rainbow held steady. Rarity made her way to the faceoff circle closest to Rainbow and slapped her stick. Rainbow heard the slaps and kicked the puck between her legs out of the corner. Rarity wound up as the puck came to her and fired off a one-timer. The puck shot like a bullet from a sniper rifle into the bottom left corner, too fast for Apple Bloom to block. The crowd roared again with an angry yell as Rarity laughed in delight for her goal. Rarity’s teammates met her at center ice to celebrate.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 9, Rarity. Assisted by number 20, Rainbow Dash, and number 42, Twilight Sparkle.”
Upset with allowing another goal, Fillydelphia huddled at the net before the next faceoff. Ponyville looked on, trying to figure out what dirty scheme the Flyers would come up with. Fortunately, only twenty seconds remained on the clock for the first period. The puck dropped and no further action occurred. The Flyers fan base voiced their displeasure as both teams drifted to their locker rooms. The Golden Leafs held a 2-0 lead, clearly more focused on winning than the Flyers for the time being.
---
In the locker room, Rainbow and Rarity rested ice packs on their various bruises as they were hit the most during the period. The Golden Leafs were happy with their lead but were irritated by Fillydelphia’s dirty shots. Rainbow was the first to speak while holding an ice pack to her wing.
“We were totally right. Fillydelphia is playing dirtier than a diamond dog tonight. We need to take it to them next period!”
“Ah’m ready to get dirty if you are, Rainbow,” said Applejack.
Rainbow grinned at her line mate. “Let’s do it A.J.!”
Twilight interjected with concern. “No. We will not stoop to their level. We only have a narrow lead. Fillydelphia just needs one goal to get right back in this game. We need to keep calm, no matter what the Flyers are doing to us.”
Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Way to be a party pooper, Twilight.”
“Trust me Rainbow. We will feel much better when we’re the more mature ponies and the better team than if we won by being as dirty as the Flyers are.”
Fluttershy and Rarity acceptingly nodded at Twilight’s declaration while Rainbow and Applejack shot each other a wink, keeping to their pact.
“Now let’s go back out there and play poised and mature!” shouted Twilight.
The Golden Leafs got up from their stalls and returned to the ice for the second period.
---
When the puck dropped for the second period, each Flyers skater stuck to their Ponyville counterpart and stayed close. Just like the first period, when a Golden Leaf touched the puck, a Flyer was right there with a hit. This time though, Applejack and Rainbow Dash fought back. When Rose had the puck in the corner and battling off Twilight, Rainbow swiftly barreled into the scrum and knocked Rose down with strong force. With Rose out of the picture, Twilight took the free puck and led a rush down to the Flyers’ zone. The Golden Leafs fired off a few shots on offense but Apple Bloom was able to stop them.
Back in the Ponyville zone, Caramelo had the puck on the right wing boards. Applejack saw him stalling so she began striding in. Caramelo couldn’t find an open teammate as Applejack drew closer. Seeing a charging Golden Leaf coming at him, Caramelo began skating toward the corner. Applejack followed him and was soon flank to flank with him. Applejack slammed Caramelo into the corner and fought for the puck. Cleverly blocking the referee’s sight with her body, Applejack quickly bit Caramelo in the ear. Caramelo yelped in pain as Applejack was able to pry the puck loose and take it down the ice.
Applejack carried the puck in and dumped it around the boards to Rarity on the other wing. An enraged Caramelo was back on the play and went to hit Applejack but Applejack was ready. She absorbed the blow and sent Caramelo to the ice with a thud. She stuck her tongue out to the fallen Flyer as she jumped back in on the play. Rarity passed the puck to the point where Fluttershy received it. With Rose coming in on her fast, Fluttershy passed over to Twilight along the blue line. Twilight saw an open lane to the net quickly closing in with the Flyers defense so she reared her head back for a quick shot. Twilight’s shot skidded along the ice and bounced up. Apple Bloom did not expect the puck’s awkward bounce and was caught out of position. The puck pounded the back of the net for another Ponyville goal. Twilight jumped in the air when she scored and was met by her friends. The crowd awoke from their bored lull to furiously boo at the celebratory Golden Leafs.
”Goal Ponyville, scored by number 42, Twilight Sparkle. Assisted by number 0, Fluttershy, and number 9, Rarity.”
Frustrated with their 3-0 deficit, Fillydelphia threw their sticks to the ice and to the boards. Ponyville returned to center ice and waited for the faceoff. When play came back underway, Fillydelphia no longer cared about the puck, they just wanted to hit. Rainbow won the faceoff back to Fluttershy and was immediately bowled over by Rose. Rose kept the pain train chugging along toward Fluttershy but Fluttershy was able to pass away in time. Applejack had the puck now but was also immediately hit by Caramelo. The Flyers took the puck into the Ponyville zone and dumped it to the corner. Twilight chased after it but Caramela was right there with a forceful nudge to win the puck away. When Caramela circled out of the corner toward the right faceoff circle, Rarity was there to skillfully poke the puck off her stick. The puck skipped over to Daisy at the point. Before the puck came to Daisy though, Applejack crashed into her to intercept the puck. The crowd booed as they thought Applejack interfered but play continued. Applejack had a breakaway entering the Fillydelphia zone. Applejack smiled at her baby sister in the net and shook her right shoulder for a fake. Completely biting on the shoulder shimmy, Apple Bloom dove to her left, leaving the net wide open. Applejack shifted left and blasted the puck in. Flyers fans’ booing doubled in volume as Applejack celebrated another Ponyville goal. Her teammates raced up to embrace her along the boards.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 88, Applejack. Assisted by number 9, Rarity.”
Ponyville had taken a 4-0 lead and weren’t looking back. Only twenty seconds now remained in the second period. Fillydelphia won the faceoff and Lily dumped the puck into the Ponyville corner. Fluttershy went after it but Caramelo was right on her tail to try to pry it away. Fluttershy was able to keep the puck at her skates despite the prodding stick of the Flyers’ right winger. As time ran down, Caramelo hit Fluttershy in the back of the hind leg with his stick. Fluttershy fell to her knees up against the boards. The second period horn sounded but something unforgiveable was about to unfold. With Fluttershy still prone on the ice against the boards, Rose continued charging toward the corner. The Golden Leafs all turned to Fluttershy and yelled to her as Rose sprung to attack. WHAM! Rose drove Fluttershy’s face into the boards, cracking Fluttershy’s visor along with forcefully pounding her nose into the solid, unyielding boards.
Fluttershy crumpled to the ice with an ear-piercing squeal. Like a lightning strike, Rainbow Dash bolted straight for Rose and threw her skates off ready for a fight. Before Rainbow could get a hoof on her, Rose was shielded by the referee who saw the attack developing. Fluttershy slowly got up and was crying, giant specks of blood dripping from her nose onto the ice. The EHL training staff rushed out onto the ice with a towel to clean up the mess and to escort the now distraught Fluttershy to the locker room. The other Golden Leafs fiercely threw down their sticks and were about to confront the Flyers until the other officials cut them off and sent them to their respective locker rooms.
---
When Twilight and friends arrived in the locker room, Fluttershy was being treated by a doctor. She had cotton stuffed up her nose, still leaking a tiny stream of blood. Fluttershy quietly let tears roll down her eyes as Spike tried fixing her visor.
The other Golden Leafs looked at Fluttershy with great concern. The doctor finished up his work and gave Fluttershy clearance to continue playing. Twilight trotted up to her hurt friend.
“Fluttershy, are you okay?”
Fluttershy tried to sniffle but was stuffed up with cotton. She could only quietly shake her head no. By this point, Rainbow Dash and Applejack were intensely scowling and beating down everything in sight out of pure rage for what happened at the end of the period. They angrily grumbled to themselves, letting some words slip out that would not normally pass through their lips. Twilight, Rarity, and Pinkie tended to Fluttershy. After consoling her friend and convincing her to play the rest of the game, Twilight rallied the troops.
“Golden Leafs. What we just witnessed was a violation of everything the sport of hockey stands for, much less the Equestria Hockey League. To let a vulnerable, defenseless player get mercilessly pounded into the boards is not only a cowardly attack on our pride and morals, but they hurt our friend! We will NOT stand here and let their dirty deed go UNPUNISHED! Forget being the better pony and being mature. We will treat Fillydelphia the same way they have treated us! Now let’s go get them.”
Fired up, Rainbow and Applejack gave a salute to Twilight and then gave each other a fierce headbutt with a war cry. Fluttershy gently wiped the remaining blood away and dried her eyes before going back out on the ice. The Golden Leafs marched to the ice for the 3rd period with great focus and with a purpose.
---
The Fillydelphia crowd whooped and hollered during the entire intermission, clearly pleased with the period-ending shenanigans that occurred. The Golden Leafs methodically skated to their positions for the faceoff, all wearing intense stoic expressions on their faces. The Flyers made their way to the faceoff circle with snarky, twisted smiles on theirs. The tension on the ice could be cut with a knife. With the crowd buzzing and the Golden Leafs churning internally with vengeful rage, the referee was ready to drop the puck for the 3rd period.
“Welcome back from the break. Gary Horne here alongside my partner Filly Clement to call all the third period action.”
“Gary, this third period is shaping up to be an intense one after the events that unfolded at the end of the second. I expect the Golden Leafs to come out with very high energy. That was a very disgusting way to end a period and I bet some words were said in the locker room.”
“We shall see soon enough what becomes of this third period. The referee is ready as both teams enter the faceoff circle. With the drop of the puck, the third period is underway! Rose wins the faceoff back to Lily. Lily fires the puck into the Ponyville zone as the Flyers give chase. Caramela zips into the corner with Twilight Sparkle right on her. They jostle for position to win the puck. Caramela breaks free from the defense and passes to twin brother Caramelo along the left wing boards. The Flyers zip around the Golden Leaf zone to get open. Caramelo bides his time waiting for a teammate to get open. The Ponyville defense is beginning to close in. Here comes the Ponyville center, Rainbow Dash to pressure the Fillydelphia forward. Oh boy, that Rainbow Dash is picking up major speed.”
CRASH!
“Rainbow Dash glides in and lands a HUGE check on Caramelo! Caramelo quickly gets to his feet and throws his skates off! He’s looking for a fight! Rainbow Dash appears to be accepting the invitation AND HERE THEY GOOOO! Rainbow Dash and Caramelo are squaring off along the boards!! They’re trading heavy blows but it looks like-OHHH MYYY!! APPLEJACK HAS SPEARED ROSE TO THE ICE AND NOW SHE’S WAILING AWAY!! ROSE IS COWERING LIKE A TURTLE AS APPLEJACK IS POUNDING ON THE FLYERS’ CENTER!! The Ponyville right winger is extracting revenge for the vicious hit on her teammate from the last period! The crowd is crazily eating this up as there are two fights simultaneously rumbling-NOW THE OTHERS ARE GETTING IN ON THE ACTION TOO!! CARAMELA IS TANGLED UP WITH RARITY AND HERE COME THE GOALIES! PINKIE PIE AND APPLE BLOOM ARE MEETING AT CENTER ICE!….but they’re not fighting. They are trading chest bumps and the young Apple Bloom is holding her ground on the much bigger and puffier Pinkie Pie! BUT NOW DAISY IS SQUARING OFF WITH TWILIGHT SPARKLE!! KICKS AND PUNCHES ARE BEING THROWN ALL OVER! AN OLD-FASHIONED LINE BRAWL HAS ERUPTED HERE AT THE WELSH FARGO CENTER!! PANDEMONIUM AND ANARCHY IS RULING NOW AS THIS ARENA IS BLOWING UP!!
The referee and officials scampered around trying to separate each individual fight. The crowd’s cheering brought the arena to deafening levels. After some last minute tugging and pulling, each team was separated and was being held to their respective ends of the ice. The Golden Leafs’ fighters had their jerseys ruffled and their pads askew. Rainbow and Applejack defiantly shook their hooves to the crowd and then gave each other a hoof bump. Twilight and Rarity smiled proudly as they hugged Fluttershy.
The head referee was now in the penalty box, listening to instructions over a set of earphones from the scorer’s table. After a minute of conversation, the referee stepped back out onto the ice. He faced the crowd to make an announcement.
“This game is now postponed. Ponyville wins four to zero. Both teams please proceed to your respective locker rooms.”
Booing exploded from the fans as they were not happy with the referee’s decree. The Golden Leafs tapped each other on the head in celebration for their win before heading off the ice to heavy booing and debris being thrown at them. Rainbow laughed and threw some of the garbage back into the stands as she exited. The Golden Leafs made their way back to the locker room, proud of their defense of their pride and their friend.
---
In the locker room, Twilight and company were amped up from the brawl. Adrenaline was still rushing through their veins as they shared headbutts and hoof bumps. However, their energy dropped off immediately when the EHL Commissioner, Gary Bettpony, stormed into the room.
“What in Celestia’s name were you thinking out there?!? Never before has the EHL seen such complete disregard for sportsmanship! This will never happen again, do you hear me? I am fining your team ten thousand bits and who’s number eighty-eight?”
Applejack cautiously raised her hoof. “I am, sir.”
“I saw what you did out there, little missy! You turned a small scuffle into an all out war. I am suspending you for your next game! You are not to travel with your team either!”
Commissioner Bettpony angrily turned and left before the Golden Leafs could protest. Applejack suddenly felt a huge weight fall upon her, the weight of guilt. Twilight tried consoling her now suspended friend but Applejack didn’t want any of it. It felt as if the air was taken out of the room as the Golden Leafs quietly cleaned up and packed their things.
With a furious mob of Flyers fans waiting outside the arena, a team of security ponies cleared a path for Twilight and friends to enter their carriage back to Ponyville.
---
In the carriage ride home, the Golden Leafs tried to figure out what to do for their next game. Applejack silently stared down at the floor in disbelief at her suspension.
“What are we going to do without Applejack?” asked Rainbow.
Twilight sighed as she ran a million ideas through her head. “I don’t know. We can’t play with only four skaters.”
“How about we hold an audition? We have all the ponies in Ponyville try out and then we have a giant party after!” Pinkie suggested with glee.
Twilight paused to mull over Pinkie’s idea. “That could work. But then we would need to teach them how to play forward very quickly. There’s not much time before our next game in Cloudsdale.”
Fluttershy, with her nose still packaged with cotton, spoke up for the first time since the hit. “How about Spike? He’s been with us all along and watched all of our games.”
Spike was fast asleep on the carriage floor. Twilight looked at him and started warming up to the idea. “That’s not a bad idea, Fluttershy. He’s seen us practice and was always with me when I was studying everything about the sport. I’ll send a message to the EHL offices in the morning.”
The Golden Leafs’ carriage rolled on until it finally arrived in Ponyville in the middle of the night. Twilight tucked Spike into bed before going over the schedule with her friends. Twilight would message the EHL the next morning and they would practice a few days later. A trip to Cloudsdale was looming at the end of the week for a date with the Red Wings. The girls also pondered how they would all be able to step hoof in Cloudsdale since only two of them were pegasus ponies. The Golden Leafs shared goodbyes and parted toward their respective homes.
The Golden Leafs stepped into unfamiliar territory by physically fighting with their opponent. However, this small slip of character did not concern them as they fought with the purpose of defending a hurt friend. Lost in the tension-filled brawl was the fact the Golden Leafs won their third game. The second half of the regular season started with a big bang and will only grow from here on out.
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars from Ponyville @ Fillydelphia
*Rarity (PGL)
** Pinkie Pie (PGL)
*** Twilight Sparkle (PGL)
EHL Transactions
---
8/24/11 – Manehattan Rangers release D Sapphire Shores, purchase contract of D Bon-Bon
8/29/11 – Fillydelphia Flyers C Rose suspended one game
8/29/11 – Fillydelphia Flyers fined 10,000 bits for actions detrimental to the spirit of the Equestria Hockey League
8/29/11 – Ponyville Golden Leafs RW Applejack suspended one game
8/29/11 – Ponyville Golden Leafs fined 10,000 bits for actions detrimental to the spirit of the Equestria Hockey League
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
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Appleloosa 3, MANEHATTAN 1
CANTERLOT 1, Cloudsdale 0
EHL Standings
---
Appleloosa 5-1
Manehattan 3-3
Cloudsdale 3-3
Canterlot 3-3
Ponyville 3-3
Fillydelphia 1-5
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XFizzle
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1005
| 9 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-24T22:14:14+00:00
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2011-09-24T22:14:14+00:00
| 2,926 |
Equestria Hockey League Part IX – Wingin’ It
by XFizzle
The following day after the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ tension-packed, fight-filled victory over the Fillydelphia Flyers, Twilight Sparkle had administrative duties to perform. Earlier that morning, the other Golden Leafs stopped by to donate their share of the team’s 10,000 bit fine to the EHL. Applejack offered to pay more than her share for she was still feeling guilty about receiving a suspension and putting the team in a tough spot. Twilight sent the fine payment along with a message asking if Spike could substitute for Applejack in the Golden Leafs’ lineup for their next game at Cloudsdale.
Twilight nervously paced inside the treehouse, waiting for the EHL’s response. Spike was casually lounging in a chair near the fireplace, reading a superhero comic. Twilight periodically looked over at Spike to see if he had belched a new message. Feeling small vibrations from Twilight’s pacing, Spike peered up over his comic to see what her problem was.
“What are you so nervous about, Twilight? It’s just a letter.”
“It’s not just a letter, Spike, this is a very crucial response that could change everything for this week! If you are not allowed to play for Applejack, then we’re going to have to hold emergency auditions, then we’ll have to pick someone, then we’ll have to teach them, then that totally cuts down my scouting and review time for Cloudsdale. UGH! Why haven’t they responded yet?!”
Spike slowly closed his comic and hopped up from his chair. “I’m sure everything’s going to be okay, Twilight. They’re probably just busy sorting out everything from last night. I mean you guys did make a pretty big mess of things.”
Twilight’s nervousness turned into irritation. “You’re not helping!”
Spike let out a yawn and scratched his stomach. “I’m going to go take a nap. I’ll let you know if anything pops up.”
Twilight tossed herself at Spike’s feet. “No! I need you to stay awake so I can get the EHL’s response! Please?”
Spike sighed. “Alright, but as soon as it comes, I’m going to sleep-*BURP*”
Almost right on cue, Spike belched out a scroll. Twilight leapt up from the floor and nabbed it quickly. Anxious to read the response, she fumbled her hooves trying to open the seal. She gave up on opening the scroll manually used her magic to unroll the EHL’s message.
”From the Offices of the Equestria Hockey League:
Dear Ponyville Golden Leafs:
Your fine payment of 10,000 bits has been accepted and processed. Also, enclosed in this message is a one-game contract to sign Spike, who has been declared eligible to play by the EHLPA (Equestria Hockey League Players’ Assocation). Please send back the signed contract within the next two hours to allow for delivery and processing time. Thank you.
Signed,
Coltin Campbell
Executive Vice President & Director of Hockey Operations”
Twilight happily detached the one-game contract from the main letter and levitated it over to Spike along with a quill. Twilight smiled desperately at Spike, expecting him to sign the contract and to be on their way. Spike looked at Twilight and then swiftly glanced over the terms on the contract. He clutched the quill and went to sign. Before the ink hit the paper, he looked up at Twilight one last time with a playful grin. Twilight responded with a look of confusion. Spike proceeded to chuckle and put the quill down.
“No way! I have some demands first.”
Twilight’s confusion was blown away by anger. “WHAT?! What demands? What are you talking about?”
“Well, I feel like I haven’t been properly thanked for all my hard work so far this season. I’m always at the rink early setting up the locker room, missing out on all the fun stuff you ponies do before the game. I’m always spending the whole intermission fixing pads and skates and taping sticks. And finally, when we’re playing at home, I have to do the announcing on top of the equipment stuff too.”
Spike’s words sunk in for Twilight and she began to feel guilty that the team had not recognized his hard work. She calmed herself down and started to apologize.
“I’m sorry, Spike. I’m sorry we haven’t shown our thanks and appreciation for everything you’ve done for us so far. You have been working hard and I certainly appreciate it. What are these demands of yours? I’ll do whatever I can to fulfill them.”
“That’s more like it! Now, before I sign this contract, I want you to promise me that I will receive double, no, triple the amount of gems for meals! A growing dragon’s gotta eat, you know.”
“Alright, I promise. Now go ahead and sign that contract please!”
“I’m not finished. My second demand is that I get to sleep in until whenever I want. It’s winter, Twilight! There’s no reason to be up at dawn. I mean, seriously. Are you an old mare?”
“Ha ha,” sarcastically laughed Twilight. “Fine, you will receive triple the amount of gems and I’ll let you sleep in. Now hand over that signed contract!”
Twilight reached for the contract but Spike pulled it away. He cleared his throat and announced another demand. “Lastly, I want a kiss from Rarity.”
Twilight slapped her hoof on her forehead at Spike’s ridiculous request. “Spike! What does any of this have to do with hockey?”
“Nuh uh, Twilight. No kiss, no signing. Do you want to forfeit your game against Cloudsdale?”
Twilight grunted out of frustration and sent out a horn-transmitted message to Rarity to call her back over to the treehouse. Nearly ten minutes later, a knock came at the door. Twilight rushed to open it and let Rarity in. Rarity was wearing her best winter saddle with matching scarf, her mane glistening from the icy winter wind. She was bewildered as to why Twilight called her over.
“Hello Twilight, dear. What can I help you with?”
“Well, Rarity, Spike here has a demand that he wants fulfilled before he signs the one-game contract.”
“Ah ha! What do you desire, Spike? A new pair of gloves? A sweater perhaps? Maybe some tiny winter boots for your tiny feet?”
Twilight leaned over to whisper in Rarity’s ear the actual demand. Rarity laughed heartily while Spike sprayed his mouth with mint spray and slicked his scales back.
“That shall be no problem at all, Twilight. I must say I am quite flattered. Come here you little romantic dragon you.” Rarity winked at Twilight mischievously before advancing toward Spike.
Spike giggled and clapped his hands as Rarity approached. Twilight blankly stared on, unable to process what exactly was unfolding in front of her eyes. Rarity leaned in toward Spike as Spike went to his tip toes, lips puckered and eyes closed. With Spike’s eyes closed, Rarity magically teleported her pet cat Opal to her. Spike kissed Opal on the nose and Opal was quickly teleported back home before the tricked dragon could open his eyes. Twilight tried holding in her laughter but was busting at the seams. Rarity opened her eyes, pretending to have received the kiss while Spike melted with bliss, not knowing what his lips really touched. Twilight, still holding in her laughter, trotted over and shook Spike out of his love trance.
“Ready to sign that contract now?”
Spike grabbed the quill and began to sign the paper. “Sure thing, ladies!”
The contract was finally signed and Spike fired it away to the EHL offices. Rarity and Twilight shared another wink and a laugh. With Spike now officially a part of the Golden Leafs roster, the team proceeded with their scheduled practice the next day.
---
The next day came and the Golden Leafs met at Ponyville Pond for practice. Instead of being in the locker room beforehand to prep the girls’ equipment, Spike happily strolled alongside Twilight into the arena. Earlier in the day, Applejack took the liberty of grabbing the teams’ equipment and was now at the arena doing Spike’s usual job of preparing for practice. Twilight and Spike greeted Applejack as they entered the locker room.
“Hello Applejack! Thanks for coming today to take over for Spike and to teach him. It’s too bad you can’t come with us to Cloudsdale for the game though.”
“It’s okay, Twilight. While y’all are gone I’ma go around Ponyville and shovel some snow with Big Macintosh’s plow. I had ta’ take quite a bit out of the farm’s funds to help pay the fine so I’m gonna try to make some money back.”
“Yeah, that was certainly big of you to pitch in more than your share.”
“Well, I am puttin’ the team in a sticky situation. It’s the least I could do,” said Applejack as she lassoed over a box of new hockey gear. “Here ya go, Spike! A set of baby dragon-sized pads.”
Spike’s eyes lit up with delight. He dove head-first into the box. “Thanks Applejack!”
As Spike and Twilight dressed, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie showed up together. Spike gave Rarity a wave to which she blew back a kiss, causing Twilight to bottle up her laughter again from the day before. The Golden Leafs put on their equipment and were soon out on the ice for practice.
Twilight led the team through some skating and stretching drills before it was time to talk strategy. Stressing that their passes had been weak and lackadaisical lately, each skater teamed up with another to practice passing. Off in the other end of the ice, Applejack was talking to Spike, lecturing him on the duties and responsibilities of the right wing. Spike pretended to listen but already knew what Applejack was telling him.
When the passing drills were over, the Golden Leafs had another mini-scrimmage with the magical dummy players used before. Without a hitch, the Golden Leafs were buzzing around and passing with ease. It appeared Spike had seamlessly taken over Applejack’s role in terms of passing and shooting. The Golden Leafs were still lacking a strong, checking forward however. With each successful series on offense, Spike’s ego began to inflate. His cockiness moved him to start taking plays off and lazily drift along the play. Twilight noticed Spike’s diminishing effort and blew her whistle.
“Spike? What happened to you? You’re not even skating anymore.”
“I’m fine, Twilight! Did you see how many goals we’ve scored? These fake ponies are certainly looking like dummies now.”
Twilight paused for a moment to think of a way to motivate Spike to work harder. When an echo reverberated throughout the cavernous, empty arena, a light bulb clicked over Twilight’s head.
“Well Spike, if you don’t want to play hard. I know someone who will.”
“Oh yeah? Who’s that?”
“Oh, you know. A particularly helpful creature whom I can have fly here in no time. You know. Owlowiscious.”
Spike immediately straightened up and began skating swiftly around the ice. “No way! I don’t want that owl coming here! I’m ready to go again. Drop the puck!”
Twilight smiled when her motivational tactic worked and started the play once again. After an hour of scrimmaging, the practice came to a close. The Golden Leafs trotted off to the locker room and cleaned up.
---
When Twilight and friends were walking away from the arena, a yellow and greyish blur flew past them, nearly bowling them over. It was the Cloudsdale defensepony Ditzy Doo performing her day job. She crashed down to Ponyville while delivering a package from the EHL.
“I brought you your muffin delivery!” said the walleyed pony.
Twilight accepted the box. “Uhh, thank you? But we didn’t order any muffins. We didn’t order anything.”
“These muffins are compliments of the Equestria Hockey League. Use them wisely!”
Before any more questions could be asked, Ditzy Doo flew back toward Cloudsdale.
Twilight backed her friends away and slowly opened the box with her magic, fearing for a prank. It was not a prank, but a box full of winged skates. Along with the skates was a note.
”These winged skates will allow your team to fully function and perform in Cloudsdale. They are charmed with a lifting spell to help you travel into the city as well. Please return these skates when you are back on the ground.
- Equestria Hockey League”
Fluttershy, Rarity, Twilight, and Pinkie Pie grabbed the skates and tried them on instantly. Fluttershy and Rarity admired the skates for their tiny, adorable wings while Rainbow Dash was unimpressed and loudly boasted that her wings were bigger and better. Twilight counted the pairs and saw that only four were included, enough for the wingless members of the team. Fluttershy became saddened when she realized she would have to wear her normal skates. Twilight used her magic to create a pair of tiny wings for Fluttershy’s skates, making Fluttershy squeal for their cuteness. With their transportation to Cloudsdale literally falling into their laps, the Golden Leafs planned out their game day schedule and departed for the evening.
---
Game day arrived and the new edition of the Golden Leafs met at the treehouse before departing for Cloudsdale. Applejack also came over, with her snow shovel, to see her friends off. Twilight, Pinkie, Rarity, and Spike put on their winged skates and were led by Rainbow and Fluttershy up towards Cloudsdale. The Golden Leafs waved goodbye to Applejack on the ground as she quickly shrank out of sight. The tiny wings on the skates flapped furiously to propel the non-pegasus ponies onward. The flight did not last long however because Cloudsdale was rapidly coming into view. With excitement, Rainbow Dash bolted on ahead and Fluttershy stayed back to direct her friends. Before long, the Golden Leafs reached the cloudy shoreline of the floating city and were walking toward Foal Louis Arena, home of the Cloudsdale Red Wings.
The Golden Leafs’ arrival and hovering into the city turned many heads as they swaggered through the main streets. As they closed in on the arena, the city was glowing red, reflecting the colors of their hockey team. Many pegasi wearing their Red Wings jerseys yelled out to the Golden Leafs as they continued on their path. Foal Louis Arena grew before them and they saw the visitor’s entrance in sight. Also in sight were four older ponies, two stallions and two mares, standing outside the entrance doors. One couple had faded rainbow manes while the other couple had pink manes with tiny grey streaks running throughout.
“Mommy?! Daddy?!” shrieked Fluttershy. Fluttershy’s wings sprung open and she flew into her parents’ waiting forelegs with glee.
“Oh come here pumpkin! We’ve missed you so much!” said Fluttershy’s mother. Fluttershy’s dad trotted around and planted a kiss upon his daughter’s forehead.
Rainbow Dash unenergetically floated over toward her parents. “Hey mom. Dad.”
Mr. Dash, in his stocky stance, stood tall and emotionless while the trim and slender Mrs. Dash smothered her daughter with a hug. “Hello Rainbow! It’s so wonderful to see you!” Mr. Dash put his muscled up leg around his daughter’s neck and broke out of his robotic state by giving Rainbow a noogie and messing her mane. “Welcome back kiddo!”
Embarrassed, Rainbow tried escaping her father’s clutches as the Fluttershies continued hugging and nuzzling. The other Golden Leafs fondly watched on as the parental reunion calmed. Finally, Fluttershy flew over to her friends and introduced them.
“Mom, dad, these are our friends! Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Spike!”
The Dashes and Fluttershies exchanged pleasantries with their daughters’ friends and then came together.
“When we heard that the Golden Leafs were playing the Red Wings tonight, we knew we had to come down to the arena to see our girls,” said Mrs. Dash.
“We are so proud that our girls are big time hockey stars! Isn’t that right?” exclaimed Mr. Dash as he nudged Fluttershy’s dad in the wing. “Oh yes, we are very proud. We’re also grateful you’re not hurt…hockey is a rough sport.”
Fluttershy tried easing her father’s concerns. “Oh yes, I’ve been taking care of myself. Right girls?”
Fluttershy winked to her friends. The Golden Leafs and Spike looked to each other and shook their heads yes which made the Fluttershies relieved.
Mrs. Dash trotted up and licked her hoof, wiping a smudge from Rainbow’s face. “Dashie dear, your brothers are also coming to watch you tonight. You better play hard or you’ll never hear the end of it!”
Rainbow groaned as she brushed her mother’s hoof away. “Ugh! Why are those blockheads coming? I thought they were busy working at the weather factory?”
“Oh you know your brothers. They love to watch their little sister compete. You’re the last one in the family to be playing in any sport, kiddo. My football days are over, your mother’s track and field career is toast, and both your brothers had to quit their football careers to work,” said the Dash patriarch. “The family legacy is on your shoulders now.”
“Oh, awesome,” said Rainbow Dash with sarcasm.
Mrs. Fluttershy stepped toward the Golden Leafs with a warm smile. “Well, we should let you go so you can prepare for your big game. We’ll be cheering for you! Normally we are big Red Wings fans but I think we can make an exception tonight.”
“Thanks! We won’t let you down!” replied Twilight as the Dashes and Fluttershies gave their daughters one more set of hugs and kisses.
“Alright kids. Have fun out there! Play hard!” yelled Mr. Dash as he escorted his wife and the Fluttershies toward the arena entrance.
“Bye mommy! Bye daddy!” shouted Fluttershy as Rainbow rolled her eyes and weakly waved at her parents.
---
As the Golden Leafs began their march into the arena, Rarity hovered next to Rainbow and poked fun at her. “Awww, does widdle Dashie miss her famiwy?”
“No! They’re so embarrassing! There’s a reason why I spend most of my time in Ponyville,” said Rainbow as she pushed Rarity away.
“I’m just curious, what do your parents do Fluttershy?” asked Twilight.
Fluttershy lifted her head proudly. “Oh, my dad is a Cloudsdale city accountant while my mom is an elementary teacher. They’re just so gentle and nice.”
By this time, the Golden Leafs entered the arena and were steps away from their locker room. Walking down the hallway, Twilight and company passed many murals and paintings depicting the grand history of the Red Wings franchise. Eleven Celestia Cups along with some Red Wings players of old lined the walls in bright silver and red paint. At the end of the hallway was the visitor’s locker room. The Golden Leafs entered the room and immediately started dressing. Fluttershy sung a happy tune to herself while Rainbow mumbled through her teeth as they readied. Once every Golden Leaf was fully dressed, Twilight addressed her team.
“Alright team. Let’s remember what we did in practice and take it to the Red Wings! They’re an agile team so we’re going to need our legs out there tonight. We also need to watch for Spitfire. She’s currently the highest scorer in the league so we will need to cover her closer than ever. Are we ready?”
“Ready as chocolate frosted cupcakes on a windowsill in a rain storm!” yelled Pinkie.
Everyone but Pinkie shrugged with puzzlement. Twilight took a while to find words to say. “Uhh, ooookay. I’ll take that as a yes. Now let’s go!”
One by one the Golden Leafs marched out of the locker room in their sparkling white road jerseys, ready to try for their fourth victory.
---
Foal Louis Arena, named for the famous pony boxer Foal Louis, was rocking with Red Wings fans. A sea of red blanketed the bleachers, causing the Golden Leafs to gaze around the arena in awe. High in the rafters were many banners of the Red Wings’ achievements including: their eleven Celestia Cup banners, a number of Princess’ Trophy banners for having the best regular season record, and the retired numbers of former greats including the greatest Red Wings captain of all time, Steve Yzermare. Also hanging up in the rafters was a giant stuffed purple octopus. Spike pointed it out and the Golden Leafs debated about why such a silly thing was up there. Fluttershy spotted her parents with Rainbow’s family in the stands and waved to them. The Fluttershies and Mrs. Dash waved back while Mr. Dash nodded with a grin. Rainbow’s brothers tried yelling out to their sister but Rainbow didn’t look, keeping her focus towards the ice.
A horn blared out and the doors to the rink opened, letting both teams out onto the ice. The crowd stood up and applauded as their Red Wings flew out onto the ice in their home reds, led by Spitfire. Both teams skated circles around their ends as the countdown clock wound down to zero. In the Golden Leafs’ end, Spike and the non-pegasus skaters were showing a tiny bit of difficulty in their skating, being thrown off by their winged skates.
The clock reached zero and another horn rang out. The referee grabbed a puck and drifted toward the center faceoff circle where the Red Wings’ logo glistened with the word “HOCKEYCLOUD” imposed over it in sparkling black paint. The Golden Leafs and the Red Wings met at the circle ready to begin. Scootaloo and Pinkie Pie raised their gloves and the puck was dropped to start game number seven of the regular season.
---
Right away, Cloudsdale controlled the puck in the Ponyville zone. Twilight, Rarity, and Spike were still getting the hang of their special skates while Rainbow and Fluttershy were able to play normally. The Red Wings zipped the puck to each other and fired when they had an open lane. Pinkie held steady early and stopped three shots. When play resumed, the Golden Leafs finally won control and carried the puck down to the Cloudsdale end. Their control was short-lived as Gilda muscled Spike off the puck and took it back into the Ponyville zone. Gilda moved the puck down into the corner where she was met by Twilight. Twilight tried getting her stick on the puck but Gilda’s massive frame kept Twilight at bay. Ditzy called for the puck at the blue line and Gilda pushed it to her. Ditzy faked a shot which caused Rainbow to hit the ice for a block. With Rainbow down, Spitfire peeled around Spike in the right faceoff circle and was now open. Ditzy shoveled the puck to Spitfire who barreled straight on net. Pinkie prepped herself for Spitfire’s attempt. Spitfire nudged her head up toward the top left corner but slapped the puck down to the bottom right, fooling Pinkie. The puck clanged around the back of the net while the Red Wings’ goal horn bellowed out. Wings fans jumped from their seats to cheer and Spitfire was met by her teammates.
”Red Wings GOOOAAALLL scored by number 13, SPITFIIIIREEEE! Assisted by Ditzy Doo! And number 44, Gilda!”
Right after Spitfire’s goal, Rainbow made the mistake of glancing over at her family. Mr. Dash shook his head in disappointment while Rainbow’s brothers laughed at the Golden Leafs’ misfortune. Rainbow adjusted her helmet strap and tightened her bite on her stick. She made a beeline for the center circle, wanting for play to resume quickly to rectify this early deficit. Play was back on and Rainbow won the faceoff back to Twilight. Twilight dumped it into the Cloudsdale zone where Rarity chased after it. Rarity was nudged into the glass by Soarin. Impatient with Rarity’s play along the boards, Rainbow swooped in and grabbed the puck from her teammate. Rainbow barreled right toward Pucks and overpowered the veteran defensepony. Rainbow fired a shot right straight at Scootaloo in net. Fearing the bullet of a shot coming at her, Scootaloo dodged out of the way and the puck slammed the back of the net forcefully. The goal light flickered and the crowd groaned. Rainbow celebrated behind the net with her teammates coming over to tap her on the helmet.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 20, Rainbow Dash. Assisted by number 9, Rarity, and number 42, Twilight Sparkle.”
This time Dash’s family was beaming with delight at Rainbow’s goal. Rainbow eased up but was still eager to resume play. The puck dropped but this time Cloudsdale gained control. Soarin took the puck into the Ponyville zone, covered by Spike. Spike did a good job pressuring Soarin and forced him into the corner. Pucks came in closer along the boards to give Soarin an outlet. Soarin passed the puck out from the corner to Pucks, causing Spike to back off Soarin and start pressuring Pucks. However, Spike’s shift allowed Soarin to crash the net unopposed since Fluttershy was too preoccupied watching Spitfire. With Spike closing in, Pucks fired on net. Pinkie lined herself up with the shot but Soarin skillfully deflected the puck downward. The puck bounced off the ice and flew in through Pinkie’s five-hole. The goal horn shouted out again and a roar came from the sea of Red Wings faithful.
”Red Wings GOOOAAALLL scored by number 96, SOARIIIIN! Assisted by number 5, Pucks!”
Rainbow slammed her stick down on the ice in frustration as Cloudsdale reclaimed the lead 2-1. Fluttershy glanced over to her parents who had a pained look on their faces as the Golden Leafs let in another goal. Fluttershy looked down and slowly drifted to the faceoff circle where Rainbow was already waiting. Rainbow won the ensuing faceoff back to Fluttershy who tried skating it up through the neutral zone. Rainbow saw Spitfire coming in on Fluttershy so she doubled back to take the puck away and control it herself. Rainbow tried crashing the net but Pucks and Ditzy double-teamed her. Seeing the puck sitting still at Rainbow’s skates, Fluttershy sneakily skated up and fired a shot from between Rainbow’s legs. Being screened by the wall her defense put up, Scootaloo wasn’t ready for the shot as it clanged the left side post and ricocheted into the net. Rainbow turned around in shock and saw a smiling Fluttershy as Ponyville’s goal light shone again. Rainbow hugged her teammate as the other Golden Leafs skated in to celebrate.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 0, Fluttershy. Assisted by number 20, Rainbow Dash.”
Fluttershy skated to the boards in front of her parents and softly tapped on the glass. Her parents reached over the ponies sitting in the first row below them and put their hooves up to the glass where their daughter’s skate was. Mr. Dash gave Fluttershy’s dad a hearty pat on the back which nearly knocked him to the floor. With two minutes remaining in the first period, the referee called both teams to the center for the next faceoff.
The Golden Leafs had control of the puck again and were able to fire off a few more low shots but were denied by Scootaloo. Cloudsdale regrouped and carried the puck into the Ponyville zone for the final minute. Ditzy had the puck on the blue line until she dumped it into the corner for Gilda. Gilda fought off Twilight and Rarity as they attempted to pin her on the boards. Spitfire swooped by to free the puck but missed. Gilda gathered up her strength to power out of Twilight and Rarity’s hold and swung the puck back to Ditzy. Ditzy shoved it to Pucks who then dumped it to the other corner for Soarin. Spike jumped up into the passing lane and intercepted the puck. He wobbled in his winged skates and was caught by Spitfire who swiftly came up over him to steal the puck back. Spitfire drew in Twilight and Fluttershy in the slot as they tried to break Spitfire’s stride. Ditzy lined up behind Spitfire and slapped her stick on the ice. Spitfire passed behind herself while Ditzy wound up for a one-timer. Rarity dove to try to poke the puck away but Ditzy ripped off the one-time shot. Ditzy’s shot was too fast for Pinkie who missed with her glove hoof. The crowd erupted with a yell as the Red Wings celebrated their third goal of the evening. A handful of muffins were thrown onto the ice and were swept up by the ice crew mules. Ditzy quickly skated over and picked one up, eating the celebratory muffin in a single chomp.
”Red Wings GOOOAAAALLL scored by DIIITZY DOOOO! Assisted by number 13, Spitfire!”
The latest Red Wings goal was a tough one to swallow as only ten seconds remained in the period. The Golden Leafs won the faceoff and waited out the end of the period, back down in a 3-2 hole. The period horn blared and the Cloudsdale crowd applauded their team off the ice. The Golden Leafs looked down as they skated off toward their locker room.
---
Rainbow Dash nervously paced inside the locker room. She began questioning herself in her mind about how to carry on. Does she try to carry the team? She would make her family proud but on the other hand she would be showing up the Wonderbolts in their own arena. Twilight tried standing in front of the team but was knocked over by Rainbow’s pacing. Twilight grabbed Rainbow by the cheeks and tried shaking her out of her overanalyzing state. Rainbow’s eyes rattled around and she appeared to calm down. As soon as Twilight let go, Rainbow started up pacing again and couldn’t be stopped.
“Rainbow, you look loco in the coco right now! Why are you pretending to be a train?” asked Pinkie.
“Because I have to do well in front of my family or else I’ll be disgracing the Dash family name! But if I do well, I’ll be outshining Spitfire and Soarin and they’ll get upset and never invite me to become a Wonderbolt! And I miss Applejack!...No offense, Spike.”
Spike munched down on an intermission gem snack. He replied with his mouth full, “None taken. I’m just doin’ this for the gems and the sleep.”
Twilight snagged Spike’s snack from his hand and turned toward Rainbow. “Well you need to calm down if we’re going to take back control of this game! We need everypony, and Spike, to focus! Forget who’s sitting in the stands. Just worry about the Red Wings and beating them. Got it?”
Rarity, Spike, Fluttershy, and Pinkie nodded but Rainbow still continued pacing back and forth. Twilight directed her team back out onto the ice and had to use her head to nudge Rainbow out the door.
---
The second period jumped out to a quick start, much like the first. Ponyville controlled the puck despite Rainbow’s erratic play. Twilight had the puck and fired a quick shot on net but it was blocked by Pucks. The rebound came back to Spike on the right wing. Soarin skated over to cut down Spike but Spike flung the puck toward the center in desperation. Watching the play developing, Rainbow scurried toward the loose puck and shot right away, not even aiming at the net. The Golden Leafs caught a break as Rainbow’s shot hit Ditzy in the helmet and re-directed into the net between Scootaloo’s blocker and pad. Rainbow didn’t realize she scored at first and frantically searched for the puck behind the net until her teammates mobbed her. It then clicked in her head that she scored and she pumped her hoof in the air. Her family applauded which helped ease Rainbow a tiny bit. She then looked over to Spitfire and Soarin who were now wearing a determined scowl, re-igniting Rainbow’s worries.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 20, Rainbow Dash. Assisted by number 2, Spike, and number 42, Twilight Sparkle.”
The game was moving at a frantic pace. When the puck dropped, Cloudsdale deviated from their usual finesse play and began getting physical hoping to slow the Golden Leafs down. Spike was the recipient of many checks as the Red Wings were bigger and stronger than him. Twilight deftly avoided the Red Wing forwards as she carried the puck into the Cloudsdale zone. Fluttershy stayed on the blue line and received the puck. She drifted over toward the boards as her teammates battled for position. Remembering Fluttershy’s massive hit on her in Ponyville, Gilda charged at her with a vengeance. Fluttershy saw Gilda coming and braced herself since there was nowhere to go. Gilda followed through with her hit and splattered Fluttershy into the glass. Fluttershy’s parents gasped in horror as they saw their daughter fall to the ice. Mr. Fluttershy went to yell but his wife beat him to the punch and was raging from her seat.
“HOW DARE YOU HIT MY DAUGHTER! I’M COMING DOWN THERE TO TEACH YOU A LESSON!”
The referee saw the hit and raised his hoof for the penalty. Mrs. Dash tried holding back Mrs. Fluttershy as Fluttershy was helped up by her teammates. Rainbow couldn’t help but laugh at the scene. She tapped Fluttershy on the helmet. “Hah! So that’s where you get your rare outbursts from.” Fluttershy shot back a small grin and nodded. The Cloudsdale crowd booed as Gilda entered the penalty box, receiving two minutes for boarding.
The Ponyville power play started off cold as Cloudsdale kept up their hitting and forced turnovers. After a dump down the ice, Rarity went to retrieve the puck from Pinkie. Rarity went to pass to Twilight who stood at the blue line but Spitfire nudged Twilight and intercepted the puck. Reacting quickly, Twilight poked her stick out to steal the puck away from Spitfire back to Rarity. Rarity carried the puck in herself and halted at the left faceoff circle. Rainbow glided behind the net but was shadowed by Soarin. With Pucks deciding to apply pressure, Rarity faked a shot to make the Cloudsdale penalty kill bunch up to block. Rarity passed to Twilight who reared her head back for a shot. The puck flew off Twilight’s stick and was closing in on Scootaloo. Scootaloo tried to get her glove up in time but the puck was too fast. The goal light flickered and Twilight began her celebration. Boos and groans poured down from the crowd as Gilda angrily slammed the penalty box door behind her during her exit.
”Ponyville power play goal, scored by number 42, Twilight Sparkle. Assisted by number 9, Rarity.”
The Golden Leafs claimed their first lead of the evening and were pleased with their effort this period. Before play resumed, Twilight stressed to her team that it would be very big to score another goal before the second period ended, like the Red Wings did in the first period. Rainbow Dash agreed although in the back of her mind she was still conflicted about notching another goal at the Wonderbolts’ expense.
The puck dropped and the last 40 seconds ticked away. Spitfire won the faceoff back to Ditzy who passed back up to Gilda. Gilda fired the puck into the Ponyville zone but Pinkie came out of the net to stop it. Pinkie blasted the puck along the boards where Soarin stepped in to intercept. Rainbow caught Soarin by surprise and picked the puck up. With time quickly running out, Rainbow ramped up her speed and bolted through the neutral zone. Pucks backpeddled to keep up but Rainbow was too fast. Scootaloo skated up to cut down the angle. With both Scootaloo and Pucks encroaching upon her, Rainbow flicked the puck backwards hoping a teammate would be there. In fact there was, as Rarity trailed behind and stepped into a slapshot. Rarity sniped the puck into the upper corner for a backbreaking goal with little time remaining in the period. Rainbow spun around to greet Rarity and the other Golden Leafs closed in to share their delight.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 9, Rarity. Assisted by number 20, Rainbow Dash.
Ponyville jumped to a 5-3 lead right before the second period came to a close. Their spirits were much more upbeat and they grinned their way back to the locker room while the Red Wings left the rink to booing.
---
Despite holding a sizeable lead, Rainbow resumed her nervous pacing from the first intermission, this time lamenting the Wonderbolts’ impression of her and worrying about running up the score. Twilight was getting annoyed with Rainbow’s selfishness and was about to confront her but Fluttershy interjected. While Rainbow rambled to herself, Fluttershy trotted up and stood in Rainbow’s path. She grabbed Rainbow’s face and applied her patented stare. Rainbow stopped muttering and fixed her eyes upon Fluttershy’s. Rainbow then backed away quietly and sat down at her stall. Twilight thanked Fluttershy and spoke up.
“Remember team, we had the lead against Cloudsdale before but we lost it. We cannot let up! We will need to be as sharp as ever if we want to close out this game. Pass clean, shoot hard, and be smart. Let’s win this thing!”
“Yeah!” shouted Pinkie, Rarity, Spike, and Fluttershy. Rainbow kept quiet and robotically marched out of the room along with her team.
---
The third period was set to begin as both teams met at the center circle. The Red Wings did not show any signs of distress even though they faced a 5-3 deficit. The puck dropped and the third period began. Cloudsdale won the faceoff and proceeded to dominate the opening minutes of the period, working hard to chip away at the Golden Leafs’ lead. They cycled the puck amongst each other and fought hard for position. Soarin held the puck behind the net and called out a play. The other Red Wings buzzed all over the zone, confusing the Ponyville defense. Soarin fired the puck to the blue line to Ditzy. Gilda muscled her way to the left faceoff circle to receive Ditzy’s pass. At the other faceoff circle, Spitfire broke away from Fluttershy and crashed the net. Gilda zipped the puck to the front of the crease where Pinkie leaped forward to grab the puck. However, Spitfire zoomed in and took the puck on her stick before it reached Pinkie. Spitfire had a wide open net and pounded a shot in, cutting the Golden Leafs’ lead to 1 and reviving the home crowd.
”Red Wings GOOOAAALLL scored by number 13, SPIIIITFIIIIREEE! Assisted by number 44, Gilda, and Ditzy Doo!”
Doubt began to creep into the Golden Leafs’ minds as Cloudsdale came roaring back with a bang-bang play. Twilight repeated her intermission message to her teammates as they geared up for another faceoff. When play resumed, Ponyville deployed a keep-away strategy in hopes of killing time and cooling off Cloudsdale momentum. The Red Wings glided in and reapplied their checking to each Golden Leaf who touched the puck. When Spike ended up with the puck in the neutral zone, Spitfire quickly closed in with great speed. Spike began to freak out and scrambled to make a play. Right when Spitfire went to hit him, Spike blew fire out of self-defense. The flames charred Spitfire’s jersey and she fell to the ice to cool off. The referee blew the whistle to call a penalty. The Cloudsdale crowd was fully back into the action as the referee proclaimed a two minute penalty to Spike for torching.
Twilight debated whether to call a timeout or not, but saw there was too much time left. Spike made his way to the penalty box. Being short, his eyes barely peered above the boards as he could only helplessly watch. Twilight quickly gathered up her friends to calm them down before embarking on a very crucial penalty kill. With the special team units set, the puck dropped. Spitfire won the faceoff back to Pucks who contained the puck at his skates back to the blue line. Soarin immediately skated into Pinkie’s crease and began to screen her. Pinkie had trouble looking around Soarin’s body and occasionally gave him a playful slap on the rear with her stick. Pucks went to shoot but faked, psyching out Rainbow. Rarity then tried her luck to win the puck away but Pucks was able to glide around her. With Soarin screening, Pucks fired on net. Fluttershy dove to block the shot but Soarin reached his stick out in front of Fluttershy for a deflection. The puck barely nicked the blade of Soarin’s stick and changed direction. Pinkie saw the deflection and moved over to block it. The puck came in low and fast and tucked itself right between her blocker and pad for the game-tying goal. The crowd flew up out of their seats and yelled as Cloudsdale forced a 5-5 tie. Soarin flew to Pucks to celebrate as the other Red Wings came together to share a modest celebration as their work was not yet done.
”Red Wings POWER PLAY GOOOAAALLL! Scored by number 96, SOARIIIINNN! Assisted by number 5, Pucks!”
There was a minute and a half left now. Twilight decided to call timeout to regroup the Golden Leafs. Pinkie was shaking while Fluttershy and Rarity looked uneasy. Spike had a glazed look in his eyes as well. Before Twilight could speak, Rainbow took over.
“Give me the puck. I’m putting this team on my back.”
Pinkie snorted a giggle. “We all won’t be able to fit on your back silly!”
Rainbow narrowed her stare and repeated her words slowly. “I’m putting the team on my back.”
Pinkie saw Rainbow’s seriousness and stopped giggling. Twilight knew better than to mess with Rainbow right now so she kept quiet. The referee called over both teams for the faceoff. Rainbow and Spitfire crouched low for the faceoff and battled when the puck dropped. Rainbow wrestled the puck away back to Twilight. Twilight immediately gave the puck back to Rainbow who took off. She tried going straight in on the net, but Pucks blocked her path. Instead of passing off, Rainbow kept control and continued on to the back of the net. Gilda stepped up to knock Rainbow off stride but Rainbow held steady. Ditzy came over and tried to double-team Rainbow along with Gilda but Rainbow somehow squeezed through both of them and made a hard cut toward the net. Scootaloo shook nervously as Rainbow came in fast. Right as Rainbow went to shoot, Spitfire was there to miraculously snatch the puck away. Rainbow fell from her follow through and collided with Scootaloo and the post.
Spitfire had the puck and was blazing up the ice. Twilight and Fluttershy tried to backpeddle but Spitfire blew right past them. Red Wings fans anxiously flew up into the air as Pinkie prepared herself for the breakaway. Shades of the Golden Leafs’ home opener flashed in everyone’s mind as Spitfire closed in on goal. Spitfire was slightly gliding from left to right. She moved the puck up then pulled it back in, pushed it back up, then pulled it back in again as she kept shifting to the right. Pinkie bit the first fake and hesitated in moving over. When the puck came back in toward her stick the second time, Spitfire shot up into the corner. Pinkie was too late in recovering and the puck zinged into the net. Foal Louis Arena exploded with a yell as Spitfire lost balance and crashed into the corner. The goal horn sounded louder than ever as the Red Wings skated down and smothered Spitfire along the boards. The Golden Leafs all fell to the ice in disbelief as Spitfire obliterated their hopes a second time this season. The Red Wings finished up their celebration as Ponyville struggled to make it to the faceoff circle. Only thirty seconds remained and by winning the faceoff, Cloudsdale played keep-away to run out the clock and to snatch the victory away from Ponyville.
The arena was bursting with noise as the Red Wings triumphantly exited the rink to cheers and fireworks exploding. The Golden Leafs were downtrodden and distraught as they stood in place, not moving at all. In the stands, Fluttershy’s parents and Rainbow’s family gave the Golden Leafs a proud round of applause in hopes of cheering them up. It was no use as Twilight and friends sadly floated toward the locker room.
---
The Golden Leaf locker room resembled a mortuary. No one could bring themselves to talk as they silently cleaned up. When they were packed up and ready to leave, Twilight led her friends toward the arena exit. Outside the arena doors, the Dashes and the Fluttershies waited for the Golden Leafs’ emergence. Fluttershy started sniffling up upon seeing her parents and she flew to them. They consoled her as Rainbow scowled and stomped toward her family. Rainbow’s brothers were going to mess with her until their mother gave them a very stern look. Instead, they patted their sister on the back as their father came over to hug Rainbow.
“Well you can’t win ‘em all kiddo. We’re still very proud of you.”
Rainbow softened up and was able to crack the tiniest of smiles as her family embraced her. Fluttershy had stopped sniffling and was feeling much better as her teammates began missing their own families. Rainbow and Fluttershy said their goodbyes and soon the Golden Leafs were flying back down to Ponyville. The silence gradually bloomed into talking as Twilight and company arrived at the treehouse, although their hearts were still heavy. Not wanting to do anything hockey related, everyone agreed to reconnect a couple days later. With another devastating loss to Cloudsdale and with a 3-4 record, the Golden Leafs parted for the evening.
The Golden Leafs crashed down from their emotional high from their previous game against Fillydelphia thanks to a clutch, veteran Cloudsdale team. The next challenge now for Twilight’s team will be to avoid dwelling on this disappointing loss and to keep moving forward. Will the Golden Leafs have the resolve to forget the past? Or will this loss linger in their heads?
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars from Ponyville @ Cloudsdale
* Spitfire (CRW)
** Rainbow Dash (PGL)
*** Soarin (CRW)
EHL Transactions
---
9/-/11 – Ponyville Golden Leafs sign free agent RW Spike to a 1-game contract
9/-/11 – Ponyville Golden Leafs RW Applejack returns from suspension for next game vs. Appleloosa
9/-/11 – Fillydelphia Flyers sign free agent C Colgate to a 1-game contract
9/-/11 – Fillydelphia Flyers C Rose returns from suspension for next game at Cloudsdale
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
---
Manehattan 3, FILLYDELPHIA 2
CANTERLOT 2, Appleloosa 1
EHL Standings (with Projected Playoff Seedings: 1 & 2 byes, 3 vs. 6, 4 vs. 5)
---
(1) Appleloosa 5-2
(2) Manehattan 4-3
(3) Cloudsdale 4-3
(4) Canterlot 4-3
(5) Ponyville 3-4
(6) Fillydelphia 1-6
|
XFizzle
|
1005
| 10 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Equestria Hockey League
|
Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
|
complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-24T22:13:54+00:00
|
2011-09-24T22:13:54+00:00
| 3,604 |
Equestria Hockey League Part 8.5 – All-Star Adventure
by XFizzle
It was day one of EHL All-Star Weekend. Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash were excited to leave Ponyville behind for a small vacation and to mingle with the greatest the EHL had to offer. Since all the festivities were being held in Canterlot this year, Twilight and Rainbow were transported by a royal chariot to the capitol city. When their chariot landed, they were met by EHL Commissioner Gary Bettpony and the rest of the EHL executives. The royal palace was adorned in multiple banners and decorations. Each EHL team had their logo emblazoned on a banner as well as a magical floating portrait of their all-star selections. Twilight and Rainbow squealed excitedly when they saw their massive photo shot floating above the Golden Leafs’ banner. As the all-star Golden Leafs trotted on toward the palace, a trumpet fanfare from the royal guards blared out, announcing their arrival.
As they approached the royal chambers, Twilight and Rainbow noticed that the other all-stars had arrived and were talking amongst themselves. From the Appleloosa Black Apples, Sheriff Silverstar and Braeburn, from the Canterlot Equestriens, Pony Joe and Prince Blueblood, from the Cloudsdale Red Wings, Spitfire, Pucks, and Soarin, from finally the Manehattan Rangers, Lyra and The Great and Powerful Trixie. When Rainbow saw Spitfire and Soarin, she bolted away from Twilight and tried joining in their conversation. Twilight kept to herself in the back of the crowd until Trixie turned around to notice her. Almost immediately, Trixie began laughing out loud, drawing the attention of all the all-stars.
“Hahaha! No way! Please don’t tell me the EHL thought YOU were an all-star?”
“Hello, Trixie,” said Twilight through her clenched teeth.
“Why are you here, Twilight Sparkle? Did they need more janitor mules for the big weekend?”
“No, Trixie. The EHL thought I was good enough to be here. It must be because I’m such a great leader and defensepony.”
“Don’t make me laugh any harder than I already am, Sparkle. Are there any other loser Golden Leafs here too?”
By this time, Rainbow Dash had rejoined Twilight’s side and was getting annoyed with Trixie’s trash talk. “I’m right here! You got something to say, Trixie?”
Trixie rolled her eyes at Rainbow and went on. “Oh great, the talking rainbow is here as well. No matter, I won’t let you losers spoil my fantastic all-star weekend.”
“You better hope I don’t spoil your face!” snapped Rainbow.
Trixie growled and went nose to nose with Rainbow. “How rude!”
Suddenly a blast of trumpets rang out to stop the verbal showdown. A royal guard appeared on the platform with a scroll levitating in front of him. He cleared his voice and announced to all the creatures in attendance.
“Welcome to the EHL All-Star Weekend here in Canterlot! Now presenting the royal highnesses, Princess Luna and Princess Celestia!”
The audience applauded as Princess Celestia and Princess Luna emerged from a curtain and trotted up on the platform toward the all-stars. Luna was smiling brightly as Celestia had a warm, welcoming glow about her. Twilight’s mouth hung open in happiness as she waited to hear her mentor’s words. Trixie looked over at Twilight and mockingly imitated her star-struck stare.
“Good afternoon Equestria Hockey League all-stars! You all should be very proud that you were recognized among the league as elite players! My sister Luna and I welcome you to Canterlot and we hope you enjoy your weekend here. I shall now give the platform to Gary Bettpony to review the weekend’s activities. Mr. Commissioner?”
The all-stars sarcastically clapped off-rhythm as the Commissioner took over the floor.
“Thank you, your majesty. As you all know, tonight is the All-Star Skills Competition. We will be having three events. First, the participants for the fastest skater competition are: Spitfire from Cloudsdale, Soarin from Cloudsdale, and Rainbow Dash from Ponyville.”
Spitfire and Soarin gave each other a hoof bump while Rainbow squealed again in pure glee. The Commissioner continued with his announcement.
“The second event is the hardest shot competition. The participants for that event are: Braeburn from Appleloosa, Lyra from Manehattan, and Prince Blueblood from Canterlot. Finally, the last event is the accuracy competition. The participants for that event are: Silverstar from Appleloosa, Trixie from Manehattan, and Twilight Sparkle from Ponyville.”
Trixie bursted out laughing again as Twilight’s heart sank in fright. Twilight began imagining herself on the ice with everyone staring at her when it was time for the competition. She imagined missing every target in the net and the crowd relentlessly laughing at her. Twilight shook as the announcement was wrapping up.
“Last but not least, I would like to bring the Princesses back to the stage to begin picking their teams for the All-Star Game tomorrow.”
Celestia and Luna returned and stood at opposite ends of the platform with a pile of goodies at their hooves. Each princess also had their teams’ all-star game jerseys ready to be given out. Celestia’s team would be wearing bright orange jerseys with the EHL logo placed inside her sun cutie mark. Luna’s team would be wearing cool purple jerseys with the EHL logo placed inside the crescent opening of her moon cutie mark. The all-stars gave out oohs and ahhs when the princesses showed off their jerseys in front of them. Once the noise settled, the team selection was underway. Twilight crossed her hooves that Princess Celestia would choose her while Rainbow Dash crossed hers so that she could play alongside the Wonderbolts.
“With my pick for the center position, I, Princess Celestia, choose…Spitfire of Cloudsdale!”
“Then for my pick at center, I, Princess Luna, choose…Rainbow Dash of Ponyville!”
Rainbow slumped with disappointment at first but then realized she would be going head to head with Spitfire once again. Thrilled by this new competitive opportunity, Rainbow perked herself back up and proudly strolled to the stage to collect her Team Luna jersey.
“Now for the left wing, I, Princess Celestia, choose…Lyra of Manehattan!”
“I, Princess Luna, choose for left wing…my nephew, Prince Blueblood of Canterlot!”
Lyra and Blueblood were next to trot up to the platform to retrieve their jerseys. Rainbow waved to Twilight from the platform and then waved to Soarin in hopes he would be picked for her team next.
“For the right wing position, I, Princess Celestia, choose…Braeburn of Appleloosa!”
“Then I, Princess Luna, choose…Soarin of Cloudsdale!”
Braeburn let out a “yeehaw!” and Soarin flew up to the platform after their names were called. As soon as Soarin put his Team Luna jersey on, Rainbow rushed over to him and began talking non-stop about how well they were going to play together on the same line.
Now it was time for the defensive selections. Twilight closed her eyes and began muttering to herself “Please let Princess Celestia pick me, please let Princess Celestia pick me!”
“For defense, I, Princess Celestia, choose…Pucks of Cloudsdale! I must also share that this shall be Pucks’ last All-Star Game as he has stated he will be retiring at the end of the season. Let us give him a round of applause for his amazing eleventh all-star selection!”
The all-stars applauded Pucks as he bashfully trotted up to the stage to receive his Team Celestia jersey. His jersey also had the captain’s “C” on it as he was now appointed the team captain for tomorrow’s game.
“For my defense, I, Princess Luna, select…Trixie of Manehattan!”
Trixie stuck her tongue out at Twilight before heading for the stage. Twilight did not care because she was sure she was going to be picked next by Princess Celestia.
“The other defensepony for my team, I, Princess Celestia, choose…Sheriff Silverstar of Appleloosa!”
Like a vicious hammer, Twilight’s hopes were smashed. She fell to the floor in despair as Sheriff Silverstar went up for his jersey. Twilight didn’t want to be there anymore. She already was anxious about being in the accuracy competition and now she would not be playing on her mentor’s team.
“For my other defensepony, and designated team captain for tomorrow, I, Princess Luna, select, Twilight Sparkle from Ponyville!”
Twilight slowly lifted herself up until she heard the words “team captain.” When she looked up and saw the bright, glowing “C” from her Team Luna jersey, Twilight tossed away her sadness and trotted up to the stage. She put her jersey on and was greeted by her soon-to-be teammates, except Trixie. Princess Celestia looked at Twilight and gave her a small wink, showing she had planned this all along. Twilight smiled back and stood proudly with Team Luna as the goaltenders were finally picked.
“Finally, the goaltender for my team, Team Celestia, shall be…Pony Joe of Canterlot!”
“And my goalie, I, Princess Luna, choose…Bloomberg of Appleloosa!”
Pony Joe went to the stage to join his team while Team Luna looked all over for their tree teammate. Suddenly, a crane crashed through the wall, hoisting Bloomberg high above the room.
“Sorry Princess Celestia! We’ll have this fixed up in no time!” yelled the crane operator.
The all-stars stood back in fear for an angry Celestia, but the Princess gave out a soft laugh and magically repaired the wall herself. “There shall be no need for fixing now. Carry on, operator!”
Everypony let out a sigh of relief and were then given the instructions for the night’s All-Star Competition. The princesses departed and each team were shown to their sleeping quarters for the weekend. Twilight and Rainbow’s room was covered in Golden Leafs royal blue and gold. Rainbow rambled on to Twilight about how excited she was for the skating competition tonight and how she was going to play against Spitfire the next day and how Soarin was going to be her right winger. Twilight only nodded, preoccupied with her anxiety for the accuracy competition that evening. Rainbow noticed Twilight’s shortness with her answers and tried calming her.
“What’s got your tail in a knot today? Aren’t you excited to be back in Canterlot?”
Twilight sighed. “Yes, I’m glad to be back home but I’m afraid of embarrassing myself tonight at the Skills Competition. I don’t want to make a fool out of myself in front of everypony! I ‘m afraid I’ll miss every target.”
“No worries, Twilight. You’re going to be the best shooter out there! I’ve seen your shots and they’re pretty darn close to perfect! When it’s your turn, just pretend you’re all by yourself back at Ponyville Pond.”
“But what about Trixie?”
“Forget that saddle sore. She’s going to be too busy worrying about how magical and phony she looks. Bleh. You can take her, no problem!”
“Thanks, Rainbow.”
“Don’t mention it. Now come on, we have to get to the arena!”
Twilight and Rainbow left their room and headed down to the chariot line where they boarded a chariot for the Celestia Centre, home of the Canterlot Equestriens.
---
When they arrived at the Celestia Centre, Twilight and Rainbow were escorted to the Team Luna locker room. Prince Blueblood, Soarin, and Trixie were already at their respective stalls getting ready. Twilight and Rainbow were shown their stalls. In their stalls were their royal blue Golden Leafs home jerseys, gently hanging from hooks and shining brighter than usual. On the left shoulder of their sweaters was a patch depicting the All-Star Game’s logo. The two Golden Leafs put their gear on and waited with the rest of Team Luna for their cue to head to the ice.
The inside of the Celestia Centre was a vibrant collection of colors and logos. All six teams had ample amounts of their colors glowing about the arena. The Celestia Centre was about 85% full of cheering ponies. They cheered loudly for each all-star’s introduction, with especially loud cheers for Prince Blueblood and Pony Joe, the hometown Equestrien all-star selections. After the introductions were complete, the competition participants broke away towards their respective events while the others either sat in the benches or on the ice to spectate.
The first event was the fastest skater competition. Cones were placed around the entire rink, a few feet from the boards to outline the track. Spitfire and Soarin tightened up their skate laces and pressed down their red Cloudsdale jerseys as Rainbow Dash stepped up to the starting line ready to race. Spitfire and Soarin joined Rainbow at the line and all three coiled into starting position.
Tweeeeeeeeet
When the whistle blew, the three racers were off in a giant red and blue blur. The first lap of three was a close one and each pony jockeyed for the lead. They all turned together and crossed the line for the start of the second lap, nearly matching each other in stride. Three turns of neck and neck and neck closeness later, the skaters crossed the line for the final lap. Spitfire and Rainbow tried mustering up extra strength and were soon breaking ahead from Soarin. Spitfire and Rainbow skated side by side as they crossed center ice and were heading into the final two turns. With the finish line quickly approaching, Rainbow skated lower and stretched her neck out. Spitfire saw this and followed suit. Around the final turn they came, each pony taking a slim lead then being overtaken by the other. They rumbled toward the finish line as the spectators stood up for the finish. In a large blur, both ponies crossed the finish line and a bright camera flash lit up the ice. The crowd exploded with a loud cheer as Spitfire and Rainbow were met by their teammates to celebrate a race well done. When the photo developed, the photographer handed it to the emcee for the evening.
“The race result is in! In a photo finish, and I don’t mean the Equestriens’ defensepony, the winner, by a nose, is…RAINBOW DASH OF PONYVILLE!”
The crowd cheered again as Rainbow leapt up in celebration. The emcee skated over to place a medal around Rainbow’s neck. Twilight applauded for her fellow Golden Leaf as Rainbow received hoofshakes from both Spitfire and Soarin for a great race. When Twilight was done cheering, her anxiety ramped back up as it was getting closer to time for the accuracy competition. But first it was time for the hardest shot. Braeburn, Lyra, and Blueblood drifted toward the net to await their event. As Twilight nervously looked upon the hardest shot competition, Trixie sat down next to her.
“Hope you’re ready to lose, Twilight Flopple! I’ve been practicing my shot accuracy all week because I knew I was going to be chosen for this event. I’ll do you a favor though. I’ll shoot so well, everyone will pay attention to me and they won’t even care about your pathetic attempts. I’m going to give them a show!”
Twilight kept looking on, not giving Trixie one ounce of attention. Trixie saw her words weren’t getting through and stood up to leave. Trixie let out a snort before skating away to get ready for the accuracy competition. Braeburn won the hardest shot competition and was given his medal as the crowd once again erupted with cheers. Finally, it came time for the accuracy event. Twilight shook as she stood up and skated over toward Trixie and Silverstar. Rainbow skated by to give Twilight some last minute words of encouragement and also to show off her fastest skater medal. Twilight focused in and just wanted the event to be over.
First to shoot was Trixie. Soarin and Spitfire stood at the sides of the net each with a pile of pucks to pass to the shooters. In the net were four targets placed in the corners. The goal was to hit all four targets without missing in the fastest time. Trixie added some flair to her attempt by making her stick shoot sparklers from the ends. With the shooter and passers ready, the whistle blew.
Tweeeeeeeet
Trixie hit her first shot into the top left target. The next shot drilled the top right target as well. When the next pass came, Trixie one-timed it into the lower left corner to become three for three. With one last target glowing in the bottom right corner, Trixie began to get cocky. When the next pass came, Trixie flicked her stick. The puck flew at the bottom right corner but just narrowly missed the target, hitting the post instead. Trixie’s eyes expanded in disbelief and let out a frustrated growl. When the next pass came, Trixie tightened up her grip and let the shot fly. Once again, she missed the target and became angrier. Finally, one the next pass, Trixie fired the puck into the bottom right target, finishing up at 4 for 6.
Twilight’s uneasiness faded a tiny bit after seeing Trixie struggle to finish, but she still shook in her skates. Twilight took her place at the shooter’s spot and cautiously waited for the whistle.
Tweeeeeeeeeet
Twilight was startled by the whistle and let out a yelp as the first pass came to her. Twilight closed her eyes and shot the puck on net. Although she didn’t see it, the first shot busted the bottom right corner, eliciting a cheer from the crowd. Hearing the crowd, Twilight reopened her eyes and saw she was 1 for 1. She smiled as the next pass came toward her. She wound back and shot again, this time cracking the bottom left target. Her confidence rocketed upward as the third pass came. Twilight focused in on the top left target and shot. The puck blazed in on target and obliterated it. Twilight was now 3 for 3 and was ready to go 4 for 4. The fourth pass came in from Soarin and Twilight wound up. When Twilight unleashed her shot, Trixie’s horn glowed and she put a spell on the puck. Twilight’s shot flew toward the top right target but suddenly stopped and fell to the ice. Twilight was dumbfounded but already had the next pass coming at her. She focused again and quickly flung the puck into the final target, busting it up. Trixie stomped her skate down as Twilight finished 4 for 5.
The crowd cheered Twilight’s effort and she skated away feeling like a weight was lifted from her shoulders. Trixie stomped about in frustration as Silverstar took his turn to shoot. The Appleloosa defensepony went 4 for 4 and won the event. It did not matter to Twilight as she bested Trixie and her anxiety was now gone.
The Skills Competition ended with a declaration from Gary Bettpony.
“Fillies and gentlecolts, as is tradition, I will now announce the host of next season’s All-Star Weekend! Without further ado, next year’s All-Star Weekend shall take place in…”
The royal band started a drumroll as the Commissioner stretched his neck back up to the microphone.
“Ponyville!”
Twilight and Rainbow began celebrating as the crowd applauded. The other all-stars, except Trixie, smiled at the two Golden Leafs and then headed for the locker rooms.
---
The following day was the All-Star Game. Team Celestia and Team Luna arrived at the Celestia Centre to prepare for the star-studded event. Twilight, with the captain’s ‘C’ on her jersey, addressed her team while Pucks did the same in the Team Celestia locker room. Before long, both teams were introduced out in front of the sellout crowd. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna took their place in the royal suite high above the ice and the All-Star Game was underway.
Since the all-star game de-emphasized hitting, the game jumped out to a fast start. Team Celestia took an early 1-0 lead when Spitfire dangled through the Luna defense for a highlight reel goal. Team Luna quickly answered back when Rainbow Dash countered with an equally impressive goal of her own, tying it up at 1-1. Team Luna was back on the offensive and scored on a bang-bang passing play were Blueblood and Rainbow traded passes and then ended with Trixie sniping a shot in from the blue line. The 2-1 Team Luna lead did not last long as Lyra and Spitfire were up on the two-on-one after a big check by Braeburn on Rainbow. Lyra notched the goal and the game was tied again at 2-2. The 1st period ended that way and the crowd showed their appreciation for the all-stars’ entertaining performance.
In the 2nd period, Team Celestia regained the lead when Pucks received a pass along the blue line from Silverstar and fired it on net. Braeburn skated through the crease to tip the shot past the immobile Bloomberg for the go ahead goal. Down 3-2, Team Luna fought back and tied the game up with a deflection by Soarin off a Twilight shot. With the game tied 3-3, Team Celestia bolted down and played tighter defense. They pressured Team Luna into committing turnovers which turned into two more goals by Spitfire and Braeburn for Team Celestia to take a 5-3 lead. Pucks added another goal from the point to extend Team Celestia’s lead to 6-3. At the end of the second period, Team Luna found themselves down by three goals. With bragging rights and pride on the line, Twilight pepped up her team and got them ready for the 3rd period.
The 3rd period got off to a hot start as Team Luna chipped away at their deficit with a Rainbow goal from Twilight. The Golden Leaf connection made the score 6-4 as Team Celestia started playing more conservatively. Team Luna did not let up and was soon back on the scoring end when Blueblood muscled to the net and poked the puck in past his Equestrien teammate Pony Joe to cut the Team Celestia lead to 6-5. With the score closer, the defense on both teams stepped up. A little amount of shots were fired as Team Celestia tried to hold onto their lead. With two minutes left, Soarin was on a breakaway with Spitfire close to catching him. Rainbow flew up quickly and nudged Spitfire away to allow Soarin to complete his break. With a deke, Soarin beat Pony Joe and tied the game up for Team Luna, 6-6. Only minute remained and the crowd grew louder with excitement. Team Celestia won the faceoff and deployed a keep away strategy. The clock wound down and Team Celestia kept looking for their opportune shot. Lyra passed to a raging Spitfire who cut through the center. Twilight dove at the Team Celestia center and poke checked the puck off to the side where Soarin took it up with Rainbow. Rainbow and Soarin passed back and forth with only Pucks between them. Soarin knew his Red Wing teammate’s weakness and rushed to Pucks’ weak side, the left side. Rainbow skillfully threaded the puck between Pucks’ legs to Soarin on the other side to one-time the game-winning goal into the net.
Time expired and Team Luna won 7-6. The Celestia Centre was rocking with cheers and music as Princess Luna came down to the ice to present winner’s medals to her team. Soarin was the All-Star Game MVP and was given a small trophy for the feat.
---
After the celebration was over, both teams cleaned up in the locker room and headed back to the palace for a banquet dinner that evening. After the dinner was over, Twilight and Rainbow packed their things and returned to Ponyville with their all-star jerseys and medals in tow. Although they arrived back late, Twilight and Rainbow entered Twilight’s house and were met by a surprise party. Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Spike decorated the house and waited all day for their all-star teammates to return. The Golden Leafs were reunited again and they partied for the rest of the evening.
|
XFizzle
|
1005
| 11 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Equestria Hockey League
|
Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
|
complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-24T22:18:43+00:00
|
2011-09-24T22:18:43+00:00
| 3,476 |
Equestria Hockey League Part X – One Rotten Apple…
by XFizzle
The Ponyville Golden Leafs’ next contest versus the visiting Appleloosa Black Apples was rapidly approaching. Still reeling from their third period collapse in Cloudsdale, Twilight and her friends did not meet once for practice. Depression and lethargy were lingering like a bad illness as the Golden Leafs finally scavenged up enough energy to meet the night before game day to scout the Black Apples. As Twilight prepared her review notes, Spike and the others were calmly chatting away. No pony dared to say a peep about hockey and they all cautiously covered a variety of other topics. Twilight closed her scouting journal and was ready to inform her team. Everypony kept to their conversations, ignoring Twilight standing before them. Twilight had to clear her throat loudly to receive the Golden Leafs’ attention.
“Ahem! Thanks for showing up tonight. I know it’s been a rough week, but if we gather up enough information on Appleloosa and review what went well our first game against them, then we can forget all about Cloudsdale. We’ll be back to our winning ways in no time!”
“That’s great Twilight dear. But if you don’t mind me asking, what is there to review?” asked Rarity.
Rainbow Dash was casually lounging on the sofa when she chimed in. “Yeah. I mean, we totally destroyed them! They’ve only lost twice and we’re one of those losses. We’ve got this in the bag.”
“Yep, cain’t argue with them facts, Twi,” contributed Applejack.
Twilight was a little taken aback by her friends’ overconfident words. “But that was early in the season. Who knows what Appleloosa has changed since then! They could have a new playing style, new plays, maybe a new player. We need to study them if we want to have an edge!”
Rainbow, Rarity, and Applejack blankly looked back at Twilght, showing their boredom. Fluttershy was next to voice her opinion. “I hope Chief Thunderhooves isn’t still playing for them. I bet he remembers that hit I gave him. Oh my, he’ll probably want revenge! I’m doomed! *squeak*”
“You’ll be fine, Fluttershy. It was so long ago he’s probably forgotten about it,” said Twilight reassuringly.
“But what if you’re wrong, Twilight. What if I really am done for?”
Twilight was about to provide a rebuttal but Pinkie Pie jumped in. “Don’t worry Fluttershy! If that big, bad bully buffalo comes near you, you bet we’ll be right there to knock his socks off!”
Rainbow began laughing. “Haha Pinkie, buffaloes don’t wear socks!...Or do they?”
“I believe they have to during a game, it is EHL uniform code,” said Rarity.
“How ‘bout shoes? Do they wear shoes?” asked Applejack eagerly.
Rarity paused for a moment. “I think that would be most uncomfortable considering the shoe would not provide proper support for hooves.”
Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow, and Pinkie Pie stirred up a debate while Fluttershy listened intently. Twilight began to turn red with frustration as the tangent about buffalo footwear had taken over her scouting session. She yelled to bring everyone back together.
“ENOUGH! We need to focus on how to beat Appleloosa if we want to win!”
Rainbow smugly let out a snort. “Get the puck. Shoot it around a dumb tree. Score. Win. Done. Can we go now?”
“Hey! Bloomberg ain’t dumb! He was a part of my family!” yelled Applejack.
“Oh Applejack, that is simply ridiculous. How could a tree be part of a pony’s family? It’s not even a living creature!” chimed Rarity.
Applejack stood up to defend her tree friend. “Well he just was! I cain’t explain it. We took care of him and he took care of us by givin’ us healthy apples.”
“I’d…like to be a tree,” said Fluttershy softly.
Pinkie sat up quickly as if an idea popped in her head. “If Fluttershy is a tree, can I be a gazebo? I would be so large and beautiful that everypony would be able to host giant parties! Oooh! They can use Fluttershy to build me!”
Fluttershy squealed in fright as Rainbow began cracking up with laughter at Pinkie’s remark. Everypony carried on the conversation and the silly talk continued. Twilight gave up on getting her friends to focus and just sat in front of them with a very disgruntled look on her face. The conversation carried on into the late hours of the evening before the Golden Leafs grew tired and departed for bed. Although the depression of the Cloudsdale loss appeared to have dissipated, nothing of real merit was discussed in regards to Appleloosa. Twilight began to worry that her team’s lack of focus and urgency will become a major hindrance when it’s time to drop the puck. She went to bed mentally exhausted and irritable, hoping her mood would improve in the morning.
---
Twilight woke up the next morning still annoyed and with anxiety growing for the night’s game. In hopes of easing her concern, she tried convincing herself that maybe the team will be focused and ready to listen in the locker room. Twilight spent the afternoon completing and then took off for Ponyville Pond with Spike. She was the first of her friends to arrive. The hollowness of the locker room made her feel uneasy and enflamed her anxiety. With full uniform on, Twilight paced while waiting for the rest of the Golden Leafs to arrive. Finally with only a small amount of time left before introductions, the remainder of the Golden Leafs nonchalantly strolled into the locker room. They all stopped to watch Twilight pace the floor but Twilight stopped when she noticed them.
“Would any of you care to explain why you’re so late? We’re going onto the ice in five minutes! I won’t have time to give the usual pre-game speech!”
Rainbow brushed Twilight off as she and the others trotted over to their stalls to get dressed. “Relax Miss Bossyhooves, we’re here now aren’t we? We don’t need your boring speech tonight anyways. We know what we’re doing.”
Twilight’s anxiety converted into frustration. “No we don’t! We WOULD be ready if we scouted Appleloosa last night but NOOOOOO. You all had to go on and on about SILLY things!”
Twilight’s complaint fell on deaf ears as her friends were too busy putting their uniforms on. Twilight stomped her skates down on the floor when she realized no one heard her. As Twilight attempted to vent her ever expanding anger, the one-minute warning horn blared throughout the arena. Twilight instead let out a boisterous grunt and trotted out of the locker room defeated, her carefree teammates trailing behind.
---
It was another hockey night in Ponyville. Throngs of Golden Leafs fans occupied Ponyville Pond and were buzzing with anticipation. Even though the Golden Leafs’ season was inconsistent thus far, the fan support continued to steadily grow as more ponies took notice to Twilight and friends’ accomplishments. After the usual pregame pageantry and introductions, both teams were on the ice and warming up. Appleloosa was getting in some final shooting practice as Bloomberg was being magically lowered into place by the ice crew with help from some unicorn ponies. The Golden Leafs were not moving as fast as the Black Apples, listlessly floating around their end of the ice. Twilight was the only player not going through the motions and she skated circles around all her friends.
The referee grabbed the game puck and headed for center ice. Both teams came together and set themselves for the faceoff. Applejack and Braeburn stood beside each other and gave each other playful jabs with their sticks and knees. The ref checked with Pinkie Pie for her ready signal. Pinkie waved to the referee enthusiastically and immediately after, the clack of the puck hitting the ice echoed out into the arena.
---
Little Strongheart won the opening faceoff and helped Appleloosa begin a very long, sustained offensive series in the Ponyville zone. The Black Apples were able to get off five shots before the Golden Leafs had their first touch of the puck. After another Appleloosa shot on net, Pinkie pushed the puck to Twilight who passed it up to Applejack. Applejack didn’t move any faster and soon she was met at the half boards by Apple Fritter. Rainbow was slow in getting to the tangled Apple kin and watched as Fritter poked the puck back toward the Appleloosa end where Sheriff took control. Sheriff brought the puck into the Ponyville zone unopposed because the Golden Leafs sagged back on defense. The Black Apples zigged and zagged all over the zone, shifting positions and getting open. Sheriff held the puck at the blue line while Braeburn cycled out from behind the net. Sheriff fired the puck through the Golden Leafs’ defense and placed it perfectly onto Braeburn’s stick on the side of the goal. Braeburn immediately shot on net while Pinkie shifted over and hugged her left post. It was no use as Braeburn deftly aimed the puck at the other post, clanging it in the goal at just the right angle. The goal light spun and the Ponyville crowd began booing.
”Appleloosa goal scored by number 2, Braeburn! Assisted by number 11, Sheriff Silverstar, and number 16, Apple Fritter!
Twilight angrily looked away from the Black Apples’ celebration and skated up to her goaltender.
“What was that Pinkie? Did you even try to stop it?”
“Sure as sugar Twilight! It was a neat goal, wasn’t it? It helped that the puck totally went through the defense.”
Twilight twitched at Pinkie’s last sentence. “Excuse me? What did you just say?”
Pinkie began to back down into her net. “It was a nice goal because the puck went through the defense?”
“Are you saying it’s my fault they scored? How could it be my fault? I’m not the goalie here! You are!”
Before Pinkie could defend herself, the referee broke up the conversation so play could resume at center ice.
Twilight growled as she waited for the faceoff. Once again, Appleloosa won the draw and controlled the puck on the offense. Chief Thunderhooves dumped the puck into the corner and Fritter raced in to fetch it. Rainbow met Fritter at the corner but did not exert enough effort to try and win the puck. Fritter easily broke out of the corner and passed it to Sheriff at the point. Sheriff shoveled it over to Chief who then pushed it onto Braeburn in the other corner. Strongheart skated up the center of the zone and was open for a pass. Braeburn slapped it toward her but Rainbow sniffed the play out and intercepted the pass. Rainbow took her sweet old time skating it up the ice. Had she skated at full energy, she would’ve easily had a breakaway but Braeburn caught her and stole the puck back. While Braeburn brought the puck in the zone, Strongheart repeated her stride to the net. This time Braeburn fed it to Strongheart cleanly and she rifled the puck on net. The puck zinged past Pinkie’s blocker hoof and into the back of the netting. Appleloosa celebrated their second goal of the evening much to the chagrin of the Ponyville fans and Twilight.
”Appleloosa goal scored by number 7, Little Strongheart! Assisted by number 2, Braeburn!”
Twilight stormed over to Rainbow. Rainbow attempted to skate away but Twilight cut her off.
“What kind of effort was that? You had a clear breakaway but you moved too slow and lost a scoring opportunity!”
Rainbow rolled her eyes at Twilight. “Whatever. We still have two periods and their goalie is an inanimate object. We still have this.”
“We don’t have anything! We don’t have a shot! We don’t have a faceoff win! We don’t have a chance!” shouted Twilight furiously.
By this time, Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy were in on the conversation and awkwardly stood before Twilight’s ridicule of Rainbow. Ignoring Twilight’s rambling, Rainbow drifted toward the center faceoff circle with Twilight following behind closely, continuously calling out her lack of effort.
Play resumed and the rest of the period carried out as Appleloosa took a 2-0 lead into the first intermission, not allowing a single shot on their net that period. Golden Leafs fans were silent and apathetically watched as an irritated Twilight led the way back to the locker room.
---
The Golden Leafs each sat their respective stall except Twilight who was thrashing about until it came time to talk.
“That was the worst period I’ve ever seen! The practice dummies would’ve done a better job than what I saw out there! What do you all have to say for yourselves?”
No one stepped up to take the floor. Applejack was feeling more uneasy with each passing second but couldn’t bring together words to say. Rainbow stared down at the carpet in a daydreaming state. Rarity was levitating a mirror in front of her and was fussing with her mane. Pinkie was busy gulping down an intermission cupcake while Fluttershy hid in the hallway after being yelled at by Twilight. Twilight impatiently tapped her hoof on the floor, waiting for one of her friends to claim responsibility. The locker room remained eerily silent. Finally the sound of the one-minute warning horn broke the awkward atmosphere and Twilight had no use but to let the team go back out on the ice. Not a single word was said nor was any adjustment made.
---
The second period was underway as it began just like the first. Appleloosa won the faceoff and kept it in the Golden Leafs’ zone. Little Strongheart had the puck on the right wing boards where Applejack came in to apply pressure. Strongheart flung the puck around the back of the net to Apple Fritter who now had it on the left wing. Fritter passed to Chief on the blue line and he charged towards the net. Fluttershy, fearing for Chief’s revenge and her life, jumped out of the way, leaving Pinkie high and dry. Chief Thunderhooves barreled into the crease and pounded the puck almost through Pinkie’s body and into the net for another Black Apples goal. Chief rammed into the boards in celebration as the Black Apples came together.
”Appleloosa goal scored by number 40, Chief Thunderhooves! Assisted by number 16, Apple Fritter, and number 7, Little Strongheart!”
Fluttershy was still trembling on the ice with her skates shielding her eyes. Twilight skated to Fluttershy and looked down upon her with disgust. Fluttershy looked up and was relieved when she saw it was just Twilight. Fluttershy got up and was about to skate away until Twilight started to spout off.
“Fluttershy! Why did you move out of the way? You gave them an open shot!”
Fluttershy began trembling again. “Um, I didn’t want to get hurt by Chief Thunderhooves. He was skating at me so fast.”
“That’s no excuse! You have to braver! Now we’re down by three goals! Ugh!”
“I’m…sorry,” squeaked Fluttershy as she fought back tears.
Applejack saw Twilight’s talk with Fluttershy and came over to direct Twilight away from Fluttershy. Twilight brushed Applejack’s skates off of her and went to her spot for the faceoff.
Rainbow finally won a faceoff and Ponyville brought the puck into the Appleloosa zone for just the second time in the entire game. Twilight dumped the puck in and had Applejack chase after it. Applejack was hit hard into the boards by Sheriff and they tussled for the puck. Rainbow swept by and poked the puck out of the scrum and now had it. Rainbow curved to face the net and shoot, but Chief stormed over and laid her out with a violent hit. Rainbow crashed into the boards as the home crowd gasped. Sheriff grabbed the loose puck and found a streaking Apple Fritter heading up ice. With a brilliant pass over center ice, Apple Fritter was in all alone on Pinkie. The crowd stood up to watch the breakaway attempt. Pinkie skated out a bit as Fritter closed in. Apple Fritter arrogantly pointed her right forehoof to the top right corner then snapped the puck on net. Sure enough, the puck clanged in over Pinkie’s shoulder in the top right corner for the fourth Appleloosa goal of the evening. Immense booing showered down from the stands as the Black Apples were in celebration once again.
”Appleloosa goal scored by number 16, Apple Fritter! Assisted by number 11, Sheriff Silverstar!
Twilight furiously snapped her stick with her magic and lit it on fire, prompting Spike to rush down from the announcer’s booth to hand her a new one. Twilight was tired of trying to get through to her friends’ heads and vowed to take over the game herself.
“If they don’t want to win, fine. I’ll do everything myself. I don’t need them. I’ll bring us back and then I’ll be the big hero. Not Rainbow or Applejack or anypony!”
The faceoff at center ice was won by Appleloosa and somehow Strongheart split the defense and was quickly off on a breakaway from the faceoff. Twilight, desperate to stop Appleloosa’s rout, stuck her stick out and caught Strongheart’s skate. Strongheart tripped and crashed into Pinkie as they both got caught in the net. The referee blew his whistle and hurriedly skated to the net and pointed his hoof at the goal.
“Penalty shot awarded to Appleloosa!”
Twilight immediately went up to the referee to protest. “WHAT? A penalty shot? She wasn’t even going to shoot!”
“Keep moving, Sparkle. I’m not going to hear it,” replied the ref.
Pinkie helped Strongheart up and adjusted her padding as the referee set the puck up for the penalty shot. Strongheart skated to the blue line as both teams watched from the opposite sides. With a blow of the whistle, Little Strongheart was off on her penalty shot. She tapped the puck side to side as she came up to the crease. Not knowing which way to move, Pinkie stayed still and squared with the shooter. With a quick flick, Strongheart aimed straight at the five-hole. Pinkie was late in squeezing her pads together and the puck bumped the back of the net. Pinkie toppled over as Appleloosa now scored their fifth goal of the game. Pinkie was beginning to feel unhappy and her bright pink coat was starting to darken.
”Appleloosa goal scored on the penalty shot by number 7, Little Strongheart!”
The Golden Leafs turned to Twilight to give her a taste of her own medicine.
“Oh nice tripping there, Twilight. The penalty shot wouldn’t have happened if you didn’t get burned off the faceoff!” shouted Rainbow.
“Yeah Twi, what a mighty foolish thing ta’ do,” said Applejack.
Rarity smiled at Rainbow and Applejack and pitched in as well. “Oh now we’re never going to get back into this game. Good going, Twilight!”
Twilight was bewildered that her friends had the nerve to blame her for the latest goal when they have been playing poorly the whole game. Twilight tried to defend herself but her rage turned her words into indistinguishable gibberish. Fluttershy began to giggle at Twilight’s verbal struggle but stopped immediately when Twilight turned around to face her. Twilight gave up trying to speak and skated to the faceoff circle.
The rest of the second period featured more possession by Appleloosa and they let the clock run out on the second period. The Golden Leafs’ faithful loudly voiced their displeasure and began filing for the exits. Twilight bolted for the locker room while her teammates lazily lagged behind.
---
Twilight waited for her friends to walk through the door so she could lay into them again for a horrendous second period. She waited and waited but there was no sign of her team. She whipped her head around the corner to look into the hallway. Off in the distance, she saw the tip of Fluttershy’s tail sticking out from a parallel hallway. The other Golden Leafs met to talk about Twilight’s sour mood and came up with a plan to get her to lighten up. Twilight angrily stomped down the hallway, making her near presence known. The Golden Leafs ceased their discussion and quickly turned to start walking toward the locker room. When they ran into Twilight, they all acted oblivious and were talking about how they were just about to go inside their locker room. Twilight saw through their poorly veiled plan and trotted to the ice alone, clearly disappointed, angry, and hurt by her friends’ behavior.
---
Ponyville Pond was almost empty because a good majority of the fans left after the second period. Appleloosa’s dominance also carried over into the third period. Braeburn made an amazing defensive play to steal the puck from Rainbow and went coast to coast for an unassisted goal, making it 6-0 Appleloosa. Pinkie Pie was showing frustration and was deviating away from her happy-go-lucky self. The next series when Appleloosa was on offense, Apple Fritter had the puck along the left wing boards and was cutting toward the net. Apple Fritter passed the puck to the point but kept skating toward Pinkie and the crease to screen. Pinkie Pie sprung out from the net and decked Apple Fritter to the ice. The referee rushed over to call the interference penalty on the rapidly deflating Pinkie Pie. Since goalies cannot serve penalties, the referee asked the Golden Leafs who should serve the penalty for Pinkie. Almost as if it was rehearsed, everyone shouted “Twilight!” except for Twilight of course. Twilight’s jaw dropped as the referee brushed her toward the penalty box to sit for the next two minutes.
The Golden Leafs slacked off on the penalty kill and allowed another Appleloosa goal while Twilight stewed in the penalty box. The game was clearly in hand and the remaining handful of Golden Leafs fans booed before leaving. The final horn sounded like sweet release to the Golden Leafs who just wanted to go home. The victorious Appleloosa Black Apples met at Bloomberg and tapped their sticks against the tree. Ponyville was about to head toward the locker room but Twilight blocked the door, keeping her team in the rink as Appleloosa exited. With Ponyville Pond emptied, she yelled up to Spike in the announcing booth.
“Spike! Keep the lights on! We’re going to be here for a while!”
The other Golden Leafs all had a puzzled look on their face for what Twilight has planned for them.
Twilight took off her helmet and nudged her stick aside. “Well, if you didn’t want to work during the game, we’re going to work after the game. I want everypony to line up along the red line. We’re going to skate until our legs break off. When I blow the whistle, skate to the blue line and back, then to the center line and back, then to the other blue line and back. We will continue to skate until you take this game seriously and want to work hard.”
Twilight’s friends shot her an angry look and floated over to the red line to line up. Twilight skated to center ice and faced them with whistle at the ready.
Tweeeeeeeeet
Twilight blew her whistle but nothing happened. Her friends stood still at the line and plopped down on the ice in defiance. Twilight’s anger flared up and she bolted toward her friends.
“Oh, I see how it’s going to be. Do you all want to be kicked off this team? I can find some ponies who would jump at the chance to play.”
Rainbow and Applejack stood up together and Rainbow shouted back at Twilight.
“No, I don’t want to be kicked off the team because I QUIT! This isn’t a team! This is Twilight being a complete mule because she has a hard horn for the Princess and will do anything to not disappoint her. You’ve been a bossy pain all night. You single-hoofedly made this stink and not fun anymore. Anypony who wants to join me come on. We’ll leave Miss Egghead all alone.”
Rainbow flew through the door leading to the locker room. Applejack began skating toward the exit as well. “I quit too! Rainbow’s right. This ain’t fun anymore. It’s bad enough we keep losin’ but it doesn’t help gettin’ yelled at neither.”
Twilight was miffed but didn’t show it. She brushed them off and remained cold. “Fine. We don’t need sore flanks like you! We’ll be just fine, right girls?”
Rarity and Pinkie Pie scowled at Twilight while Fluttershy was quivering in fright. Rarity was next to stand up and skate toward the exit, whipping her mane into Twilight’s face as she drifted past. Pinkie Pie, who was now completely dark and her mane straightened out, also stood up and quietly left the ice.
“Oh yeah, go on and leave! You two hardly ever contribute to the team anyways! You never want to play physical Rarity and you’re a sieve Pinkie!”
Twilight watched as Rarity and Pinkie left. She turned toward Fluttershy, causing Fluttershy to fly up and let out a frightened yelp. Before Twilight could speak again, Fluttershy closed her eyes and flew away from the rink. Twilight was left all alone with her team deserting her. Spike began to turn the lights off in Ponyville Pond. Only a single spotlight shone on Twilight who fell to the ice in lonely despair.
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars from Appleloosa @ Ponyville
* Braeburn (APP)
** Apple Fritter (APP)
*** Bloomberg (APP)
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
---
CANTERLOT 5, Manehattan 2
CLOUDSDALE 4, Fillydelphia 0
EHL Standings (with Projected Playoff Seedings: 1 & 2 byes, 3 vs. 6, 4 vs. 5)
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(1) Appleloosa 6-2
(2) Cloudsdale 5-3
(3) Canterlot 5-3
(4) Manehattan 4-4
(5) Ponyville 3-5
(6) Fillydelphia 1-7
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XFizzle
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1005
| 12 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-24T22:23:43+00:00
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2011-09-24T22:23:43+00:00
| 3,209 |
Equestria Hockey League Part XI – For Whom the Belle Tolls
by XFizzle
Another “X” marked on the calendar to begin another day of loneliness for Twilight Sparkle. She sighed loudly as she glanced at the current day’s square and saw the words “weekly practice” in bold red letters. Twilight lazily began to ready herself for the long day, dragging herself to the mirror to brush her mane. Spike rustled out of his sleep and yawned his way up and out of his bed. Even while rubbing his eyes, Spike could see Twilight’s distress. He let out one last yawn and stretched out his tiny limbs.
“Well somepony looks down in the dumps. What’s wrong Twilight?”
Twilight looked away from the mirror and down at her hooves. “I don’t know Spike. Ever since the Appleloosa game, I’ve been feeling incredibly lonely and a bit guilty.”
Spike walked up next to Twilight and began fussing with his scales in the mirror beside her.
“Lonely I can understand, but guilty? The girls weren’t listening to you and they quit on the team. Why are you the one feeling guilty?
Twilight walked over to her dresser where she grabbed her winter saddle and scarf. “Because Spike, even though they were less than cooperative, I wasn’t being a good leader. I’ll admit, I lost my cool and I yelled at them while I wasn’t performing my best and I blamed them for the bad game. We were all to blame, as a team. A good leader knows when it’s the right time to push their teammates’ buttons and which buttons to push. We moped too much about the Cloudsdale loss, including myself. A good leader would have encouraged their team to shake the loss off and turn their focus to the next game right away, not waiting until the night before. ”
“I guess. So what are you going to do now?”
“I’m going to the girls’ homes and apologizing for my actions. There’s no time to be standoffish and spiteful. We have two games left against teams we lost to already. The playoffs are coming soon and we need to build momentum going into them. Oh I hope the girls will hear me out!”
“I hope so, for the Golden Leafs’ sake, more importantly, Ponyville’s sake. The fans love you guys.”
“Well I’m going to head out now. Our usual practice time is getting closer.”
“Good luck, Twilight.”
Twilight trotted down the stairs to the main floor. Before she could open the door, the mail slot opened and a newspaper was pushed into the house. Twilight levitated the newspaper and quickly flipped through it. When she reached the sports section, a headline caught her eye.
“RANGERS’ CAPTAIN FLINGS SCATHING REMARKS AT PONYVILLE”
Twilight dissected the sports page to find the whole article. When she found it, she began to read intently.
“When discussing the Manehattan Rangers’ next opponent, the Ponyville Golden Leafs, Rangers’ captain, The Great and Powerful Trixie, didn’t pull any punches. ‘The Ponyville Golden Leafs have been an utter disgrace not only to the Equestria Hockey League, but to the sport of hockey. It amazes me how they truly believe they are a legitimate team. I mean, did you see their latest games? They completely embarrassed the league with their barbaric attack on Fillydelphia, they completely choked away a win in Cloudsdale, then they followed up with a vomit-inducing effort against Appleloosa. You know what I think? I think they are the beneficiaries of favoritism. Yes, you can quote The Great and Powerful Trixie on that. Princess Celestia personally requested Ponyville be granted a team. Why? Because she is the mastermind behind the EHL while Commissioner Bettpony is merely a figurehead. The EHL was just fine before the Golden Leafs came along. They are giving the other teams a bad rap, including The Great and Powerful Trixie’s perfectly flawless team, the Manehattan Rangers. I, The Great and Powerful Trixie, along with my teammates, will show Equestria once and for all that the Golden Leafs do not belong in this league and should be disbanded immediately. When asked why Manehattan is 4-4 even though The Great and Powerful Trixie called her team perfectly flawless, Trixie quickly chased our interviewer from the room. It should make for an interesting evening in Ponyville when these two teams meet on the ice. How will the Golden Leafs respond? We shall find out in two nights.”
Twilight’s blood gradually came to a boil as she read Trixie’s remarks. She was now more determined than ever to gather up the girls and put the other night’s meltdown behind her. Twilight tucked the article into her scarf and galloped off toward Sugarcube Corner.
---
With snow gently falling from a dull, grey sky, Twilight reached Sugarcube Corner in a hurry. Twilight approached the counter where Mrs. Cake was placing the finishing touches on a cake.
“Hello Mrs. Cake, is Pinkie home?”
“Why hello Twilight Sparkle! I believe she is.” Mrs. Cake went over to the stairs and yelled up into the top floor. “Pinkie dear! You have a visitor!”
Excited scuffling shook the ceiling and Pinkie emerged from the stairs.
“Oh boy! A visitor! Who is it?” As Pinkie walked down, she noticed her visitor was Twilight. Pinkie’s face soured from an anticipatory smile to a dour frown. “Oh, it’s Twilight. Back to call me mean names again? I don’t even know what a sieve is, but I bet it’s not tasty!”
Twilight tried to crack an inviting smile but her guilt sank back in. “Pinkie, I came here to apologize for how I acted and what I said the other night. I wasn’t being a good leader or a good friend. You’re not a sieve. You are a fine goalie and your positive attitude always brightens up the locker room. I hope you can forgive me and we can get back to practicing like a fun team again.”
Pinkie took in Twilight’s apology but didn’t respond. She stared at Twilight silently, causing Twilight to feel more anxious and uneasy. After more awkward seconds passed, Twilight pulled out the article from her scarf and duplicated it with magic. She drifted the copy over to Pinkie and sadly turned to leave. Pinkie received the article and began to read it. After quickly skimming the paper, Pinkie yelled out, “Wait, Twilight!” but Twilight had already moved onto the next house.
---
Next stop was the Carousel Boutique. Twilight knocked on the door and began rehearsing her apology to Rarity in her head. Rarity peered out the window to see who it was. When she saw it was Twilight, Rarity quickly closed the curtains out of sight. Twilight could hear a conversation inside the home but was puzzled and becoming more downtrodden when the door wouldn’t open. Letting out a sigh, Twilight turned to leave when the door finally opened. Hearing the creak of the door propelled Twilight back around with relief. The relief was quickly washed away with disappointment as it was Sweetie Belle who answered. Sweetie Belle looked up at Twilight with her large, green eyes and smiled.
“Hiya, Twilight! How are you doing?”
“Oh hello, Sweetie Belle. Is Rarity home? I have something to need to tell her.”
Whispering emerged off from Sweetie Belle’s side, “Don’t tell her I’m here! Tell her I’m delivering an order of dresses!”
“Umm…Rarity isn’t home right now. Can I leave a message?”
Twilight heard the whispering and was slightly irked, but she remembered the article and refocused on setting things straight. Talking louder than her usual tone, Twilight began her apology knowing Rarity was listening. “Tell Rarity that I came by to apologize for my actions and my words the other night. I wasn’t a good leader or a good friend. Rarity has a great shot and she did spend a lot of time putting together out uniforms. I hope she will still show up for practice today. Also could you give her this?”
Twilight handed another copy of the article to Sweetie Belle. Forgetting she was covering for her sister, Sweetie Belle started to give the article to Rarity but Rarity put her hooves up to block her from doing so. Sweetie Belle looked back to Twilight and grinned. “Sure thing, Twilight. I’ll give this to Rarity. See you in a few days for the game!”
“Thanks, Sweetie Belle,” said the apologetic Golden Leafs captain as she turned to move on. Sweetie Belle closed the door and gave Rarity the article. Rarity read over it and turned red with anger. Her face returned to being flush when she recalled Twilight’s apology. Hoping to catch her friend, Rarity quickly ripped the door open and saw Twilight in the distance. She tried to yell out, “Twilight darling!” but like Pinkie, Rarity was too late.
---
With time running out until practice was supposed to begin, Twilight galloped to Sweet Apple Acres. As she drew near, Twilight noticed Big Macintosh plowing away snow from the barn. Looking around, there was no sign of Applejack anywhere. Twilight ran up to Big Macintosh with urgency.
“Hello Big Macintosh, is Applejack around?”
“No, ma’am. She’s been trottin’ around Ponyville helpin’ plow some snow. She’s been feelin’ mighty rotten the past couple’a days, talkin’ down to herself and feelin’ ashamed about somethin’.”
Twilight found a bit of solace in Big Mac’s words and was encouraged that at least one of her friends was feeling as bad as she had been. “Well, if she comes back soon, could you tell her that I stopped by to apologize for what I did during and after the game the other night? Also could you give her this article? I’d appreciate it.”
“Eeyup, no problem, Miss Sparkle.”
“Thank you. Hey, Applejack told us before the season started that you used to play hockey. Is that true?”
“Eeyup, sure did. I reckon I was a mighty solid forward when I was a young colt. I ain’t played in ages but I do miss it.”
Twilight began formulating an idea in her head. “I think I might have a way to get you back into the sport. Expect another visit from me in the near future.”
“Sure thing. Y’all take care now. Get the Golden Leafs back together.”
Twilight smiled. “I’ll try. Thank you.”
Big Macintosh resumed his snow plowing as Twilight sprinted toward her final reconciliation destination, Fluttershy’s cottage.
---
At the cottage, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were hanging out and grooming each others’ wings. When Twilight was close enough, she looked through the window and was very thrilled to see her remaining apologies could be completed in one swoop. Twilight quickly knocked on the door to which Fluttershy answered. Twilight greeted Fluttershy with a smile while Fluttershy leaned away in fright.
“Aw Fluttershy, please hear me out. I came to apologize for the other night. No need to be afraid of me. I promise I won’t yell at you like I did. I’m sorry.”
Fluttershy relaxed and smiled. “Oh Twilight, I’m sorry too for leaving. I was just so scared. I didn’t mean to leave you all alone. Could you forgive me?”
A rewarding warmness blanketed Twilight as she smiled back. “Yes, Fluttershy. I forgive you. Ready to get back to practice?”
Before Fluttershy could respond, Rainbow flew to the doorway. When she saw Twilight, Rainbow immediately turned away from Twilight and crossed her forelegs. “What do YOU want?”
“Rainbow, I’m here to apologize for the Appleloosa game. I was wrong to single you out in front of the team during the first period and then to yell at everyone throughout the game. I wasn’t being a good leader or a good friend.”
“You’re darn right you weren’t! I’ve been a workhorse for this team and yet I get thrown under the cart when it wasn’t my fault.”
Twilight began to feel guilty again and tried to give a rebuttal when Rainbow slammed the door on her. Instead of being upset, Twilight sighed to herself. “I probably deserved that. I guess I’ll be practicing by myself today.”
Twilight slipped the last copy of the article under Fluttershy’s door and sadly started off on her trek toward Ponyville Pond. Back inside the cottage, Fluttershy was not pleased with Rainbow’s behavior and applied her patented stare. Rainbow freaked out and rushed to get back to Twilight to properly apologize but Twilight was already gone in the distance. Rainbow noticed the article lying on the floor and picked it up to read. Rainbow became infuriated as she read the article and shredded it to pieces when she finished, startling Fluttershy.
---
Ponyville Pond was hollow and somber as a lonely Twilight put on her practice uniform and took to the ice. The echo of her skates cutting the ice and the puck smacking the boards made Twilight feel like she was playing inside a black hole devoid of all life. As Twilight skated around and shot on the empty net, she noticed that there was additional noise coming out from somewhere as it didn’t match up with the things she was doing. As the noises grew louder, Twilight’s hopes shot upwards that it was her friends returning to her and accepting her apology. She waited anxiously for the rabble of voices to come to the rink. Twilight’s enlarged, anxious eyes shifted into concerned, apprehensive ones as it was not her friends at the rink, but the Manehattan Rangers. Trixie was in the front of the pack with Lyra, Octavia, Vinyl Scratch, and Bon Bon closely following behind her. The Rangers stepped out onto the ice and began encircling Twilight. They all came to a stop, spraying Twilight with ice chips from every angle. They all let out a laugh as Trixie skated up to Twilight.
“Hello loser! Remember us? Where’s your lame team? Did they all abandon you and leave you all alone? I don’t blame them. If I played for you, I’d abandon ship too since you spread lameness to everything you do!”
Twilight gnashed her teeth and was ready to stand up to Trixie.
“I’m not afraid of you, Trixie. I suggest you get out of here before I humiliate you with my magic in front of your team.”
Trixie laughed off Twilight’s threat. “Oh please, Twilight. Don’t try to be all tough and heroic. You’re outnumbered five to one. We’re taking over this ice for our practice and there’s nothing you can do to stop us!”
As Trixie said this, the other four Rangers closed in on Twilight, causing Twilight to back herself into the corner boards with nowhere to run. Suddenly, Lyra and Octavia sandwiched Twilight and began pushing her around from side to side. They thrust her at Vinyl Scratch who proceeded to whip her tail in Twilight’s face. During the bullying, Trixie was near the benches, planting a tiny spying device on the boards that viewed the entire rink.
Twilight was dazed by Scratch’s tail whipping and it was made worse by a helmet-to-helmet headbutt by Bon Bon. When she reclaimed her focus, Twilight found herself pinned to the glass by the Rangers. Back from her mischievous scheme, Trixie closed in with her skate blade held up. Lyra tore Twilight’s helmet from her head and held out a large chunk of Twilight’s mane for Trixie to cut off. Octavia was holding Twilight’s tail out as well as Trixie began laughing maniacally. Right as Trixie was about to touch Twilight’s hair, a lasso flew right above her head and came down around her to constrict her. Trixie was dragged to the opposite end of the ice as the other Rangers released Twilight to save their captain. The wide zamboni doors opened and Trixie yelled out, about to become swallowed up by the darkness. Twilight looked on in shock as the Rangers flailed into the darkness after their captured captain. Raucous rustling and shouting emanated from the mysterious zamboni area as a struggle continued. Suddenly, all five Rangers were spat back out onto the ice tied up in a giant pony bundle. Stepping out from darkness were the Golden Leafs, showing up in the nick of time to help out their best friend. Twilight shot up like a rocket and happily dashed off toward her friends.
“You girls did show up! You have no idea how relieved I am.”
Applejack drifted forward to speak. “After I heard how you came ‘round to apologize today, me and the girls got together and we discussed how childish we were all bein’ before and durin’ the Appleloosa game. You had every right to be angry with us and for that, we apologize to you, sugarcube.”
“We behaved like absolute mules, dear. We’re ready to focus and do whatever it takes to perform as a team!” said Rarity.
Twilight had the world’s largest smile and was happy the ugly episode was appearing to be behind them.
“As for you jokers, you better believe we’re telling the EHL about this!” shouted Rainbow into Trixie’s ear. Trixie and the Rangers tried shouting but they were muffled by the ropes constricting their mouths.
Fluttershy began shoving the bundle of Rangers toward the opened doors. “We’ll find a nice, quiet place for these meanies and then we can get back to practicing and being a team again.”
Pinkie bounced around, playfully slapping the Rangers’ helmets like a set of bongo drums as they were being removed from the ice, their growls and grunts failing to break through. After the Rangers were taken care of, the Golden Leafs held their first practice back together. Twilight taught a new play which the Golden Leafs’ ran to near perfection by the end. The play would see the Golden Leafs set up in a pentagon formation with Rainbow behind the net, Rarity and Applejack at their respective faceoff circles, and Fluttershy and Twilight at the points on the blue line. Rainbow would control the puck and quickly pass to either Rarity or Applejack who would then immediately pass it back to the point where Fluttershy and Twilight switch places and receive the pass on the cross and fire away.
During the practice, Trixie frantically tried using her magic to free herself and her team. By time the Rangers were finally free, the Golden Leafs’ practice was over and they had left the arena. Although her team was wrangled up and thwarted by Twilight and company, Trixie was not terribly upset as she had spied on the entire practice and knew the Golden Leafs’ new trick. Trixie relayed the information to her team and they left the arena, prepared to gain revenge for their humiliation at the Golden Leafs’ hooves.
---
Game night arrived and Ponyville Pond was sold out for the final home game of the regular season. A sea of royal blue covered the arena as nearly every pony in attendance was now sporting a Golden Leafs’ jersey. In celebration of the final home game, white pom-poms were given away and the sea of royal blue became a polka-dotted spectacle of royal blue and white. Golden Leafs fans cheered and waited anxiously for their team to get back to their winning ways, unaware of the turmoil that had befallen their team during the week.
In the locker room, the Golden Leafs were finished getting dressed and were aware and ready for Manehattan’s revenge. In the visitor’s locker room, Trixie furiously marched in front of her team and riled them up with more scathing words about Twilight and the Golden Leafs. It was time for the teams to hit the ice as the one minute horn sounded. The Golden Leafs made it to the ice first which prompted a loud eruption of cheering. The cheering switched to equally loud booing when the Rangers stepped into the rink. The Rangers, cold and calculating, stuck to their side of the rink and skated around while Ponyville did the same. Sweetie Belle and Pinkie Pie slid from side to side in their creases to chip up the ice for traction as the referee grabbed the game puck. Rainbow bent over and skidded to a stop at the faceoff dot while Octavia met her head on. With both goalies ready and the Rangers and Golden Leafs prepared for the faceoff, the puck dropped on the home finale.
---
Octavia won the opening draw and flung it back to the newest Ranger, Bon Bon, who dumped it into the Ponyville zone. Manehattan chased after the puck and maintained control for a decent chunk of time. Twilight directed the defense and was calling out instructions and things she noticed the Rangers were doing. Manehattan kept passing out of the Golden Leafs’ reach, trying to find a window to shoot through. Their passing got quicker and soon they were getting their shooting opportunities. Pinkie faced five shots and stopped them all, holding onto the fifth one for a break in the play. Twilight gathered up her team and told them that as soon as they finally break into the Rangers’ zone, run the play they practiced. With the faceoff off to Pinkie’s right, Rainbow won the draw and Ponyville skated up the ice for their first offensive series.
Applejack dumped the puck into the corner with Rainbow flying through to retrieve it. Rainbow swooped past Trixie and had the puck behind the net as her teammates got set into their positions. Trixie looked back to see the Golden Leafs’ formation and knew it was their new play. Trixie peeled away from Rainbow and sprinted toward the middle, waiting for the next pass. Rainbow handed the puck off to Rarity on the left faceoff circle as Twilight and Fluttershy switched places along the blue line. As Rarity flicked her stick to pass to Twilight, Trixie jumped up into the passing lane and intercepted Rarity’s feed. Twilight and Fluttershy stumbled a bit trying to turn quickly to give chase to the streaking Trixie. Trixie was all alone for a breakaway and Pinkie skated up to cut down the angle. Trixie drifted to the right but suddenly snapped a long slap shot to the top left corner. Pinkie was caught off-guard by Trixie’s misdirection and the puck slammed up into the net. Trixie began her arrogant laughter as the Ponyville crowd booed.
”Manehattan goal, scored by number 4, Trixie.
Trixie broke away from her teammates’ goal celebration to yell up to Spike.
“THAT’S THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIXIE, YOU LITTLE PIPSQUEAK!”
”Geez sorry. Manehattan goal, scored by number 4, The Great and Powerful Trixie.
The Golden Leafs gathered around Twilight and were in shock of what just happened.
“That was just bad luck. There’s no way Trixie knew what we were going to do, right?” asked Rainbow.
“An absolute fluke I say!” shouted Rarity
Twilight looked over at the Rangers, then up to the clock to see two minutes left in the period, and then back to her teammates. “Next time we’re on offense, let’s run it again. We’ll just have to pass faster.”
Play resumed and Rainbow won the faceoff back to Fluttershy who passed over to Twilight to dump it into the Rangers’ zone. Rainbow once again flew in after it as the others reclaimed their positions. This time, Octavia and Vinyl Scratch were in on the play. With Rainbow stalling behind the net with the puck, Trixie made a beeline for the back of the net to apply pressure. Octavia and Scratch shaded near Rarity and Applejack. With Trixie coming after her, Rainbow felt rushed and bounced the puck over to Rarity. Scratch stepped in front of Rarity to steal the puck away as Octavia broke for center ice, splitting Twilight and Fluttershy. Scratch spun around quickly to feed the puck up to the breaking Octavia. The puck was just out of Fluttershy’s stick reach and it landed on Octavia’s stick. Pinkie had to skate up again as she faced her second consecutive breakaway. Octavia turned her body so she was skating backwards into Pinkie. Pinkie was thrown off and completely unaware what was coming next. Octavia motioned that she would turn from her right side, making Pinkie shade right, but instead Octavia turned back around from her left side. With a mostly open net, Octavia blasted the puck in to give Manehattan their second goal. The goal light flickered and Scratch was the first to meet Octavia at the boards to celebrate once more.
”Manehattan goal, scored by number 15, Octavia, assisted by number 66, Vinyl Scratch.
Dumbfounded again, the Golden Leafs drifted toward each other with groans and moans pouring down on them from their impatient fans. Not much time remained in the period, so Twilight waited for the first intermission to address this alarming violation of their game plan. Play resumed but the rest of the period ran out unexcitedly. Both teams headed to their locker rooms to assess their first period performances.
---
During the intermission, Twilight furiously flipped through her sketches and notes on the Golden Leafs’ new play, hoping to find a reason for why it failed twice. When she couldn’t figure out the problem, she tossed all the paper aside and spoke to her team.
“Alright, so our play didn’t work. We’ll just have to leave it alone for now. Any suggestions on how to attack the second period?”
Applejack sat up quickly. “Let’s just hit ‘em! It’s ‘bout time somepony knock ‘em off their high horse. After what they were doin’ to Twilight at practice, they need a good whuppin’!”
“I’m all for that!” shouted Rainbow.
Rarity, remembering Twilight’s complaint from the previous game that she wasn’t physical enough, echoed her teammates’ sentiments. “Agreed! Let’s take out those ruffians!”
Twilight at first was surprised by Rarity’s remark but grinned with approval. Fluttershy meanwhile was getting antsy and fired up by her teammates’ plan. She walked up to the doorway and cleared her throat to get the girls’ attention.
“Ahem, girls, do you know what time it is?”
Confused by Fluttershy’s question, they all shrugged back. Fluttershy raised one of her legs to look at it as if she was wearing a watch. She then lifted up her head to yell, “IT’S CLOBBERIN’ TIIIIMEEEE!”
The Golden Leafs leapt to their hooves with great excitement and Fluttershy emphatically led them out of the locker room and back to the ice.
---
Both teams were back on the ice and the Golden Leafs were skating with swagger, despite their 2-0 deficit. Manehattan was puzzled as to why Ponyville were appearing so confident. Trixie banded her team together to get them to refocus. Each Golden Leaf nodded to the other as they set up for the faceoff. The puck dropped and the second period was underway.
Octavia won the faceoff but was immediately trucked over by Rainbow. Rainbow kept chugging on toward Bon Bon who fired the puck into the Ponyville zone in fear of getting hit. The referee held his hoof up as Twilight skated down to touch the puck for icing. Trixie gave Bon Bon a disappointed scowl as the faceoff moved to Sweetie Belle’s right. Rainbow won the faceoff back to Fluttershy who moved the puck back toward the blue line. Applejack stepped around Scratch and was open in the slot, receiving a pass from Fluttershy. Applejack was trying to cut to the crease but was sandwiched between Scratch and Bon Bon. Rarity blew past Lyra’s cover and set up behind Applejack, tapping her stick frantically. Applejack passed the puck off to Rarity and continued off to the corner to clear the lane to the net. With the slot empty of bodies, Rarity fired on her little sister. Rarity pinpointed her shot just high enough to zip past Sweetie’s glove hoof. The puck clanged the bottom edge of the crossbar and settled in the net. The Ponyville crowd was awoken and emitted a loud cheer as the goal horn sounded.
”Ponyville goal! Scored by number 9, RARITY! Assisted by number 88, Applejack! And number 0, Fluttershy!
The Golden Leafs’ goal salutation was a short one as they still had unfinished business, down by one. They reset for the center ice faceoff as the Rangers broke from their huddle. The puck dropped and Manehattan took back over. The Rangers’ offensive series was cut short by a Rainbow Dash pass interception. Rainbow broke toward the Rangers’ net with only Bon Bon skating back to challenge her. Bon Bon squared up with Rainbow and waited for her to make the first move. Rainbow narrowed her eyes and focused in on making a sick move. Rainbow held the puck over to Bon Bon’s left and Bon Bon skated up to steal it. When Bon Bon reached her neck out with her stick to steal, Rainbow squeezed the puck through Bon Bon’s legs and quickly shifted to Bon Bon’s right. Bon Bon was caught by surprise and got twisted up, falling to the ice while Rainbow approached the crease. Rainbow curled the puck off her stick and rifled it through Sweetie Belle’s five-hole. The goal horn sounded again and the Ponyvillians jumped to their hooves to cheer Rainbow as she jumped and crashed back-first into the boards in joy. The Golden Leafs rushed down to Manehattan’s end to congratulate Rainbow with the home crowd pumping their pom-poms in the air like a pulsating wave.
”Ponyville goal! Scored by number 20, RAINBOW DASH!
Visibly upset with their depleted lead, Trixie skated over and clunked Bon Bon on the helmet which prompted Lyra to push Trixie away from her friend. The Golden Leafs looked on in satisfaction as they were now in the Rangers’ heads.
Three minutes remained in the period and Twilight and friends were determined to grab the lead before intermission. When the puck dropped, the Golden Leafs infiltrated the Rangers’ zone and shuffled the puck around like a pinball machine. Their crisp, fast passing mixed up and confused the Manehattan defense and opened up a multitude of lanes to the net. Rarity had the puck on the left wing boards and was being pressured by Lyra. Bon Bon came in for the double team but Rarity kicked the puck along the boards to Rainbow in the corner. Bon Bon turned to go after Rainbow and Octavia began to close in to help. Seeing an open slot developing in front of her, Twilight stepped up into it, furiously slapping her stick. Rainbow heard the noise behind her and kicked the puck in that direction. Down on one knee, Twilight one-timed the puck right past Sweetie Belle’s blocker. Ponyville Pond erupted with celebration again as Twilight was playfully pushed down to the ice by her teammates in elation.
”Ponyville GOAAALLL! Scored by number 42, Twilight Sparkle! Assisted by number 20, Rainbow Dash! And number 9, Rarity!
The arena kept rocking with cheering and pom-pom pumping as the final minute of the second period ticked away. When the period horn sounded, the crowd volume peaked again as the Golden Leafs left the ice with a 3-2 lead.
---
The Golden Leafs’ locker room was the most festive it had been in ages. Twilight and company proudly traded hoof and chest bumps as they decided to stick to their plan of hitting everything in sight.
Off in the Rangers’ locker room, Trixie stewed in the corner and tried scheming up a devious plan. She recalled in their previous meeting against Ponyville back in Manehattan that Rarity was greatly distressed when Sweetie Belle was shot on. Trixie emerged from her evil planning session and addressed the Rangers.
“Oh Sweetie Belle, could you be a dear and go grab me a bottle of water to drink?”
“Sure thing, captain!” squeaked the young filly as she shuffled off into the hallway in her goalie gear. Trixie made sure Sweetie Belle was out of hearing range before sharing her plot with the others.
“Alright Rangers, I know how we’re going to win this game. I’m going to place a spell on Sweetie Belle so that whenever Ponyville tries to take a shot on her, she’ll start howling in pain. We will play every pony extremely tight on defense except her sister, Rarity. Leave Rarity open. With Sweetie Belle in immense pain, Rarity won’t have the heart to shoot. We’ll control the puck and steal the victory back! Mwahahaha!”
The Rangers joined in on Trixie’s laughing when Sweetie Belle waddled back into the locker room. The laughter stopped as Sweetie handed over the bottled water.
“Aww, did I miss a funny joke?”
Sweetie’s teammates looked to each other and kept laughing under their breaths. Trixie answered Sweetie Belle’s question.
“Uhh, yeah, you did. It was a good one. Great joke Scratchy!”
Vinyl Scratch flashed a wide grin along with the other Rangers. With the final period close to starting, Sweetie Belle led the Rangers back toward the ice, unaware of Trixie’s magic beginning to work itself into her.
---
Ponyville Pond kept on rocking during the second intermission and they greeted their Golden Leafs back to the ice. The Rangers snaked their way back onto the rink with slimy grins on their faces. Sweetie Belle bounced all the way down to her net and got ready for the period. The teams met at center ice for the faceoff.
Trixie’s evil plan couldn’t start just yet because the Rangers held the puck in the Golden Leafs’ zone. Lyra had the puck in the corner where Rarity pushed her against the glass, trying to poke the puck away. Octavia joined in the scrum and pushed Rarity away. Lyra passed the puck to the blue line to Bon Bon who dumped it right back to the same corner to Octavia who was now alone. While waiting for a teammate to get open, Octavia lost focus and had the puck swiped out from under her skates by Rainbow. Rarity began breaking down the ice and called for the puck. Rainbow zinged the puck down to Rarity, just out of Bon Bon’s reach. Rarity passed center ice and was on a breakaway. Pain began to ripple throughout Sweetie Belle’s body. As Rarity came closer, Sweetie Belle couldn’t endure the pain anymore and she ripped her mask off, howling in agony. Rarity completely stopped her stride, dropped her stick, and rushed over to Sweetie. The whistle blew to stop play as Rarity tended to her sister.
“What’s wrong, Sweetie? Are you hurt? Tell big sister where you’re hurting. I’ll make it all better!”
Because play was now stopped, the pain inside Sweetie Belle quickly dissipated. Sweetie Belle was confused and didn’t know what to tell Rarity.
“I don’t know. It felt like my horn and my whole body was on fire but it’s stopped. I’m not hurt anymore!”
Rarity eased up. “Whew, that’s a relief. If you feel hurt again, tell me and we’ll help you.”
“Okay!”
Trixie was pleased that her plan helped prevent a breakaway attempt as the Rangers readied for the next faceoff in their own zone. Twilight skated over to Rarity to check if everything was okay. Rarity shook her head yes with a relieved look on her face. The puck dropped to resume play and Manehattan took control back over.
In the Ponyville end, the Rangers tried working the puck around but the Golden Leafs kept to their hitting strategy, knocking around every Manehattan puck handler. Octavia had the puck on the right wing boards with Fluttershy and Applejack closing in on her. Rainbow was spying over, looking to intercept a possible pass. Octavia kicked the puck down into the corner where Scratch took over control. Rainbow decided to make a move and sprinted toward Scratch. Scratch noticed Rainbow and pushed the puck back to Octavia in a panic. Rainbow finished her check on Scratch as Octavia curved toward the net with Fluttershy on her. Octavia passed off to Bon Bon at the blue line who blindly ripped a shot on net. The puck glanced off Pinkie and landed off to the right side of the net. Lyra was in the right place at the right time and cleaned up the lucky rebound to tie the game up at 3 each. Lyra was mobbed by Trixie and the Rangers as Pinkie pulled out and ate a cupcake from her bottle and the Golden Leafs smacked their sticks to the ice in frustration.
”Manehattan goal, scored by number 10, Lyra. Assisted by number 20, Bon Bon, and number 15, Octavia.
The raucous noise level was shot down to silence as it became a brand new game with five minutes remaining in the period. Rainbow won the ensuing faceoff and the Golden Leafs pushed the puck into the Manehattan end. In accordance with their new strategy, the Rangers defended each Golden Leaf, except Rarity, very closely. Rainbow was double-teamed as she tried to move the puck around. Somehow the puck squirted out to Rarity who had it on the left wing. Rarity turned to face the net and wound up for a shot. Immediately, a swell of pain flowed through Sweetie Belle and she began to yell out from behind her mask, “OWWWWWW!” Rarity stopped again to care for Sweetie but Octavia swooped in to steal the puck. With the Rangers heading back down the other way, Sweetie’s yelling stopped and she reverted back to normal. Twilight saw the entire situation from the blue line and noticed a small glow out of the corner of her eye. When Sweetie Belle began her screams, Trixie’s horn had the faintest of aura around it which caught Twilight’s attention. Before Twilight could link it together, she was sprinting back on defense to break up Manehattan’s rush.
The Golden Leafs recovered and played strong defense, denying Manehattan any room to shoot as the period ticked down to two minutes left. The play stopped after Pinkie held onto a save. With time to think, Twilight quickly pieced together what she saw with Trixie and Sweetie Belle. She was about to tell Rarity but couldn’t since the referee had already begun to drop the puck for the next faceoff. Play was back on and Ponyville grabbed the puck and began their trek down the ice. Applejack carried the puck in over the blue line but was closely followed by Scratch. Applejack worked the puck all the way to the corner where Scratch pushed her against the boards. Rainbow tried to swoop in to swipe the puck away but Trixie and Bon Bon were right on her flank. Rainbow missed and Applejack had to try to head back toward the blue line. Twilight called for the puck from Applejack and received it with a minute and twenty seconds left. Twilight was immediately pressured by Lyra and had no choice but to zip the puck over to a wide open Rarity. Trixie saw the puck heading toward Rarity and began imposing her spell early. The pain returned within Sweetie Belle and she began writhing in agony in the crease. Rarity now had the puck and completely froze. Rainbow and Applejack yelled out “SHOOT!” but Rarity stood petrified as Sweetie Belle couldn’t hold it in any longer and was screaming once again. Trixie swooped by and took the puck away with Scratch heading up ice.
“Say goodnight, losers!” smugly proclaimed Trixie as she pushed the puck up to Scratch who had a two-on-one with Lyra and only Fluttershy back on defense. Rarity dashed toward her sister who was fine again. At the other end, Scratch and Lyra approached Pinkie and Fluttershy while the others sprinted to catch up. Scratch faked a pass to Lyra which caused Fluttershy to stutter and get beat. Vinyl Scratch stayed wide on the wing and fired at the net, totally missing it wide. However, it was not a missed shot, but a strategic bounce pass off the back boards. The puck angled off and landed right onto Lyra’s stick on the other side of Pinkie. Lyra nudged the puck right past Pinkie’s outstretched kick save and the Rangers stole the lead with only thirty seconds left. An immense groan bellowed out from the crowd as Lyra was tackled into the corner by her teammates.
”Manehattan goal, scored by number 10, Lyra. Assisted by number 66, Vinyl Scratch, and number 4, The Great and Powerful Trixie.
Many of the Golden Leafs faithful stood up and began marching toward the exits as Twilight called a timeout to get Pinkie out of her goalie gear to be an extra attacker.
During the timeout, Twilight informed Rarity of what she figured out.
“Sweetie Belle isn’t in any real pain!”
Rarity was shocked by Twilight’s words and was about to get in her face but Twilight continued. “I noticed that whenever you were about to shoot, Trixie’s horn had a glow around it, and right away Sweetie Belle began her screaming. It must be Trixie who’s hurting her!”
“OH, SHE’S GOING TO GET IT!” yelled Rarity. Rarity broke away to chase after Trixie before Twilight hustled to block her.
“No, we’ll take care of Trixie after the game is over. There’s thirty seconds left. We’ll make Trixie pay, I promise.”
The referee skated by to tell Twilight to wrap it up as the play was about to resume again. Pinkie was out of her goalie pads and was ready to help the final rush. The puck dropped at center ice but Manehattan won the draw. They played keep away, not allowing Ponyville to come close to touching the puck as time ran out. When the final horn sounded to signal the end of the game, Twilight immediately took off her helmet and used her magic to freeze Trixie in mid-stride. Trixie began to struggle but wasn’t moving.
“Hey! What’s going on here!?”
Before her teammates could help her, the other Rangers were corralled and were being held against the boards by the other Golden Leafs. With Trixie unable to move and teed up, Rarity began charging from the opposite end of the ice. Rarity angrily gained speed and locked in on Trixie who was frantically panicking. “YOU DO NOT HARM MY SWEETIE BELLE!” yelled Rarity before gritting her teeth and readying her pounce. Trixie let out an exasperated yell as Rarity uncoiled and flew like a missile toward her, with Twilight releasing the magical bind. SLAM! Trixie was hurled across the ice and skidded to a crashing halt into the boards. Twilight and Rarity skated up to Trixie and looked down upon her as she was now the one writhing and wincing in pain.
“YEAH! HOW DO YOU LIKE THAT?!” yelled Rarity in Trixie’s face.
Twilight had to keep Rarity from going off the deep end. Holding Rarity away, Twilight turned back to the trembling Trixie. “We’re reporting you to the EHL right away! How low do you have to stoop in order to win? How could you hurt your own teammate? And a young filly at that! I hope you learned your lesson!”
Trixie didn’t respond and she was curled up into the fetal position. Rarity skated up to the other Rangers and roared at them fiercely. Horrified, the Rangers kept themselves pinned to the boards as Applejack, Rainbow, Pinkie, and Fluttershy released them from their clutches. The Golden Leafs skated backwards, keeping their eyes locked with the Rangers as they went toward the exit. Rarity grabbed Sweetie Belle and directed her to the Golden Leafs’ locker room. When Rarity was finally off the ice, the Rangers rushed over to help their captain up. Trixie had trouble regaining her balance and wiped out onto the ice again.
---
In the locker room, Fluttershy and Pinkie tried to calm Rarity down while Twilight wrote out a letter to the EHL offices about the Rangers’ actions not only that night, but during the practice the other day. Included in the scroll was the spy device Trixie had planted in the boards. Applejack noticed it during the big confrontation after the game and took it with her into the locker room. Twilight examined the device and deduced it was some sort of camera. She hoped there would be visual evidence for the EHL to see to help their case. Spike came down from the announcing booth and fired the scroll away. Applejack and Rainbow went over to praise Rarity for her vicious hit as she was now relaxed. Sweetie Belle had trouble taking her pads off but was helped by Pinkie. With a fiery belch, Spike spit out a response scroll from the EHL.
”From the Offices of the Equestria Hockey League:
Based on your accusations and the device you sent, the EHL has decided to launch a full investigation on the Manehattan Rangers on the charges of tampering and illegal use of magic. We request the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ presence at a trial hearing at EHL Headquarters in Canterlot next week on this matter. This should be more than accommodating since the Golden Leafs’ final regular season game is against the Canterlot Equestriens in Canterlot.
EHL Board of Discipline”
The Golden Leafs were pleased with the EHL’s response and were excited to bring Manehattan to justice. Even though they had lost their third straight game, the team was too preoccupied with Sweetie Belle’s safety to care about their record. The team was back together and united once again for a new, minor cause along with the original goal, to battle for the Celestia Cup while having fun as a team. Twilight and friends had officially hit rock bottom but were now on their way back up the mountain. Will they be able to build some momentum in one last regular season game before the playoffs arrive?
To Be Continued
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Three Stars from Manehattan @ Ponyville
* Vinyl Scratch (MHN)
** Rainbow Dash (PGL)
*** The Great and Powerful Trixie (MHN)
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
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Cloudsdale 1, APPLELOOSA 0
FILLYDELPHIA 3, Canterlot 2
EHL Standings (with Projected Playoff Seedings, 1 & 2 byes, 3 vs. 6, 4 vs. 5)
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(1) Cloudsdale 6-3
(2) Appleloosa 6-3
(3) Manehattan 5-4
(4) Canterlot 5-4
(5) Ponyville 3-6
(6) Fillydelphia 2-7
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XFizzle
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1005
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Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-24T22:27:36+00:00
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2011-09-24T22:27:36+00:00
| 2,847 |
Equestria Hockey League Part XII – Season Wrap-Up
by XFizzle
Off to Canterlot were the Ponyville Golden Leafs on a sunny, yet chilly winter morning. Inside the carriage, Twilight and company, accompanied by Sweetie Belle, eagerly chattered about things to do once they arrived in the capitol city. Rarity was the most excited of the ponies as she bounced from window to window, trying to observe Canterlot’s splendor.
“Ooh we absolutely MUST visit Hoity Toity’s fashion studio. It’s been ages since I’ve seen him last!”
Applejack yanked Rarity away from the window. “Hold yer horses there, Rarity. We need ta’ see Canterlot’s famous golden apple trees! I’ma take an apple home and plant its seeds at the farm!”
“Pfft, golden apples, schmolden schmapples. I’m going to find the headquarters of the royal air guard and check out their awesome military stuff and maybe learn a new trick!” said Rainbow Dash with an excited squeak in her voice.
Fluttershy tried pushing Rainbow out of the way to the window but her gentle nudge was no use. Fluttershy instead moved her head all about to look over Rainbow. “I’m going to re-introduce myself to all the cute, little winter critters. I hope they can forgive me and see that I am really kind.”
“I’m going to throw a BIG snowball fight for all of Canterlot! We can build snowponies, go sledding, and maybe sing our favorite winter songs!” squealed Pinkie Pie as she forcefully bumped both Fluttershy and Rainbow away from the window, knocking them into Twilight’s lap.
Twilight warmly smiled at her friends’ anxiousness to explore her hometown, but she was first concerned about the trial at EHL Headquarters scheduled for that afternoon. “I can’t wait to show you girls around Canterlot. We really didn’t get to see a whole lot when we were here for the Grand Galloping Gala. Luckily our game against the Equestriens isn’t for a couple days so we have plenty of time to explore! But before we get too excited, we have the hearing at the EHL offices to deal with. We have to see what will happen to Sweetie Belle here.” Twilight gave Sweetie Belle a pat on the head.
“The EHL better make the right decision about those despicable Rangers! I bet you Trixie will try to weasel her way out of it! She’s such a snake in the grass!” exclaimed Rarity.
“But I thought she was a weasel? You can’t be both a weasel AND a snake!” asked Pinkie somewhat facetiously as Fluttershy pondered what a weasel-snake would look like.
Applejack interjected. “I don’t know, Rarity. I reckon the Commissioner ain’t gonna be too happy ‘bout seein’ us again.”
“Yeah, because you went all crazy on Rose! Even though you got suspended, that was so cool!” said Rainbow as she extended her hoof to Applejack for a hoof bump to which Applejack obliged.
Twilight sat up to speak. “We will be ready no matter what the EHL decides to hand down. Let’s get through this hearing then focus on the Equestriens. It’ll be our last chance to start building momentum for the playoffs.”
“Okie dokie, Twilight! I can’t wait to party with Princess Luna again! She knows how to PARTAY!” said Pinkie as she danced in the center of the carriage. Pinkie stumbled over toward a slumbering Spike on the floor and accidentally stepped on his tail. Spike was jolted from his sleep in pain, unaware of what happened.
“OUCH! Wha-what was that?”
“Oh, sorry Spike! I didn’t see where I was dancing! I hope I didn’t hurt your tail too bad!”
Spike sucked on his tail to help ease the pain but had to quickly release it when a fiery burp rumbled out a scroll. Twilight opened the scroll to read it to everypony.
”My Dearest Student Twilight Sparkle,
You and the Ponyville Golden Leafs are cordially invited for a royal banquet on the eve of your match against the Canterlot Equestriens. Princess Luna and I are very excited to see you again. Good luck and I shall see you soon.
Your Royal Highness,
Princess Celestia”
Twilight’s unbridled glee made her heart race. The other Golden Leafs also bounced about the carriage with giddiness as they were looked forward to their first royal feast. However, as the carriage approached EHL Headquarters, the excitement in the air gradually calmed down into seriousness for there was business to settle first.
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The carriage came to an abrupt stop, flinging Fluttershy, Pinkie, Spike, and Rainbow to the opposite side into Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, and Sweetie Belle. Slightly dazed, the Golden Leafs brushed themselves off and exited their vehicle. The EHL Headquarters was a short, but wide building that stretched back pretty far. The pathway to the front doors contained a fountain shut down for the winter. The fountain featured the statue of a pony in full hockey gear. Upon passing the fountain, Twilight glanced over at the plaque at the front of the fountain and saw the name “Hayne Gretzky”. The ponies entered the main doors and walked into a bustling lobby full of business ponies. A lush, black carpeted mat extended from the doors to the main reception desk. The logos of the six EHL teams glowed on the walls leading up to the junction of hallways. Twilight and friends trotted over a giant EHL logo emblazoned on the mat in bright orange fabric as they slowly strolled into the league offices. They approached the reception desk where a secretary unicorn was leisurely talking on the phone while using magic on an emery board to file her hoof.
Twilight approached the desk and cleared her throat to get the secretary’s attention. “Ahem. Excuse me. We are the Ponyville Golden Leafs and we are here for the hearing scheduled for today.”
The secretary continued on with her phone conversation, not giving Twilight one inkling of notice. Twilight cleared her throat louder and tried again. “AHEM! Excuse me ma’am, but we are the Ponyville Golden Leafs and we’re here for the hearing.”
In a very uninspiring, monotone voice, the secretary moved the phone away from her ear and mouth. “If you need service, please ring the bell.” The Golden Leafs blankly stared on as the secretary placed the phone back on her ear to listen. Twilight located the bell at the far end of the desk and strongly pushed down on the button, making the ring loud enough to startle the secretary. The secretary put the phone down and angrily turned to face Twilight.
“What can I help you with, ma’am?”
“We’re here for the scheduled hearing today,” said Twilight sternly.
“Very well, I’ll let the Board of Discipline know you’re here.” The secretary picked the phone back up and pushed a button. “Hello? The Manehattan Rangers are here for their punishment.”
Twilight and friends smacked their faces with their hooves. Twilight spoke back up, “No! We’re the Ponyville Golden Leafs!”
“Oh, I mean the Ponyville Golden Leafs are here. Okay. I’ll send them in,” said the unhelpful receptionist. With the phone back on the receiver, the secretary pointed toward a long corridor and robotically instructed the Golden Leafs. “The conference room is down that hallway, the first door on the left. Thank you for visiting the Equestria Hockey League and have a nice day.”
Twilight led her team to the corridor and saw a sign pointing to the conference room they were told to arrive at. When the Golden Leafs entered the room, there was no sign of anypony. On one side of the room was a long, rectangular table with space for six ponies to stand while the other side contained a much longer table. At the head of the room, facing the two long tables, was a platform containing a podium in the center with chairs on each side. On the longer table sat a microphone and a nameplate that read “Ponyville Golden Leafs”. Twilight and company stood at their table while Sweetie Belle found a chair in the very back of the room to sit on. As the Golden Leafs got settled into their spots, the conference room doors reopened. Three briefcase-toting stallions in suits pompously trotted in, led by commissioner Gary Bettpony. The EHL officials took their spots at the platform with Commissioner Bettpony standing at the podium. Commissioner Bettpony retrieved his notes and smacked a gavel onto the podium for no particular reason but to feel important.
“Order! Order! This hearing is now in session. Where are the Manehattan Rangers?”
The Golden Leafs looked around and shrugged their shoulders at the Commish. Suddenly, the conference room doors flung open and in sauntered the Manehattan Rangers with Trixie at the head of the pack. Rarity leapt over the table at Trixie but was held back by Twilight and Rainbow with the Commissioner’s gavel loudly smacking on the podium. The Rangers took their spot at the opposing table and made faces at the Golden Leafs. The Golden Leafs kept looking ahead, not wanting to give Trixie’s crew any further attention. With both teams now present, the hearing began.
Commissioner Bettpony glanced over the papers in front of him and then addressed the Rangers. “Trixie, your team is being accused of tampering and illegal use of magic. As captain, how do you plead?”
Trixie tossed her mane back and smugly declared, “Not guilty, Mr. Commissioner!”
“OH BIG SURPRISE!” yelled Rarity, which elicited more gavel pounding.
“This is your first and only warning, Ponyville. Do not speak out of turn!”
Rarity was going to yell some more but Twilight used magic to zipper her lips up. Rainbow held Rarity down as she struggled to mumble angrily behind her zipped lips. The hearing continued on.
“Now, Manehattan. We received Ponyville’s grievance along with a recording device. After our league technicians reviewed the device in question, we saw some very demonstrative actions by you and your team. Care to defend yourselves?”
The Rangers all looked to Trixie who stood up and put her front hooves on the table. “Your honor, I assure you that the recording device you received was not ours. We arrived at Ponyville the morning of the game, therefore we could not have the time to plant it. It must be Ponyville’s device so that they can spy on visiting teams’ practices!”
Twilight immediately jumped up to interrupt. “That is an awful lie, Mr. Commissioner! The device must have clearly shown Trixie and her team bullying me during a practice! I saw her plant it with my own eyes!”
The Commissioner turned his attention toward Twilight. “There was no such footage as the device began recording at the start of the game. We did not see this ‘bullying’ you speak of.”
Trixie looked to Twilight and stuck her tongue out. Twilight pleaded her case again. “Well, even though there wasn’t footage of the Rangers’ bullying, I still saw Trixie place it on the boards! We learned a new play at that practice and during the game, when we went to execute it, Trixie was able to recognize our play and had a breakaway goal as well as an assist on a second goal!”
“That’s because you and your team are losers and can’t pass the puck!” shouted Trixie. Irritated, the Golden Leafs began to yell back at Trixie while the Rangers fired back with insults.
The commissioner slammed the gavel once again to stop the noise. “Enough! This hearing is going nowhere with a bunch of hearsay and shouting going back and forth. I’ll just cut to the chase. Manehattan, after reviewing the footage, we saw that Trixie’s horn was glowing for a significant portion of time which prompted your goalie to delay the game in pain. The use of magic during a game is illegal and is subject to strict penalties. Furthermore, placing your own teammate in physical pain, albeit not subject to the EHL rulebook, is still a violation of a high standard of morals we, the EHL, try to adhere to. As commissioner, I hereby declare your penalty for these infractions to be…”
Gary Bettpony then pulled out a magic 8-ball from his briefcase and shook it. Both teams had a great deal of confusion on their faces as they couldn’t believe that is how their league determines penalties.
The commissioner put the 8-ball away. “Just kidding. Anyways, Manehattan Rangers, you are officially fined 50,000 bits for tampering as we believe you did plant the device based on Ms. Sparkle’s light defense. Also, the previous game, which did result in a victory for Manehattan, is now hereby forfeited. Ponyville will be recognized as the winner of that game.”
The Rangers all put their hooves up on the table in protest with Trixie beginning to yell at the commissioner. Twilight and friends sat back and enjoyed hearing the rest of the ruling. With the shouting from the Rangers growing louder, Commissioner Bettpony slammed the gavel and raised his voice. “Furthermore, the contract of Sweetie Belle as a member of the Manehattan Rangers is now TERMINATED and will be granted to the Ponyville Golden Leafs!”
Sweetie Belle jumped out from her chair and ran up to Rarity. She received a big hug from her sister as well as happy pats on the head from her new teammates. Enraged, Trixie slammed her hooves on the table.
“THIS IS A TRAVESTY! YOU CAN’T DO THIS TO MY TEAM!”
The commissioner flashed a self-righteous grin. “Oh, that reminds me. I also read what you had to say in that newspaper interview, young lady! You think I’m a puppet for Princess Celestia do ya? You know, I was going to let you off easy but you since you reminded me of that scathing article…you are placed under severe probation! From now on, any shenanigans from you will be grounds for BANISHMENT FROM THE LEAGUE! How do like that?”
Trixie’s jaw dropped in absolute shock as the Golden Leafs pointed and laughed at Trixie’s reaction to the commissioner’s decree. Trixie desperately tried to backpedal in defense.
“B-but that interview was taken out of context! I didn’t mean that!”
As Gary Bettpony and his associates were trotting off to leave, he turned back toward Trixie to give one final remark. “YOU GET NOTHING! YOU LOSE! GOOD DAY MADAM!”
Trixie angrily stomped in place as her teammates tried to calm her down. The Rangers stormed out of the room while Twilight and friends mockingly waved goodbye to them. The Golden Leafs exchanged celebratory hugs and hoof bumps for their favorable ruling and the Rangers’ misfortune. Rarity let Sweetie Belle ride on her back as the Golden Leafs exited the conference room in complete satisfaction.
---
With their administrative duties out of the way, the Golden Leafs spent the rest of their afternoon in Canterlot exploring the city with Twilight as their tour guide. Each pony got to do what they had planned on the ride over. Rarity visited Hoity Toity, Applejack saw and picked a golden apple, Fluttershy played with a handful of critters, Rainbow Dash saw the royal air guard’s compound, and Pinkie Pie started a snowball fight with her friends and some unfortunate passers-by. Tired from the day’s fun-filled events, the Golden Leafs arrived at Twilight’s home.
Afraid of being embarrassed by her parents, Twilight quickly introduced her friends to them then hurriedly pushed them down into the basement where their slumber party would be held. Each time her parents tried to come downstairs to provide snacks or games, Twilight met them at the steps and prevented them from coming down any further.
The rest of the evening was spent chatting and playing fun games. Giggling and shouting echoed throughout the basement as the team bonded over conversation and a tiny bit of scouting of the Equestriens at Twilight’s behest. Spike and Sweetie Belle were the first ones to fall asleep, but soon the rest of the ponies followed to close out the long day.
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The next morning, Twilight was the first to wake up and she prepared a giant breakfast for her team. The Golden Leafs enjoyed the delicious breakfast and readied themselves for the day’s activities. The plan was for the team to run through a brief practice at the Celestia Centre before arriving for their royal banquet at the palace in the evening. With stomachs full, the Golden Leafs set out for another packed day.
At the Celestia Centre, the Golden Leafs worked on their agility and skating. Twilight introduced new skating drills to help her teammates change direction quickly since the Equestriens were known for their quick, sneaky plays as evidenced in the first meeting in Ponyville. The Golden Leafs also worked on their penalty killing as they allowed three power play goals to the Equestriens last time. Both Pinkie and Sweetie Belle took reps as goalie, taking on shots. Rarity was hesitant on shooting at her little sister but eventually became comfortable enough to participate fully. Rarity quietly vowed to herself that if Sweetie Belle goes in net during a game, that she would do whatever it takes to play better defense and prevent shots from being taken. The practice ended short, but it was effective, which pleased Twilight. After the ponies and Spike freshened up, they left the arena to head for the royal palace.
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A royal chariot pulled up to Twilight’s home to transport the Golden Leafs to the palace. Twilight and friends piled into the chariot anxiously, pushing and pulling each other out of the way to hop aboard. Once the dust settled, the chariot was off and away. It did not take long for the girls and Spike to arrive at the palace. Once everypony stepped out of the chariot, they were in awe once again seeing as it was their first return since the Gala. The palace was adorned with amazing winter ornaments. Giant crystal snowflakes and powder blue banners and tapestries hung from the towers. A line of trumpet unicorns stood along the main drag into the palace courtyard. They began sounding the horns as Twilight and her friends trotted their way toward the palace.
Coming up on the main hall, Pinkie Pie looked over to the left where the dining hall was. As soon as she saw the giant spread of food, Pinkie galloped over and was about to dive in. Twilight froze Pinkie with her magic and brought her back to the group. Pinkie was able to stick her tongue out to grab a bread roll before getting yanked back and was furiously munching on it. Twilight led the group up to the main hall where they passed by colorful stained glass windows depicting various moments of Equestrian history including their triumph over Nightmare Moon. The Golden Leafs were confused when neither princess was in sight. Suddenly, in a puff of purple smoke, both Princess Celestia and Luna stood before them, standing tall and proud. The Golden Leafs bowed to the princesses and awaited their greeting.
Princess Celestia trotted forward toward Twilight and company. “Rise Ponyville Golden Leafs for you have played admirably thus far this season. It is great to see you all once again!”
“It’s great to see you too, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna!” exclaimed Twilight.
Luna smiled back as Celestia began to lead everypony toward the dining hall. “Now that we’re all together, shall we eat?”
“Yes ma’am!” yelled Pinkie as she blew right past Celestia and started pigging out on all the food. Embarrassed, Twilight tried to wrangle up Pinkie but the princesses laughed at the scene. The other Golden Leafs took their places at the table along with Celestia and Luna, digging into the large feast as well.
After everypony stuffed their faces, the royal waiters cleared the table and brought out dessert. Before the Golden Leafs could take a bite, Princess Celestia stood from her throne to address them. Pinkie gulped her dessert in one bite and was nudged in the side by Twilight to pay attention.
“I hope you all enjoyed the food we’ve prepared tonight. Before this banquet is over, I have something to show you.”
Princess Celestia turned around to whistle a short, lovely tune. Almost immediately, two doors flung open behind her and two ponies trotted into the room. The two ponies were carrying a large, blue trunk, carefully bringing it over to the table while wearing white gloves on their hooves. The usher-like ponies unlatched the locks on the trunk and opened it. A bright, silvery glow emerged from the trunk as the Golden Leafs’ eyes widened. Standing tall on the table before the Golden Leafs was the elusive Celestia Cup. The Golden Leafs gathered around it and looked upon it with great admiration. Rainbow Dash went to touch it but was met with a slap on the hoof by Twilight.
“It’s…it’s more beautiful than I ever imagined it would be,” said the awestruck Twilight.
“Shiiiiinyyyy!” said Pinkie as she wobbled back and forth to see her reflection shrink and grow in the Cup.
“Amazing! Fabulous! Amazingly fabulous! I must have this for my boutique!” shouted Rarity.
“It would be so fun to show this off to Apple Bloom and Scootaloo! Maybe I’ll get a Celestia Cup cutie mark!” yelped Sweetie Belle as she jumped up and down to get a better view.
Applejack carefully scanned the trophy from base to top. “I reckon I could sell a lot of apples with this big ol’ hunk of metal sittin’ on the cart. It’s so cool lookin’!”
“It’s nice,” said Fluttershy softly as she imagined using the bowl of the Cup to give all the little birdies a bath.
Rainbow went to sneak another touch onto the Cup but was spotted by Twilight who threatened another slap. “If I have the Celestia Cup then the Wonderbolts will HAVE to let me in! They’ll be so jealous!”
“If you continue to work together as a team and learn the power of teamwork and friendship, then this radiant trophy could be all yours,” said Princess Celestia with a delightful grin.
“We’ll do our best, Princess!” shouted Twilight.
“Yeah!” responded the other Golden Leafs.
The Cup keepers placed the Cup back into its case and took it from the dining hall. With the evening growing longer, the Golden Leafs were ready to head back to Twilight’s house. Princess Celestia and Luna waved goodbye to Twilight and friends as they boarded the chariot back to Twilight’s home where they retired to bed immediately upon arrival.
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Dawn broke on the day of the final regular season game. The Golden Leafs lounged around the Sparkle residence until it was time to depart to the Celestia Centre. With the surprising visit from the Celestia Cup the previous night still fresh in their minds, Twilight and her crew were more focused than they have ever been before a game. After exchanging goodbyes with Twilight’s parents, the Golden Leafs set out to wrap-up their inaugural regular season.
As the girls and Spike approached the arena, a surprising, yet encouraging sight appeared before them. Outside the arena doors, not only were there a throng of Equestriens fans waiting to enter, but there was also a large contingent of Ponyvillians. They traveled to Canterlot to support the Golden Leafs and were making their presence known with cheers and yells. At the front of the Golden Leafs’ fan cavalcade was a large blue banner that said “GO LEAFS GO” in shining gold silk. The small sea of ponies sporting blue jerseys blended in with the red of the Equestriens’ fans as they made their way toward the entrance. The Golden Leafs all felt a wave of warmness ignite inside them and their focus doubled as a result. Twilight and friends trotted proudly toward the visitor’s entrance and found their way to the locker room to get dressed.
In the locker room, the Golden Leafs’ determination was palpable as each pony prepared for the game with a quiet seriousness. Sweetie Belle donned a Golden Leafs jersey for the first time, dressing at the stall between Rarity and Pinkie Pie. When the Golden Leafs were dressed and ready to go, Twilight stood in front of her team for the pre-game speech.
“Tonight we face our last chance to build momentum for the playoffs. We also face a team that already beat us already this season. We know Canterlot’s game and how they like to get in the referee’s ear. Tonight, we won’t put ourselves in a position for the Equestriens’ to even think that have a case. We saw on the walk in that there are a large number of our fans who traveled at this way to come watch us play. They are sacrificing their time, energy, and business to close up Ponyville and come to Canterlot. We shall not let them down! Let’s do this for them! Let’s get a win and take a strong step forward toward the playoffs! Hooves in, play smart on three!”
“One…two…three…PLAY SMART!” yelled the Golden Leafs.
The warning horn sounded and Twilight led the charge out from the locker room toward the rink.
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When the Golden Leafs reached the rink and stepped onto the ice, the electric atmosphere of the Celestia Centre poured over them. The arena was split fifty-fifty in Ponyville royal blue and Canterlot red. Dueling chants of “GO LEAFS GO!” and “LET’S GO ‘QUESTS!” brought the arena volume to unprecedented levels. Some surly Ponyville fans and Canterlot fans began to talk smack to each other but were calmed down by their peers. Both the Equestriens and the Golden Leafs skated around their ends, waiting for the introductions. Sweetie Belle and Pinkie Pie stretched off to the side and helped each other with warming up before Sweetie retreated to the bench to watch the game. The lights dimmed for the introductions which sparked the crowd back up again.
The Golden Leafs’ introduction was bland and succinct while the Equestriens had a lavish ceremony complete with royal guards providing a fanfare. The Equestriens’ roster had no changes as they were the same team who defeated Ponyville four games back in a 3-0 shutout. The Golden Leafs couldn’t crack the scoreboard last time but they were poised and ready to start this game with a loud, visiting fan base rallying behind them.
With introductions over, the referee grabbed the puck and brought both teams into the center circle. Ponyville’s road whites glowed under the arena lighting while the Equestriens’ home reds boldly stood out. Rainbow and Luna leaned forward for the faceoff and gritted their teeth. The referee checked both Pony Joe and Pinkie Pie and slammed the puck down to start the final contest.
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The game started out with Ponyville dominance as they kept the puck in the offensive zone. Each pass was sharp and clean and the Golden Leafs did well to get open for shots. Despite the early onslaught of offense, Pony Joe denied each attempt and had racked up six saves before Canterlot could take control of the puck. Canterlot tried to answer back with some offense but had a couple passing miscues, allowing Ponyville to reclaim control. With the puck back in the Equestriens’ zone, Twilight called to run their new play from the previous week. Rainbow took the puck deep behind the Canterlot net with Moondancer right on her. Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Twilight took their positions just in time for Rainbow to pass. Applejack received Rainbow’s pass as Twilight and Fluttershy exchanged positions. With Twilight drifting sideways, Applejack pushed the puck towards her, out of Hoity Toity’s reach. With the puck coming at her, Twilight wound up for the one-timer. Rainbow escaped Moondancer’s tight coverage and parked herself right in Pony Joe’s way. Twilight whipped the shot on net as Rainbow hunkered down in the crease. Pony Joe stretched around Rainbow to get an eye on the shot but couldn’t find it. With the puck coming in on net, Rainbow tipped her stick ever so slightly to deflect it. The puck glanced off Rainbow’s stick and into the bottom corner of the net. Half of the arena jumped with a yell as the goal light spun and Rainbow skated toward her teammates in jubilation.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 20, Rainbow Dash, assisted by number 42 Twilight Sparkle, and number 88, Applejack.
The “GO LEAFS GO” chant broke out again as the Golden Leafs finished their celebration and headed back to the faceoff circle. Luna skated by Pony Joe to give him a encouraging tap on the pads before making her way to the center to square off against Rainbow. Ponyville finally put a goal up on the Equestriens and wasn’t about to stop. After some back and forth offensive series by both teams, Ponyville had the puck back in the Canterlot end. Applejack dumped the puck into the corner with Rainbow giving chase. Rainbow reached the puck but was surrounded by Photo Finish and Hoity Toity. Rainbow held her ground but eventually succumbed to the prodding and poking of the Equestriens. Photo grabbed the puck and swept around the back of her own net to fire the puck off the boards. Fluttershy braced herself against the glass to keep the puck in and immediately passed to Rarity near the front of the net. The Equestriens’ defense collapsed on Rarity, prompting her to pass back to Fluttershy at the point. Fluttershy had an open lane to the net and fired off a shot. Pony Joe followed the puck until Rainbow once again skated through the crease to block his view. The puck pounded the top corner of the net without any movement from the screened Canterlot goalie. Fluttershy and Rarity embraced as the goal light was illuminated for Ponyville once more. The other Golden Leafs joined in the group hug as a mixture of cheers and boos emerged from the audience.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 0, Fluttershy, assisted by number 9, Rarity.
With a minute remaining in the period, Ponyville rested on their laurels and were sluggish coming off the ensuing faceoff. Canterlot, increasing their focus, surged into the Ponyville end and attempted to at least get on the scoreboard before the break. Luna had the puck on the left wing boards and passed it to Hoity before Applejack could ram her. Hoity wanted to pass to Blueblood on the other wing but the path was blocked by Twilight on defense. Photo glided behind the net and called for the puck, receiving it. Luna bolted toward the crease but Rainbow was on her tight. Blueblood stepped into Rainbow’s path, causing her to skate away to avoid the collision, leaving Luna open between the defense. Photo snapped the puck to Luna who spun around Fluttershy to claim it and then flicked it on net. The puck was tucked in right under Pinkie’s glove hoof and Canterlot was on the board. A goal horn loudly bellowed throughout the arena as the red-clad Equestriens faithful finally had a reason to cheer.
”CANTERLOT GOOOAAALLL! Scored by number 25, YOUR ROYAL HIGHNESS, PRINCESS LUNAAAAA! Assisted by number 55, PHOTOOOO FINISH! And number 77, HOITY TOITYYY!
The Equestriens finished their celebration as the Golden Leafs reassured Pinkie that it was going to be okay. The final thirty seconds of the period ran out with no further scoring. Both fan bases cheered their teams off the ice as the teams marched off to the locker rooms for the intermission.
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The intermission went by quickly as both teams made it back to the ice for the next frame. The Golden Leafs were pleased with the first period but were a little distraught about their let-up in the last minute. Their determination was still high as they briskly skated around before the second period started. The referee stood at center ice and called both teams over for the faceoff. The “GO LEAFS GO” and “LET’S GO ‘QUESTS” chants fired back up as the puck dropped.
Neither team held the puck for very long, only being able to pass a few times before they either fired a shot or were stopped by the defense. Canterlot began checking more, hoping that their newfound physicality would help them tie the score up. Remembering the uneven amount of calls against them from the first meeting, Ponyville decided to match Canterlot’s checking with finesse and speed. Four minutes of exciting back and forth hockey quickly passed, raising the crowd’s buzz with each series of shots.
Ponyville had fired eight shots to Canterlot’s twelve and found themselves back in their own zone on defense. Blueblood had the puck in the left corner and was hounded by Rarity and Twilight. Blueblood kicked the puck around the back boards to the other corner where Luna took over while battling off Fluttershy and Applejack. With Hoity coming into the scrum to help out Luna, Moondancer shifted over along the blue line. The puck squirted out of the corner right to Moondancer’s stick. With the Golden Leafs’ defense all shifted toward the right wing, Moondancer saw Blueblood open on the opposite side and zinged the puck right over. Blueblood settled the wobbly pass before firing on net. Pinkie took too long sliding over and the puck flew past her kick save. The goal horn sounded again for Canterlot as Prince Blueblood danced toward the corner while roses littered the ice. The Equestriens came over to celebrate and the arena was rocking again with the red half jumping up and down.
”CANTERLOT GOOOAAALLL! Scored by number 1, PRRRRRINCE BLUEEEEEBLOOD! Assisted by number 5, MOOOOOONDANCERRRR!
Twilight regrouped her team and calmed them all down by sticking to the game plan. She then set their focus to getting a goal before the intermission like Canterlot had done the previous period. With this mission in mind, the Golden Leafs set up for the faceoff. Canterlot won the draw and pinned the puck in the Ponyville end as time ticked down. Rainbow ramped up her speed and stole the puck from an unsuspecting Blueblood. Rainbow and Applejack sprinted the other way with an odd-pony rush. Rainbow passed to Applejack who faked the pass back to stall Moondancer. Applejack fired at the goal but Pony Joe gloved it and immediately set it down to pass off. Princess Luna was all alone cherry picking at center ice when she received the pass. She came into the Ponyville zone for a breakaway as Pinkie skated up to cut down the angle. Rainbow kicked into a top gear to get back on the play. As Luna went to shoot, Rainbow dove and poked the puck off Luna’s stick, eliciting an “awww” from the home crowd. The second period horn sounded off; however, the action was not over. The poke from Rainbow knocked Luna off-balance and soon she was skidding on the ice. Pinkie tried dodging out of the way when Luna barreled into her, knocking both her and the net over. The crowd gasped as both Luna and Pinkie were slow to get up. Eventually, Luna was up on her skates which received applause from the Equestriens’ fans. Pinkie quickly took her mask off and clutched her left knee, wincing in pain as her teammates rushed over to check on her. Twilight tried asking what was wrong but Pinkie howled back. Applejack and Rainbow helped raise Pinkie to her good leg and they carried her off toward the locker room with the bad leg daintily hovering over the ice.
---
The EHL physician carefully took Pinkie’s pad off and surveyed the injury. Pinkie sadly chomped on a muffin as the physician performed the “drawer” test to make sure no ligaments were torn. When the check-up was over, the physician trotted over to Twilight to inform her of the prognosis.
“I believe it is only a mild knee sprain. Some ice should help reduce some of the swelling but I’m afraid she won’t be able to play out the rest of the game.”
“Thanks, doctor,” said Twilight in disappointment for her friend.
Twilight then addressed the team. “Well the doctor said that Pinkie can’t play the rest of the game. It’s a mild knee sprain.”
“Awwwww! But I was having so much fun! What a bummer,” said Pinkie as she finished her muffin.
Sweetie Belle realized that she would have to go in for the injured Pinkie, causing her to bounce up and down anxiously.
“Hey Twilight! Twilight! I can play for Pinkie Pie!”
Twilight smiled at Sweetie Belle’s excitement and nodded. “Yes, you have to go in. I hope you’re ready!”
Sweetie put her mask on and growled. “Yes sir!”
Rarity had a concerned look on her face and grabbed Sweetie by the shoulders. “Are you sure, Sweetie Belle? You haven’t properly stretched. I don’t know what I would do if you harmed yourself!”
Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes and pushed Rarity away. “I’ll be fine, sis! It’s not like this is my first game. I can do this.”
Rarity looked deeply into her sister’s eyes and saw that she was indeed ready. Rarity sighed and let go. “Alright, I believe you dear.”
Applejack and Rainbow walked up to Rarity. Applejack nudged Rarity. “If it makes ya feel any better, we’ll do our best ta’ help out on defense so that way Canterlot cain’t get too many shots off.”
“Yeah! We’ll be smothering them like Fluttershy on a cute bunny!” exclaimed Rainbow as Fluttershy happily imagined petting a bunny.
Twilight stepped over and put her hoof in. “Alright, let’s tighten up the defense and hold Canterlot to as little shots as possible! Defense on three.”
“One…two…three…DEFENSE!”
Twilight moved aside for Sweetie Belle to lead her new team out back onto the ice for the final period.
---
When the Golden Leafs took to the ice, the ponies in the crowd noticed a much small goalie skating to the net. A murmur fell over the crowd as Sweetie Belle happily skated back and forth to chip up the crease. Before lining up for the faceoff, Rainbow skated by Rarity to give her a nudge on the helmet as Rarity was nervously watching her sister prepare. With the crowd perking back up in their cheers, the puck dropped for the final period.
True to their strategy, Ponyville played Canterlot extremely close and forced turnovers when Canterlot had the puck. Ponyville did not aggressively set up offensive plays, deciding rather to play passive and move the puck around methodically. With two minutes already melted from the clock, Canterlot recognized Ponyville’s keep-away scheme and reverted back to their physical game. The Golden Leafs tried to hold onto the puck, but Canterlot’s increased hitting eventually won them possession. The Equestriens blazed into the Ponyville zone and were ready to test the young Sweetie Belle. Luna entered in the zone with the puck, firing it off to the corner for Hoity Toity to pick it up. Hoity moved it along the boards back to the blue line before Applejack could hit him. Photo Finish held the puck for a moment before passing over to Moondancer. Blueblood took the opportunity to plop himself in front of Sweetie Belle, completely blocking her sight. Rainbow saw Blueblood’s screen and quickly flew over to nudge him away as Moondancer fired off a shot. Blueblood tried to get back to the crease but was held off by Rainbow, allowing Sweetie Belle to see the shot and come up with the big save. The Ponyville fans cheered as the play stopped. Sweetie yelled her thanks to Rainbow who responded with a tap on the pads.
On the faceoff, Luna won it back to Photo Finish who immediately passed it to Hoity who peeled away from the faceoff toward the side of the net. Fluttershy was slow to cover Hoity as he ripped off a shot. Sweetie Belle slid over and leapt into the air to grab the puck, drawing another loud cheer from the Golden Leafs fans in attendance. Hoity slammed his stick on the ice in frustration as the two teams set up for another faceoff. Three minutes remained and Sweetie Belle was making a wonderful stand in net. The Celestia Centre was loud again as the dueling chants were lobbied back and forth about the arena. On the faceoff, Rainbow won it back to Twilight who led the Ponyville break toward Canterlot’s zone. Twilight passed to Applejack who carried the puck past the blue line. Instead of pushing the puck into the corner, Applejack tried to deke around Photo Finish to rip off a shot. Photo matched Applejack’s stride and blocked the shot attempt. The puck ricocheted off Pony Joe’s pad and came out toward the center where Rainbow swiftly dove in to retrieve it. However, Moondancer was able to come over and push Rainbow away from the net. Rainbow circled around, looking for somepony to pass to. Rarity was open for a split second so Rainbow let a pass off. Prince Blueblood stepped in front of Rarity and intercepted the puck, pushing it up to Luna who had another breakaway. The entire crowd jumped to their hooves to watch the latest breakaway attempt. Applejack and Twilight skated as hard as they could to get back but Luna was closing in. Sweetie Belle patiently readied herself as Luna went to deke. Luna reared her head back for a shot, but it was a fake. Luna quickly brought her stick back down to push to puck over to the side. Sweetie Belle didn’t bite on the fake and followed the puck. Running out of space, Luna flicked the shot on net. Sweetie Belle dove toward the post and gloved the puck!
The pro-Leafs crowd roared as Sweetie Belle dropped the puck and passed it to Applejack with a minute and a half left. Most of the Equestriens were too far into the Ponyville zone to get back, giving Applejack and Rainbow Dash a two-on-one break with just Photo Finish on defense. Applejack crossed the blue line simultaneously with Rainbow as Photo stayed between them. Applejack lifted her stick to shoot, causing Photo to desperately dive toward her. With Photo sprawled out on the ice, Applejack quickly pulled her stick down and passed over to the wide open Rainbow. Pony Joe followed the pass and was squared up with Rainbow now as she was almost in the crease. Instead of finding a hole to thread the puck through, Rainbow passed back to Applejack on the other side. Applejack zoomed in like a missile and one-timed the puck into the goal past a diving Pony Joe. Applejack jumped into the boards with Golden Leafs fans smacking the glass as Rainbow tackled her to the ice. Half of the Celestia Centre was whipped into a frenzy as the Golden Leafs piled into the corner in celebration.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 88, Applejack, assisted by number 20, Rainbow Dash, and number 30, Sweetie Belle.
Only forty seconds remained as a giant “GO LEAFS GO” chant filled the air. Canterlot called timeout to pull Pony Joe for an extra skater. The Golden Leafs were anxious to resume play and to ride out the final seconds. Equestriens fans cheered to encourage their team to score a tying goal, bringing the arena to deafening levels. With the teams set, the referee dropped the puck. Rainbow skillfully outmuscled Luna off the puck and won the puck back to Twilight who took the puck deep behind her own net. The Canterlot forwards pressed on hard to get to Twilight but Twilight fired the puck around the boards. Rainbow grabbed the puck and was immediately met with a check by Blueblood. Twenty seconds left. Blueblood took the puck away from Rainbow and passed to Moondancer on the blue line. Rarity came up to pressure Moondancer but she passed it along to Photo. Ten seconds left. Both Pony Joe and Prince Blueblood crashed the crease and parked themselves in front of Sweetie Belle. Fluttershy and Twilight tried their best to push the screeners out of the way but they were not strong enough. Five seconds left. Photo lifted her head back for the shot and fired away. The puck flew like a bullet in on the crease. Both Pony Joe and Blueblood jumped to avoid blocking their own teammate’s shot. As time expired, Sweetie Belle caught a tiny glimpse of the puck and shifted over. The puck drilled her in the chest and bounced off the corner. The final horn sounded and the Golden Leafs were victorious.
Golden Leafs fans yelled and shouted as the Canterlot fans groaned and grumbled their way toward the exits. After the Equestriens skated off the ice in disappointment, the Golden Leafs swarmed their goalie and lifted Sweetie Belle up on their hooves for her heroic performance. Sweetie Belle giggled while Rarity had a small well of proud tears collecting in the corner of her eyes. The Golden Leafs placed Sweetie down before stepping off the ice to an enormous cheer from their fans.
---
Pinkie had a party set up in the locker room for her teammates when they arrived from their triumphant victory. After undressing and cleaning up, Twilight and her team partied with dancing and music in the locker room. When Spike finished bundling up all the equipment, he received a scroll. He returned to the party to hand the scroll over to Twilight. The music stopped as Twilight went to read the scroll aloud.
”From the Offices of the EHL:
Congratulations on the completion of your inaugural regular season. Based on the final standings, you will begin the Celestia Cup Playoffs at home in Ponyville as the #4 seed. The first round is a best-of-3 series with games one and three in Ponyville. Your opponent will be the Manehattan Rangers. Good luck.”
Upon hearing their opponent will be the Rangers, the Golden Leafs all formed a sly smile on their faces. The smiles gave way to laughter as they would worry about the Rangers later. There was more partying to be had. When the arena crew finally forced the Golden Leafs out of the locker room, Twilight and friends were met by their loyal fans that were still in Canterlot. The Golden Leafs signed autographs and took pictures before boarding their carriage back to Ponyville along with their fans.
The Golden Leafs achieved the momentum they set out to obtain. Their hopes for a long playoff run were looking brighter now that they pulled out a gritty win and are facing a shaky first-round opponent with a star player on probation. After taking in a glimpse of the Celestia Cup during their stay in Canterlot, Twilight and friends were determined to see it again, but this time getting to raise it over their heads.
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars for Ponyville @ Canterlot
* Rainbow Dash (PGL)
** Applejack (PGL)
*** Sweetie Belle (PGL)
Final EHL Standings
---
z-Cloudsdale 7-3
y-Appleloosa 6-4
Canterlot 5-5
Ponyville 5-5
Manehattan 4-6
Fillydelphia 3-7
z = clinched Princess’ Trophy
y = clinched first round bye
EHL Transactions
---
9/19/11 – Ponyville Golden Leafs receive the contract to Sweetie Belle (G) from Manehattan Rangers
9/19/11 – Manehattan Rangers sign free agent Doctor Whooves (G)
9/19/11 – Ponyville Golden Leafs sign free agents Big Macintosh (LW) and Spike (RW) to playoff roster
EHL Playoff Schedule
---
(3) Canterlot vs. (6) Fillydelphia
(Series tied 0-0)
Game 1: @ Canterlot
Game 2: @ Fillydelphia
Game 3 (if nec.): @ Canterlot
(4) Ponyville vs. (5) Manehattan
(Series tied 0-0)
Game 1: @ Ponyville
Game 2: @ Manehattan
Game 3 (if nec.): @ Ponyville
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XFizzle
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1005
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Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-26T03:27:08+00:00
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2011-09-26T03:27:08+00:00
| 2,712 |
Equestria Hockey League Part XIII – Quarterfinals: Game 1
by XFizzle
Playoffs fever swept through Ponyville like a voracious hurricane. Golden Leafs decorations and ornaments adorned nearly every house and shop. The streets were lined with blue banners and gold lighting. Ponyville Pond was the place to be during the week as Ponyvillians lined up at the box office daily to purchase their playoffs tickets.
While there was great excitement and buzz outside Ponyville Pond, there was great focus and determination inside the arena as the Golden Leafs practiced for their first game. On one end of the rink, the starters, led by Twilight, ran through some new forechecking drills. Twilight theorized that the Golden Leafs can pressure the Rangers into giving up more turnovers in their own end. More turnovers would then lead to more scoring opportunities for the forwards. On the other side of the rink, the Golden Leafs’ latest acquisitions, Big Macintosh and Spike, brushed up on certain sections the team’s strategy guide. Twilight gave Mac the penalty killing chapter and Spike the general offense and defense chapters. Sweetie Belle was in net while the magical practice dummies took shots on her.
During the study session, Spike nudged Big Mac to get his attention.
“Psst, hey Big Mac, I have an idea!”
Big Mac looked up from his pages at Spike. “And what’s that, Spike?”
“You know, since we’re special skaters for the playoffs, how about we give ourselves a cool nickname? I was thinking something along the lines of ‘The Sparkplugs’ or ‘Two Smooth Dudes’.”
“I reckon that would be mighty nice. How’s about the ‘Black Aces’? Try that one on fer size.”
Spike paused to mull the suggestion over. “You know, that’s not bad! It’s edgy, mysterious, just like us!”
“Eeyup.”
“Awesome! How about we toss these books and get to playing, huh?”
Just like that, Spike and Mac threw their guides aside and replaced two of the dummies in the play in their end. On the other side, Twilight demonstrated to the girls what she learned through her studies on forechecking. The drill involved more magical moving dummies carrying the puck out from behind Pinkie and the Golden Leafs applying pressure to try to steal away the puck before the dummies get to center ice. Rainbow and Applejack excelled at the drill because of their speed and strength respectively. Rainbow harassed the puck handling dummy while Applejack came in hard on the dummy that received the pass from Rainbow’s dummy. Rarity tried the drill but was found to be out of position too often as the dummies passed right by her.
After going through the forechecking drill a good number of times, Twilight called everyone together at center ice.
“Okay everypony! For the rest of practice, we’re going to have a little fun by having a shootout. Sweetie Belle, you’ll swap in for Pinkie every other shooter since Pinkie’s knee is still a little sore. As for the others, the order will go: Applejack, Big Macintosh, Rarity, Fluttershy, Spike, me, then Rainbow Dash. Sound good?”
“NO!” cried a voice from the entrance to the rink. Surprised, everyone turned around the face the direction of the voice. Emerging from the shadows were the Manehattan Rangers. One by one, they stepped onto the ice and slowly skated toward the Golden Leafs. Having the advantage in the numbers game, Twilight confidently skated around her group to face the Rangers head on. The Rangers kept a good distance away from the Golden Leafs. They quietly parted in the middle, revealing a bitter, reserved Trixie. Trixie looked around the arena carefully to make sure there wasn’t an EHL camera watching her every move. She then skated up to Twilight, looking Twilight straight in the eye and clenching her teeth.
“We would like to practice now, please.”
Twilight basked in the presence of the disgruntled Trixie and smugly replied. “No. You will have this risk when we say you can!”
The Golden Leafs all flashed arrogant grins as Trixie looked down to the ice with irritation. The Rangers began to turn toward the exit. “Alright then. We’ll wait.”
Rainbow skated up to Twilight and whispered in her ear. “You know Twilight, maybe we should end practice now. We don’t want to show them anything we’ve been working on.”
Twilight’s heart wanted to stick it to the Rangers and make them wait for their practice time, but her brain took over and convinced her that Rainbow was right. Twilight sighed and spoke back up to Trixie.
“Fine, you can practice now. You’re just lucky we’re feeling generous today.”
The Rangers quickly turned back around and Trixie looked up with a begrudging frown. “Thanks, losers.”
Twilight directed the Golden Leafs toward the locker room. Before stepping off the ice, Twilight turned back toward Trixie and her crew. “And don’t forget Trixie. Don’t do something you’ll regret. You never know when the EHL is watching!”
Twilight laughed as she finally departed. Frustrated that she couldn’t do anything, Trixie angrily slammed her stick on the ice.
---
Game day arrived in the blink of an eye and the Golden Leafs couldn’t have been more excited. Each pony woke up early because their anticipation wouldn’t allow them to sleep soundly. Ponyville was excited too as nearly every denizen was wearing a Golden Leafs jersey throughout the day while going about their business. Twilight called her team together to the treehouse a couple hours before it was time to go to the arena. Everyone was jittery and couldn’t sit still as anxiety bubbled inside them. Time was becoming a cruel temptress, slowly slouching forward. Unable to take the waiting any longer, the Golden Leafs decided to head for Ponyville Pond.
As the Golden Leafs walked closer toward Ponyville Pond, they were met by playoffs fever. The streets were lined with jam-packed merchandise booths. Various smells of delicious foods swirled about the cold air. Loud rock music was booming and grew louder closer to the arena. An army of rowdy Golden Leafs fans milled about, visiting the assortment of booths while waiting for the doors to open. Twilight and company were overwhelmed by the scene which piqued their excitement even more. They proudly galloped toward the players’ entrance before they could be spotted by their horde of fans.
---
In the now less spacious locker room, the Golden Leafs got dressed at their respective stalls. Big Mac, Spike, and Sweetie Belle each had a makeshift locker, a chair with their gear on it. When fully dressed with plenty of time left before hitting the ice, each player was either fidgeting in their stall or pacing the floor. Twilight wrapped her mind around what she was going to say for the usual pre-game pep talk.
“Okay team. Tonight is the night that begins a whole new season. Everything we’ve learned in the regular season will all come together now. The team in that other locker room is going to want to win just as badly as we want to. We can’t just match their intensity, we have to exceed it. If they hit us, we hit back harder. If they skate fast, we skate faster. If they play smart, we play smarter. I know we have the talent and the teamwork to succeed. Now, we’re going to treat each series like a war, and each game a battle. Tonight’s our first battle. Tonight is when we trot out onto the battlefield. We can land the first punch. Our fans are going to be fired up, rocking, and ready to go. They’re going to be in the trenches with us, for better or for worse. We’re going to do whatever we can to win not for ourselves, but for each other! Now, I’m ready to fight but I’m going to need confirmation from you all. Are you ready to fight, Applejack?”
“Ah’m ready to fight, Twilight!”
“Are you ready to fight, Rainbow Dash?”
“I’M READY, TWILIGHT!”
“Are you ready to fight, Rarity?”
“Bring. It. On!”
“Are you ready to fight, Fluttershy?”
“Let’s do this!”
“Are you ready to fight, Pinkie Pie?”
“RAAAAAWRRRRR!”
“GOLDEN LEAFS, ARE WE READY TO FIGHT?!?”
“WE’RE READY TO FIGHT!”
All together, the Golden Leafs leapt up from their stalls and huddled together in the center of the room. They all began to quietly mutter “Leafs…Leafs…Leafs” while clanging their skates together. Their muttering turned into chanting, becoming louder and faster. “Leafs…Leafs…Leafs! Leafs! LEAFS! LEAFS! LEAFS! YEEEEEAAAAHHHHH!”
Twilight broke from the huddle to trot to the doors. With a forceful push, Twilight blasted the doors open to the hallway with a yell. “LET’S GOOOOOOOO!”
Her teammates responded with raucous howling while fiercely marching out of the locker room. The Golden Leafs’ yells and growls continued during their trek toward the rink as the crowd’s cheering was becoming more audible. Twilight’s team reached the light at the end of the hallway and took a step over the threshold. Awaiting them was an endless sea of royal blue wrapped around the bleachers. Every pony in the stands was covered from head to hoof in blue and they pumped blue pom-poms. It was an intimidating “Blue Out” orchestrated by the fans. With each second of the pre-game countdown clock ticking away, the noise level raised another decibel. When the clock reached zero, the lights went out and an eruption of cheers rang out to the rafters.
A single spotlight shone over the Rangers’ doorway. Suddenly, the voice of Mr. Cake (taking over announcing duties for Spike) came over the speakers.
”Fillies and gentlecolts, welcome to game one of the quarterfinals of the CELESTIA CUP PLAYOFFS! First, a warm welcome for the Manehattan Rangers!”
“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
”At left wing, number 10, Lyra. At center, number 15, Octavia. On right wing, number 66, Vinyl Scratch. On defense, number 20, Bon Bon. Also on defense, the captain, number 4, Trixie.”
“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
”And starting in net, number 32, Doctor Whooves.
The spotlight flicked off as the Rangers skated around their end of the ice as a magical fog began to roll in over the Ponyville side. A video projected onto the fog, depicting the many highlights of the Golden Leafs’ regular season. The crowd erupted with cheers when they saw Rainbow’s time-expiring goal against Fillydelphia, Applejack’s fight with Braeburn in Appleloosa, and Fluttershy’s monster check on Gilda from the home opener. The highlight reel ended with Rainbow mixing it up with Caramelo and Applejack’s spearing of Rose to ignite the Fillydelphia brawl, resulting in the roof almost blowing off from the crowd’s yelling. The fog dissipated and spotlights began to roam around the ice. The opening riff to “Thunderstruck” by NeighC/DC echoed out as Mr. Cake resumed his announcing.
”And now, it’s time to introduce your PONYVIIIIILLE GOOOOLDEN LEAFS!! Starting at left wing, number 9, RARITYYY! At center, number 20, RAAAAAINBOW DAAASH! At right wing, number 88, APPLEEEEJAAACK! On defense, number 0, FLUTTERRRRSHYYYY! And number 42, THE CAPTAIN, TWILIIIIIIGHT SPAAARRRKLEEEE! Starting in net, the goalie, number 33, PINKIEEEEE PIIIIIEEEE!!
The Golden Leafs’ starters hit the ice running and skated swiftly around the end of the ice while the fans sustained their explosive cheering. Big Mac, Spike, and Sweetie Belle found their way to the bench to sit while the Rangers’ playoff roster newcomers, Blues and Orange Jr., made it to their bench. The lights came back up and the referees came out onto the ice. After another minute of skating, it was time for the teams to line up for the opening faceoff. The referee held the puck at the center dot while Rainbow and Octavia leaned forward to get ready. After a quick check with Dr. Whooves and Pinkie Pie, the referee slammed the puck down and game one of the Celestia Cup Playoff Quarterfinals was underway in Ponyville.
---
With the “GO LEAFS GO” chant reverberating overhead, Rainbow won the faceoff and Ponyville started their offense. The offense was slow to move the puck around and was pressured by the Rangers’ defense the entire way. The Golden Leafs tried to get an open lane to the net but were smothered by the Manehattan pressure. After a few broken passes, Manehattan controlled the puck and took it down the ice. Back in their defensive end, the Golden Leafs played a little bit of a zone defense. This opened up the ice for the Rangers to move and pass the puck. Bon Bon held the puck at the point with Rainbow coming up quick on her. Losing time to make a play, Bon Bon frantically passed over to Octavia along the boards. Rarity and Twilight converged on Octavia to get the puck. Octavia held the defense off as she looked for an outlet to pass to. With the puck held up along the boards, Lyra skated up toward the blue line and away from Fluttershy, cruising down the center and slapping her stick. Octavia whipped the pass between her legs right onto Lyra’s stick near the front of the crease. Before Fluttershy could get in on the play, Lyra instantly flicked the puck in the top corner, right above Pinkie’s blocker. The puck hit the net and the goal light flashed, hushing the Ponyville crowd.
”Manehattan goal scored by number 10, Lyra. Assisted by number 15, Octavia, and number 20, Bon Bon.
The Rangers finished up their celebration and headed for the center circle where the Golden Leafs were already waiting. Ponyville started out a bit sluggish and awestruck despite the rousing pre-game speech. Play was back on with seven minutes left in the first period. Manehattan won the draw and the Rangers were back in the Ponyville end. Twilight told the team to kick up the pressure on defense and not allow so many passes. The adjustment worked as the Golden Leafs held the Rangers to only one shot and soon had the puck back on offense. In the Rangers’ end, Rainbow tried to work her way to the crease but was shut off by Trixie. Rainbow and the rest of the Golden Leafs moved the puck better but were only able to fire off two shots, both of which were stopped by Dr. Whooves.
With three minutes now remaining in the first period, Manehattan forced a Ponyville turnover and took the puck back. Rainbow and Applejack stayed in the zone to forecheck and Rainbow was able to catch Octavia off guard. Octavia forced a pass out toward center ice that was stolen by Applejack. Rainbow skated hard to get back onside and came in on the rush. Applejack faked the pass to Rainbow and ripped a shot on Dr. Whooves. The puck zinged right by his glove but it just grazed the post, ricocheting the puck off to the corner. A large “awww” rumbled out from the crowd as Manehattan had the puck again.
Vinyl Scratch dumped the puck to the corner and rushed after it herself. Fluttershy came over to claim the puck but Scratch closed in hard, pushing Fluttershy to the glass. Applejack was coming over to help but Scratch squeezed out from the corner with the puck. She skated through Fluttershy and Applejack while Trixie shifted to the center of the blue line. Seeing Trixie open, Scratch pushed the puck to her and skated through Pinkie’s crease. Trixie fired a shot on net before Rainbow could dive to block it. Pinkie was mixed up from the screen and didn’t see the puck until it was sailing right next to her shoulder and into the net. Another large groan rung out from the Ponyvillians as Trixie slid on one knee in celebration, pretending her stick was a rifle and “shooting” down the Golden Leafs’ defense. Twilight and friends took exception to Trixie’s celebration and skated over to the Rangers’ huddle. The referees came over to separate the two teams and to set them up for the faceoff.
”Manehattan goal, scored by number 4, Trixie. Assisted by number 66, Vinyl Scratch.”
The rest of period included a flurry of desperate offense from the Golden Leafs but they could not crack the Rangers’ goalie. When the period ending horn struck, the Golden Leafs were given a small, quiet round of applause to help encourage them before heading off to the locker room.
---
In the locker room, the Golden Leafs were just as jumpy and jittery as they were before the game. To get her team to calm down and loosen up, Twilight had Pinkie bring in the record player and start dancing. At first the team was confused but they loosened up and danced as well. Rainbow and Applejack resisted but eventually they gave in and soon the whole locker room was calmed down. Twilight stood in front of her team to give them instructions for the next period.
“Alright, now that we shook the butterflies out of our stomachs, let’s get back to basics. That was a slow period. We got too caught up in the atmosphere and the hype. So this period, we’re going to go back to what’s worked for us against the Rangers in the past: hitting. Let’s pound some Rangers to the ice and get the crowd back into the game!”
The Golden Leafs accepted Twilight’s adjustment idea and marched toward the ice for the second period.
---
Facing a 2-0 deficit heading into the second period, the Golden Leafs refocused and were set to resume play. When the period resumed, their hitting mission began without a hitch. The Golden Leafs scrapped for every loose puck and were smashing Rangers into the boards nearly every second. Even Fluttershy and Rarity contributed with big checks on the Rangers’ forwards. With each hit, the crowd perked back up a little bit. Even though they were more physical, the Golden Leafs still weren’t able to generate any offense. Manehattan had the puck in the Ponyville end and were looking to add to their lead. Vinyl Scratch held the puck on the right wing boards. Applejack saw Scratch was vulnerable and came in for the check. Just as Scratch gave up the puck, Applejack led with her foreleg knee and drilled the Rangers’ winger into the glass. The crowd let out a cheer but it quickly turned into booing as the referee lifted his hoof for the penalty.
“Ponyville number 88, two minutes for roughing.”
Applejack sadly drifted over to the penalty box and took her seat. Needing a huge penalty kill, Twilight had Big Macintosh swap in for Rarity for a bigger body and more aggressiveness. The puck dropped to the left of Pinkie and the Rangers’ power play began. Twilight, Fluttershy, and Big Mac stayed in a box formation while Rainbow attempted to pressure the puck. The Rangers stayed along the perimeter, trying to pass their way to an open shot. The Golden Leafs shifted with each pass as Rainbow buzzed around. Finally, Rainbow’s pressure forced a Rangers giveaway and she dumped it down to the other end. When the Rangers came back into the Ponyville zone, Big Mac caught Lyra in his crosshairs and laid out a big hit along the boards. He then fought off Octavia and Bon Bon to carry the puck deep into the Manehattan end. With only forty seconds left in the Rangers power play, Big Mac was followed into the corner. He bolted himself down, keeping the puck between his skates and the boards so the Rangers couldn’t get to it. The crowd’s cheers grew louder as Big Mac was able to hold the puck for the entire forty seconds, killing the penalty with his immovable solidity.
Applejack was back on the ice to cheers as the momentum was very gradually creeping back to Ponyville’s side. Big Macintosh was given a nice round of applause for his effort on the penalty kill as Rarity stepped back out onto the ice for offense. Rainbow had the puck behind the net and saw Rarity coming into the zone from the bench. Rainbow tried to peel off toward the left wing boards to pass to Rarity but was dragged down by Bon Bon’s stick. Immediately the referee raised his hoof and blew the whistle when Dr. Whooves held onto a save. The arena was getting louder as Bon Bon made her way to the penalty box. Twilight grouped up her power play unit to go over their plan.
Rainbow won the faceoff back to Fluttershy as both the Rangers and Golden Leafs assumed their positions in the zone. Fluttershy passed over to Twilight who gave it to Rarity on the left boards. Rarity passed back to Twilight as Rainbow zigged and zagged in and out of the crease and slot to get open. Rainbow finally got open off near the right faceoff circle which Twilight zinged a pass over. The Rangers closed in quickly so Rainbow passed right back to Twilight as Rarity cut in front of her. Twilight one-timed the puck over to Rarity who was now squared up straight with the net between her and Fluttershy. Rarity picked a spot and rifled the puck on net. Dr. Whooves lifted his glove hoof up but it was no use. The goal horn rung out and the Golden Leafs were finally on the board. Rarity was engulfed by her teammates and the arena was rocking once more.
”Ponyville POWER PLAY GOOOOAL! Scored by number 9, RAAAARITY! Assisted by number 42, TWILIGHT SPARKLE! And number 20, RAINBOW DASH!”
The blue pom-poms were pumping again as the teams came together for the faceoff. Rainbow won the draw with only a minute left in the period. Twilight passed to Rarity who dumped it in for Applejack. Applejack got to the corner and quickly pushed the puck along to Fluttershy who came up on the boards to take the pass. Fluttershy passed to Twilight who quickly passed it over to Rarity. Rainbow cut in front of the crease through the Rangers’ defense to screen the goalie. Rarity fired off the shot but it came onto Rainbow’s stick. Bon Bon and Trixie sandwiched Rainbow before she could put it on net. With the puck lying at Rainbow’s skates, Applejack hustled to come up behind and shoot the puck. Ponyville Pond stood up to watch as the puck clanged off the post again and came to the Rangers. They iced the puck down to Pinkie as the second period came to a close.
The Manehattan lead was cut down to one goal and the Golden Leafs faithful were on their hooves and revved up. Momentum was swinging back Ponyville’s way as they went off to the locker room with their confidence recharged.
---
Ponyville’s mood was much more improved as they felt they were on the verge of taking the game back over. Twilight was back in front of her squad with new instructions.
“Alright everypony.”
Spike cleared his throat loudly to interrupt Twilight.
“…and Spike. We’re almost back in this game! Now, let’s keep up the hitting and let’s take our forechecking up a notch. Rainbow, Applejack, can you apply some pressure?”
Applejack stood up, “Sure can do, Twi!”
“Aww yeah, you bet!” exclaimed Rainbow as she saluted then gave Applejack a hoof bump.
“Good, now, let’s also fire off as many shots as we can. Doctor Whooves isn’t entirely battle tested so let’s give him everything we’ve got! More shots mean more rebounds and more opportunities. Let’s tie this game up then take the lead! Hooves in, pressure on three.”
“One…two…three…PRESSURE!”
---
Both teams hit the ice and the atmosphere was electric as the third period was about to start. The Golden Leafs and Rangers were ready to start up their battle again, setting up for the faceoff with serious demeanors all around. The referee skated in and dropped the puck for the final period.
Rainbow won the faceoff and the Golden Leafs brought the puck in. They fended off the Rangers and tried shooting whenever they had a chance. Most of the shots missed or hit off a defender, but Doctor Whooves made a couple good saves as well. The faceoff was to the left of the Rangers’ goalie which Rainbow won again. Fluttershy had the puck and was being targeted by a charging Octavia. Startled by Octavia’s rush, Fluttershy tensed up and gave up the puck. Before Octavia could burst off to a breakaway, Fluttershy desperately stuck her stick out to drag Octavia down. The referee raised his hoof as Twilight came over to touch the puck to stop play. Fluttershy skated off to the penalty box embarrassed by her giveaway and penalty. Big Macintosh came back on the ice for Rarity to help kill off another penalty.
“Ponyville, number 0, two minutes for hooking.”
With the faceoff deep in the Ponyville end, Rainbow continued her faceoff dominance and won the puck to Twilight who fired the puck down to the Rangers’ end. Rainbow and Applejack skated up to apply some pressure while Big Mac and Twilight stayed home. Trixie retrieved the puck and carried it up the middle. Applejack came up to apply pressure while Rainbow tried spying and determining which passing lane Trixie would go to. Vinyl Scratch came back up in front of the Ponyville bench to give Trixie an outlet. Rainbow saw Scratch out of the corner of her eye and blazed over. Trixie saw Scratch open and fired it toward her just before Applejack delivered a hard, open ice check. With the puck coming in faster than expected, Rainbow leapt at Scratch for a giant hit before the puck got to them. The referee’s hoof flew up into the air and the crowd erupted with boos. Twilight touched the puck again to stop play. Rainbow got into the referee’s face to protest the call but was escorted over to the penalty box.
“Ponyville, number 20, two minutes for interference.”
The crowd booed the referee’s announcement as Rainbow whacked her stick on the glass in front of her, scaring Fluttershy. The Golden Leafs were now facing a daunting 5-on-3 penalty kill. Twilight, Big Mac, and Applejack were the only ones left on the ice to take on the tall task. The crowd went back to cheering their penalty kill unit on as play resumed. Big Mac took the faceoff due to his previous experience back in the day. Octavia won the draw and the Rangers set up their play. The Golden Leafs set up in a triangle in front of Pinkie, with Twilight and Big Mac on the back two points and Applejack up front. 1:34 remained in Fluttershy’s original penalty as the Rangers passed all around the perimeter to set up a shot. The Golden Leafs stayed tight to their triangle, making sure not to screen Pinkie. Trixie had the puck at the point and reared back for a shot. Applejack dropped to a knee in Trixie’s path, forcing Trixie to pull back and pass off. The puck went over to Scratch at the right boards where she was met by Big Mac much to her surprise. Big Mac forced Scratch against the boards and furiously poked and prodded at the puck. Octavia and Bon Bon came in to help as well as Applejack. Five skaters were in a large scrum at the boards fighting for the puck while Fluttershy’s penalty was down to thirty seconds. Applejack was able to finally poke the puck free but it wrapped around the boards behind Pinkie. Twilight and Lyra were in a race to get to the puck which Twilight won. Trixie skated up from the point to cut down the angle on Twilight, but Twilight was able to flip the puck all the way down to Manehattan’s end.
The final ten seconds of Fluttershy’s penalty melted away and she jumped back onto the ice to a tremendous cheer from the crowd. Rainbow’s penalty only had thirty seconds left on it as the Rangers regrouped for a power play push. The Golden Leafs’ formation went back to the usual box with Big Mac joining Applejack in the front line and Fluttershy next to Twilight. Bon Bon shot the puck into the corner for Scratch. Fluttershy came over to challenge her but Octavia swooped by to take the puck. Ten seconds left in Rainbow’s penalty as the arena was ready to erupt. Octavia passed to Trixie at the point who rapidly fired a shot. Pinkie saw the shot all the way and kicked it away for a big save. Twilight rushed to the corner while Dr. Whooves slammed his stick on the ice to inform his team of the expiring penalty. With Rainbow’s penalty reaching 0:00, the arena hit deafening levels. Twilight fired the puck toward the penalty box. The Rangers were slow to react and Rainbow stepped onto the ice to pick up the puck for a breakaway. Everyone jumped to their hooves to watch as Rainbow closed in on the Manehattan goalie. Rainbow deked once, twice, then backhanded it to Whooves’ glove side. The puck just missed and flew over the crossbar, inciting a loud groan from the crowd. Trixie raced back and picked up the puck, but Rainbow stayed with her rebound. With Rainbow pushing upon her, Trixie anxiously flung the puck upward. The puck sailed over the glass just before the blue line. The crowd cheered again as the referee came over to take Trixie off to the penalty box.
“What? What are you doing? I didn’t do anything!!”
“Manehattan, number 4, two minutes for delay of game.”
Trixie continued her protest even after the penalty box door slammed on her. Golden Leafs fans were screaming their lungs out as the Golden Leafs were about to embark on their second power play with only three minutes left in regulation. Rarity came back on for Big Mac as Twilight gathered her team to talk about the advantage. The referee called the teams over for the faceoff to the left of Dr. Whooves. This time Octavia won the faceoff to Bon Bon who fired it down to Pinkie.
Pinkie skated up to pass the puck back up to Applejack who carried it into the zone. Applejack continued down the right boards with it and passed it back to Fluttershy at the blue line. Fluttershy passed back to Applejack who then pushed it behind the net to Rainbow. Rainbow stalled as Bon Bon came in to challenge her. Rainbow skated forward to pass it to Twilight at the point. Twilight looked for a shooting lane but it was clogged with Rangers. Twilight shuffled the puck over to Fluttershy but she didn’t have an open lane either. Rarity was engaged in a position battle with Lyra at the left faceoff circle and called for the puck. Fluttershy flung the puck to Rarity. Lyra came around to poke at the puck but Rarity used her backside to keep Lyra away. Twilight moved toward the center and wanted the puck. Rarity skipped the puck over to Twilight. Thirty seconds remained in the power play as Twilight passed over to Fluttershy as she couldn’t shoot again. Rarity broke free again and Fluttershy spotted her for the pass. Applejack crashed to the crease as Rarity spun around and ripped off a shot. Rarity’s shot was way off target but Applejack stretched her neck out to try to tip the shot back in on net. The puck grazed Applejack’s stick blade and snuck in between the post and Whooves’ pad. The puck rattled around the net and in one synchronized motion, the sea of blue all jumped into the air with a piercing yell. Applejack was mobbed by her teammates and Trixie angrily stormed out of the penalty box, yelling at her team.
”PONYVILLE POOOOWER PLAY GOOOOAL! Scored by number 88, APPLEEEJAAACK! Assisted by number 9, RARITY! And number 0, FLUTTERSHYYYY!”
Ponyville Pond was rocking again now that the game was deadlocked at 2-2. Only a minute remained in regulation as both teams wanted to put the game away for good. Rainbow won the draw and led the rush into the Manehattan zone with the crowd cheering them on. The Golden Leafs couldn’t get a shot off and back came the Rangers. Manehattan tried to run a play but it was broken up by Twilight. The puck pinballed back and forth in the neutral zone as time ticked all the way down to 0:00.
Golden Leafs fans were going bonkers as their team valiantly fought back to force overtime. Twilight’s crew proudly trotted off the ice to prepare for the overtime session.
---
Nervous energy mixed with adrenaline coursed through the Golden Leafs’ veins as they refreshed for overtime. Twilight reminded everyone that overtime was a full period and sudden death. Luckily, they were in a good share of close games throughout the regular season so inexperience wasn’t a disadvantage. No pep talk was needed as the girls, Big Mac, and Spike all understood what was needed to be done. The Golden Leafs marched out of the locker room with their heads held high and their anxiousness growing. They were greeted with a hero’s welcome from the crowd when they emerged back out on the ice. Manehattan made their way back to the ice as well, angrily skating around their side with booing and heckling pouring down upon them. The intermission clock struck zero and the horn sounded for the start of overtime. Every pony remained standing as the potential final period was about to start.
---
The puck dropped and Octavia and Rainbow fought for the puck at the center dot. The puck finally squirted loose to Manehattan and they came down to start their offense. The Golden Leafs played the Rangers tight and begun checking hard right away. Each hit was met with a raucous cheer of approval by the crowd as Manehattan struggled to fire a shot away. Twilight had the puck and was ready to carry it down the ice. Twilight looked up to pass but saw that the Rangers were forechecking hard in the neutral zone. Twilight was distracted for a bit, prompting Octavia to rush in hard on her. Twilight scrambled to pass, whiffing on the puck. Octavia scooped up the puck and quickly entered the Ponyville zone. Twilight hustled back to chase Octavia down and stuck her stick out to get the puck. Octavia’s skate caught Twilight’s blade and she tumbled down to the ice. A large gasp rang out to the rafters as the referee signaled another penalty. Twilight got up from the ice and was about to cry because of the predicament she was putting her team in.
“Ponyville, number 42, two minutes for tripping.”
Applejack and Rainbow skated by the penalty box to encourage their friend.
“Don’t worry, Twi. We’re gonna kill this penalty off lickety split!”
“It’ll be okay. We’ll pick you up and get you back out here!”
Twilight smiled slightly as the door closed on her. “Thanks, girls.”
Rarity went over to the bench for Big Macintosh while Rainbow and Applejack huddled the team together. The crowd perked back up to rally on the penalty kill unit. Rainbow settled down at the faceoff dot to Pinkie’s left and Octavia came in to meet her. The referee stalled before dropping the puck which was quickly taken by Octavia. Trixie took control as the Rangers set up their power play formation. Rainbow and Applejack nodded to each other and immediately rushed toward Trixie. Trixie let out a gasp when she saw the two Leafs rumbling toward her. She fumbled the puck and finally passed it away. The puck flew right past Lyra’s stick and onto Big Mac’s. Instead of flinging the puck down the rink, Big Mac saw Rainbow breaking for the blue line and he landed a beautiful pass to her. Trixie and Bon Bon were already retreating back on defense as Rainbow grabbed the puck just past the blue line.
Rainbow was ready to take both Rangers head on as she glided toward the center dot. Trixie was now flank to flank on Rainbow’s left, leaning in to try to take the puck back. Rainbow quickly held up and moved the puck between Trixie’s legs toward the center. The move made Trixie lose her stick but she stayed with Rainbow. Slowly rising to their hooves were the anxious fans as the play unfolded before them. Rainbow was now directly in front of Whooves with space quickly running out. Trixie motored in from Rainbow’s left to try and knock her off balance. Rainbow saw Trixie and brilliantly pushed the puck over to the right, hesitating to let Trixie fly right by her. Rainbow was now all alone as she closed in on net. Dr. Whooves began to dive for a poke check while Rainbow shifted back left with the puck on her backhand. Rainbow ripped the shot while the arena held its breath. The puck floated right over Dr. Whooves’ sprawled out body and into the back of the net!
Ponyville Pond exploded with a giant blast of cheers and ecstasy. Rainbow threw herself into the glass and was immediately smothered by all the Golden Leafs in the corner. The goal horn bellowed out, fireworks popped overhead, and blue pom-poms littered the ice.
”PONYVILLE GAME WINNING SHORTHOOFED GOAL SCORED BY NUMBER 20, RAAAAAAAINBOOOOOW DAAAAASH!”
Devastated and upset, the Rangers quickly shuffled off the ice and into their locker room. The Golden Leafs pony pile broke apart and happily drifted across the ice to deafening cheers from their loyal fans. Helmets and sticks tossed and scattered all over the rink were picked up by the Golden Leafs on their way to the locker room. Rainbow and her teammates waved to the fans before stepping off and trotting away from the ongoing celebration.
---
The partying and merriment spilled over into the locker room as the Golden Leafs undressed with big smiles all around. Pinkie brought out the usual party equipment for the team after they finished cleaning up. The Golden Leafs laughed and partied late into the evening with Rainbow as the pony of the hour. When it was finally time to go home, Twilight addressed her team once more.
“What an amazing game everypony! We’ll enjoy this win tonight. Seize this moment and remember it because we want to feel this again a couple more times. Enjoy the win tonight and let’s get back to business in a few days when we practice before heading off to Manehattan for game two. We fought hard and we never gave up! We believed in each other and we drew strength from that belief. Everyone did their part tonight and it was amazing. Good work, enjoy tonight, and we’ll get back to business soon to FINISH OFF THE RANGERS!”
“Yeah!” responded the others.
Twilight and friends’ first ever playoff game could not have ended any better. They endured a sluggish start and overcame an early deficit to send the crowd home happy. Even though the first battle was won, the war was yet to be over. The Golden Leafs will have to refocus and prepare once again to hopefully deliver the killshot to Manehattan’s season. Home ice was defended as winning on the road will prove to be difficult. It is up to Twilight and friends to press onward, using their friendship and teamwork to ascend to the next round.
To Be Continued
---
Three stars from Manehattan @ Ponyville
* Rainbow Dash (PGL)
** Rarity (PGL)
*** The Great and Powerful Trixie (MHN)
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
---
CANTERLOT 4, Fillydelphia 1 (Canterlot leads 1-0)
EHL Playoffs
---
(3) Canterlot vs. (6) Fillydelphia
(CTL leads 1-0)
Game 1: CANTERLOT 4, Fillydelphia 1
Game 2: @ Fillydelphia
Game 3 (if nec.): @ Canterlot
(4) Ponyville vs. (5) Manehattan
(PGL leads 1-0)
Game 1: PONYVILLE 3, Manehattan 2 (OT)
Game 2: @ Manehattan
Game 3 (if nec.): @ Ponyville
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XFizzle
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1005
| 15 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-09-29T13:28:23+00:00
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2011-09-29T13:28:23+00:00
| 3,031 |
Equestria Hockey League Part XIV – Quarterfinals: Game 2
by XFizzle
“Come onnnn! Where is it? I scheduled us to leave at four! It’s already going on five!” shouted an exasperated Twilight Sparkle. In front of their mountain of hockey bags, the Ponyville Golden Leafs stood waiting for their carriage to Manehattan. Twilight nervously paced about while each of her friends followed her with their eyes.
“Don’t pace yourself too hard, dear. You don’t want to get tired before the game, do you? Come stand here and relax,” said Rarity as she shooed away Applejack to make room.
Applejack shot Rarity a quick, stern look before moving over. “Rarity’s right, Twi. We need to conserve all the energy we can if we wanna be sharp for tonight. Energy savin’ is mighty important, ain’t it big brother?”
“Eeyup. That’s the truth alright.”
Twilight stopped her pacing but instead directed her nervousness into rapidly tapping her hoof. “But if we’re late for the game, they might make us forfeit! I don’t want to give Trixie and the Rangers the satisfaction of a free win!”
“You got that right. If Manehattan wants to win, they’re going to have to go through us!” exclaimed Rainbow as she flew up into the air.
Pinkie hopped over to Twilight and gave her a pat on the back. “How about we sing a song while we wait? I love waiting songs! I’ll start. One hundred bottles of soda on the wall! One hundred bottles of soda! Take one down, pass it around…”
As the others rolled their eyes at Pinkie, Fluttershy noticed a large carriage rolling toward them. “Look everyone. It’s here.”
The stretch carriage slowly inched its way up to the Golden Leafs. When the four driver stallions were in sight, Twilight began to ramble off her frustrations. “I’m sorry but I requested for this carriage to be here at four. What took so long?!”
Maxie, the leader of the drivers, answered the ranting Twilight. “We’re awfully sorry, ma’am. There was a snow bank blocking the major road into town here. We’ll do our best to get you all to Manehattan as fast as we can.”
The co-leader, Crossfade, unhooked himself from his harness to pack away the Golden Leafs’ equipment. When the Golden Leafs were all settled into the carriage, Maxie and Crossfade took their driving hats off to reveal unicorn horns. Their horns began to glow and were emitting a message.
“Calling Trixie and Scratch. Come in Trixie and Scratch. The leafs are in the mulcher. I repeat, the leafs are in the mulcher.”
With the message sent, Maxie and Crossfade put their hats back on and signaled for their team to start pulling.
---
The Golden Leafs discussed strategy and reviewed their game one performance at length, with no one paying attention to the amount of time it was taking to arrive in Manehattan. Applejack happened to glance out the window to see a large clock tower and saw it was now 7:00.
“Uh, Twilight. What time is our game supposed ta be?”
“It starts at seven thirty, so we should be in the locker room at seven. Why?”
“Uh, because it’s already seven.”
Twilight jolted out of her seat. “IT’S ALREADY SEVEN?!?” She then furiously tapped on the glass directly behind the drivers. One of the back drivers opened it, not expecting the anger that was about to emerge.
“EXCUSE ME! We needed to be at Maredison Square Garden AT SEVEN! Are we even in Manehattan?”
Maxie turned his neck around to answer. “Where did you say you needed to be?”
“MAREDISON SQUARE GARDEN!”
Maxie looked over to Crossfade who gave a small nod and grin. “Oh, we thought you meant Maredison CIRCLE Garden. Our apologies.”
Even more infuriated, Twilight used her magic to bring the whole carriage to a screeching halt. She told everyone to jump out and to grab their bags. Once the whole team was out, Twilight released the drivers from her magical hold.
“We’ll walk there ourselves! Don’t expect to get paid for this either!”
Twilight put Spike and their bags on her back and led the charge into Manehattan as the Golden Leafs quickly followed behind. With the Golden Leafs galloping off into the distance, Maxie and Crossfade sparked their horns back up to alert their sisters.
“Trixie and Scratch, Trixie and Scratch. The Leafs are on their way to the arena. We tried to hold them as long as we could but the purple one used her magic to stop us. Abort mission, abort mission. Raking time is now.”
---
With a passing clock reading 7:25, the Golden Leafs had to pick up their gallop in order to make it to the arena on time. Manehattanites on the street jumped and dove out of the Golden Leafs’ way as they were quickly closing in on their destination. Taking one last turn, Maredison Square Garden loomed ahead, giving Twilight and friends an adrenaline-filled kick. Arena workers scrambled to open up the doors to let the Golden Leafs in. Twilight shouted to the team to go to the locker room while she finds the EHL officials. Still galloping down the hallway, Twilight saw another clock reading 7:29. The bright lights of the rink surface glowed ahead and she could hear the sounds of Rangers’ fans growing louder. The Rangers were already done with their introductions and were now standing near center ice hoping for a forfeit. Suddenly, Twilight leaped out onto the ice and slid all the way to the head referee who was standing near the penalty boxes. Rangers fans gasped and began booing when they saw Twilight dive out. Now at the referee’s hooves, Twilight quickly stood up and faced him.
“We’re here! Ponyville’s here! We don’t need to forfeit!”
By this time, Trixie’s face was bright red and she steamed on over to Twilight and the ref.
“NO! They were late! That should make us the winners!”
The referee looked at Twilight and then at Trixie. Without saying a word, he skated out to center ice and faced the crowd for an announcement.
“This game will be played as scheduled. Ponyville will be given five minutes to prepare.”
An immense outpour of boos and jeers flowed down toward the ice as Twilight scampered off toward the locker room with a giant look of relief on her face. Trixie stomped her hooves and shouted at Vinyl Scratch for their unsuccessful plan.
---
Twilight burst into the locker room panting and heaving, exhaustingly falling down to the floor with a thud. The others were all dressed and ready to go so they quickly attended to their captain. Rainbow brought over a bottle of water while Rarity helped unpack Twilight’s bag. Twilight caught her breath and tried to calmly put her equipment on.
“We don’t have much time…the referee only gave us…five minutes. What about…the pre-game talk?”
“Already taken care of!” said Rainbow proudly.
Rarity pointed her hoof at Rainbow. “Yes, and it was much louder than the usual ones. I do believe my ears are still ringing after Rainbow’s rousing speech.”
When Twilight put on her last skate, the warning horn roared throughout the arena. The Golden Leafs trotted out and hit the rink to a chorus of boos from the impatient Rangers fan base. The Golden Leafs skated around their end for a bit, looking a bit worn down and slow. Spike, Big Mac, and Sweetie Belle took their places at the bench while both teams set up for the opening faceoff. After the usual goalie check, the referee dropped the puck on game two.
---
The Rangers came out fast and physical right off the opening draw while the Golden Leafs struggled to find their legs early. Manehattan was able to keep the puck inside the Ponyville zone for a good minute, putting four shots on Pinkie. One tactic used by the Rangers was quite unusual and frustrating for Twilight’s crew. Replaced at the point by Lyra, Trixie parked herself in the crease and screened Pinkie face to face. Pinkie had to shift over and stretch around to see the play while Trixie stared her dead in the eyes and ran her mouth with trash talk. Trixie then flailed her stick all over trying to distract Pinkie while her team tried to fire off shots. Luckily for the Leafs, the Rangers’ shots were wide.
Finally gaining control of the puck, Ponyville tried to generate offense but their movements were too slow. Manehattan stole the puck and came back down the ice. Trixie reclaimed her spot in front of Pinkie and was back to her annoying tactic. Seeing Pinkie distressed, Rainbow flew over to bulldoze Trixie to the ice. Rainbow let out a chuckle as she passed but the referee had flung his hoof into the air. The whistle tweeted as soon as Ponyville touched the puck, drawing a cheer from the crowd.
“Ponyville, number 20, two minutes for interference.”
Rainbow begrudgingly entered the box with Rangers’ fans pounding the glass around her for attention. With the Leafs on the early penalty kill, Big Mac substituted in for Rarity. The faceoff was to the right of Pinkie and Big Mac matched up with Octavia. Octavia won the draw and kicked it back to Bon Bon. The Rangers set up their power play formation while the Leafs did the same. Undeterred from the crushing hit, Trixie was back in front of Pinkie. Twilight skated up to Trixie and tried pushing her out of the way. Bon Bon had the puck at the left point while Twilight and Trixie battled in the crease. Bon Bon saw Lyra open in the corner and passed it off. When Lyra received the puck, Bon Bon broke for the front of the net for a give-and-go. Big Mac went after Lyra, prompting her to pass back to the streaking Bon Bon. On the other side of Pinkie, Octavia parked herself on the backdoor, out of Fluttershy’s sight. When Bon Bon received the puck, Twilight left Trixie and Fluttershy moved over to stop her. Seeing Octavia wide open, Bon Bon passed to her. Pinkie couldn’t see the pass and was late shifting over while losing her stick. Octavia settled the bouncy pass as Pinkie quickly skated out of the net to cut her path off. With skillful puck handling, Octavia shimmied around Pinkie’s kicked out pad and slipped the puck in, giving Manehattan an early 1-0 lead. The crowd cheered with the goal light spinning and the goal horn blasting.
”Manehattan POWER PLAY GOOOOAL, scored by number 14, OCTAAAAVIAAA! Assisted by number 10, LYRAAAA! And number 20, BON BONNN!”
Rainbow slammed her stick on the door before exiting the penalty box. Trixie skated by to let out a laugh to get on Rainbow’s nerves some more. Play resumed with Rarity back on the ice for Big Macintosh. Rainbow focused on winning the faceoff and got it, knocking it to Fluttershy. Fluttershy passed up to Applejack who dumped it into the corner for Rainbow to chase down. Trixie got to the puck and immediately whipped it around the boards before Rainbow could hit her again. Bon Bon got caught in the opposite corner by Rarity who was working hard to get the puck. With a lucky poke, Rarity won the puck and passed back to Twilight at the blue line. Before Lyra could close in on her, Twilight whipped the puck over to Fluttershy. Applejack crashed the top of the crease and was pushing and shoving away Bon Bon right on top of Dr. Whooves. Since Octavia was coming in quickly with pressure, Fluttershy frantically fired toward the net. Applejack got an extra shove off Bon Bon before moving over to put her stick on the flying puck. The puck nicked the stick blade and bounced in right through Dr. Whooves’ five-hole. The goal light illuminated and a groan rang out from the crowd. Applejack happily pointed her skate at Fluttershy before coming in for a celebratory hug.
”Ponyville goal, scored by number 88, Applejack. Assisted by number 0, Fluttershy, and number 42, Twilight Sparkle.”
The Golden Leafs finished their celebration and set back up for the faceoff. Three minutes were left in the period as the tempered crowd quietly watched along. The next two minutes featured unproductive back-and-forth play since both teams had difficulty generating offense. With the final minute of the period counting down, the Rangers dumped the puck into the Ponyville end. Vinyl Scratch retrieved the puck with Twilight and Rarity coming in to double team her. Scratch kept her legs moving and peeled back toward the blue line. Once again, Octavia skated up behind Fluttershy and was on the doorstep. Scratch zinged a backhanded pass right through Rainbow’s legs to Octavia who one-timed the puck through Pinkie’s five-hole. The arena jumped with a cheer as the Rangers celebrated in the corner for another goal.
”GOOOOOAAAALLL! Her second of the night, scored by number 14, OCTAAAAVIAAA! Assisted by number 66, VINYL SCRAAATCH!”
Fluttershy pouted in disappointment for having allowed two goals behind her. Twilight came over to pat her on the back for reassurance. The final thirty seconds of the period ran out with no more notable plays. The Rangers were given a rousing ovation as both teams went off for the intermission.
---
In the locker room, the Leafs were not feeling terribly down, but rather annoyed with Trixie’s antics in the first period.
“Who does that stinkin’ unicorn think she is waving her stick all over like that? I oughta knock her over again!” said Rainbow.
Twilight, Rarity, and Sweetie Belle gave Rainbow an offended glare before Twilight responded. “But we can’t afford for you to get another penalty. We have to be more forceful with Trixie but without crossing the line. Fluttershy and I can’t do it or else we’ll be blocking Pinkie’s view even worse. Pinkie, you’re going to have to knock Trixie away yourself. The referees are more forgiving toward goalies who protect their crease.”
“But Twilight, I just can’t knock Trixie down. That’s what a meanie would do!”
Twilight paused to think of an explanation that would make Pinkie more accepting to the idea. “Well, pretend that you and Trixie are playing a game of tag. Whenever she’s in the crease, you’re it. When you push her out the crease, then she’s it. Sound fun?”
“Okie dokie, Twilight!”
“Alright, let’s work on tightening up our passes and give Rainbow the puck more. I noticed we were looking pretty slow that period but Rainbow glided around with no problem. We’re not out of this yet! Let’s work on tying this up, okay? Hooves in, team on three.”
“One…two…three…TEAM!”
---
Both teams returned to the ice to cheers although they were mainly directed toward the Rangers. A loud “Here we go, Rangers, here we go!” chant swirled around the crowd as the second period faceoff was ready to drop. Rainbow won the faceoff and the Leafs tried their first attempt at tying the game up. Sticking with the strategy, Applejack passed the puck to Rainbow who was behind the net. Trixie and Bon Bon closed in to apply pressure, leaving Rainbow nowhere to turn. Rainbow tried to pass off to either wing but the play was sniffed out by Octavia, intercepting the pass.
Back the other way came the Rangers with a full head of steam. The Leafs’ defense held steady and prevented an odd-pony rush. The puck flew around and pinballed all over the Ponyville end. The Leafs won the possession battle and were coming back the other way. Rainbow controlled the puck and tried to dance her way through the Manehattan defense. Rainbow was able to get to the crease before Dr. Whooves placed a timely poke check to knock the puck away. Trixie picked up the loose puck and passed up to Octavia who was now entering the Ponyville end again. Octavia was going to wait for her team to catch up but Twilight moved up to challenge her. Octavia was forced to fire the puck around the boards. Fluttershy slowly skated to the boards to pick up the puck but was bowled over by a rumbling Vinyl Scratch. Trixie motored from the center ice to the top of the crease. Being face to face with Trixie once more, Pinkie remembered Twilight’s idea. With the play going on in the zone, Pinkie gave Trixie a hard, yet playful push. Trixie growled and came back for more. Pinkie and Trixie engaged in a shoving match while Octavia received a pass from Bon Bon down in the corner. With Pinkie distracted, Octavia whipped a shot from a sharp angle. The puck deflected off Pinkie’s skate and into the net for the hat trick goal. Pinkie looked behind her in disbelief as hats flew onto the ice during the Rangers celebration.
”Manehattan HAT TRICK GOOOAAAALLLL! Scored by number 14, OCTAAAAVIAAA! Assisted by number 20, BON BONNN!”
Twilight rushed over to the referee to voice her displeasure.
“Didn’t you see Trixie pushing our goalie around? Shouldn’t that be interference?!?”
“Look Sparkle, your goalie initiated the contact. It’s a clean play as far as I’m concerned.”
“B-but”
“Move along, the issue is done.”
Twilight let out an annoyed grunt as she skated back toward her team. They gathered around her to find out what the referee said and were upset with the outcome. The referee called for the next faceoff and both teams were set. Rainbow won the draw and the Leafs tried once more to fight back with a goal. Rangers fans were getting rowdy as Ponyville tried to work on offense. The Leafs were only able to get off two shots, both of which were saved easily.
The Rangers came back down the ice and had a stranglehold on possession for the entirety of the period. The Rangers racked up eight more shots in three minutes to Ponyville’s one. Ponyville had great difficulty snatching the puck away and then holding it on offense. At the end of the second period, the Rangers’ faithful were amped up and cheering their team off the ice. Twilight’s crew was visibly frustrated with their lack of production as they slowly drifted off the ice toward their locker room.
---
The Golden Leafs needed to readjust their strategy if they wanted to climb out of their 3-1 hole. In the locker room, each pony quietly vented their frustrations by roughly re-taping their sticks and stomping about the room. Twilight stood up and faced her team.
“We’re letting the Rangers get in our heads tonight. Between Trixie’s screening and Octavia putting in goals from every angle, we have to fight back. It’s my fault for not suggesting this earlier but let’s push these ponies around. Let’s show them we’re not afraid of them. We need to get in their faces and make them shake in their skates when we come at them. Time to get down and dirty! Let’s get ‘em!”
“Darn tootin’! No holdin’ back now!” shouted Applejack.
Rarity put the finishing touches on her stick tape. “I’ll get down, but not dirty. A classy unicorn such as myself would never defile myself with filth. I prefer to rattle some heads with the cleanest of hits!”
“Whatever works!” replied Rainbow.
“Let’s do it!” squeaked Fluttershy.
And with that, the Golden Leafs trotted out of their locker room and back out onto the ice for the final frame.
---
The third and final period was about to get underway with both squads gallivanting about the ice. Maredison Square Garden was electric over the Rangers’ 3-1 lead heading into the last ten minutes. Music and cheers filled the air as the puck dropped to continue play.
Rainbow won the draw and the Leafs entered the Manehattan zone. After a couple passes and some very physical scrums along the boards, the Leafs were able to fire off a couple shots on Dr. Whooves but to no avail. Manehattan had the puck and tried moving up the ice but their progress was impeded by the Golden Leafs’ hitting. When the Rangers finally entered the Ponyville zone, Trixie dumped the puck into the right corner. Fluttershy and Vinyl Scratch scrapped for the puck but neither were budging. Applejack came in to scrap as well and repeatedly nudged Scratch in the back. After zero progress with the puck was being shown, the referee blew the whistle to stop play. Scratch turned around and pushed Applejack back, drawing Applejack’s ire. Soon after, they were tangling up, drawing an “Oooooooh” from the crowd. A referee came over to break them up as both the Leafs and Rangers came in to keep the other in check. No penalties were handed out and the faceoff moved to Pinkie’s left.
Octavia won the faceoff to Trixie who pulled the puck back to the blue line. Octavia skated behind the net to draw Rainbow away from the middle. Trixie passed to Scratch at the right wing boards who had a small amount of time before Applejack came in with a hit. Octavia saw Scratch’s predicament and quickly sprinted to the center of the zone. Before Applejack flew in with a monster hit, Scratch flung the puck to Octavia. She now had a wide open lane to Pinkie. Octavia snapped a shot right over Pinkie’s blocker and into the top left corner for her fourth goal of the night. The crowd jumped to their hooves with raucous cheer as Octavia was smothered by her teammates. Rainbow slammed her stick on the ice in anger because she was outhustled.
”Manehattan GOOOALLL! Her FOURTH of the evening, number 14, OCTAAAAVIAAAA! Assisted by number 66, VINYL SCRAAATCH! And number 4, THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIIIIXIEEEE!”
Rainbow growled the entire time before the next faceoff. When the puck dropped, Rainbow jumped on top of Octavia and held her down to the ice to get the puck. The puck stayed at center ice as all the Leafs and Rangers converged upon it. With the play going nowhere, the referee blew the whistle. Octavia powered out of Rainbow’s hold and they tussled until the ref could pull them apart. The Rangers’ lead plus the playoff atmosphere plus the Leafs’ desperation were adding up to a very chippy affair. Once again no penalties were called and the faceoff remained at center ice. South of the center dot, Lyra and Rarity were nudging each other for position before the puck drop. Lyra jabbed the butt end of her stick into Rarity’s chest while Rarity slashed Lyra’s legs with her stick. The ref looked up to see the small scrum and skated over to break them apart. The puck finally dropped and the Golden Leafs had control.
Twilight got the puck and carried it into the zone herself, looking for a quick shot. When all the shooting lanes were closed up, Trixie stepped out of position to charge at Twilight. As soon as Twilight let go of the puck, Trixie landed a huge check on her. Twilight fell to the ice with Trixie still looming over her with the most arrogant of grins on her face. Even though the play was already back in the Ponyville end, Twilight jumped up and pushed Trixie to the ice. Trixie landed with a thud but quickly sprung back up to her hooves. The play was blown dead as a referee sprinted over to break up this latest skirmish. Trixie and Twilight jabbed each other with their sticks and horns before they were finally separated. Having enough of these scrums, the referee warned both sides.
“If this nonsense goes on any longer, I’m going to give out penalties. Tell your teams to watch themselves.”
Trixie and Twilight returned to their squads but didn’t relay the message. Two minutes were all that were remaining in game two. With play back on, the Leafs and Rangers kept up their hitting between the whistles, each team trying to gain a physical edge over the other. Since the game was quickly getting out of hand in terms of the score, the Leafs and Rangers turned their attention into sending a message for game three.
Maredison Square Garden was shaking from the eruption of cheers by the Manehattan crowd. The faceoff was to Pinkie’s left as the crowd anxiously waited for the final seconds to tick by. Octavia won the draw back to Bon Bon who ripped off a final shot. Pinkie gloved the save as the final horn rang out. Octavia didn’t get the memo because she crashed the net and toppled over Pinkie. Immediately, Rainbow jumped over Octavia’s back to protect her goaltender. Like a short fuse on a stick of dynamite, the Golden Leafs’ crease rapidly turned into a mosh pit of Rangers and Leafs pulling and pushing each other. With the arena blowing up with yells and cheers, some parting shots and nasty words were exchanged before the officials were finally able to restore order.
Twilight’s crew angrily marched off the ice as the Rangers skated down to their goalie to celebrate the crucial game two victory. Octavia was given an explosive ovation as she stepped out of the rink along with her teammates.
---
The Golden Leafs’ locker room was heated and tense. The starters sneered and voiced their not-so-nice opinions of the Rangers. After they were all undressed and clean, Twilight stood in front of the team.
“As captain, I will take full responsibility for the loss tonight. It was my fault we didn’t get here on time and that caused us to start off slow. I’ll be the first to admit I didn’t play my best game tonight. I promise that I will have us ready for game three. I’ll do my best to make sure we still have a season after game three.”
Applejack stood up to comment. “No, Twi. I’ll take some blame too. I didn’t play my best tonight either.”
“Count me in too. We all let the Rangers get in our heads. They got in my head the worst,” said Rainbow.
Rarity was next to join in. “I agree, I did not play up to my fabulous caliber tonight. I shall not let it happen again.”
“Um, I could’ve done better too. I let Octavia get two goals right behind me. I’m sorry,” said Fluttershy softly.
“Me too, girls. We’re all in this together! We can win this!” squealed Pinkie.
Big Macintosh stepped up. “Eeyup, keep workin’ together and this team can go far.”
“Yeah, you guys are too talented and tough to let a lame team like the Rangers get the best of you!” said Spike.
“With teamwork and friendship, there’s nothing we can’t do!” squeaked Sweetie Belle.
Twilight had a huge smile on her face from the unity being shown before her. “It’s settled! We’ll work together and we’ll end the Rangers’ season back at home!”
Applejack walked up to Twilight and shouted to the team, “Hooves in, team on three everypony!”
“One…two…three…TEAM!”
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars of Ponyville @ Manehattan
* Octavia (MHN)
** Doctor Whooves (MHN)
*** Bon Bon (MHN)
Other Scores Around the EHL (Home Team in CAPS)
---
Canterlot 4, FILLYDELPHIA 2 (Canterlot wins series 2-0)
EHL Playoff Schedule
---
Quarterfinals
(4)Ponyville vs. (5) Manehattan
(Series tied 1-1)
Game 1: PONYVILLE 3, Manehattan 2 (OT)
Game 2: MANEHATTAN 4, Ponyville 1
Game 3: @ Ponyville
(3) Canterlot vs. (6) Fillydelphia
(Canterlot wins 2-0)
Game 1: CANTERLOT 4, Fillydelphia 1
Game 2: Canterlot 4, FILLYDELPHIA 2
Semifinals
(1) Cloudsdale vs. (4)Ponyville/(5)Manehattan
(Series tied 0-0)
Game 1: @ Cloudsdale
Game 2: @ Ponyville/Manehattan
Game 3 (if nec.): @ Cloudsdale
(2) Appleloosa vs. (3) Canterlot
(Series tied 0-0)
Game 1: @ Appleloosa
Game 2: @ Canterlot
Game 3 (if nec.): @ Appleloosa
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XFizzle
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1005
| 16 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-10-06T00:48:04+00:00
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2011-10-06T00:48:04+00:00
| 2,391 |
Equestria Hockey League Part XV – Quarterfinals: Game 3
by XFizzle
On the eve of the most important game of their young careers, Twilight Sparkle and the Ponyville Golden Leafs were putting the finishing touches on what could potentially be their last practice. The main objective was to pound the Rangers with physicality and to stifle them with tight defense. Toward the end of practice, Rarity began to feel a throbbing pain in her hooves. She skated off to the side boards and plopped herself down to take her front skates off. Concerned, Twilight rushed over to see what was wrong.
“What’s wrong, Rarity? Are you hurt?”
“Oh Twilight, I shouldn’t have done it. I thought I was going to be okay! I had no idea it would come back to haunt me so!”
Twilight was greatly confused. “Just what are you talking about?”
“Well I received an extremely important order for twenty hockey jersey dresses. I would have declined but the money was just too good to turn down. The dresses were very intricate and they put my poor hooves through torture! I hoped that my hooves would recover in the morning but they were still sore much to my dismay. Oh Twilight, I’m ever so sorry! And in excruciating pain, but still sorry!”
By this time, the rest of the team had skated over to listen to Rarity’s plight. Rainbow was not enthused with Rarity’s decision. “What?!? You KNEW we had a very important game coming up! What were you thinki-“
Applejack clunked Rainbow on the helmet to get her to hush up. Rarity’s face flushed with guilt before she lit up with an idea. “I know just the thing that will fix this problem. Why not let Big Macintosh start in my place? He’s been next to unstoppable when he’s on the ice. I am perfectly willing to sit this next game out for us to have the best chance at winning.”
“Are you sure you want to do that, Rarity? You’ve played every game so far and this could be our last game this year.”
Rarity hesitantly looked at her bruised hooves and then up at her friends. “Yes, Twilight. I will do whatever is best for the team. If that means I must sit out, then sit out I shall.”
Twilight then turned to Big Macintosh. “Do you feel you can take over for Rarity?”
In his steely cool demeanor, Big Macintosh let out a snort and nodded. “Yes ma’am. I’m ready. Sure as sugar.”
“Then it’s settled. Big Macintosh will fill in for Rarity. Now we can really bring the pain to the Rangers!”
While the Golden Leafs congratulated Big Macintosh on his promotion, Twilight used her magic to bring out bandages and she wrapped Rarity’s hooves. With practice over, the Golden Leafs retreated into the locker room to freshen up and to go about the rest of their day.
---
Later in the evening, the Golden Leafs were requested to arrive at Sugarcube Corner for a pep rally of sorts hosted by their fan club. When Twilight and friends entered the bakery, they were enthusiastically greeted by forty of their biggest fans. The Golden Leafs were treated like celebrities as everyone wanted either a picture with them or an autograph. There were Golden Leafs cakes and cupcakes, royal blue and gold streamers and balloons, and a giant poster decorated and signed by every member of the Leafs’ fan club. Twilight and company were overwhelmed and deeply moved by this display of fandom. Near the end of the event, the Golden Leafs all sat at the front of the room like a panel. Unbeknownst to them, they were about to learn about how much they’ve impacted their fair town.
The fan club president stood in front of the panel and addressed the team. “We are very grateful that you could enjoy this wonderful evening with us tonight. We love the Golden Leafs and we appreciate all the hard work and effort you have displayed over the long season. Before you go into battle tomorrow night to keep the season alive, we have a few fan club members here who want to share something with you.”
The Golden Leafs looked at each other and shrugged as a stout, older stallion made his way toward them. He was wearing a “Dash #20” jersey and took his hat off to talk to the team.
“Hello team. My name is Gerry and I just wanted to tell you how much the Golden Leafs have given me the motivation to wake up every morning. I have been unemployed for several months now with no light at the end of the tunnel. Every day I would sink lower into debt with numerous bills and rent payments. I almost lost everything but I kept fighting on because you guys keep fighting. I’ve watched every one of your games and the way you ponies play bring a smile to my face. Whether it’s Rainbow’s puck skills, Applejack’s big checks, or Pinkie’s timely saves, I have been proud to call myself a Golden Leafs fan. Those Fillydelphia games changed my life when you came back from that big score to win at the buzzer. When I saw you give everything you had to get back and win that game, it sparked something within me. I stopped feeling sorry for myself and I went out to find work.”
The stallion’s voice began to crack and tears were starting to well up in his eye. “Now, I am proud to stand before you all tonight and say that I’ve been working for a month now and I am pulling myself out of the hole. I saw that you never give up so I never give up. Thank you for inspiring my life and go Leafs.”
Applause filled the room as a few of the girls were about to cry themselves from the story. Rainbow called Gerry back up to the table and signed her name right on the front of his jersey for him. More applause rang out as a teenage colt was next to share his feelings.
“WOOOOOO!! Golden Leafs rule! You guys kick flank! Destroy the Rangers WOOOOO!!”
Laughter and applause cropped back up as the colt ran up to Applejack for a hoof bump. Applejack stood up and happily obliged, making the colt squeal on the way back to his seat.
Next, a mother and her daughter stepped up to the Golden Leafs. The filly was shy but her mother pushed her forward to talk. “I want to thank you for being good role models and because you are girls who play hockey tough, I started to play hockey myself. I’m not very good but someday I hope to be a Golden Leaf too.”
A loud “Awwww” rang out along with applause as the filly trotted up toward the team. The Golden Leafs walked around the table to take a group picture with the young girl and all gave her a hug.
Seeing that the night was getting late, Twilight took center stage and stood before the large gathering. Moved by the fans’ care and support, Twilight’s voice quivered as she addressed the club. “Thank you all for coming and for supporting us not only tonight but over the entire season. We didn’t know that we meant so much to all of you. Tonight was a very touching and memorable experience that we will always remember and treasure. We will do our very best tomorrow night to take care of business. We will be a team you can be proud of. Thank you again and goodnight!”
Twilight and the team waved goodbye as they left. The Leafs fan club raucously pounded their hooves on the tables to a “Go Leafs Go!” chant. The Golden Leafs retired to bed early with their souls illuminated by the inspiring stories they heard throughout the night. Twilight and her crew increased their focus and determination so that they would not disappoint their resilient fans.
---
After a full night of sleep, dawn cracked on game day; the day where the Ponyville Golden Leafs could either extend their season or could have their dreams come to a crashing end to an emerging bitter rival. In order to keep everyone calm and loose, Twilight arranged for the team to spend the afternoon and watch movies at the treehouse. A couple of side-splitting comedies later, the time had come for the gang to march down to their battlefield where they would close out their war. The fanfare leading to the arena began as soon as Twilight’s door. Forming a path on each side, Ponyvillians lined the streets leading to Ponyville Pond. When Twilight and friends stepped out, a giant swell of applause began at the start of the line. The applause followed the Golden Leafs as they marched toward the arena. Twilight and friends held their heads high and were beaming with pride as they processed through the sea of rabid fans. When Ponyville Pond drew closer, the applause intensified into cheering and hollering. The Golden Leafs all turned around to give a final parting wave to their loyal fans before entering the arena.
---
The Golden Leafs donned their armor with quiet focus, turning the locker room into a peaceful sanctuary. With plenty of time remaining before hitting the ice, a colt wearing headphones and a battery pack trotted into the room. The colt had a press credential in his mouth that read “EqSPN”. Twilight was about to escort the young man out before he yelled back toward the hallway.
“Yeah I found her! We need her now?? Alright, I’ll grab her! Hey you’re Twilight Sparkle right?”
Twilight snarled back, “Yes. What do you want? My team is trying to prepare for a very crucial game tonig-“
“Good, come with me, you’re on the air in two.”
Twilight’s irritation quickly gave way to bewilderment as she was pushed toward the hallway. Bright lights and cameras crowded around Twilight as she tried to make sense of what was happening. When she snapped out of her small daze, she turned around and smacked into a tower of fur. Shaking her head, Twilight looked up and saw a giant grin staring back down at her. The furry tower was a bear, an older bear with a head of slicked back grey hair. He was holding a microphone and put his arm around Twilight.
“Heya kid! Ready for your first big interview?”
“Uhh, I guess so. No offense, but who are you?”
The production colt from earlier clopped his hooves together to get their attention. He pointed to the cameras and mouthed the words “On air in four…three…two…”
All cameras fixated upon Twilight and a red light illuminated on the center camera to indicate it was rolling.
“Hello hockey fans, I’m Beary Melrose and I am here with Ponyville Golden Leafs captain Twilight Sparkle. So captain, what does your team need to do tonight to put this series away?”
Twilight stammered and began to sweat. “Uhh, we need to come out physical and knock Manehattan off the puck. If we can hit them around, we feel we can control the game.”
“A few days ago in practice, Rarity went down with some hoof-related injuries. Any update on her status tonight?”
“Uhh, Rarity elected to give up her starting role to Big Macintosh for tonight.”
“How do you feel he will fit in with your lineup and what sort of production are you looking for him to provide?”
Taking a giant gulp, Twilight continued with the interview. “I think he will fit in just fine. He’s a hitter and he’s solid all around. We’re looking for him to provide us with some strong play and maybe generate some offense while staying sharp on the penalty kill.”
“Finally, what has this season meant for not only your team but for this city?”
“For the team, this season has been magical. We’re just a bunch of friends who were given a team out of the blue and I feel we’ve done a job well done. Sure we’ve had our ups and downs but in the end, it’s all about friendship and teamwork. As for the city, Ponyville is such a great place to represent. The fans are resilient, loyal, and supportive. Just the other night we were invited to a pep rally and everyone in attendance had an inspiring story to tell about how we’ve lifted their spirits. It’s for them that we’re going to come out here and fight tonight.”
“Thank you, captain. Good luck out there tonight.”
“Thanks, Beary.”
Twilight quickly scampered back to the locker room as Beary wrapped up the segment. “That was Golden Leafs captain Twilight Sparkle who will shortly lead her team to the ice for a game three showdown. Now back to tonight’s commentators, Gary Horne and Filly Clement. Guys?”
---
Back from her interview, Twilight stood at the front of the room and was ready to deliver what could possibly be her last pre-game speech. Each of her teammates leaned in to listen intently.
“Tonight, there’s no turning back. We are standing at the edge of the cliff. Are we going to let the Rangers push us off? Or are we going to jump back and reclaim our ground? You know, history spoke of a great explorer stallion. When he and his crew reached shore on a new, foreign land, he told his men ‘queme los barcos.’ In their language at that time, he said ‘burn the boats’. They gave themselves no way out. There was going to be no looking back no matter what danger they encountered be it from the wildlife or the inhabitants. That is going to be us tonight. We are going to ‘burn the boats’ because we will forcibly take what’s ours. I said before game one that this was going to be a war. Well tonight, the war will be finished. When the smoke clears, we WILL be the last ones standing. Are we ready to finish this fight?”
“Yeah!”
Twilight stomped both front hooves down on the floor hard. “I SAID ARE WE READY TO FINISH THIS FIGHT?!?”
“YEAH!!” yelled the Golden Leafs as they jumped from their stalls.
“Bring it in. We will fight as a team. We will sweat as a team. We will bleed as a team. We will WIN! AS! A! TEAM! Team on three!”
“One…two…three…TEAM!”
---
Ponyville Pond buzzed and whirred like a well-oiled machine. The tension palpable, the atmosphere electric. Blanketing the seats was another “Blue Out” with each Golden Leafs fan pumping gold-colored pom-poms into the air as the clock ticked down to game time. When the buzzer sounded to bring the teams out onto the ice, the first of many cheering eruptions rang out. Manehattan came out first for introductions and were voraciously jeered and booed. The Rangers proceeded to zip around their end with great quickness and focus. For Ponyville’s introductions, the arena was so loud that fillies and mares had to cover their ears. The local heroes were given a fitting welcome from their dedicated fans.
With the lights back up, the arena rocking, and both teams staring a hole through each other, the deciding game was ready to commence. Octavia and Rainbow bumped helmets while awaiting the referee’s goalie check. With the clack of the puck on the ice, the elimination game began.
---
Octavia and Rainbow clashed, kicking and poking at the puck before it finally squirted out toward Manehattan. Hitting immediately came into play as Applejack plowed over Bon Bon after she had passed off to Vinyl Scratch. Vinyl Scratch was rocked herself by an aggressive Fluttershy at the blue line. Rainbow swooped by to take the puck through the neutral zone where she then was flattened by Lyra who was cutting through the center. The crowd’s cheers popped louder with each check as Manehattan carried the puck into the Ponyville zone. Lyra dumped the puck into the right corner for Scratch. Fluttershy shoved Scratch into the boards as they tussled for the puck. Octavia came in along with Applejack to claim the puck. Applejack got some shots in on Scratch while Octavia did the same to Fluttershy. The puck squirted out toward Octavia who was rammed into the glass by Big Macintosh. Big Mac grabbed the puck and skipped it ahead to Rainbow who tried to take it into the Manehattan zone by herself. Bon Bon and Trixie were back and sandwiched Rainbow down to the ice to stop her charge.
Two uninterrupted minutes had already melted off the clock as the Rangers controlled the puck back into the Leafs’ end. The Rangers moved quickly now as to avoid the Leafs’ crushing hits. Octavia had the puck behind the net and passed it to Lyra on the left boards before Twilight could pressure. Lyra was met by Big Mac who was forcibly imposing his will on the smaller and weaker Lyra. Lyra desperately flung the puck toward the center where it was intercepted by Rainbow. Before Rainbow could head up ice, Trixie closed in to steal the puck back. Scratch got herself open in the backdoor to receive Trixie’s pass. With a wide open net in front of her, Scratch flicked the puck on net. Pinkie dove to her left and stuck her stick out in hopes of making a save. The puck catches Pinkie’s stick blade and deflects up into the air, eliciting a giant roar from the fans. Fluttershy claimed the puck upon its landing and passed it to Applejack heading up ice.
The Golden Leafs brought the puck in and worked around the boards with the Rangers tightly defending them. Rainbow held the puck in the left corner, fending off Bon Bon. With Big Mac coming in to help, Rainbow kicked the puck to him. Big Mac barreled his way toward the middle but was double teamed. Mac saw Applejack open along the boards and passed to her. Scratch came in to challenge Applejack, leaving Fluttershy open at the point. Applejack shoved the puck to Fluttershy before absorbing a Scratch hit. Fluttershy saw an open lane to the net and fired. Rainbow crashed the crease with Bon Bon right on her. The puck glances off Bon Bon’s skate and slips right past the unsuspecting Dr. Whooves into the net. All of Ponyville Pond jumped to their hooves with a roar as the goal light shone like a beacon and the siren sounded.
”PONYVILLE GOOOOAAALLL!! Scored by number 0, FLUTTERSHYYY! Assisted by number 88, AAAAPPLEJAAACK! And number 8, BIIIIIG MAAAACINTOSH!”
The Golden Leafs finished up their celebration and headed for center ice for the faceoff. The Rangers had a meeting at their net before coming toward the center. The “Blue Out” was still buzzing and pumping their pom-poms as play resumed. Rainbow won the draw back to Twilight who fed it right back to Rainbow. Frustrated from the fluke goal, Bon Bon thrust her stick at Rainbow’s skates to get at the puck. Rainbow tumbled over and lost the puck, instantly prompting the referee to hold his hoof up and blow the whistle. The arena’s buzz ripened back into cheering with Bon Bon heading to the penalty box.
“Manehattan, number 20, two minutes for tripping.”
Twilight quickly ran down the power play strategy with her team before the referee called both teams for the faceoff. Octavia won the faceoff back to Trixie who dumped the puck down to Pinkie. Pinkie skated behind to grab the puck and to pass it to Twilight. Twilight tried passing the puck back into the Manehattan zone but it was too hot for Applejack to handle, ending up on Scratch’s stick. Scratch fired back down for Pinkie to retrieve again. This time Rainbow tried bringing the puck in. Rainbow broke right down the center hoping to draw the defense in to open up the perimeter for her teammates. With a well-timed poke, Octavia stole the puck from Rainbow and dumped the puck back down again. Precious seconds were slipping away from the Golden Leafs’ power play as they tried to establish some offense. This time, Big Mac brought the puck in and whipped the puck around the boards to Applejack. Big Mac parked himself in the crease to screen Dr. Whooves while the Leafs moved the puck around. Big Mac held steady as Trixie tried to push him away. Twilight ripped a shot from the point but it was blocked by a diving Lyra. Pinkie slapped her stick on the ice for the final seconds of the penalty before coming out to get the dumped puck.
”Manehattan returns to full strength.”
A “GO LEAFS GO” chant broke out as Applejack tried bringing the puck into the Rangers’ zone. Octavia and Scratch double teamed her and Octavia came away with it. Knowing Fluttershy was back, Twilight took a gamble and came up to head Octavia off. Twilight was able to steal the puck and she quickly shoved it forward to Rainbow who flew into the zone and slashed through the center. Instead of deking her way to the net, Rainbow caught the Rangers’ defense by surprise by performing a shoulder shake to freeze them and then firing off a slap shot. Dr. Whooves raised his glove hoof but was too slow. The puck clanged the back brace of the net and shot back out, lighting up the lamp and sounding the siren. With the arena exploding with more cheers, Rainbow drifted off to the corner to await her teammates to celebrate the goal.
”PONYVILLE GOOOAAALLL! Scored by number 20, RAAAAINBOW DAAAASH! Assisted by number 42, TWIIIILIGHT SPAAAARKLEEE!”
Dr. Whooves slammed his stick on the crossbar in frustration as the Rangers bent over to catch their breath. The Leafs finished up their celebration and were ready to resume play again. With a pivotal 2-0 lead in the elimination game, the Golden Leafs controlled the puck and let the first period run out. They were ushered off the ice to a standing ovation from their fans, clearly pleased with the first period effort. Twilight led her team back to the locker room to rest for the intermission.
---
The Golden Leafs were confident about their start but were not ready to let up. Twilight stressed for her team to double their effort and to push for more goals as no lead was safe until the clock reads 0:00. The intermission provided a good breather because fatigue was slowly creeping in from the Rangers’ hits. Mostly refreshed and ready for more, the Leafs stepped out for the second period.
---
The second period got off to a quick start with Manehattan applying full pressure in all areas of the rink. They blitzed on the forecheck, buzzed around the neutral zone, and rotated and maneuvered all over the offensive zone, giving Ponyville a fit and forcing them to give up the puck. When Ponyville did have the puck in the Rangers’ end, Rainbow fumbled the puck and had her pocket picked by Octavia. With a wide open rink on the way to Pinkie, Rainbow dove to poke the puck away. Rainbow’s stick caught Octavia and tripped her up. The referee’s hoof flew up and play stopped when the puck landed at Pinkie. Trixie rushed over to the referee to plead for a penalty shot but nothing doing.
“Ponyville, number 20, two minutes for tripping.”
The crowd perked up to cheer on the penalty kill unit. Twilight, Fluttershy, Applejack, and Big Mac gathered at the faceoff circle to discuss the next two minutes. The Rangers came up for the faceoff and play resumed. Octavia won the draw back to Bon Bon who shoveled it over to Trixie. Scratch and Lyra switched wings, cutting through the Leafs’ box and mixing the defense up. Now on the left boards, Scratch received the pass and bringing in both Twilight and Applejack to defend. Scratch quickly passed back to Trixie who already wound up for the one-timer. The puck jumped off Trixie’s stick and zoomed in toward the corner. Octavia skated by at just the right moment to screen Pinkie, allowing the puck to pound the net for the power play goal. A groan bellowed out as Trixie jumped toward the boards in celebration. The Rangers smothered her and they cut their deficit to 2-1.
”Manehattan goal, scored by number 4, Trixie, assisted by number 66, Vinyl Scratch, and number 20, Bon Bon.”
Rainbow smacked her stick upon exiting the penalty box. The arena atmosphere cooled down to a low murmur as play resumed. Rainbow dug in to rip the faceoff away from Octavia and handed it back to Twilight. Almost immediately, Big Mac fiercely smacked his stick on the ground calling for the puck. Twilight gave it up and Big Mac went to work. Using his amazing strength, Big Macintosh gritted his teeth and plowed right through the center of the Rangers’ zone. Bon Bon and Trixie closed on him but they could not force him off stride. Big Mac rumbled to the crease and shot the puck like a cannon right into Dr. Whooves. The Doctor got his glove on the puck but the force drove his hoof into the net. The jolt of the shot made him release the puck, giving Ponyville a quick response to the Rangers’ power play goal.
”PONYVILLE GOOOAAALLL!! Scored by number 8, BIIIG MAAAACINTOSHHH! Assisted by number 42, TWILIGHT SPAAAARKLEEE! And number 20, RAAAAINBOW DAAAASHHH!
Like a spark, the crowd was back into full blown party mode. Applejack hugged her brother as the rest of the team came in to congratulate him for the goal. Trixie hit herself in the helmet with her stick in frustration. The one-goal lead was expanded back to two with three minutes left in the second period. The next faceoff, the Rangers won the faceoff and trampled into the Ponyville end. Trixie reached into her game two bag of tricks and parked herself in front of Pinkie, facing face to face. Trixie waved her stick all about to distract Pinkie as the Rangers scrambled around to generate offense. The Rangers fired off a couple shots but could not get it past Pinkie who fought off Trixie’s distraction. The faceoff stayed in the Ponyville end and was won by the Rangers. Again, Trixie got in Pinkie’s face and flailed about. Twilight saw Trixie out from the corner and charged at her with a full head of steam. With a big push, Twilight knocked Trixie to the ice luckily as the puck came to her, so no penalty was called. The crowd cheered Twilight’s hit as the Golden Leafs shot the puck out of their end. Octavia and Rainbow were now in a hoof race to the other end, hoping to get an icing call or to prevent it respectively. The final thirty seconds of the period ticked away as the two racers rushed past the Manehattan blue line. With an extra burst of effort, Rainbow cut off Octavia to nab the puck away, negating the icing. Applejack was trailing the play and was now coming in through the middle wide open. Rainbow saw Applejack and passed it quickly. Leafs fans all stood up to watch the play as Applejack received the puck with a slight breakaway. Applejack snapped the puck off but was desperately knocked away by Dr. Whooves at the last second with his blocker. The crowd let out an “Awwww” and the second period came to a close.
The Leafs were loudly applauded off the ice again with a 3-1 lead and only ten minutes left until their season can be extended. Smiles were glowing on the Leafs’ faces as they stepped off the ice while the Rangers had bitter scowls heading into the intermission.
---
Twilight kept her troops focused as they entered the locker room. When everyone was settled at their stall, she stood at the front of the room. “Alright everypony, just ten more minutes. TEN more minutes. We were lucky to get a goal back after the Rangers’ goal. We can’t let up. Now, we know the Rangers and how they are. They’re going to be in super desperation mode. Expect to take some unclean lumps from them. No matter what tricks they try to pull, DO NOT let them get under your skin. We need to stay mentally tough and worry about our play. We have this!”
Rainbow stood up and joined Twilight’s side. “DARN right we do! Just picture this. The game is over, our fans are yelling their flanks off, and off in the corner, Trixie is crying her eyes out. The Rangers go home while we get to keep playing. Just keep that picture of Trixie’s crying loser face in your memory and we’ll win this!”
Twilight nodded with a smile. “The key this final period is poise. Hooves in, poise on three!”
The Leafs jumped out of their seats and merged at the center with their hooves in. “One…two…three…POISE!”
---
Ponyville Pond roared when the Leafs made it back onto the ice. The blue sea was rolling and the gold pom-poms were pulsating. The Rangers stepped onto the rink to a swell of boos. The clock set to 10:00 and the referee stood at center ice with the puck. With the electricity back in the air, both teams met at the center for the faceoff. Slammed with authority, the puck was in play and the third period was on.
Manehattan won the faceoff and deployed their desperation strategy on offense: firing the puck from all angles and storming the crease for rebounds. Bon Bon had the puck at the blue line and shot with reckless abandon. The puck bounced off Pinkie’s chest and landed in the crease where Scratch came in to try to knock it home. Luckily Fluttershy reached it first and slapped the puck away out of danger. The Rangers reset on offense and Lyra ripped a tight angle shot from the side. Pinkie moved over to hug the post but the shot skipped wide to Octavia behind the net. Octavia skated away from Fluttershy and peeled toward the net to fire another shot which Pinkie stopped. Pinkie held on to blow the play dead which was rewarded with a rousing cheer by the hometown crowd.
The ensuing faceoff was won by Rainbow and the Leafs tried to take the puck out of their zone. Manehattan stayed up on the forecheck and forced Rainbow to cough up the puck. Rangers swiftly moved back into the Leafs’ zone with intensity in their strides. Bon Bon carried the puck past the blue line and shot again. Lyra and Scratch blitzed the crease and out-powered Twilight and Fluttershy. Pinkie couldn’t corral the puck and left the rebound lying off to her side. Lyra dove toward the puck and shoved it in the net. The crowd’s buzz died as Lyra was pounced on by her joyous teammates.
”Manehattan goal, scored by number 10, Lyra, assisted by number 20, Bon Bon.”
With the game back to a manageable 3-2 deficit, the Rangers began to unleash their nastiness to turn the momentum. On the faceoff, Octavia collided with Rainbow and gave her a tiny headbutt to win the puck from her. When the puck was in the corner, Lyra fended off Big Mac with some hidden jabs from the butt of her stick. The Leafs tried to suppress their irritation and stayed strong. The Rangers kept slapping the puck from all angles and crashing the crease for rebounds, spraying Pinkie with ice nearly every twenty seconds when she came up with big saves.
When play resumed, the Leafs finally won control of the puck and tried anchoring themselves in the Rangers’ end to increase their lead and to melt time away. The puck was in the corner with Applejack and Scratch tussling for control. The scrum moved along the right wing boards close enough for Fluttershy to help out. Despite the two Leafs, Scratch came out with the puck and led the Rangers back on offense. Scratch dumped the puck into the corner for Octavia to swoop in after it. Fluttershy closed in along with Rainbow to fight Octavia for possession. Away from the play, Trixie skated out of position and drifted near Twilight. When the puck squirted out toward Twilight, Trixie snuck up behind her and stuck her front leg out to clip Twilight. The referee didn’t see Trixie’s slew-hoof and play resumed with the crowd yelling for a penalty. Even though the referee didn’t see the dirty move, Fluttershy did. Twilight weakly skated after the puck but her knees were jarring with pain. After a Pinkie save on Lyra to stop play, Fluttershy angrily mumbled under her breath.
“Trixie has been a thorn in our side for far too long. It’s time to take out the trash. She won’t hurt anyone else ever again!”
Twilight worked her legs out to regain feeling and to continue on. When the referee was ready to drop the puck, Fluttershy looked over to Trixie who had a giant, smug smirk on her face. Octavia won the faceoff back to Bon Bon while Fluttershy locked her sights on Trixie. Unfortunately for Trixie, Bon Bon passed it to her with an angry Fluttershy rumbling forward. When Trixie received the puck, she looked up and her face turned white as a ghost.
”YOU WILL PAY FOR YOUR CRIMES AGAINST INTEGRITY AND SPORTSPONYSHIP!”
WHAM! Launching like a loaded missile, Fluttershy and her rage wrecked Trixie to an enormous cheer from the crowd. With the puck flopping at Trixie’s skates, Rainbow glided in and picked it up for a breakaway. Leafs fans jumped up to watch Rainbow come in on Whooves. Rainbow pulled the puck left, then right, then left, then out forward. Whooves leaned forward for the puck, but Rainbow quickly pulled it back in. Rainbow danced around Whooves’ leg and pounded the puck into the net. Ponyville Pond’s roof blew up from an explosion of cheers as Rainbow flung herself into the glass. The Leafs rushed in to mob her in the corner as the Rangers gathered around their fallen captain.
”PONYVILLE GOOOAAALLL!! Scored by number 20, RAAAAINBOW DAAASHHH!”
Trixie was seeing stars as she gingerly stood up from the hit. Her teammates helped bring her to her hooves as the crowd continued celebrating. With only two minutes left, the Rangers’ future was looking bleak. Manehattan called time out to allow Trixie recovery time and to pull Dr. Whooves for an extra attacker with their season on the line. When it was time to resume play, Leafs fans were still standing and broke out a “GO LEAFS GO” chant. Blues, a playoff roster addition, came on for the Rangers as the sixth pony. The faceoff dropped and was won by the Rangers. Octavia brought the puck in and kept Rainbow at bay for her team to set up on offense. Blues went to the front of the crease to screen Pinkie as Octavia passed over to Scratch. Scratch wanted to shoot but Applejack hit the ice to block. Scratch saw Bon Bon open and shoved it over. Bon Bon immediately ripped off a shot and the Rangers crashed the net. The puck hit off Blues’ leg and came right to Octavia off to the side of the net. Pinkie tried diving over but Octavia slapped the puck in for a very critical goal with a minute left. Ponyville Pond hushed a little bit as the Rangers’ finished off their short celebration.
”Manehattan goal, scored by number 14, Octavia. Assisted by number 20, Bon Bon.”
Twilight quickly gathered up her team to calm their nerves and to finish out the final minute. The faceoff set back up at center ice and the crowd perked back up. Octavia won the pivotal faceoff and the Rangers rushed the Leafs’ zone in hopes of tying the score up. Octavia dumped the puck into the corner for both Blues and Scratch to scrum for it against Twilight. Applejack came in to help and the puck jumped back and forth from stick to stick. Finally, Applejack dug in and valiantly pulled the puck out. The Rangers quickly backpeddled as Applejack passed the puck up to Big Macintosh. Big Mac grabbed control and barreled through center ice as three Rangers ganged up on him to cut his stride off. Thirty seconds remained and an empty net was waiting off in the distance. Big Mac battled off the Rangers’ force and kept driving at the net. A fourth Ranger jumped in on the big guy but was no use. With a heroic blast, Big Macintosh blasted the puck into the empty net to put away the game for good. The crowd jumped and exploded with a deafening cheer that was heard miles outside the arena. Big Macintosh skated toward his teammates and they collided for a giant celebratory hugging pile at center ice. From the bench, Spike, Rarity, and Sweetie Belle were jumping up and down and trading hugs. On the Rangers’ side, they all collapsed to the ice in devastation. They buried their heads into the ice as Ponyville kept going bonkers.
”PONYVILLE GOOOAAALLL!! Scored by number 8, BIIIIG MAAAACINTOSHHH! Assisted by number 88, AAAAPPLEJAAACK!!”
Twenty seconds were all that were left on the clock. The Rangers took extra time pulling themselves up to the center circle as a new chant rung out through Ponyville Pond.
“WE WANT CLOUDS-DALE!” *clop clop clop-clop-clop*
“WE WANT CLOUDS-DALE!” *clop clop clop-clop-clop*
“WE WANT CLOUDS-DALE!” *clop clop clop-clop-clop*
Both teams were finally set at center ice with the electricity pumping through the atmosphere. Rainbow won the faceoff to Twilight who retreated back behind Pinkie. The Rangers didn’t give chase. The crowd counted down with the clock as the Leafs began to bunch up at their net. “FIVE…FOUR…THREE…TWO…ONE!”
With the final horn, the series victory celebration began. The Leafs tossed their sticks up into the air and shook their helmets off to bombard Pinkie in net. Spike, Rarity, and Sweetie Belle jumped from the bench to join in as fireworks exploded overhead and streamers fell to the ice. The Rangers were back down on the ice and despairingly came to grips with their season coming to an end. When the Leafs got up from their celebration, they began to line up at center ice to exchange the traditional hoofshakes after a playoff series has ended. The Rangers, sniffling and pouting from the loss, came up and formed their line. Trixie wanted no part of the tradition and began skating toward the locker room. However, when the rink door toward the hallway opened, Gary Bettpony stood up tall and blocked Trixie’s path. He angrily narrowed his eyes and forcefully pointed back toward the ice. Trixie flashed an uneasy, apologetic smile and quickly stumbled back toward the lines with her tail between her legs. The Leafs and Rangers crossed at center ice, exchanging hoofshakes with the arena still rocking. Trixie reluctantly went through the line and cordially congratulated the Leafs. When the shakes were done, the Rangers sadly drifted off the ice while the Leafs skated up to the boards and waved to all their fans. The fans responded in kind and gave their heroes a raucous round of appreciative applause. Leafs fans started trotting for the exits as the team went off for the locker room.
---
In the locker room, the Leafs popped open bottles of sparkling grape juice and began spraying each other and partying. Music was blasting, laughs were ringing out, and many hugs were shared as the celebration went on into the wee hours of the evening. Not wanting to disrupt the party, Gary Bettpony handed an arena worker a scroll to give to the Leafs. Twilight stepped away from the group and read the message.
Congratulations on your first series win. Your semifinal series against Cloudsdale begins in a week. The semifinals are also a best-of-three with games 1 and 3 in Cloudsdale. Congrats and good luck.
Twilight tucked the scroll away and returned to the party, electing to address the next round with her team later.
The Golden Leafs dodged a bullet and won with their best effort of the season so far. The celebration was well deserved, but their business was far from over. Cloudsdale, a rested, experienced, and poised team, now awaited the Leafs. Ponyville played the Red Wings very tough in the regular season, but will they be able to get over the hump and defeat Cloudsdale in the playoffs?
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars from Manehattan @ Ponyville
* Big Macintosh (PGL)
** Rainbow Dash (PGL)
*** Fluttershy (PGL)
EHL Playoff Schedule
---
(4) Ponyville vs. (5) Manehattan
(Ponyville wins 2-1)
Game 1: PONYVILLE 3, Manehattan 2 (OT)
Game 2: MANEHATTAN 4, Ponyville 1
Game 3: PONYVILLE 5, Manehattan 3
Semifinals (Best-of-3)
---
(1) Cloudsdale vs. (4) Ponyville
Game 1: @ Cloudsdale
Game 2: @ Ponyville
Game 3 (if nec.): @ Cloudsdale
(2) Appleloosa vs. (3) Canterlot
Game 1: @ Appleloosa
Game 2: @ Canterlot
Game 3 (if nec.): @ Appleloosa
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XFizzle
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1005
| 17 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-10-12T20:42:00+00:00
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2011-10-12T20:42:00+00:00
| 2,257 |
Equestria Hockey League Part XVI – Semifinals: Game 1
by XFizzle
Ponyville Pond was alive with lights and echoing sounds. The Ponyville Golden Leafs, fresh off their quarterfinals series victory over the Manehattan Rangers, were hard at work preparing for their next opponent, the Cloudsdale Red Wings. The pounding of the puck on the boards reverberated to the rafters as a faint smell of sweat dissipated into the cold air. Once the Leafs’ general practice routine was finished, Twilight rounded up the team to go over strategy.
“Alright team, when we face Cloudsdale, we have a very big task in front of us. Spitfire is the best scorer in the EHL and she’s super fast. We’re going to pay special attention to her in order to stop her from single-handedly beating us. I want us to double team her to ensure we always have somepony pressuring her. To practice this task, we’re all going to chase Rainbow in pairs. Rarity and Applejack will go first, then Fluttershy and I, then Big Macintosh and Spike. Rainbow are you ready?”
“Ready as ever, Twilight!”
“On my whistle, three…two…one…”
Tweeeeeeeeet
Rainbow exploded from the starting blocks and was gliding all over the ice while Rarity and Applejack gave chase. After a good minute of chasing, Rarity began to fade, leaving just Applejack to skate after Rainbow. Eventually, Applejack tired of skating and fell to the ice, leaving Rainbow victorious after three minutes of skating. Twilight gave Rainbow a minute to recover before starting the next wave.
Tweeeeeeeet
Twilight herself and Fluttershy were next to try hunting down Rainbow. Twilight faded quickly while Fluttershy was able to match Rainbow stride for stride for a decent amount of time. Gaining ground on Rainbow’s flank, Fluttershy leaned forward to tag her with her nose but just missed. Fluttershy spun out to the ice as Rainbow skated on. Fluttershy was given a round of helmet pats for her effort by the whole team as Rainbow recovered. Big Macintosh and Spike stepped for their turn.
Tweeeeeeeet
Rainbow blasted away, leaving Big Mac and Spike in the dust. The two forwards tried skating after her but Rainbow’s speed was just too great to catch. The chase drill continued for another six waves, three for Rarity-Applejack and three for Twilight-Fluttershy. By the end, the starters were wasted and sapped of all their strength. The Leafs took a long break to talk a little strategy. Twilight was back in front of the team with her notes.
“Since we know Cloudsdale is a very quick team, Rarity will go back to starting now that her hooves are healed. Big Macintosh, we will still need you for the penalty kill but we’ll need Rarity’s agility for even strength. Also, Cloudsdale passes the puck a lot. They like to bring the puck into our end instead of dumping it and chasing after it. That’s why when we’re done with this break, we’re going to practice flooding the center zone and preventing them from carrying the puck over the blue line. If we can stop their passes and force them to dump, we have a chance to control the puck.”
“Sounds pretty smart to me,” said Applejack.
“Oh yes, I’m ready to skate fast! Spitfire and Soarin are going to look like statues next to me!” shouted Rainbow.
“So let’s get back to the ice and work some more. Cloudsdale is very smart, calm, and collected. We’re going to need to work harder than them to win. Out-hustle and out-power. Let’s do it.”
“Right!” yelled the Leafs before heading back out onto the ice for practice.
The Leafs’ practice resumed and they worked on their defensive strategy. After an hour passed by, the team was spent again and were ready to pack it in. Before exiting the ice, an EHL official poked his head in to drop off a package.
“Hello?? I’ve brought your winged skates for Cloudsdale! Return these at the end of the series to the Canterlot headquarters okay? Good luck!”
“Thank you!” yelled Twilight from across the rink.
The Leafs skated off and picked up their pair of winged skates on the way to the locker room. Like the previous time, Twilight placed a spell on Fluttershy’s skates to give them wings as well because they were adorable and made her happy. Twilight and friends cleaned up and left the arena with confidence in their strategy and satisfaction in their practice effort.
---
Game day crept up on the Golden Leafs. To allow themselves enough time to get ready for the game, the Leafs met at the treehouse early to put on their winged skates and fly up to Cloudsdale. The flight up to Cloudsdale was easy but soon the atmosphere began to overwhelm them. Nearly every part of the city was turned red in support of the Red Wings. The Red Wings’ theme song “Hey Hey Hockeycloud” was blasting in the streets leading up to Foal Louis Arena. Despite it being a few hours before the game, Cloudsdale fans were beginning to bunch up at the arena entrances, anxiously waiting to enter. The Leafs reached the entrance and made it to their locker room. Taking their time and trying to remain calm, Twilight and company dressed and prepared their equipment. When the Leafs were done preparing, there was still nearly an hour before the puck dropped. A bright light emerged from the hallway and drew the Leafs’ attention. Trotting into the locker room was an EqSPN technician with a clipboard.
“Uhh, is Rainbow Dash here?”
Rainbow jumped from her stall with a smile. “Yes! I’m here!”
“Great, you’re going to be interview in five.”
Rainbow hopped up and down with glee. “Aww yeah! This beautiful face is going to be on television!”
Twilight and Applejack rolled their eyes while Rarity pouted. “Why won’t they interview meeee? I’m the most fabulous pony here. Don’t they care about my hoof injury healing?”
Rainbow pranced to the hallway for her interview. EqSPN reporter Beary Melrose was there to greet her with the cameras ready to roll. The technician counted down until the red light came to begin rolling.
“Hello hockey fans, I’m Beary Melrose and I’m here with the Ponyville Golden Leafs’ game three hero, Rainbow Dash. Now Rainbo-“
“Greetings Equestria! I am Rainbow Dash, the quickest skater in all the EHL! You can rest assured that I will do whatever I can to lead my team to victory and to put on a show for you all!”
Beary stared with confustion at the technician who shrugged back. Beary regained his composure and started asking his question.
“What will be your strategy when it comes to containing the EHL’s leading scorer and league MVP, Spitfire?”
Rainbow grabbed the microphone out from Beary’s claw. “We’re going to try to double team her to make sure she doesn’t destroy us. It will be okay though. She may be fast, but I’m faster!”
“Your starting left winger Rarity is back from her injury-“
Off in the background, a loud “THANK YOU!” rang out from Rarity in the locker room.
“-what will she bring to your lineup now that she’s healed?”
“Rarity’s fine. She’ll give us a wicked fast shot on the net. But her shots still aren’t as fast as me.”
“Finally, how important is it to come out strong early considering Cloudsdale’s been sitting at home for almost a week now?”
“It’s very important because if we score first, then we take the crowd out of the equation and the Red Wings will have to fight uphill. If anypony knows about fast starts, it’s me because I am fast. I will-“
Beary quickly interrupted before Rainbow could ramble off again. “Alright, that’s all from Ponyville center Rainbow Dash. Back to the fellas up in the booth. Guys?”
Rainbow growled when she got cut off and stomped back to the locker room.
Once Rainbow was back at her stall, Twilight stood up and walked to the front of the room for the pre-game speech.
“Alright girls. It’s a brand new series with new opportunities. Across the rink from us is a team who is very skilled, quick, and poised. It will take a lot of will and a lot of strength to knock them off. Be ready to push your bodies harder than you’ve ever pushed them before. Our strength will push us through. Also we have to be mentally tough. Mentally tough as in smart and sharp, not emotional. Cloudsdale is very skilled. We need to be alert and know what is going on at all times. One second of hesitation could result in a breakaway for Spitfire or for Soarin. Keep the Wings in front of us and we will come out fine. We have the talent to beat this team. We pushed them to the edge twice in the regular season. They won because we just couldn’t finish the job. Now’s the time to prove that we can put them away. Win tonight and we head home with a chance to end this thing. Hooves in, alert on three.”
The Leafs stood up and met at the center to put a skate in. “One…two…three…ALERT!”
The minute horn blared over the rink just as the Leafs had their cheer. Twilight turned to lead the team into the hallway and down to the ice surface.
---
Red Wings fans trotted to their seats for the introductions. When the lights dimmed, a roar rumbled out from the audience. First up were the Golden Leafs’ introductions. A spotlight shone over the Leafs’ entrance and one by one, the Leafs’ starters were announced. The girls skated out to boos and lined up side by side at the blue line. Big Macintosh, Spike, and Sweetie Belle made their way to the bench as fog rolled over the ice. “Hey Hey Hockeycloud” blasted through the speakers along with a video showing the Red Wings’ season highlights on the fog, bringing the crowd to their hooves. When the video ended, a giant decorative octopus slowly lowered from the rafters, eyes glowing red and smoke billowing from under its tentacles.
”Fillies and gentlecolts, introducing the regular season champions and Princess’ Trophy recipients, YOUR CLOUDSDAAAALEEE REEED WIIIIIIIINGSSSS!! Starting at left wing, number 44, GIIIIILDAAA! At center, the regular season MVP and Hart Maremorial Trophy winner, number 13, SPIIIIIIITFIIIIIRRRREEEEE!! At right wing, number 96, SOOOOAAAARIIIINN!! On defense, number question mark-exclamation point, DIIIITZY DOOOOO! Also on defense, the captain, number 5, PUUUUCKSSSS!! Starting in goal, number 35, SCOOOOOTALOOOOO!!”
The Red Wings skated out onto the ice to a raucous ovation. Foal Louis Arena was blanketed in red all around. The Leafs remained at the blue line as the Wings blazed around their end of the rink. When the lights came back up, the Wings’ playoff reserves, Cloudkicker and Boxxy, took their seats on the bench. Both the Wings and Leafs finished skating around and stretching, ready for the game to begin. The referee grabbed the puck and made his way to center ice. Rainbow met Spitfire at the dot as their respective teams drifted to their positions behind them. Pinkie Pie and Scootaloo raised their gloves to indicate their readiness. The Cloudsdale crowd stomped their hooves like a drumroll and let out a yell when the puck dropped on game one of the EHL semifinals.
---
Rainbow beat Spitfire off the draw and kicked it back to Twilight. Immediately Rainbow broke for the Cloudsdale zone. Twilight swiftly zipped a pass right onto Rainbow’s stick and the Golden Leafs were on their way. Ditzy and Pucks skated hard on both sides of Rainbow trying to grab the puck away. Being sandwiched coming up on the crease, Rainbow came to an abrupt stop, sending Ditzy and Pucks flying past. Rainbow flicked her stick and sent the puck over Scootaloo’s leaping blocker save. The Red Wings crowd was stunned to silence as the Golden Leafs crowded Rainbow to celebrate their quick goal.
”Ponyville goal scored by number 20, Rainbow Dash. Assisted by number 42, Twilight Sparkle.
Only twenty seconds into the game and the Golden Leafs had already taken a 1-0 lead. The teams were back at center ice for the faceoff to which Rainbow won again. The Leafs entered the Cloudsdale zone and did a great job of moving the puck around and taking shots when open. The Red Wings’ rustiness from their long layoff was showing as they had trouble taking the puck away from the Leafs’ grasp. The Leafs were able to send off five shots in a minute and a half of possession on offense.
Cloudsdale had their first surge of offense when Gilda jumped up to intercept Twilight’s pass to Fluttershy along the blue line. Gilda rumbled toward the net with Fluttershy and Twilight chasing behind her. The Cloudsdale crowd jumped up to watch the breakaway attempt. Gilda strode in with strength, choosing not to deke at all. With real estate running out in front of her, Gilda fired a shot on net. Pinkie swung her glove up and plucked the puck out of the air to a groan by the crowd. Instead of covering up, Pinkie dropped the puck and passed it up to Twilight who then hit Applejack in stride who had sneaked behind the Red Wings’ defense and had a breakaway herself. Applejack came in as Scootaloo wiggled up to the top of the crease. Applejack tried a deke but lost control of the puck, sending it to the corner. Both teams glided into the Cloudsdale zone and the Leafs had a couple more scoring chances before Scootaloo covered up.
Spitfire won the ensuing faceoff and led the Red Wings’ charge into the Leafs’ end. The Wings were starting to get their legs back and were shaking off the rust as the period went on. Spitfire was harassed by Rainbow behind the net as she tried weaving and bobbing to get a pass off. Finally she found Gilda on the left wing boards and shoveled it off. As Gilda received the puck, Soarin planted himself at the top of the crease to screen Pinkie. Gilda dodged a hitting attempt by Rarity and passed it to Pucks at the point. With Soarin giving Pinkie a fit, Pucks shot on net. As the puck came closer, Soarin became a little overzealous with his screening and knocked Pinkie with his rump. The puck pounded the top corner of the net to bring the fans to their hooves. The goal light and siren turned up when the referee charged in to emphatically wave his forelegs across his chest.
“No goal! Goalie interference!”
The cheers soured into boos when the crowd realized that the goal was waved off and the goal light and siren turned off. Soarin skated off to the penalty box in frustration as the referee announced the call.
“Cloudsdale, number 96, two minutes for goalie interference.”
The Leafs were about to begin their first power play of the series and kept their starters out for it. Spitfire won the faceoff to Ditzy who dumped it down ice. Pinkie skated out of the net to play the puck to Fluttershy who was first back. Fluttershy was carrying the puck up but got overwhelmed by Spitfire’s forecheck. Fluttershy fired off an errant pass that was controlled by Pucks, leading to another Wings dump on the penalty kill. Pinkie came out again to play the puck, this time to Twilight. Twilight passed to Applejack to bring it into the Wings’ zone with a minute left on the power play. Applejack dumped the puck behind the net for Rainbow to grab it. Pressured by Pucks and Spitfire, Rainbow fired the puck back to Applejack along the boards. Applejack then gave it to Fluttershy at the point who went to shoot. Gilda dove for the block, causing Fluttershy to pull the puck back and pass to an open Rarity on the left boards. Rarity was getting challenged by Spitfire and frantically looked for an outlet. Applejack switched positions with Fluttershy and was now at the point slapping her stick. Rarity looked up to see Applejack open and quickly flung the pass over before absorbing a hit. Applejack wound up as the puck came to her and pulled the trigger on the one-timer. The shot was rifled high toward the corner, just out of Scootaloo’s reach. With the goal light illuminated and the crowd moaning, Applejack stood up tall and did a hoof pump before her teammates surrounded her.
”Ponyville power play goal, scored by number 88, Applejack, assisted by number 9, Rarity, and number 0, Fluttershy.”
Soarin emerged from the box and the Red Wings got into their faceoff formation. The Leafs made their way to center ice now holding a stunning 2-0 lead over the regular season champions. Spitfire won the faceoff and the Red Wings tried to muster up a goal before the first period came to an end. Pinkie came up with a couple clutch saves to deny the Wings a deficit-cutting goal as the final seconds of the first period ran out. Confused and concerned, the Cloudsdale crowd sat in silence as the teams exited the ice for the locker rooms. The Leafs happily strolled into their room and refreshed for the second period.
---
The mood inside the locker room was pleasant and ecstatic. The team was somewhat in awe of their 2-0 lead on the mighty Red Wings. Twilight stood before them and tried to smack them back to reality.
“Although we had a GREAT period, we cannot let the Red Wings back in. They’ve proven that they can easily enter back into a game at any point. We were just able to capitalize on their rust. Let’s continue to own the puck because the longer we hold onto it, the less opportunities they have to score. If we get another goal early, we’ll definitely have the momentum. Everypony got it? Control the puck and we’ll be sitting pretty.”
Rarity let out a laugh. “Oh Twilight, we’re always sitting pretty. Well, maybe I am more often than the rest of you.”
Twilight rolled her eyes and then turned to lead the Leafs back to the ice for the next period.
---
The Golden Leafs were back on the ice first and were greeted by a round of boos. It took a few minutes before the Red Wings hit the ice, appearing that they were given some extra coaching by their captain during the intermission. Now that both teams were ready to go, the faceoff at center ice dropped and was won by Rainbow.
Ponyville’s attempt at controlling the puck and owning time of possession started off shaky as the Red Wings skated much faster than they had in the first period. Also the Wings were making a very conscious attempt at hitting the Leafs. Coming out from behind her own net, Twilight passed the puck to Rainbow along the glass before getting rocked by Soarin. Right when the puck came to Rainbow, she looked up and got absolutely steamrolled by Ditzy Doo. The hit was jarring enough to spark the crowd for a giant cheer. Off the flattening of Rainbow, Ditzy grabbed the puck and hit Spitfire in stride launching through the center. Twilight jumped in front of Spitfire to stop her from entering the crease. Spitfire was not deterred as she flicked the puck through her legs behind her to Pucks who was trailing behind. With a clear shot and with Spitfire and Twilight screening the goalie, Pucks rifled the puck to the left post. The puck glanced the pipe and hit the back of the net behind Pinkie for the goal. The crowd jumped up with the goal light flickering and the horn blaring as the Wings finally got on the scoreboard.
”RED WINGS GOOOOOAAAALLL scored by number 5, PUCKSSS! Assisted by number 13, SPIIIITFIIIIREEEE!! And DITZY DOOOOOO!!
“Hey Hey Hockeycloud” played as the Wings finished up their goal celebration and the Leafs set up at center ice. When play resumed, the Wings won the draw and proceeded to dominate the following two minutes. The Golden Leafs’ zone resembled a shooting gallery as the Wings passed, shot, then collected the rebound to set right back up. The Leafs had trouble keeping up with the Wings’ quick movements as the rust was all shaken off the Cloudsdale crew. Pinkie came up big with key saves and was exhausted by the end of the Wings’ flurry. Pinkie had to cover up and took a while to hand the puck over so she could catch an extra breather. On the faceoff, Spitfire won it back to Ditzy who held onto it so Gilda could get open near the left circle. Rarity picked up on the play and went over to cover Gilda as the puck came near them. Right as Gilda got the puck, Rarity whacked her stick onto Gilda’s, snapping it in half. The referee’s hoof immediately went up and the crowd was cheering for the penalty.
“Ponyville, number 9, two minutes for slashing.”
Rarity pouted her way to the penalty box and Big Macintosh came in for Fluttershy to help out the penalty kill. Foal Louis Arena was rocking now because the crowd was alive and ready to encourage their Wings to tie the game up. The crucial faceoff on Pinkie’s left was won by Rainbow and the Leafs dumped the puck down to Scootaloo. Scootaloo skated behind the net to hold it for Spitfire to collect. Spitfire carried the puck through center and brought it into the zone herself with a nice deke past Big Macintosh. Twilight and Rainbow closed in on Spitfire and forced her to shoot the puck into the left corner for Gilda to pick up. The Leafs and Wings set up into the respective formations with Gilda holding the puck along the boards. With the Leafs in their box formation, giving the Wings space to move, Gilda fired the puck around the back of the net for Spitfire. Soarin cut to the left faceoff circle and Spitfire threaded the needle on the pass through Big Mac’s and Rainbow’s legs to him. Pinkie overextended herself to follow the puck and was leaving the whole top half of the net open. Soarin reared back for a shot with Rainbow diving to block. The puck glanced off Rainbow’s stick blade, redirecting the shot just high enough to where it grazed the top of the crossbar and into the protective netting above the glass. A loud “Awwwww!” bellowed out from the stands as the Leafs had a big sigh of relief.
Rainbow won the faceoff to Big Macintosh who dumped the puck down to the Wings’ end. One last burst up the center for the Wings’ power play fell short as Spitfire’s pass to Soarin was off the mark and picked up by Twilight. Twilight dumped the puck one last time before Rarity exited the penalty box and Big Mac retreated to the bench. Only twenty seconds remained in the second period and the Wings could not get another shot off. The crowd was mostly silent again with only a couple smatterings of cheers as the period ended and the teams skated off.
---
“Alright! Ten more minutes and we’re up 1-0 going back to Ponyville! Let’s get this!” shouted Rainbow.
Twilight shot down Rainbow’s remark with her own. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, team. The game isn’t over yet. It’s not over until the clock reads 0:00. Our lead is only by one. All it takes is one goal by Cloudsdale and this game is up for grabs. We’re going to crowd the middle area and force them to dump the puck in. Not only will they have to skate more to get the puck, but it will allow us a chance to get the puck out of our zone more often. We have to pressure them and force them to make bad decisions. If we sit back and let them pile up shots, it’s not going to end well. Let’s forecheck, force them to dump, and hold on for the win. Pressure on three, team.”
The Leafs got together for their usual pump up tactic. “One…two…three…PRESSURE!”
The Leafs exited the locker room and hit the ice for the third and final period of game one.
---
“Here we go Red Wings, here we go!” was the prevailing chant among the fans as both teams were back for the third period. Wings and Leafs skated around their ends before the referee called them over for the faceoff. Spitfire and Rainbow met at the dot and went helmet-to-helmet. When the puck dropped, Spitfire dipped under Rainbow and squeezed the puck back to Pucks. The Leafs stayed up in the neutral zone instead of dropping back on defense, hoping to force a Wings turnover. Since they couldn’t move into the Leafs’ zone, Pucks and the Wings had to dump into the corner and chase after it. The Leafs’ strategy was working early as they grabbed the puck from the Wings’ dumps and brought it back on offense. As the opening minutes of the period went on, the Leafs could not get the backbreaking goal and the Wings began to figure out the Leafs’ forecheck. The Wings passed quicker and switched up their natural positions to confuse the Leafs.
With half the period over, the Wings controlled the puck and had to dump it down into the Leafs’ corner. Twilight went over to corral it but Spitfire came in fast to take it away. Rarity and Gilda came over to help win the puck battle as well. After a few minutes of pushing and poking, the puck squirted out from the scrum to the middle of the zone. Rainbow saw an opportunity and sprinted for the puck. Ditzy dove to poke the puck away from Rainbow’s path but missed, leaving Rainbow open for a breakaway. Spitfire got out from the corner and cranked up her speed trying to catch up to Rainbow. With Spitfire hot on her tail, Rainbow tried skating harder as both teams followed. When Rainbow wound up to fire a shot, Spitfire leaned forward and yanked the puck away. Rainbow continued her follow through and fell to the ice. Spitfire bolted the other direction with Fluttershy turning around to stop her from breaking away. Spitfire and Fluttershy were flank-to-flank as they closed in on Pinkie. Just as Spitfire went to make a move, Fluttershy stuck her stick out for the puck and knocked Spitfire to the ice. The crowd erupted with booing as the puck landed on Pinkie’s pad for her to cover up. When it looked like the Leafs got away with a break, the referee glided over and pointed his hoof at the net.
“Penalty shot awarded to Cloudsdale!”
Red Wings fans stopped their jeering and were now cheering wildly as the referee skated the puck to the center dot and Spitfire drifted around behind it. The Wings and Leafs gathered at their respective benches and the fans all stood up to watch. With the blow of the whistle, Spitfire began her stride and picked up the puck at center ice. Pinkie came out near the faceoff circles to cut down the angle and backed in as Spitfire got closer. Spitfire moved the puck right then left, then pushed it up closer to Pinkie. Pinkie was now in the crease and came up as Spitfire pulled the puck back. With Pinkie out of the net and on her knees, Spitfire floated the puck up over Pinkie’s blocker. Pinkie was thrown off by the shot and got a piece of it when she stood up but in the end, the puck flopped back down to the ice and trickled into the net. Foal Louis Arena erupted as Spitfire skated over toward her teammates at the bench.
”RED WINGS GOOOOOAAALLL scored by number 13, SPIIIIITFIIIIIREEEE!!
The game was now tied 2-2 as the Leafs looked on incredulously at what just happened. The Red Wings were still stoic in their demeanor and lined up for the faceoff, ready to take over the game. The Leafs quivered a tiny bit as they took their place. Rainbow won the faceoff but the Leafs quickly turned the puck over with poor passing. Cloudsdale controlled the puck as the electricity returned to the arena atmosphere.
A “LET’S GO WINGS!” chant echoed while the Wings cycled the puck around the Leafs’ zone. After a very hard shot on net from Ditzy, Pinkie gave the puck up to Rainbow who sought to put the team on her back and to reclaim the lead. Rainbow slashed through the neutral zone and tried passing it over to Applejack but missed. Pucks intercepted the puck and pushed it forward to Soarin who now had a 2-on-1 along with Spitfire. Rainbow spun around and got back to defend the break off her own bad pass. The crowd stood up to watch the play unfold hoping for a reason to celebrate again. Soarin passed to Spitfire as they crossed the Ponyville blue line. Rainbow stayed with Soarin, leaving Pinkie to deal with Spitfire. Spitfire aimed a shot right at Pinkie’s right pad. The puck bounced off right onto Soarin’s stick unbeknownst to Rainbow. Soarin flicked the rebound in, whipping Foal Louis Arena into a frenzy and sending the Leafs spiraling into despair.
”RED WINGS GOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLL!!! Scored by number 96, SOOOOOOAAAAAAARIIIIIINNNN!! Assisted by number 13, SPIIIIITFIIIIIREEEE!! And number 5, PUCKSSSSS!!
Soarin was smothered in the corner by the Wings as the arena reached a deafening pitch between the goal siren and the crowd. Rainbow kneeled down to the ice and banged her head against it in disappointment. Twilight and the others skated up to her to console her. During the Wings’ celebration, an octopus was flung onto the ice which garnered another loud cheer. The Wings’ zamboni mule trotted out to pick it up and flung it around his head much to the delight of the Wings faithful. When the revelry died down, Twilight called a timeout to delay the restart of the game. Pinkie came off the ice and Big Macintosh went on as the extra attacker since a minute and change remained in the game.
The referee called both teams over for the faceoff as Foal Louis Arena continued to stand. Spitfire won the faceoff to Ditzy who immediately tried firing into the open net. The puck skipped wide and Twilight went back to pick it up. Twilight passed up to Applejack who then tried hitting Rainbow cutting through the center. The pass missed and flopped into the corner where Pucks went after it. Big Macintosh charged in and pinned Pucks to the boards while trying to get the puck out. The puck came out to Rarity and she passed it to Twilight at the point. Thirty seconds remained in game one as the Leafs tried to tie up the contest. Twilight wound up for a shot hoping to make a Wing dive but nothing doing. She passed over to Fluttershy who then passed over to Applejack. Big Macintosh parked himself in the crease and towered over the young Scootaloo. All the Leafs needed was to fire on net but the Wings’ perimeter defense clogged the shooting lanes and stifled the Leafs’ movement. Applejack battled along the glass with Soarin and Spitfire on her. Ten seconds left. Rainbow swooped in and skillfully poked the puck out of the huddle to Fluttershy. Fluttershy ripped off a shot in desperation toward the net. As the puck came in, Big Macintosh shifted over to try to get a stick on it. Wings’ fans yelled out the final seconds. “Five…four…three…TWO…ONE…” The puck glanced off Big Mac’s stick and landed wide of the net, killing the Leafs’ chances to tie game one.
The final horn rung out as the Red Wings met at the net to hug Scootaloo and to celebrate the game one win. Fireworks exploded near the scoreboard and streamers shot out into the crowd. At the other end, the Leafs hung their head in bitter disappointment. Twilight’s crew sadly skated off toward their locker room having been defeated by the Red Wings for the third time this season under the same circumstances: blowing an early lead.
---
Ponyville’s locker room was dead silent as the team undressed. Once it appeared that everyone was done, Twilight kept her head up and stood up at the front of the room, remembering what happened last time they lost to the Wings.
“We didn’t close it out and get it done. We gave Cloudsdale life and just as we thought, they made the most of it. We’re still a good team! We held them off for two periods. We have the power and talent to beat them. We just need to put a full three period effort together. Hold your heads high because if you were to ask anypony on the street before the season started, no one would have imagined that we would be here right now. We are defying expectations by being here and even hanging with Cloudsdale. We can beat them! We have a great opportunity to go back home and tie this series up in front of our fans. All we need is a solid, complete effort and we’ll be back here for game three. I’m not going to mope around this time. I believe we can win and I hope you believe as well because if you don’t, then you might as well not show up at Ponyville Pond. Let’s get home and let’s come back here for game three, alright?”
“You got it, Twilight!” said Rainbow who appeared not too beaten up by her game-losing turnover.
Applejack stood up proudly. “I believe in this team! We can do it, y’all! Like Twi said, just need ta’ play a full game is all.”
“We’ll win the next game because I want to use my adorable winged skates again!” squeaked Fluttershy.
Fluttershy’s response lightened the mood as everyone laughed at her cute, yet serious reason.
“Back to Cloudsdale!” shouted Twilight.
“Back to Cloudsdale!” responded the Leafs.
To Be Continued
---
Three Stars for Ponyville @ Cloudsdale
* Spitfire (CRW)
** Ditzy Doo (CRW)
*** Pinkie Pie (PGL)
EHL Semifinals
---
(1) Cloudsdale vs. (4) Ponyville
(Cloudsdale leads 1-0)
Game 1: CLOUDSDALE 3, Ponyville 2
Game 2: @ Ponyville
Game 3 (if nec.): @Cloudsdale
(2) Appleloosa vs. (3) Canterlot
(Canterlot leads 1-0)
Game 1: Canterlot 2, APPLELOOSA 1
Game 2: @ Canterlot
Game 3 (if nec.): @ Appleloosa
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XFizzle
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1005
| 18 |
Big Macintosh,Bon-Bon,Braeburn,Caramel,Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Doctor Whooves,Gilda,Hoity Toity,Little Strongheart,Lyra,Main 6,Octavia,Photo Finish,Prince Blueblood,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Soarin,Spike,Spitfire,Trixie,Crossover,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Equestria Hockey League
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Twilight Sparkle and friends lace up their skates to play hockey with the EHL's elite
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complete
| 56 | 5 |
<p>After spending most of her time studying indoors throughout the winter season, Twilight Sparkle is given a new assignment by Princess Celestia: to form and lead Ponyville's new EHL team, the Ponyville Golden Leafs. Twilight and friends lace up their skates to take on the EHL's elite in hopes of winning the Celestia Cup with teamwork and friendship.</p>
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everyone
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2011-10-18T06:58:20+00:00
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2011-10-18T06:58:20+00:00
| 3,226 |
Equestria Hockey League Part XVII – Semifinals: Game 2
by XFizzle
The Ponyville Golden Leafs were back home in Ponyville awaiting to hit the ice to even up their series with the Cloudsdale Red Wings. Winter was in its final day with spring quickly arriving. Waking up later than usual, Twilight Sparkle drowsily glanced at the calendar to see what day it was. Encircled and in bold, black letters read “WINTER WRAP-UP”.
“Oh I completely forgot that winter wrap up is today! Ugh, I’m going to be late!”
Twilight galloped around her bedroom to grab her multi-team leader vest and her Golden Leafs hat and scarf and bolted out the door. When she arrived at town hall, the rest of her teammates were there in their respective vests. The other Ponyvillians were already hard at work helping to clean winter away. Twilight stood with her friends who were being instructed by Mayor Mare.
“It is quite alright. Your team has a very important game coming up. We do not expect you to help us as we learned from the last winter wrap up how to be organized. Really, conserve your strength. You have helped Ponyville enough by lifting the town’s spirits and inspiring the ponies to work harder!”
“All right! I’m going back to sleep then,” said Rainbow as she began to fly away.
“WAIT!” yelled Twilight, biting Rainbow by the tail to anchor her back to the ground. “That’s very thoughtful of you, Mayor, but we have a duty as Ponyvillians to help with the wrap up. We are a part of the community and we would feel awful if we didn’t lend our hooves to help.”
Applejack trotted up next to Twilight. “Darn tootin’! It just wouldn’t be fair to the ponyfolk if we skipped out on them.”
“Are you sure? It would mean a lot if you could help, but the town understands if you need to practice,” responded the mayor.
Fluttershy interjected, “Oh yes, we would be delighted to help. There are a lot of critters that need to be woken up.”
“And there are a lot more birds to build nests for this year,” replied Rarity.
The mayor had a relieved look upon her face. “Excellent. I will inform the interim team leaders to expect your help. On the town’s behalf, I greatly appreciate your kindness and valor. We will be behind you with one-hundred percent support at the game.”
“No problem, Mayor! We’ll get this winter wrapped up in no time!” shouted Rainbow who came around to the idea and accepted the challenge.
“Yay! I’ll get my skates!” squealed Pinkie.
With that, the Golden Leafs split up to join their usual teams with Twilight overseeing the entire process. The animals were awoken, clouds were pushed away, the ice was melted, birds nested back in the trees, and the farmlands were cleared and sown. Winter gave way to spring and Ponyville was green once again. Despite finishing even quicker than the previous year, the Golden Leafs were exhausted and decided to cancel their brief run-through of game two. The team hit the hay early in order to recuperate for their big day.
---
Dawn cracked on game day and the sun shone as bright as ever. Even though the town worked exceptionally hard the day before, Ponyville was painted royal blue and gold in honor of their hockey team. Despite the fact that their team was facing elimination, Ponyvillians maintained confidence and hope that the series would soon be tied. As per the usual, Twilight gathered the team at the treehouse to relax and stay loose before heading for the arena.
When it was time to depart, Twilight had a surprise for her friends.
“I was going to wait to give you all these, but since this might be our last day in the playoffs, I decided it wouldn’t hurt. I made them myself!”
Twilight levitated a bag over to her and unveiled its contents. They were pendants with each teammate’s cutie mark inside the Golden Leafs’ logo. Spike’s had a gleaming amethyst stone while Sweetie Belle’s had the Cutie Mark Crusader patch. The team admired and adored their gift, even Big Macintosh and Spike who had received more masculine looking necklaces.
“Thank you, darling! This is exquisite!” exclaimed Rarity.
“No kidding! This is awesome!” seconded Rainbow.
Twilight blushed. “It’s nothing, really. Just something to commemorate this season and our togetherness as a team.”
Applejack proudly put her pendant on. “That’s mighty thoughtful of ya, sugarcube.”
“Group hug everypony!” yelled Pinkie.
The Golden Leafs gathered in the center of the room to share a giant hug, except Big Mac and Spike who looked on with glowing smiles.
Rainbow trotted to the door and whipped it open. “Now that the mushy stuff is taken care of, let’s hit the arena and tie this baby up!”
“Yeah!” responded the others.
Together, the Golden Leafs marched out of the treehouse and proudly strolled down to Ponyville Pond ready to take on their biggest challenge.
---
A tunnel of screaming fans lined the entranceway to the arena. The Golden Leafs strolled through the fans and gave them all hoof bumps and waves as they passed through. When it was time to enter the building, the Leafs gave one final wave to their loyal supporters. Once the team passed the threshold and were on their way to the locker room, their lightheartedness and warm feelings quickly hardened into serious focus. When they arrived at the locker room, the doors were shut and bolted to dispel any distractions.
Inside, the team went through their dressing ritual, with no one deviating from the usual routine for superstitious reasons. Once ready, Twilight trotted to the front of the room to deliver what could be another final speech of the season.
“Team, great moments are born from great opportunity. And that’s what we have here tonight. That is what we’ve earned here tonight. A game. If we play them ten more times, they might win nine. But not this game. Not tonight. Tonight we skate with them. Tonight we stay with them and we shut them down because we can! Tonight we are the greatest hockey team in all of Equestria. We might not have been born to be hockey players, but we are now and we are here tonight. This is our time. Their time is almost done. It’s going to be over soon. I’m tired of losing to the great team the Red Wings are. Forget them. This is our time! Let’s go out there and take it! If you aren’t going to remember anything I’ve just said, then only remember this. When you put on this jersey, you represent yourself, your teammates, and this great town. The name on the front is a lot more important than the one on the back. We’re taking this thing back to Cloudsdale. Let’s go out there and give it everything we’ve got!”
Instead of jumping up and feeling rah-rah, the intense Leafs sat quietly and focused. Each gave Twilight a small nod to show their reception of her inspiring words. The one-minute horn blared inside the rink area, prompting the team to rise up together and march toward the doors. The Leafs blew past the EqSPN crew, who wanted a pre-game interview, and continued toward the ice. Ponyvillians were roaring from their seats for their team’s entrance. Ponyville Pond was making noise for their Golden Leafs and erupted when the door opened releasing the Leafs to the ice. The team bolted around their end of the ice while the Red Wings emerged from their locker room. The wild cheering turned into vicious booing for the opposition as both teams were now encircling their respective sides.
During warm-ups, a calming sight caught the Leafs’ eyes. Seated in the front row adjacent to the Leafs’ bench sat their families: Granny Smith with Apple Bloom, the Dashes and Fluttershies (wearing Golden Leafs jerseys), Rarity and Sweetie Belle’s parents, the Pies, and Twilight’s parents. The Leafs broke concentration to happily acknowledge their families but quickly regained their focus, skating even harder. When the pre-game countdown clock ran out, the lights dimmed and the introductions started drawing another roar from the crowd.
Mr. Cake belted out the starting lineups and charged the crowd up even more. When the lights returned, a rousing “GO LEAFS GO!” chant filled the air. The teams’ reserves took their places on the benches while the starters lined up for the opening faceoff. Pinkie and Scootaloo gave their ready signal to the referee who was standing before Spitfire and Rainbow. The puck dropped and the Leafs’ elimination game began.
---
Nerves were visibly high for both squads as the first couple possessions broke down into sloppy passing and turnovers. Cloudsdale was the first team to noticeably control the puck and brought it into the Ponyville zone. Soarin and Applejack were together along the right wing boards battling for the puck. Soarin broke through and passed it to the corner for Spitfire who had Rainbow right on her tail. Those two fought for the puck as Gilda and Rarity came closer to help out. While taking plenty of small jabs in the back, Spitfire kicked the puck back along the boards to Soarin who re-engaged in his battle with Applejack. Applejack poked and prodded away but couldn’t grab the puck. Soarin shot the puck back to the corner but was still being held up against the glass by Applejack. As play went on, Soarin tried getting loose but was kept close. The referee looked over, saw Soarin’s struggle, and flung his hoof up in the air. Once the Leafs touched the puck, play stopped and the Red Wings were about to enjoy their first power play of the evening.
“Ponyville, number 88, two minutes for holding.”
Applejack gave her argument as she drifted into the penalty box. Big Macintosh came off the bench for Rarity before the faceoff dropped to Pinkie’s right. Rainbow won the puck back to Fluttershy who slapped it off the glass. Unfortunately for the Leafs, Ditzy was hugging the boards and kept the puck in the zone. Ditzy passed off to Soarin on the right wing who passed it right back to Ditzy when Big Mac came over to apply pressure. Ditzy passed over to Pucks at the other point while Soarin broke for the crease. Gilda got separation from Rainbow and was open on the left wing boards. Pucks passed to Gilda who then tried zipping a pass to Soarin at the top of the crease. The Leafs all collapsed in on Soarin, leaving the point open. Soarin was able to flop the puck out to Ditzy who cranked up a shot. The puck shot off her stick like a laser beam right into the top corner of the net, just above Pinkie’s glove. The goal light illuminated and was accompanied by a disappointing groan from the crowd as the Red Wings came together at Ditzy.
”Red Wings power play goal scored by Ditzy Doo, assisted by number 96, Soarin, and number 44, Gilda.”
Applejack frowned while exiting the penalty box and rejoined her team at center ice. Rarity was back in and Rainbow won the faceoff. The Leafs were eager to go on offense and tie the game in order to get the crowd back into the game. Once in the Red Wings’ zone, the Leafs’ offensive pressure was meager and quickly broken down due to poor passing. Cloudsdale rushed back up the ice and were back in the Ponyville end. The Leafs stuck with their pony-on-pony defense and tried forcing the Wings to cough the puck up. The Wings countered with quick passes and stout play along the boards, easily fending off the Leafs’ prodding and poking. The puck was on the right wing boards with Soarin and Applejack battling again. Applejack was able to come away with the puck but had her pocket picked by a swooping Spitfire. Spitfire cruised down the slot, drawing in the Leafs’ defense, before kicking it back out to Pucks at the blue line. As Spitfire left the crease, Soarin came in and reclaimed his post at the top of the crease with Twilight trying to push him away. Pucks saw Rainbow closing in on him and ripped off a shot. Soarin nudged Twilight away just enough to tip his stick up to get a piece of the shot. Soarin’s deflection caused the puck to rocket upwards into the top of the net. Pinkie’s water bottle popped off, signifying another Red Wings goal. The crowd voiced their displeasure toward the Wings while they celebrated again.
”Red Wings goal, scored by number 96, Soarin, assisted by number 5, Pucks, and number 13, Spitfire.”
The Leafs found themselves in an early 0-2 hole and it was about to get worse. When play resumed, the Leafs got into the Cloudsdale zone but were only able to muster up one shot. Cloudsdale grabbed the rebound and were working their way into the Leafs’ end. An errant pass by Gilda to Spitfire came to Twilight and she tried passing up to start a rush. Spitfire chased Twilight down and pressured her into flinging the puck up and over the glass, just before the blue line. The crowd was booing again as the referee called a penalty and directed Twilight to the penalty box.
“Ponyville, number 42, two minutes for delay of game.”
Twilight shook her head as she went into the box and Big Macintosh was back on for the penalty kill in Rarity’s place. Rainbow won the ensuing faceoff and the Leafs dumped the puck down to Scootaloo. The Wings regrouped to form a rush but Rainbow blazed in to cut down the passing lane, dumping the puck back down again. This time, the Wings made it into the zone and set up their power play formation. After a few passes, Gilda had the puck and fired wide of the net, allowing Fluttershy to grab the puck and fling it down the ice once more. Thirty seconds remained on the Wings’ power play and fifty seconds remained in the period. Scootaloo came up to pass the puck to Spitfire to lead a final power play series. Spitfire carried the puck in over the blue line and made a beeline for the left wing boards. Rainbow and Big Mac came over to cut her off, leaving Ditzy an open lane to the net. Spitfire passed right through the two Leafs to Ditzy who barreled in on net. Fluttershy shifted over to cut her off, but by doing so left her post open for Gilda to sneak in the backdoor. Right when she received the puck, Ditzy shot off a one-timer. Pinkie made a great kick save but couldn’t control the rebound. The puck caromed off Pinkie’s pad and landed right onto Gilda’s stick. With a quick slap, Gilda put the puck home, expanding the Wings’ lead to three.
”Red Wings power play goal, scored by number 44, Gilda. Assisted by Ditzy Doo, and number 13, Spitfire.”
The Leafs’ overzealousness of covering Spitfire left them vulnerable and the Wings made them pay. The crowd fell silent, stunned by the first period onslaught by Cloudsdale. The remaining 25 seconds of the period ran out with little action. Beaming with confidence, the Wings quickly headed off the ice while the Leafs gathered at their bench. The Leafs’ families all stood up and were tapping on the glass to show their support but the team continued on their path off the ice.
---
The mood was tense and on the verge of accusatory in the locker room. The Leafs were dumbfounded as to how they started off so slow and allowed Cloudsdale to take a 3-0 lead. Twilight trotted over to Pinkie to surprise her with a lineup change.
“Sorry Pinkie, but I have no other choice. Sweetie Belle is going in for you for the rest of the game.”
“What? Aww come on Twilight, I can turn it around, I promise! I’ll bake you a caaaakeeee.”
Guilt weighed down on Twilight’s heart as she didn’t want to pull her friend. Twilight let out a sigh. “We need Sweetie Belle in net. It will force us to focus harder on defense to keep this game from spiraling out of control. I’m sorry, Pinkie.”
Pinkie crossed her forelegs and pouted. She started taking off her pads as Twilight went to Sweetie Belle. “Alright Sweetie, we’re counting on you to help stop the bleeding. We’ll do our best to keep the puck away from you.”
“Okay, boss!” squeaked Sweetie Belle with a salute. She proceeded to put on her pads with Rarity’s help.
Twilight informed the rest of the team of the change. “Alright team, Sweetie Belle is going in for Pinkie-“
“What?!” shouted Rainbow and Applejack.
“I know, but desperate times call for desperate measures. We need to slow the Wings’ roll and try to chip away at their lead. It may look daunting, but all we need is to get one goal to get some momentum back on our side. This game is far from over.”
“But Pinkie has been our goalie all year!” exclaimed Rainbow.
“I know, but with Sweetie in net, we’ll have no choice but to focus on defense. We’re also going to hit more. We let Cloudsdale skate right by us. If we can rattle them, we can force turnovers and get chances. Let’s tighten up and hit somepony!”
The team let out a half-hearted “Yeah” as they stood up to go back out on the ice.
Twilight tried to flash a smile but the Leafs trotted right past her.
---
The second period began with Ponyville Pond resembling a library more than a hockey rink. The fans were unenthused since they weren’t given a reason to cheer yet. The Leafs tried applying their strategy on the Wings to attempt to spark something. Soarin carried the puck into the Ponyville zone and was met with a giant Applejack check. The puck came to Spitfire who dumped it into the corner and chased after it. When she arrived there, Rainbow caught up and squeezed her against the glass, creating a little stir from the fans. One well-placed poke check later, Rainbow had control and led a Leafs rush on offense. Rainbow tried taking on the Wings’ defense on her own by dancing through the zone. She deked around Ditzy, dodged a check attempt by Gilda, and went flank-to-flank with Pucks. Rainbow soon ran out of space and drove a shot wide, eliciting an “Oooooooh” from the Leafs faithful. The Wings regrouped and started their charge back on offense. Their rush was stopped short at center ice thanks to a well-timed check on Gilda by Rarity of all ponies. The Leafs were starting to gather up some steam as they truly controlled the puck for the first time in the period.
Applejack dumped the puck behind the net for Rainbow to pick up. Rainbow fended off Pucks to keep play alive, slapping the puck around the boards to Rarity. Gilda came in for a revenge hit but Rarity got the puck off in time to Fluttershy. Fluttershy held the puck since none of her teammates were open. Feeling the pressure from the Wings’ defense, Fluttershy tried shooting the puck but whiffed. Spitfire dove in and took the puck away, sprinting off to a breakaway. The crowd stood as Spitfire closed in Sweetie Belle. Sweetie stayed in the net and awaited Spitfire’s maneuvers. Spitfire kept the puck steady as she closed in on the crease. Sweetie skated up a tiny bit to try to cut off some of the angle. Spitfire came in on the left, leaning away from the net. When Sweetie followed her, Spitfire quickly moved the puck right and extended her stick out, as if she was tucking the puck around Sweetie. The puck slid into the net for the Wings’ fourth goal of the evening as Spitfire was met by her teammates at the boards. Twilight and the Leafs looked down in disappointment because they were now in a deeper hole.
”Red Wings goal, scored unassisted by number 13, Spitfire.”
The crowd woke up but it wasn’t for cheering. With a loud swarm of boos ringing out, Twilight skated over to the referee to call timeout. The Leafs met at the bench as Twilight made a second lineup change.
“Sorry Fluttershy but we’re going to have Big Macintosh come in for you. It’s not because Spitfire took the puck from you. We just need a more physical presence, that’s all. You’ve been a great defensepony and teammate.”
With tears starting to well up in her eyes, Fluttershy quietly nodded and took her place on the bench next to Pinkie and Spike. Big Mac lined up with the Leafs for the next faceoff, hoping to provide a spark despite the 4-0 deficit. Rainbow won the faceoff and the Leafs were in the Cloudsdale end. Applejack had the puck on the right wing boards with Soarin nudging her. Big Mac skated in from the point to come to his sister’s aid. Big Mac forcefully tore the puck away from Soarin and now held it against the boards. Interested in challenging the stallion, Gilda flew in to battle Big Mac. Gilda gave Big Mac a cross-check in the back, then another, and another, and another, but Big Mac wouldn’t have any of it. He rumbled out of Gilda’s pressure but she kept him pressed against the glass. Despite being held, Big Mac kept his hooves moving. The referee finally noticed Gilda’s hold and was ready to call a penalty. Soarin came in to take the puck away but the whistle blew. The crowd finally gave out a cheer as the referee announced the call.
“Cloudsdale, number 44, two minutes for holding.”
Gilda angrily stormed toward the penalty box while both teams lined up for the faceoff next the Scootaloo. Rainbow won the faceoff back to Twilight, allowing the Leafs to set up their power play formation. The Leafs needed to score on this power play if they wanted to have any shot at coming back. Twilight passed to Rarity, who took the other spot on the point, and then Rarity passed to Big Macintosh on the left wing boards. Rainbow tried slicing down the center but was covered tightly by Spitfire. Big Mac passed back to Rarity with Rainbow continuing her stride to get open. Rarity swung the puck back over to Twilight who held it for a bit. Rainbow hesitated for a moment then blasted to the top of the crease, fooling Spitfire. Twilight fed Rainbow the puck through the Wings’ box formation. Rainbow quickly fired on net as she was pushed away by Pucks and Ditzy. The puck zinged into the top left corner before Scootaloo could even move her blocker. In one second, the mortuary-like silence of Ponyville Pond exploded into a wild yell as the Leafs were finally on the board. Rainbow danced off to the corner and awaited her teammates for the goal celebration.
”PONYVILLE POWER PLAY GOOOOOAAAALLL!! Scored by number 20, RAAAAAINBOOOOW DAAAAASHHHH!! Assisted by number 42, TWIIILIIIGHT SPAAARKLEEEE!! And number 9, RAAAAARITYYYY!!”
Gilda exited the box with a slam of her stick against the door. The Red Wings lead was now three with the Leafs looking to chip away even more before the second intermission. Less than a minute remained in the period as the faceoff took place at center ice. Rainbow outhustled Spitfire and kicked the puck back to Big Macintosh. He immediately slung the puck back up to Rainbow who skated right through the Red Wings forwards. Rainbow rumbled her way toward the net with Pucks and Ditzy trying to poke the puck away. Rainbow wound up to shoot but was knocked over by Pucks at the last second. Falling to the ice, Rainbow fired off an odd shot. The puck fooled Scootaloo, but it clanged off the post. The crowd jumped up at the scoring attempt and let out another “Awwww” when it missed. The final seconds of the period ticked away with the score remaining 4-1 in favor of Cloudsdale. With momentum ever so slightly shifting over to the Golden Leafs’ side, they were given a hearty round of applause by their fans when they left the playing surface. The Leafs felt better about themselves and held their heads high when they entered the locker room.
---
Instead of giving new instructions of inspirational words to the team, Twilight told her crew to freshen up and to then come out into the hallway. Slightly confused, the team complied and found themselves back near the rink. Even though there were only zambonis on the ice, Leafs fans were still making noise. A small section started a “GO LEAFS GO” chant with the rest of the arena joining in. Twilight raised her hoof to the sky.
“Hear that? These fans, our fans, are still cheering for us. Even though we’re losing by a lot, they still believe. They have faith. They know we have the talent and ability to come back.”
“They are makin’ a lot of noise still. That’s amazin’,” said Applejack in awe.
“Absolutely admirable. They love us, they really love us!” said Rarity in agreement.
“We gotta do everything we can to keep them cheering! We’re all in this together!” exclaimed Rainbow.
“Right! We only have ten minutes left. Ten minutes to leave everything out on the ice. Let’s give them everything we got. No regrets, no thinking what could have been. If we give one-hundred percent, there will be no uncertainty when it’s all over. Let’s do it for OUR FANS! FOR PONYVILLE!”
The Leafs all stuck their sticks in the air. “FOR PONYVILLE!”
---
Refocused with the crowd doing their best to spur them on, the Golden Leafs came out with a strong start to the third period. The Wings could not move the puck and found themselves either on the ice or on the glass from the Leafs’ hitting. The Leafs were in the Cloudsdale zone looking to chip away at their 4-1 deficit. Rainbow was challenged by Spitfire behind the net and tried moving along the boards. Seeing Rainbow struggling, Applejack came by and set a pick on Spitfire to spring Rainbow loose. With room to move, Rainbow peeled around the net but was tripped up by Spitfire who reached through Applejack’s pick. Rainbow crumpled to the ice, prompting the referee to blow the whistle for a penalty. With momentum inching closer toward the Leafs, the crowd’s applause drowned out the ref’s announcement.
“Cloudsdale, number 13, two minutes for tripping.”
The faceoff was off to Scootaloo’s left and won by Soarin. The Wings dumped the puck down for Sweetie to retrieve it and pass up to Rainbow. The Leafs hung back by the blue line and entered when Rainbow sliced down the middle. Rainbow drew in the Wings’ box defense, then kicked it out to Big Macintosh who was covering the point. With the Wings’ defense drawn in, Applejack found a lane to the net and parked herself in the crease. When Big Macintosh ripped off a shot, Rainbow dodged out from the middle, leaving space for the puck the fly through. Applejack saw the shot the whole way and got her stick on the puck, redirecting it through Scootaloo’s five-hole for a very crucial goal. Leafs fans leapt to their hooves with the goal horn bellowing out and the Leafs coming together to celebrate.
”PONYVILLE POWER PLAY GOOOOAAAALLL!!! Scored by number 88, APPLEEEEJAAAACK!! Assisted by number 8, BIIIIG MAAAACINTOSHHH, and number 20, RAAAAINBOOOOOW DAAAASH!!”
Seven minutes remained in the game as the teams reset at center ice with a “GO LEAFS GO!” chant echoing to the rafters. This time Cloudsdale won the faceoff and controlled the puck in the Leafs’ end, hoping to tack on an insurance goal. The Leafs tried playing physical but the Wings squirted by with their speed. Spitfire passed to Gilda in the left corner and Gilda tried using her strength on Rarity to get to the net. Rarity couldn’t hang on, leaving it up to Big Macintosh to come over and cut the griffon off. Before Gilda was met by Big Macintosh, Soarin snuck behind Twilight and called out to Gilda. Gilda quickly forced the puck over and it landed on Soarin’s stick, just out of Twilight’s reach. Soarin had to settle the bouncing puck down before shooting, giving Sweetie Belle time to move over. By time Soarin fired away, Sweetie Belle came over the top of it and clamped down, preventing what could have been a devastating Wings goal. The crowd yelled their approval as play was stopped. Sweetie was given plenty of love taps on the pads while the Leafs set up for the faceoff. Rainbow won the draw and the Leafs were back in business.
In the Cloudsdale end, the Leafs played along the boards and were able to hold off the Wings’ pressure. Twilight had the puck at the point with both Rainbow and Applejack trying to gain access to the crease. With nowhere to go, Twilight attempted to shoot. At the last second, Spitfire dove and poked the puck away, knocking it away toward center ice. Twilight and Spitfire were now in a race for the loose puck with the others quickly giving chase. Twilight and Spitfire went flank-to-flank with the puck inches away from them. Spitfire got to the puck first but in a very smart and skillful move, Twilight adjusted and slid her stick behind Spitfire’s legs to scoop the puck right out from under her. When Twilight stole the puck away, Rainbow did a 180 and sprinted to the blue line. Twilight zinged over a pass right onto Rainbow’s stick, giving her an open path to the net. The crowd jumped up with hope coursing through their veins as Rainbow had herself a breakaway. Rainbow reared her head back for a slap shot, drawing Scootaloo out of the crease. On the follow-through, Rainbow faked the slap shot and swiftly dove to the right, leaving Scootaloo out to dry. With the net now wide open, Rainbow slid the puck in and crashed into the boards. Ponyville Pond erupted once more and the Leafs smothered Rainbow in the corner.
”PONYVILLE GOOOOOOAAAAALLLL!!! Scored by number 20, RAAAAAINBOOOOW DAAAAASHH!! Assisted by number 42, TWIIILIIIGHT SPAAAARKLEEE!!”
The once daunting 4-0 deficit was now 4-3 with four minutes remaining. Among the raucous yelling, a very audible “GO LEAFS GO!” chant stirred back up as the Wings called a timeout to recollect and regroup. When the Wings gathered at their bench to talk, the fans near the glass directed their shouting toward them, hoping to give them hearing troubles. After a few minutes of talking, the referee came over to break up the timeout. The Wings met the Leafs at center ice and play resumed with both teams placing everything on the line.
The puck bounced back and forth over center ice with both teams barreling into the offensive zone then getting denied by the defense. The Wings were more conservative in their approach, holding onto the puck longer and playing keep away as the Leafs tried forechecking and forcing a turnover. The Wings’ keep away strategy helped burn two minutes off the clock, leaving just that, two minutes left. Sweetie Belle had just made another crucial save and stopped play. During the stoppage, Twilight quickly gathered her team for a new direction.
“When we hold the puck in the Cloudsdale end, Sweetie, you’re going to the bench for Fluttershy. We’re going for the extra attacker. Everypony got it? Also Rainbow, this is a VERY important faceoff. You have to win it!”
“Yes sir!”
Rainbow narrowed her eyes and licked her lips before bending in for the draw against Spitfire. When the referee started his motion to drop the puck, she placed her stick right under Spitfire’s and won the puck back to Twilight. Twilight passed up to Applejack who crossed center ice. The crowd’s yelling picked up when they saw Sweetie Belle scoot toward the bench for Fluttershy. A bit frazzled, Fluttershy nearly tripped while jumping over the bench but she recovered and was in on the Leafs’ offensive charge. The Wings came up and challenged the Leafs’ puck holder, forcing a long string of passes with no shots. Finally, with an open lane, Big Macintosh ripped a shot from the point. The puck was blocked by one of Pucks’ legs, causing him a great deal of pain. The ricochet took the puck out of the zone, heading down toward the empty net. Rainbow blasted off along with Spitfire to chase down the puck with the fans eagerly looking on. With the comeback on the line, Rainbow found an extra gear and boosted herself past the Wings’ center, taking the puck away and rushing back on offense. A roar erupted from the crowd when Rainbow retrieved the puck and started up their “GO LEAFS GO!” chant. Rainbow passed to Applejack who dumped it into the corner for Big Macintosh to rumble in and take it. Big Macintosh took on Ditzy, Soarin, and Gilda while trying to bust open from the corner. Finally, with a giant push, Big Macintosh came out of the corner and passed it to the open point. Twilight wasn’t going to make it, so she dropped her stick to yell to Fluttershy.
“FLUTTERSHY, YOU TAKE IT!!”
Running on pure adrenaline and with her nerves pounding on her like a thousand hammers, Fluttershy jumped up to retrieve the pass. Heart bursting and ears ringing, Fluttershy closed her eyes and ripped a shot on net. Scootaloo came over and put her glove up attempting the catch the blazing puck. The puck glanced off the glove and found its way to the back of the net. The roof almost tore off Ponyville Pond as all the fans jumped ten feet up in the air and yelled their lungs out. Fluttershy opened her eyes to see a horde of blue jerseys engulfing her and hugging her down to the ice.
”PONYVILLE GOOOOOOAAAAALLLL!!! SCORED BY NUMBER 0, FLUTTERSHY!! ASSISTED BY NUMBER 8, BIIIIG MAAAACINTOSHHH!!”
The Leafs peeled away from their celebratory pile while the Wings turned stoic and unemotional. Fluttershy took her seat back on the bench and was hugged by Spike and Pinkie while Sweetie Belle shuffled back into the net. Thirty seconds were all the remained and the key now was to not allow a breakdown before time ran out. Luckily, Rainbow won the faceoff again and the Leafs held on for the overtime period. Leafs fans remained standing and wildly yelled when the period horn rang out. The Leafs waved their sticks up in the air as they left the ice to whip up the fans even more. Both teams went off to their respective rooms to freshen up and refuel for sudden death.
---
No words were spoken during the intermission. Each and every one of the Leafs did what they needed to do to prepare for the new period. Their excitement from the game tying goal dissipated quickly and they refocused greatly. In the other locker room, the Wings followed suit with each player retooling and not saying a peep. Both teams knew what was on the line. For the Wings, a trip to the Celestia Cup Finals hung in front of them, while for the Leafs, their season and all the effort, blood, sweat, and tears they had invested in the season hung in front of them. When the intermission clock wound down to zero and the horn rang, both teams stood up and marched back out onto the ice with quiet intensity.
---
Not one fan was seated as the Wings and Leafs met at center ice for the faceoff. Ponyville Pond was vibrating from the deafening atmosphere as the referee slammed the puck down to begin overtime. Rainbow bested Spitfire again and won the faceoff back to Big Macintosh. Big Macintosh fired the puck into the corner for Rainbow and Applejack to chase after it. A giant scrum of Leafs and Wings converged at the corner, breaking out into a feisty scrap for puck possession. The puck jostled back and forth from a Wing possessing it to a Leaf possessing it. Finally, the puck squirted out to Rarity who had kept her distance from the pile-up. With only Gilda between her and the net, Rarity quickly fired a shot. The puck beat Scootaloo’s glove but she was bailed out by the post, with an enormous clang ringing out. The puck found its way back into the corner scrum where the Wings and Leafs did battle again. Finally, Spitfire used her agility and puck control skills to squeeze out of the Leafs’ grasp.
Gary Horne on the call: “Here come the Wings on offense after the Leafs ALMOST put the game away with a post-rattling shot. Spitfire passes to Gilda in front of the bench and she dumps it into the corner. Spitfire charges in and beats Twilight Sparkle to the puck as the Red Wings set up along the perimeter. Spitfire holds off Twilight and passes off to Pucks at the point. Soarin rushes to the front of the net. Here comes Rainbow Dash and Applejack to pressure the Wings’ shooter. Pucks and Ditzy switch points clearing up room for Pucks to fire a shot. The puck bounces off Soarin and is somewhere in the Ponyville crease! Sweetie Belle can’t find it! Neither can the Wings and the Leafs! A giant pile is forming in the crease trying to find the puck! The puck finally squirts out and Ditzy Doo is swooping in AND SHE SCOOOOOREEEESSS!! THE RED WINGS HAVE SCORED IN OVERTIME TO ADVANCE TO THE CELESTIA CUP FINALS!! Ditzy Doo sifted through the scramble for the puck and slammed it home to send Cloudsdale onto the next round!”
The Red Wings tackled Ditzy Doo into the corner and were celebrating exuberantly while Ponyville Pond stood in complete silence. With one shot, the Leafs’ season was demolished. All the time, effort, energy, and dedication spent trying to be a successful hockey team was taken away in one moment. In front of the net, every Leafs player laid flat on the ice, face down. After a minute of letting everything all sink in, the Leafs slowly and tearfully pulled themselves up off the ice surface. Rainbow, Applejack, Big Macintosh, and Spike had quivering, disappointed frowns on their faces. Twilight, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy, and Pinkie were completely distraught as tears flowed down their faces like five running faucets. The crowd snapped out of its silence and was now supporting their team with loud applause. Cloudsdale had already lined up at center ice for the post-series hoofshakes. The Leafs sadly made their way to center ice and began exchanging the traditional pleasantries.
Spitfire was first to greet Rainbow and whispered in her ear, “Keep your heads up. You guys are going to be great.”
“Thanks. Good luck,” responded Rainbow tersely.
The remainder of the hoofshake line concluded the same way, with Wings players telling the Leafs that their future is bright and the Leafs wishing the Wings good luck in the finals in return. At the end of the line, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle came together to share a giant hug. From the crowd, Apple Bloom pounded on the glass rapidly to show her support for her two friends. The Wings bunched up together one last time to share helmet taps before heading off to their locker room to party.
The Leafs stopped dead in their tracks and looked around the arena with their vision clouded by tears. Ponyville Pond, still at full capacity, rewarded their team with a very boisterous, sustained round of applause for everything the team had done for the season. After hearing the fans’ appreciation and seeing their families’ warm, loving faces smiling back at them, the Leafs wiped the tears from their eyes and started waving back. The applause grew louder as the team stood along the center ice circle. Together, they all raised their sticks to the sky then slapped them down onto the ice, drawing more applause. Drifting toward their locker room, Twilight and company finally cracked an overwhelmed smile, their tear ducts having dried out. The applause and cheering from the crowd could still be heard down the hallway and into the locker room as Ponyville showed they truly loved their Golden Leafs.
---
The smell of sweat and the sound of loud sniffling filled the air in the locker room. Many of the girls tried holding it together while they cleaned up but found themselves taking on tears again. When the team was out of their uniforms, Twilight tried to gather up her composure to address her friends.
“I *sniff* just wanted to *sniff* say-“
Suddenly, a giant burst of light came from the center of the room. When the light dimmed down, Princess Celestia proudly stood before them with a caring smile on her face. She trotted up to each pony and gave them a consoling nuzzle.
“Fear not Golden Leafs for you have very much to be proud of. You have brought a community together and you gave thousands of ponies hope and courage. The hard work and dedication you exhibited all season was admirable and inspirational. I am very proud of you all. I was not wrong in granting you a team.”
Twilight and friends looked up to the princess with slight smiles and flush cheeks. Twilight trotted up to her mentor and hugged her.
“Thank you, Princess. We’re glad we didn’t disappoint you.”
“You’re very welcome. Remember to always give your all and to be the best team you can be. Twilight, I shall be looking forward to you report on teamwork and friendship.”
Twilight nodded to her team. “No need Princess. I think we’re ready to deliver it now.”
“Oh?”
“Yes. Spike, take a letter please!...Oh, right.”
Everyone laughed as Twilight blushed in embarrassment. “The Ponyville Golden Leafs learned a variety of very valuable lessons from this season. We learned that when responsibility is thrust upon you, you have to take action and perform to the best of your ability, even if you have to learn about the responsibility first.”
Applejack took over the report next. “And that when yer learnin’ somethin’ new as a team, you have to have patience ‘cause not everypony is going to pick it up right away. Also, when you face some rough times or face somepony who isn’t followin’ the rules, you have to keep yer cool and make the right decisions.”
“Yeah, and you have to remember to sit back every once in a while to have fun and enjoying your time with your friends. Sure you can have some friendly competition, but at the end of the day, a real team gets the job done while having fun,” continued Rainbow.
“And when somepony or some team is receiving unfair treatment, you must handle the situation with poise and class, not lowering yourself to childish complaints,” said Rarity.
Pinkie bounced in front of Rarity to keep the report going. “Also when your friend is hurt, you have to stick up for them and help them out!” Pinkie playfully nudged Fluttershy as she spoke, referring to the Fillydelphia incident.
Fluttershy smiled and then reached over to pat Sweetie Belle on the head. “And if you see somepony else being hurt, you must try to lend a helping hoof because no pony should ever be hurt by others.”
Twilight nodded and finished it off. “Finally, when working as a team, there are going to be some rough times where things won’t always work out. In those times of trouble, you have to come together to wrinkle out any problems or issues while not letting your emotions get the best of you. Underneath the jerseys, and pads, and skates, we’re all still best friends and with our friendship, no problem will ever be too great to handle as long as we care for each other and work together!”
Princess Celestia nodded with a grin. “Very well, Ponyville Golden Leafs. You have clearly demonstrated that you learned many lessons as a team and that those lessons have strengthened the bonds of your friendship. I must go now. Congratulations on your season and good luck next year.”
“Thank you, Princess!” yelled the Leafs as she disappeared in another flash of light.
---
The Cloudsdale Red Wings went on to face the Canterlot Equestriens for the Celestia Cup after Canterlot dispatched the Appleloosa Black Apples in two straight games. The thrilling Celestia Cup Finals came down to a deciding game five where Canterlot did the unthinkable and won in Cloudsdale to capture their all-time leading 25th Celestia Cup. Equestriens’ goalie Pony Joe was the Colt Smythe Trophy winner (Finals MVP) after posting two shutouts in the series.
At the EHL Awards Ceremony, the Golden Leafs were in attendance to support Rainbow Dash’s winning of the Calder Maremorial Trophy for best rookie. Spitfire received the Hart Maremorial Trophy for league MVP, Sheriff Silverstar received the Norris Maremorial Trophy for best defensepony, and Bloomberg won the Jenneighs Trophy for best goals against average among goalies.
---
Epilogue
Back at the EHL offices, Gary Bettpony was closing up the building for the summer. With the Celestia Cup making the rounds in Canterlot and the EHL Draft a month away, it was time for the league to go on a short hiatus. Gary closed his office door and locked it, with the noise of the lock echoing through the hallway. As the Commissioner trotted his way toward the exit, the lights suddenly flicked off.
“That’s strange. Is there a power outage?”
Gary pulled a flashlight from his briefcase and turned it on. Right as he was about to leave the building, the main doors were bolted shut and an eerie red glow emanated from the receptionist’s desk. Gary saw that the glow was from the telephone. Confused and slightly apprehensive, Commissioner Bettpony answered the phone.
“H-hello? Who is this?”
“Why hellooo Commissioner Bettpony! I certainly know who you are, but I’m quite sure you do not know who I am.”
“Who is this?! What are you calling for?”
“What am I calling for? Let me put it this way. Do you remember the lights turning off just now?”
“Did you do that? Turn them back on whoever you are!”
“As soon as I snuffed out the lights, did you feel helpless and confused?”
“Well, yes, but damn it! Show yourself!”
“That little trick is just a very teeny tiny sample of my power. I thrive off causing confusion and making ponies feel terribly helpless. As for showing myself, well just turn around.”
Commissioner Bettpony took in a giant gulp and slowly turned around. Towering before him was a very tall, snake-like creature with limbs composed of all sorts of various species. Beside him was a shadowed pony accomplice. With no time to react, Commissioner Bettpony dropped the phone and yelled in absolute horror. In a giant flash of light, the frightened EHL Commissioner was encased in stone. The mysterious figure and his companion laughed boisterously at their overtaking of the EHL’s leader.
“The EHL is about to enter a world of chaos. The great and powerful world of Discord.”
To Be Continued in EHL Season Two
---
Three Stars from Cloudsdale @ Ponyville
* Ditzy Doo (CRW)
** Spitfire (CRW)
*** Rainbow Dash (PGL)
EHL Semifinals (Home Team in CAPS)
---
(1) Cloudsdale vs. (4) Ponyville
(Cloudsdale wins 2-0)
Game 1: CLOUDSDALE 3, Ponyville 2
Game 2: Cloudsdale 5, PONYVILLE 4 (OT)
(2) Appleloosa vs. (3) Canterlot
(Canterlot wins 2-0)
Game 1: Canterlot 2, APPLELOOSA 1
Game 2: CANTERLOT 4, Appleloosa 2
Celestia Cup Finals (Home Team in CAPS)
---
(1) Cloudsdale vs. (3) Canterlot
(Canterlot wins 3-2)
Game 1: CLOUDSDALE 5, Canterlot 2
Game 2: Canterlot 3, CLOUDSDALE (2 OT)
Game 3: CANTERLOT 4, Cloudsdale 0
Game 4: Cloudsdale 6, CANTERLOT 3
Game 5: Canterlot 2, CLOUDSDALE 0
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Thyrai
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1006
| 1 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Rainbow Dash,Twilight Sparkle,Dark,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Decay
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With the time she has left, Rainbow seeks what is truly important before moving on
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complete
| 790 | 28 |
<p>With the time she has left, Rainbow Dash seeks what is truly important in life before moving on.</p>
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teen
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2012-11-06T08:47:09+00:00
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2012-11-06T08:47:09+00:00
| 37,554 |
Decay
Part One - First Breath After a Coma
Thyrai
Live Reading by lk12lk21
“We’ll be washed and buried
One day my girl
And the time we were given
Will be left for the world
The flesh that lived and loved
Will be eaten by plague
So let the memories
Be good for those who stay."
Rainbow Dash ground her teeth together. If finishing this race killed her, she wouldn't care. Her stomach ached with nausea and her chest was on fire with a searing, unbearable pain. Her head was pounding like a drum, and her vision was fragmented. Although she usually enjoyed the feeling of wind pulling on her mane, it now felt as though it was being ruthlessly ripped from her scalp.
She fought with all she had. 'I've worked my entire life for this.' she repeated over and over in her head. Failing now was not an option. It never was.
Despite her condition, Dash had managed to keep up with the three top racers. Normally, they wouldn't have presented much of a challenge for Equestria's Self-Proclaimed Fastest Flier. But things were different now.
The racers rounded the corner after the ninth gate, closing in on the finish line. A straightaway. Perfect. Rainbow did her best to streamline herself, aligning her hooves with the rest of her body. Her limbs screamed out in agony, but she managed to gain enough speed to rocket past the other racers.
She was almost there, and the finish line was now clearly visible in the distance. 'I can do this. I have to finish. I have to win.'
500 meters out.
The blazing pain in her lungs only allowed her to take quick, shallow gasps for air. It was as if there was a knife lodged inside her chest, cutting into her with each breath she took. Rainbow could feel herself beginning to black out.
300 meters.
The announcer said something over the megaphone. The crowd was roaring. It was loud. Too loud. The sound echoed inside Rainbow's head like a drum. She could have sworn her skull was beginning to split at its seams. It was cracking under the strain of sound. The pain was unbelievable.
100 meters.
Rainbow's body finally had enough. Her wings gave out, leaving her in an uncontrolled spiral towards the finish line. Her body flipped and tossed in the air, and she caught a quick glimpse of the rest of the racers sprinting behind her.
She briefly heard the crowd grow louder before the world faded into darkness.
---
Three Days Earlier
Rainbow yawned and fell back onto her sofa. It had been a long day of training. After completing her weather duties for the day, (taking no more than a mere ten seconds) Rainbow had practised her tricks and stunts from dawn till dusk. The Wonderbolts Auditions were rapidly approaching, and she was finally qualified to enter due to her performance and the Young Flyer's Competition. She had to be in perfect condition, as the Wonderbolts only held one audition every five years. Rainbow had worked her whole life for this chance, and she sure as hay wasn't going to wait five more years
Dash took a bite of her dandelion-oat sandwich and stared blankly at the wall of her cloud-home for a while. It was a nice wall; clouds sure did make nice homes. They were soft, reliable, and inviting. Pity that unicorns and earth ponies were cursed with cold, hard wooden and concrete buildings.
She shook her head, 'Ugh, I'm doing it again. Focus, Rainbow. Tomorrow I need to work on my sprints, then--' Her thoughts were interrupted as she swallowed. A burning sensation bit through her throat and into her nostrils. Strange, she hadn't felt that since...Rainbow froze.
Maybe it was just a once-off thing, but she had to know for sure. After a moment, she took another tentative bite and swallowed. Same feeling. It was that bittersweet feeling that she would occasionally get back in flight school. It was an omen. It meant she would have an excuse to skip a few days of boring lectures, but it also meant she would have to spend those days in her dorm.
A sore throat. It almost always acted as a precursor to a cold. 'You have got to be kidding me. Two straight years of perfect health and my body picks now to get sick. Bucking awesome.' she thought with an irritated groan.
She sighed and dropped the sandwich on a table. Whatever the case, she wouldn't let something as trivial as a cold, if it even was a cold, distract her from her training. Least of all the Wonderbolts Auditions. It might just nothing anyway. Just a side-effect of being too tired from all of that training.
She slumped back deeper into the sofa.
Dash perked her ears up, she could've sworn she heard something outside. Whatever, or whoever it was, they would have to wait until morning. She was too exhausted to even consider opening her eyes, let alone investigate the disturbance. She rolled over in the sofa, trying in vain to get comfortable in her irregular sleeping spot. Something was pressing against her head, but she couldn't be bothered to move it.
“Rainbow Dash!” A voice called from outside. She definitely heard it this time, and she tried to ignore it. Who in their right mind would be calling her in the middle of the night? Didn't they realize that even the coolest of ponies need their sleep too?
“Rainbow Dash!” The voice called again. Though the voice was distant, it was still loud enough to make Rainbow's ears ache. The aching spread through her head, somehow making whatever it was that was pressing against it feel a bit heavier.
'Confound it all.' Rainbow cursed to herself. She sure as hay wasn't going to be able to sleep now. She opened her eyes, instantly regretting it. A barrage of light seared into her eyes like a thousand tiny needles, burrowing deep into her brain. The pressure on her head increased tenfold, she could almost feel her skull crack under the strain. The morning had come. She tried opening her eyes again, slowly. The pain trickled through, but she was able to bear it after a few moments. She began climbing to her hooves, noticing that her joints were aching as well. There was no doubt about it. She was getting sick.
“Rainbow Dash! I know yer up there! Come out or Ah'll find a way up there m'self!” The voice called again, the accent clearly giving away its owner. Rainbow stumbled drowsily towards her door, absentmindedly unlatching the cloudbolt and stepping outside. The sunlight intensified, searing once again into her already tender eyes. Squinting as tightly as her eyes would allow, she peeked over the side of the cloud.
“Hey Applejack, what's up?” Rainbow asked, surprised by the gruffness of her own voice.
“Rainbow! What in Equestria are ya doin' in there? D'ya have any idea what time it is? I know yer big event is comin' up soon, but this is ridiculous!” Applejack convicted.
Rainbow began to register her surroundings. The sun was high in the sky, she could feel it beating down on her from above. She had overslept. A lot.
“It's past high noon an' you haven't even started on yer cloud buckin! M'apples won't grow under clouds, Dash!”
“Yeah... Sorry about that, I must have overslept.. I'll go get those clouds bucked in ten seconds flat...” Rainbow said groggily, confused as to how she'd managed to sleep far into the afternoon while still being dead tired.
“Aw, forget the clouds. We're gonna be late if we don't leave now.”
Rainbow twisted her face in confusion. “Late? Late for what?”
Applejack seemed caught off-guard by Rainbow's question, almost like she wasn't expecting it to arise “Uh, Ah mean, Pinkie Pie wanted to talk to you-- uh, us over at Sugarcube Corner. She mentioned something about, uh, pastries. Yeah. Pastries. Eatin' Pastries!” She beamed with a wide, fake grin.
Rainbow couldn't help but smirk while she glided down to the ground. Applejack was the element of honesty, and she couldn't make it any more obvious. She was, bar none, the worst liar in all of Equestria. She was up to something, and rest assured, it wasn't about eating pastries. Nevertheless, Dash was intrigued and decided to play along.
“Alright, but I can't stay for long. I've got traini-- hmpf!” Dash stumbled a bit as she touched the ground, her joints felt weak and cumbersome. Applejack, of course, took notice.
“You alright there Best Young Flyer?”
“I'm fine.” Rainbow lied, somewhat irked by Applejack's sarcasm.
“Y'sure? Ya look like Big Macintosh did after he tried to finish an entire barrel of hard apple cider by 'mself.”
“I said I'm fine! Let's go.”
---
Twilight mused at the sight before her. Decorations and streamers hung from every possible nook and cranny; the tables were filled to the brim with pastries, cakes, punch and confectionery. The whole building was packed with ponies, all of whom seemed to be having a great pre-surprise celebration. Pinkie Pie was a master of parties indeed. The pink pony was bouncing around, singing one of her signature songs with her usual, over-the-top gusto. The anticipation of the upcoming Surprise-Good-Luck-Rainbow-Dash-at-the-Wonderbolt-Auditions-Party was weighing on all of them.
Today would be the day, Twilight had resolved. It would be the perfect opportunity to pull Rainbow aside and finally let her know. The feelings inside were tearing her apart for far too long. She had to get them out, and get an answer. A simple yes or no would be so much better than living in a constant state of unknowing.
Fluttershy tapped her on the shoulder. The shy pony had 'volunteered' for lookout duty. “Um... Twilight.. Excuse me.. Sorry to interrupt but... I think you should know... They're coming.. I think..”
“They're coming! Everypony get to your positions!” Twilight bellowed.
Ponies scrambled this way and that, hiding under, over and inside anything in sight. The lights were quickly shut out, and the music stopped. Twilight quickly hid herself behind one of the counters, next to Rarity. Even the exquisite white unicorn looked excited for the upcoming celebration, seeing as though she didn't complain about sitting on such a dirty floor.
Muffled voices were soon heard outside, growing clearer as the two ponies neared.
“Alright Applejack, what's up? I know this whole pastry thing is a load of horseapples.”
“Uh, what makes y'say that?”
“This place isn't even open.”
“Sure it is! Just take a look inside”
“Why? Aren't you coming?”
“Uh, yeah. After you. I mean, my leg is broken. Uh, fractured. Sprained. I need you to open the door.” Twilight couldn't help but bring a hoof to her face. She knew tasking Applejack of all ponies to collect Rainbow Dash 'discreetly and without notice' was a terrible idea.
The door creaked open, and Rainbow stepped into the dark parlour.
Every light in the room suddenly ignited, “SURPRISE!!!” The ponies cheered in unison, cheering and clopping their hooves.
Rainbow recoiled at the sudden bombardment of sound, dropping to her flank and clamping her hooves to her ears while letting out a sharp cry.
Half of the ponies in the room fell silent, and the other half burst out in laughter. None of them were expecting the infamous Rainbow Dash of all ponies to react in terror to a simple surprise. Twilight and Fluttershy ran over to their cringing friend.
“Rainbow Dash! I'm so sorry. We didn't mean to scare you like that,” Fluttershy coaxed. Slowly, Rainbow released her ears and opened one eye, then two.
“Hey, everypony...” She began to climb back to her hooves with some help from a hopelessly apologetic Fluttershy.
Rainbow's manner genuinely concerned Twilight. It wasn't like her to pull a Fluttershy when surprised. In fact, Rainbow's wings would usually always explode outwards when something exciting occurred. Something was wrong. Before she could say anything, however, an ever boisterous Pinkie Pie was on the scene.
“Come on Dashie! Turn that frown upside down! It's time for a PARTY!” Rainbow's eye visibly twitched. “And not just any party! It's a super special Surprise-Good-Luck-Rainbow-Dash-at-the-Wonderbolts-Auditions Party! We know you can do it! You're the best and fastest flier in all of Equestria!”
Rainbow seemed to perk up a little with the last comment, regaining a bit of her regular, chesty pose. “Thanks Pinkie. Thanks everypony, this is... great.” Her voice was rough and laboured.
“Then... Let's party!” Pinkie squealed, bursting into song from which instrumentals came from nowhere in particular. The ponies quickly began their celebrations; eating, drinking, dancing, talking and laughing.
The three of them watched Pinkie for a few moments before Fluttershy turned to Rainbow. “Are you okay? You seem a little strange today. Not that it's a bad thing. You look nice.. Sorry.”
“I'm fine. I'm just a bit tired I guess.”
Twilight opened her mouth to press Fluttershy's question further, but was immediately cut-off again, this time by a fulminating Rarity. “Rainbow, darling! You look simply dreadful! Your mane is all frazzled! You look like you haven't slept in days!
“I'm too busy training to care about how I look. I'll catch up on sleep after I win.” Her bravado was accompanied by a swooping motion with her hoof, which was quickly retracted it with a grimace.
“That is no excuse for such unfabulousness and you know it!”
“Oh yeah?”
Twilight trotted off, this argument could last hours. Besides, it would give her some more time to mentally prepare herself.
The party went on as planned for around two hours, though she noticed Rainbow wasn't nearly as lively as she normally was at such events. Twilight found herself pacing anxiously around the room, fighting with herself in an interior monologue. 'Alright Twilight. You can do this. Just ask see her outside and tell her the truth. I can't do this. Yes I can, I have to. She'll just say no. But there's always a chance. Maybe I should ask her after the auditions, when she isn't so busy. No, I can't wait that long. I'm being selfish. Confound it. Just go.' Twilight took a few deep breaths and glanced around for Rainbow, but she as nowhere to be found. Pinkie Pie and Applejack were at one of the tables stuffing back ridiculous amounts of food.
“Hey girls, have either of you seen Rainbow?” Twilight inquired as she trotted up to them.
“Yep.” Applejack responded concisely as she devoured a donut.
Twilight sighed, “Recently? Like in the past five minutes?”
“Oh! I have! I got her to eat one of my famous cupcakes! Made with my special ingredients! I don't think she liked it very much though. Or maybe she just had to use the bathroom real bad! It's a mystery!” Pinkie said excitedly before resuming her unending buffet of rather unhealthy food.
Twilight trotted off, trying her best to not think too much about what she was about to do in fear of losing her nerve. 'Just tell her how I feel about her. No big deal'
She waited outside of the swingdoor entitled 'MARES' for quite some time. She wanted to be sure to intercept Dash before anypony else got to her. Eventually, however, impatience got the best of her. She needed to do this before she lost the dwindling nerve she still possessed. She opened the door and trotted inside, gasping a little as she found Rainbow Dash stooped over the sink, coughing in between dry heaves.
“Rainbow!”
“Ugh, hey Twilight.” Rainbow groaned before beginning another short coughing spell.
“Wow, I didn't think Pinkie's cupcakes were so volatile. Are you alright?”
Dash pushed herself away from the sink and started for the exit. “Yeah. I think I'm gonna go home and start training. Tell Pinkie I said thanks for the party.”
This was her chance. “Uh. Hey, how about I walk you home?”
“Sure. Whatever floats your hay.”
The two mares left the still lively party and walked in silence for some time. The normally talkative Rainbow Dash seemed to have other things on her mind, and her usual arrogant pose had deflated. She also seemed to grimace with every hoofstep she took. It was odd, but Twilight couldn't blame her. The audition she'd been waiting for her whole life was finally just around the corner. Twilight wracked her mostly socially-inept mind for some sort of conversation starter.
“So, you must be really stressed about the audition in a couple days.” she tried.
“Huh? No way. I know I'll win. I'm the fastest flyer in all of... um.. Equestria,” Dash boasted with the least amount of gusto Twilight had ever witnessed.
“Oh really? Then what's up with your behavior? It's not like you to freak out like that.”
“I was just surprised, that's all.”
Twilight stopped mid-trot. “That's a load of horseapples and you know it. You never cower like that. Tell me the truth.”
“W-well to be honest, I haven't been feeling that great today. My head kinda hurts when there's a lot of noise.”
“What? Why didn't you say so earlier?” It was so obvious now. How could she have not noticed?
“I didn't want to spoil the party for anypony. Especially not Pinkie Pie. She puts a lot of effort into those things.” Rainbow admitted.
“I'm sure she would have understood.”
“Pinkie? Understand? Her fix for everything is more parties and more cupcakes.”
Twilight couldn't help but give a brief giggle. “Yeah, I guess you're right”
It wasn't long before the duo arrived at the patch of field below Rainbow's looming cloud-home. 'It's now or never, Twilight. Just do it you stupid egghead.'
“Hey, um, Rainbow. There's something I need to tell you. I've been putting it off for far too long.”
“Huh?”
'Just go. Stop Thinking. Just go.' Twilight trotted up close to her cyan-coated friend and planted a kiss directly on her lips without a moment's hesitation. Sure Rainbow was sick, but she didn't care. Besides, actions always spoke louder than words. That's what her books said, anyway.
Rainbow stood with a look of shock on her face for a short time, gazing at Twilight through watery eyes. She looked like she wanted to say something, but her expression quickly changed into one of disgust and repulsion. She almost looked like she was going to be sick.
The pegasus pony abruptly launched into the sky, leaving a hurt and confused unicorn in her wake.
---
Rainbow was freezing. The cool chill of the day was amplified as it blew past her soaking wet body. It wouldn't be so bad, she supposed, but the stench of the bile she slept in made her want to retch all over again. She probably would, too, had there been anything left in her stomach.
She had been drifting in and out of consciousness since she had passed out on the floor after returning from the party. Rainbow rolled over, and her sides screamed in agonizing protest. She wanted nothing more than to fall back asleep to escape the pain, but the Auditions were starting soon. A gander at the clock indicated merely three hours until they began. She'd been lying there for fifteen hours.
This would be a fight won with determination and nothing else. Rainbow was a tough pony, but she realized this would be a struggle of a lifetime. In the end though, it will be worth it. Her lifetime had been filled with dreams of becoming a Wonderbolt. Dreams of this very day. A chance to prove herself once at for all. If only it wouldn't hurt so much.
'One hoof. Two hooves. Push. Ow, slow down. Almost there. Good. Now for the back hooves. Don't lose balance. Just a little further.'
After a tremendous effort, Dash was finally on her rickety hooves. Her vision was splintered. The world drifted in and out of focus, its colours distorted and erratic. The inside of her cloud-house seemed to churn and swivel on its axes. She stumbled around on her way to one of her household rainclouds, pain wracking her every hoofstep. Fire filled her lungs with each breath she took.
Rainbow gritted her teeth before releasing a powerful, upwards buck; releasing a sprinkle of rain from the overhead raincloud. Her front hooves buckled under the strain, causing her to plough face-first into the cloud below. The normally soft-feeling cloud felt like a rock as she collided with it, evoking a sharp pain to blast through her head. Though her mouth was closed, fluid was somehow filling her mouth. She tried to spit it out, but the red water kept on flowing. It burned her tongue.
She lay motionless under the cloud for what seemed like hours. Each drop of rainwater impaled her, each stinging like a tiny needle. She desperately wanted to crawl away, but she needed to get the vomit our of her coat. She couldn't even begin to imagine anything more embarrassing than meeting the Wonderbolts smelling the way she did.
After the vast majority of the vomit had been cleaned away, Rainbow once again struggled to her hooves and headed towards the door. A cough tugged at her throat, begging to be let out. She tried to stifle it, but it was persistent. A wheeze escaped her lips, followed by a series of hacking coughs. Each one rattled her brain, making her head feel as though it would explode under the excruciating pressure. She dropped to her flank once more, unable to stand any longer.
The coughing fit lasted a long while before she was able to recover and come back to her senses. Her head hurt more than ever now, the headache seemed to grow with every passing second. She crawled towards the door on her belly, deciding it best not to stand up just to fall down again.
Thankful that she didn't lock the door, she was able to nudge it out of the way with her nose and crawl outside. The sunlight burned as usual, but squinting seemed to help a bit.
The bones in her wings cracked as she lifted them into the air for takeoff.
'I guess I'll have to win on an even playing field.' She thought with a smug grin.
---
Beep Beep Beep
A deep breath filled Rainbow Dash's lungs as consciousness began to return. She was lying on something soft, but not quite as plumose as a regular cloud. Something was wrapped around her, radiating a soft, comforting warmth. A fleecy pillow was at her head, enveloping it in a delicate embrace. She had no idea where she was, and she didn't really care. It had been a long time since she'd felt so snug and cozy, wrapped in a soft embrace of linen. Her own blankets would always fall through the clouds of her home, so she had long since given them up.
Beep Beep Beep
If only that bucking beeping would stop. What was that anyway? Maybe she should open her eyes and investigate. No, that would ruin everything. It felt too good to just lie there. She'd just have to get used to it; but it was just so annoying. It reminded her of those machines in hospitals that kept track of a pony's breathing.
A hospital.
Memories of the past week returned with a flash. The sickness, the race, the pain, the kiss. Rainbow opened her eyes, finding a set for four whitewashed walls greeting her. Instruments and medical appliances filled the room, with an ever cliche IV drip stationed right beside her. She was tightly tucked into a hospital bed, though her forehooves stuck out and were wrapped in some sort of white bandaging. Half-inflated balloons inscribed with 'Get Well Soon!' were scattered throughout the room, accompanied by copious bouquets of flowers, cards and stuffed animals.
A male, brown unicorn pony stood near the doorway, levitating a clipboard while writing something down. He didn't seem to notice her waking up. She shuffled a bit in her bed, trying to sit up. Something felt different. Something looked different. Was that pain all a dream?
After a short while, the unicorn took a short glance upwards before returning to his notes. “Ah, you're awake. Good.” His booming voice carried a sense of gentle authority. “You just missed your friends.”
Rainbow cleared her throat to ensure she could still talk, and was pleasantly surprised when she noticed her throat was no longer a blazing inferno of agony. “H-how long have I been out?”
“Three weeks.”
Rainbow gagged, “three weeks?”
The doctor began to walk towards her bedside, levitating his clipboard and pen to a nearby table. “I would count yourself lucky. It very well could have been much longer.”
Rainbow stared blankly at the doctor for a moment as the words sank in. A new desire crept into her mind: a desperation to stand up and fly away, but her bandaged forelegs wouldn't move. “My legs...”
“Were broken when you fell. But that should be the least of your worries,” the doctor said as he produced a stethoscope and began pressing the cold endpiece against her chest.
Rainbow watched him for a moment, gasping as a horrifying thought grazed her mind. “Did ... Did I lose the race?”
The unicorn looked up and glared at Rainbow before answering, “I don't know anything about a race, but I can assure you that something much more serious than a trivial race is at hoof.”
“Try me.”
“Miss Rainbow Dash, as you probably already know, you are not in adequate physical shape. And I don't mean fitness.”
Her mind flashed back once again to the days previous. “Well, y-yeah, but I feel fine now.” It was true, too. Her previous afflictions had completely subsided, and her body seemed to be in perfect physical condition. Minus her forelegs, of course.
“You feel fine now, but it won't last. We've used our strongest magic and healing techniques to stop the pain and relieve many of the side-effects caused by this... Ordeal.”
Rainbow could feel herself beginning to shake. She wasn't sure what the doctor was getting at, but she knew it was bad. “W-what's wrong with me?”
"Perhaps I should let you get some rest before we move on."
"No. I need to know. Please."
The doctor sighed as he removed the stethoscope and placed it on a nearby tray. “Miss Rainbow Dash, you are undergoing an unexplained physical phenomena. The circumstances of your case are incredibly rare, even unheard of. The symptoms of this event are far from over, though we were able to slow them down.”
“W-what... What are you saying?”
“What I'm saying is that your body is shutting down. It's decaying from the inside out and there isn't anything we can do about it. Miss Rainbow Dash, you are dying. I'm so sorry.”
|
Thyrai
|
1006
| 2 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Rainbow Dash,Twilight Sparkle,Dark,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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Decay
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With the time she has left, Rainbow seeks what is truly important before moving on
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complete
| 790 | 28 |
<p>With the time she has left, Rainbow Dash seeks what is truly important in life before moving on.</p>
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teen
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2012-10-19T06:22:26+00:00
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2013-05-05T22:55:33+00:00
| 25,682 |
Decay
Part Two – The Only Moment We Were Alone
Thyrai
Live Reading by lk12lk21
Rain crashed against the window in unrelenting droves. It was the perfect night for a storm. While most citizens of Ponyville were fast asleep at such a time; the two equine figures within the Ponyville Library were far from slumber. A cyan pony lie sprawled on her back atop a star-printed bed, her limbs held firmly down with powerful magic. Her eyes were wide in a sort of shock.
A unicorn lazily sauntered up to the bed, delicately placing a hoof upon the wriggling pegasus. She ran it down from the top of her captive's chest down to her haunches, pressing down slightly on what she found there. The pinned pony responded with a high-pitched groan. Grinning, the purple pony climbed on top, locking their bodies together in a sensual embrace. She leaned in closer and gave the cyan pony a long kiss.
As their lips parted, the magic restraining her prisoner's mouth faded away. The victim coughed and gagged as she desperately tried to refill her lungs. “P-Please Twilight...” The cyan pony managed through her heavy panting, tears had begun forming in her eyes. “What’s your problem? This... This isn’t funny anymore!”
Twilight giggled as she brought a hoof down hard upon the hapless pony's snout, giving a sickening crunch as it snapped. The pegasus yelped loudly as her blood painted her captor a new shade of deep red.
The unicorn gasped as her expression changed to one of rage. “Rainbow! Look what you've done! Now I'll have to take a bath because of you!” Twilight slid herself off of the pegasus, then levitated the her prisoner up before ruthlessly slamming her down on the hardwood floor. Rainbow screamed in agony, but was stopped by a hoof to the neck.
Rainbow's eyes grew wider still with terror, “... I can’t .. breathe..” she choked as her body quaked in tremendous pain. Tears continued to flow from her eyes as she writhed around on the blood-drenched floor.
Twilight erupted into fit of laughter. “Don’t worry, you won’t have to for much longer.”
The unicorn beamed as she produced a small knife and levitated it in front of her. Dash's eyes bulged as she let out another gut-wrenching scream. The hysterical pony struggled with all of her might against Twilight’s hold, but to no avail. She was able to effortlessly keep Rainbow firmly grounded with her magic. A savage grin appeared on Twilight's face.
One final blood-curdling wail broke through the monotony of the stormy night.
---
Twilight was up in a shot, screaming at the top of her lungs. It took her a long moment to realize she was back in her library. Another nightmare. She brought her head to her hooves and sobbed quietly for a long while. She should have been used to them by now, as sleep without the horrible dreams was becoming a distant memory.
The nightmares began when Dash fell into a coma from her fall. They weren't so bad at first. In fact, they were bearable. But ever since Celestia's last visit, they seemed to grow worse with every passing day. Each one more sadistic than the last. Each ebbing away at her sanity one night at a time.
As Twilight began to collect her thoughts, she noticed that her body was drenched in sweat from head to hoof. The book she'd been sleeping on had numerous pages torn and ripped from its bindings. Normally she would have kicked herself for such an unforgivable sin to one of her beloved tomes, but they seemed so unimportant now.
“Twilight?” A voice from behind called.
Twilight instinctively wiped the tears from her eyes. “Oh, Spike. Did I wake you again? I'm sorry.”
“Another nightmare?” She felt the baby dragon attempt to give her a comforting hug.
“... Yeah.” She kept her eyes locked on the book before her.
“Hey... Maybe you should get out of the library. How about visiting Rainbow? Doctor Essall said she might be awake any day now.”
Twilight absentmindedly rose and trotted up to one of the mostly-depleted bookcases, levitating a book from the shelf. “I will sometime later. I just... I can't sit around and do nothing while... while...” her voice trailed off as lump in her throat prevented her from continuing. The last thing she wanted was to burst into tears in front of her young assistant.
Spike hesitated for a moment, but decided to speak up anyway, “but.. What about what Celestia said?”
His question was answered by a glare. “I... I have to try.”
“But, I mean. Celestia has been around for thousands of years and--”
“Spike!” The anger in Twilight's voice was unmistakable, but her tone turned, “Please. Just let me try.”
---
Beep Beep Beep
Rainbow Dash awoke slowly and did her best to sit up in her bed. She did her best to rub the grog from her eyes with her casted forehooves, wishing she would have had something other than that annoying beeping machine to wake up to. She desperately wanted to get up and smash it to bits as each consecutive beep irritated her more and more. The machine was taunting her; reminding her of what the doctor had said the night before. Each beep counting down to the inevitable.
Beep Beep Beep
“I know! Stop it! Shut up! Leave me ALONE!” She screamed, feeling a familiar warm wetness slid along her already hot cheeks. Pressure welled up in her throat and in her eyes. It rapidly became overwhelming, and she couldn't hold it back any longer. A whimper escaped her lips, blooming into a fit of heaving and sobbing.
Unable to stop, she cried into her pillow for what seemed like hours before she felt something nudge against her flank. “Rainbow Dash?” It was a calm, feminine voice.
“G-g-go a-away.”
“Please...” The figure gently prodded her shoulder.
Rainbow bit back her tears and resisted the urge to lash out at whoever it was. She was glad she did, as she was greeted by none other than the kind face of Nurse Redheart when she turned around. The white mare wore an expression of the purest sympathy and heartache.
Dash sniffled, “W-what do you w-want?
“I just... You seem like.. I thought that maybe you'd want to talk?”
Rainbow dropped her head back to the pillow. “No...”
The nurse looked like she was about to burst into tears herself. Dash almost wished she would. It would serve her right for poking her nose where it shouldn't be. After a short while, Redheart spoke up again, “are you feeling alright?”
Was she trying to be sympathetic or was she really that dumb? “Fine. Never been better,” Rainbow answered through clenched teeth.
The nurse sat for awhile before trying again.“Is there anything you need?”
“Yeah. I need you to to leave me alone.”
“I was just wond--”
“Get lost!” Rainbow was yelling now, and almost surprised herself with the sheer volume and spite within her voice. A twinge of remorse brushed her conscience.
The nurse recoiled a bit with the sudden outburst, “sorry.” Redheart slouched back a bit before withdrawing something from under the bed. “Somepony dropped this off for you.” Rainbow felt something flop against the foot of her bed, but refused to look at whatever it was. Instead, she rolled over in her bed, turning her back on her.
Undeterred, the nurse spoke up once again. “Your friends should be visiting soon. They come every day for hours, you know. They... They really love you. They're going to be so happy you're awake.”
“Yeah. Whatever.”
Nurse Redheart stopped by the door. “I'll be back, okay? Don't hesitate to call if you need anything.”
Rainbow waited in silence as the nurse left the room and closed the door. Slowly, she looked at the gift at the end of the bed, immediately closing her eyes when she saw it. It was a blue and yellow uniform, topped with a pair of high-grade goggles.
Was it sympathy? Did they know? Crashing into the ground and breaking two bones surely wasn't a part of the audition. Or were they so impressed with her perseverance that they gave it to her anyway? Regardless, it left a bitter taste in her mouth. It felt was like a slap in the face. They gave her a uniform to fly. A token of pride, of freedom. But here she was trapped in the hospital.
Her whole life had been spent working for no other purpose than to become a Wonderbolt. She had dreamed of the day she would receive this uniform since she was a filly, and now it finally belonged to her. Her life's greatest goal was at last achieved. But she still felt empty.
Her eyes drifted to a pile of flowers, cards and balloons that littered a good portion of the room. Normally, she would have scoffed at how uncool it was to have so much sappy junk everywhere. Somehow, it didn't seem to matter so much anymore. Her gaze fixed on a photograph somepony had placed on one of the nightstands. It was a candid shot of her and her five friends in Canterlot castle the night they had defeated Discord. Celestia had organized a huge celebration just for them. Pinkie had one of the goofiest smiles Dash had ever seen; Applejack and Rarity looked like they were in the middle of an argument with eachother again, and Fluttershy was on the far corner of the shot, hiding as much of her face as possible with her hair. Then, there was Twilight. The egghead had such a beautiful smile. And that purple mane with that infernal streak of pink hair.
A small smile crept its way onto Rainbow's face as well.
---
It was a week after Rainbow's crash, and she was still asleep. It was driving Twilight more insane than the time she ran out of ideas for her letter to the Princess. Speaking of which, the Princess had set up an abrupt and 'informal' meeting with her today. The letter sounded serious, but then again, all of her letters did. There was just something about this one that didn't quite feel right.
The hours went by in the hospital as she awaited Celestia's arrival. She found that she couldn't take her eyes off of the cyan pony as she took in deep breaths, then exhaled. It may be bizarre, Twilight supposed, but the mere sight of the mare of her dreams in a peaceful slumber was enough to make her heart melt all over again. Temptation arose to trot up to her a kiss her on the forehead, but the pegasus' previous reaction led her to the decision that it might not be entirely appropriate.
It was nearly nightfall before the door opened, and Princess Celestia entered. “Twilight, I'm so sorry I'm late.” Her words sounded less eloquent than usual, as if she had let her formality slip away. There was also something different about how the Princess was standing. Her typically regal and self-important pose seemed much more reserved. Her head hung lower than usual, and her mane no longer shimmered with magic. It was disconcerting, to say the least.
Twilight stepped off of the cushion and bowed. “Are you alright, Princess? If you don't mind me saying, you don't look so well.”
“I'm fine. Please, will you sit down with me?” The fact that Celestia was avoiding eye contact with her sent a chill straight to her bones.
“S-sure?” Twilight sat back down, and was soon joined by Celestia. Silence ensued for a few agonizing moments. Something was dead wrong. “Was there... something you needed to talk me about?”
“Yes.” Celestia took a long moment to mentally prepare herself. “It's... It's about Rainbow Dash.”
Twilight's heart sank like a stone. She didn't need to be a smart pony to know where the Princess was going. “No... No no no no..” Twilight backed herself into the wall, as if Celestia was about to attack her. She couldn't feel her breath, but she knew she was hyperventilating. Tears began to stream down her face. Her mind turned to muck, and soon the only noises she could make were a frenzied sobs. This all had to be a terrible dream.
Though she couldn't see through her tear-blinded eyes, she felt Celestia kneel down and hug her tightly. Twilight cried for what seemed like hours while the alabaster alicorn wordlessly held her in a firm, comforting embrace. The princess stroked the back of her mane, just like her mother used to do when she was a filly.
---
The view of the falling sun from the window told Rainbow that the day was nearly at its end. Despite spending three weeks in a coma, she was still exhausted enough to sleep through the entire day. Sleep had a sort of mercy about it though, it took her mind off of things and seemed to calm her down. She stared out the window for a while before hearing a collective gasp through the thick hospital door. Those voices sounded familiar. Intrigued, she strained to hear what they were saying.
“Awake!? Dashie's awake?” A voice squealed.
“Yes, but do be careful with her. Three weeks of a coma is hard on the body, especially when combined with her previous condition; of which I'm certain you are all aware.” .The mere voice of the doctor evoked unnerving memories of the previous night. She tried her hardest to will away the leering anamnesis, but his tactless words once again blistered at the back of Rainbow's mind.
“Yeah, we are. Can we go see her now?”
“By all--” The door flung open and collided with the adjacent wall with a loud, dull crack. A effulgent Pinkie Pie stood in the doorway, brandishing a rather hefty load of new balloons. Applejack and Rarity stood behind her, looking slightly shocked. “...Means.”
“Dashie! It's about time you woke up, you sleepyhead! Do you know how many balloons I've had to refill for you? A lot! That's how many!” Pinkie's facade of cheeriness was paper thin; her voice was distraught and a tear dribbled down one of her cheeks. Even her hair looked halfway deflated from its usual poofy state.
Rainbow tried to give a small grin, “there wasn't a whole lot I c--” she was cut off by the charging pink pony, who had dropped her balloons and pounced on her; entangling her in the most tenacious bearhug she'd ever experienced. It wasn't long before she felt tears drench her shoulder.
“Hey... Be careful with the casts,” Dash gasped through the ferocious constriction, but her trembling friend didn't seem to pay any mind. Rarity and Applejack had trotted inside, followed by a previously unseen Fluttershy. They were all smiling, but the pain in each was obvious.
Applejack was the first to speak up, just as stoic as ever. “Gosh darnit, RD. Ya scared me half 'ta death when y'fell like that.”
“Heh, sorry.”
Rarity and Fluttershy circled around the crying party pony and each took a turn giving Rainbow a nuzzle. “It's so wonderful to see you awake again. We were so dreadfully worried.”
“Um... Are you okay? I mean, feeling alright?” Fluttershy's hopelessly caring nature was just as bad as Redheart's.
“Yeah.”
Pinkie began to pull herself together, and released Rainbow with a sniffle. “You silly filly. You should have told us you felt so down!”
“If I did, you guys would have pulled me out of the auditions.” Dash thought for a moment, “I will next time, trust me.”
Rarity shot her a glare, obviously unimpressed with her attempt at such humor. “It's a shame Twilight couldn't be here. She hasn't been the same since Celestia's visit. She's been cooped up in that old library for weeks,” Rarity continued, “And the whole incident in the field didn't seem to help, either.”
Rainbow wheezed, “she told you about that!?”
“Well, yes. More less. It was more of an accident, really.” Rarity's eyes stared off into space out for a moment. “But that's a story for another time.”
“B-but it wasn't-- I mean, I didn't want to leave her there. I had to.”
Rarity pressed a hoof to her Rainbow's mouth. “I've heard it a million times, darling.”
Dash wanted to press the issue futher, but arguing with Rarity about social matters was one of the most futile things a pony could do. She decided it best to let let this one go.
Fluttershy turned to the doctor. “Can she... Come back with us?”
“I'm afraid not. Her condition is so unstable that we must keep her monitored at all times. Besides that, the painkilling magic we've used will not last for very long without continued booster doses. I also need to run some tests.”
Pinkie tried next, “Oh please! Please, please, please! We won't be long! Only a few days! Please Doctor Asshole!”
“Doctor Essall,” the stallion corrected indignantly before continuing. “I'm sorry. You and your friends may stay here with her as long as you wish, but I cannot permit her to leave this room.”
“So that's it then? 'Yer just gonna let her rot here? Make her spend her last days in a hospital bed?”
“Hey! Quit talking about me like I'm not here!” Rainbow interjected.
The doctor started towards the door, scribbling something down on his notes. “I'm just doing my job, miss,” he said bluntly as he magicked the door behind him closed.
“Ugh, he is a buckin' asshole,” Applejack fumed, inciting a cringe from Fluttershy at the use of such language. “Sorry, Rainbow. And uh, Fluttershy.”
“It's okay.”
Dash waved a hoof as best as she could with her cast. “Don't worry about it,” she said before a new expression of determination appeared on her face. “But you all know what we have to do now, right?”
---
The lone candle flickered and lapped at the air around it, casting long shadows along the library floors. The sun was going down, but Twilight didn't notice. The blinds were drawn all day long anyway. It wasn't so much the sunlight that bothered her, but the prospect of accidentally looking outside. She couldn't bring herself to look up into the sky anymore. Thoughts and memories of her dying friend seemed to haunt the clouds above Ponyville.
She would find a cure. A spell to take away the abominable necrosis. Even if Celestia wouldn't help her, she would find a way. She had no reason to doubt her teacher – she'd never lied to her before. But Twilight knew that she would never be able to forgive herself if she didn't try. Somewhere, somehow, there might be a way tucked deep within the pages of her books. Sure, there were thousands of spells and remedies for sickness within the pages, but none of them had cures. In fact, disease curing was dismissed as mythology in almost every book she had read. A hint of desperation loomed over her search, as her rather bountiful supply of books was beginning to run out. Even the giant stack of medical and magic volumes 'borrowed' from the Royal Canterlot Library were beginning to run thin.
Twilight levitated a book entitled Advances in Medical Science and Magic from a nearby bookshelf, unintentionally knocking over a rough brown tome. The binding broke on impact, causing its contents to spill out across the floor. It was her old scrapbook.
Intrigued, Twilight levitated some of the contents closer to the candlelight. They were priceless photos of adventures past. There was a photo of the dragon flying away from his home after an encounter with Fluttershy, another of her friends during Winter Wrap-Up, and a few of the disastrous Grand Galloping Gala. One photograph in particular caught her eye, though. It was of Rainbow Dash the day she won the Young Flier's Competition. In all her years, she'd known it was scientifically impossible to smile from ear-to-ear, but leave it to Dash to prove science wrong.
Twilight returned her smile.
---
Applejack pulled her head away from the tall cupboard in the corner of the room. “Hey Rainbow, Look'a here,” she said as she heaved a metal device from the closet and dropped in on the floor.
Rainbow recoiled in horror. “No. No way. There is not a chance in all of Equestria that I'd ever wear that.”
“It's the only way. Y'sure as hay can't walk 'till we get those casts off 'yer legs. Ya can't fly outta here either, unless you break that there window. And the doc's sure to hear that.” Applejack had a point, but Dash couldn't bring herself to even look at the horrid contraption.
“Rainbow, darling. It's the only way. Please.”
“Come on Dashie! It's not that bad! Nopony will see us anyway! We'll be super sneaky!”
Rainbow sighed, they had a point. “Alright. But if I hear anything from any of you about this, you're all going to pay.” Dash said, squirming to the edge of the bed to where Applejack held the device upright. A short push later and she felt herself snugly secured into the most humiliating orientation she could ever imagine.
Thoughts of legless dogs crossed Rainbow's mind as Applejack fastened the buckles in order to anchor it to her body. It was a simple mechanism, consisting of four metal rods, two wheels and an ergonomically designed cushion. It would allow her to roll herself along the ground with her hind legs, the wheels would remove the need for her forelegs. Needless to say, it looked ridiculous.
Applejack took a step back to admire her handiwork, and visibly stifled a laugh with a brief snort. That was forgivable, and expected. Pinkie Pie merely snickered. Her biggest shock came from Fluttershy, who brought her hoof to her mouth to stop her giggling.
“And what are you laughing at!?”
“Nothing! Really. It's... nice...”
Rarity silently closed the door she'd been peeking from and turned around. “Alright, we need to go now before he comes back.” Her eyes widened as she saw Rainbow
The five ponies made haste out the door. That is, after unjamming one of Rainbow's wheels from its frame. Before long, they were off down one of the expansive hallways of the rather unnecessarily-large Ponyville hospital. It was a slow process, as each window had to be ducked and every open door checked for alert staff members. By dumb luck, however, the five ponies were able to remain unseen through the vast majority of the hospital.
Rarity peeked around the corner of the final corridor before the exit. “Uh-oh. We've got a nurse coming straight for us, go back!”
“No can do, we've got a doctor comin' from that'a way.”
“Oh no..”
“Quick! Into the storage closet!” Thankfully, the door was unlocked and the five ponies piled in the dark, cramped space before anypony noticed. Pinkie couldn't help but giggle at the completely misfortunate situation the ponies had gotten themselves into.
“Hey! Get your face out of my flank!”
“Sorry, I didn't mean to.”
“Ugh, it's filthy in here.”
“Shh! Somepony's coming.”
A long silence ensued as the ponies tried to stay as silent and calm as possible, which was, for them, quite a feat. The dull clopping of hooves as they walked past slowly faded away, leaving only silence.
“Are they gone?” Somepony whispered through the darkness.
“Hey Rainbow, check the door”
Rainbow sighed, “I can't, dimwit.”
“Oh, sorry.”
The ponies started as a shimmering blue aura appeared around the doorhandle. The door flung open, revealing none other than Doctor Essall standing in the hallway. He was again writing something down on his clipboard. A few seconds passed before he set down his pen and up at them. “Cute. Alright, now if you'd all please step out of th--”
The doctor was interrupted as a large sack careened off of his forehead, exploding into a shower of baby powder. Blinded, the doctor reared violently and swore loudly.
“Run!” Applejack yelled.
The five made their way as quickly as they could to the exit. Pinkie Pie had to practically drag herself to the door, as her nonstop laughter left her in a state of paralysis. Fluttershy's instictive reaction was to apologize and ask if the doctor was alright, but was quickly yanked away by a sighing Applejack. One of Rainbow's wheels fell off from her erratic jostling, but it was quickly mended with a little help from Rarity's magic.
Laughter accompanied them all the way to the Carousel Boutique. Tears of joy fell from their eyes for the first time in weeks.
The impromtu gathering was met by Pinkie's regular zeal. The ponies recounted stories of their exploits over a large helping of cake that she had produced from nowhere specific. Fluttershy confessed that she was the one who threw the bag of powder, and how terrible she felt for doing so. Applejack slapped her on the back and told her how proud she was of her. Dash cringed as Rarity's industrial-strength scissors sliced through her casts. Thankfully, she was able to keep the tool stable without cutting into her tender legs.
All things considered, it felt like something was missing.
“And... There! Alright darling, how do your legs feel?”
Rainbow tentatively put weight on her hooves. It felt a bit odd, and she wondered how the rest of her body could be betraying her while her legs healed up just fine. “A little sore, but they seem fine.”
“Heeyaw, Ah knew it would work!” Applejack boasted.
Pinkie gasped, “you know what we should do!? We should have a party! We got Dashie out of the hospital! And her legs are all healthy again!”
Rainbow looked down at the floor and subconsciously scratched the back of her leg with a hoof, preparing for what she had to do. “Thanks Rarity. Thanks everypony. But there's somewhere... Somepony I need to see before I go back.”
Fearing her friends, especially Pinkie, would be disappointed, she kept her head down until a white arm wrapped around her. She looked up to see a grinning Rarity. Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy also shared a smile nearby, and Applejack tipped her hat in affirmation, “Yeah. We know. Go ahead, we can have our party later.”
Rainbow waved goodbye and stepped out of the Boutique. She ruffled her wings, preparing for the first flight in a month. A cough escaped her before takeoff, coating her tongue in something metallic in taste. She spat it out, leaving a red stain on the pavement below.
'Looks like I'll have to make this fast.'
---
“Useless!”
Twilight screamed as her magic slingshotted the book she'd been reading across the room, where it collided with one of the bookcases and exploded into a shower of displaced pages. The force of the impact knocked its few remaining books onto the floor and nearly toppled the bookcase itself.
She was a tornado of emotions. It was sort of a mixture if wanting to explode with rage and break down crying at the same time. All of her searching was fruitless. Every single book that had anything to do with powerful magic or medicine in the library was exhausted. All of them failed. She'd failed. Celestia was right.
Tears once again bit at her eyes. “I'm a failure. I'm... I'm just too weak...”
Twilight collapsed on the floor and began to sob once again. Mere seconds passed before a warm body crossed her flank and tugged her close. At first, Twilight suspected she'd awaken Spike again. But the figure was much larger.
“You're not weak, Twilight. You're the strongest pony I know.” A gentle voice whispered. It was female. It was... no.
Twilight opened her eyes, meeting the rose-colored eyes of Rainbow Dash. Dumbfounded and unable to help herself, she leaped at the pegasus, who wrapped her in a warm embrace. “I'm sorry... I'm so sorry.” Twilight cried.
Rainbow hugged her tight while she cried into her shoulder. “You have nothing to be sorry about. It's not your fault. It's not anypony's fault.”
Twilight wept for a long time, but her sobbing eventually came to an end within her friend's calming embrace.
Rainbow slowly released her and climbed to her hooves. “Hey, come on. I want to show you something.”
Dash nudged her up the staircase, past a contentedly-sleeping Spike. She led her out to the deck that branched from the top of the Library. The cool air of the night blew past Twilight's mane as she looked at the sight before her. The stars above shone like a thousands of luminescent lights in the black sky. The moon was full and large, cresting just over the balcony; silhouetting Rainbow in a dark shadow. It was a perfect night.
“It's awesome, isn't it?”
Twilight down beside her friend, “Beautiful.”
The two of them sat down together and gazed in silence. Twilight wondered if she'd remembered the abrupt kiss a month earlier. She didn't blame her for flying away, it's what any sensible pony would have done. The experience had to be one of the most embarrassing moments of her life.
Rainbow eventually turned her gaze from the moon to Twilight. “So...”she began.
'Please don't.'
“Uhm,”
'Oh, dear Celestia.'
“What was that kiss all about anyway?”
Twilight froze. “Y-you... Remember that?”
“Yeah.”
Twilight looked down at the floor. “It just me being selfish. Forget about it.”
She felt a hoof under her chin, gently lifting her face to meet Rainbow's eyes. She wore a mischievous grin, and a bright red blush contrasted against her cyan coat. “I enjoyed it.” The pegasus leaned forward and kissed her on the lips. A hot tingle passed through her body, warming her from head to hooves. It felt good.
Minutes passed until Twilight finally parted lips. “But... Why did you fly away?”
Rainbow stared back at her, looking conflicted. “I uh...” Rainbow looked like she was going to be sick as she replayed the memory in her head. “Erm, that's really not important. But this is.” The cyan mare dropped her head and began kissing Twilight's neck. She couldn't help but give a soft moan as she felt Dash's tongue run along her neck and back up to her lips. She moved closer still and kissed her back.
The two mares lie together in eachother's embrace for the rest of the night before drifting off into a peaceful slumber, both with smiles on their faces.
---
Massive thanks to ambion ([email protected]) for pre-reading this!!
|
Thyrai
|
1006
| 3 |
Main 6,Princess Celestia,Rainbow Dash,Twilight Sparkle,Dark,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Decay
|
With the time she has left, Rainbow seeks what is truly important before moving on
|
complete
| 790 | 28 |
<p>With the time she has left, Rainbow Dash seeks what is truly important in life before moving on.</p>
|
teen
|
2012-11-09T05:31:49+00:00
|
2013-05-05T22:56:12+00:00
| 26,082 |
Decay
Part Three – They Move on Tracks of Never-Ending Light
Thyrai
Live Reading by lk12lk21
The warm morning sun on Rainbow's coat was a pleasing contrast to the chilly dew of the morning. The air carried the sweet smell of spring, welcoming the return of new life to Equestria. Birds chirped and sang from their roosts, and a rich floral aroma from fresh flowers happened by from the breeze. The aged balcony floorboards creaked lightly as she breathed. It would be a perfect day to laze around and wait for the world to go by.
She kept her eyes closed as inched closer to the body in front of her, smirking to herself as pleasant memories of the previous night crept into her mind. Embrace reassumed, she gently stroked a hoof across the purple unicorn's coat. Tendrils of pain rippled through her hoof and into her foreleg. The magic holding her together was fading, and fast.
Rainbow did her best to ignore it by watching Twilight sleep. Her lavender chest lifted and relaxed lightly in blissful slumber. Her coat was much softer than Dash's own, likely because to her less physical occupation. It was almost like gossamer, soft and groomed to near perfection. She wanted to hug her tightly again just like last night, but after a short deliberation, she decided that didn't want to wake her. Not yet, anyway. Just lying with the beautiful lavender unicorn in her forehooves was enough. She never wanted to let her go.
Rainbow moved her muzzle closer the back of Twilight's mane. That very same purple mane she'd obsessed over since she met her. It accounted for many sleepless nights; and of which many left her wide awake in bed, covered in sweat and panting fiercely. She’d had feelings for Twilight for the longest time, and not just because of her looks. The bookworm had a sort of charm to her that drove Rainbow nuts. Truth be told, she was too nervous to ask her out. It was a constant irritation that she wasn't as brave as she thought she was. Admittedly, it was impressive that Twilight had the courage to make the first move. Though she wasn't nearly as socially inept as a certain yellow pegasus, Dash certainly hadn't expected the egghead to be so bold. And such a good kisser.
Her muzzle made contact with the back of Twilight's mane. But something was off. It was matted and sticky with something much thicker than the sudor from last night's affair. Her usually fragrant perfume was dwarfed by a now pungent aroma that made her feel sick all over again. The sensory cacophony drowned the spring air in a disgusting, fetid aura.
Blood.
Rainbow's eyes snapped open, she jumped and reeled back against the tree, her back smacking against the bark with a blunt thunk. Breathing intensified as she looked with disbelief of the sight before her. It wasn't the dew of the morning that soaked them, but a mix of blood and bile. The fluid drenched the entirety of Twilight's back and mane.
Twilight shifted slightly, jerked awake by the sudden movement. “Mmm...Rainbow?”
“I...” Dash began, but no further words came. She remained pressed against the tree as Twilight lazily rolled over and brushed the haze of slumber from her eyes.
“I-I'm sorry...” Rainbow managed, barely audible even to herself. She could feel herself beginning to tear up as anger and embarrassment began to rage inside of her, pulling at her eyes as the furnace of emotion boiled beneath.
“Hunh?”
Twilight turned around on her flank, her eyes growing wide as she saw the blood caked on Rainbow's coat. “what is..?” Her gaze flickered to the blood-drenched floor, and she gasped in horror.
Rainbow slid down the tree and sank down onto her haunches, unable to support herself. “I didn't mean... Twilight... I'm sorry. I'll clean... clean it up.”
Twilight had already jumped to her hooves and had raced over to the pegasus, grabbing her by her withers in desperation. “We need to get to the hospital. Right now.”
Dash's sensitive nerves screamed out in agony at the sudden grapple. Pulling away violently, she gave a sharp yelp as her skull cracked against the unforgiving bark of the tree. Her vision filled with millions of phantasmal stars, distorting the world before her.
Twilight's expression turned to the purest shock, “Dear Celestia, I'm sorry!” Rainbow merely groaned in response, rubbing the new injury with a forehoof. “I'll to send a letter to the doctor, we’ll get you better. Just hold on.”
A resolve appeared in Rainbow's eyes as they locked on Twilight. “No.”
“Wh-?”
“I'm not going back.” Rainbow announced sternly, vainly attempting to cover her mouth with a hoof as she let out a cough. Blood sprayed across her foreleg and dribbled down onto the floor. A bit of blood caught in her throat induced a gag, serving to cause another fit of coughing. Sanguine liquid leaked in a steady stream from Rainbow’s mouth, branching off into several tiny rivers down her chin and spilling out down to her chest and legs. Twilight tried to give some futile assistance, but was pushed away by the hacking pegasus.
“We have to go! Now!”
“No, Twilight!” Rainbow wheezed. “I'm not going to waste away in a hospital bed!”
“They can help you!” Twilight softened. “Please go... for me.”
“We both know I... I don't have much time left.” Rainbow sniffed. “And a hospital isn't going to change anything. Come on, let's get away from here.”
“But I... they can find a way.. to heal you.”
“That's not true and you know it.” Rainbow convicted through gritted teeth. “I don’t care about the pain. I just want to be with you.”
---
Twilight cried for what seemed like hours wrapped in Celestia's embrace. She didn't hold anything back. If somepony heard her hysterical weeping from miles away, she wouldn't care. It felt like nothing else existed except the pain in her heart. In fact, she didn't want anything to exist anymore. The unbearable blaze of emotion rattled her mind so much that she sometimes forgot what she was crying about. Though she tried, she couldn't restrain herself. The whitewashed hospital walls were collapsing in on her, slowly squeezing the life from her body. Suffocating. Unbearable, searing pain.
“No... No, no...”
Through deep sobs, she could only muster that one word from the depths of her wracking mind. A word of false solace. A word she could use to will away the cold grip of reality from her soul; to deny her corporeal existence and dismiss the whole thing as a bad dream. It had to be another nightmare. Only this time, she couldn't wake.
Agonizing time passed as Celestia held her student. Her silence was finally broken once Twilight's sobs began to dissipate into a soft cry. The unicorn began to release her grip slightly. “I'm sorry, Twilight. I'm so sorry.” the princess cooed softly.
“N-No.. Please.. No... She can't be... ”
Celestia's cloudy eyes met with Twilight's own bleary gaze. “I'm sorry Twilight. I'm so sorry.”
Twilight buried her head to the princess's alabaster chest. She couldn't look up. She couldn't look at the dying pegasus. Another surge of emotion rushed through her. She did her best to bite back another flow of tears; taking short, rapid gasps for air. “W-w-will she ever wake up?”
“I... don't know.”
---
Twilight tentatively peered down from the cloud they were perched on. Granted, her magic was powerful, but being a unicorn in the domain of the pegasi still made her uneasy. The expansive horizon included a scene of Ponyville, Canterlot and the infinite reaches of the Everfree Forest splayed out beneath them.
After a short cleanup of themselves and the library, the bullheaded pegasus and reluctant unicorn set off to the outskirts of Ponyville. 'Last night was kinda cool, but you've gotta see this!' Rainbow had said. Her eyes were lit with a burning desire, much like the times she would talk about joining the wonderbolts. Twilight couldn’t turn her down. Not only was Dash absolutely adorable when she wanted something, but she knew she was right. The hospital could only make things worse.
Dash had tried to hide the agony she'd been feeling, but it was all too obvious. She'd winced in pain with each hoofstep she took on the way. She was clearly in desperate needed medical attention, but they both knew Dash would never let go of her pride. As if Twilight hadn't hated herself enough for not being able to cure her, a period of self-loathing pricked at her for not learning any painkilling magic.
“Scared?” Rainbow quipped playfully. Her voice had become scratchy once again.
Twilight retreated back to one of the cloudy bulges, plunking down beside the lovably arrogant pegasus. “I don't think I'll ever get used to it. Heights aren't exactly my area of courage.” Twilight grinned, “last time I was up on a cloud was when you won the Young Flyer's competition. ”
“Oh yeah, that was a snap.” Dash bragged with a nervous shuffle, “I never doubted myself for a second.”
“That was right after the whole incident with Pinkie Pie and the hydra, wasn't it?”
“Heh, yeah. We sure did a lot back then, didn't we? I mean we saved the world. Twice.”
Twilight nodded her head in agreement. “And we crashed a royal party.”
Rainbow giggled. “Yeah, and how about the time Fluttershy totally lost it on that dragon!”
”And the situation with the parasprites, what a mess that was.”
Rainbow gave a contented sigh. “We've had a lot of awesome adventures together. I only wish we could have had more.” Rainbow continued, “you know, I wasted so much time thinking all that counted was how cool I looked to everypony else. Making it to the Wonderbolts was the only thing I wanted to do with my life, but now.. It seems so worthless. All that really matters is who you meet along the way. I guess friendship really is magic after all.”
A small, pained smile found its way onto Twilight's face. “You always were a smart pony deep down, weren't you?”
Dash waved a passive hoof, “yeah, whatever.”
Twilight lowered her head and kissed Rainbow. Her cyan mouth still carried the metallic taste of blood, but she payed no mind. Moving in for an embrace, Dash visibly flinched in pain as their bodies made contact. Twilight recoiled. “Sorry.”
“No, it's fine. Come on.”
“But-” Twilight was cut off as Rainbow hugged her tight and gave her another kiss on the lips. They held it for a long time before they released reluctantly. Twilight lay her head on top of Rainbow's neck in a tender nestle. The two of them remained there alone on their own little cloudy empire, enjoying the mere company of the other as the overhead sun began to wane.
“Hey, Twilight?”
“Yeah?”
“Thanks. For everything.”
---
Ponies that happened by gave shocked and occasionally fearful stares at the goddess and her student as they trotted along the winding country road out of Ponyville. Celestia had decided that sobbing in the hospital room was not going to get them anywhere. Twilight needed some air, anyway. She'd spent the entirety of the week in her library studying, or in the hospital waiting.
Celestia had seemed to regain much of her lost composure as they continued along the path, Twilight suspected she did so as to not create a stir among the citizens. Maybe she did it as preparation, to steel herself for the conversation they both knew was coming. Perhaps both.
They travelled in silence for a long while as they slowly trotted down the rocky dirt path. Twilight took it upon herself to count each of the octangular-shaped stones along the way. Thirty-seven so far. Pointless mental stimulation was a habit she'd developed as a filly. Granted, it didn't serve much of a purpose at all, but at least it helped keep her mind off things.
The sun had already begun set by the time they found themselves in Sweet Apple Acres. Luna's moon slowly crept up on the horizon as they continued, providing vague illumation for the path ahead. The tree branches cast long shadows upon the ground, their convoluted fingers spanning out like a road map to some busy city.
“Twilight...” The princess started finally, “I know what it's like. I know the pain you feel now feels unbearable; like somepony is kicking you in the chest and won't stop. And I know it's even harder because she's still alive.” Twilight felt a tear run along her cheek, but managed to keep herself from breaking down again.
“It's a cruel joke.”
“My student, you must understand that these things happen. We cannot control life, only how we choose to make our way along its journey. Rainbow's flame is going out. Everyone has their time, but hers was far sooner than anyone could have expected. It's beyond tragic, but the only thing we can do is carry on.”
Celestia's words were a burning iron to Twilight's soul. She could feel her face becoming unbearably hot with emotion. “But can't you heal her? Is... Isn't there some kind of magic that can take it away?”
The alicorn's expression darkened. “Magic is powerful, Twilight, but it is not more powerful than death. Believe me when I say that, if I could, I would never go through the suffering of seeing generation after generation of ponies close their eyes for the last time. As much as I wish it were, magic and life are entirely separate energies.”
Twilight sat down, her legs had become too wobbly to stand any longer. Celestia joined her and wrapped a wing around her student, hugging her close. “But there is one other magic. The magic of those who have come before us and the legacy they leave behind. How they've influenced us and made us who we are. Your friends will come and go, but there's always a part of them that stays behind.”
Twilight sniffled as tears rolled down her cheeks once again. “Does... Does it ever get easier?”
Celestia suspired gently. “No. It never does. They say time heals all wounds, and it's true to some extent. Time will heal the some of the sting, but the scar will always remain.” The princess looked up to the moon before continuing, “but I guess that's for the better.”
“W-What do you mean?”
“Scars are a permanent memento of our past. If they heal, their stories are lost.” Celestia continued, “There will always be a place, a scar, in your heart and in the hearts of her friends. The magic of friendship is one that never fades away.”
Twilight leaned in closer her mentor as she stared across the landscape of innumerable apple trees. The moonlight spilled across the valley, bathing the landscape in the pale whiteness of nightfall. The wing wrapped around her offered a tranquil sanctuary from the frigid air, and from her own thoughts.
“Princess, will you stay with me tonight?”
Celestia smiled down at her, “of course I will.”
---
Rainbow laid her head back into the cradle in Twilight's neck, snuggling closer into her forelegs. Her eyes had become dark with illness, the spectral coward of disease was visibly taking a toll on her ravaged body. “What do you think it's like? You know... when you die?”
Twilight lifted her head from the rainbow mane. A tear shimmered in the corner of her eye. “I... are you sure you want to talk about this?”
“Yeah, I'm curious.”
Twilight released a saddened breath. “Well.. To be honest... I don't really know. I don't think anypony does. I’d always thought that it would... be sort of like...” the lump in Twilight’s throat prevented her from finishing. She didn’t want to cry. Not again.
Rainbow's gaze alighted over the horizon, a sincere look of contentedness crossed her eyes. “I always imagined that the lights in the sky would shine and take me home. To a place where I could see my mom and dad again, and where I wouldn't be sick anymore.”
The tear in her eye moments ago finally let go and rolled down Twilight’s cheek. Rainbow didn’t seem to mind the ensuing silence, as she cuddled even closer into Twilight’s embrace. There they stayed, watching the sunset and wishing to be nowhere else in the world.
The field of Equestrian clouds across the skyline had been set ablaze with the the burning redness of the waning sun. The great Equestrian vista shared in the glory of the last rays of its light. Golden orange sun shafts lit Rainbow's face, caressing and illuminating each of her features. She looked completely calm and placid. The sunlight had a way of erasing the pain that was so visible on her face only moments ago. A complete serenity shone from the mare of Twilight's dreams.
Rainbow turned her gaze over the expanse; to the picture-perfect sea of conflagration. “It's awesome, isn't it?”
Twilight leaned forward and kissed her on the forehead. "Yes, it's beautiful.”
Dash smiled as she lowered her rosy eyes to the world for the last time. She was exactly where she wanted to be. The sky had always been, and forever would be her home. She was truly ready to go now. Ready for one final adventure.
“...I love you, Twilight.”
---
Sequel
'till next time,
~ Thyrai
|
wlyteth
|
1007
| 1 |
Applejack,Big Macintosh,Cutie Mark Crusaders,Rainbow Dash,Rarity,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Cloudy Crusades
|
After taking a nap outside Rainbow Dash catches a cold.
|
complete
| 16 | 3 |
<p>Rainbow Dash loves naps, but when she decides to take one in the middle of a storm she gets sick. Will the usually athletic pegasus be able to slow down and get the rest she needs to get better? And what do the Cutie Mark Crusaders have in store for Ponyville's self proclaimed "coolest pony"? </p><p>When I started writing this it was meant as a random comedy but so far it feels more slice of life. Loosely based around the events of the episode "Suited for Success".</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-24T17:32:19+00:00
|
2011-09-24T17:32:19+00:00
| 2,691 |
Rainbow Dash laid back on a cloud and sighed happily. Weather Patrol was fun, but taking naps and practicing new stunts were even better. As she snuggled deeper into the cloud and closed her eyes she imagined what new tricks she would perform once she was part of the Wonderbolts. As she half dreamed she could see it all... the rush of the air around her as she flew, the cheers and gasps of the crowd, the award cerimonies, the... ice cold buckets of water? The dream quickly became a nightmare as Rainbow found herself swimming against the current of a swift river. The water kept pulling her under and getting in her mouth and nose. Panicing she flailed about with her legs and wings until the river pushed her down a waterfall towards some very sharp looking rocks. Before she could try and fly away she landed head first on the rocks and everything went black.
"Is she alright?"
"I've never seen a pegasus fall off a cloud before."
A hoof prodded her ribs and she winced.
"She moved!"
"What do we do?"
Suddenly a loud familiar voice broke through the crowd. "Everypony just give her some room and she'll be fine. Ya'll are stealing the air away with all yer crowdin' and fussin'!" Rainbow Dash could hear the other ponies shuffling around to let the newcomer through before walking away. Opening her eyes a bit she could see a orange blur in front of her. "Hey Applejack..."
"Hey Sugarcube. Lemme help ya up there." Applejack bit into Rainbow's mane and lifted her to her hooves. "You alright? You took quite a tumble off that cloud. WHat were ya thinkin' going to sleep all out in the open with a rainstorm comin?
Rainbow Dash swayed on her hooves for a bit, using Applejack to steady herself. "Thanks AJ, I wasn't expecting that much rain. I thought most of it was supposed to be over yours and the carrot family's farms today, not over Ponyville. What are you doing in town anyways?"
"Ah'm on mah way to Rarity's. all that rain down at the farm gave me an idea fer that high-faltin' dress she's makin me wear to the gala."
"Oh horseapples! I'm supposed to go over there too. Well might as well get it over with."
Rarity was deep in thought when they arrived, apparently trying to fit more stars on a dress than was physically possible. "Howdy Rarity, Dash an I came over like yew asked."
"Oh! Thank goodness! I could certanly use a break from all the stars Twilight asked for. All these Constalations are giving me such a headache." Rarity rubbed her forehead with her hoof and ajusted her glasses. "Now. What new ideas did you bring me?"
Applejack proudly reached into her saddlebags and pulled out a pair of rubber boots. "These are my favorite golashes so I thought they would look mighty nice with my fancied up gala duds."
"Golashes! I couldn't possibly... arrgh... alright golashes are fine. I'll make it work... somehow... This is going to take all day. Rainbow, be a dear and come back tomorrow, I'll be ready for you then."
Rainbow Dash gave a half hearted saluted and flew out of the shop as quick as she could. Anything to put off talking about silly dresses for a while was fine by her. She flew up to try and find a new nap-cloud, but then decided sleeping in her house would be safer. Though it was only a short distance her wings felt very tired. "I guess I need to work a little harder on my training," she said to herself. "But I can do that later, its nap time."
It was the next morning before Rainbow Dash woke up, and the first thing she noticed was that her mouth felt very dry and her blankets were too hot. Wearily she dragged herself to the kitchen for some water. The water tasted terrible and made her thorat feel funny. "Ugh! I better pick up some juice in town today, this stuff is gross." Just talking for a little bit made her want to cough so she decided to just think in her head instead of out loud for the time being. As awful as she felt she made herself go to Rarity's. Flying made her feel tired again so once she reached the ground she went through Ponyville at a slow trot. After what felt like miles the Carosel Boutique finally came into view.
Once she was inside, Rarity was all business. "Alright Rainbow Dash, here is your dress so far, what do you think?"
The dress could have been awesomer but Rainbow didn't really know what to say. "Looks fine Rarity" she said eventually.
"Oh I just know you hate it! Now tell me what do change even though I thought you would just absolutly love it but anything at all I can change, just say the word."
Rainbow just wanted to leave, she was feeling even worse than before and the room felt stuffy. "Could you just... make it cooler?" Rainbow was trying not to start coughing again, every word seemed to scrape her throat. "Is it the color?" Rarity asked. "The color's fine... just make it cooler!"
Rarity asked something else but the heat felt so intense Rainbow couldn't concentrate on her anymore. "It needs to be about 20% cooler." Rainbow Dash mumbled before sliding to the ground in exhaustion.
"I suppose it could do with a bit more ventilation..." Rarity mused, not noticing her unconsicous friend. "I just need to get my sissors. Be back soon darling!"
Shortly after Rarity left three fillies wearing capes snuck into the dressmaking room. The bright orange one stopped short and the other two bumped into her. "Hey! What did you stop for Scootaloo, we have to be quick before my big sister gets back." Scolded Sweetie Belle.
"Shhh! Look!" All three crusaders stared at the sleeping blue pegasus. "What's wrong with her?" Applebloom asked. Sweetie Belle ran over and put a hoof on Rainbow's forehead. "She all hot and sticky, I think she's sick." Instantly the three fillies looked at each other and yelled.
"CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS DOCTORS YAY!"
|
wlyteth
|
1007
| 2 |
Applejack,Big Macintosh,Cutie Mark Crusaders,Rainbow Dash,Rarity,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Cloudy Crusades
|
After taking a nap outside Rainbow Dash catches a cold.
|
complete
| 16 | 3 |
<p>Rainbow Dash loves naps, but when she decides to take one in the middle of a storm she gets sick. Will the usually athletic pegasus be able to slow down and get the rest she needs to get better? And what do the Cutie Mark Crusaders have in store for Ponyville's self proclaimed "coolest pony"? </p><p>When I started writing this it was meant as a random comedy but so far it feels more slice of life. Loosely based around the events of the episode "Suited for Success".</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-25T07:19:40+00:00
|
2011-09-25T07:19:40+00:00
| 2,338 |
Flapping her wings as fast as she could Scootaloo sped towards the clubhouse on the edge of Sweet Apple Acres. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom had raced ahead to fashion the wooden treehouse into a proper sickroom for their patient. Rainbow Dash slumbered on, only moaning occationaly whenever the wagon hit a bump. As the apple orchard came into view Scootaloo put on an extra burst of speed and skidded sideways in front of the clubhouse's ladder not noticing that doing this caused the wagon to tip over, spilling Rainbow Dash on the ground. "Did you see how fast I went Rainbow Dash? I almost flew!" Scootaloo looked behind her to see her hero laying in a heap on the ground. "Oops, I'll help you up. Hey guys come and help me carry her!" Sweetie Belle and Applebloom rushed down the ladder and helped lift Rainbow off of the ground. "What was she doing on the ground?" Sweetie Belle asked. "I dunno, I guess she just... fell out on her own?" Scootaloo shrugged. Sweetie Belle glared at her for a second in disbelief but decided to let it go.
After a lot of effort the crusaders were able to drag the full grown pony up the ladder. "Now, get her over to the bed and we'll give her some soup." Sweetie Belle nosed a bowl over to where Rainbow was laying and shook her a little. "Um, Rainbow Dash? Could you wake up and drink this please so you'll feel better?"
"You'll have to be firmer than that Sweetie," Applebloom said. "Doctor ponies don't just let their patients do what ever they want, we have to make her eat the soup."
"Yeah!" Scootaloo chimed in. "Like this. WAKE UP!" She yelled in Rainbow Dash's ear while bouncing on top of her.
Rainbow Dash sat bolt upright accidentily throwing Scootaloo against the wall. "Wha? Where am I?" She rasped. The three fillies stood in front of her and smiled. "We saw you were feelin poorly so we brought you to our clubhouse. We're going to make you feel all better and get our cutie marks for doctorin!" Applebloom proclaimed.
"Um thanks girls, but I'm not feeling that bad... so I think I'll just go home now..."
"The patient is resisting treatment! Scootaloo get the rope! Applebloom hold her down! I'll get the soup." Before she could react Rainbow Dash was tied to the makeshift bed and was having warm carrot soup poured down her throat. "Make sure she gets plenty to drink, we don't want her getting dehydrated." Sweetie Belle said with an air of authority.
"Whats deehighdredated mean?" Scootaloo asked.
Sweetie Belle just sighed and rolled her eyes.
After a bit of planning (and a lot of arguing) the Cutie Mark Crusaders decided that caring for Rainbow Dash would be done in shifts so that they would each have a chance to go home and eat or rest. Rainbow was quiet throughout the disscussion due to her sore throat. Besides, having somepony to take care of her was pretty awesome she had to admit. Even if during Scootaloo's shift the orange filly spent most of her time asking questions about flying or just staring at Rainbow in admiration. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom were much better at taking care of her but still wouldn't remove the ropes and only let her go outside the clubhouse on a "leash". Rainbow spent most of her time sleeping so she wasn't too sure how long she had been stuck in the treehouse. Shouldn't somepony be looking for her? Maybe the fillies had told her friends that they were taking care of her. Yeah, that was probabally what was what happened. That settled she snuggled into her pillows and fell asleep.
Twilight Sparkle stood in the middle of the Ponyville with her clipboard and addressed the crowd of ponies around her. "Rainbow Dash has been missing for five days! I've already seperated you into groups so if everypony is ready please start searching your assigned areas. If anypony finds anything that might give us a clue as to what has happened to her please come straight back here and report to me. You are dismissed!" As the ponies started to move away in groups Twilight turned around to talk to a very distraght Rarity. "I just can't believe that she's missing! When I came back to my workroom and she was gone I was upset naturally but I thought that she had simply gotten bored with waiting and was going to come back. But she didn't!"
Rarity was approching a histerical pitch and Twilight put her hoof on the white unicorn's shoulder to reassure her. "Its alright Rarity, for all we know she just is hiding in a cloud somewhere and doesn't even know we are worried. Go home and relax, we have things under control here."
Rarity calmed down a bit and gave Twilight a small smile. "You're right my dear, I'm getting all upset over what is most likely nothing. I think I'll just go home and have some tea, I need to make some dinner for Sweetie Belle as well, she hasn't been at home much lately. I know that she is very focused on trying to find her cutie mark but I do wish that she was around more."
"Go home Rarity." Twilight said a little more firmly.
"I'm sorry, I'm just such a wreck between making all the dresses for the gala... not that I mind not at all! I love doing things for my friends..." Rarity's voice trailed off as she walked back home.
Once she was gone Twilight allowed all the worry she had been feeling to finally show on her face. Looking up at the stars she wispered to herself "Where are you Rainbow?"
|
wlyteth
|
1007
| 3 |
Applejack,Big Macintosh,Cutie Mark Crusaders,Rainbow Dash,Rarity,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Cloudy Crusades
|
After taking a nap outside Rainbow Dash catches a cold.
|
complete
| 16 | 3 |
<p>Rainbow Dash loves naps, but when she decides to take one in the middle of a storm she gets sick. Will the usually athletic pegasus be able to slow down and get the rest she needs to get better? And what do the Cutie Mark Crusaders have in store for Ponyville's self proclaimed "coolest pony"? </p><p>When I started writing this it was meant as a random comedy but so far it feels more slice of life. Loosely based around the events of the episode "Suited for Success".</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-10-08T23:53:24+00:00
|
2011-10-08T23:53:24+00:00
| 2,551 |
It was Applebloom's turn to take care of Rainbow Dash so she was gathering some food from the Sweet Apple Acres kitchen. It was well past her bedtime and the only light was from the sliver of moonshine that filtered through the window. "Lets see... I can take the rest of this apple pie, and these carmel apples... oooh apple fritters!" She stuffed the food into a sack and climbed up onto a counter to get a thermos from the shelf. Applebloom hummed a quiet tune to herself as she poured apple juice into the thermos. Suddenly she could hear somepony else humming along. Eyes wide she slowly turned her gaze to the doorway of the kitchen where a large shadow loomed.
"Gettin yerself a snack little sis?" Big Macentosh's said in his deep voice. "Yer getting juice on the floor."
"Oh!" Applebloom realized that she hadn't stopped pouring and the juice was overflowing the thermos. "Um, yeah Big Mac, I was just a little hungry and didn't want to bother nopony so I was fixin a snack."
"Same." He replied sitting down at the table. "Iffin you don't mind I'll eat with you."
"Uh.. uh.. ok yeah um lets eat then." Applebloom dragged the sack over to the table and gave Big Mac some of the food she had planned to give to Rainbow Dash.
"Why'd you put food in a bag? I hope you weren't plannin on eating in your room again, you know Granny don't allow that."
"I was going to be extra careful..." Applebloom lied hoping he would finish his food and go back to bed.
Big Mac nodded and chewed. Applebloom pretended to take a bite of fritter. She was very full from dinner and didn't want to get sick from over eating. "Sooooo... what was that big town meetin about? Applejack seemed pretty upset afterwards."
Big Mac swallowed another fritter before answering. "Seems like her friend Rainbow Dash has gone missin. Everypony is real worried about her being gone. Be a right shame iffin somepony knew where she was and didn't fess up. That pony could be in a whole heap of trouble seems like. Welp, I'm off to bed. Sleep well little sis."
"...night Big Mac."
Applebloom laid her head on the table, it wasn't right to worry folks, but she didn't want to betray her friends. But if there were really making ponies worried it wasn't right to keep quiet.
"Big Mac!"
"Eeyup?"
"We have her! Me and Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo! We didn't mean no harm to nopony its jus she was sick and we thought we could make her feel better and get our cutie marks at the same time! I'm so sorry I was bad!"
She burst into tears and as Big Mac came over and hugged her. "There there 'bloom theres no harm done. Now lets go take her out of that cramped treehouse and let her go home."
Applebloom looked up at him in surprise. "You mean ya... ya knew?"
"Eeyup. But you needed to see it was wrong on your own." He lifted her gently by the scruff and put her on his back. "I'm sure iffin we ask Miss Rainbow nice she won't let anypony get mad at you nor your friends."
Back at the treehouse Scootaloo was pacing back and forth in front of the ramp, a small stick in her mouth. Sweetie Belle trotted down the ladder and Scootaloo stopped in front of her. "Halt! Is the prisioner secure?"
"She's not our prisioner Scootaloo! She's our patient! How many times do I have to keep telling you that?"
Scootaloo leaned in closer to Sweetie Belle and narrowed her eyes. "Maybe you have to keep telling me until I understand!"
"That doesn't even make sense, agggh forget it, where's Applebloom? She's late."
Scootaloo dropped into a crouch and slunk around. "She must have been captured by eneimy spies."
"Spies? Really? You can't be serio-" Scootaloo pressed a hoof over Sweetie Belle's mouth, interuppting her. "Shhhh. I hear something" She wispered loudly. The two fillies stared into the dark forest for several moments. Hearing nothing further the two ponies relaxed.
"See, I told you there was no spies, no danger, no... gigantic monster!" Sweetie Belle screamed and Scootaloo charged forward with her stick. "Back you monster back!" With a flying leap Scootaloo launched herself at the large shadow that had stepped into the clearing from the forest.
"Wait Scootaloo!" Applebloom cried as she jumped off Big Mac's back. The orange pegasus couldn't stop however and colided head first into Applebloom.
"Ow..." They both said as Big Mac shook his head. Sweetie Belle ducked her head down in shame. "I'm sorry I called you a monster Mr. Macintosh." Big Mac gave her a silent nod to tell her there was no harm done.
"So..." Applebloom looked towards Big Mac before continuing. "I um... well you see... what we did to Rainbow was um bad. We shouldn't have ponynapped her against her will even if we had good inten-... itren-... uh."
"Intentions?" Sweetie Belle offered.
"Yeah, those. So I don't want us to get in no trouble so I think we should let Rainbow Dash go home."
"No way!" Scootaloo yelled. "We did all this work and she can't go until she teaches me some awesome tricks!"
Before anypony could say more the treehouse started to shake, the boards rattling so much that the nails started to shoot off in every direction. There was a crack of thunder and the treehouse exploded with a burst of multicolored lightning as Rainbow Dash flew into the sky, dragging the splintered wood in her wake.
"Tricks like that one..." Scootaloo said softly as the four ponies stared at the swiftly disappearing pegasus.
(Author's note: I really wanted to get this chapter out DAYS ago but I came down with a cold and then my prereaders came down with a case of laziness. This story is going slightly different than I first imagined, but I like it. Seems like you guys do too, so I'll try not to disappoint.^.^; The next chapter should be the last as soon as I decide how I want to wrap things up. I'm going to stop talking now and go take some NyQuil.)
|
wlyteth
|
1007
| 4 |
Applejack,Big Macintosh,Cutie Mark Crusaders,Rainbow Dash,Rarity,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Cloudy Crusades
|
After taking a nap outside Rainbow Dash catches a cold.
|
complete
| 16 | 3 |
<p>Rainbow Dash loves naps, but when she decides to take one in the middle of a storm she gets sick. Will the usually athletic pegasus be able to slow down and get the rest she needs to get better? And what do the Cutie Mark Crusaders have in store for Ponyville's self proclaimed "coolest pony"? </p><p>When I started writing this it was meant as a random comedy but so far it feels more slice of life. Loosely based around the events of the episode "Suited for Success".</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-10-30T05:09:41+00:00
|
2011-10-30T05:09:41+00:00
| 1,989 |
Rainbow Dash had heard part of the muffled conversation between Sweetie Belle and Sccotaloo and knew that this might be her only time to escape. Once those two started arguing they wouldn't be able to even notice anything else. The interior of the treehouse was small. Low roof, tiny windows, and a firmly locked door. Experimentally Rainbow stood on her hind legs and tapped her front hooves against the wooden wall. The weathered boards rattled slightly. Rainbow Dash smirked to herself. This would be easy. There wasn't any way to escape without completely destroying the treehouse, but it was the only solution. She flapped her wings a little to gain some lift and hit her head on the ceiling. "Ow..." she said loudly then froze. The two fillies outside had stopped talking. Had they heard her? If so there was no time to lose. Rainbow flapped her wings again to hover and started somersaulting in place while keeping her self in the air. She began to pick up speed, feeling little jolts of electricity spread across her. Faster and faster she flipped without touching the walls, ceiling, or floor. Rainbow was starting to get dizzy and with one final flip she smacked her hind hooves against the floor and flapped her wings rapidly. The treehouse exploded and she shot into the sky. She didn't see the looks on all the ponies below her in Ponyville, the shock and amazement that not only was Rainbow Dash was alright, but also she had pulled off yet another amazing trick.
Twilight Sparkle, Rarity and Applejack were standing near the edge of Sweet Apple Acres and (aside from the four ponies below the treehouse) had the clearest view of Rainbow Dash's escape.
"Rainbow! She's ok!" Twilight threw her hooves around Applejack in joy. "She was here the whole time!"
"If that don't beat all..." Applejack said, a huge smile on her face turning into a grimace. "and I have and idea about a little filly that might be responsible fer that."
"Sweetie Belle and that little orange ruffian had their part in this as well I'm sure." Rarity replied. "Just wait until I get ahold of my sister... She is going to..." There was a loud thunk followed by a soft thud as Rarity fell to the ground, a wooden board lying across her face.
Twilight and Applejack were trying to revive Rarity when Big Mac and The Cutie Mark Crusaders stepped out of the orchard into the clearing. Applejack whirled around and glared at her little sister. "APPLE BLOOM! Did you know where Rainbow Dash was this entire time?"
The little filly looked at the ground. "Yessum. And I'm sorry! We didn't mean no harm by takin' her!"
"I'm sorry too Miss Applejack. "Sweetie Belle added as she poked a hoof into Scootaloo's ribs.
"Ow! Um I mean yeah I'm sorry too. Kinda."
Applejack looked like she was still going to lash out at the apologetic fillies so Big Mac intervened. "These girls were just trying their best to do good by a friend of yourn and they know they've done wrong so instead of makin' them feel worse why don't we try to find some way to make it up to Rainbow?"
"But they LIED Big Macintosh! I just can't abide lying, even more so when it was about somethin' so important!"
Twilight had finally managed to wake up Rarity, who was rubbing her very sore head. "Applejack.... be a dear and stop shouting, its making making me see strange streaks of light."
"You mean its making you see streaks of AWESOMENESS!" Rainbow Dash shouted as she skidded down out of the sky and into the clearing. "Don't blame them for keeping me locked up, I could have left at any time. I was just enjoying the attention thats all." Rainbow said nonchalantly as she examined a front hoof.
"If thats true, then why did you have to break our clubhouse?" Sweetie Belle asked.
"Oh.. ah.. heh. Sorry about that."
"Well it looks like we've all learned yet another interesting thing about friendship." Twilight said.
Scootaloo rolled her eyes and muttered "of course she would say that." Sweetie Belle poked her again.
The rest of the ponies looked at Twilight in confusion. Finally Applejack spoke up. "Um Sugarcube? I know you have to make all them reports to the princess and such, but I don't really think anypony learned anything here."
"Of course we did!" Twilight countered. "The Cutie Mark Crusaders learned that ponyknapping is not the answer to um... wanting to help somepony. And I'm sure Rainbow Dash learned that destroying the property of somepony that was trying to help you isn't the right thing to do. Even if you are trapped inside that property. At least, I think thats what everypony learned here."
"Perhaps Twilight is correct," Rarity said. "And I think I have an idea on how these ponies can put this new lesson on friendship into practice.
~~~Two days later~~~
Apple Bloom carried a small tray of food and laid it on a table next to a hospital bed. Sweetie Belle put a glass of water next to it and lifted the cover off the food tray. "Mmmm sure looks yummy Mr. Breezy! Enjoy your meal!" The colt laying in the bed smiled at the little fillies and waved a bandaged hoof.
Nurse Redheart walked over with Scootaloo. "Now remember girls, Mr. Breezy hurt his hoof and can't feed himself so as junior nurses one of you have to do it. I believe its your turn Scootaloo."
"Yeah, yeah." The orange pegasus grumbled.
"Don't be so glum Scootaloo, I hear Rainbow Dash has a wonderful surprise for you girls after your shift is over."
"Really?" Scootaloo instantly perked up and started to spoon food into Mr. Breezy's mouth. "I can't wait!"
The three fillies rushed through the rest of their mandatory hospital volunteer work and started on their way to Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack met them at the main gate. "Ok girls, once you are ready to see your surprise just go on to where your old clubhouse was."
"Old clubhouse...?" Apple Bloom started to ask but the rest of her sentence was torn away in the gust of wind that Scootaloo created when she propelled her scooter and the wagon to top speed.
They arrived at the place where their treehouse had stood in a matter of seconds. But instead of the ruin of broken boards they had expected there was a brand new clubhouse made out of puffy white clouds. Rainbow Dash finished putting a few final touches on the cloud roof and flew over to the astonished fillies. "So, how do you guys like it? Its just temporary, the clouds won't last forever but I thought you could use it as a clubhouse until I can help you build a new one."
"Its so pretty!" Apple Bloom said.
"And awesome!" Scootaloo cheered.
"And white!" Sweetie Belle added.
Rainbow Dash laughed as the three small ponies started to explore their new cloud house. Scootaloo had already climbed to the top of the roof and was bouncing on the cloud. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle couldn't stop talking about how many rooms it had, though they were a little disappointed that only Scootaloo was able to use the cloud couch.
|
dark angel
|
1009
| 1 |
Alternate Universe,Comedy,Dark,Random
|
As long as there is hope .......
|
Partially its about my life so far ..................The rest is fiction.
|
incomplete
| -1 | -1 |
<p>What happens when people think they do the right thing but in the future it turns out to be a mistake ? Is giving life equal to be given life ?This story contains answers to both questions . It is a story of love , hope ,mistakes , adventure , irresponsibility all of which can be found in the life of three people and ponies . The ponies and their planet are needed because………….. well you'll see.</p>
|
everyone
| null |
2011-09-24T11:41:31+00:00
| 298 |
PROLOGUE
Being the story of my life so far ,i would like to thank everybody who has chosen to read this because it is important for me to share this story . I hope you understand that my characters do not have the actual names (including me ) as the real people but the events that are mentioned took place at the time and location that is said..
Having all that said i think it is time i should introduce you to the characters , main and not so important .
Family
Mum : Victoria One of the most loving / lovable people on this planet . She can sacrifice herself in order to please others but she can also be very stubborn and stupid.
Dad : Francis Good , kindhearted .He can be loyal to one without questioning their devotion.Mature and childish depending on the situation he has made many mistakes but he has promised to himself and others he will make up for them.When he has a target he is devoted to completing it no matter what so he has fairly developed the reputation of being devoted to his cause and of having a strong will. I spent loads more time with him when i was little so we are more bonded.
Me : Moyra – Angel : Stubborn , an ego but also kind , loving , rational . I also have a very strong will and I'm a natural fighter in the battle field of life.
Granny Nanno : Margaret(mother of Francis) Also loving , caring .We only recently managed to bond but still i feel she needs to be mentioned.
Grandad ( father of Francis ) : A daemon that has always been haunting dad. He was a terrible father and grandfather as he left my granny alone with six children ( one is my dad and the rest are one uncle ,four aunties).This time i will mention his real name since i don't even know if he still is in Mexico or he is dead.His name is Micheal ( turned it into Miguell ) and I an the only grandchild out of the twelve of us to meet him.
Granny Moyra (mother of Victoria ) : Stubborn , she believes that people should do what she says. Not only that she loves to manipulate people and control situations. Unfortunately she managed to make me love her when i was young but as i grow up i get to dislike her. My mother listened to her for a long time and as a result she has made many mistakes through the years.
Grandad Nicholas (father of Victoria) : Mutual , he never expresses his feelings yet he loves to argue for the sake of arguing. Moyra loves to call him a nut case in front of other people.
Friends of mine:
Daniel : Born an optimist he never sees the downside of life. He is extra imaginative,talented and caring. He can sacrifice himself for you but he wants to know you will do the same.Well i think it is also important to say that he is my best mate .
Ronnie : King of the geeks , a real swat you cannot be friends with him unless he thinks you are intelligent enough. We are good friends but i dont think i can say something else about him.
Patrick : A softie , he came to our school from a private school in London. He is an easily likable person with loads of understanding.He is a shopaholic and in non uniform days he wares Armani. Dan used to be jealous of him cause he thought we were flirting.
Animals
Harry , the dog : I have no brothers or sisters but i have this dog which i love with all my heart. It can be lovable but you can hate it . But no matter what he will always be loyal.
Hope, the pony :Appears in my dreams , she has been there for the good and the bad always guiding me to the right choice. We have always been best friends .
Rational , the owl : She has always lived in granny Moyra's garden .I Love her because i believe she is my guardian angel and you will see why ... later on. Not only that i think she is my grate aunt Jan who helped my family a lot.
END OF PROLOGUE.
|
dark angel
|
1009
| 2 |
Alternate Universe,Comedy,Dark,Random
|
As long as there is hope .......
|
Partially its about my life so far ..................The rest is fiction.
|
incomplete
| -1 | -1 |
<p>What happens when people think they do the right thing but in the future it turns out to be a mistake ? Is giving life equal to be given life ?This story contains answers to both questions . It is a story of love , hope ,mistakes , adventure , irresponsibility all of which can be found in the life of three people and ponies . The ponies and their planet are needed because………….. well you'll see.</p>
|
everyone
| null |
2011-09-24T20:21:35+00:00
| 299 |
Chapter 1
(Why do you want us to leave ?)
1997.Brooklyn, NY. All that you could hear from the inside of apartment 17b is shouting however this time it is worse than ever. But who are the residents of this apartment and why are the arguing ? They are Victoria O'Connell and Francis McIntyre,my parents.
It all started in the kitchen , over which a dark cloud of silence had fallen,when Vicky decided to break the silence by talking to him. She had been thinking about it ever since she found out that.... she was pregnant but then she was hesitating , after all he should of learned it before her mother.
Screw it tell him now said her gut and so she did,''Honey , can you please sit down ?'' ' Why?' he asked with a quizzical look in his eyes.''Because....no , forget about it''she replied then cursed herself coward ,idiot but somehow she knew he would insist on knowing which is exactly what he did ''tell me I want to know because I want to tell you something too.'' ''OK I go first mm m....I'm pregnant and I want to go back home'' she muttered hopping he didn't hear a thing. Little did she know.....
Then out of no were he started cursing and and shouting without making sense .There was nothing she could do but agree with him until ,what she called his tantrum , ended. When he was calm again he took a deep breath ,sucking all the air from the room,then cleared his throat to announce it .''I suppose you give me no choice '' he muttered in a very disappointed tone.''What in the name of god does that mean ?''her response was immediate.''It means I have to turn down the fucking offer to stay here, turn my masters degree into a PhD which would lead to working for the university''This time he was something in between yelling and crying. She literally took cover by ducking under the kitchen counter.
Three deep breaths ,silence once again for a few seconds then she stood up all 5 ft of her with a serious look in her eyes.''I told my mother before you ''.That was it now you could see his black eyes flashing.''It was her idea that you return to the Republic ? I will kill the bitch'' words coming out of his mouth so quick one would of thought they were bullets from a mini gun.''Do not call my mummy a bitch she just wants ME &YOU to go and live with them and I totally support her'' ''Why the hell ??'' now that could be heard from California.''Because.... look at our life I mean this is no apartment or neighborhood to raise a child and I studied a teacher and they are not planning to give me a job in the near future.''
Bullshit he thought to himself if you wanted anything would be doable you just want to go back ,coward.''Say something '' you could see the desperation in her face. Still nothing. Asshole , your ego is drowning me this was her time to think what she felt about him at the time.''She booked tickets ,if you want you can stay '' the room froze from her tone. ''Now is this some love test ?? Of course I'm coming , I mean you are pregnant to my child and I am mot my father to let you go''he sounded calm and loving.''Do you mean it ? What about …?''she tried really hard not to sound pushy.''I don't give a damn , when are we arriving , we have to set a wedding date !''he said whilst demonstrating his teeth by smiling a big smile.
''Hold your horses cow boy we are leaving in three days ,after all we do not have much packing to do '' my she was so pleased he heard her light laughter under her voice as she atured the words.''As for the wedding we can wait until our child is born.'' she announced in a quite girly /bossy tone. Both yawning then they muttered a ''I'm tired, lets head to bed'' at the same time. As soon as their heads hit the pillow the both dose off hugging each other.
|
dark angel
|
1009
| 3 |
Alternate Universe,Comedy,Dark,Random
|
As long as there is hope .......
|
Partially its about my life so far ..................The rest is fiction.
|
incomplete
| -1 | -1 |
<p>What happens when people think they do the right thing but in the future it turns out to be a mistake ? Is giving life equal to be given life ?This story contains answers to both questions . It is a story of love , hope ,mistakes , adventure , irresponsibility all of which can be found in the life of three people and ponies . The ponies and their planet are needed because………….. well you'll see.</p>
|
everyone
| null |
2011-10-19T18:36:52+00:00
| 257 |
Chapter 2
( The last days in the U.S )
She woke up to the smell of roses, maple syrup and pancakes."But wait, what's going on here? It's not Sunday so its not the neighbors" she declared in a sheepish tone.Then she turned to face the alarm clock 11:20 the big red letters said making her automatically think she had overslept even though she knew she had nowhere to go.
Then as she stumbled along to the bathroom she remembered yesterdays discussion which brought to mind she did have work to do." Fuuuuk "she muttered as she turned the hot tap to enjoy a morning shower she considered inevitable to start her day without one.Five minutes later wrapped up in a towel she staggered to the kitchen to find Francis waring an apron ,standing over a frying pan making pancakes.At first he didn't notice her so the feeling of a wet body that smelled of soap pressed against his back seemed weird.Before he could think , turn to face her or say something she started .
''Morning baby ! What time did you wake up ? Why are you here? Thanks for the breakfast i really appreciate it!'' Maybe i over did it with the questions she thought to herself. '' OK is it my turn to talk now your Highness ?'' did i really want to sound sarcastic he reconsidered his words.After a few moments of awkward silence she left . " Damn you asshole of course you sounded too ..'' he sighed as he poured more coffee to himself .
''No, you sounded exactly the way you should of sounded if you consider my words ! So i think we ought to start again . Good morning honey how are you ?'' she explained.'' Lovely , thank you very much . Now ,I have a meeting with my professor in two hours and i believe it would be unfair if i left you without making you breakfast , which is what i did''he gave her one of his big smiles.''OK sweetheart I'm grateful BUT have you had any yourself ? Is there something I can do for you ?'' she flashed one back. "No absolutely nothing , the only thing you are going to do for the next nine months is rest to deliver a healthy baby for us'' he exclaimed in his most serious voice.
''Oh forget that ! I am not going to let you pack all our stuff by yourself , it would be ... more than unfair . After all I'm only some weeks pregnant I'm not disabled for gods sake" she whined in a offended cat tone.''No, you forget what you have in mind.And can we please stop arguing over such a tedious matter ? I have to have a shower , get changed and get going'' he told her in his most bossy tone of voice.''Yes sir '' of course they both knew she was lying even as she spoke.
He slowly walked towards the bathroom thinking of what he would tell the professor. Then undressing as quickly as possible he hoped in the shower and turned the tap . A cold blast hit his face but he didn't notice it as he had other things in mind.''No I'm not going to disappoint him after all it is a master '' he mumbled under his breath even though his brain was shouting quit it don't try to excuse yourself for giving up.But his heart was screaming''No you will not become like him you bastard , you listen to me!'' and so was he.
She was scared to.... approach him.''H..honey ? Are you all right in there ?'' she hesitated.No answer, Go in there she commanded herself .She did only to find him sitting his back pressed on the back of the shower cabinet , face in his hands ,sobbing like a baby.First thing she noticed was the temperature of the water''Goodness gracious, you will freeze yourself to death dear'' she remarked whilst turning the hot tap.After a minute or so he stepped out and allowed her to wrap a towel around him and hug him just like his mother used to.''Sh.. everything will be just fine if you want it to be '' she sounded like a mother .''Yes i do , i promise i will never abandon you'' still sobbing .''i know''she assured him.They both meant what they said.
As if nothing had happened he walked to the bedroom,got dressed and was out of the apartment within seconds.Keys in his hands he unlocked the door of the dustbin on wheels he called a vehicle.Two minutes later he was on the highway heading for the university and Armstrong's what a wonderful world was playing on the radio.''Nice song dude but not for me not for today anyway''he sighed as he switched off the radio.
So many thoughts floating around in his head that he failed to notice he was almost 10 miles over the speed limit and as a consequence was being chased by a police car.When he finally realized he pulled over.''Morning Sir '' normally he the rich northern accent would of echoed in his ears.''Sir ? License and Registration '' the officer commanded.''Oh yes, sorry I ,well no they are not at the house,here you go !'' he replied hoping only here you go were heard. But little did he know....''Have you been drinking ?''the cop asked gently.''No sir'' he wanted to say more but remembered what his instructor had told him''When you are asked this question reply with a yes or a no.''
Before saying or doing anything the cop scanned the interior of the car.Then he spoke''Well Mr Francis McIntyre i would like you to step out of the car,come here and take a breathalyser test '''. He obeyed but he was feeling uncomfortable having those eyes examining him. When it was all over he was asked if he knew the speed he was going at which ended with a speed ticket.He of course apologized and took off.
''Shit no i can pay the thing today so why mention it to Vicky''. He almost missed the turn for the university.''Ooops ''he exclaimed as he swerved to take the turn. Within a few seconds the car was parked,locked and he was walking through the university door feeling like an Oddyseus approaching his own Ithaka.He sighed then knocked on his profesors office door ready to face the remaining challenges.
''My dear mr McIntyre! How are you today !'' the supervisor always called him a mr and the respect they had for each other could not be hidden.''Fine,thank you!''he felt he was about to betray this man.''Well,let us sit down,get to some bussiness and oh ? what about some coffee?''prof.Johnsons words.''No thank you . I will not take a lot of your time,I just came to make an anouncment.'' he declared.''Wow so you have come to a decision ? The right one i hope since you deserve it.''a bright smile growing on Johnsons face.''Sorry but my wife is pregnant and we will be returning to her country Ireland so no I am unable to continue''he pealed the bandaid fast.
''No, I will give you anything you and your new family will need just stay!'' he sounded almost desparate.''I am terribly sorry sir'' he needed to leave.''Come here son.''they were both crying.''Open your wings and fly, good luck in Europe!'' After that he left and closed the door behind him,mixed feelings in his soul.
|
solsticebrony888
|
1011
| 1 |
Apple Bloom,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Main 6,Soarin,Sweetie Belle,Random,Romance,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A Heart For 2
|
Rainbow Dash meets a pony just as cool as her and it throws her whole romantic life upside down
|
complete
| 54 | 6 |
<p>(Story takes place during the events in AppleShy: The Series, Which isn't required to read this story)</p><p>Rainbow Dash never saw it coming. She was content with everything in her life! Being with Soarin was like living a dream come true, and everything seemed to be going fine! However, when she and her friends attend a party at Sugarcube Corner, she meets a certain somepony who changes everything for her. In the end, how will the events of just one night, change her whole life?</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-01-19T16:38:57+00:00
|
2012-01-19T16:38:57+00:00
| 5,675 |
Rainbow Dash giggled louder than she expected at Vinyl Scratch’s joke. Even the rave-loving crazy pony she was next to squinted at the oddness of her laugh, but didn’t let the conversation get awkward because of it. After taking in a breath of the cold night air, she continued the conversation on a more personal level.
”Dashie, you’re alright hehe. Thanks for taking this walk with me, Celestia knows I needed a break from that party..” She lied to compliment the pegasus beside her. The two ponies were only a few blocks from the party at Sugarcube Corner, but everything seemed to be going much faster for the two. The moonlight lit up the post-rain grass beside them to create a colorful scene. Rainbow Dash had herself to thank for the cloudless sky, which gave way for a gorgeous view of the star-dotted sky.
“Oh, no problem,” The rainbow pony replied, trying to play it cool ,”The party was getting lame anyway,”
Vinyl Scratch lifted up her goggles to reveal her seductive ruby-red eyes, illuminated by the bright moon’s light. Upon seeing this, immediately distracted the pegasus.
“Y-you have beautiful eyes,”Rainbow Dash stammered, appalled at how uncool it sounded for her to say that.
The blue maned unicorn got a confused look on her face ,”Hmmm? didn’t catch that,” She said, despite the fact she heard every word.
“Never mind...” The pegasus sighed, taking a good hard look at herself, heart beating faster than when she’s flying.
What am I doing? Come on Rainbow, get it together..
Vinyl Scratch blew her mane out of her face and gave the pegasus a shy smile, almost just to entice Rainbow Dash just a little more. She didn’t know how to give the pegasus a bigger hint.
“You can tell me anything, Dash,” She felt odd for saying that, after only meeting her several hours before. But the Rainbow Pegasus seemingly agreed with her.
“Ya know, I’ve known you only since like 5 and I already feel like we just, well, get each other, ya know? You’re one cool pony, Vinyl Scratch,” The pegasus eased into a little more of a flirtatious mood, though just starting with a friendly compliment. Her heart slowed in pace as she cruised into a more comfortable mood.
“That’s nice of you to say Dashie,” The pegasus smiled uncontrollably when she called her Dashie, she looked down just to try and hide it. ”But I’m talking to the only pony to ever do the Sonic Rainboom, let alone twice! There’s absolutely nothing cooler than that!”
“Sonic Rainboom? Psh, that was nothin’. I could do it again if I tried hard enough,”
“You saved three of the Wonderbolt’s lives and your friend’s while doing one! That’s purely legendary!” Said Vinyl Scratch enthusiastically.
“Hehe, I guess it was pretty cool...”
“Don’t even down-play it! I should ask for your autograph!”
Blushing, Rainbow Dash laughed to play it off “Oh come on now, I know it was cool, but I’m sure any other pegasus in that situation could have done it,” The pegasus enjoyed being flattered by the unicorn next to her.
“Yeah right! Stop bein’ so modest and admit when you’ve done something only you can do! I wish I could have been there to see you do it!”
The two then instinctively turned around as they neared the edge of another corner, not wanting to stray to far from the party waiting for Vinyl Scratch to return to her position as Dj.
It soon got silent, but more of a tense silence than awkward. They both felt the pressure of what needed to be said like 1000 pounds of brick pressuring their consciences. Rainbow Dash took a sigh for confidence, then spoke, feeling the time was right.
"What am I doing, Vinyl Scratch?"
"Hmmm?"
”I-I don’t know what I’m doing or thinking right now, everything is such a blur to me..”
Vinyl Scratch looked at her with wide, expectant eyes, that glowed from the moon's light.
“These f-feelings,” She paused and breathed in the cold night air ,”D-do you feel them too?” Rainbow Dash’s heart beat so fast she could feel it pumping in her chest.
Without missing a beat, Vinyl Scratch slowly leaned in, closing her eyes and went in for the kill. Both ponies stopped in their tracks to cradle each other during a long, passionate kiss, unlike anything either of them had experienced before.
--------------14 hours earlier-------------
Rainbow Dash sped through the air excitedly and carelessly, just a few minutes after waking up. She blew through clouds causing them to instantly disappear, something that she would have to deal with later, because she always had something else on her mind when doing this. Each morning had became a habit for her after several months of being with Soarin. Each morning she’d gobble down a breakfast, then launched herself from her house in the clouds to Cloudsdale just to greet her Stallion, just before he made his way off to his work with the Wonderbolts. She didn’t just feel cool from being with a Wonderbolt, she felt happy. Somepony who was just as cool as her, with the job she could possibly gain at any time? Things only seemed downhill from here, thought the Rainbow Pegasus, gliding majestically to a stop at the mansion-esque home of the famed stallion.
“Well hello there, cutie!” greeted Soarin, already dressed in his regular attire for his the Wonderbolts, his blue mane slightly messy even before flying. Rainbow flew suspended in air and kissed him, the way she always does it.
“Thought I wouldn’t make it today, almost fell back asleep!” Her voiced cracked, but she payed no mind to it. As he lifted off, She flew by his side, feeling the daily adrenaline rush of flying with somepony she once considered a hero, that she now called her own.
“Are you going to be home early enough to go to the party tonight with me? I could finally show you to my friends, and ALL of Ponyville!”
He put his goggles on in mid-flight then responded without losing his focus on flying ,”I don't know about that one, sweetheart. There’s an air-show coming up, We really need our practice,” He frowned when he saw the disappointed look on Rainbow Dash’s face ,”I’ll still try my best to see what I can do, but when duty calls, duty calls,”
”Yay!” She said with another crack in her voice, ”I really hope you can, Soarin’, I’m ready for everyone to know about...us,”
“Oh me too! And I’m sure if we can’t tonight that that crazy pink pony wouldn’t have a problem doing another party soon,”
Rainbow Dash shrugged, as they made a slight turn towards the rising sun. ,”I’m sure she could...”
They quickly came upon their destination, and slowed to a stop at the entrance. It was a large building, possibly the tallest out of any in Cloudsdale, and it was meant only for the Wonderbolts. The two hugged.
“I love you, Rainbow Dash, I’ll see what I can do about the party, but there are no guarantees,” Said the stallion in a firm, deep voice.
“I love you too,” She said, silently disappointed that he was about to miss another chance for them to go public with their relationship.
After a kiss, the two ponies went their separate ways for the day. Rainbow Dash watched enviously as he flew into the building she believed someday, she could enter with him. After taking off she continued along with her daily ritual. The Rainbow Pegasus flew back to her home in the clouds above Ponyville, and took a long, lazy nap.
She woke up suddenly in mid-air. After instantly flapping her wings to stabilize herself, it took her a second to realize she had fallen out of bed. She was about a foot from falling through another cloud, which would of meant a very painful crash landing in PonyVille. Despite this, she laughed at herself.
After rubbing her eyes with her hooves, she floated up high enough to see a clock. 3:26.
“That was a long nap,” She thought out-loud.
GRRBLBRLBBRLBBL.
She looked at her own stomach. “I need to get something to eat. UGH,”
She lazily flew out of her home, and made her way to the center of town. She decided that she could probably find somepony working the apple stand that day. About an hour until the party starts, Rainbow Dash decided she would probably hang there until the party starts. The pegasus started the lower as she flew above the center of Ponyville. She then scanned the area for any sign of the Apple Stand.
“Looking fer somethin’ Sugarcube?” A voice called from behind her.
Rainbow Dash turned around to see Applejack and Fluttershy together like usual. Even though she’s never say it out loud, she could never understand why a mare would be with another mare. To her, there were just too many ponies out there that would be against it. It even got to the point of bothering the pegasus, but she was too loyal to her friends to treat them any different. So she greeted Applejack with an expectant smile.
“Applejack! Is the Applestand open? This pony is STARVING,”
The orange pony shook her head ,”Not today, Sugarcube. The Apple Stand is closed on Saturdays. Ah’m sorry,”
Fluttershy giggled despite herself, lucky that Rainbow Dash was too busy flailing her fore-hooves in disappointment to notice.
”WHY!?”
Applejack let out a hearty laugh,”Ah’m just foalin’ with ya Rainbow! Today it’s right outside of Sweet Apple Acres. Ya shoulda seen your face! Priceless”
The mare couple shared a collective laugh at the embarrassed pegasus, who just played it off as cool as she could.
“Me and Pinkie Pie are gonna have to get you for that cruel prank you just pulled on me...” The rainbow pegasus half-joked ,”Seriously, though. Thanks a bunch Applejack,” She said with a crack in her voice, darting off towards Sweet Apple Acres without waiting for a response.
The Rainbow Pony returned a half an hour later stuffed nearly to the point of implosion, with a happy grin (And some apple) on her face. After such a good meal, she was ready to party, but still had time to waste before it began. At a loss as to what to do, Rainbow Dash just flew around pointlessly, doing random tricks and clearing out the clouds, which was something she was supposed to do in the first place. Then she suddenly thought of Soarin. Even though she knew the answer already, she wanted to know if Soarin was back from work. With time to spare, she once again left the town square to return to Soarin's home.
When she arrived, she entered the house on her own. After yelling for him, his mansion being so big she needed to yell just in case he was far in the back of the place, she sighed from disappointment. Even though she expected the disappointment, it still bothered like it has on every other occasion he’s been unable to be with her for. And so, after one more ill-fated shout of the Wonderbolts name, the Rainbow Pony flew out and left back to Ponyville, to a party that had just begun.
|
solsticebrony888
|
1011
| 2 |
Apple Bloom,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Main 6,Soarin,Sweetie Belle,Random,Romance,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A Heart For 2
|
Rainbow Dash meets a pony just as cool as her and it throws her whole romantic life upside down
|
complete
| 54 | 6 |
<p>(Story takes place during the events in AppleShy: The Series, Which isn't required to read this story)</p><p>Rainbow Dash never saw it coming. She was content with everything in her life! Being with Soarin was like living a dream come true, and everything seemed to be going fine! However, when she and her friends attend a party at Sugarcube Corner, she meets a certain somepony who changes everything for her. In the end, how will the events of just one night, change her whole life?</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-01-19T16:58:21+00:00
|
2012-01-19T16:58:21+00:00
| 3,977 |
The pegasus, upon arrival at the party, decided she wouldn’t let the absence of Soarin stop her from having a good time. The atmosphere of the whole place was a lot cooler than she expected from a cake shop. Pinkie Pie had outdone herself again, the whole filled with the coolest ponies from PonyVille, AND Twilight Sparkle. She laughed at the thought. She saw the purple unicorn at a table with Rarity and a jumping Pinkie Pie, so she head through the crowd of ponies to meet them.
“OH MY GOSH!,” Pinkie Pie crushed the pegasus in a tight hug ,”Glad you could make it! This is like, my BEST party of the year! I got everyone I could to come, tonight should be amazing! Thanks for coming Rainbow Dash!,”
“You...can...let...me...go...now”
“OH HEHE! My bad DASH! hehe!” The Pink Pony then Gasped at the sight of Applejack and Fluttershy who had just came in, and in her regular loud fashion, left the three ponies at the table with a loud BYE!
Relinquished from Pinkie Pie’s abnormally strong grip, she sat at the table with Twilight and Rarity.
“Pinkie Has definitely out-done herself this time!” Said Twilight, comfirming Rainbow Dash’s thoughts from earlier.
Rarity nodded ,”I’m going to have to agree with you on that one, Twilight. She sure has such an attention to detail, almost rivaling my own!” She mused, stressing the ‘almost’.
“Hey Rainbow, um wasn’t Soarin’ supposed to come with you tonight?” Questioned the Unicorn sitting across from her.
Rainbow sighed ,”No...he had work or something. Again... Doesn’t mean I couldn’t come and still have some fun,”
“Well, at least you’re here. The real party doesn’t even begin until when it’s dark outside, and it will be soon! Pinkie Pie told us that before you arrived,”
This piqued Rainbow’s interest ,”A night-time party huh? Sounds good to me!”
The rainbow pegasus relaxed in her chair and enjoyed the company of her friends. Soon Pinkie Pie was back with Applejack and Fluttershy, all 6 now at the same table, catching up with each other. A lot of them had been busy recently, and all 6 being in the same place at the same time was somewhat of a rare occurrence then.
“So how is everypony? It sure has been a while since I’ve seen everypony,” Reacting to Twilight’s question, They all glanced at Rainbow to go first.
“Um, well, everything's good I guess, me and Soarin are doing fine,” She flinched waiting for somepony to ask where he was, when nopony did, she continued ,”And, um yeah. Living life and flying a lot blah blah blah,”
Pinkie Pie went next without anypony expecting it ,”OK! Guys! I’ve been great! I’ve baking LOTS of cakes here at Sugarcube corner, but then I was like, I HAVEN'T HAD A PARTY IN A WHILE, and then I was like I HAVEN'T MY FRIENDS IN A WHILE! And that should be a crime, so then I thought for an hour or two until I had the realization to have a party and invite all my friends! And HERE YOU ALL ARE! YAY!” Pinkie went from unusually calm to hopping up and down sporadically in 10 seconds flat, right before she got within inches of a white ponies face with a huge smile ,”Rarity! How ‘bout you! Watcha been up too,” After leaning back to avoid the pink ponies intrusion on her personal space, the white pony sighed to give herself a second to think.
“Well, Pinkie Pie, everything is going absolutely fantastic for me, Photo Finish gave me another chance and now, I’m designing clothing for her models to wear all this week! It’s all because Applejack and Fluttershy came over and modeled with BonBon and Lyra last week!” Rarity said, with congratulations from everypony at the table. Applejack grimaced at the mention of Lyra, and was glad Rarity didn’t go into much more detail about that day.
Twilight smiled and went next ,”Well, You guys have been up to a lot, while for me, it’s basically been the norm. Study, feed Spike, eat here, come back and study then sleep. Hasn’t been too exiting, so when Pinkie gave me the invite, I was overjoyed to finally do something else,” She turned her head to the only couple at the table ,”How about you two?”
“Well, um, Besides last week at Rarity’s, we really haven’t don't much either...Applejack work’s at the farm during the day, and I just care for my animals pretty much all until she gets home. It’s not too exiting, which is um, why I love it,” Applejack nodded in agreement, having nothing felt she needed to add to it.
Just then, everything went dark, all the music completely silent, only noise being heard was a quiet squeak from Fluttershy. “The Party has begun” said an exited voice that seemingly surrounded everypony in there. As soon as the strobe lights went off, a blast of fast paced electronica music got the crowd of ponies moving instantly. The mane six at the table were dumfounded by the amount of ponies in such a quaint building, and were even more surprised at how great the party already was, and it was only 5:30. Pinkie Pie darted up to the top of the stage in a second, ready to announce everypony that had a hand in creating the party.
“Hey everypony! How are ya doing today? GOOD? Well It’s only gonna get better from here on out! I’d like to Introduce you Mr and Ms. Cake back there, they’re the reason could have this party! They’re towards the back selling all sorts of delicious food and drinks, what’s a party without food and drinks huh?” After a short, but loud applause from the guests in the party, she ran up and put her arm around Vinyl Scratch, who didn’t even flinch,”Let me introduce you guys to VINYL SCRATCH! She’s the Dj this evening and you’ll know by the end of the night how great she is! GIVE IT UP!” Vinyl Scratch added a few extra twists and effects in the music as her own introduction to the crowd. Rainbow Dash looked up and scoffed ,”Ha, if it wasn’t for me being here, she’d probably think she’s the coolest pony here,” She said to herself because the other 5 already had got up to dance. Rainbow Dash decided to join in, even if dancing wasn’t her thing.
Half an hour quickly passed by when Rainbow returned from dancing to meet Twilight, Applejack and Fluttershy at their table. Rainbow hadn’t exactly given it her all, but felt pretty thirsty, and could tell the same for the 3 others at the table.
“Hey! Do you guys want a drink! I’m about to go up and buy some!”
At this point the Dj put on a repetetive, but still hip beat, and left her stand for a moment.
The three ponies nodded.
”I’ll just get water, then,” She said, recieving thankful smiles from the three at the table.
Rainbow Dash always enjoyed the feeling when she did something selfless for her friends. After waiting for a pony to get out of her way, she got up and walked into the crowd of ponies. Knowing there was a no-flying rule, she had to skinny through loads of ponies not exactly taking much effort to get out of her way.
Then, without warning BAM! She was knocked to the ground, and instinctively she flew up, enraged ,”HEY! Watch where you’re going!”
Vinyl Scratch looked up, not threatened ,”Hey hey! Calm down! Was only an accident! No-flying rule!"
Rainbow Dash flew down slowly ,”Still, watch wher-,” She squinted at her noticing her goggles through flickering flash of the strobing light ,”hey, you’re that Dj mare huh?”
“Yeah, but most ponies just call me Vinyl Scratch, DJ Mare is fine, though,”
The blue pegasus laughed a little ,”Ok, Vinyl Scratch,” she stressed in a a joking manner ,”You should pay more attention. I could have hurt you or something,”
The two were yelling over the loud music, and had to get close to each other just to hear each other.
“You could have hurt me? That’s quite mean!”
“Well, I mean-”
“No. no, it’s ok, here, I was being clumsy. let me make it up to you, follow me!” Without waiting for Rainbow Dash to agree, she led her up to the podium she just had left, right in front of the scratch board. The pegasus smiled in awe as she saw all the ponies slightly below, dancing mindlessly to the music.
“This must be a fun job!” She yelled, eyes wide.
“The funnest!”
The unicorn spun the scratch board a little, creating a crazy but awesome static sound, sent throughout the whole building.
She looked over at the star-struck pegasus with a sly smile “Wanna try?”
After a second, the pegasus yelled “DUH! Scoot over!” She moved into Vinyl’s spot and put her hooves over the scratch-board, unsure of what to do.
“Want me to show you how?” Questioned the smiling unicorn, amused by Rainbows confusion.
“No! I can figure it out!” She placed her hoof on it, and slid it a few times, but barely made an audible noise, an ugly one at that.
“Here,” Vinyl Scratch reached around the pegasus and showed her how to do it, from a more personal angle. Rainbow ignored that she got a little closer than she should have during the demonstration, because she was really enjoying learning how to Dj a party even if it was quick and very rushed. Even so, the pegasus soon was adding some really funky sounds to the mix, even getting cheers from the few ponies in the crowd paying attention to her.
“You’re a natural!” The unicorn exclaimed happily, slowly moving back into her spot ,”But I need to return to doing it myself, they payed ME to host this party”
Rainbow reluctantly gave up her spot to the real DJ ,”That was SO AWESOME!”
“We should do this again sometime!” Shouted the unicorn, while simultaneously handling the scratch board like a pro.
“For sure!” Rainbow Dash said, still fueled by the adrenaline of what she had just done. She was about to turn and return to her friends when Vinyl Scratch yelled ,”Wait!”
She turned back and looked expectantly at the Dj pony.
”You know my name, But I don’t know yours, What’s up with that?”
“Oh, my name’s Rainbow Dash! Sorry for not telling you earlier hehe,” Rainbow Dash felt unusually happy that Vinyl Scratch cared enough to know her name.
“It’s fine hun, guess you should go back to whatever you were doing before we collided huh?” Vinyl Scratch said, still masterfully multitasking.
Water for Twilight, Applejack and Fluttershy.
”Right!”
Rainbow Dash returned to her table with the three ponies awaiting their water with a grin on her face she couldn’t get off. She handed out the water and took a large gulp of her own. Twilight exclaimed ,”Was that YOU up there Rainbow Dash!?”
“Yes! Yes it was! It was so cool! Even though it was only for a minute, I had control of this whole party!”
“How were you allowed up there?”
All three ponies stared enviously at the pegasus.
“Oh, well, before, she knocked me down and uh, offered me a chance to do it! And you know me, I never say no to an oppertunity like that!"
Fluttershy tried to say something, but no one could hear her. Rainbow put her hoof to her ear to symbolize that she needed her to be louder. After inhaling, she tried again, but to no avail. Rainbow Dash laughed at the embarassed pegasus. Fluttershy ended up whispering in Applejack’s ear what she wanted to ask ,”’Dash, She wants ta know if it was scary,”
Rainbow played it cool like always ,”Oh no, well.. maybe a little when I first tried, but after she showed me how, I was like a pro up there...all eyes were on me!” The pegasus visibly relived it in her mind.
“Why are we sitting during this awesome party? Let’s get back out there girls! Anything can happen tonight! I’m pumped!” The pegasus jumped up, more energized than when she first arrived.
“Anything can happen tonight...”
|
solsticebrony888
|
1011
| 3 |
Apple Bloom,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Main 6,Soarin,Sweetie Belle,Random,Romance,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A Heart For 2
|
Rainbow Dash meets a pony just as cool as her and it throws her whole romantic life upside down
|
complete
| 54 | 6 |
<p>(Story takes place during the events in AppleShy: The Series, Which isn't required to read this story)</p><p>Rainbow Dash never saw it coming. She was content with everything in her life! Being with Soarin was like living a dream come true, and everything seemed to be going fine! However, when she and her friends attend a party at Sugarcube Corner, she meets a certain somepony who changes everything for her. In the end, how will the events of just one night, change her whole life?</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-01-19T17:14:12+00:00
|
2012-01-19T17:14:12+00:00
| 3,703 |
The moonlight shown through the many windows in Sugarcube Corner, adding to the already festive atmosphere of the Cake-shop turned nightclub. It was 9pm and everypony marveled at the brightness of the light that shown through, Luna really must have done them a favor, many of them thought. The pace of the music had slowed down to a slower, yet still lively beat, Vinyl Scratch catering to the requests of ponies in crowd. After nearly 3 hours of dancing nearly endlessly, Rainbow Dash found herself relaxing at the table with everypony except for Rarity, who left early because she spilled a drink in her mane and had to leave early to fix it, and Pinkie Pie who was catering food to all the guests. Even though it was only about 9pm, some ponies were leaving early, not that the party was bad, more because the party was really REALLY good. Applejack and Fluttershy were planning to be the next to leave.
"Don't get going yet guys! It's only 9! Who leaves an all-night party at 9?!" Rainbow Dash said emphatically from across the table ,"Just relax for a bit, then rejoin it, That's what I'm doing!"
"Ah don't know, Dash. Ah have to work early at the farm tomorrow, it's not like ah wanna go, and 'Shy is just really tired,"
Rainbow wasn't in the mood to do any convincing ,"Alright! If you guys wanna be party poopers than go ahead. Just remember how many times all of us actually get to hang these past few months,"
"Ah'm sure we will find more time to hang, Ah promise you that, Rainbow,"
Fluttershy was nodding off in Applejack's arms ,"Look, she's nearly fallin' asleep, even through all this music! Ah reckon that we gotta go before ah have ta carry her home hehe. Bye Rainbow, Bye Twilight, we WILL see y'all again soon, tell Pinkie Pie we loved the party!"
After they left, Twilight was the next to yawn, more forced than anything, but still gave Rainbow the hint that she was tired too.
"Oh come on, not you TOO, Twilight! You study all day long, why wouldn't want to take full advantage of this when you can actually have fun?"
Twilight shook her head ,"Everypony gets tired, Rainbow Dash, and even if I wasn't, Spike is still waiting for me to get home and fix him up some late night dinner, I have no choice!"
The rainbow pegasus shook her head in return ,"I'm gonna be left here with Pinkie Pie? She'll think all of you didn't like the party! And then she'll probably try and do another party to make up for it! Is that REALLY what you want, Twilight?"
Twilight shrugged ,"It's a risk I'm willing to take," She got up from her chair ,"Besides, you can just tell Pinkie Pie we left because we are tired, it's not like you'd be lying,"
"Ok, ok..."
Now Rainbow Dash was the only pony at her table. She sighed ,"...I wish Soarin was here, he wouldn't leave early," She thought for a second ,"Don't lie to yourself Rainbow Dash, you know he would..."
She flailed her hooves in the air with frustration ,"I don't need to be bummed out cuz everypony left!" She stood up and left to get back into the crowd. Once again, edging through ponies who weren't doing anything but getting in the way. She once again found new energy in having fun without anypony else there with her.
Then with a thud, she was again was knocked to the ground.
The pegasus was met with the hearty laugh of Vinyl Scratch. "Is this how we are always going to meet, Dashie?"
Rainbow jumped up ,"You did that on purpose huh?"
"...Maybe," She responded, jokingly poking Rainbow in her side, causing both to laugh.
"Ok, then this means war! And I never lose em," Rainbow Dash challenged, with a grin on her face as she fisted the air as if she was fighting.
The unicorn laughed ,"Well, you just met me today, I'm sure you'll have a loss or TEN once I'm done with ya!" The two mares giggled loudly.
"TEN? You're a funny one, Vinyl Scratch. I'd have to be asleep for you to even have a chance!"
The unicorn gave Rainbow Dash an inviting smile, thusly changing the subject ,"Look, I was about to take my break and go outside for a walk, would you like to join me?"
"Alright! Even though I totally don't need a break, I could party for hours" Rainbow Dash bragged confidently.
The two ponies quickly made their way outside. After three hours straight of music, the outside seemed so much more quiet and serene in comparison. Having just rained, the cool night air was very calming, the light of the moon shining off of the remaining water in the blades of grass was quite a different scene than they expected to see. Rainbow Dash wasn't told it was supposed to rain that day, which slightly bothered her that she wasn't told, but it didn't bother her for long. Each pony took a second to adjust to the cold night air.
"So, did you like taking control of the party earlier when you were on my scratch board?"
"Of course!" Rainbow exclaimed a little loudly, with an echo from across the street ,"I was a pro on my second try! Do you think you could let me do it again when we get back?"
"Sure thing Dashie!...You don't mind me calling you Dashie, do you?"
For any other pony, she hated it, but every time the pony across from her did, she loved it. "Not at all, Scratchy!"
"Where'd all your friends go, Dashie?" Rainbow Dash smiled despite herself at being called Dashie ,"They seemed to all leave at once,"
The pegasus shook her head,"My friend Rarity spilled something in her mane, and everypony else was just...tired.."
"Tired? At 9pm?"
"That's what I said!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.
"Then I did my job!" The two shared a collective chuckle.
Vinyl Scratch turned towards the pegasus walking beside her ,"Ya know, when I saw you walk in to the party, I though you were a TOTAL loser..." She giggled at the shocked expression on the pegasus' face ,"I'm just foalin' with ya! Shoulda seen the look on your face though! "
Rainbow Dash giggled louder than she expected at Vinyl Scratch’s joke. Vinyl Scratch gave her a surprised look just because of how odd the laugh was. Rainbow immediately recovered and put her cool back on. Vinyl Scratch took the conversation a step forward.
,”Dashie, you’re alright hehe. Thanks for taking this walk with me, Celestia knows I needed a break from that party..” She knew she could go on for a lot longer without this break, but seized the chance to get some alone time with the rainbow pegasus. The two ponies were only a few blocks from the party at Sugarcube Corner, but nothing seemed to matter for them at that moment.
“Oh, no problem,” The rainbow pony replied, trying to play it cool ,”The party was getting lame anyway,”
Vinyl Scratch lifted up her goggles to reveal her seductive ruby-red eyes, illuminated by the bright moon’s light. Rainbow Dash's heart fluttered at the sight of them.
“Y-you have beautiful eyes,”The pegasus stammered, soon appalled
at how uncool it sounded for her to say that.
The blue maned unicorn got a confused look on her face ,”Hmmm? didn’t catch that,” She said, despite the fact she heard every word.
“Nevermind...” The pegasus sighed, taking a good hard look at herself, heart beating faster than when she’s flying as fast as she can.
What am I doing? Come on Rainbow, get it together..
Vinyl Scratch blew her mane out of her face and gave the pegasus a shy smile, almost just to entice Rainbow Dash just a little more. She didn’t know how to give the pegasus a bigger hint. Neither of them quite knew what there were doing.
“You can tell me anything, Dash,” She felt odd for saying that, after only meeting her several hours before. But the Rainbow Pegasus seemingly agreed with her.
“Ya know, I’ve known you only since like 5 or 6 and I already feel like we just, well, get each other, ya know? You’re one cool pony, Vinyl Scratch,” The pegasus eazed into a little more of a comfortable mood, ignoring her concious just this once.
“That’s nice of you to say Dashie,” The pegasus smiled uncontrolably, and lowered her head to hide it ”But I’m talking to the only pony to ever do the Sonic Rainboom, let alone twice! There’s absolutely nothing cooler than that!”
“Sonic Rainboom? Psh, that was nothin’. I could do it again if I tried hard enough,”
“You saved three of the wonderbolt’s lives and your friend’s while doing one! That’s purely legendary!” Said Vinyl Scratch enthusiastically.
“Hehe, I guess it was pretty cool...”
“Don’t even down-play it! I should ask for your autograph!”
Blushing, Rainbow Dash laughed to play it off “Oh come on now, I know it was cool, but I’m sure any other pegasus in that situation could have done it,” The pegasus enjoyed being flattered by the unicorn next to her.
“Yeah right! Stop bein’ so modest and admit when you’ve done something only you can do! I wish I could have been there to see you do it!”
Reaching another corner, the two turned around.
It soon got silent, But more of a tense silence, not awkward. They both knew what they wanted, but didn't know what the mare next to them wanted.
"What am I doing, Vinyl Scratch?"
"Hmmm?"
”I-I don’t know what I’m doing or thinking right now, everything is such a blur to me..” The pegasus spoke without thinking.
Vinyl Scratch looked at her with wide, expectant eyes.
“These f-feelings,” She paused and breathed in the cold night air ,”D-do you feel them too?”
Without missing a beat, Vinyl Scratch slowly leaned in, closing her eyes. She put her hoof around Rainbow Dash's neck, and slowly kissed her. Both ponies stopped in their tracks to cradle each other during the long, passionate kiss, hidden under the bright shining moon. When they finished, they stared into each other's eyes, Vinyl Scratch smiling seductively, Rainbow Dash wanting more. This time the pegasus wrapped both of her fore-legs around the unicorn and made her move, into a second, longer and more passionate kiss. It was the most electrifying moment of Rainbow Dash's life.
"I-I" Rainbow Dash stammered, lightly pushing herself back, unsure of what she had just done. All she knew is that she liked it, a lot. She stood frozen, spacing out in thought, reliving what she had just done in her head.
Vinyl Scratch just stood silently, smiling adoringly at the shocked pegasus.
I wish felt that when I kiss Soarin
Rainbow's sudden realization immediately caused her to dart into mid-air, "OH MY GOSH," She panicked in mid air.
"What, Dashie?" Vinyl Scratch said, now wiping her mouth after their kisses.
Even through her panic, her heat skipped a beat when the unicorn called her Dashie.
"Soarin!" She shouted
"The Wonderbolt?" Vinyl Scratch questioned, looking behind her assuming he was near them.
"I-I'm...I'm with him...!" Hooves in her mane, she frustratingly tried to find out why she could have done such a thing.
This shocked the unicorn and her heart plummeted, "W-What?"
Rainbow Dash darted into the sky, with no intention of returning to the unicorn that she left behind, or the even the party for that matter.
"Dash! Wait...!" She started to run towards the flying pegasus, but soon realized the fallacy of it, "Please..."
Vinyl Scratch was only met with the echo of her desperate calls. With a deep sigh, the sadness immediately struck her full-force. Rainbow Dash; A pony she finally felt a connection too. A pony she could relate too, and most of all, actually liked her back! was now flying off in the distance, and possibly from her life, with no way for her to know where she was going, or any way to follow her.
The Dj put on her goggles, and walked slowly back to the party, confused with a heavy heart.
|
solsticebrony888
|
1011
| 4 |
Apple Bloom,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Main 6,Soarin,Sweetie Belle,Random,Romance,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A Heart For 2
|
Rainbow Dash meets a pony just as cool as her and it throws her whole romantic life upside down
|
complete
| 54 | 6 |
<p>(Story takes place during the events in AppleShy: The Series, Which isn't required to read this story)</p><p>Rainbow Dash never saw it coming. She was content with everything in her life! Being with Soarin was like living a dream come true, and everything seemed to be going fine! However, when she and her friends attend a party at Sugarcube Corner, she meets a certain somepony who changes everything for her. In the end, how will the events of just one night, change her whole life?</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-01-19T17:31:22+00:00
|
2012-01-19T17:31:22+00:00
| 3,558 |
Rainbow Dash flew into her bed cloud almost hard enough to break it. She yelled in agony, the thought of what she had just done, and the guilt of how much she enjoyed it ate at her conscious viciously. She flopped her head into her hooves and sighed loudly. It hurt her to know she betrayed the pony she's been with for nearly 4 months, and hurt even worse to know she felt a bigger connection with a mare she met the same day, than with Soarin.
"How could I do this.." She vented out-loud, "I'M THE ELEMENT OF LOYALTY! And I couldn't even be loyal to a Wonderbolt!"
"He's never able to do anything with me! All he does is work! The only thing we've done together is a parade!" She rationalized, though in Vain.
She had a change of heart, the subject of he anger now was herself ,"Don't try to give a reason why you cheated on him! Nopony deserves that!...Especially a Wonderbolt, I'm the worst pony I know!" She shrunk into nearly a fetal position.
She knew she had a lot of thinking to do.
For comfort, she kept speaking out loud to herself.
"Ok, Rainbow Dash. You've gotten out of worse things than this. what can I do? It was just a little kiss, wasn't it?" She thought for a second "It wasn't just a little kiss...We kissed twice, and for a long time, and... I loved it! LOVED IT! What's wrong with me?! I kissed a mare and I loved it...Never though I'd say that!"
She turned over in her bed "I need somepony to talk too...BUT WHO? It has to be Fluttershy and Applejack..." No other pony could help more, than two of her best friends, who went through similar struggles. She sat up, and sighed. "I'll fix this..."
She darted into the chilly night, avoiding the clouds she hadn't cleared to save time. A few minutes of flying and she quickly made her way to Fluttershy and Applejack's home near Everfree forest. Completely unrelated to the task at hoof, a thought popped up in her head 'Why does Fluttershy live so close to a forest she's so afraid of...?
"Pleasebeawakepleasebeawakepleasebeawake!" She whispered silently to herself as she approached the door. No matter how much she wanted to be, she knew this wasn't the time to be cool about everything.
She knocked on the door lightly, consciously trying not to disturb the animals she knew were near.
The door opened slowly to reveal Applejack squinting to see who it was.
"R-Rainbow? What in tarnation are ya doin' here? Shouldn't ya be at the party?" Applejack said with her head cocked sideways in confusion.
"I should...but something happened, and you two are the only ones I think i can talk too about this." Rainbow Dash responded, her eyes pleading for them to agree to help her.
"Sure, come on in, Make yerself home, We'll try an' help as much as we can, Ah hope it ain't nothin' too bad!" The orange pony said to the relief of the blue Pegasus.
Rainbow glided over to the couch and sat, as Fluttershy was walking down the stairs.
"Oh, um, hello Rainbow Dash! Why are you here?"
"You know this hard for me to say, because I usually solve my own problems, but something happened at the party after you left and you two are the only ponies I think I can confide in"
"Well, what happened?" Applejack questioned, as she and Fluttershy sat down next to each other.
With a sigh, she confided in her friends, telling them the whole story from when she and Vinyl Scratch first met, to the rising tension between each time they found each other during the party, to her flying away leaving the unicorn alone, a block from the party. The understanding ponies before her calmed her nerves considerably. She knew she went to the right place.
"...And that's when I decided to come here...you guys would understand more than anypony,"
Applejack nodded ,"Ah knew us and Lyra and BonBon couldn't be the only ones," The orange pony mused, trying the shed light on the situation. However, it didn't phase the stressed Pegasus that lay on the couch before her.
"All I know is, I just met her, and I can't just end something I have with Soarin...too many reasons why,"
"Seems to me, yer thinking more about eventually ending everythin' with Soarin' and startin' something with Vinyl Scratch than trying to fix things with Soarin'"
"What I felt with her, I've never felt with Soarin'! And I just met her today..." The pony felt incredibly uncool for expressing her feelings so openly, but still she bit her tongue, knowing it was her only option.
"The thing is...If I ended everything with Soarin, my chances of becoming a Wonderbolt, everything I've lived for! Practically ruined! And even if I did become one, I can't imagine the awkwardness,"
"Golly, Rainbow, Ya sure got yerself into a pickle,"The orange pony said, as she eased into a more comfortable position on the ground ,"Think of yer future, If ya truly don't want to be with Soarin, and you stay with him, if and when ya become a Wonderbolt, You'll spend day an' night with em'! That sounds worse than takin' a chance with somepony new, ya know, especially if ya felt such a connection wth her? And Ah'm sure you can get into the Wonderbolts either way. Knock that nonsense out of yer head,"
"It's situations like these that kept me from gettin' into these lovey-dovey type stuff in the place.." She then took in what Applejack had just said ,"W-when I was around her, I felt like I needed to impress her, I was so, AWKWARD!. For no reason! But when I first really got to know Soarin, I tried to impress him more because he's, well, a Wonderbolt!, not because I really liked him more than a friend..but... I do love him now..it's just not the same as what I felt with Vinyl, not even close,"
Fluttershy smiled, and spoke calmly ,"um, Rainbow, I think this would be something that you would regret someday if you didn't take a chance..we did, and I'm happier with Applejack than I've ever been..."
The orange pony smiled proudly, nodding in agreement.
"Blech. I feel so vulnerable. I'm not used to sharing feelings and whatever. But you guys have cleared a lot up for me. You two are life-savers,"
"Anytime, Rainbow. I understand why ya came to us, and ya can again if ya need too, juss maybe not this late next time, alrighty?" The orange pony gestured towards the clock on their wall, it showing 15 minutes past 10.
"Well, I can't determine when I'm gonna need a problem fixed, this more than big for me..." She took a deep sigh, sinking into her hooves ,"I kissed a mare...twice...N-not that there's anything wrong with it, I just know either way, I'm losing something huge in my life,"
Applejack and Fluttershy stood silently, letting her vent her feelings.
"M-maybe it's because she's almost as cool as me? I don't know!" Her voice rose sharply with a crack ,"WHY ME?"
The shy pegasus, laying on the ground spoke up ,"Look, Rainbow...I think you need to remember this before making these decisions. um, if you're the best flyer, and you are, I mean, You DID do the Sonic Rainboom twice, and nopony else has even done it ONCE! I'm sure whatever you have with Soarin' won't um, effect them letting you in.."
Her logic broke a barrier in the rainbow Pegasus' insecurities about her situation.
"That's a good point...but what if I end it all with Soarin, and then the thing with Vinyl Scratch was only a one time thing? Or what if she found somepony new? I'll be left with nopony!"
"Since when did Rainbow Dash need somepony to BE somepony? Ya ain't even soundin' like yerself. These ponies gotcha all twisted like hay,"
"Hmmm...," Applejack's statement seemed to spur an epiphany for Rainbow Dash ,"You're right Applejack!" Exclaimed the pegasus, flying into the air idly above the couch ,"I think I know what to do now!" She flew towards the door, but Applejack jumped up before she left ,"Now Rainbow, don't think yer gonna leave without tellin' us what yer plan is!"
The pegasus reluctantly flew back onto the couch ,"Alright! Alright! Guess ya two deserve to know, since you helped me and whatever," With the expectant eyes of Fluttershy and Applejack upon her, she explained her plan ,"I ain't gonna end things with Soarin yet, but I am gonna spend time with Vinyl, I need to know if what I feel for her is real...I won't do anything more than hang with her, I can control myself, I hope...If things seem better with Vinyl, Then I'll do what needs to be done, if things seem better with Soarin' then nothin needs to change, if both just ain't workin' out, then this pony will be a lone wolf!" The excited Rainbow Dash finished triumphantly, considerably in a better mood about the conundrum she had gotten herself into.
"Well, good luck with that Rainbow...I hope everythin' turns out better fer ya. Maybe now you can understand me and Fluttershy's feelings for each other better than ya did before all this," The earth pony said, hinting to the pegasus that they knew she treated them differently since they've been together.
"W-was I that obvious about it? I'm sorry" Said the pegasus, disappointed in herself.
"Um, just a little...but it's ok I guess"
"How'd I make it so obvious?" She changed positions in the couch to better the face the two.
"Ya juss seemed, well, different around us ever since we told everypony 'bout us..but it's nothin' now. Ah mean, ya came to us first...that means more than anything," Reassured the orange pony, with an agreeing nod from Fluttershy.
"It's getting late, I'm sure you guys want some alone time, I have a lot to think about, and a lot to do. Whatever I was thinking before about you two, I was wrong. I never realized how perfect you two are for each other..." The Rainbow Pegasus squeezed out a compliment to make sure her past judgments on the couple were somewhat forgotten.
"Thanks Dash, Ah couldn't agree more with ya," Said the orange pony with a loving glance to her partner beside her, "Goodnight!"
"Goodnight!" Said the Rainbow Pony as she exited, but with no intention to go to sleep anytime soon. Launching herself into the cold night air, she once again set her sights on the party at Sugarcube Corner.
|
solsticebrony888
|
1011
| 5 |
Apple Bloom,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Main 6,Soarin,Sweetie Belle,Random,Romance,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A Heart For 2
|
Rainbow Dash meets a pony just as cool as her and it throws her whole romantic life upside down
|
complete
| 54 | 6 |
<p>(Story takes place during the events in AppleShy: The Series, Which isn't required to read this story)</p><p>Rainbow Dash never saw it coming. She was content with everything in her life! Being with Soarin was like living a dream come true, and everything seemed to be going fine! However, when she and her friends attend a party at Sugarcube Corner, she meets a certain somepony who changes everything for her. In the end, how will the events of just one night, change her whole life?</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-01-19T17:52:35+00:00
|
2012-01-19T17:52:35+00:00
| 2,931 |
Now back in front of the crowd of ponies, the strobe lights, crystal ball, and colorful lighting set the mood for another energetic, exciting night, the Unicorn behind it all put on a fake smile, letting the ever so familiar pain of heartbreak drag her down. Her performance on her scratch board didn't change, but her audience interactions were half-hearted, meager even. It didn't matter to the crowd, everypony numb from hours of endless partying, oblivious too all of their surroundings.
However, she knew when she could do better, and it wasn't like her to not do her best. But It was hard for her not to recollect all of the times she's felt the pain she felt at that very moment. Pain she didn't deserve, yet still caused by following her heart. On the podium, in front of a crowd of ponies, all shapes and sizes, she spaced out, reminding herself of a past she didn't want.
In her mind, she regressed until when she was just a little filly, in school. Curled in a ball, in the corner, crying, as the colt she had a crush on, joined a a collective shout mocking her red eyes, spewing insults and calling her a freak. She shuttered at the terrible memory, then left herself on auto-pilot once more as she day dreamed. The teacher came to her rescue so late, she always thought.
A few years after that, she had switched schools, and was then, quite popular. She was more confident, happier, and was definitely more of a hit with the colts. However, she was taken, by the jock of all jocks, a stallion that she considers her first love. She lived her life around him, but still found out the hard way that things just aren't meant to be, when he broke up with her, in front of several of her friends, for her own best friend. She never got over the cruel-heartedness of it all.
She remembered her first encounter with a mare, less than a year before this, where she finally confessed her feelings to a silver earth pony, only to get laughed at in return. It wrecked her in the inside, and shook her confidence for weeks. She eventually got over it, but the memory always remains. With the return of her happiness came her willingness to love again.
As a Dj, she met everypony she knows at her gigs. She knows how to be cool, how to pull all of the tricks, but she always assumed, one way or another, what could have been will be torn away from her with no chance to ever recover it. And tonight, it was only reiterated loud and clear, as if she was meant to be alone. She definitely wasn't a pony that gave up on things, but she was at her breaking point with heartbreaking outcomes to her own bravery. Maybe someday, with somepony else, she always told herself.
"Done with the self-pity, yet?" She asked herself ,"Can't let myself hinder this party with personal problems,"
The return of her enthusiasm showed in her next shout to the crowd, she added some crazy effects, and took the music up a knotch, for the ponies in the crowd with plenty of energy left.
"Yeah, Party now, dwell on yourself later,"
At that moment, the now re-energized Vinyl Scratch received a tap on the shoulder from somepony behind her. She turned around and saw an elated pink pony, beaming at her.
"You're doin' such a good job Vinyl Scratch! I WANT TO THROW YOU A PARTY FOR MAKING THIS PARTY MY BEST PARTY! PARTIES, YAY!...WAIT! Who would I get to DJ your party...? Vinyl would you Dj your own party...?"
"Oh, it's fine Pinkie. Just doing my job. The best way you can thank me is recommendations,"
"I already have! I know EVERYPONY in Ponyville, so I'm sure you'll have some upcoming gigs for sure!" Exclaimed the pink pony, with a squeaky laugh ,"Everypony here has totally had a great time, all because of you!"
"Well, I'm glad It turned out so well. But the night ain't over yet! I plan on making it the best I can!"
"You totally ROCK! But I gotta go now! Customers waiting! BYEE!" And with a spastic hug, the pink pony darted back down into the crowd.
Vinyl Scratch then returned to the scratch board and did her thing. Despite herself, she kept looking at the entrance every now and then.
"Why am I so dramatically upset over somepony I just met?! This isn't like me at all... She must be a really special pony, or there's just something wrong with me," Her thoughts drifted back to their kisses that night ,"Stop thinking about it Vinyl Scratch...Just gonna make tonight a long night,"
Feeling a pit develop in her stomach after a growl, she knew she needed to get something to eat, especially after using her break for something else entirely. After putting on a repetitive beat that could satisfy the crowd, she made way off her podium and left to get some food.
BAM! Suddenly she was knocked down onto her side, immediately cursing her luck. Then she looked up, and saw the sinsiter smile of Rainbow Dash looking down on her.
"I guess this is how we are always gonna meet, huh?" Laughed the pegasus, playing it cool like always, acting as if nothing had happened.
"D-dashie?" She smiled sheepishly as she got up off the ground "I-I'm so glad you're back..."
Rainbow Dash rubbed the back of her neck in embarrassment ,"I'm sorry about earlier.." She sighed for confidence, "Sometimes when I don't think, and make mistakes I regret,"
Vinyl Scratch's heart fluttered, her cheeks red in embarrassment, "What was the..mistake?"
After a bit of the familiar tense silence, Rainbow Spoke up "Well, Scratchy, it was...me leaving,"
I need to stop assuming things...
"Well, you're back now, and that's all that matters to me," She gave her a loving hug, a sentiment that surprised the blue Pegasus.
Her stomach would have to wait, because second chances aren't something she is used too, and she wasn't going to waste this opportunity.
Vinyl Scratch led them to a table as far from the music as she could, so the conversation could be a bit more personal.
"Are you allowed to take another break?" Asked Rainbow Dash as she sat down.
"I honestly do not care right now," She made her intentions clear from the start. Vinyl Scratch sat leaning into her hooves, smiling at Rainbow, making her blush.
"I shouldn't be here..." Said Rainbow, with thoughts of Soarin popping up into her head ,"But I can't help myself,"
Vinyl Scratch smiled confidently ,"There's nothing wrong with hanging out with somepony..."
"Lets cut to the chase..." Rainbow Dash said bluntly, "About earlier this night. I think everything went so fast...When we kissed, I've never felt what I felt with you, with Soarin...But I was thinking a lot about it when I left. This is HUGE for me, I can't let something that happened one night, change my whole life, you know?"
"Yeah...I understand," A look of a disappointment appeared on Vinyl Scratches face.
Rainbow sighed ,"What I mean is...We should dat-" She quickly corrected herself ,"H-hang out before, you know, I make any decisions about me and Soarin,"
"YES! I agree! We just met today, so it only makes sense to date before we make it official!-Wait, Hang out I mean," She corrected herself before Rainbow dash could,"SO, what would you wanna do? Whatever we do, whenever it's on me,"
"Oh don't be silly, Scratchy. We're hanging out, I think it's better if we both pay for our own stuff,"
"Right," She thought for a second ,"Um, we could just hang, not go anywhere special then, like a normal hang out i guess"
Rainbow Dash approved of this idea ,"That sounds like a plan to me!" She declared, with a voice crack.
Vinyl Scratch couldn't hold back a smile as she gazed into the Pegasus' purple eyes. Even with the Pegasus right in front of her, she was already looking forward to spending more time with her, and hopefully, someday, be with her. She didn't want to get too far ahead of herself, though. Never mind that they met that day, even she admitted it was a bit odd to have such feelings for a pony she had just met, but Rainbow Dash wasn't exactly the average pony either.
"HEY RAINBOW DASH! HI VINYL SCRATCH! Since when were you guys friends huh?" A pink pony blurted out from behind Vinyl Scratch.
"Since tonight!" Said Rainbow Dash, careful not to trigger any sort of Pinkie Sense.
"Well, that's cool! More friends the merrier! That's why EVERYPONY is my friend!" Pinkie Pie said with a giggle ,"So what can I get you two?"
"FOOD!" blurted Vinyl Scratch mindlessly, immediately feeling the growing pit in her stomach.
"...What kind of food? hehe!"
"Ummmmmmmm, A sandwich?"
"Okie Dokie Lokie! It's totally on the house since you've done such a great job with the party," she turned to Rainbow Dash ,"What do you want Rainbow?"
The pegasus rubbed her chin with her hoof ,"Hmmm, I'll have a sandwich also I guess, thanks Pinkie,"
"Okie Dokie Lokie! I'll be back in a jiffy!" The pink darted away and back impossibly fast with their food already made, litterally back in a jiffy ,"HERE!"
"H-how did you..."
Pinkie Pie darted away once more, before the unicorn finished her sentence. Vinyl Scratch stared at Rainbow Dash assuming she knew how, since they've been friends for a lot longer.
Rainbow Dash just shrugged ,"She does too many things like that for anypony to waste their time figuring out how. I just chalk it up to Pinky Pie being Pinkie Pie,"
They laughed a little together, but the DJ was still confused.
,"I mean, she was- I mean, like left and came back in half a seco-"
"Scratchy, It's just Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie, If you try and think about how she did it, you'll hurt your brain,"
"But-,"
"PINKIE PIE BEING PINKIE PIE. Now, Eat your Sandwich," joked Rainbow Dash, giggling at the dumfounded pony in front of her.
"Ok ok! jeez!" She responded with a chuckle. She took off her goggles, then took a massive bite out of her sandwich.
"Ya know, I've never met a pony with red eyes before?" Rainbow said at the site of the unicorn's eyes.
"Why? Do you like em?"
"Well YEAH. I love em," Rainbow Dash said casually, much more comfortable around the unicorn.
"Hehe, you won't believe it, but I used to get picked on, a LOT just because of them," Vinyl Scratch said, then taking another hulking bite in her food.
"Meh, I believe you, I got picked on because back in flight school I used to be kind of a sloppy flyer, and these jerks called me Rainbow Crash every time I did. They even did the day I did the Sonic Rainboom!,"
"They called you Rainbow Crash when you did the Sonic Rainboom?! What the herd?!"
"Oh, no, before I did it I failed at doing some tricks, It was nothin', they apologized after anyways. That's the day I met..." She paused, putting her head on her hooves ,"Soarin..."
Vinyl Scratch noticed the Pegasus's sadness, and needed to do something. Thinking fast, an idea popped into her head.
"Hey Dashie, Wanna be Dj again?" She said with a smile, handing her goggles over to her.
"Really?!?!? SWEET!" Rainbow Dash beamed.
She knew she wasn't going to leave until the party was over.
|
solsticebrony888
|
1011
| 6 |
Apple Bloom,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Main 6,Soarin,Sweetie Belle,Random,Romance,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A Heart For 2
|
Rainbow Dash meets a pony just as cool as her and it throws her whole romantic life upside down
|
complete
| 54 | 6 |
<p>(Story takes place during the events in AppleShy: The Series, Which isn't required to read this story)</p><p>Rainbow Dash never saw it coming. She was content with everything in her life! Being with Soarin was like living a dream come true, and everything seemed to be going fine! However, when she and her friends attend a party at Sugarcube Corner, she meets a certain somepony who changes everything for her. In the end, how will the events of just one night, change her whole life?</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-01-19T18:26:10+00:00
|
2012-01-19T18:26:10+00:00
| 3,524 |
Rainbow had been sitting in her bed thinking constantly for over an hour. It was early morning and she had absolutely no clue what she could do to mend the situation she had gotten herself into. She thought about Soarin, the pony she has been with for 4 months, how ending it with him could possibly be detrimental to her chances of joining the Wonderbolts. Even being with him for 4 months, she didn’t know how he would react at the fact she had cheated on him. He could sabotage her chances of getting in just because of spite. Hiding it from him wasn’t an option either. Rainbow Dash felt that keeping something from somepony was just as bad as lying them every day.
She thought about the night before. When she flew back from Applejack and Fluttershy’s house, she surprised the Unicorn with another tackle, and from then on out had a great time like nothing had happened. The whole night she and Vinyl Scratch had a great time, Rainbow Dash Dj-ing the last hour and a half of the party into the earliest hours of the morning. They didn’t kiss again, or even talk about their kisses from hours earlier. It was apparent to Rainbow Dash that they’d good Friends and nothing more if she stayed with Soarin, even though she knew she still had feelings for her.
Rainbow Dash knew that if she stayed with Soarin, and didn't give that mare from the party another chance, she'd never get over it. She sunk into her hooves more. She had no choice but to tell the truth. Rainbow Dash could lie like the best, but not when it came to hurting somepony else.
Through a window just a few feet above her, she saw the sun peeking its way through, a sign she always used to decide when to go visit Soarin before he goes to work. If she decided to not go to see him, she assumed that he probably wouldn’t mind considering that he knows that she went to the party the night before.
But that would be dishonest of her. She knew she could see him this morning, but she definitely couldn’t admit everything then. It would probably ruin both of their days and putting in a bad mood before he works with the Wonderbolts just seems dangerous.
Rainbow Dash made up her mind she wanted to see Soarin before he left to work. After floating out of her bed, and stretching because she had been in basically the same position for over an hour, she made her way to the door and exited. She stopped in her tracks, her eyes hurting from the brightness of the sun. Even she, a weather pony, didn’t know it was going to be such a sunny day. It made sense to her after a moment of thinking. To have a sunny day after a rainy day is how they’ve always had done it since she joined the team. After blinking a few times, she darted out in her daily path to Soarin’s home where he should still be.
During her flight there, she summarized her problems to herself.
I love Soarin, and I know I do. I kissed another mare twice and I loved it. Well, she wasn’t just another mare; she’s the coolest mare I’ve ever met. I still have feelings for her. I need to find a way to tell both of them and not hurt them...somehow
“Gah!” Rainbow Dash shouted out in frustration as she flew over the center of town, “It is it even possible to get out of this without even hurting somepony?”
Why did I even get into this love stuff? I should have known even with a Wonderbolt that I’d take him for granted and want more and ruin everything Then she thought the most important question she had.
Is it fair to stay with somepony if you know you love another pony too?
Rainbow Dash sighed. These kinds of dilemmas are not what she is used to. The Pegasus didn’t want to bother Applejack and Fluttershy again either. They didn’t deserve to get roped even more into her personal problems.
I used to always judge Applejack and Fluttershy for their choices, and now I understand why they did it…I should apologize to them again It made the Pegasus feel embarrassed when she thought about how obvious she made her disapproval of their choices in the past.
Maybe I should give Vinyl a chance…take a break from Soarin, and try things with Vinyl
In a perfect world for Rainbow Dash, Soarin would be ok with a break and would let her try things with Vinyl Scratch. After a while if she didn’t feel it going anywhere, she could go back to Soarin, stay best friends with the unicorn and live life that way. Or stay with Vinyl if things go well with her and be best friends with Soarin.
Wouldn’t everypony just think I’m copying Applejack and Fluttershy?
She shook her head at her own thought That shouldn’t even matter, who cares what anypony thinks!
It took her a little bit to realize that during her day dreaming she had passed Soarin’s house completely and was heading towards Cloudsdale. She also completely failed to notice Pinkie Pie trying to get her attention, now long gone back in Ponyville.
Staying up all night must be getting to me…
She forcefully yawned trying to wake herself up, then turned around and headed towards the stallion’s home, now adjusting her path to look out for Soarin to see if he had left already.
Maybe I should be single…be friends with the two, hopefully
Rainbow Dash liked this idea. It was her most logical considering that the two ponies she’s involved with would probably understand why she did it. It was also the hardest for her to imagine herself doing. She’d basically be breaking things off with two very important ponies in her life because she can’t choose between them.
Celestia help me, I helped save Equestria twice, cut me some slack!
It was then when she was pulled from behind, nearly scaring her to death. When she realized it was Soarin, she smiled automatically, not conveying her true feelings but Soarin wasn’t very good at telling when she was hiding something anyway.
“Hey beautiful! How was the party last night! I’m surprised you’re even up!”
The Wonderbolt and the mare flew side-by-side, now setting their course on his work.
“O-Oh, y-yeah, it was great,” Rainbow Dash said unconvincingly. Even she didn’t know why, the party was perfect in her eyes.
Soarin frowned, “Look Rainbow, I’m sorry I couldn’t come. Duty calls, you know. But I do have some good news,”
The mare looked at him expectantly.
“I’m going to use a day off or two to spend some time with you tomorrow and the next,”
Rainbow Dash smiled half-heartedly, “Well, I-“ Her voice trailed off. Don’t confess now and ruin his day, “That sounds great,” Once again, the Rainbow Pegasus responded less enthusiastic than the stallion expected. He slowed to a stop in mid-air, above part of the outer-edge of Ponyville, Cloudsdale still in their sights.
She could see he looked confused even through his outfit for work.
“Is there something wrong Rainbow Dash? Because you’re not nearly exited as I thought you would be,” He said this in a serious tone bothering the Rainbow Pegasus.
She put on a fake laugh as if he was being weird, “No, silly! Why would there be? I’m super exited,” Her whole plan from the get-go was to not lie to anypony and realizing she just did made her feel terrible.
Soarin thought for a moment, “Dash, if there’s something you need to say, just say it,”
`The mare sighed, “Can’t you wait until later…”
”For what?” The stallion looked at her, crossing his hooves. His whole demeanor changed as he started to take guesses in his mind at why she would hide something from him.
”Look, Soarin, I’d rather talk to you later, in not such a public area,”
Soarin looked all around them, “We’re in the middle of the air with nopony near us, Dash,”
“I don’t want to ruin you day,” Her last excuse now exhausted, she knew she really didn’t have a choice if he presses further.
“Whatever it is, it won’t. It’s a rule when I joined the Wonderbolts to not let life interfere with the job,”
Rainbow Dash frowned, “Well, last night I met a mare,"
The stallion squinted at her, at a loss to what he should expect her to say, and stood silent waiting for her to continue.
Rainbow Dash smiled awkwardly despite feeling terrible, "and uh, well I’ll cut to the chase. We kissed,”
Soarin's heart sank and look away from the mare in front of him, but didn’t speak.
The mare continued, “Yes, a mare…and today, I realized how… well-“
“I knew this was gonna happen…” Soarin interrupted, turning his back to Rainbow Dash. He didn’t feel angry or vengeful, or even hurt. He felt sad knowing he could have prevented this. He placed all the blame on himself, without even hearing the whole story.
“What was?” She questioned, her heart fluttering at the genuine sadness she saw in him.
“I haven’t exactly been the best to you, I actually sort of expected this-well… I expected you to break up with me, which is why I was setting up all these days just for us…”
“I’m really really really sorry, Soarin, I didn’t want to hurt anypony with this…” Rainbow Dash felt terrible knowing she did this right as their relationship could have gotten much better.
He turned around to face her again, still hanging in mid-air, calm and collected, “I-I guess I was too late huh?” He said with a saddened laugh.
“It’s not like I don’t love you, Soarin…but I can’t lie to you. I hung out with her the whole night, we only kissed twice, and that was at once…but I can’t shake the feeling I’ll be losing something big in my life if I let her or you go,” Half of herself hated herself for telling the truth, but the other half knew it was what she had to do, whatever the outcome.
They stood in mid-air, avoiding eye contact for nearly a minute. Rainbow Dash so far had done what she had set out to do. Be truthful, not hide anything. She wanted his trust in her, whether they were together or not, and being truthful without delaying anything could be her best shot. The rainbow Pegasus always knew Soarin as a trustful stallion, somepony she could also trust in more than anypony else besides ponies like Applejack or Pinkie Pie. She looked beyond their relationship and knew she was still talking to a Wonderbolt, one of her idols which she respected more than most ponies before even meeting him. It made the fact she betrayed him that much worse on her conscious.
“I appreciate your honesty, Dash. But… I love you a-and I don’t want this to mean the end of us, you know? I-I-I’ve said to you countless times that I love you no matter what, and I meant it”
This surprised Rainbow Dash, her heart sinking a ton, “I love you too, but I don’t know what to do… and it’s unfair for me to say that-…I don’t even know…I-I’m just so confused!” She exclaimed with a frustrated sigh.
Soarin took another moment to think. He had been assuming this would happen for a while, but in the back of his mind never EXPECTED it to actually happen, even if he told Rainbow that he did. He knew in the bottom of his heart that something would have to give eventually, but he just ignored it because he had no choice. They had gotten together right as his work demands had increased substantially due to an air-show tour they’re about to do across Equestria. It was probably the worst time for them to get together and he knew it. He soon came to a decision in his mind, lifting his head up to look at Rainbow Dash in the eyes.
"I-I think we need to take a break, Rainbow…"
Rainbow Dash heard what he said, but never expected him to be the one to say it, and it felt weird to her. Even when she had expected this, now that it was happening she felt an odd numbness as a reaction to what he said. Lost in thought, she didn’t respond to him so Soarin continued.
“I want you to use this time to, well-“ He looked up at her again, “I want you to use this time to find out which of us you really love, because it isn’t fair for me to know you love somepony else too, a-and…well, maybe the fact you have to find out who you love more is all I need to know…but we’ll see”
Rainbow Dash looked down again, she didn’t feel she should look at him, “I-I understand, I’m so sorry Soarin…”
He turned around and started flying away slowly, Rainbow flying beside him once again.
“If you do decide to give us another shot, I promise you that things between us would be much better,”
They stopped and hung in mid-air once again, having arrived in front of the building he enters for his work. This was the last conversation they would have as a couple for what could be forever; and it hit Rainbow Dash with an odd sadness she didn’t expect. For the past few hours she had expected this outcome and felt relatively ok about it because she knew she deserved it. However, now that it was happening, she struggled to hide the tears welling up inside her. Rainbow Dash’s logic helped her accept that she wouldn’t be with him much longer, even though she loved him. However, Rainbow knew that if she does truly love him, she’ll still feel this pain as long as the break lasts.
They talked for a while before he went into work. It was hard for both of them; even though they both knew it was unavoidable. The spoke about how long it would last, and decided that there was no point in determining a set date for them to reunite. Rainbow Dash apologized a few more times even though Soarin seemed to have been taking the news well. Soarin left it up to Rainbow Dash to come to him when she made a decision, no matter what the decision was.
At Soarin’s request they kissed one last time before going their separate ways. The same question reoccurred for both of them as they went through the rest of their days.
Was that our last kiss?
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solsticebrony888
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1011
| 7 |
Apple Bloom,DJ P0N-3,Derpy Hooves,Main 6,Soarin,Sweetie Belle,Random,Romance,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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A Heart For 2
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Rainbow Dash meets a pony just as cool as her and it throws her whole romantic life upside down
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complete
| 54 | 6 |
<p>(Story takes place during the events in AppleShy: The Series, Which isn't required to read this story)</p><p>Rainbow Dash never saw it coming. She was content with everything in her life! Being with Soarin was like living a dream come true, and everything seemed to be going fine! However, when she and her friends attend a party at Sugarcube Corner, she meets a certain somepony who changes everything for her. In the end, how will the events of just one night, change her whole life?</p>
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everyone
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2012-01-19T18:44:00+00:00
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2012-01-19T18:44:00+00:00
| 7,883 |
After her conversation with Soarin, Rainbow Dash went back to her home and slept. She had been up for over 24 hours and was absolutely exhausted, the stress of admitting her mistake to Soarin took what little energy she had left. It took a while for the fact that she’s single to hit her. She had gotten in such a rhythm on a daily basis based off of being with Soarin, and now that they’re on a ‘break’, every time she’d usually do something to see Soarin, she’d be reminded that they really aren’t together anymore. Rainbow Dash had to look at bright side, though. Just to make herself feel a little better. She could finally explore her feelings for Vinyl Scratch without consequence.
Still lying in her bed, she had been awake for 20 minutes just thinking about what happened and what’s to come. Rainbow Dash had slept for only about 5 hours and felt pretty exhausted, but unable to go back to sleep, encircling thoughts keeping her mind in a haze. She continued to think about what she could do, but continually came to no conclusion and was at a loss to what she should do next. Give it time and see if she wants Soarin back before even giving Vinyl a chance? Give Vinyl Scratch a chance and go from there? It wasn’t like she had a lot of choices, she just couldn’t decide. The Pegasus had been continually thinking for several hours when she was interrupted by a few very light knocks on the door, causing her to sigh loudly.
“Who is it?” She said, too lazy to get up and answer it.
The Pegasus was only met with some sort of quiet voice she couldn’t even understand
“Louder! I can’t hear you,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed with a crack in her voice, slightly agitated.
When she was only met with another mumble, she lazily flew out of her bed and begrudgingly opened the door, to see Fluttershy looking at her with an embarrassed look on her face.
Rainbow Dash felt stupid when she realized she should have known in was Fluttershy right away. Feeling relieved to see her friend, Rainbow Dash greeted her with a smile, “Hey Fluttershy! What’s up?”
“Um nothing really, well, me and Applejack were in the area and were wondering how everything was um, well, going and if you’d like to walk with us,”
“Of course! But…where’s Applejack…?”
“She’s an earth pony; she can’t stand on clouds….”
Rainbow Dash giggled at her own naiveté, “Oh right, hehe, where’re you guys going?”
Fluttershy thought for a second, “Well…anywhere really, we were bored and decided to take a walk since Applejack has the day off from sweet apple acres,”
“Howdy Partner!” Yelled Applejack from below, as the two Pegasi lowered to meet her, “Hows everything goin’ with yer situation an’ all,”
Rainbow Dash frowned, but knew what to say, “I, um, well I don’t know what to think…me and Soarin are on a ‘break’ now,”
The two Pegasi landed on both sides of the earth pony and walked away from the rainbow Pegasus’ home in the clouds.
“How’d he take it?”
“Well, he did it, not me,” Rainbow Dash said with an awkward smile, but not knowing why.
Applejack shrugged and put on a confident smile, “Well ah’m sure now ya can do what ya want with that mare ya were talkin’ ‘bout!”
Rainbow Dash looked down, “Don’t you think, me going after Vinyl Scratch so fast would well, insult Soarin, I mean we were together for 4 months….”
“Vinyl Scr-Wait, ya mean that Dj pony from Pinkie’s Party?” Applejack said, the gears clicking into place in her mind,”Ohhhhhhhhh! Ah shoulda seen that coming from a mile away, ah reckon. Hay, we juss talked to her at Sugarcube Corner!”
The realization that Vinyl Scratch was at Sugarcube Corner made her heart flutter, realizing if she chose too, she could see her today…single. Rainbow Dash blushed despite herself, realizing she hadn’t told them before now, and hadn’t planned to. She liked to keep her relationships to herself for a while before anypony else could interfere, more a way to just enjoy the thrill of being in a relationship without anypony else knowing. Up until recently, barely anypony even knew about her and Soarin.
“That’s soooo cute, Rainbow. She’s so cool, and um, you are too, you’re like perfect for each other…” Fluttershy gushed, with a smile causing Rainbows cheeks to redden with embarrassment.
Rainbow Dash then let out a flurry of unintelligible nonsense in frustration, wiping the smile off of the shy pony’s face.
“Sometimes I wish I never met her,” The Pegasus exclaimed with frustrated sigh, “B-but then I wouldn’t have known what I could feel for somepony else, what I felt for her… I guess you two know what I mean better than ANYPONY…I hate to admit it, but I never felt what I felt with Vinyl when I was with Soarin, but I still feel terrible, and I still love Soarin, “ She sighed, lowering her head, thoughts running rampant, “It’s just…different, ya know?”
It was one of the things the Pegasus had contemplated meticulously, but never came to her own conclusion. How can one moment you feel in love with one pony, then somepony else comes along and change everything so fast?
As they kept walking with no destination, it made her feel better that she always had friends that would support her, and with Applejack and Fluttershy, two that even go out of their way just to check in on her.
“Ah think ya juss need to think thangs over some more, ‘sall. Ah know what yer goin’ through, and ah think just hanging with friends and such will be best until yer ready to talk to Vinyl or Soarin ah reckon,” Applejack said, then continued when Dash didn’t respond, “Ya could wait fer a while and decide then,”
“I don’t want to wait!” Rainbow Dash blurted out, “I want to see her now, I want to tell her I’m ready to…well whatever! But then I feel guilt about Soarin and I know, I really know that waiting would be best for me, but it’s not like waiting stops me from thinking about her!”
“I don’t know, Rainbow Dash. If you give yourself more time to calm down, it um, may clear things up for you,” Fluttershy said shyly, with an agreeing nod from Applejack.
“I just don’t know what to do, it’s like, not matter I do, I’m gonna regret something,”
Despite Rainbow Dash’s obvious distress about her whole situation, Applejack chuckled.
“Now what are you laughing about?” The rainbow Pegasus said, slightly defensive.
“Now, now, Rainbow. Ah’ve known ya fer over a very long time an’ never seen ya so gung ho ‘bout somepony before. Ah also never seen ya actually THINK before doin’ somethin’, ya usually juss go with yer gut. Maybe that’s why everythin’s so hard fer you right now, yer juss over-thinkin’”
“WELL, not ‘thinking’ before doing something got me into this mess,”
“And ah think it’ll getcha out of it too,”
This piqued Dash’s interest, “How so?”
“Ah think ya obviously have somethin’ special with Vinyl, and there ain’t no need to wait. Ah mean, whats the point in waitin’ when yer juss gonna fret ‘bout it the whole time. But ah guess that’s just my opinion Rainbow, no need to take it to heart or nothin’” The three ponies entered the middle of town, where Sugarcube Corner was. It wasn’t very far from them, and Rainbow Dash knew they had had led her to town on purpose once they knew the mare she kissed was Vinyl Scratch.
Applejack’s words resonated in the Pegasus' head. Ya obviously have somethin’ special with Vinyl…
She stopped suddenly, causing the other two to follow suit. Rainbow Dash was deep in thought, but her mind was already made.
“I think I know what I’m gonna do,” The rainbow Pegasus said, lifting her head up, a new air of confidence surrounding her. Applejack and Fluttershy just looked at her expectantly.
“You guys, um, don’t mind if I leave right now?”
Applejack smiled, knowing exactly what Rainbow Dash was going to do, “Of course not Rainbow,”
Before she left, Rainbow Dash turned back towards her friends with a smile, “I don’t know how to say this,” The Pegasus said, rubbing the back of her neck in embarrassment, “Um, thank you, like, a LOT, because I don’t think I would have handled this well without you two helping so much, I mean, like yeah. You know how hard it is for me to admit stuff like that…”
“And that’s why it means so much, Rainbow…yer awfully welcome,” Applejack said with a sly smile on her face, “Now go get ‘er!”
Rainbow Dash was in front of Sugarcube Corner in just a few seconds, as Applejack and Fluttershy made their way back to wherever they were going. She flew idly in front of the entrance to the cake shop, trying not to let her racing thoughts deter her from doing what she felt she needed to do. Nervousness crept up on her, realizing it was only about 2 days ago that she last saw the unicorn, yet she felt like it was months. Nopony has ever made her feel this way, and it made her very nervous despite herself.
Hearing a noise behind her, Rainbow Dash turned around, just to be greeted with the sight of leaf filled pathway into the center of town. After shrugging off whatever she heard, she turned around to face the entrance, feeling the immense pressure of what she was about to do.
“Should I go in or not, should I go in or not, should I go in or no-“Rainbow Dash said spastically, once again finding herself talking to herself for comfort.
Maybe she’s not there, or left early, what if I’m just doing this for nothing...?
Rainbow Dash looked for a window, but saw none she wanted to risk being seen through. She paced her breathing, calming herself down. She sighed.
Why am I so nervous? It feels weird, stop it!
As natural as it had ever been, the Rainbow Pegasus put on a cool front, leaning her hoof forward to push the door open.
“Hey Dashie, w-what’re you doing?“ With a confused smile on her face, Vinyl Scratch's soft voice came from behind the Pegasus, who instantly launched herself into a cloud during a few moments of panic.
Rainbow Dash looked down awkwardly from the random cloud she was now perched in, her cheeks burning with embarrassment and nervousness upon the sight of the giggling unicorn, her heart beating at a million miles per hour.
This is it…
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“OMIGOSH. OMIGOSH. It’s Vinyl Scratch! How are you! OMIGOSH, I need to get you a free cake! For being so awesome, maybe sing you a so-” The pink pony jumped around the shop ecstatically as the unicorn made her way in and sat comfortably at a table.
“That won’t be necessary Pinkie Pie! I’d rather just pay. I’m only going to be in Ponyville until maybe tomorrow, and I’d rather-well, I’d rather just pay, I have extra bits on me,”
In an instant, the pink pony was inches away from the unicorns face, her workers cap nearly falling off, “OKIE DOKIE LOKIE! What can I getcha? Maybe a CAKE FOR FREE?”
“Just a cake, minus the free,” Vinyl Scratch said with a chuckle.
“HMPH. But I feel like If I say ok, it’ll make me look like a super duper meanie mc-mean pants!”
“I’ll pay Pinkie Pie, don’t worry!” Vinyl Scratch said waving her hooves dismissively at the thought of being treated to a free desert, “I mean it. Don’t worry, it’s completely fine!”
“Okie Dokie Lokie Artichokey Vinyl…ochey? Be right back!” The pink pony darted into the kitchen humming merrily. Clearly it was her duty to run the whole shop that day, Mr. and Ms. Cake nowhere in sight.
Vinyl Scratch chuckled despite herself, settling herself into her seat as she waited. Putting her head on her hoof, she starting scanning the shop for anything interesting, just to distract herself while she waited for her slice of cake. Having no more gigs in Ponyville lined up for several weeks, she really didn’t know why she was even still in Ponyville. Well, she did, and with a depressing sigh, she tried to ignore the re-surfacing thoughts of the Rainbow Pegasus.
It had been Vinyl Scratch’s mission the past few days to discover why she felt so attached to a pony after just one night. It just didn’t seem like something like that was possible, especially for her. She had never believed in love at first sight, and still feels reluctant to accept it. And now, the unicorn finds herself once again blushing just at the thought purple-eyed Pegasus.
Who would have thought that meeting a pony so cool would make me act so…uncool
“Howdy partner! Didn’t see ya there!” Somepony said, knocking Vinyl Scratch out of her daydream.
The unicorn jumped, but quickly regained her cool at the sight of an earth pony and Pegasus she recognized, but couldn’t name.
“Oh uh, hey!” Vinyl responded awkwardly, soon wanting to kick herself for how she stammered out the greeting.
“Ah don’t know if ya remember us, but we were that party ya hosted a few days ago, ah just wanted ta say ya did great! Me and Fluttershy here had a awfully good time ah reckon!” The earth pony complimented, standing in front of the sitting Unicorn.
“It was...really nice…” The Pegasus agreed with a tiny smile.
The earth pony mentioning Fluttershy’s name rang a bell, causing Vinyl Scratch to smile warmly at the mare couple that Rainbow Dash had spoken of.
“I remember you too, sorta! Rainbow Dash told me all about you two at the party! You’re um, Applejack right?” The unicorn said casually, not intending on admitting her true feelings for the Pegasus to two ponies she barely knew.
“Yes Ma’am, may ah ask what she said 'bout us?"
“Oh nothing much,” She lied, Rainbow had gushed about her guilt for judging the mare-couple so harshly, after their intimate moment earlier that night. Vinyl Scratch continued, “Basically she said that you two are her friends…yeah that’s it. Nice to meet you!” The unicorn mused, graciously smiling at the two mares in front of her.
Applejack and Fluttershy smiled in return, “Pleasure’s all mine!, “ The earth pony said, placing her fore-hoof on her chest, then continued, “Ah guess we’ll get outta yer mane, going to visit Rainbow Dash right now! Can’t wait fer one yer next party,” The earth pony said in a matter-of-fact way, as she turned towards the door.
“B-bye-,” Vinyl Scratch stammered, distracted by what Applejack had just said.
they know where she is? The unicorn thought, heart fluttering. Should I ask to tag along? No... should I ask them to tell Rainbow to come here after? What should I do…?
Her mouth opened, but no words came out; right as Applejack and Fluttershy exited the shop. The frustrated unicorn sighed and put her head in her hooves. It seemed to her that the past few days, if not her whole life was just a collection of missed opportunities to love somepony, almost always due to something out of her own control, making everything for her go wrong.
In Vinyl Scratches mind, after the party, Rainbow Dash probably saw Soarin and realized that she regretted their kisses, and wanted to stay with Soarin. Forget everything about the unicorn and move on, as if what they had between each other was just a fleeting feeling between two ponies that had just met. However in Vinyl Scratch’s mind, she felt much more for the Pegasus in contrast to what she assumed Rainbow Dash felt for her.
How could I even possibly compete with a stallion? Let alone a Wonderbolt…
“What am I thinking? I haven’t even talked to her since that night, why do assume the worst every time?” She spoke out loud to add emphasis to the point she was making, “Maybe if I just hold my head up high, and just be…I don’t even know, But I shouldn’t be letting this stuff get to me,”
“No you shouldn’t! Now here’s your cake!”
Vinyl Scratch jumped again, “Holy equine, you scared me half to death Pinkie Pie!” They both laughed it off making it a little less embarrassing for the unicorn. She’s always had a bad habit of nearly knocking herself out of her seat when startled.
Pinkie Pie giggled, “I was thinking of pranking you somehow, because that’s just something I LOVE to do, but then my Pinkie-Sense picked up that there was a sad-pony near-by and I can tell it's you. It made me sad, to see YOU sad. I don’t wanna be sad anymore so can you tell me why you’re so sad? Tell aunt Pinkie Pie why you’re sad, because I don’t want to be sad”
“Nothing’s wrong at all, thanks for caring though…” She gave up on her lie halfway through it; a loud sigh afterwards giving it away. She knew venting could be just what she needs.
Pinkie Pie sat down at the table, “Come on, tell your friend Pinkie what’s wrong!”
Well, here goes
“Well, I’m just…confused. There this…er-stallion I really really like, and it seems as if he’s just going to forget about me because he’s been with somepony else longer, and I felt so much for him...”
The spastic pony in front of her frowned, “Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry to hear that. Does he know how you feel? You can’t keep your emotions all bottled up inside, that’s why I’m always un-bottling my happiness!”
“I hope so…” Vinyl Scratch said with a sad tone to her voice, “We only met at the party…but I felt something so…so special with her- HIM,” Her heart fluttered at her slight mistake, luckily the pink pony didn’t look into it much.
“Do you think he felt it too? Like the little fuzzy wuzzies in your tummy when you see each other? I just LOVE Fuzzie wuzzies!” Pinkie Pie giggled warmly at her own statement.
“More than that…well, for me it was more, I don’t know about him…”
“I think you should just tell him! Don’t be scared, just be truthful! I think you’ll be super duper happier whether he shares the feelings too, because you didn’t bottle yours up. OMIGOSH. That’s a song! That’s a song! And I’m gonna write it!” Pinkie drifted off into her own world, humming her own ideas of her future song. The unicorn pony just took in what she said. Pinkie Pie basically just reiterated what she had been thinking, but knowing somepony shared her views made them much easier for her to grasp.
“Hey Vinyl, why don’t you have your goggles with you? It’s like, sooooo weird to see you without them!” Pinkie Pie’s head tilted to the side as if she was imagining Vinyl Scratch with them on.
Surprised, the unicorn felt aimlessly around her chest to where they usually hang when she’s not wearing them; just to be met with air.
“Awe, hayseed, I think I must have dropped them on the way here!" Vinyl Scratch got uo from her seat, "I’ll be back soon for that cake!”
“Okie dokie lokie!” Pinkie Pie said, hopping up from her chair with a giggle.
The light shined brightly when she exited Sugarcube Corner, causing Vinyl Scratch to instinctively reach for her goggles again. She laughed at her own stupidity.
The moment I lose something seems to always be the time I need it…
With a sigh, she trotted the general direction in which she had come from. She scanned each tree, each bush, anything that it could have fallen into, and the general path where it could be laying in clear sight. The unicorn wondered how it could have fallen off of her back without her noticing, and wondered why she had it on her back in the first place.
Vinyl Scratch doesn’t like the heat; the blazing warmth was her whole purpose of stopping by Sugarcube Corner in the first place, just to escape it. And now, she was looking for goggles she’s had since she was a young filly and it started making her quite uneasy without them being in sight.
Come on come on come on come on! She was nearly shouting in her own thoughts.
Knowing today was most likely her last day in Ponyville; she wanted to find them as quick as possible, she couldn’t host a party without her signature goggles! More-so now that her natural laziness limits her to searching no more than 15 minutes before she just decided to give up, on the goggles she's had since she was a filly, no less!
It was after she turned around, when she spotted them under a pile of leaves she had failed to search through.
Should’ve known, they just did the running of the leaves yesterday…
With a relived sigh, she used her magic to put them on, her world now instantly covered in a hazy purple color from the tint.
Leaving back towards Sugarcube Corner, she felt much better and was trotting happily. Her stomach growled loudly, now wanting the cake even more than when she had first arrived.
Mood uplifted, Vinyl Scratch happily trotted back in the direction of Sugarcube Corner eagerly awaiting her treat. Turning around, the light wind she had failed to notice now bothered her, making her constantly have to shake her mane out of her face.
At least it cools me down…
With the entrance to Sugarcube Cube corner in sight, she spotted a Pegasus flying idly front, doing nothing. Vinyl Scratch lifted up her goggles reluctantly to see who it was.
Is that…?
With surprised squeal, she instantly threw herself behind a bush before Rainbow Dash could see her. Unsure if she was just imagining things, the peered through the bush, heart warmed at the sight of the Pegasus.
“Yes!” She said in an ecstatic whisper, “Be cool, Scratch!”
All her previous sadness and confusion was replaced by an air of confidence. She's always worked well under pressure, not letting her nervousness get to her. No matter what the end result was, she was going to have this pony in her life as hers or as her friend.
“I can’t believe my luck!” Vinyl said aloud. Maybe, just maybe, I still have a chance!
Quickly fixing her mane, something that she’s never done before meeting somepony, she started trotting confidently towards the Pegasus. Vinyl Scratch didn't know what she was going to say, but it didn’t matter to her. She just wanted to see her.
The unicorn approached her silently, smiling at the sight of the Pegasus, who was then searching for something on the building.
“Hey Dashie, w-what’re you doing?“ The unicorn said happily, Rainbow Dash instantly bolting into a cloud above her. Vinyl Scratch covered her mouth as she giggled quietly to herself.
Rainbow Dash looked down, clearly blushing even though she was 50 feet in the air. Bolting out of the cloud, she thought of an excuse on the spot, “Oh, I was just, flying into the cloud randomly, because…it’s for my job…because we...fly into clouds randomly, completely unprovoked!” She stammered, heart beating fast.
“I thought I wasn’t going to see you before I return to Manehatten,” Vinyl Scratch said, accepting the Pegasus’ lie on purpose, “I thought a lot of things…”
The all-to-familiar tense silence returned along with the quickening heart beats, the rush of emotion just by being in sight of each other. Rainbow Dash landed, cheeks ablaze from a mixture of embarrassment and nervousness.
“Well, you know…” Was all Rainbow Dash could say, rubbing the back of her neck awkwardly.
“I’m sorry, for, well. You know,” The unicorn said, both mares squirming at the subject, “I-I had a lot of fun the other night and I was kinda hoping we could hang out again sometime, if you know, it’s ok with Soarin...I really hope I didn’t ruin everything,”
Rainbow dash sighed, but the feelings she felt remained, “We-we’re…I’m” Unable to produce a coherent sentence, she flailed her hooves in frustration, “I’m here, because I was told you’d be here and no, you didn’t ruin anything, I’m just so…” Rainbow Dash's voice cracked, making her cheeks redden once more.
Minds racing, emotions flaring up, Vinyl Scratch smiled shyly, her face making the Pegasus’ unsure about how to go about this opportunity, “I, well…” The unicorn took off her goggles, wanting to see the Pegasus without a purple hue around her.
Rainbow Dash’s heart fluttered at the sight of her ruby-red eyes, catching her completely off-guard. She loves her eyes.
The unicorn blushed in response to the rainbow Pegasus’ reaction, but kept her cool, “Did you really come here for me?” Vinyl Scratch said, touched by the sentiment.
“Yeah, well…I missed you Scratchy, I don’t know why, but I don’t think I’ve ever missed anypony so much,”
The unicorn, lowered her head, trying to use her mane to block her increasingly reddening cheeks, “I missed you too, you don't even know.. I didn’t even get any sleep last night, because I was planning on going back to Manehatten tomorrow, and I didn’t expect to see you,”
Rainbow Dash finally loosened up, knowing the feelings she held for her were mutual, “Well I’ll just go with ya! I kinda like Dj’ing a lot; I could probably teach YOU a thing or two,”
Vinyl Scratch giggled louder than she expected at Rainbow Dash’s joke,even the fun loving crazy pony in front her squinted at the oddness of her laugh, but didn’t let the conversation get awkward because of it.
They got just a little bit closer to each other.
“I’m not joking! I could beat anypony at anything,”
Vinyl Scratch inched a little closer with a distracted smile.
“I’d love for you to come with me…”
Rainbow Dash scooted just a little closer, just inches from her face, both ponies ignoring the world.
“I'd love too..."
The door opened suddenly behind Rainbow, causing both ponies to jump.
“Hey there you are Vinyl-*GASP*“
Pinkie Pie shook uncontrollably for just a few seconds.
"Hey I know that combo!" She exclaimed ecstatically, "Somepony's in looooooove! I wonder who it could be!"
Vinyl Scratch and Rainbow Dash's faces grew red, not saying anything.
"Wait a minute..." Pinkie Pie evaluated the situation.
She turned to Rainbow Dash, "Are you two...?"
"Y-Yes," They both said, both feeling the 'fuzzie wuzzies'
"OMIGOSH, that's so cute, this can't be real...!" Pinkie hopped up up and down, clapping her hooves together joyfully.
"It is," Vinyl Scratch said, voice shaky just from the pure happiness she felt to say it.
"For realizies??"
"Yep,"
"Yay!"
Pinkie hopped around merrily, while Rainbow Dash awfully embarrassed for being figured out so fast.
"OMIGOSH I HAVE AN IDEA!" The pink pony said, with a beaming smile within inches of their faces.
The two mares looked at the pink pony expectantly.
"LET'S HAVE A PARTY!"
|
CanvasWolfDoll
|
1016
| 1 |
Doctor Whooves,Minuette,Original Character,Princess Luna,Trixie,Adventure,Comedy,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Sepia Tock: Adventures of the Ponyville Clockmaker
|
Sepia Tock is not Doctor Whoof
|
complete
| 172 | 2 |
<p>Sepia Tock is an artisan, friend, and citizen of Ponyville. He is not, however, Doctor Whoof.<br/>This is his story</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-07-22T06:59:13+00:00
|
2012-07-22T06:59:13+00:00
| 3,568 |
Sepia Tock was awakened by the sound of his shop erupting into a din of alarms. He yawned and removed himself from his bed, picking a pencil up in his mouth, and then entered the store proper. His neighbors hated this morning ritual, but Sepia refused to cease it. He compromised by moving the trigger up an hour, but he felt it was his duty to perform the check every morning, walking by the shelves holding the alarm clocks, studying them one by one, stopping at each clock, leaving a tick on its tag if it worked, turning it off, and then moving on to the next in line. Those failing the test were moved to the back when Colgate arrived, and they would be carefully opened, the inner cogs and springs carefully examined by the two crafters of timepieces, magnifier squinted on eye, tweezers in mouth.
Sepia enjoyed his work. He had inherited the trade from his father, and with it the shop and position in Ponyville. He tried not to be haughty, but what he did was important. Without his finely crafted instruments, ponies would not be able to keep their busy schedules, cook for the proper length of time, or know just how long it was until quitting time. He couldn’t be sure, but from the occasional orders from Canterlot for his most accurate constructs, he suspected even the Princesses made use of his work. As such, he made sure always to make each new clock and hourglass better than the last. Then there were the clockwork toys he crafted with spare parts, placed on a low table, and sold for a small hoofful of bits each. He was, however, very doubtful that he was appreciated for the years of study under the kind tutelage of his father that got him where he was; instead, he found his popularity came from odd town gossip and bizarre tales.
The silver bell signaled the entrance of Derpy Hooves, holding Sepia’s mail in her mouth. “Mmm mph mm, mm-mph!”
“Thank you, Miss Hooves.” Sepia said with a nod, halfway through his morning chore, “Please just put it on the counter.”
Derpy dropped her load on the counter. “Good morning, Doctor,” she said, innocent smile on her face, “What do you have planned for the day?”
Sepia sighed. Doctor Whoof. The name followed him everywhere he went. When it started, he had tried his best to correct those who referred to him as such, but it grew faster than he could fight it. He had eventually decided that it wasn’t worth the battle if it hindered his work. Not that he didn’t fight the small encounters as they arose.
“Once again, please just call me Sepia,” he said through a forced expression of good humor, “Mr. Tock if you want to be formal.”
“Whatever you say, Doctor!” Derpy answered.
Every morning he would attempt to at least convince Derpy of his identity. If he could get that silly Pegasus to stop, the rest of town would seem much simpler. Sepia smiled wearily, “Would you like a muffin, Miss Hooves?”
“Everyone wants to give me muffins.” Derpy mused, “I don’t know why, though.”
“Is that a no then?”
“Of course not! I love muffins!” Derpy exclaimed, “Just don’t know why people keep giving them to me.”
“Eludes me.” Sepia answered, retrieving a muffin from the small kitchen in the back of his shop, bringing it to Derpy, “Have a safe route, Miss Hooves,” he said as Derpy accepted it graciously and flew off, nearly knocking Colgate over as they passed each other at the door.
“Good morning, Sepia.” Colgate said.
“Good morning, Colgate.” Sepia replied in kind, finally finishing with the alarms, “The eighth clock from the office door is malfunctioning.”
Colgate gave the clock a glance. “This is just a guess,” she said, “but I believe that might be caused by the fact that it isn’t an alarm clock.”
Sepia Tock paused mid-way through the winding of a watch. “Oh… mind moving it to a different shelf for me?”
Colgate obliged. Sepia had taken her on as a sort of apprentice after she had earned her cutie mark. She got to pursue her calling, and Sepia got a unicorn to do what he just couldn’t quite manage, such as moving stock en masse. Plus, she was one of the desperate few who called him by his real name.
Sepia sifted through his mail, throwing the fan mail addressed to Doctor Whoof into a drawer of the desk he used as a sales counter. He often considered discarding them, but he couldn’t bring himself to. It struck him as a bit rude. He saw a package from Fluttershy had been included. “Colgate, would you mind granulating these egg shells and adding them to the rest?” he asked.
Colgate levitated the brown paper parcel. “Want me to measure out some for an hourglass?” she asked in turn.
Sepia considered this. “Yes… I’ll make two later,” he said, “egg shells and marble.”
“I’m on it.” Colgate went to the workshop.
Sepia placed what was left of the mail in a neat pile by the register, and sat, waiting for customers. He glanced out the window, where the eyes of three fillies briefly looked back. They dropped quickly from eyesight.
“Should we ask him how he got his cutie mark?”
“Didn’t he just have it when he regurgitated?” Scootaloo answered.
“I don’t know, my sister says he’s just a kook.” Sweetie Belle said, “She says he just started raving about time travel and aliens after some sort of traumatic incident with an apple salespony.”
Apple Bloom took another glance through the window and suddenly began whistling, feigning innocence to a crime no one had accused her of.
Sepia poked his head out of his shop door, “May I help you girls?”
The Cutie Mark Crusaders huddled to discuss. Finally, Apple Bloom stepped forward, “Excuse me, Doctor-”
“Actually, it’s Sepia Tock.”
Apple Bloom paused for a fleeting moment before continuing, “Well, we wondering if you could tell us how you got your cutie mark.”
“Don’t leave out any details to spare us, either!” Scootaloo said, “We can take whatever exciting adventure you had to face!”
Sepia looked around to check if any customers were coming, and then sat down with the three girls. “Well, it’s not really that exciting, nor that outstanding, but I do recall it fondly,” he said, “My entire life, I had watched my father, Russet Tock, build clocks and hourglasses for the whole of Equestria. Sometimes he would let me do a little work, placing a cog here and there, filling an hourglass with sand. As time went on, he let me do more and more work, until finally, one day, he let me make an hourglass by myself. Mind you, it was hard work, heating the glass tube just right as you spin it, using a rounded edge to put in the pinch. It took me the whole day, but when I finally finished, I stepped back and realized how much I loved it. I decided then and there that I, like my father, would build timepieces.” Sepia smiled at the blank faces of the Crusaders. “I hope that helped.”
Disappointment filled the three faces as they thanked the clockmaker, and walked off, whispering between each other. “Do you think he’ll still take us on an adventurer if we ask?”
“If he won’t tell us how he really got that mark, then I doubt he’ll help us get adventuring cutie marks…”
Sepia Tock went back in to his shop, trying his best to ignore the overheard criticisms. He told Colgate to take charge of the sales counter as he went into the workshop. He turned on the most recent of Octavia’s solo records, and then turned to the glass tube suspended on a contraption he had devised. It had taken him awhile to engineer it, to get it to hold the thin glass and spin it without cause it to crack or burst. He turned on the welding torch suspended at the center of the tube and began to turn the wheel at the end, which began the rotation of the entire tube. Once it reached a desirable speed, he backed away from the spinning wheel of the contraption and crouched down to turn a smaller nob under the wheel, which brought up the bar used to place the distinctive pinch between the bulbs. He slowly moved the bar in place until, after minutes of slow progress, alternating between the knob and spinning wheel, the bar reached its highest point. Sepia then went back to ensure the wheel was turning at an even speed. Soon, with the pinch well in place, Sepia took hold of another knob, this one bringing up the bars that shaped the bulbs of the hourglass. When the bulbs were shaped, he turned off the torch and lowered the bars.
His father used to form the twin bulbs by a method of blowing and spinning them on the end of a tube, but Sepia had found the technique to be slow, inefficient, and hard to master, so he instead built the contraption. He left the shaped tube to cool, removing two empty hourglasses he’d made previously from the kiln, which cooked the glass to a tougher consistency. He placed the two, one by one, on the counter by the cups holding the ground-up eggs shells and marble sand, which were always carefully measured by Colgate. He took two funnels from the hooks above the work bench, inserted the ends into the small opening on the top of the hour glasses, and poured the cups into the half bulb of the funnels, which slowly dropped the grains into the hour glass. Sepia opened a box under the bench and removed some premade hourglass bases, setting them down next to the bulbs until the sand finished pouring in.
The phone rang in the shop proper, answered by Colgate.
Sepia moved over to another bench, covered with clocks in various states of completion. He selected one and moved it towards the end of the bench, where he used a clamp to secure it in place. He examined the various tweezers he had acquired, selecting one with a fine pincher, and slid open a drawer in the bench, which filled with cogs of various sizes. He selected one, picking it up with the tweezers, and carefully placed it in the clock, meshing it with its nearby partners.
Colgate poked her head in. “Hey, the Mayor is having trouble with her office clock,” she said, “I’d handle it, but I know she’s got one of the more complicated models, and I’m afraid I’ll do more harm than good.”
Sepia carefully finished securing the cog and set down his tweezers. “Alright, I’ll go handle that promptly,” he said. He walked over to the saddle bags hanging on a hook in the back, grabbed a roll of tools from a small pile and threw them in, shouldered the bags, and set out.
Ponies shuffled aside as he walked forth, whispering amongst themselves.
“Is that who I think it is?”
“What’s he up to?”
“Can’t be too important, he’s not running-”
“I mean, I sit oddly one time to crack my back, and I get a reputation.”
“Does he have his screwdriver?”
“Where’s his box?”
Some stole glances, some more subtle than others, while others averted their gaze. Here and there, a pony would tell a tale of his supposed exploits, soon to be topped by another and then another. When it all started, these actions had got on Sepia’s nerves, but now he noticed them only on a subconscious level. He walked through town until, after much discussion with her friends, a pony pranced up to him.
“Excuse me, Doctor?” The pony, pale yellow in coat and green in mane and tail, said to the legendary figure, “I was just wander if.”
“No,” Sepia said, “I will not take you on an adventure, show you my sonic screwdriver, or show you my blue box. Sorry. If you have a clock that needs repair, I’d be more than happy to lend you a hoof, after I’ve finished addressing the Mayor’s.”
The prospective companion accepted this without a word and, head bowed, returned to her friends. “I guess I’m just not good enough,”she told her friends.
“He talked to you? What did he sound like?”
“Maybe he’s just too busy. We should try again later.”
Sepia walked on.
“Madam Mayor, Doctor Whoof to see you.”
“Why, hello there, Doctor, what can I do for you?” The Mayor said when Sepia entered her office.
“You needed your clock fixed?” Sepia said.
“How did you know that?” Mayor said, flabbergasted.
Sepia swallowed a sigh. “That’s what you told us when you called.”
“You’re working for the clock makers?” She gave Sepia a wink, “Clever cover.”
No it’s not, it’s a terrible cover, Sepia thought to himself, but said, “Would you mind pointing me to the clock in need of my attention, ma’am?”
The Mayor pointed, and Sepia set to work, placing the clock on a nearby table and opening the back. He donned his magnifier lens and checked the intricate mechanizations. “So, what’s the problem?” he asked.
“Well, planning for Winter Wrap-up is falling behind yet again, Princess Celestia wants to spend a day in town, and I still haven’t gotten my ticket for the Grand Galloping Gala,” the Mayor answered as she shuffled through the cluttered mess on her desk, examining papers here and there.
Sepia counted to ten in his head before speaking. “I meant with the clock, ma’am.”
“Oh, yes, the clock,” The Mayor said, “It’s been running a bit slow.”
“Have you been winding it?”
“My secretary winds it every day,” the Mayor answered.
“M’hm,” Sepia said, “Well, it looks like the spring’s been over stretched. I’ll have to replace it. I’ll return it to you tomorrow morning.”
“Thank you, Doctor,” the Mayor said, “How much do I owe you?”
“It’s Sepia Tock, Madam Mayor,” Sepia said, “We can discuss payment upon my repairing it.” He added as he put the clock into his bag.
“Thank you, Doctor.” The Mayor said as Sepia left her office.
Sepia politely made his good bye, and left.
|
CanvasWolfDoll
|
1016
| 2 |
Doctor Whooves,Minuette,Original Character,Princess Luna,Trixie,Adventure,Comedy,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Sepia Tock: Adventures of the Ponyville Clockmaker
|
Sepia Tock is not Doctor Whoof
|
complete
| 172 | 2 |
<p>Sepia Tock is an artisan, friend, and citizen of Ponyville. He is not, however, Doctor Whoof.<br/>This is his story</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-07-22T07:04:08+00:00
|
2012-07-22T07:04:08+00:00
| 2,729 |
“Doctor! Doctor!” Derpy exclaimed as she rushed in.
Sepia turned away from the wall of clocks he was winding to face the unexpected guest. “Yes, Miss Hooves?”
“You got a very important letter!” Derby continued, and then fished the letter from her satchel, presenting it to the clockmaker.
The envelope bore the mark of Celestia. The letter told of how Canterlot's Clock Tower had ceased to function. The source of the problem baffled those charged with the upkeep of the tower, and, as his father had designed the clock there was hope that Sepia would be able to repair it. Of course, he would be paid for his services.
“Why wasn't this with my morning mail?” Sepia asked Derpy Hooves.
“It... Kind of fell out, Doctor...” Derby answered, smiling awkwardly.
Sepia wrote a letter accepting the job and handed it to the wall-eyed pegasus mail carrier. “Get this delivered as quickly as you can,” he said. Derpy saluted and raced off.
Sepia went to collect his tools from the workshop, were Colgate was making adjustments to a few clocks. “Would you mind the shop for the rest of the day, Colgate?” he asked the unicorn, “I need to take care of something in Canterlot.”
Colgate looked at one of the many clocks. “Right now?” she responded, “It'll be night by the time you get there!”
“Well, Derpy only just now got me the message, and it was signed by Princess Celestia herself, so I think I probably shouldn’t leave her waiting,” Sepia explained as he donned the saddle bags with his tools.
“You want me to stay overnight?” Colgate asked, “Do the morning alarm check for you?”
“If you could that'd be great,” Sepia said, “Now, I'm off.”
As Colgate had predicted, it was well into the night when Sepia arrive in Canterlot, where he was greeted by an older pony, green in coat, his mane and tail already well-worn into grayness. “Well if it isn't the Doctor!” The older pony said, “You on another of your adventures?”
“No, I'm just here to fix the tower,” Sepia said, indicating the building.
The other pony considered this as they walked. “So the princess contacted you to fix it?” he asked, looking thoughtful, “Makes sense. Who's better for the job than a Time Lord, eh?”
“Yes, let's just go with that,” Sepia said dully as he entered the clock tower. His guide looked expectantly at him. “Is there something I'm forgetting?”
“Well...” the other began, “It's just that, in the stories I've heard, you always had help, and I just wondered if you want me...”
“No, that's quite alright,” Sepia interrupted, “I wouldn't want to keep you from whatever else you need to do.”
“It's fine with me; I've got nothing better to do,” the pony said with a wrinkly grin.
Sepia weighed his options. The extra hooves might end up being convenient. However, he'd probably have to spend the whole time listening to tales of his assumed exploits. “I think I've got it well in hoof,” Sepia said, closing the doors, “Thanks for the offer, though.” The doors echoed when they shut. Sepia shivered and then started up the winding staircase. It's rather chilly, Sepia thought to himself, perhaps I should have brought a scarf. Then again, I'm sure the pony that brought me here would just start telling people about how he saw Doctor Whoof with a miles-long scarf. Sepia smirked at the ridiculous idea. A long scarf would just be a hindrance.
Halfway up, Sepia began to hear the faint sound of voices echoing down from the top. He picked up his pace slightly. As he climbed, the voices began to become clearer, until Sepia realized it wasn't, in fact, multiple voices, but a single voice speaking at different registers.
“More tea, Brigadier General?” The feminine voice asked.
“Yes I would, thank you,” the voice said in a low, gruff voice.
“I must say, princess, you are a most delightful host.” This one was between the previous two.
“Thank you, Duchess Cotton,” the voice went back to its original state.
Sepia Tock reach the top the stairs, exiting to an open air floor, where Princess Luna sat, , socks puppets on her front hooves, hosting a tea party. “It too bad Felicity couldn't be here,” Luna said with the gruff voice assigned to the puppet on her left hoof, which had a mustache and monocle.
“Oh yes, where ever did she get to?” The duchess had a horn and pearl necklace.
“Um... Excuse me?” Sepia cautiously made his presence known.
Luna turned to face the sudden guest, “Oh!” She awkwardly tried to hide the puppets. “May I help you, sir?” she asked, smiling sheepishly.
Sepia pointed down the stairs, “I was climbing up here to try and fix the clock when I heard voices.”
“Oh. Sorry, I didn't mean to be a distraction,” Luna said awkwardly.
“It perfectly alright, Your Highness,” Sepia assured, looking at the small table, which had a silver tray and tea set laid out on it. “If I may ask, why are you up here all by your lonesome?”
“I'm not alone! I've got my friends!” Luna said, presenting the puppets, her face beaming with pride before deflating. “Well, most of them anyways…”
Sepia, deciding it best to play along, nodded, “Yes, I heard about Felicity.” He paused for a breath. “I assume she, too, is a sock.”
Luna looked at Sepia blankly. “You think I'm mad, don't you?”
Sepia recoiled. “O-of course not, ma'am!” He began to back away from the Princess, slowly.
Luna put her hooves down. “It's okay if you do” she said with a hint of sadness, “You might be right.” Luna sipped from her cup. “A thousand years alone might make you mad.”
Sepia looked at the face of the Moon Princess and saw loneliness radiating from it. He looked at the worn puppets, dirtied by moon dust, “I don't think you're mad,” he said, “Eccentric, sure, but not mad.”
Luna considered this, “Thank you... Uh...”
“Sepia Tock.” Sepia said, “I make clocks in Ponyville.”
“Thank you, Sepia Clockmaker.” Luna said with a smile, “Could I interest you to some tea?”
“Well, I’ve got to fix this clock.” Sepia said, nodding his head towards the stairs, adding “But once it’s working again, I would love some tea.”
“Did you hear that? We’ve got someone to replace Felicity at our party!” Luna whispered to the Brigadier General.
Sepia rolled his eyes as he trotted downward to the first landing, where he pushed open the door leading to actual engine of the clock. Nothing was moving, not even the mighty pendulum that powered the entire assembly, though Sepia guessed that was to prevent any further damage to the machine and parts. Carefully, Sepia jumped to a nearby cog, which was approximately the size of the first floor of his shop. He walked around its edges, checking the connection between it and those around it. As far as he could tell, they were all in good shape and should still work. He climbed up to another and inspected it, then another, and another, climbing around until he finally got to the subsection that directly controlled the hands of the clock face. At first he didn’t see an issue there, but when he turned to climb back down a tattered cloth wing struck the corner of his eye. Upon closer examination, he discovered that he’d solved two mysteries. He began to tug, but the sock wouldn’t budge from its firm hold within the mesh. He paused and considered his options. He could pull until the sock ripped to shreds, but he wouldn’t want to force anypony to have to explain that to Luna. He looked up at the ceiling, trying to judge its thickness. “Excuse me, Princess? I think I may have found Felicity,” he shouted.
There was a pause, then a rush as Luna flew over, “Where is she?” She asked, an excited smile spread across her face. Sepia pointed toward the poor sock, “Oh dear, she looks really wedged in. How do we get her out?”
“Well, if I could just find the controls,” Sepia mused, glancing around, “we could put the clock in reverse until there’s less pressure, but first…” Suddenly he felt himself revolving, an aura of magic surround the cog he stood on. The two gears released their hold of Felicity.
Luna smirked at the clockmaker knowingly.
“Well, yes, we can do that too,” Sepia admitted, “Well, I suppose I should head home. I can let the actual caretakers set the time and restart the pendulum.”
Luna looked dejected. “Weren’t you going to stay for tea?” she asked.
“Oh, well, you’ve got Felicity back, and I wouldn’t want to intrude…”
“Don’t be such a silly, Sepia Tock,” Luna said, “There’s always room for one more at a tea party.” She levitated the winged sock onto her horn, and then motioned Sepia to follow her to the roof.
“I cannot thank you enough.” The duchess said, “We were ever so worried over our little Felicity!”
“It was anything special,” Sepia said, “Anyone would’ve done the same.”
“Ah, but it wasn’t just anyone, my lad!” The Brigadier General said, “It was you!”
“Yes, thank you, Sepia Tock!” Felicity had a high, child-like voice, “I was so frightened, stuck in there, unable to move.”
Sepia blushed as he sipped the tea, “So… Princess… If I maybe so bold.”
“Don’t be scared,” Princess Luna said, “I won’t bite.”
“It’s just that, you know, you’re a princess, and I’m sure anyone would be more than happy to attend a tea party hosted by you, yet…”
“Yet I sit her with sock puppets,” Princess Luna finished his thought, “Yes, I suppose I could have anyone here I want. However, after all I did, I’m afraid I don’t deserve such kindness.” She quietly sipped her tea. “Besides, this party is for me and my dearest friends. These three were with me for my entire banishment.” She forced a smile, “They were what Tia left me with.”
“I see…” Sepia sipped his tea, “So… how is the moon?”
“Cold.” Princess Luna answered simply, “Not too much to do.”
“Don’t be daft, my dear girl!” The Brigadier General chimed in, “There was plenty! I recall that time when me and my forces charged the crater city of Gibbs! Yes, It was a cold night… or was it day… It’s hard to tell up there, you know.”
“Oh, Brigadier General, not now,” Princess Luna interrupted him, “As much as we delight in your tales of valor, we don’t want to bore our guest.”
Sepia hid his smile by taking another sip of tea.
Princess looked glumly at her socks. “To be honest, Mr. Clockmaker,” she admitted, “I do wish I could make some real friends, but… everypony knows of the horrors I comitted, and I know I’ll have to make reparations eventually, but I just don’t know if I can look anypony in the eye right now.” Luna glumly refilled her tea cup. “I just don’t know if I’ll be forgiven by others as easily as my sister did.”
“For what it’s worth, I forgive you,” Sepia said, “I know what it’s like to have ponies gossip about you.”
“Do you?” Princess Luna perked up slightly.
“Oh yes, back home, the other ponies somehow got it in their heads I’m some sort of hero by the name of ‘Doctor Whoof’. It’s very annoying.”
“You’re Doctor Whoof?” Princess Luna’s eyes filled with admiration, “I’ve heard stories about him! I never thought I’d meet the real deal!”
“Well… no… not exactly….” Sepia awkwardly scratched his mane, “They’re just stories that suddenly began to spread one day. All of them mere fabrications.”
“Oh…” Princess Luna looked disappointed for a brief moment, but then smiled happily, “That’s okay, I’d much rather know the real Sepia Tock than the fake Doctor.”
“Thank you,” Sepia said with much appreciation in his voice, “I’m certainly glad to have met you.”
Princess Luna beamed, “I hope it’s this easy to make more friends.”
“Oh, I’m sure you’ll have no trouble,” Sepia said encouragingly.
“Yes, well, my sister keeps giving me these letters to read,” Luna said, motioning to a small pile at the end of the table, “However, I just can’t bear to read them.”
Sepia looked at the pile, reading a few lines on the top letter, “Why not? It seems fine to me. It’s certainly eloquent.”
“I just can’t get past the first line of the letters,” Princess Luna said glumly, “The part where it says ‘Dear Princess Celestia’. I know she means well, but the letters are for her, not me.”
Sepia considered this, “Well, then, we’ll just have to fix that, won’t we?” He sat up boldly, “When I get back, I promise I’ll send you a letter once a week, and try and get others to do likewise. I’ll bet that, by the end of the month, you’ll have more letters addressed to you than you’ll know what to do with. I give you my word.”
“Thank you.” Princess Luna said, “More tea?”
“Yes please.”
The two ponies continued to converse with each other and the puppets until, with the rise of the early sun, Sepia politely made his leave, instructing the tower keepers to start the clock back up, and then marched on home.
Colgate greeted Sepia when he returned, “Good to see you’ve made it back safe!”
“Good to see you too,” Sepia said as he entered. He went to the workshop, put the saddle bags back on their hook, and went to bed.
After he woke up, he had Colgate act as scribe for his first letter.
|
CanvasWolfDoll
|
1016
| 3 |
Doctor Whooves,Minuette,Original Character,Princess Luna,Trixie,Adventure,Comedy,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Sepia Tock: Adventures of the Ponyville Clockmaker
|
Sepia Tock is not Doctor Whoof
|
complete
| 172 | 2 |
<p>Sepia Tock is an artisan, friend, and citizen of Ponyville. He is not, however, Doctor Whoof.<br/>This is his story</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-07-22T07:09:19+00:00
|
2014-10-16T05:57:44+00:00
| 2,710 |
Sepia was moping. He didn’t do so often, but today he had had a reason.
“Oh, come on, Sepia, I hear it didn’t go over that well anyways,” Colgate tried to reassure her boss as she dusted the stock, “Got interrupted by some sort of unforeseen chaos.”
“I fixed their clock tower. The least they could’ve done was to send me a ticket to the gala.” Sepia grumbled.
“I pretty sure Octavia will have plenty more performances in the future,” Colgate replied with a roll of the eye.
“I can’t usually afford tickets,” Sepia crossed his front legs grumpily, “Especially for the full quartet performances.”
Colgate hung the duster up, “Okay, go ahead and mope, Mr. Mopey-face. I’ll just go and build a clock.”
“Go ahead.” Sepia waved her into the back, and continued to watch the shop.
A dark gray pegasus, mane and tale a shade lighter than his body, and orange eyes walked in. He smiled absently, glancing at the clocks around him. His eyes lit up when they landed on the shop owner, “Hey! Aren’t you Doctor Whoof?”
“No.” Sepia said, not wanting any further irritants, “Can I help you?”
The pegasus leaned towards the clockmaker, “Are you sure you’re not the Doctor?”
“I am a clock maker and proprietor of this store. May I help you find something?”
The pegasus backed off, but retained his knowing stare, “I am Ragged Rocks,” he told Sepia with a cheeky grin, “and I am looking for a watch.”
“A watch?” Sepia asked in a voice dripping with annoyance.
“Yes! A silver one!” Ragged answered grandly, “A special one!”
Sepia pointed to the wall where all the watches hung, “We keep the watches on that wall. Take your pick.”
“Thank you, Doctor,” Ragged said as he walked over to the watches, paying special attention to silver pocket watches. He gave each one a dissatisfied frown, until he reached the end of the wall where sat the cardboard box that housed the older, outdated watches. The gray pegasus dug to the bottom, let out a satisfied “Ah-ha!” and pulled out a watch covered in what seemed to be an eon’s worth of dust. Rugged sat the clock down, dusted it off with a wing, bucked with glee, and took it to Sepia. “I want this watch!”
Sepia looked at the watch. The cover had the image of a winged hourglass with tiny cogs filling the bulbs. Interesting design, Sepia thought as he popped it open to check that it still functioned. The inside face was glass, showing the clockwork that rested within. Sepia figured it was one of his father’s products. “Right,” he said, “I’ll sell this to you for, let’s say, twenty bits.”
“I’ll give you fifty.” Ragged said, plopping a small bag onto the sales counter.
Sepia looked at the odd Pegasus. “You don’t understand how to haggle.”
“Oh, I understand,” Ragged said, “I also know clocks.” Ragged presented his flank. A pocket watch was there, “However, it’s not every day Doctor Whoof himself sells you a watch. That service alone is worth an additional thirty bits.”
“Fine, fifty bits.” Sepia conceded.
“Thank you, Doctor.” Ragged took the watch and exited.
Sepia watched the pony leave. “You’re welcome?” He shook his head and muttered, “That’s one nutty pony.”
“Mail call, Doctor!” Derpy called as she entered.
“You better not have a forgotten letter from Canterlot with you,” Sepia said, resuming his funk.
“I haven’t forgotten any mail lately,” Derpy said, then paused. “Well, not any of yours, at any rate,” she corrected herself.
“Goody,” Sepia sarcastically commented, “Nice to know I just wasn’t considered.”
“What’s the matter, Doctor?” Derpy asked.
Sepia sighed, “Oh, nothing for you to worry your ditzy self over. May I have my mail?”
“One mail delivery coming up!” Derpy said, then fished out the envelopes, plopping them in front of Sepia, “See you tomorrow!”
“See ya,” Sepia said as he sorted the mail, stopping at an envelope he recognized. A year ago, in hopes of drumming up business he had made a mail order catalogue. For a good few months, he got the occasional letter in the self-addressed and prepaid envelopes he had included, mostly from ponies furious that he was trying to use the image of Doctor Whoof for personal gain, but he did get the occasional legit orders before they petered out and he elected not to publish an updated catalogue. He studied the envelope, before coming to a conclusion. “Colgate! Can you open this for me?” He yelled into the workshop, “I’m misplaced my letter opener.”
“Sometimes I worry you’re only using me for my horn,” Colgate said as she came in to open the envelope for the earth pony.
“Don’t be silly,” Sepia said, “You also make delicious coffee cake.”
Colgate just rolled her eyes good-naturedly, “Gee, good to know I make such a positive impact on your life.”
“Mind handing me the old catalogue while you snark?” Sepia said as he unfolded the letter. He almost immediately let out a groan as he read the first couple of lines.
Dear Tock Clock Shop,
I, the GREAT and POWERFUL Trixie, am in need of a new clock. My previous clock, along with my home and cart, was utterly destroyed in a Starry Bear related incident. As such Trixie finds herself having to rebuild, and would much appreciate your highest quality clock within the pay range of a traveling performer, and requests make number 63-05. Trixie would also appreciate it if you could get the clock to her home in Hoofington as quickly as possible.
Astoundingly yours,
Trixie
The Great and Powerful
Sepia looked the make up in the catalogue. It was grand looking wall clock, though cheap and battery powered. While he admitted they had their place, Sepia had always leaned towards the elegance of clocks that ran on wound springs. “Colgate, one of us going to have to make a delivery,” he said.
“Okay?” Colgate said, popping her head out, “Why do you sound so reluctant?”
“It’s for Trixie.”
“Oh…” Colgate said, “Can’t we just, you know, mail it?”
The two clocksmiths paused, the image of a wall-eyed pegasus coming to mind. “Tin toy race?” Sepia suggested.
“Seems fair,” Colgate answered, walking over to the low table to select her champion: a train. Sepia carefully considered the remaining toys, and selected a silver contraption that vaguely resembled a dog, if a boxy one. It had always served him well.
They placed their tin racers next to each other on the desk. “Terms are this,” Sepia said, “You will wind both equally, and then release. Which ever gets closest to the edge of the counter without going over doesn’t have to go. Are we agreed?”
“Agreed,” Colgate said. An aura surrounded the two toys as their keys twisted. Sepia watched that they turned at equal speed and had an equal number of turns. “Ready?” Colgate asked.
“Go.” Sepia replied.
The tin toys shot forward, keeping neck to neck, racing to the impending cliff. Slowly, much to Sepia’s horror, the train began to pull forward, attempting to overtake the dog. He winced as it gained distance. Ting. A wheel popped off the train, and began to wobble. “Come on…” both whispered. The toys kept going, rapidly losing speed, until, finally, they reached the final spurts of movement, growing closer to the end of the desk. The dog stop at exactly the end as the train began to wobble. Breaths were held when, suddenly, Sepia’s dog let out one last spurt, and fell to failure. Colgate let out a victorious cheer.
Sepia leaned down to retrieve the toy. “You always put in extra effort, don’t you?” he asked it.
“Affirmative.” Colgate said in a pseudo-robotic voice, mockingly.
“Don’t do that.” Sepia said, placing the toy back on the sales table, “Well, I’ll go make the delivery then.”
“Have fun,” Colgate said with a wave, “Don’t get eaten by anything scary.”
Sepia paused at the door, “What if I get eaten by something cute?”
“Then I’d be okay with it,” Colgate answered, “Bye now.”
Sepia had elected to take the direct route through the Everfree forest. After a close call with a particularly grumpy jackalope, Sepia made it to Hoofington, delivery in saddlebag.
Hoofington was composed largely of travel wagons, the town being the home of many road show performers during the off-season, which it was currently. There were plenty of non-mobile buildings, mostly restaurants and stores, and the occasion house for those who lived in town year-round, but for the most part the town was composed of sub communities of caravans. Here and there ponies would cross implied borders and join another group around their gathering spot. Sepia looked around for any sign of the egotistical unicorn, but saw no hint. He walked up to a group at random.
“So I’m thinking, next season, why don’t we perform the adventures of Doctor Whoof?”
Sepia turned around and chose a different camp.
“So, my concept is this: we find a popular character from fanon, but portray him as aware and loatheful of his reputation,” a brown pegasus pitched to his peers.
“That’s a horrible idea. Go bother somepony else,” an earth pony, clearly the leader of the troupe, told the writer.
Sepia cautiously walked up as the dejected pegasus fluttered off. “Excuse me,” he asked, “but could any of you tell me where I could find Trixie? I have a delivery for her.”
“Trixie?” the leader said, “Hoofington’s resident ham?”
“Yes?” Sepia hazarded.
“She’s at the library.”
“Thank you,” Sepia said, “Have a nice night.” He walked off, finding the town library, the biggest building in town. Like all the permanent structures, it had a large porch for use as an improvised stage. A single, freshly built wagon stood nearby. Sepia entered the building.
“Confound these magic books!” Trixie yelled as she threw an offending tome at the wall, “Nothing but illusions and stage tricks.”
“Hello, Trixie?”
“Who dares bothers the Great and Powerful Trixie during her darkest hours?” Trixie announced.
“I’m from Tock Clock Shop,” Sepia said, “You ordered a clock.”
Trixie eyed the delivery-colt, “Don’t I know you from somewhere?”
“I’m from Ponyville,” Sepia said, “You nearly got my store crushed by a rampaging constellation.”
“Now hold on,” Trixie said, “in my defense, that was the work of those two irresponsible unicorn boys, what were their names, Slugs and Snaps?”
Sepia had to concede the point, though he didn’t vocalize it. “Anyways, I’ve got the clock you wanted,” he said.
“Thank you, how much does the Great and Powerful Trixie owe you?”
“It’s a cheap clock, so… about fifteen bits?”
Trixie winced slightly at the price, “You wouldn’t happen to have a discount for great and powerful customers, would you?”
“You can’t afford a fifteen bit clock?” Sepia asked with confusion.
“It’s not exactly easy when one is constantly trying to outrace bad reviews.”
“Maybe if you actually did the things you claimed,” Sepia suggested.
“What do you think I’ve been doing, spending my days and nights in this place?” Trixie asked indignantly, “Trying to find a good pancake recipe?” Trixie’s shoulders sagged, “All I want was respect and admiration, to hear my name spoken by the masses in joyous wonderment.” She smiled absently, “To walk down the road and see the other ponies pause and watch you, gossiping over your grand adventures.”
“It’s not as exciting as it seems,” Sepia muttered.
“Instead, I get nothing but scowls and contempt.” Trixie once again sagged, “Now I have to work even harder to earn my place in society.”
Sepia looked at the distraught magician. He felt an urge to try and comfort her. “I’ll tell you what, how about I give you this clock, and you’ll just owe me the bits.”
“Trixie, the Great and Powerful, doesn’t need your charity,” Trixie snapped.
“How about Trixie the small and pitiful?” Sepia replied.
“She’d appreciate the kind gesture, yes,” Trixie conceded.
Sepia retrieved the clock from his saddle bags, placing it before the unicorn, “Here you go then.”
“Thanks.” Trixie said, ears drooped.
“You know…” Sepia said, feigning a casual tone, “In my experience, it’s always better to be known for who are as opposed to who’re not.”
“What would you know about it?” Trixie said, “You’re just an errand colt.”
“Actually, I made that clock.” Sepia said, “As for how I’d know: have you ever heard of a pony called Doctor Whoof?”
Trixie’s eyes lit up, “Know him! I adore him!” She began to bounce a little, “I’ve always dreamed of meeting him. Maybe if he’d take me along in his magic box, Trixie would gain her place in society.”
This is going to hurt, Sepia thought, “Well, the thing is, he doesn’t actually exist.”
“Blasphemer!” Trixie growled.
“Now hold on,” Sepia said, “Let me try that again: I’m Doctor Whoof.”
Trixie gave him a suspicious eye, “Are you now?”
“Well, yes… in a way.” Sepia continued, “One day, someone started telling stories about how I was Doctor Whoof, and it… just kind of spread.”
“Lucky you,” Trixie said sourly.
“Hey, I never said I enjoy the attention,” Sepia said.
“So… what’re you trying to say here?” Trixie asked, “Because, I did find this body-swap spell and…”
“No.”
“But…”
“No, don’t you dare.”
“I was joking, anyways,” Trixie said, adding “mostly…” under her breath.
“Look, all I’m trying to say is: be yourself,” Sepia said, “It does neither you, nor anyone else, any favors when who you actually are gets overshadowed by what you, or anyone else, for that matter, claims you are.”
“But, that’s what I’ve trying to do,” Trixie said, “I’d like for other ponies to see me the way I do.”
“Well then, I guess that’s an admirable goal.”
“Unfortunately, there aren’t any spells of actual merit in any of these books.” Trixie kicked over a small stack of grimoires.
“Perhaps you should try a different library?” Sepia hazard.
“Unlikely,” Trixie said, “I can’t show my face again in Ponyville, and the Canterlot library is only open to students of Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, or by invitation.” Trixie sighed, “Those are the only notable libraries within a day’s journey.”
“Well, how hard is it to get an invitation?” Sepia asked.
“Only the Princess may grant invitations,” Trixie said, “I’m sure Celestia’s prized student hasn’t been talking me up.”
Sepia nervously hoofed at the ground, “Well, what if I told you I had a friend who might be able to help?”
“Really?”
“I can’t promise you anything but…” Sepia sighed, “There’s a certain lonely princess who might appreciate the occasional letter.”
Trixie looked confused.
“I’m talking about Princess Luna.” Sepia clarified.
“Oooh.” Trixie chimed, “I forgot she was around.”
“Just, promise me you’ll stop lying to ponies, okay?”
“The Great and Powerful Trixie will try her best,” Trixie announced.
“A little less of that would be nice, but it’s your call,” Sepia said, “I hope you manage to make a name yourself.” He turned to leave.
“Hold on!” Trixie yelled after him.
“Yes?”
“You never introduced yourself,” Trixie said.
“Oh. I’m Sepia Tock,” Sepia said.
“Sepia Tock…” Trixie tried out the name, “It lacks a certain kick, don’t you think?”
“It’s served me well thus far,” Sepia defended.
“You sure you don’t want to be Doctor Whoof?”
“Pretty sure,” Sepia said, once again moving to leave.
“Hold on!” Trixie bellowed again.
“Yes?” Sepia was beginning to get riled up.
“Uh… thanks for talking to me like I’m a decent pony,” Trixie said, “I rarely get that these days.”
Sepia paused, “You’re welcome,” he said, trying again to leave.
“Hold-”
Sepia sighed and looked at Trixie with weary eyes.
“Have a nice day,” Trixie beamed.
“Uh-huh.” Sepia waved a hoof and finally left the library.
“So, how’d it go?” Colgate asked.
“Wasn’t bad,” Sepia answered as he walked in.
“Oh that’s good,” Colgate said with a glimmering smile.
Sepia paused, “Colgate… is there something I should know about?”
“Well, I just saw a flyer for a show, and I’d think we should go see it,” Colgate said, “It’d be fun!”
Sepia looked at the nervous face of his assistant. “It’s a Doctor Whoof show, isn’t it?”
“Maybe…” Colgate said, tapping her hooves together innocently.
“Why does it come to town?”
“Next week!” Colgate answered, “Can we see it, please?”
Sepia glared at Colgate. “Fine, but you owe me.”
“Thank you,” Colgate said, and pranced off into the workshop.
Sepia sighed and sat behind the counter. “I need to stop trying to please every horned pony I see…”
|
CanvasWolfDoll
|
1016
| 4 |
Doctor Whooves,Minuette,Original Character,Princess Luna,Trixie,Adventure,Comedy,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Sepia Tock: Adventures of the Ponyville Clockmaker
|
Sepia Tock is not Doctor Whoof
|
complete
| 172 | 2 |
<p>Sepia Tock is an artisan, friend, and citizen of Ponyville. He is not, however, Doctor Whoof.<br/>This is his story</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-07-22T07:10:12+00:00
|
2012-07-22T07:10:12+00:00
| 2,584 |
The Doctor ran, hooves beating the ground. Not far behind, a Dalek pursued. He had split off from his companion earlier, and he desperately hoped she was okay. Suddenly, he found he was cornered. He turned and faced his hated enemy. The Dalek got closer with every breath, horrible murder on its mind.
“This is terrible,” Sepia said.
“I know!” Colgate said, “How will he get out of this one?”
“He looks nothing like me!” Sepia said, “He's purple, that's obviously a paper cutout of my cutie mark, and why is he wearing celery?”
Colgate sighed, “The celery turns purple in the presence of certain poisonous gases.”
Sepia looked at his assistant with a look of surprise and curiosity, “How do you know that?”
“I read the expanded material,” Colgate admitted with a blush, “Something the stories are actually quite good.”
“Why is he so afraid of that trash can?” Sepia continued on, “One firm kick and it's immobilized. Then you just walk away, job's done, crisis averted.”
“Oh, you're no fun.” Colgate stuck her tongue out at Sepia.
“It's a trash can!”' Sepia said.
The Doctor's companion entered from the other side of the stage wielding a cork gun, “Hey, bucket head! Over here!” She yelled at the Dalek, firing the gun. The tin monster turned to face her. The Doctor pulled a flashlight from a pocket, flickering it at the evil tin monster. The audience (well, most of them) cheered.
“It's a flashlight.” Sepia noted with confusion.
“It's not the flashlight,” a pale blue pegasus sitting next to him said, “It's what the flashlight represents.”
“Oh?” Sepia said with a skeptical brow raise.
“It represents the absolute glory of the low production value of off-season roadshows,” the pegasus answered, “You just can't find this level of camp during tour season.” He then pointed to a half consumed pie by his feet, “Plus they have terrific pie.”
“They've got pie?” Colgate asked with excitement.
“Oh yes, free to donators,” the pegasus pointed to a table discreetly set up at the back of the viewing area, with a jar labeled ‘Donations, please.’ The rest of the table was covered with various baked goods, a stack of unconstructed pink boxes at the end.
“You're helping fund this?” Sepia asked, slightly indignant.
“What can I say? I enjoy campy, off-season roadshows,” the pegasus answered with a shrug, “Also, pie. I like pie.”
“Who doesn't?” Colgate replied, and extended a hoof, “I'm Colgate.”
The pegasus glanced around, then met the hoof. “Soarin Hazard,” he said.
Sepia and Colgate sat awestruck. “You're Soarin? The Soarin? Of the Wonderbolts?” Colgate finally blurted out, overcoming the initial shock of encountering celebrity.
Soarin hushed Colgate, “Keep it down. Yes, that Soarin.” He checked to insure no one had heard.
“…and your last name is Hazard?” Sepia asked, giving Soarin an amused smirk.
“If you were a member of the Wonderbolts, would you advertise your name as 'Soarin Hazard'?” Soarin asked, hooves extended in a dramatic fashion, “I sound like an obstacle!”
“I didn’t recognize you without your flight suit,” Colgate observed.
“No one ever does,” Soarin said with both relief and sadness.
Sepia considered this, “So… Soarin… where does one buy a…”
“You’re not getting a flight suit,” Colgate interrupted harshly, “You’ll look silly prancing around your shop in a flight suit.”
“You’re not the boss of me,” Sepia muttered.
“I got you to attend this show, didn’t I?” said Colgate with a wink.
Sepia tried to come up with a retort, but found himself lacking.
The Doctor pranced into his TARDIS, represented by a blue refrigerator box with a hole in the back leading into the interior set. “Yet another adventure finished!” He cheered to his companion as she followed him in. “Where do you want to go next?” He asked in his hammy tone, one hoof resting on the poorly painted control hub, the other pointed 45 degrees upward.
“I don’t know,” the companion spoke in a stilted tone from her side of the console, and then turned to the audience, “Where do you think we should go?”
Sepia made an impolite suggestion.
The two actors on stage froze for a brief moment to recover their mental footing. “Well, my dear companion, we can never know until we get there! Allons-y!” He pulled a lever as the curtains closed.
The audience began to awkwardly stamp their hooves, unsure of what to make of the performance. Soarin, however, was extra enthusiastic. “Bravo! Amazing! Encore!” Soarin cheered as the rest of the audience walked away. Soarin finally stopped applauding once most of the crowd had gone. “Well, that was fun, don’t you think?” he asked.
“No, no I don’t,” Sepia said, standing up. Soarin gawked at his cutie mark.
“Wait a minute!” Soarin pointed at Sepia’s mark, “You’re Doctor Whoof, aren’t you?”
“Yes he is,” Colgate answered before Sepia could get snippy.
“Sweet apple pie, I never thought I’d actually get to meet you!” Soarin said, trying, and failing, to restrain his excitement.
“Right,” Sepia said, “It’s been lovely meeting you. I’m leaving.” Sepia trotted off, mumbling to himself as he escaped the mutual celebrity encounter.
“Hm,” Soarin scratched his chin, “I never imaged the real Doctor would be so grumpy.”
Colgate giggled. “Well, truth be told, Doctor Whoof doesn’t exist,” she said, “It’s just a bunch of rumors that sprang up about him. His real name is Sepia. Nice guy, really.”
Soarin gave Colgate a skeptical look, “Why’d you tell me he’s Doctor Whoof then?”
“Because he hates it.”
“I see.” Soarin stood for a moment, watching the clockmaker. “Suddenly the flight suit thing makes sense,” he said, “Granted, you’re right that he’d look silly, but fame is hard.” He balanced what was left of his pie on his head and started to stroll with Colgate. “At least I can take off the suit and blend in,” he concluded.
“You’re like a superhero!” Colgate said with a grin.
“Well… I guess you could say that,” Soarin looked at the clouds, “It’s not easy, being a Wonderbolt; a lot is expected of you. Young peagasi look up to me, so I have to be a good role model. Then those same fans grow up and become competition, so I need to constantly up my game to keep ahead of those gunning for my spot.” He rubbed his temples. “Everyday, other peagasi are getting faster, stronger, and better than the previous applicants. The last Young Flyers completion, there was one who broke the light barrier! How do I cope with that?” He paused to take a calming bite of his pie. “She did it while saving my flank, too.” He put the pie onto his back, and resumed walking, “It’s so nice to take a break, see a show, and just let the stress deflate.”
Colgate frantically tried to find words to reassure the celebrity, “Well… that must be very stressful,” she tried awkwardly.
Colgate looked back at the sky. “I used to be a weather pony, you know,” he said, then took a prideful look, “Could clear the sky in twelve seconds flat, didn’t even break sweat.”
“Really now?” Stupid Colgate, you’re talking to Soarin! Stop being an idiot!
“So-” Soarin said, then stopped when he was struck by an awkward realization, “Oh dear, I’ve been selfish. I don’t even recall your name!”
“Oh! It’s Colgate.”
“Colgate. Lovely name,” Soarin flashed a charismatic smirk, “So, Colgate, what do you do?”
“I’m an assistant clockmaker.” Colgate answered through her slight blush.
“Oh, that must be exciting!” Soarin replied with sincerity.
“Yes, it is.” Colgate said. “It’s like… you know, great, assembling complex… stuff.” How does Sepia do this?
“Perhaps you could show me?” Soarin asked, “If that’s okay.”
“Yes, well, I’m not that great of a teacher.” Colgate scratched her head, “Sepia, however, could prattle your ear off just over how to properly measure out sand.” This is true, as she had learned first hoof the day she started at Sepia’s.
“Well then, I’ll just have to ask him, won’t I?” Soarin said, “If I didn’t offend him too much.”
Colgate nodded her head. “I’m sure he’d love to have you watch,” she said, “He’ll latch onto anyone interested in how he does his job. He pretends to be gruff and world-weary, but it’s just an act.”
Soarin dramatically waved a hoof and declared, “Well then, lead the way, Colgate.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
“Sepia! I’m back, and I’ve got a friend!” Colgate announced as the two entered the workshop.
“Oh yes, lovely.” Sepia was building various toys from the scrap pile, cello music playing softly in the background. “When I took over this business from my father, my one hope was to create Ponyville’s greatest social spot.” He gave Colgate a look, “Dreams really do come true.”
“Good to see you again, Sepia!” Soarin greeted, ignoring the sarcasm.
The clockmaker paused. “Hello again, Mr. Hazard,” he said at last, glancing around the shop, “What can I do for you?”
“I’m just curious about the exciting life of clock-crafting,” said the pegasus.
Sepia gave the pegasus a weary look, “Really now…”
“Oh yes, it seems interesting.” Soarin flashed his reassuring smile again.
“You’ve crashed into too many clouds, haven’t you…?”
“Irrelative!” Soarin said, “And I was medically cleared after each crash.”
“Well, I’m just making toys at the moment,” Sepia said.
Soarin walked over to the work bench. “May I give it a try?”
“Sure,” Sepia said, his tone turning positive, “It’s simple. First you take an axel, insert it into a wheel, put a cog somewhere along the way, and then you place a wheel at the end.”
Sepia guided the stunt flyer through how to make the machine, helping hold the pieces in place here and there, until the small key-powered engine was completed. Sepia let Soarin shape the tin outer casing, making what Soarin claimed was a mouse, but looked to Sepia to be lump of tin on wheels. “Who’s a cute little robot mousey?” Soarin asked, placing it in the now-empty pie tin, “I shall name you Mr. Squeaky.” Soarin looked at Sepia, “So, what do I owe you for the lesson and toy?”
“Nothing,” Sepia said, sorting out pieces for the next one, “I just appreciate the interest.”
“Oh, it’s not right for me to learn your trade secrets and give you nothing back,” Soarin said, “It’s only right if I taught you something in return.”
“The moment I build clockwork wings, I’ll be sure to take you up on that,” Sepia replied with a slight chuckle.
Soarin blinked, “That’s… not actually something you actually do, is it?”
Sepia couldn’t help but give a moment of consideration to the image: him up in the sky, canvas and clockwork wings granting the earth pony flight. Ponies would certainly have stories then. However, it would certainly take a lot of winding, and even then, it would be hard to get the proper amount of lift to counteract the weight of the clockmaker. “It’s… not something I currently intend to pursue, no…”
“Well, I’ve got to do something.” Soarin said, stamping his hoof.
Colgate, minding the shop this whole time, trotted in. “Could you get us tickets to the next Grand Galloping Gala?” she suggested, eyes agleam, “We’ve always wanted to go.”
Soarin arched an eyebrow. “You sure? It’s actually a very dry event. The only notable thing to ever happen was the unforeseen chaos last time, and that’s seriously a once in a lifetime thing.”
“I just want to be able to say I’ve been,” Colgate said with a shrug, “He just wants to meet his cello-playing crush.”
“I am merely a fan,” Sepia said sharply, giving a glare in Colgate’s direction, “This is how awful rumors get started, you know.”
Soarin chuckled. “I’ll tell you what, not only will I get you two into the next gala, but I’ll introduce you to Octavia personally,” he said, “Fair warning, though: she’s not a huge Doctor Whoof fan.”
“What a coincidence, neither am I!” Sepia exclaimed, hardly holding back his excitement, “Soarin, you are rapidly becoming my best friend.”
“Aw, thank you,” Soarin replied, and then looked at a clock. “Hey, is that time right?”
“No, I’m afraid it’s running slow and needs a new spring.” Sepia stared at the clock for a moment, “I probably should repair it… and get back to the mayor…”
Colgate glared at her irresponsible boss, “Wasn’t that a couple weeks ago?”
“Maybe…” Sepia said, “but that’s beside the point.” She probably hasn’t noticed, honestly.
“Well, not to be rude, but I need to go,” Soarin said nervously, “I’m running a little late for a date so… thank you again, and I’ll see to your gala tickets when it next comes up.”
“That’s okay, we don’t want to inconvenience you,” Sepia said, “You honestly don’t owe me anything.”
“Oh no, it’s no problem,” Soarin said, “Thank you for the company, and Mr. Squeaky.”
Sepia and Colgate walked Soarin to the door, and he waved to them as he flew off towards Canterlot. Sepia and Colgate waved back as he left.
“What a pleasant guy,” Sepia said, cheerily, “More ponies should be like him.”
“I wonder who the date’s with?” Colgate asked no one in particular, a hint of disappointment in her voice.
“Did you really have to pressure him into promising us gala tickets?” Sepia changed the subject, “Now I’m going to feel guilty the entire time and won’t be able to enjoy Octavia’s performance.”
“I didn’t pressure him into anything,” Colgate turned defensive, “I merely made a suggestion! He was the one who want to do something for us.”
“He didn’t need to. I liked the audience,” Sepia said.
“I know you do,” Colgate said with a sigh.
The two stood and watched Soarin fade into the distance.
“Well, I think we’ve left the mayor waiting long enough.” said Sepia, “You think you can replace the spring for me? Shouldn’t be too hard.”
“No problem,” Colgate replied, “I’ll do it in a minute.”
Sepia looked at his assistant. “I wouldn’t worry if I were you,” he said with a smile.
“Worry? I’m not worried about anything,” Colgate replied.
“Whoever he’s seeing tonight, he’ll probably be thinking about you the whole time,” Sepia said, rubbing Colgate’s head.
“You’re mocking me.”
“Yes. Yes I am,” Sepia said, “But that doesn’t make it any less true.”
Colgate watched Sepia walk into the shop. “You big softy,” she muttered.
“I heard and resent that!” Sepia called back.
Colgate stuck her tongue out at Sepia, and then went back to cloud gazing. Something, however, seemed off. She squinted at the cloud line, and then turned her gaze downward towards the surrounding landscape. She finally figured out what was wrong.
“Sepia… its August, right?” Colgate called in.
Sepia considered the question, “Well, in my professional opinion as a timepiece maker I can say, yes, it’s August. Why?”
Colgate studied the landscape, “So… it’s summer, right?”
Sepia came back out to check on his young assistant, “Why do you ask?”
Colgate pointed, “It’s winter over there…”
|
CanvasWolfDoll
|
1016
| 5 |
Doctor Whooves,Minuette,Original Character,Princess Luna,Trixie,Adventure,Comedy,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Sepia Tock: Adventures of the Ponyville Clockmaker
|
Sepia Tock is not Doctor Whoof
|
complete
| 172 | 2 |
<p>Sepia Tock is an artisan, friend, and citizen of Ponyville. He is not, however, Doctor Whoof.<br/>This is his story</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-07-22T07:10:22+00:00
|
2012-07-22T07:10:22+00:00
| 2,763 |
“Well this is… odd…” Sepia said, observing the field of snow around the frozen pond. He stood at the edge, which was perfectly rounded. The field seemed to expand the closer he and Colgate got. “Let’s see. There’s snow, bare trees, and plenty of cloud coverage… It is certainly winter here.”
“Yes, I can see that.” Colgate remarked, “Thank you for vocalizing the obvious.” She prodded the snow as sepia back up inspecting the skies. Judging the coverage to be real enough, she walked to the lake, and tested that to, “You know, I might as well take this opportunity to do some midsummer ice skating.” She turned around and, to her shock, saw that the localized winter had spread over the entire town, and Sepia was oddly missing. “Sepia?” She called out.
She heard no reply.
“Sepia? Where’d you go? I can’t-” She interrupted herself with a gasp as Sepia materialized, galloping towards her.
“Colgate, what’s wrong?” he said.
“Turn around.” Colgate instructed.
Sepia turned completely around and saw the sudden shift in town season. “Wait there for a second.” He instructed Colgate, and galloped to where he entered, vanishing abruptly. After about half a minute, his disembodied head appeared, “Colgate, mind coming out?”
Colgate ran to where the head was, and was met with a sudden shift in terrain and temperature, “What is it?”
“I’m not sure.” Sepia answered “Mind standing here for a minute?” He began galloping around the parameter, vanishing around an unseen turn. “Can you hear me?” He shouted over to Colgate.
“Yes!” She called back.
“I can hear you too!” Colgate suddenly appeared at the other side of the pond. “How about now?”
“Yes, I can hear you!” Colgate responded.
“I didn’t hear a response. Can you hear me?” Sepia tried again, and waited to hear a reply. He galloped around the pond, and towards where Colgate should be, soon finding himself back in summer. He faced his assistant. “You could hear me in there, right?”
“Yes.” Colgate answered, “So, what did you find?”
“It seems to be a bubble.” Colgate answered, “Some sort of winter bubble.”
“What should we do?” Colgate asked anxiously.
Sepia shrugged, “I don’t know, not my department.” He walked off towards his shop, “If it’s an actual issue, I’m sure Twilight and friends will fix it. For now, I think I’ll just turn in early. Good night, Colgate.”
Colgate continued to stare at the winter bubble, “Good night, Sepia.”
Sepia was awoken by a rapid pounding on his front door. He stifled a yawn as he checked a clock. It was a little past midnight. He grumbled as went to answer the door, eyes screwed shut. “What is it?”
“They’re time bubbles.” The late night caller said, “They’re all over town. We need you, Doctor.”
Sepia slammed the door shut. “It’s too late for this.” He began to walk back upstairs, when another, less intense knocking started. Sepia sighed, and answered the door again, “Colgate?”
“Hey, Sepia… I’ve lost track, what time is it?” Colgate said, trying to look at the clocks in the darken storefront.
“It’s 1:07.” Sepia said, pausing briefly considering the previous guest, “Night after we found the snow bubble.”
“Oh good, I’m back in my home time.” Colgate said, “Bubbles are popping up everywhere, and they aren’t all winter.”
“Okay…” Sepia said, motioning Colgate to enter, “How bad is it?”
“Can’t say for sure. The bubbles are placed erratically in time. Ponies are getting lost, appearing in places twice, it’s all very weird.” Colgate followed Sepia into the kitchen, “On the way over, I passed through things that already happened. I saw the reintroduction of Luna twice.”
Sepia sat down at the kitchen table, “Okay, time bubbles are popping up everywhere.” He rubbed his tired eyes, “So, what do we do about it?”
Colgate shrugged, “I think it might be best to try and get everyone gathered in a non-bubbled area.”
“Where would that be?”
Colgate paused for a moment, “I don’t know. I’m suspecting the Everfree forest, but…”
Sepia rubbed his forehead, “Anyone already on trying to repair this?”
“Twilight and company have already gone off to try and solve it.” Colgate answered, moving to make coffee.
“How long ago was that?” Sepia said, chasing the final signs of tiredness from his mind.
Colgate gave the clockmaker a look, “Time is breaking at the seams. As far as I know, they could’ve been gone for five minutes; they might be three years away.”
“Right, right…” Sepia apologized, “Sorry, stupid question.”
“Lyra, BonBon, and Carrot are off trying to round up everyone from our time and gather them in a space spot.” Colgate said.
“How proactive.” Sepia said, “I’m guessing they sent you to retrieve Doctor Whoof.”
“Maybe…”
“Right.” Sepia lapped up some of the coffee Colgate poured for him, “Well, so far it seems my workshop is untouched. Why don’t we gather everyone here until either it’s compromised or the issue is resolved.”
“We can’t fit the whole town in the store.” Colgate answered.
“The library might work.” Sepia suggested
“It’s in the middle of a bubble.” Colgate replied, “One of Pinkie’s parties.”
“Everfree forest then?”
“Everfree forest.” Colgate confirmed.
Sepia stretched as he stood back up, “Right. Tell you what, why don’t you go on ahead, and I’ll catch up after I finish sleeping.”
Colgate gave Sepia a look.
“You’re not Fluttershy, that’s not going to work.”
Colgate kept staring.
Sepia was beginning to feel uncomfortable. “I was joking, let’s go… bubble… traveling…”
Colgate nod victoriously. “Come on then.”
Sepia sighed, “Let me just get my saddlebags. There’s a thermos in that cabinet if you want to bring some hot drinks.”
~ - ~
Stepping out into the chronologically challenged town was very disconcerting for the Clockmaker. While above, the moon glowed in its calming manner, the skies holding it a comforting dark blue, here and there it was disrupted by a rounded orb of daylight, which contrasted sharply, though its light seemed to be restrained to its personal bubble, none radiating outward to the surrounding area; size inconsistent between the bubbles. In one direction, the telltale smoke clouds of a sleeping dragon where impending; while in another direction, a crowd was forming for one of Rarity’s fashion shows. “So… time bubbles…” Sepia glanced around the bubbles, “I wonder how far back they go.”
“Sepia.” Colgate said, “It doesn’t matter. What matters is, they’re disrupting our lives.”
“Well, yes, certainly.” Sepia replied, “However, one must always look for the silver lining.”
“Sepia.” Colgate said, “Don’t mess with time. Promise me.”
“We don’t even know if these really take us back in time, or if they’re just delusions.” Sepia responded, “It shouldn’t hurt to try...”
“Sepia.” Colgate once again said, her voice edged with absolute no-nonsense, “Leave Doctor Whoof alone.”
“Fine…” Sepia rolled his eyes.
“Look at me,” Colgate said, “and promise.”
Sepia looked into Colgate’s eye, which lacked any sort of humor, “Colgate, you know me better than that.” Sepia gave her a reassuring smile. While it wasn’t nearly as warm and comforting as Soarin’s, Colgate nevertheless accepted it. “So, a circuit of the town, then meet up in the Everfree Forest?”
“That shouldn’t be necessary. The girls’ are on it.” Colgate said.
Sepia took this into consideration, “I think, perhaps, it might be a good idea to double check their work.”
Colgate gave Sepia a knowing look, “You really want to play in the bubbles, don’t you?”
“You got to on the way here.” Sepia defended himself, “Plus, I want to see if I can find a way to mess with Hoity Toity’s mane…”
“No messing with time.” Colgate reminded her boss.
Sepia nodded, “Okay, I’ll leave him be.” He trotted off to the fashion show, “I’ll meet up with you at the Everfree forest!”
“Race you there!” Colgate replied, going a separate direction.
Sepia smiled to himself and entered the crowd, and waited for the show to begin.
~ - ~
It was a fun experience, Sepia decided, moving through the crowds, re-experiencing past events, laughing witnessing the major event from a new direction and perspective. He also noticed the occasional pony doing the same as he, and carefully approached the duplicates to best ascertain who belong there chronologically, and who was sitting through a second showing. Each fellow bubble burster he found, he reiterated the plan, diplomatically used his position in town myth, and began the careful pilgrimage. What was beginning to worry him was when someponies appeared in greater numbers than two, but he decided to file the oddity under “Mystery for another day”.
The second collapse of Rarity’s reputation was more amusing the second time, as this time he knew of the ending. His plans to remain undetected was jeopardized when he suddenly found himself roped into assisting in the Winter Wrap-up a second time, but he managed to get through it without raising suspicion. The song was enjoyable as the first time.
Sepia made sure to make a special trip to Luna’s reintroduction. He watched Celestia announced how all was well now, and he considered taking a moment to reach out to the Moon Princess. No, got to keep continuity in check. So he merely stood back, and then quietly snuck out of that particular bubble, and straight into the marketplace of the past.
Merchants were announcing their wares as he trotted through. There wasn’t a crowd to blend into, but still, if he didn’t draw attention to himself, it should be fine. Except for a minor hiccup in the plan.
“You sir, care t' buy some apples?” Apple Bloom asked hopefully.
“No thanks.” Sepia replied, trying his best to exit the encounter.
“Why not?” Apple Bloom asked, suddenly springing from a cart of carrots.
“I have plenty at home.” Sepia lied, backing away. Truth be told, he was out of apples, and had kept meaning to replenish his supply, but he didn’t want to cause a paradox.
“Are you sure?” Apple Bloom, now behind him, pressed.
“Yes I'm pretty sure I...” Sepia had never been so frightened by such a small filly, if only due to her odd mastery of silent teleportation.
“You're pretty sure, but you're not absolutely positively completely super-duper sure, are you?” Apple Bloom tried.
“Y...ah...” Sepia stumbled, and decided upon a diplomatic route, “If I buy some apples, will you please leave me alone?”
“Aaal-right!” Apple Bloom was finally satisfied.
Sepia quickly threw some bit to Applejack, took an apple in his mouth, and fled as quickly as his hooves would take him.
“You forgot your change!” Applejack called after him.
No more of this, time to get to the others. Sepia thought, the market now in a few bubbles back. He decided to just keep the gallop, and just hoped it wouldn’t cause issues to abandon caution.
Finally, he jumped from the finally bubble into the night darkened Everfree Forest. “What took you?” Colgate greeted him with a triumphant smile, then took a suspicious glance at the apple.
Sepia gobbled it up, spitting out bit s of the core, “Unavoidable purchase.” He explained, “Won’t happen again.” He said with a nervous smile.
Colgate smirked to herself and turned to the tightly grouped ponies, “Alright, everypony, Doctor Whoof is here. I want you to give him your absolute and complete attention.”
“I am not-”
Colgate kneed him, “Time and place, Sepia, time and place.” She whispered through clench teeth.
“Fine” he gritted back, then took a commanding pose, “Hello everypony, I’m who you call Doctor Whoof. Now, if this were any other day, I would be doing my darnest to correct that, but in light of recent…” He paused, look at the bubbles, “whatever this is, I’ll take the false role, if only to provide comfort in terrifying times.”
The crowd blinked at Sepia.
Sepia blinked back, “Anyways, as I see it, it’s like this: time is repeating erratically, everyone’s scared, and the ponies we usually let handle this haven’t shown yet. Scary stuff.” Sepia began to pace, “As such, here are some simple rules: stay out of the bubbles as much as possible. We’re not sure to their nature or impact on history. Second, if you cannot avoid travel by bubble, do not go alone. When in the bubble, travel through large groups, and, for Celestia’s sake, don’t talk to yourself. It may sound like a fun experiment, comparing notes about yourself, seeing how’ve you changed, reminiscing, but (trust me on this) you’ll just end up hating yourself.” He paused his pacing, “Now, if you find anything out about what is happening, please don’t keep quiet. Share the information. Next order of business, we should plot the bubbles, and find out what’s what. Also, Princess Celestia. We probably should contact Princess Celestia.” He turned to Colgate, lowering his volume, “Mind handling that? Derpy should be able to make the trip.” Upon Colgate’s acknowledgement, he went back to commanding the civilians, “Now, I’ll need some good, strong fliers (Scootaloo, put your hoof down) to fly to the surrounding towns and see how wide spread this is.”
The air suddenly took on an odd texture, and the colors around Sepia seemed to lose hue. The ponies around him were no longer moving. Well, this isn’t good. He thought.
“Having fun, Doctor?” a voice whispered in his ear.
Sepia turned his head to face the challenger. There was empty air.
“Oh, watch the Doctor, desperately trying to sort this all out.” The voice said in his other ear.
“Who are you?” Sepia asked angrily.
The voice laughed, “Well, if you’re Doctor Whoof, I guess you could call me… Master Ragnarok.” It took a sinister edge with the name.
“You do realize Doctor is a higher degree than Master, right?”
“Oh, but it sounds so much more threatening, doesn’t it?” The voice whispered from a point behind Sepia’s head.
“Why don’t you show yourself, you coward?” Sepia yelled, growing tired of the game.
A polite cough volunteered itself from the crowd.
“Uh… excuse that.” Sepia said, “Just had an odd episode.
The crowd seemed to accept this.
“Anyways, flyers to surrounding area, and see how high the bubbles go, and if they dome. Unicorns, try to see if you can do anything through magic. Earth ponies.” Sepia paused at earth ponies, “I’m not going to lie, I’m not entirely certain what to have you do, so just sit tight. Once we’re done with the initial investigation, I suggest we try our best to go back to our normal lives.” He sighed, “Out of curiosity, anyone here know of a Master Ragnarok?”
The crowd shook their heads.
“I guessed as much.” Sepia muttered, “Alright then, we’ve got our jobs. We’ll stay here until the break of day our time. Any objections?”
There were no objections.
“Good then, let’s get to it.”
The crowd look expectantly at their hero.
Sepia gave them an uncomfortable smile.
Colgate whispered a suggestion in his ear.
“You’re joking.” He whispered back.
Colgate shook her head.
Sepia Tock sighed. He took a dramatic stance, balancing on his back legs.
“Allon-sy!"
|
CanvasWolfDoll
|
1016
| 6 |
Doctor Whooves,Minuette,Original Character,Princess Luna,Trixie,Adventure,Comedy,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Sepia Tock: Adventures of the Ponyville Clockmaker
|
Sepia Tock is not Doctor Whoof
|
complete
| 172 | 2 |
<p>Sepia Tock is an artisan, friend, and citizen of Ponyville. He is not, however, Doctor Whoof.<br/>This is his story</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-07-22T07:10:31+00:00
|
2012-07-22T07:10:31+00:00
| 2,792 |
The sun arose in the proper time, giving the assembled town a feeling of relief, as such regular events tend to do, giving those grasping at straws purchase, even if a small one. Sepia had spent was left of the previous night moving between the subcommittees of the confused ponies. He was with the ponies mapping the circles when the scouts and general experimenters returned, walking up to the flat stone being pressed into work as a table. “So, what did you learn?” Sepia asked the small group
“The bubbles are looping,” an orange pony said.
Sepia nodded, “I suppose that explains a few things... anything else?”
“They're dome shaped,” a pegasus continued, “They also appear to be exclusive to our town.”
Sepia noted the facts in a corner of the map, “Very good then. Any word on the source of all this?” The ponies around him shuffled their hooves awkwardly. “It's okay.” he said, attempting to put them at ease, “We're still making progress. Any word from the Princesses yet?” The motions of the ponies indicated “no.” Sepia dismissed himself and went to the ponies handling breakfast, “Colgate, may I see you for a second?” he asked.
Colgate passed her spatula off to another unicorn, and followed Sepia to a reclusive area outside of camp, “What is it, Sepia?”
“Where would I find a Doctor Whoof villain?” asked Sepia.
“What?” Colgate gave her boss a look of worry, “Are you feeling okay?”
“That voice keeps ringing in my head,” Sepia said, “I can't help but feel its owner is behind all this, and is looking for Doctor Whoof.”
“You do realize Doctor Whoof is still fictional, right?”
“Of course I do,” Sepia snapped, “That doesn’t change my question. If you were a villain from those stories, where would you be found?”
“I don't know,” Colgate answered, “It depends on the bad guy.”
“Well, okay,” Sepia sat down, “Where do I start?”
Colgate mentally debated what to say. “The old castle,” she finally said, “It's ominous, it's secluded, and it's dramatic.”
Sepia looked towards the general direction of the building, deeper into the Everfree Forest. He and the town had remained, until this point, at the fringes of the place, technically in the forest but still under the sunlight. Sepia really didn't want to go further. Even when he travelled through the forest, he never went so far in he could no longer see the edges of the forest. Still, something had to be done.
“Fair enough, I'll start my search there,” Sepia said, “Colgate, take charge while I'm gone.”
“Sepia, have you gone crazy?” Colgate asked, voice even, “You can't go there alone, Celestia knows what'll happen to you.”
“Look, I honestly don't want to,” Sepia said, “All I want to do is go home, eat some hay, and make clocks. I want to be Sepia Tock.” Sepia stood up, “Unfortunately, I don't get to be Sepia Tock today. Weird things are happening, our usual problem solvers are gone, so I have to be the Doctor.” Sepia paused, and then added, “I really hate that.”
Colgate sighed, “At the very least let me come with you.”
“No,” Sepia answered, “Someone needs to keep...”
“The other ponies can handle themselves,” Colgate interrupted, “Besides, if you're going to be the Doctor, you're going need a companion.”
“I don't need a companion.”
“Sorry, but you do,” Colgate shrugged, “I don't make the rules.”
Sepia looked at his assistant. “Fine,” He conceded, “But you behave yourself.”
Colgate gave a humorous salute, “Aye-aye, Doctor.” Sepia eyed Colgate. “Sepia,” she corrected herself.
Sepia nodded acceptance of the change, and went back to the main camp to announce his and Colgate's departure.
“So, I was thinking, what if we could design a clock that kept track of, not only the time, but also the day and month?” Sepia said to Colgate, trying his best to keep his mind away from the worry and panic that was threatening to erupt, “Sure, it'll be bigger than the usual clocks, but I think we'd be able to turn a nice profit.”
“Oh yes, I would certainly buy one.” Colgate replied, for much the same reason Sepia had brought it up, “However, wouldn't that require that require a twenty-four hour clock for the hour and minute face as opposed to…”
A nearby bush rustled, causing the two to freeze in their tracks with bated breath. When no threat presented itself, the clockmakers continued.
“Where was I again?” Colgate asked.
“Twenty-four hour clock” Sepia said, “I can see what you mean, we're still approximately five years away from perfecting the twenty-four hour clock, and then teaching everypony how to read the new face.” Sepia heard shuffling in a nearby tree, but decided it best not to mention it, shoving concern to the back of his head, “However, we merely have to design the date to shift when the hour hand reaches twelve twice. Give the day wheel half-turns to compensate.”
Colgate saw the logic in this, “Yes that should work.” They travelled quietly for a few hoof-nibbling seconds, so Colgate desperately searched for follow-up. “What about the months?”
“What about them?” Sepia asked, happy for the conversation.
“Well, they lack a regular number of days,” Colgate said, “They switch between thirty and thirty-one days.”
“Oh, you're right,” Sepia said, “Plus February changes year to year.”
“Might be easier to build a twenty-four clock,” Colgate said as they finally reached the rope bridge before the castle ruins.
“Well, that's a concern for the trip back,” Sepia said, and held his hoof up regally, “Ladies first.”
Colgate looked at the bridge, then at the fearsome castle. “I'll waive chivalry this once,” she said.
Sepia searched for a reply. “Come on, Colgate, no reason to be afraid,” he said with a forced smile.
“Then why don't you lead the way, Sepia?”
Sepia couldn't dispute the question, so he took the lead. “Promise me, if this all ends up unwound, they get my name right in the obituaries,” he said as they walked over the bridge and into the ruins.
“I will,” Colgate said, “Though I may have to throw a word or two in so ponies know what the community’s lost.”
“Sure, just be respectful,” Sepia said.
“So no clock puns?”
“No clock puns,” Sepia forced a smile to hide his concern.
The inside of the castle was no more pleasant than the previous scenery. Holes had eroded sporadically in the structure, moss and ivy carpeted and wallpapered the ancient stones, and general dampness abounded. Sepia and Colgate walked through the main hall and into the throne room where, frozen in place, stood Twilight and friends, faces full of panic, fear, and anger. A surprisingly ornate throne stood before them, where a gray pegasus sat, mouth curled maliciously, his orange eyes beaming at his two new guests. “Ah, Doctor, you’ve arrived!” He said with both excitement and joy, “And this lovely young mare must be your companion. How lovely!”
There was something eerily familiar about this pony, Sepia thought, but he couldn’t quite put his hoof on it. “Master Ragnarok, I presume?”
“Oh, please, just ‘Master’ will do, Doctor.” The Pegasus fluttered off the throne, “Ragnarok is merely a call to… earlier days. I’m better than that now.”
Sepia stared at his opponent. “So, you’re behind all the time bubbles, right?”
“Time bubbles? How quaint,” Master Ragnarok said, “However, yes, I am the one who left those around town. I’d get rid of them but, well, they’re so much fun, you know?”
“They’ve disrupted lives,” Sepia said, “Ponies are cowering in the Everfree Forest, frightened of them.”
Ragnarok chuckled to himself, “Really now? Well, that’s quite dandy. Nice to see my time spent practicing has already livened up the place.”
Colgate was examining Rarity. “How did you do this?” she asked as she prodded the white unicorn.
“Oh, it was just a matter of making a limited time field,” Ragnarok said, suddenly at Colgates side, as if he were suddenly drawn into frame, “For all intents and purposes, time is just not moving for them.”
“They… aren’t aware, are they?” Sepia asked, carefully picking his words.
“I wouldn’t know.” Ragnarok began walking back to his throne, then suddenly teleported to it, “I haven’t been in the position myself to observe.”
“You don’t have a horn,” Colgate said with the caution those talking to crazy ponies often have, “How are doing all this… timey-wimey stuff?”
“What, didn’t the Doctor tell you?” Ragnarok said, and then turned to grin at Sepia, “Surely you must know, right, Doctor?”
“Right,” Sepia said, “Just to be clear, I’m not actually Doctor Whoof. He’s rather… fictitious…”
“Don’t you dare lie to me!” Ragnarok snapped, rage suddenly filling his eyes, “You can’t fool me with such weak fibs!” He suddenly cut into a serene, if still crazy, attitude. “Excuse me,” he chuckled awkwardly, “I didn’t mean to get so upset. Got a bit caught up in the game.”
“This is all just a game to you?” Sepia was nervous. Not only was this pegasus a few grains sort of an hourglass, but he had powers to make the grains not matter at all.
“Oh yes, is that what life is to you after all, Doctor?” Ragnarok beamed, “Round after round of fun adventures, gleefully skipping around with that box of yours?”
“I am not Doctor Whoof,” Sepia repeated with an even, reasonable voice, “My name is Sepia Tock, I am only a clockmaker.”
“Liar!” screamed Ragnarok, “Naughty Doctor!” The pegasus blurred very briefly
Sepia suddenly hunched over in pain. It felt as if he had just been kicked in the stomach. “How are you even doing that?” he gasped out.
Ragnarok laughed triumphantly, “What, you still haven’t figured it out?” He brandished a silver pocket watch from his right wing. “Recognize this?”
The cover of the silver pocket watch bore the symbol of a winged hourglass, cogs filling the bulbs. Sepia had a suspicion that, if opened, the clock face would be clear, revealing the inner workings of the watch, each expertly placed cog doing its job, keeping track of the ever escaping resource.
“You have got to be kidding me,” Sepia moaned.
Ragnarok smiled triumphantly as he placed the watch back in his wing. “I must say, I’m surprised how cheap you let it go,” Ragnarok began to pace, “However, I suppose it makes sense. Deep down, you live for a good challenge.”
“I sold it to you because I thought it was an old pocket watch!” Sepia said, “I own a clock shop. I sell clocks.”
“Yes.” Ragnarok donned an expression of false pity, “I must say, Doctor, that is a terrible cover, don’t you think?”
“Hold on, hold on,” Colgate intervened, “Sepia, you sold that to him?”
“It was at the bottom of the sale box,” Sepia said, “It was covered with dust. I figured it was just an old watch, he seemed excited to have it, so I did the merchantly thing to do.”
“Of course he was excited to have it, it has time powers,” Colgate lectured.
“Had I known that, I would’ve charged more,” Sepia answered dryly. He looked at the gray pegasus. “Look, Ragged.” He felt that pain again. “Master,” he gasped, “Why? What’s the point?”
“Why does anyone ever do anything?” Ragnarok answered, “I want to go down in history. I will be the pony who defeated the mighty Doctor Whoof.”
“Oh, sweet Celestia,” Sepia muttered, “Fine, you win, I give up. Will you please stop URG!” He suddenly found himself flying backwards. He crashed into the wall behind, a brick falling out with him. “Fine then, how do you want me to surrender?”
“Surrender is for cowards.” Ragnarok hissed.
Sepia groaned, aches coursing his body, he walked up to Colgate, “Colgate, run.”
Colgate opened her mouth to argue.
“Just do it.” Sepia hissed.
Colgate looked at Master Ragnarok, who was laughing to himself. She turned to leave, and began a fast trot. Wihtout arning, Ragnarok was before her. “Now now, we can’t just leave, can we?” he chastised, “That would spoil all the fun!”
“Oh, let her go,” Sepia said, “It’s me you want anyways.”
“Certainly, Doctor!” Ragnarok said, “But what fun is a game if there are no stakes to back it up?”
Colgate backed away slowly, “It’s not exactly fair standings at the moment,” she said, “You’ve got… whatever that watch is, and we’ve got nothing.”
“You’ve got your wits,” Ragnarok said, mad smile on his face, “From what I understand, that’s all he needs.”
Sepia and Colgate exchanged worried glances.
“So then, Doctor, here I am. I can control the very nature of time, and I am challenging you.” Ragnarok teleported into Sepia’s face, “What’re you going to do about it?”
Sepia backed away, “I’m guessing asking nicely is out of the question?”
“Oh, what fun would just giving up be?” Ragnarok answered from his throne.
Sepia turned to Colgate, “So, you have any bright ideas?” he asked.
“Any ideas on how to battle a crazy, time commanding pegasus who teleports.” Colgate clarified, “Nothing occurs to me, no.”
“Doesn’t hurt to check.” Sepia said.
“What are we talking about?” Ragnarok whispered to the two.
Colgate and Sepia jumped back, “Fine, I’ll admit, there is no way I can defeat you.”
“Excellent.” Ragnarok said, “I suppose I should destroy you now?”
“Now, now, hold on.” Sepia said, trying to maintain a reasonable tone, “Are you sure you want to do that? Any old pony can win with such a clear advantage. However, what pony could succeed against an opponent who’s ready for you.” Sepia smile nervously, “Now, do you want to known as the pony that cheated their way to victory, or the pony who earned their victory?”
Ragnarok considered this, then grinned, “You know, you’re right Doctor. How rude of me. I failed to give you proper preparation.” He looked at Sepia, “Tell you what, I’ll give you until nightfall. I’ll be waiting at that insignificant clock shop I found you in.”
“That sounds fair!” Sepia said, “Now, we’ll just go, and I’ll be sure to.”
“Now hold on.” Ragnarok said, “I’m afraid it’s just you leaving.” He gave Colgate a sinister look, “I need some way to make sure you don’t run.”
In a blink, Ragnarok, Colgate, and his other time-frozen victims were gone.
Sepia Tock stood, alone in the throne room. “Hey, Sepia, everyone looks up to you, you can handle this, how hard can it be to fix it?” He said to himself in mocking tone, then sighed, “Good job, idiot.”
He turned and exited the throne room, starting the long trek back to the base camp, his mind desperately working to find a solution, but none was arising. For the first time in his life, Sepia was wishing he actually was Doctor Whoof. Maybe then he’d be able to fix this.
|
CanvasWolfDoll
|
1016
| 7 |
Doctor Whooves,Minuette,Original Character,Princess Luna,Trixie,Adventure,Comedy,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Sepia Tock: Adventures of the Ponyville Clockmaker
|
Sepia Tock is not Doctor Whoof
|
complete
| 172 | 2 |
<p>Sepia Tock is an artisan, friend, and citizen of Ponyville. He is not, however, Doctor Whoof.<br/>This is his story</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-07-22T07:11:30+00:00
|
2012-07-22T07:11:30+00:00
| 2,664 |
Sepia Tock wasn’t in a good place when Trixie arrived at the Ponyville refugee camp. While she never claimed to be masterful of psychology (one of very few things she’s never claimed), it wasn’t exactly that hard to deduce.
“Excuse me, Sepia? What are you doing?” she asked when she approached his improvised work bench.
“I am building a clock!” Sepia said, “I’m a clock-maker, it’s what I do best!”
Trixie looked at the tools and materials he was working with. “Really now," she said, “Will it be an especially good clock?”
“Oh yes, it will be the best clock in the world! It will tell you the time and date!” Sepia said, “I have hit a snag, though.”
“Really?”
“Yes, I just can’t teach this ferret to count!” Sepia said irritably.
“Could that, perhaps, be due to the fact your ferret appears to be a sock stuffed with turnips?” Trixie asked.
“That’s no excuse for laziness!” Sepia declared, then leaned over to Trixie’s ear, “Just between you and me, I think the ferret may have a few handicaps.”
Trixie blinked slowly. “Yes,” she said at last, “well, I hear that socks aren’t well known for their intellect.”
Sepia looked shocked and mildly offended, “My dear lady! I will have you know, just the other week, I attended a tea party with some delightful socks!”
“I’m sure you did.” Trixie said, reassuringly, “There wouldn’t happen to be somepony else Trixie could talk to, could there?”
“Well, you could always talk to my assistant,” Sepia said, “Colgate is such a very lovely filly. She always likes meeting new ponies. The two of you will hit it off nicely.”
“Where can Trixie find this Colgate?”
“Oh, Master Ragnarok is holding her hostage,” Sepia said, “Very scary, Master Ragnarok. Controls time, and wants me dead.”
“What?”
“Well, I think he wants me dead,” Sepia continued, “I’m not a hundred percent certain. He wants be defeated, at the very least. Mind handing me that screwdriver?” Sepia pointed to a rock.
Trixie levitated the rock to him. “Are you feeling okay?” she asked in a careful tone.
“Well, besides the mental anguish of having my assistant kidnapped by a madpony who thinks I’m Doctor Whoof, with me powerless to stop him, and him refusing to take on anypony besides me, plus the physical beatings he scored on me through time trickery, I’ve been feeling pretty good,” said Sepia with a manic smirk, “Hand me a screw?”
“Oh, I’m sure you’ve got plenty loose as it is,” Trixie mumbled, “Is there anything Trixie, the Great and Powerful, can do to help?”
“Nah,” Sepia said, “I’m doing well enough with this clock on my own.” He looked at the unicorn, “How’ve you been?”
“Well, I wrote to Princess Luna like you suggested, and she was more than happy to let me use the Canterlot Library,” Trixie answered, “I was just on my way there when I heard about the awful problem you’ve been having here, so I thought I’d come by and see what I could do.”
Sepia paused, revelation erupting from his face. “Trixie.” he said with a smile, “Do you think you could use your magic to make my ferret learn to count?”
Trixie looked at the sock. “I don’t think even Celestia herself could do that.”
“Oh,” Sepia looked dejected. His ears popped up as another idea sprung into his brain. “Wait, what if I asked the princesses to help me?”
“With the sock?”
“No no, Trixie,” Sepia said, “With Master Ragnarok! Surely they must have some idea about how to fix this! Trixie, fetch me paper and pen!”
Trixie gave Sepia a look that said “That is far below me.”
Sepia, regaining his senses, shook his head, retrieved the articles himself, and wrote a letter to the two princesses. When he was done, he called over Derpy.
“Yes, Doctor?” she asked.
“It’s Sepia,” the clock-maker said automatically, “I need you to take this letter to Canterlot and to the princesses straight away!”
Derpy saluted, “Aye aye, Doctor!” Derpy bolted off towards the general direction of Canterlot.
“About time,” Soarin said, revealing himself from behind a tree, “Took you forever to write that thing.”
“Soarin! Buddy! What’re you doing here?” Sepia said happily, “It feels like it’s been forever since I saw you!”
Soarin gave Sepia a reassuring pat, “Well, it’s only been a day, but I appreciate the sentiment. As for why I’m here…” Soarin fished a letter from his flight suit, passing it to Sepia, “Luna wanted me to get this to you. Unfortunately, due to time issues, I got here before I left, so I had to wait a bit so I don’t accidentally break something.”
“How did the date go?” Sepia said, opening the letter
“It got interrupted by the Gala,” Soarin answered.
Sepia looked up from weighing the ends of the letter down with the ferret and screwdriver-rock. “The Gala’s on?”
“Sepia, now’s not the time,” Soarin said, “You may want to save Colgate first.”
Sepia sighed, “Okay, okay, you’re right.” He turned to the letter.
My dear friend Sepia,
I write to you from a tea party I am hosting instead of attending the Grand Galloping Gala. It is quite the event, in which I, the puppets, Tia, and me again are in attendance. I would invite you to try and join us, but I know you have very important work to do, and I must not distract you from it. The situation you described in your letter is very unfortunate, and I am saddened you must face it. Celestia is distraught over the capture of her favorite student and her friends, and wishes me to impress upon you how much their rescue would mean to her.
Anyways, I think I should probably tell who you are truly going up against. To put it poetically, you are, indirectly, battling the mother of Celestia and me. She and our father are the creators of this world. Our father had the power to create mass and matter, and he created the lands and sea, from the biggest mountain, to the tiniest grain of sand. Our mother started the movement of time in this world. Their magics then created life, starting with my sister and I, then moving on to animals, plants, and such, gifting them a fraction of their power so the new life could create further life. However, as the world expanded, and life blossomed, they feared they’d be incapable of maintaining balance, so they crafted the three breeds of ponies to assist with the functions of the world, each acting, if you’ll excuse my pandering metaphor, as a cog in the larger clock that is our world.
Over time, the ponies took over all the smaller duties of the world, leaving only the sun and moon beyond of their capabilities. When my sister and I finally mastered the tasks ourselves, our parents found that they were no longer necessary. My father intended to fade into mythology, and join pony society to enjoy his art. My mother, who I suppose I take after, went mad from the feeling of being obsolete. She did horrid things, which I do not currently wish to relive, so you’ll have to take my word. My father was forced to step in. He found the greatest clockmaker in Equestria and, together, they crafted the perfect watch in which to capture Mother. After a fierce standoff, she was sealed within the watch, and those knowing of it were sworn to secrecy to prevent the artifact’s misuse. Today the all that is left of the dark time before my Mother’s imprisonment is the Everfree Forest.
We purposely lost track of the clock, leaving no record. Obviously, some fault in the plan has arisen, as you are now tasked with reclaiming the watch. Now, I cannot say for certain, but I am suspicious that Ragged Rocks, or Master Ragnarok as he calls himself, may be a descendent of the original clock maker. I dread what could have possibly driven him to do the things he has, and what he may do in the future if he cannot be stopped. Unfortunately, due to the inherit magic of my sister and I, we cannot come in contact with the watch, in fear that our Mother will be freed and do awful things.
Luckily, Ponyville has you to help them. Now I know you don’t wish to fight it, as you are not what the populace thinks you are, but I must insist it be you, alone, who retrieve the watch from him. Sorry to press such a dire directive onto you, but that is where we stand. If it makes you feel better, you will most likely be rewarded for your service, and I will make sure every publication credits you by the correct name. Good Luck
Your Friend,
Princess Luna
PS: I have given the mailpony a muffin as per your request, and she is very grateful. She also portrays the Brigadier General very well, which is also appreciated.
Sepia carefully rerolled the letter, setting it aside so he could add it to the rest of the letters once he got home. He looked at the supplies he’d attempted to make a clock with, ignorant how he intended to accomplish anything with what was laid out before him.
“So… what did it say?” Soarin asked.
Sepia shrugged, “It said… stuff… stuffy stuff. Important stuffy stuff. Secret stuffy stuff.”
Soarin nodded at Sepia’s words. “Experience tells me that’s the best kind of stuff,” he said.
“I like stuffy stuff,” Trixie agreed, “However, how should I, the Great and Powerful Trixie, fix this?”
Sepia looked at Trixie, “Step one: stop with the grand language. No offense, but all this is very time sensitive, and…”
“Point made,” Trixie said, “Blunt language it is.”
“Good,” Sepia said, “Second: Soarin, could you still clear a sky in twelve seconds?”
“I’m afraid, at last check, it takes me thirteen seconds,” Soarin admitted, “Will that be a problem?”
“No, I just need somepony fast,” Sepia replied, “Trixie, you studied plenty about illusions, right?”
“The great…” Trixie started, but caught Sepia’s eye, “Yes, I’ve mastered illusions.”
“Can you replicate another pony?” Sepia asked.
“Pfft, child’s play,” Trixie answered.
“Disguise a pony with an illusion?”
“Even simpler,” Trixie answered.
“Good,” Sepia said, “I have a plan, and I’m going to need both of you.”
Master Ragnarok sat in the clock shop, smiling widely to himself, staring out the big storefront window. He had made a small bubble around the window so he could watch it snow. He always enjoyed snow. There was something relaxing about it. He watched the window fog up and a light layer of ice grow from the corners. He kept staring until he grew tired of it.
He looked to Colgate, her face frozen in simultaneous surprise and displeasure. “Staring contest!” he announced. He leaned forward slightly, staring straight into her unblinking blue eyes. The two stood, one frozen by time, one frozen by a madness that seemed to be radiating. Ragnarok kept it up for a full minute before he finally blinked. “Oh, you cheater,” he said in a playful fashion, “You’re lucky I have too much integrity to cheat like you do, Miss Cheater-pony… face.”
Ragnarok slumped behind the sales counter, head on hooves, lost in thought. He sighed a sigh of boredom. He looked to his prisoners, crowding the store. He walked into the kitchen, and was struck by an idea. The water took mere moments for him to boil, and he infused the leaves into it even faster. He moved the seven ponies around the kitchen table, and laid out a spread. “Thank you all for attending the first weekly Ragnarok Social club meeting! Now, I know we have relatively few members at the moment, but I believe that gives it all a much desired intimate feel that socials should have.”
“Thank you for having us,” Ragnarok’s voice emanated from the still Twilight, “I just wanted to ask: what is your favorite book?”
“That is a very good question, my dear,” Ragnarok said, “Unfortunately, I never had much time to read. Then again, I suppose I have all the time I’ll ever need now, don’t I?”
“Excuse me, Master,” This time it was Fluttershy, “I was wondering if you wouldn’t mind passing the tea cakes?”
“Oh, the tea cakes, I forgot!” Ragnarok said, “Give me just a second.”
A second latter, a platter filled with delicacies materialized on the table, “There we go!”
“Ooh, cupcakes!”
“Easy now, pink one,” Ragnarok said, “You don’t want to get a cavity, do you?”
“You need to keep care of your teeth!”
“You’re right, Miss Companion,” he remarked, “Dental hygiene is very important.”
“Excuse, Master Ragnarok?”
“Yes, hatted one?”
“Would you mind relating to us your life story?”
“Oh, you wouldn’t want to hear that.” Master Ragnarok said with badly faked modesty.
Ragnarok voiced encouragement from various points around the table.
“Okay, okay.” Ragnarok waved his hooves back and forth slowly, “It all started when I was a young colt. My grandfather would relate to me the tale of the clock so perfect, so in synch that it contained time herself.” Ragnarok leaned in a bit, “Time’s a mare, you know. Anyways, my family, for generations, has been clock makers. My father, his father, his father, his aunt for some reason, her father, on and on, as long as there have been clocks, my family’s been making them.” Ragnarok ate a cupcake, “However, I observed that, when you get down to it, no one’s become famous from making clock, but everyone remembers a good villain.”
“Fascinating observation, Master!” The lavender one said.
“Indeed. So, I began hearing tales of Doctor Whoof, and I thought to myself ‘Well, there’s a way to be known by everyone!’ So I set out to be the greatest villain in Equestrian history, with step one being utterly defeating the greatest hero! So I decided what I needed was that watch. Hence, my cutie mark!”
Hoof stomps echoed.
“Thank you, thank you, I know, it’s utter genius,” Ragnarok smiled to himself, tapping a hoof, “I wonder how long until he’ll get here. I hope he doesn’t just skip our little date.” Ragnarok looked at Colgate, “You’re his companion, what do you think?”
Colgate said nothing.
Ragnarok idly tapped his hooves. He wondered back into the shop, and looked at the clocks for sale. He had to admit, they were excellently crafted. Very beautiful. Then again, the Doctor probably had plenty of time to learn a trade or two. Ragnarok went into the workshop, and looked at the works currently in progress. He stopped at one clock, and saw that it was running slow. It seemed the spring was over stretched. Ragnarok flipped it over, removed the back, and carefully removed the spring, found the proper replacement, and carefully threaded it in. He wound it and checked that it was working properly. He replaced the back. “How unprofessional.” He sighed. He went back to the store front and waited. He supposed he could’ve sped up time, but good things are worth waiting for, and there was snow to watch.
|
CanvasWolfDoll
|
1016
| 8 |
Doctor Whooves,Minuette,Original Character,Princess Luna,Trixie,Adventure,Comedy,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Sepia Tock: Adventures of the Ponyville Clockmaker
|
Sepia Tock is not Doctor Whoof
|
complete
| 172 | 2 |
<p>Sepia Tock is an artisan, friend, and citizen of Ponyville. He is not, however, Doctor Whoof.<br/>This is his story</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-07-22T07:14:20+00:00
|
2012-07-22T07:14:20+00:00
| 2,629 |
The sun was on its way to below the horizon, and the moon was getting higher. The bubbles seemed to have increased in numbers since the last time Sepia braved them. For the sake of blending in, Trixie and Soarin had left their notable outfits behind, stashed in a hollow tree to be reclaimed later. Soarin made to preemptively sign his flight suit in case it went missing anyways.
The three ponies carefully wandered the bubbles to Sepia's shop. “So, this Master Ragnarok is doing all this,” Soarin indicated the domes, “with a watch you sold him?”
“That's the general gist of it, yes,” Sepia answered, “I mean, there's some complicated history, and bad moves performed in ignorance, but yes.”
“I see,” Soarin said, “Could you make me one?”
“Even if I knew how, Ragnarok's got a one of a kind power source,” Sepia answered.
“I know, but just imagine! I could rewind and get an outside perspective on my tricks!” Soarin said excitedly, “Best way to see where you went wrong.”
“You could fix your mistakes,” Trixie continued from Soarin's thought, “Plus it would really impress the crowd!”
“I'm sure it could,” Sepia said, unimpressed.
“Come on, imagine the possibilities, Sepia,” Soarin said.
Sepia tried to imagine.
“You could travel time, fight evil.” Trixie added, “You could actually be Doctor Whoof!”
Sepia thought on that point. He certainly could live up to those rumors. He thought of all the times and places he could go to. He could see the invention of the first clock, watch the construction of the mighty Canterlot clock tower, or attend a few of Octavia's classic concerts in pony. Foremost in his mind, however, were certain words from Luna's letter: the watch was constructed to keep perfect time. You could look at it at any moment, and know what its face tells you is absolute. Never lose a tick, never have to reset the hands, always have the exact time.
The cog work of the thing must be absolutely breathtaking.
“Sepia?” Soarin waved a hoof in front of Sepia's face.
Sepia snapped out of the day dream, “What? Sorry, did you say something?”
“We're here,” Trixie pointed at the clock shop.
In Sepia's eyes, there was something haunting about it. He was filled the terror born from the knowledge that, in your home, right now, something malicious waited for you. “Right...” Sepia said, foreboding in his voice, “I'll take the main entrance; you two go around back and get his prisoners out of there while I keep him distracted.”
“Will you be all right?” Soarin asked, worried.
Sepia gave his friends a nervous smile, “Oh yes, he can only kill me.” The watch and its powers came to Sepia’s mind, “Several times. Over and over. Until he gets bored.”
The three stared at the store, knowing they really should enter, but didn’t want to be the one take charge of the situation.
“That sounds horrible,” Trixie said to Sepia, looking over her shoulder, “Last chance to get out of here. Set up a new clock shop in another town, never speak of this again.”
“I can't do that,” Sepia said with a sigh, “Apparently I’m the only one who can put a stop to this, and everypony is counting on me. If I fail, please tell Colgate the store is hers. She'll do a terrific job with it.”
The three stood in silence again.
“For Equestria?” Soarin suggested.
“For Equestria,” Sepia and Trixie echoed.
They set out on to accomplish their missions.
“Ragged, I'm here!” Sepia announced, entering his shop. He looked at his clocks. They were all off, ticking to their personal own beats, each telling a different time, a hoofful running backwards.
“Ah, Doctor, you've come! I was getting worried,” Ragnarok said, exiting the kitchen, mad grin on his face. He spread his wings out dramatically, “Here we have it, the big confrontation. The final battle! The Doctor's last stand! What fun this will- what're you doing?”
Sepia looked over from the clock he was working on, the glass cover open, “Just correcting this.” He closed the clock, then looked around his shop, “Did you really have to mess them all up? It’s really hard to maintain them all as it was, it’ll take me forever to get them back on track.”
“I got bored,” Ragnarok answered grumpily, “It was something to do.”
Sepia pointed to a small group, “Those three are running backwards.”
“You took a remarkably long time.”
“This one is built backwards!” Sepia looked at a specific specimen, “Even the face is reversed! Why?”
“Ponies love those,” Ragnarok said, “Fun gag, you know. Real conversation starter.”
“I see you stopped that one,” Sepia pointed at another.
“That one is actually broken.” Ragnarok said, his eyes analyzing the timepiece “It was like that when I got here. I was just about to repair it when...” Ragnarok stopped himself, considered the conversation, and angrily looked at Sepia, “Oh will you stop stalling!”
“You're right,” Sepia admitted, looking at the clock, “It is broken. How'd this splinter get in there?”
Sepia removed it from the wall, trotting towards the workshop, sneaking a quick glance to the pegasus and unicorn moving Pinkie and Fluttershy out the back door of the kitchen. Three ponies were left before Soarin and Trixie could help deal with Ragnarok.
“Will you drop the act?” Ragnarok demanded angrily, time-jumping into the workshop, “You’re not fooling anypony!”
“Hey, Colgate finally replaced the spring!” Sepia remarked after setting his clock down on a work bench besides the Mayor’s clock.
“Stop ignoring me!” The grey pegasus demanded, stomping a hoof.
“Start being interesting,” Sepia retorted, picking up tweezers. He went flying, colliding with the hourglass builder, turning its blow torch on. “Ack!” He spit his tweezers out of his mouth, “Be careful! I nearly swallowed that!”
“When I'm done with you, that'll be the least of your worries,” the pegasus hissed, then dived at the brown earth pony, who barely avoided the strike by jumping to the side.
The torch broke off, setting fire to the oil that was pooling from the tear in the fuel line. “Great…” both ponies remarked. Sepia caught Ragnarok's angry glare, and bolted out of the workshop and into the shop proper.
Ragnarok chased after Sepia, “Get back here you… what the hay?”
Five Sepias were standing in the shop, looking at Ragnarok.
“Okay, how’re you doing that?” Ragnarok asked.
The Sepias didn’t answer, but they did increase, walking in from the kitchen and down the stairs.
“Seriously, stop, this is weird,” Ragnarok said.
The Sepias kept appearing.
Ragnarok let out an irritated scream and jumped at a nearby Sepia, who vanished. Ragnarok searched around in confusion real quick, and then tried another Sepia, who also vanished. Ragnarok stood up, a victorious grin slathered on his face, “Ah, illusions, huh? Well, I’ll just have to keep attacking until I find the real Doctor!”
“You do that,” Sepia’s voice said from somewhere in the crowd, “I don’t know what our upper limit is, but I’m sure you won’t have time to try everyone. Besides, you set fire to my shop.”
Ragnarok fluttered into the air, “Huh! It’ll be easier than you think!” He chuckled evilly, “I have all the time in the world!”
“No you don’t,” Sepia answered simply.
Ragnarok let another evil laugh, “Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten about my distinct advantage.” He displayed the watch, the chain looped around his left wing, “Still, it’d be such a hassle to beat every last one of you… Oh, I know.” He glided swiftly into the workshop, where the fire had spread to engulf almost the whole room. Ragnarok grinned to himself and picked up a wooden clock that was beginning to burn, and flung into the store proper, then fluttered back over to it, concentrating the watch’s magic on it, causing a rapid expansion of fire, which began to lick at and evaporate Sepias, none of them reacting to it. None, that is, except one, who backed away from the encroaching flames. “Got you now!” Ragnarok announced.
Sepia bolted for the door.
Ragnarok chuckled a little, “Silly Doctor, you can’t escape me that easily.”
Sepia shouldered the door open, stopping outside to pant.
Ragnarok stopped time, happily trotted to grab an extra propane tank from the kitchen, brought it to the world of no time with him, and then tossed the tank into the flames.
Sepia gritted his teeth, silently praying that Ragnarok would still play his part.
He heard the loud explosion.
Sepia looked over his shoulder and saw his entire store engulfed in flames.
Ragnarok appeared before him, laugh that mad laugh of his, “What are you going to do now, Doctor? You can’t beat me.”
Sepia gave Ragnarok a calm gaze, “How quick are you with that watch, Ragged?”
Ragnarok gave Sepia a confused looked, “What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Well, I guess the better question is, can you stop time in less than twelve seconds?” Sepia clarified.
Ragnarok scoffed, “Time is irrelevant to-”
He was interrupted by the force of a light blue pegasus, at high speeds, thunderclouds streaming from behind him, slamming in Ragnarok, pinning him to the ground.
Sepia calmly walked over to Ragnarok and removed the watch from his wing, setting it carefully outside the reach of the defeated pegasus. Sepia looked at Soarin, “Did Trixie get out of there?”
Trixie trotted over from the side of the burning building. “Don’t worry about me,” she declared, “such a pedestrian thing as an explosion cannot possibly stop the Great and Powerful Trixie!”
Sepia shook his head at the pegasus on the ground. “Well, then, Mr. Rocks, what do you have to say for yourself?” he asked.
Ragged struggled under the stronger Soarin. “Get off me!” he shouted, “That’s no fair, Doctor, you cheated!”
“Why can’t you be a good loser?” Sepia asked, “Besides, who would the Doctor be without his companions?” Trixie and Soarin smiled triumphantly at the line. Sepia leaned in to give Ragged a hard glare, “Now, let’s get this straight right now: Doctor Whoof is not a real pony. Never was, and never will be. You have terrorized the poor inhabitants of this town in pursuit of a fairy tale. There is a refugee camp set up in the Everfree Forest. The Everfree Forest, Ragged. You have made ponies so afraid of their own home that they sought sanctuary in the Everfree Forest!” Sepia picked up the watch, “Now, how do I use this?”
Ragged grinned, “Hand it over and I’ll show you.”
Soarin slapped the smug pegasus.
Sepia sighed and opened the watch, looking past the glass face at the interlocking gears, each turning and doing their part of the overall assembly. Inside lurked the powers of time itself. He just had to connect with it.
Knowledge flowed into Sepia’s mind. The method and process of the power became clear to him. He smiled, and waved a hoof at a nearby time bubble, and it shrank away until it ceased to be entirely. He then dismissed another bubble, and another. He went over to where the seven frozen ponies had been placed by Trixie and Soarin and gently tapped Colgate, who awakened.
“Sepia!” she screamed.
‘Whoa, calm down, it’s okay,” Sepia said, waving his hooves reassuringly, “It’s okay, I’ve got the watch now, and Soarin has Ragnarok. It’s over, everything’s fine”
Colgate looked around, her eyes stopping at the shop. “Sepia, the store is on fire.”
Sepia looked at the store. He blinked twice. “Okay, that’s still a problem. Uh, Trixie, would you mind getting the weather patrol to put this out?”
Trixie ran off to retrieve the team.
Sepia smiled at Colgate, “So, how was it?”
“Like a really long blink.” Colgate answered, “One moment I’m in the castle, the next I’m here.”
“You weren’t aware at all?”
“Nope.”
“Good.” Sepia rolled the tension out of his shoulders, “Well, I’ll start cleaning up, why don’t you get back to base camp and contact the princesses.”
Colgate nodded, “Okay then!” She ran off.
Sepia walked over to Soarin, “Think you can hold him until the authorities can take him.”
“Why don’t you just freeze him like he did to them?” He pointed at Twilight and friends.
Sepia shook his head, “No. As poetic as it would be, I refuse to be so cruel.”
Soarin nodded to this wisdom. “Fine, it’s your watch,” he said.
Sepia looked at the watch. The greatest clock in existence, containing time itself. “Actually, to be fair…” he trailed off, and looked at Ragged, who had given up struggling, “I owe you a new watch, I’m afraid, since you do pay me for one.” Sepia smiled, “I’ll try to make it as similar to this one as possible.”
“What happened to not being cruel?” Ragged groaned.
“Well, I could refund you the bits if you’d like.” Sepia offered.
Ragged just went silent, choosing to patiently wait to be arrested.
“Have your way then,” Sepia said, “I’ll just tidy this all up now then.”
Sepia started with the flaming ruins of his home. He could see thin outlines now, where past, present, and future were pressing against each other, and resumed unsummoning the small bubbles littering the area. Unfortunately, the explosion was an event firmly planted in the present, so he had to leave the store in flames. He then set about removing the larger bubbles throughout Ponyville, bring each pool of past back to the present. When he was halfway through cleaning up the town, the weather patrol had finally wrangled up the rain clouds to extinguish the store, so Sepia paused his efforts to investigate the remains. He carefully moved rubble around, checking if there was anything immediately salvageable. He found one trinket that had managed to be unscathed. He smiled to himself as he picked it up, “Good to see you’re alright, buddy.” He said.
The tin dog said nothing. Sepia smiled whimsically to himself, setting it down on a stable table, only lightly flamed licked, and went back to the bubbles.
He made short work of them, the frozen ponies, and the wall of time distortion between Ponyville and Canterlot. Town cleaned up of chronological interference, the ponies of the town began to head home, gossiping about what went down, speculating as to what occurred while the Doctor was away, and the incoming guards of the realm.
Sepia, Trixie, and Soarin gave a report to a unicorn with a notepad as Ragged Rocks was taken away, wings restrained so he wouldn’t out-fly the guards. Once the guards were gone, Sepia sat with his friends, looking at the burned structure before them, “Well then, this is disappointing,” Sepia said.
“What’re going to do with the watch now?” Soarin asked.
“I haven’t decided yet.” Sepia said. They kept silent for a moment. A thought came to Sepia’s mind, “I need to go and stop the Gala from looping, don’t I?”
“That would be nice, yes.” Soarin said.
Trixie stood up first, “Well, I need to take advantage of the library anyways.”
Soarin stood up next, “Yea, and I have a date to finish,” he said reluctantly. “Then again, perhaps I could easily weasel out at this point,” he added contemplatively.
Colgate stood up, “I’m going along too because… I have nothing better to do, my job burned down.”
Sepia stood up and stretched, “You think we can catch Octavia while we’re there?”
“You’ll still need tickets,” Soarin answered, “Sorry.”
“Oh, well,” Sepia sighed, “I’ll just have to wait for next year then.”
“Hey, grab a ticket early. Use a little watch magic, and it won’t be so bad,” Colgate said.
“I’ll think about it.” Sepia lied.
|
CanvasWolfDoll
|
1016
| 9 |
Doctor Whooves,Minuette,Original Character,Princess Luna,Trixie,Adventure,Comedy,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Sepia Tock: Adventures of the Ponyville Clockmaker
|
Sepia Tock is not Doctor Whoof
|
complete
| 172 | 2 |
<p>Sepia Tock is an artisan, friend, and citizen of Ponyville. He is not, however, Doctor Whoof.<br/>This is his story</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-07-22T07:14:36+00:00
|
2012-07-22T07:14:36+00:00
| 4,444 |
A crowd was beginning to build in front of town hall, whispering among themselves about the ceremony. Behind the curtain, Colgate was fretting over Sepia’s tie. “Are you sure about this one?” she asked, “I still have time to go grab a neck tie.”
“I feel no shame in bow ties,” Sepia said, “They’re fancy, fun, and they don’t get caught in things.”
Colgate rolled her eyes as she straightened the piece of neck decoration, “If you say so, it’s your celebration.”
“Yes,” Sepia said, “Yes it is. It’s pretty nice, being celebrated for what I’ve actually done.”
The Mayor her position at the podium, “Fillies and gentlecolts, today we honor another of our brave citizens with the Prized Pony of Ponyville Award!”
This elicited cheers and stamping.
“This pony has been a long time benefit to our society; keeping our everyday lives functioning in subtle ways. If it weren’t for him, our fair town would have descended into chaos long ago!” Sepia nodded to this. He always thought clocks were important, and it was nice to hear it acknowledged. “More recently, his brave actions have brought down a terrible threat, and restored our town to its timely state. I speak, of course, of Doctor Whoof!”
Sepia Tock and Colgate, in unspoken agreement, walked away, abandoning the celebration.
“Should we leave a note?” Colgate asked as they trotted off.
“As many times as we’ve done these events, when was the last time anypony was behind the curtain?” Sepia answered, “They’re used to it.” They ignored the cries of confusion when the curtains finally opened and went to the store, where a few contracted ponies were putting the finishing touches in place, including hanging a sign reading ‘Sepia Tock’s Clock Shop’. “At least the community paid to rebuild the shop,” Sepia remarked, “I’m going to miss that old sales counter and desk, though.”
“Oh, it wasn’t that great. You’ve got a real sales counter now, with a safe,” Colgate said, “Anyways, we should probably get to work on restocking and fixing the salvaged clocks.”
Sepia followed Colgate into the new store. It was expanded a little, now taking up the entire first floor, with the shelves now built into the walls. The kitchen had been moved upstairs into Sepia’s living space, and the workshop into a newly built basement, with a safe storage area for fuel tanks.
Currently, the salvaged stock was piled against the far wall of the workshop. Sepia rubbed his hooves together. “Alright then, where should we start?” he asked cheerfully.
Colgate looked at the pile, and removed a clock, “How about this one?”
Sepia sighed upon realizing what it was. “How long ago did I say I was going to fix that?” he asked.
Colgate did some quick calculations and then reported, “A month, I think.”
“Well, bring it over here,” Sepia said, “I’m still going to charge her full price. I did save the world and all.”
“As is your right,” Colgate said.
Sepia studied the clock carefully. “Well, replace the scratched cover, double check the functionality, and I think it’s good to go.” He pointed at a pile of clocks that were beyond repair but still could be cannibalized for parts. “See if you can find a glass cover over there, and I’ll check the spring,” he told his assistant.
“How big?” Colgate asked, looking at the pile.
Sepia grabbed a ruler, laying it by the clock. “Thirty centimeters,” he answered.
Colgate found a cover the correct size, unscrewed it from the clock, and passed it to Sepia, “This work?”
Sepia compared it to the face, then unscrewed the hinges of the old cover and replaced it with the new one. “It’s perfect, thanks!”
“I’ll just start on another then,” Colgate said, going back to the ‘to be refurbished’ pile.
Sepia finished checking the clockwork, and then placed it in a saddle bag that he then donned. “I’ll go see if the Mayor is ready to receive the clock then.”
Colgate waved him off, “I’ll be here.”
“Excuse me, Mayor? You in?” Sepia called into the office as he peeked in the door.
“Oh, Doctor! It’s good to see you! You missed your award ceremony!” the Mayor said from behind her desk.
“It’s Sepia Tock,” Sepia corrected her, “Anyways, I’ve got your clock. Sorry it took so long to get it back to you.”
“Why thank you!” The Mayor said, taking the clock and hanging it on its hook, “How much do I owe you?”
“For time and parts, about ten bits,” Sepia answered.
The Mayor considered the price, “You did take a whole month to return it to me.”
“I’m sorry, I was a bit busy with, you know, the time bubbles and related chaos.” Sepia answered, “So, ten bits.”
The Mayor conceded and retrieved the money, which Sepia happily accepted. He turned and left the building and began his walk back to the shop.
“There he is!”
“I did you hear how he saved the day last time?”
“The pegasus was completely loco!”
“The food in the fridge is for me, please stop stealing it.”
“Trixie is apparently one of the Doctor’s companions now! How cool is that?”
“Burnt the entire place to the ground!”
“It’s a good thing we have Doctor Whoof around.”
Sepia just had to smile for himself. Sure, they still hadn’t got his name right, but at least the story was actual his this time around.
“Colgate!” Sepia called when he entered the store.
“Yes, Sepia?” Colgate pranced down the stairs, levitating a plate holding a slice of cake.
“Where’d this new door come from?” Sepia asked, “And why do we now have gaurds?”
“Oh, it was a gift. Luna brought it over.” Colgate answered, “She also brought some cake. Want some?”
Sepia gave the door an appraising look, “Nah, that’s okay.” He closed the door, “Anyways, how many clocks do we have left to… Princess Luna is here?”
Princess Luna walked down the stairs, “Oh, Sepia, there you are! We cut into the cake without you, I’m afraid, I hope that’s okay.”
“Good day, Princess.” Sepia greeted, “That’s alright about the cake, thanks. Thanks for the door too, I guess.”
Luna smiled, “I thought it would be a fun little addition to the store.”
“It’s certainly…. An addition.” Sepia replied, and walked over to the safe, turning the dial to unlock it, “Anyways, while you’re here, I might as well give you these.” He pulled out a metal box and key, placing them on the counter, “I know you said you and Celestia couldn’t come in direct contact with the watch, but I thought putting it in some sort of container would help. Then, for extra security, I designed the lock myself. Integrated clock components, so it won’t open until an hour after you turn it with the key. I hope that’s okay.”
Luna looked pleased, if a little confused, “Oh yes, that’s a brilliant idea, but… are you sure you don’t want to keep the watch yourself?”
Sepia shrugged, “What am I go to do with it? I’m not a time traveler; I’m more than happy with the present.” He looked longingly at the box, “Though, I do admit, I wonder about its construction. I can tell a true lover of the craft built it, why else would he make the cog work viewable through the face?” Sepia got a distant look in his eye, “It would be nice to know how one makes the perfect watch.”
“We can certainly let you study it for a while.” Luna suggested.
Sepia shook his head. “Then what?” he said, “I’d know how to construct the perfect clock, sure, but then all the mystery is gone. I’d have nothing left to strive for.” He pushed the box towards Luna, “So, no, I don’t want it. You and your sister better keep it.”
Colgate slid over to Sepia, “Are you sure? I mean, come on, all of time in your hooves. Think of the adventures.”
Sepia gave Colgate a look, “I don’t want adventures, Colgate. I’m still reeling from the last one. More would just be a headache.”
Luna smiled, “I figured as much. That’s why I wanted you to retrieve it.” Luna picked up the box and key, “Any other pony would just abuse the power. I knew I could trust you not to exploit the opportunity. You’re just too boring.” She smiled happily, “Anyways, the ponies of Equestria thank you for your service. If there’s ever anything we can do for you, don’t be afraid to ask.”
“If I ever need anything, I’ll just add it to the letter.” Sepia answered, diplomatically ignoring the bit about him being boring, “Anything I can do for you, Princess?”
Princess Luna thought for a moment. “Well, Felicity has been wondering what you’ve been up to,” she said.
“I’ll be sure to attend your next tea party; just send an invite,” Sepia answered, “I’ll even drag Colgate along if you’d like.
Luna clapped her hooves. “Oh that would be great. The more the merrier!” She calmed to a simple smile. “Well, until next time, Sepia Tock.” Luna and her guards left for Canterlot.
“A tea party with Princess Luna,” Colgate said distantly after a time, “What should I wear?”
“I’m sure anything or nothing will be fine,” Sepia answered, transferring some of the more valuable items into the safe, “Just as long as you’re polite and aren’t rude to the socks.”
“Socks?” Colgate echoed worriedly.
Sepia gave his assistant a reassuring pat on the head, “You’ll do fine, don’t worry.” He then gave her a taunting grin, “I could probably even have Luna invite Soarin if you’d like.”
“Stop teasing me,” Colgate said with a giggle.
“I will if you promise never to drag me to another Doctor Whoof show,” Sepia bartered.
“No deal,” Colgate answered defiantly.
“Well, there you go,” Sepia said, “I’ll invite him anyways. Probably should also get Trixie an invite too,” Sepia continued with a thoughtful smile, then shook his head and snapped back to the present, “Now, let’s go fix some clocks! We have a business to reestablish.”
They began to work, rotating clock-crafting duties and store minding. The store wasn’t exactly busy, so minding the store wasn’t very thrilling, and Sepia made a note to set up some kind of system to alert him to arriving customers while in the workshop. Wouldn’t be too hard, he figured, just set up some sort of pulley system, and attach it to a bell in the basement.
“Hey, Sepia!” Colgate’s voiced pulled him from his wondering thoughts.
Sepia craned his neck to look down the stairs, “Yes?”
“What’re we going to do about hourglasses?” Colgate asked.
Sepia groaned. The machine needed serious repairs, but he couldn’t exclude the signature product of his store. “Have I ever taught you the old pipe and furnace method?” Sepia asked.
“No,” Colgate answered.
“Remind me to do that after closing time,” Sepia replied, “I should have the old pipe around somewhere.”
“Okay, thanks!” Colgate called up, “I’ll get back to the clocks now.”
Sepia went back to daydreaming behind the sales counter. He had lost many things in the struggle. However, they were replaceable, for the most part. The hour glass machine just needed some replacement parts here and there, and he didn’t have too many nostalgic possessions. However, the records he owned were utterly destroyed. That honestly did bug him. He was fond of the small collection he’d acquired over the years. Oh well, he’d just have to start from the beginning, see if he could replace his prized recording of Octavia’s first solo performance. He sighed. It had been so hard to find one the first time.
Colgate levitated a box of repaired clocks up into the store. “Where I should put these?” she asked.
Sepia shrugged. “Wherever, I guess. Doesn’t matter that much.”
Colgate took her box over to an empty shelf and started setting the clocks up for display. “I’m sure business will pick up eventually,” she reassured the clockmaker.
“I’m sure it will,” Sepia said with a yawn, “Hey, did the contractor remember to install a foal-height shelf for the toys?”
Colgate looked around briefly. “Yes, over there,” she said, indicating the shelf, “and the new window sill should be able to hold some.”
“Good, good,” Sepia said, ducking under the table to grab the beat up box containing the various tin trinkets, shuffling through it.
The door opened and a grey earth pony entered. “Excuse me?” she said, “Is there a Sepia Tock here?”
Colgate desperately tried to stifle a laugh.
“Yes, I’m down here.” Sepia waved a hoof from behind the counter, “Heavy box, weak neck. What can I get for you?”
“Well, I need a new metronome, and a friend of mine recommends your work very highly,” the customer said, “He said you don’t make metronomes normally, but you might if I ask nicely enough.”
Sepia finally got the box on top of the counter. “Metronome?” he said, “Sure I could make you one. Just give me a day or egads you’re Octavia!” Sepia’s eyes went wide. “You’re Octavia and you’re in my shop.” Sepia failed to keep a pitch change out of his voice.
Octavia gave Sepia a sweet smile, “Yes that’s me.” She looked around the shop. “Beautiful clocks you’ve got.”
Sepia tried to find words, but came up short, settling on an awkward, “Thank you.”
“I also like the bow tie.” Octavia added.
Sepia instinctively tried to look at the tie. “Oh yes,” he said, trying to recover from the slight blunder, “I was at a ceremony earlier, forgot to take it off.” Sepia shouldered the box and carried it over to the low shelf, setting it down, “Anyways, I’d be very happy to make you that metronome. I should have it completed by the end of the week, so you can come by Friday to pick it up. Or I could mail it to you, whichever is more convenient.”
“I’d be more than happy to pick it up myself,” Octavia answered, “How much will I owe you?”
“Well… I’ve never made a metronome before, so I’d say the experience is payment enough,” Sepia answered.
“Oh, I can’t accept that,” Octavia said, “You deserve payment for your work.”
Sepia’s eye began to twitch as his mental faculties began to overload with excitement.
Colgate stepped in. “Tell you what,” the unicorn said, “we’re still rebuilding from an awful fire last week. Would you happen to have any recordings of one of your performances lying around?”
“Oh yes, certainly,” Octavia answered, “Any one in particular?”
Colgate kneed Sepia. “Your first solo one!” Sepia spouted out, then recovered, “I, ah, lost my copy in the fire, and it was hard to find the first time around.”
“You sure?” Octavia said, “It wasn’t that good. I mean, I made a whole lot of mistakes all over the place.”
“I still like it,” Sepia said weakly.
Octavia smiled again, “Well, tell you what, I’ll bring a copy of my first solo performance, and an advance copy of my next recording,” She extended her hoof, “Sound fair?”
Sepia shook the hoof excitedly, barely hiding his ecstatic grin, “Oh yes, that would be perfect.”
Octavia carefully removed her hoof. “Then we have a deal.” She looked at the door, “If you don’t mind me asking? What’s with the door? It’s blue, and has weird signs all over it.”
“It’s an inside joke between me and a friend,” Sepia answered.
“Sounds fun,” Octavia said as she stepped through the exit, then stopped and turned around, “Oh yea, and Soarin told me to make sure to taunt you about something,” she placed her hoof on her chin, feigning forgetfulness, “but I can’t seem to recall what. Oh well, see you Friday, Doctor.”
Sepia sat in awed silence. A huge smile grew on his face, and he turned to his assistant, “That was Octavia! Octavia visited my shop!”
“Yes, I know, I was there.” Colgate answered with a whimsical smile.
“And she wants me to make her a metronome… how do I make a metronome… probably should go look that up.” Sepia looked at Colgate again, “Can you mind the shop while I make a quick trip to the library?”
“I can manage.”
Sepia said his thanks and trotted off to the library.
Friday came very fast, and Octavia returned to the shop, carrying a cello and the promised records, covers signed. Colgate was minding the sales counter. “Is my new metronome ready yet?” Octavia asked.
“Yes, Sepia’s got it down stairs,” Colgate answered.
“Would you two mind terribly if I try it first?” Octavia asked, motioning to the cello case strapped to her back.
Colgate waved her towards the basement stairs, “Go right ahead.”
Octavia went down the stairs and found Sepia working on a new clock Three hourglasses were standing nearby, filling with sand. She wordlessly went to the workbench, placed the records down besides the Clockmaker, and started the gentle beat of the metronome. She took her cello and bow, and began to play.
Sepia smiled to himself as he silently slotted a cog into place. Time seemed to slow as the two artisans worked in the basement.
End
|
KFJ
|
1017
| 1 |
Rarity,Comedy,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
Tom Wonders
|
A conversation with someone who was once loved, and still loves.
|
complete
| -1 | -1 |
everyone
|
2011-09-24T23:14:12+00:00
|
2011-09-24T23:14:12+00:00
| 1,644 |
Oh, hi there! Hi!
It’s so nice to see you! I’m Tom! I don’t often get visitors, well, I don’t ever get visitors, but hey! You’re here! Haven’t talked to anyone for the longest time! Being a rock sort of does that to you. It’s the gems that get all the attention and adoration, but no one appreciates a bland looking slab. In the middle of a field. Somewhere. Well, I used to have this really nice spot in a maze. Plenty of greenery to look at, pretty gardeners to ogle, wink-wink, nudge-nudge. You know, I found love in that place. There I was, just... Being a rock, I guess. (The gardeners had the week off, I mean, there’s only so many times you can trim a hedge per month.)
Imagine my surprise when a mare begins pawing at me! Now, this was the nice kind of surprise. She didn’t have any of those sexy sharp edges that gems have, or the blistering good looks of a nice chunk of magma, but she. was. beautiful.
Now, Spending an eternity as a rock in a tourist trap makes you see all kinds of curvy mares and fillies. But nothing could prepare me for this amazing being. If Celestia is the goddess of the sun, and Luna the goddess of the moon, then this mare was the goddess of beauty. Maybe not all ponies could appreciate her like I could. She had the perfect coloration of cement (Bags of cement are to rocks what supermodels are to ponies. Oh yeah.) and the smile of a well-weathered cliff.
And she talked to me! Not many ponies talk to rocks. Well, Princess Luna talks to my cousin all the time, but don’t tell anyone. I don’t want to see that appear in Neigh! magazine. Not ever. That scandalous publication takes pebbles and breaks them for fun, I swear! And I guess you’re talking to me right now. But you’re insane and talking to a rock. So the joke’s on you.
Now, where were we? Oh, yes. Love. If I had a heart it would be beating faster than a Ponatti Mareon. But I don’t. So it isn’t. (I’m also quite philosophic.) That beautiful mare managed to excavate me out of the surrounding cliff-face, and finally I could see the world! While being part of a famous cliff lets you see a lot of interesting ponies, it doesn’t exactly let you see the world.
And what a wonder this world is! I didn’t know that the clouds had gotten so pink, and the ground quite so... textile. But that didn’t matter, for I was with the love of my life. I know we couldn’t talk much, but no talking was needed. All that mattered was that she and I were together.
She had a name, you know. Rarity. Doesn’t it just roll off your tongue? I think it does, but I don’t have one, so you tell me. She also gave me a name. Tom. I’m pretty sure that I could feel my eyepebbles begin to leak back then. They still do, sometimes.
But alas, such love can never last. And when she was reunited with her friends, she abandoned me. Just an hour ago she’d fight to the death for me. But now she had other priorities. I’d never wanted to scream so bad before. “I’m here! Don’t abandon me!” I wanted to say, but no. Rocks don’t talk. She used to call me “Her diamond”, but I’m no diamond. She was probably happier with her friends than she could ever be with me. I guess I should be happy for her, that she lived happily ever after with her friends. But an eternity left in sorrow and solitude does a rock no favors. Sometimes I wish I’d never met her, but another part of me thinks that those few hours were worth it. That I should cherish every memory I have of her. Some say that time heals all wounds. But time does not heal the wounds of the timeless, and I miss her. I miss her so much.
|
|
tyion
|
1019
| 1 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-11-07T08:37:20+00:00
|
2011-11-07T08:37:20+00:00
| 4,401 |
“Next time, don't forget to ask the bees before you try and take their honey, Mr. Bear." With a sweet smile, Fluttershy hummed as she smeared ointment on the multitude of stings covering the brown bear who was sitting on a fallen log and sulking.
"There we go. It'll heal up in no time!" The bear looked back at her and let out a thankful growl before he turned to walk towards the forest. Everything was so peaceful and quiet here, it was almost like she was in heaven. Every animal was friendly towards each other, the plants and trees were just magnificent, and the birds quietly sang their melodies while flying around. She could just lie here forever, not worrying about anything, just her and the beautiful nature around her.
A distant scream, barely audible, disturbed the peace. It came from the forest right in front of her. Fluttershy tensed up, but she forced herself to calm. She thought it was just her imagination playing with her , but there was a second scream to be heard , this time louder.
Fluttershy stood up and began to walk towards the source of the scream. She paused before the forest, taking a deep breath. The forest looked intimidating from the outside. Inside, however, all the peacefulness was lost. She stepped forward. Neither birds nor bees sang, and their silence fueled Fluttershy’s fear. Yet she decided not to turn around. There was someone in trouble. She couldn't leave the poor thing alone. It was probably hurt, and needed medical treatment right away.
The brightness decreased in an rapid rate, and after awhile Fluttershy could barely see where she was going. There it was again, very close, thrilling Fluttershy with fear. She quickened her pace, nearly running, when suddenly the ground itself seemed to vanish under her hooves. The entire forest started to disappear right in front of her eyes. Full panic gripped Fluttershy. She struggled with herself. "Run away or help, run away or help, run away or help..." . In her confusion she started to fly, heading towards the sound of the scream, as everything behind her seemed to dissolve.
She felt it now; the origin of the scream was directly in front of her. Fluttershy saw the outlines of a pony like figure. She approached the pony flying, when she realized that she did not come any closer. In contrary, the gap between them enlarged. No, no, no, no she thought, trying to fly faster. She put all of her might into her wings. Fluttershy was feeling the exhaustion get the better of her and the flapping of her wings slowed down; every single muscle hurt. She tried to call for help, but no sound escaped her lips.
Fluttershy was not able to hold herself up any longer. Her wing beats slowed down even further, barely keeping her up in the air. “Come on, Come on” she said to herself. Her body refused to obey to her commands now. Her wings stopped flapping, and she fell into the void beneath her.
=====
Fluttershy awoke with a long gasp. She was back at her cottage, inside of her bed. Drowsy, yet happy that it was just a dream she got up on her hooves. She entered the bathroom, brushing her mane quickly.
Fluttershy made her way into the kitchen. She sliced some carrots and placed them outside of Angel’s hole. Afterwards she heated up some water. A tea was exactly what she needed in order to calm down now. While she waited for the water to boil, she looked thoughtfully outside of the window, gazing towards the Everfree Forest. Thinking of it, the forest in her dreams looked rather similar to it.
A shiver went down Fluttershy’s spine when she heard a distant voice screaming. This time it was real, somepony was really in trouble. Her mind tried to think of a solution. Should I call my friends? Twilight would know what to do right now, or at least Rainbow Dash. She was the brave one, not me. She let out a squeak when she heard another scream, before realizing what was happening, she ran anxiously towards the Everfree Forest. Every scream she heard henceforth was louder. She closed distance quickly.
Fluttershy stopped as she was standing before a huge cave. It was looking intimidating and dangerous. Her brain told her to run away, call for help, everything but to go inside.
No matter how much she wanted to run away, she could’nt. “There is no way I’m leaving something in trouble alone” Fluttershy said to reassure herself, before she entered hestitating.
As soon as she trotted inside the scent of rotten flesh immediately twisted her stomach. She observed her surroundings, the wall was covered in moss the ground was bumpy. The air was muggy, which caused a searing pain in her throat whenever she took a breath. She started trotting, being careful not to trip over something in this light forsaken place. She wanted to fly, but there were far too many stalagmites hanging down from the ceiling. Arriving at a crossing, she hesitated for a second before deciding to take the way to the left.
====
“Where is the pegasus when you need her?” Rainbow Dash let out a sigh, it was Saturday, which meant she and Fluttershy are supposed to practice together. Atleast Dash would be practicing, Fluttershy would just watch and cheer for her. Nevertheless the yellow pegasus was an essential part of her weekly training, her cheer gave Dash the motivation she needed.
It also was one of the rare occasions where they would spend time together. The two pegasi did not have much in common, Dash loved to fly, Fluttershy felt better with her hooves on the ground. Dash loved adventures, Fluttershy wanted everything to be quiet and “boring”, as Dash called it. They were like Day and Night, two totally different sort of ponies.
Yet, Dash loved to spend time with the timid pegasus. She did not know why, but it was the main reason she looked forward to the training sessions with her.
“Well, it seems like I’m on my own today,” she said before dashing into the air. She looped around and spun some clouds, being back at her starting position in no time. But somehow she could not enjoy herself, usually when she was training she felt free and didn’t care about anything, this time it was different. Something or somepony was missing.
Now that she thought it Fluttershy would never be late, let alone not appear at all. Dash could feel that something was wrong, she turned around and dashed off to her cottage.
"Fluttershy?” Dash knocked on her door, but no one answered
“Fluttershy?” she knocked again, this time the door opened up, but not by Fluttershy. Angel looked up to Dash, impatiently waiting for the pegasus to say something.
“Do you know where Fluttershy is?” she asked the bunny, purposely speaking slower than usual. Angel didn’t say anything, but he did point towards the Everfree Forest.
“The Everfree Forest? Is that pony out of her mind?” without waiting for a responde Rainbow Dash burst flying towards the forest. She had no clue where she should start looking for her, but she had to find Fluttershy. What if something happens to her? Simply the thought of this increased her speed.
“Wait, what was that?” she said to nopony in particular. She stopped for a brief moment to concentrate. Dash made out a distant scream. There it is again . It did not come from Fluttershy, but she was certain that the yellow pegasus wasn’t too far away from the origin of the sound. She dashed out off towards the source of the scream. She flew as fast as she possibly could, afraid that she might be too late for.... whatever may have happened.
She arrived at a huge cave. The scream came from inside there, what meant Fluttershy might be there aswell. Without hesitation she flew inside, the stench of rotting flesh sickened her instantly, but she pulled herself together and proceeded to fly towards the voice.
After her eyes got used to the lack of light in the cave, she started to see where she was heading. Dash stood before a crossing, one path leading to the left and one to the right.
Closing her eyes, she tried to make out any noise that could lead her way. She heard a distant noise, it was someone breathing. No, not breathing, panting. Somepony was in serious danger. She followed the noise until she reached its origin. It was a pony, a unicorn, with a blue mane and a moon with a wand as her cutie mark.
“No way,” Dash said. It was Trixie, and she was severely injured.
Dash didn’t know what to do; the unicorn obviously needed help, but she had to find Fluttershy. “I guess it can’t be helped”, she sighed lifting Trixie up on her back.
Now she had to find Fluttershy, if she would’ve followed the screams, she had to be in this cave and if she took the same way as Dash, Fluttershy would’ve found Trixie and returned, or at least be with her. “So she took the other way” Dash concluded flying the way back until she arrived at the crossing, this time taking the left path.
Rainbow found herself in a huge room. The walls had strange paintings on them, and it looked like something was written on the ground, but it wasn’t in any language she was familiar with it.Dash didn't pay too much attention to her surroundings, she was busy trying to find Fluttershy here. She flew some circles around the room. She had nearly given up and wanting to look for her somewhere else, but then she detected a movement from the corner of the room. It was a huge relief when she could confirm that it was indeed Fluttershy, but then she realized that the pegasus was unconscious. Her breathing was irregular, which couldn't mean anything good.
Rainbow Dash gently put Fluttershy on her back and burst off. Approaching the entrance of the room, she slowed down.
"Damn it." she said under her breath. Fluttershy needed medical treatment right away, but she couldn't leave anypony to die, no matter how much Rainbow hated Trixie. It took some time, but in the end she somehow managed to get both of them on her back. She started to fly towards Ponyville, out of this disturbing cave. She tried to speed up, but she just couldn't. The added weight of two ponies slowed her down too much. At this rate she would need hours to arrive in Ponyville, time she did not have. Fluttershy was now breathing a lot louder, and Dash could feel her heartbeat. It was irregular. Seeing her lifelong friend in this state was incredibly painful for her. What would she do if Fluttershy wasn't able to survive this?
Before she met Fluttershy, Dash was alone. She had to prove to everypony that she was the fastest, bravest flier in all of Equestria, and they all just liked her because of this. With Fluttershy it was different. Dash could just be herself. She didn't need to prove anything to her; she just accepted her, no matter what. The thought of losing her was unbearable, and she shed some tears while flying. Every single muscle in her wings were in intense pain. Her whole body begged for a break, but Dash couldn't allow that. "A pair of broken wings is not nearly as bad as a lost friend" she thought. After some time Dash realized that she didn't feel any heartbeat from Fluttershy anymore. She listened carefully. There was no heartbeat. Her eyes were now widened because of the shock.
"Oh nononononoono," She said while she was trying to build up more speed. "Come on stupid wings, hurry up!" She furiously flapped her wings now. The pain nearly made her fall into unconsciousness. She hadn't been in any agony like this before. But she had no intention of slowing down. Dash was now screaming in pain. Finally, she could make out the outlines of Ponyville. She had nearly done it. Pulling off one last dash, she raced towards Ponyville, and crashed down just before the hospital. Dash tried to stand up, but her body refused to. She couldn't move one single muscle.
"Just a few more steps..." was her last thought before blacking out.
|
tyion
|
1019
| 2 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-27T23:25:29+00:00
|
2011-09-27T23:25:29+00:00
| 3,161 |
Dash started to regain consciousness. She could feel a bed underneath her, and a soft pillow below her head. A familiar smell was in the air. It was like one of Rarity’s conditioners. She slowly opened up her eyes, and indeed Rarity was sitting on a chair next to her bed. "Oh darling, you’re finally awake!" she said while hugging Dash tightly. Dash hurt all over, and the hug, while appreciated, wasn’t helping
"Ouw, ouch" were the only words Dash could spit out.
"Oh my, I am so sorry. I think I got lost in the moment there. Are you feeling any better?"
"Now that I'm released from your embrace, yes I do, but don’t mind me. Where is Fluttershy?" Rarity didn't respond but simply pointed to the bed next to Dash.
"She’s stable, for now" the unicorn said, "The doctors ran a couple of tests and took some of her and Trixie’s blood." she added. Dash bit down on her lips, it was painful to see Fluttershy like this. She was laying on a white bed, wired to many devices that kept track of her heartbeat. "It is a horrible sight, isn't it?" Rarity said. Dash responded with a nod.
Some time passed before a Doctor came in, carrying some sheets in his hooves. "Do you know what the matter is, doctor?" Rarity asked him as he entered the room.
"We are not entirely sure right now, we never encountered a poison like this. We are unsure what to do against it. The poison’s damage to the organs are severe. It seems to slow down the heart, which leads to a lack of oxygen."
"Uhm, and that means?" Dash asked him. The doctor sighed.
"If we don’t find a cure, and fast, the victims are not going to recover and, eventually, die."
Dash repeated the sentence in her head at least a thousand times, but she still couldn't believe what she just heard.
"Fluttershy might ... die?!" She couldn't believe it. Her lifelong friend may end up dying...
"Is there nothing we can do?" Rarity asked with a blurry voice.
"I am afraid not, at least not right now" The Doc said before leaving the room. Two shocked ponies remained behind. The long silence was interrupted by a familiar voice.
"Is this the room?" Twilight asked while she was walking inside, the other three following close behind her. Their expressions abruptly changed when they saw Fluttershy and Trixie laying unconscious in their beds.
"Ah, what in tarnation happened?" Applejack asked Dash. "Hey Dash, Ah´m talkin’ to ya. Are ya even listening?" She added while walking towards the her. It was Pinkie’s turn to try and get her attention.
"Dashie, Dashie, Dashie, Dashie, Dashie, Dashie, Dashie, Dashie, Dashie, Dashie!" Still no response from Rainbow Dash.
"She is going to die ..." another voice said. Everypony looked towards the window where the voice was coming from. "If we can't find a cure, she wont be able to survive..." Rarity sobbed out.
"What’s going on now?" Twilight asked
"She’s going to die, Twilight, and I can’t do anything about it...” Dash screamed. She took a deep breath, calming herself before continuing. “The poison is going to kill her, and they don't know how to cure it. Hell, they don't even know why she has that poison inside her in the first place." Dash was now standing, tears streaming down her face.
"Oh Dashie, you always expect the worst." Pinkie said with a cute smile, while trying to fight back the tears that were trying to escape her wet eyes. "I bet there is something we can do to prevent that... Isn’t that right, Twilight?" the pink pony added.
"Well, I'm not sure, I have no information about that poison. But I’ll send a letter to Princess Celestia as fast as possible. She’ll know what to do for sure!" Twilight responded with a little grin on her face.
"Yea, Ah´m sure our princess knows what to do" Applejack added, and all of them started to get more optimistic about this whole situation.
==============
Twilight made her way back into her library. She had some of Fluttershy’s and Trixie’s blood with her, so she could examine and study it herself. As soon as she entered her library she called for her assistant. "Spike, I need you to take a letter." Twilight heard his footsteps while he was walking down to the entrance hall, rubbing his eyes.
"Uhm, okay Twilight," Spike said while taking out a scroll and a quill. Twilight started to dictate;
Dear Princess Celestia,
I´m afraid that we have a huge problem in Ponyville. One of our friends, the bearer of the Element of Kindness, Fluttershy and another pony named Trixie have intoxicated themselves with an until now unknown poison. The poisons damage to the vital organs are severe and will likely cause death if we can't find a cure soon.
We are in desperate need of your wisdom.
I’ll eagerly await your response.
Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle.
With those words being said, Spike exhaled and burned down the letter, sending it to Canterlot.
====================
Celestia had finished reading the letter that just appeared in front of her and started to make herself out of the castle. She took place inside of the royal chariot and told the pegasi to head towards Ponyville.
=====================
Twilight yawned while she was looking out of her window. The moon was starting to take over. She spend the whole evening studying the poison but didn't accomplish much. No matter what she tried, magic, chemistry, nothing seemed to separate the poison from the blood. "Oh, I hope Celestia knows what to do. I'm stuck here," Twilight said while rubbing her head. Suddenly there was a knocking at the door.
"Spike!" she called out, but when there were no footsteps or the usual moaning to be heard. She stood up to answer the door herself. "Number 1 assistant for sure." She said sarcastically. She sighed and opened up the front door.
"Hello, my faithful student," Celestia said when the door before her opened up.
"Oh! Princess, I thought you would send a letter first, but this is even better! I tried to solve the problem myself but I think this exceeds my knowledge about antidotes ... and magic" Twilight said with a grin on her face.
"Let’s go." The princess said. There was no emotion in her voice and Twilight had a bad feeling about this. She caught up with Celestia and walked alongside her to the hospital.
The whole way there were no words exchanged between the two ponies. Twilight wasn't in the mood to talk anyway. She thought about the consequences if Celestia wont be able to cure the poison. She tried to banish those thoughts, but they kept coming back. They walked through a corridor in the relatively empty hospital. At this time of the day, most of the ponies were at home. They entered the room where Fluttershy and Trixie were. To their surprise another pony was inside as well. It was Dash, sitting silently beside Fluttershy. Dash looked up and her eyes met with those from the princess. Suddenly all of her tiredness vanished away.
"I'm so glad you are here!" she said, sounding happy for the first time since this whole thing started. Celestia simply nodded and walked closer to Trixie. Her horn started glowing for a brief moment, her expression turned from her usual into a smile. Dash’s and Twilight’s faces lighted up when they saw Celestia smile.
‘She can cure it!’ They both thought. The sun princess stepped back and her horn lit up again this time in a blinding light. A magical orb formed above Trixie and a purple texture was slowly being drained out of her body. The whole procedure took around ten minutes. When the last bit of poison got sealed into the orb, Trixie suddenly let out a loud gasp, before falling into unconsciousness again.
"She isn't safe yet. I needed to drag out a lot of her blood to get all of the poison out. She needs some blood donated from another unicorn right away." Twilight simply nodded.
"I understand. I’ll go and find a nurse so the transfusion can begin as fast as possible." She stepped out of the room to make her way into the entrance hall.
"Well then, lets continue" Celestia said and walked next to Fluttershy. Dash stepped aside to make place for her. The alicorn closed her eyes and her horn started to glow again. Dash watched with a smile on her face, happy that her friend is going to be fine in just a matter of time. Dash was expecting that she was just going to drag out the poison like she did with Trixie.
But this time something was different. Her horn already glowed for nearly a minute and no orb had formed yet.
"Is something wrong?" Dash asked, trying hard not to sound impatient or unthankful.
"I.. I can't do anything for her..." Celestia responded. Her horn stopped glowing. Dash’s smile faded.
"What, what do you mean? You MUST be able to cure her!" She was desperate right now. If the princess couldn’t help Fluttershy, no one could. The sun goddess didn't respond. Her head was lowered. She wasn't able to look at Dash.
"What the hell do you mean? You’re the most powerful being in Equestria! You can lift the freaking sun!” She shouted. “You... you must be able to save her, you must, you must, you must..." Dash’s voice was starting to fade. Tears were streaming down her face and she was on her knees right now, directly in front of the princess. Celestia did everything to avoid her gaze.
"I'm so sorry," she simply said. "She inhaled too much poison. The concentration where she was must have been way higher. I can't withdraw the poison without taking away too much blood. There is nothing I can do"
"Then just take my blood! Take as much as you need, but please just save her." Dash sobbed out.
"I'm afraid that's not possible, we are not talking about small amounts like with Trixie. Nearly half of her entire bloodstream is intoxicated. I'm really sorry," Those were the last words Dash heard. She couldn't believe it. Dash was sitting on the ground, panting heavily. So much emotions wanted to just burst out of her, agony, sadness, anger, and so much more. She just started to scream as loud as she could, while hitting her head against the wall several times. The blood dropping from her forehead mixed up with her tears she shed and the only thing that ran through her mind was the question "What is she going to do now?"
|
tyion
|
1019
| 3 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-27T23:25:59+00:00
|
2011-09-27T23:25:59+00:00
| 3,264 |
Twilight was now being guided into a separate room, where she was waiting to get her blood drained out. The thought of helping to save Trixie brought a smile into the unicorns face, although she wasn't sure why. It didn't take too long until a nurse with a long needle came in. Twilight felt a short pain in her upper hoof where the needle got injected, but it disappeared as quickly as it came.
"We are going to examine your blood first. Security measures, so we can be sure that you don't have any contagious illnesses before we infuse your blood into your little marefriend." Twilight blushed slightly at that last comment. She liked the thought of them being a couple, but those were quickly banished by her mind.
She made her way back into Fluttershy´s room. Upon her arrival she realized that Celestia was nowhere around. She looked around the room and spotted Dash laying on the ground. The wall in front of her was marked with red spots. It was then when Twilight saw the injury on the pegasus forehead.
"What happened? Where is the princess?" Dash looked up to her and their eyes met.
"She can't cure her, Twilight. Too much of her blood is intoxicated. There is nothing left to do." Dash said quietly. She was too tired to speak up, the pain she felt in her heart was overwhelming. She never understood all those romantic novels Rarity read, with all the pain they talk about if someone they love died, but now she knew the feeling was unbearable. She just wanted it to stop but it didn't.
"Don't say that Dash, there is always a way. We just have to find it." Twilight tried to cheer her up. Some tears were dropping down from Twilight's face, but she tried hard to hold back others that might be coming out of her wet eyes. But in all honesty, what could THEY do even the princess can't? "Wallowing in sadness wont help anypony. We have to keep calm and find a way to save her" Twilight wasn't just trying to convince Dash that there was another way to save her. She was also trying to convince herself.
"You're right Twi" Dash answered. She stopped crying now and her voice regained some of its strength. "After all, were getting used to making the impossible possible, right?" She added with a small smile.
"We sure are, but first you need to rest. You should come to the library with me, your cloudhouse is farther away from here, and I can tell you faster about anything if you are close to me." That was only half her motivations though. Twilight also wanted to keep an eye on Dash. She knew how reckless that pony could be, and in a situation like this, she was pretty much unpredictable.
Back at her home, Twilight quickly set up a guest bed next to hers. She told Dash to go to sleep. She wanted to complain but then she realized how tired she actually was; besides she would just stand in her way while researching anyway. She laid down on the bed. It wasn't as comfortable as a cloud, but for an earth pony sleeping device, it was rather nice. She laid there and thought about Fluttershy. She didn't know why, but all that came to her mind was her kind, cute little smile. Dash was sure of it at this point. She wanted to be more than just friends with Fluttershy. It didn't take too long until she fell asleep with that thought.
=================
Dash woke up with a yawn. It wasn't the best sleep she had, but it took away her exhaustion and that was enough for her. She walked down into the main hall. When she stepped down the last step, she froze there for a second. The room was covered in books, hundreds of them were lying on the ground. "Twilight?" Dash shouted, tiredness slightly infiltrating her voice.
"Oh, you're awake already." The unicorn walked toward her, carefully avoiding to damage any of the books on her way.
"Already? It's nearly noon!" Dash responded.
"Yep! Time always flies by so fast when I’m studying" Twilight said with a little smile.
"Well, did you find out anything?"
"Mhm, not really, aside from the fact that NONE of my spellbooks have a spell in them that could be remotely useful for our purpose."
"That's at least something" Dash smiled back. After a brief moment someone knocked on Twilight's door. Dash flew above the mess and opened up.
"Twilight? I was just checking on Fluttershy in the hospital, and Trixie was awake. I figured I should call you. Maybe she can clarify what happened or what we can do." Rarity said without making any effort to come in.
"Thank you Rarity.” Twilight said. “I’ll go see her right now. I’m willing to bet she knows something useful. Dash, are you coming too?" Twilight asked.
"Yea. There’s nothing to do for me here anyway." Dash answered while flying out of the library. Twilight trotted out as well, closing the door behind her. All of them walked towards the hospital, hoping that Trixie might be able to help them out.
============
The whole way to the hospital, Twilight's thoughts were miles away. She tried to hide her desperation to not panic Dash even more. But the truth of the matter is, there were no spells in her spell books which could be at least a little helpful. She could create a new spell but that would take years, maybe even decades. Twilight concluded in her mind that, if Trixie wont be able to help them out with some information, Flutershy’s chances of surviving were anything but high. When they finally arrived at the hospital Twilight gulped down her thoughts and walked the same way they already walked a hundred times. They entered Fluttershy’s room. She was still in a coma, as expected. Trixie, on the other hand was awake. Her eyes were open. She looked tired and exhausted, but she was conscious. Twilight slowly walked towards her.
"Are you feeling any better yet?" she asked the other unicorn. Trixie didn't respond. Rarity tried her luck with the recovering unicorn.
"Can you tell us what happened, darling?" But again there was no answer given. Dash was at the end of her patience.
"Hey! Answer us! Its the least thing you could do for bringing us.. no, for bringing Fluttershy so much trouble!" The pegasus couldn't hold back her anger against Trixie anymore. It was HER fault that they were in this mess to begin with, and now she refused to cooperate? Dash angrily stomped right next to her bed. "Now, listen! You are the reason were in this mess, now stop being such an egomaniac and tell us what the fudge you know!" She burst out. Trixie didn't respond once again, she simply looked away from her and bit down on her lip. "I should’ve just let you die." Dash said before walking out of the room. Twilight saw the despair on Trixie’s face and tried to cheer her up a little.
"She didn't mean it. I am certain that she was just blinded by her anger" Rarity added "I’ll go and talk to her, before she tries something stupid" the white unicorn said before walking out of the hospital.
The room was now silent. The only thing to be heard were some occasional footsteps when a nurse passed the room.
Twilight made an attempt to break the uncomfortable silence "Is there anything you wanna tell me now?" she asked the blue mare again.
What happened next was the last thing Twilight would have predicted. Trixie burst into tears right in front of her. Twilight was shocked at first, but then slowly wrapped her hooves around the crying mare, trying to comfort her as well as she could.
"There, there. Just let it all out." Twilight said. She wasn't sure what she was actually doing, being in this situation for the first time. Everything she said and did was out of pure instinct. They sat there for quite a while, until Trixie released herself from Twilight's grip. The purple unicorn gave her a concerned look, but Trixie did everything to avoid her gaze.
"What's the matter?" Twilight asked her.
"No one is supposed to see Trixie like this ..." the other unicorn responded in a quiet tone.
"And why is that?" Twilight was about to lose her temper. THAT was worrying her?
"Trixie was an independent pony, who didn't need anypony and could take care of herself. Now look at her! She would have died without you and your little pegasus friend, and on top of all that, Trixie can't even keep my emotions for herself." Trixie cried out. She was angry, sad and annoyed at the same time. ‘Why are these ponies helping me?’ Trixie thought, ‘What do they want from me in return? I certainly would have left them to their fate.’
"Oh, you're so stupid, Trixie." Twilight said, while shaking her head. Trixie was about to say something, but the purple unicorn continued. "Needing help once in a while doesn't make you weak. In fact, it makes you stronger. You can form bonds with ponies, and those bonds can turn into friendship. And nothing is stronger than that." She said, smiling at Trixie. That smile. What was up with that smile? Trixie's tense muscles relaxed at the sight of that smile. She had a strange feeling in her stomach, a feeling she wasn't familiar with. She felt safe when Twilight was around. She felt like she was understood.
"Before my time in Ponyville, I was a lot like you. I hated the idea of having a relationship of any kind with another pony. I guess that's because I thought it was just a waste of time. But boy was I wrong. Its was not and is not a waste of time. The sensation I experienced when I knew I had friends who cared about me was unlike everything I have ever felt. It may be why I think about you that much since you arrived in Ponyville. I want us to have a binding like that as well." Twilight finished with a timid smile on her face, afraid that she may crossed a line with that last sentence.
"Trixie might consider your offer. It seems like you know what you are talking about," Trixie replied with what seemed to be a smile.
"That’s great! But for now you should get some rest, and ehm... uhm... if you haven't found a place to, you know ehm, stay yet, uhm, just so you know the library is pretty big for a single pony and ... I have a spare bed if you happen to, well, want to stay with me for your recovery?" Twilight closed her eyes, what was she thinking? Its way to early to ask things like this. Trixie must think she is a creeper now. Oh goodness, what had she done?
"I suppose Trixie could do that, but for now lets rest."
"Imsorryishouldnthaveaskedthat, uhm what? Oh... oh yeah we should. Goodnight then" Twilight replied before she stood up and made her way out of the hospital, trying to contain her excitement to not make a fool out of herself. As she closed the library door behind her she did some joyous jumps before lying down on her bed. She did it! She asked her to stay with her and she said yes. This made the whole situation with Fluttershy easier to bear. When the thoughts of her friend crossed her mind again, it instantly destroyed her good mood. Oh Fluttershy, I hope I can find a cure ... she thought before drifting into her dreams.
|
tyion
|
1019
| 4 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-27T23:27:36+00:00
|
2011-09-27T23:27:36+00:00
| 3,338 |
Meanwhile, Rarity had finally found Dash and insisted that she is staying with her over the night, so she can keep an eye on him.
"I'm fine on my own Rarity" Dash gave her an annoyed gaze
"Oh I know you are, but just in case your emotions get the better of you and you do something you might regret, let's just not argue about this please?"
Dash knew that there was no way she is going to win this fight; Rarity could be more stubborn than Applejack sometimes.
"Oh for goodness sake..." Dash said before flying into the Carousel Boutique.
Rarity allowed herself a pleased grin as she got her will. "You can sleep in Sweetie Belle's bed, she is on a sleepover with her friends" Rarity said as she guided Dash into the room of her little sister.
"Hurray, I get to sleep in a bed for a filly" Dash murmured to herself.
Dash's jar nearly hit the ground when Rarity opened the door of Sweetie Belle's room. It was huge. The bed alone was as big as Dash's entire bedroom; everything was decorated in a light purple colour mixed with some white schemes in between.
"I'm glad you like it" Rarity said with a smile. Dash wasn't somepony who liked things being too fancy, but this room looked amazing.
"You are free to call me whenever Sweetie Belle is not home" Dash replied with a grin.
"I'll keep that in mind. And Dash, and don't think too much about Fluttershy. I bet we can find a way to cure her." Rarity said with an ambitious expression. Dash simply nodded.
"And then you should really tell her" Rarity said while walking out of the room.
"Ehm what?" Dash asked, even though she knew what Rarity meant.
"Goodnight" the unicorn simply responded, leaving a blushed pegasus behind.
"Waaaaah" Dash said while rubbing her head and throwing it against the pillow. It didn't take long for her to fall asleep.
============
When all the other ponies slowly started to call it a day and drifted into their dreams, another pony - an alicorn to be exact, just woke up. Luna slowly made her way into the throne room to meet with her sister and take away her burdens for the night. It was nearly time to raise the moon, so she trotted in a faster pace than usual.
"Good morning - or evening, Celly" Luna greeted her sister while entering the throne room.
Celestia nodded when she realized that Luna was now present.
"What's the matter, dear sister? You seem kind of depressed"
"It is nothing, nothing at all." Celestia lied
"Your such a bad liar. Just tell me what troubles you, maybe I can help" Luna replied while shaking her head.
"One of my subjects is going to die ... and there is nothing I could do about it"
Luna was confused at that answer "Ehm, they are mortal sister there are always some who die, even in this very moment. It's just how things are"
"I know that, but it's a special pony. It's the element of kindness; she got intoxicated with a poison not even I can cure"
"What, how is that possible?"
"Do you remember when we defeated Discord using the Elements of Harmony? We turned him into stone, around 2.000 years ago."
The name of their old foe sent a shiver down Luna's spine.
"And in what way is that event related to the poison?"
"If you can recall, we encountered him in a cave which is located in what now is the Everfree forest. Remnants of the spell we casted using the Elements are still in the air in that cave. It thickens the blood and makes it harder for the heart to pump it through the body ... the victim slowly dies from lack of oxygen." Celestia sobbed out
"Can't you withdraw it somehow?"
"I'm afraid not, because it was created using the elements of harmony. And I do not...." Celestia hesitated for a second before proceeding "...posses magic strong enough to overpower them."
Minutes passed without any word being said. Luna tried to swallow what she had just heard. Even though she didn't spend that much time with the bearers of the elements, they still had a special connection. They saved her and forgave her, which was more than she could ask for. She also observed them during the night and did some attempts to get in touch with them, although in the end she was too shy.
But Luna owed them, she owed them a lot. She wouldn't let any of them die if she can prevent it.
"Celly, we can still use ..." Luna's words were cut off by Celestia
"No we cannot, it is too dangerous. If something goes wrong it would have horrible consequences" Celestia said with a harsh tone.
"I know that but Twilight is very skilled in the arts of magic. I believe she can pull it off without causing any unexpected events." Luna tried to convince her sister
"I cannot allow that Luna .... I just can't" The sun goddess sighed with a calm voice.
"I'm going to sleep now, could you lower the sun for me today?" Celestia asked her little sister
"Uhm. Of course, rest well" Luna replied with a nod as she made her way into the balcony to start lowering the sun and raising the moon.
Her horn started glowing in a dim light as she closed her eyes; she felt the sun above her slowly starting to lower. She guided it on its way down. After she was finished she took a long breath and did the same with the moon, but this time raising it instead of lowering it. After around twenty minutes she was finished, her horn stopped glowing and she trotted back inside.
Allowing herself a rest she sat down on the throne, it was rather exhausting for her to do both, but if her sister was able to do it for a thousand years the least she could do is take away her job just once in awhile.
Luna sat there for quite some time; there was nothing to be done. No major problems or paperwork. Usually she would appreciate a silent night like this, but she could really use something to distract her mind from the recent events she heard about. Luna let out a sight as she stood up and started to aimlessly walk through the castle.
After checking upon her servants, Luna found herself not having anything to do. She let out a sight and trotted towards the library within the castle. If she had nothing to do anyway, she could at least continue her studies.
"Oh goodness ... seems like my body took me here on his own" she thought while entering the archive. She didn't intend to go inside but her hooves almost moved on their own. Immediately upon arriving at an old, dusty bookshelf her horn started to glow. She pulled out an ancient tome and carefully laid it on a nearby desk. Luna recoiled for a second. Should she really disobey the direct orders of her sister? But she owed the Elements so much and had to repay them in someway.
She sat down on a chair in front of the desk. While opening up the huge book, she pulled out a quill and a sheet of paper. Luna looked at the register and searched for regeneration spells. she found one which looked appealing and opened up on page 244.
"Using this particular spell with accelerate the natural regeneration of the being, which the spell was casted upon. If it succeed it can cure even the greatest of illnesses. However if the ones casting the spell do not possess enough magic and endurance, the consequences can be severe; it can even lead to the death of the caster."
Luna gulped when she read the last sentence. The text was followed by a long description of how the spell has to be executed, and some sketches of "Pentagrams" as they were called. She tore out the three pages about this spell and started to write a letter.
"Dear Twilight Sparkle,
As you might have guessed from my greeting, this is not Celestia writing to you. It's me, Luna. I'm writing to you because I have heard about the state of one of your friends. And I wish to help, I am going to send information's of a spell with this note. This particular spell can cure your friend; however it is dangerous and can have fall-outs. Our grandmother forbid these kinds of spells seven thousand years ago. And Celestia also doesn't approve them, but I owe it to you to inform you that these possibilities exist.
I have no doubt that you will succeed with this spell, but use it at your own risk.
Good luck Twilight,
Sincerely
Princess Luna."
She hesitated before rolling up the letter together with the other pages. She closed her eyes and her horn started glowing. The letter burst into flames and disappeared completely.
"It is done. The rest is up to you Twilight" Luna thought before picking up on her recent studies.
============
Twilight awoke with a long yawn. She wanted to lie in her comfortable bed for a bit longer but her mind didn't allow that. She had so much to do; she couldn't just lie around. Letting out another yawn, she moved into the bathroom and took a short shower. The warm water relaxed her tensed muscles and her mind. She stepped out of the bathroom with a towel to dry her hair.
After she finished making her mane look more presentable she threw the towel on her bed and made her way to the hospital. There was no sound from Spike to be heard, so she assumed that he is still asleep. Closing the door behind her, she trotted towards the hospital.
Upon her arrival she realized that Rarity was already sitting next to Fluttershy. Her eyes were puffy and red with hastily dried tears. Twilight took a closer look and saw that Fluttershy was now incubated on a respirator.
"What happened?" Twilight asked Rarity with a hushed voice.
The white unicorn turned her head at the sound of her voice, letting out a sob before starting to explain the situation to Twilight. "I arrived here an hour ago and Fluttershy was wired to this... to this thing. I asked the doc what was going on and they told me that she had been through a surgery last night. She is stable for now, but they are "only delaying the inevitable" as they put it"
Twilight was shocked, "I thought I’d have more time. This is not good, not good at all." she desperately tried to think of a solution.
"Please Twilight, you have to find a way to save her," Rarity's voice started to crack "You sure got something in one of your books ... don't you?"
"I'll figure out something, I promise."
Rarity nodded. She was tired, exhausted and felt overall miserable. But she couldn't find any rest.
"Does she know anything?" Rarity sobbed out while pointing to the sleeping unicorn on the other side of the room.
"I don't know yet, she is getting released today. I’ll ask her then" Twilight responded "I'll head home for now, I need to figure this out as fast as I can."
"Just call me if there is anything I can help you with," Rarity requested
"I will" Twilight replied before leaving the hospital and heading home once again.
Immediately upon her homecoming Spike called for her. "Twilight, a letter arrived for you. I've put it on your desk," the little dragon screamed from the store room.
"Thank you," Twilight answered and walked into her room, closing the door when she entered.
She approached her desk and tried to unfold the scroll. "Strange, it is sealed with magic," she said to no one in particular. Celestia never sealed her letters with magic. Her horn glowed for a second and the scroll unfolded itself. A couple of sheets fell onto the ground; she picked them up and put them on her desk. Holding the letter in front of her now, she started reading it
===========================
It was nearly noon when Trixie finally woke up. She stretched herself and looked around; the only thing which caught her eye was the pegasus lying on the bed next to her. Even though she didn't knew the pony, it made her sad to see somepony in a condition like this.
She waited until a doctor came in to check on them.
"Oh good you are awake ... ehm Trixie, right?" the pony said as he pulled out a sheet of paper and a quill and started writing.
"So how are you feeling? Any complaints?"
"No, everything seems to be in order"
"Good" he said while writing more stuff on his paper.
"Looks like you are though, you are free to leave whenever you want," he said before walking next to Fluttershy. He ran some tests and checked the results of the gadgets she was wired on.
|
tyion
|
1019
| 5 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-10-08T18:54:55+00:00
|
2011-10-08T18:54:55+00:00
| 2,705 |
Trixie entered the main hall and walked towards the hospital secretary.
"I would like to check out" she told the secreta.The dark blue pegasus pony gestured her to wait. Trixie was starting to get impatient but didn't say anything.
After a couple of minutes the pegasus let out a sigh and lifted her head up
"What were you asking again?"
"I want to check out" Trixie answered with the slightest bit of anger in her voice.
"Certainly, you just need to sign here" the pegasus held up a sheet of paper.
Trixie flew over it real quick
"That's it?" she asked while signing it.
"Yep, that's it" the secretary responded
"I don't need to pay anything?"
The pegasus gave her a confused look "The white unicorn that brought you and your other two friends paid for everything in beforehand" she replied before continuing her work.
"Is that so..." Trixie murmured to herself while walking outside.
"That unicorn paid for everything?" she thought while heading to the local library.
=====
Spike let out a groan when he was finally finished with clearing up all the books Twilight had used to search a spell for Fluttershy. Satisfied with his work he made his way into the kitchen to start making dinner. Twilight hadn't come out of her room since she arrived, but that was nothing unusual for her. Once she sets something in her mind that girl wouldn't stop until she finds what she was searching for. He poured some water into a pan and added some celery's; he exhaled a little bit of his fire to make it boil. "Celery soup" he thought "that was Twilight's favourite, it will lighten up her mood for sure!" It was not much, but it was all the dragon could do currently for her. He started to make the table ready for dinner, when the door suddenly rang. "Who could that be" he thought while opening up the front door.
"Trixie?" he said in disbelief.
Walking inside the library the unicorn asked "Does Trixie know you?"
"Yes you do! I'm one of Twilight's friends and we w-"
"Oh so you are a servant? Be a dear and prepare a hot bath for Trixie, will you?"
"What is that unicorn thinking? I'm not a servant! But she looks different from last time, without her cape and hat, not hiding her beautiful, gorgeous mane..." Spike started to get lost in his thoughts, similar to what happens when Rarity is around him. Before he realized what was going on he was already in the bathroom, making the bathtub ready as Trixie demanded.
After a short time Trixie trotted inside. "Where is Twilight, by the way?" Trixie asked him casually.
"She is studying some notes the princess sent her." Spike replied with a nervous grin.
"Is that so? Well then, Trixie awaits her dinner to be ready when she is finished with her bath." Trixie said before sinking into the hot water. Just before Spike left the bathroom Trixie´s voice was heard again "Oh, and could you scrub my back?" she asked him. She could use magic to do it, but she wanted to relax and not have to concentrate on scrubbing her own back.
Spike couldn't believe what he just heard. He took a deep breath before turning around. Picking up the scrubber he slowly approached Trixie.
'Ok calm down, ponies are always naked, this is nothing new for you, you always see them like this.' He thought to calm himself down. When he was right before the tub Trixie turned around, her back was now facing the small dragon. He held up the scrubber with both of his hands and wanted to start scrubbing when suddenly his nose began to bleed. "Waaah!" He screamed and ran out of the bathroom, leaving a confused Trixie behind.
"I guess he couldn't handle that much awesomeness," she said to nopony in particular.
Half an hour had passed before Trixie walked out of the bathroom, feeling much better than before. She stretched herself a bit before trotting to the main hall, where her dinner was already served. "Twilight found her a good servant," she thought while sitting down onto a chair and started sipping her soup.
Meanwhile, directly above Trixie, another unicorn desperately tried to figure out a spell.
"Why isn't this working" Twilight was losing her temper. She tried to get this spell right since hours, but it was no good. It was too difficult for her, but she had to. She promised it to Rarity. She had to get this spell right.
Twilight slowly got up on her hooves again, picking up a knife she cut her hoof slightly and drew a circle on the ground. She bowed down her head until her horn touched it. A burst of magic was send through her horn. She tried her best to contain it, but it was too unstable and the spell imploded right in front of her like so many times before.
"Damn it, damn it, damn it!" The unicorn was heavily panting now. She began to realize how exhausted she was. Closing her eyes she rested for a bit, or at least she tried. But then Dash's and Rarity's despairing expressions came into her mind. She slowly got on her hooves again, continuing to try what she had been trying for hours.
The moon was now starting to take over, and Spike was began to worry about Twilight. He made his way up to her room. "Twilight?" he called while opening the door to her room. The room was dark; the only source of light came from the moon which shined through the window. The whole ground was covered in circles drawn with a scarlet red liquid. The thick air made it difficult for him to breath and the merest scent of sweat was to be smelled.
Twilight was sitting in the middle of her room. She seemed miles away. Her eyes were empty; it was like she is looking right through Spike. The unicorn was also murmuring something but he was not able to understand what. "Twilight?" the dragon called again, but no answer was given; he doubted that she was even aware of his presence. Shocked, he slowly approached the purple pony. "Is everything alright?" he asked with an unsteady voice. Again Twilight didn't answer, nor did she acknowledge him. Spike was now really concerned about her "You wait here, I'll go and call help!" he exclaimed on his way out of the library.
Twilight however didn't even witness what had just happened. She was trapped inside of her own mind, not being aware of her surroundings anymore. A thousand thoughts drifted through her brain. What is she going to do now? Had she failed her friends? Did she even deserve any friends if she can't even cast a single spell to save one of them? She sat there thinking about what she is going to do know, without realizing how much time flew by.
===========
A couple of minutes passed in which the library was in a total silence. Suddenly the front door burst open.
"Where is she?" Dash asked while flying inside.
"In the upper floor inside of her room" Spike replied
Quickly dashing through the entrance hall, Dash arrived there in a matter of seconds. She hesitated for a brief moment before opening the door of Twilight's room. Her eyes dilated at the sight in front of her. "Twilight!" Dash screeched with a shaky voice. Like with Spike, Twilight did not respond or even acknowledged the pegasus.
Dash slowly approached her friend. She shook her slightly to snap her back into reality.
"Hey Twi, what happened?" Again no answer was given. She looked down and saw that the ground underneath Twilight was covered in a tiny sanguine pool and recognized a cut which Twilight had across her hoof. Dash raised the head of the unicorn until their eyes meet. She tried to shake her again, this time more rough. It seemed to work. Twilight slowly returned into reality, she looked around the room before gazing at the pegasus with her empty eyes.
"I can't do it, Dash" Twilight conceded and bowed her head again.
"What was that?" Dash asked
"I'm sorry I can't get this spell right, it's too difficult. Please don't hate me" Twilight replied while shredding a tear.
"Why would she think I hate her? Did I put her under so much pressure? Damn, I didn't want this....
"There is nothing to feel sorry about, Twilight. It's my fault for pressuring you that much" Dash apologized before she continued "You do not have to do everything yourself, just tell us if there is anything we can help you with"
"I don't think it works that way Dash. You can't help me with learning a spell" Twilight answered with a sad tone.
"I beg to differ" another voice from across the room claimed
"What do you mean?" Twilight asked, raising an eyebrow in confusion.
"I happen to know a spell which can combine the minds of various ponies. That way they can help you cast the spell" Trixie replied.
"Oh! That's wo-" Twilight's words were cut off.
"However, for the time you are linked your other friends cannot control how much of their energy they borrow you. Which means if you use too much of their energy it can have lethal consequences" Trixie said with a harsh voice.
With those words being sad, Trixie walked out of Twilight's room again. "It's your decision if you want to take use of this. Trixie will be ready to cast it on you and your friends whenever you are ready."
Twilight and Dash looked at each other, no one willing to say what their opinion on this change of events is. After a couple of minutes Dash broke the silence. "We should do it," she suggested with a confident voice.
"But- but what if I-"
"That's not going to happen Twilight. I'm 100- no, I'm 120% sure that you are going to pull it off without any flaws."
"... I don't know Dash."
"Then tell me, which unicorn was gifted enough to impress the Princess herself?"
"Me..."
"Right, and who was able to defeat an Ursa Minor?"
"Me..."
"And who spends an unhealthy amount of time studying these boring books?"
"That would b - HEY!"
They both shared a short giggle before Twilight nodded with confidence "Your right, I can do this!"
|
tyion
|
1019
| 6 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-11-07T08:35:21+00:00
|
2011-11-07T08:35:21+00:00
| 3,469 |
Dash was already awake before noon, which was some kind of a mirace. She usually slept until noon and proceeded to nap until afternoon, but not today. She had work to do.
After Twilight decided that she is going to take use of Trixie´s spell they agreed that Dash is going to ask their friends if they are okay with this while Twilight practices the spell together with Trixie.
Her first place to pass by was Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack was already bucking apples, in a faster pace than usual because winter was coming soon.
"Hey there AJ" Dash greeted the earth pony while landing in front of her
"Howdy ther´ Dash, what's up with ya bein awake aready?" Applejack asked while putting her saddlebags filled with apples on the ground.
"Well, as you know the princess wasn't able to cure Fluttershy."
"Aw, yea ..." Applejack said with a saddened voice
"However, Twilight found a spell which can save her. The problem is that it is too difficult for her to cast on her own, that's why she needs our help"
"Of cours` we all gonna help her, right?"
"If anything goes adrift in the process we may get severely hurt."
Applejack thought about this for a second but then replied "That's how things are. You can count on me nevertheless!"
"Oh great! I knew you wouldn't let us down, gotta go tell the others now. Just come by the library around dawn. Goodbye!!" Dash yelled while flying away.
Her next destination was Sugarcube Corners.
"Hey, Mrs. Cake, you happen to know where Pinkie is?" Dash asked while flying inside of the bakery store
"Oh hello Dash. I believe she is in her room."
"Ok, thanks," Dash replied while flying upstairs. Opening up the door to Pinkie's room, she trotted inside. "Pinkie?" She called out once she entered the messy room. It was decorated in various pink flairs. Streamers and balloons lying around everywhere.
"I'm here Dashie," a voice responded, and a pink pony approached Dash. "What's the matter?"
"Uhm... why is your hair straight?" Dash asked in confusion
"Oh never mind that..."
Dash felt like there is something wrong with Pinkie but she couldn't tell what "Mhm, okay. I dropped by to tell you that Twilight found a spell which may be able to save Fluttershy!"
"SHE DID?" Pinkies hair curled up at once. She got caught in her excitement and jumped onto Dash. "That's sooooooo wonderful, I was scared that we wont be able to do anything and than bad things would happen to her and we all would be sad and than we wouldn't be happy anymore because we would be sad and I don't like you guys being sad because that makes me sad and then I would be like double sad and ...-"
Dash closed Pinkies mouth with her hoof "I wasn't finished, we need to help her in order for the spell to succeed -" before she could continue Pinkie disrupted her once again.
"Of course we will help, what kind of friends would we be if we wouldn't? I mean if friends don't help friends they wouldn't be friends would they? And we are Fluttershy's friends so we obviously are going to help her because we-"
"PINKIE! Would you mind listening to me for a second?" Dash awaited any signs of protest, when there were none she continued. "If the spell does not succeed it could be that we will get injured, badly."
"Oh Dashie, that wont happen anyway!" she exclaimed joyfully
"How can you be so sure?"
"Because I know it will! I promise you everything will work out just fine."
Dash did not know how Pinkie could be so optimistic "But..." she tried to say something but got interrupted by Pinkie
"Fluttershy will be fine again, Pinkie Pie promise! Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye"
The pegasus looked at her friend is awe. "How can she be so sure?" she wondered. "I guess your right. Thank you Pinkie. I should go now-" Dash was interrupted by a loud growl.
"Seems like your hungry! Wanna eat something?" Pinkie giggled
Dash still had to ask Rarity if she would be ready to help, but they had time. Trixie and Twilight said that they won't be finished with the preparations until dawn. "Yea, sure, why not?"
With those words being said Pinkie bounced down the stairs and a couple of minutes later she returned with a tablet full of cupcakes. Each of them picked their favourite flavour and they started munching the delicious treats. "Why so glum, Dashie?" she asked while taking another bite out of the pastry.
"Oh its nothing" Dash replied and continued chewing on the cupcake, if only to hide her face.
"That does not sound like nothing! It sounds like something! Are you thinking about the whole thing with Shy?"
"Oh no - I mean yes, but not exactly."
"I think I know whats going on!"
"You do?" Dash said, nervously grinning
"Could it be that you like Fluttershy?" Pinkie asked with a smile.
"Ehm, uhm. Sure I do, I like all of you. I am the element of loyalty after all, so I'm loyal to my friends which means I have to... uhm like them? Yea... that sounds good"
"I mean like like-like" Pinkie teased Dash with a wide grin.
Dash started to blush and tried to think for an answer. Pinkie however saw how uncomfortable she made the Pegasus.
"Oh Dash, I'm just joking!" Pinkie said while pretending to laugh.
"Oh you are? Ahahaha - good one Pinkie you got me there," Dash replied with a nervous smile.
Around an hour passed where the two ponies just enjoyed each others company by eating, laughing and relating old stories.
"Well, thank you for the great time Pinkie, but I still have to talk to Rarity. Just drop by the library in an hour, we'll meet there." Dash stated while flapping her wings.
"Okie Dokie Lokie Dashie. See you there!"
Dash waved as she flew out of the window, flying towards the Carousel Boutique.
======
The Pegasus gently landed in front of Rarity's house and knocked. The door opened, but not by Rarity as Dash expected. It was Sweetie Belle. "Hey there, Sweetie Belle, was it? Do you know where your sister is?"
The small unicorn nodded "You missed her; she just left, but didn't tell me where she was heading"
"Oh okay thank you" Dash thanked Rarity's sister.
"Wait!" Sweetie Belle screamed a second before Dash dashed off. When the colourful pegasus turned back around to her she continued. "Do you know what's wrong with my sister? She seems so sad and I even heard her crying in her rooms sometimes," she asked, giving Dash a concerned look.
Dash thought about what she just heard for a second before giving an answer "Its nothing you have to worry about. I'll take care of your sister now and she will be her old self in no time!"
"Really? Thank you Ms. Dash!" Sweetie Belle joyfully exclaimed.
"No prob, kiddo," Dash said and flew away.
As soon as she was out of sight her expression abruptly changed "Rarity was crying?!" She couldn't believe it, Rarity never cried. This whole situation must be harder for her than she thought. "At least I know where she is heading," Dash thought and picked up more speed.
"Rarity!" Dash screamed at the sight of the white unicorn. Rarity turned around at the sound of her name and spotted the pegasus at once.
"Hello, Rainbow Dash," she greeted her.
"Hey there Rarity. Where are you heading?"
"Nowhere in particular..." Rarity replied with a saddened voice
"To the hospital again?" Dash asked. Rarity simply nodded, being on the verge of crying. "It's alright Rarity, everything is going to be fine." Earlier today she wouldn't have believed herself saying that, but Pinkie made the pegasus more optimistic about everything currently happening.
"Oh it is not alright, my dear. The situation is everything but alright," Rarity exclaimed with a bitter voice.
"I'm sorry, that's not how I meant it"
"No, no I'm sorry, I knew you didn't mean it like that. It's just that," Rarity's voice cracked "I'm so confused right now. I have no idea what I'm going to do if she won't recover. I will be lost. She was the only pony I could hang out with without wearying her."
Dash thought about what she could do to help the crying mare, but before she could react Rarity leaned her head onto Dash's shoulder and cried into it. Dash wrapped one of her hooves around her, trying to comfort her friend as good as she could.
Several minutes passed without any words between those two being exchanged. "Feeling better?" Dash asked once the unicorn finished crying.
"Yes, thank you Dash. I needed that," Rarity replied with a little smile on her face.
"No problem. You can count on me Rarity!"
"I guess I can. By the way, why were you searching me?" Rarity asked in curiosity
"Ohhh right that! Well it seems like Twilight found a spell which may be able to cure Fluttershy, but it's too difficult for her to cast it on her own. That's why she needs our help in order for the spell to succeed. However the spell is risky; if it fails everypony who helped casting it could be severely hurt, and I'm here to ask if we can count on you."
"What a stupid question, dear. Of course I will help. Consequences do not matter as long as she will be fine again." Rarity responded
"Well then, it's nearly dawn. We should start heading towards the library."
With those words being said the two ponies trotted to the library. Both of them hoping that everything will work out just fine...
|
tyion
|
1019
| 7 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-12-06T22:46:05+00:00
|
2011-12-06T22:46:05+00:00
| 2,421 |
The way to Twilight's house was followed by silence for the most part. Drawing closer to the library, they saw Pinkie and Applejack had already arrived and were waiting for them. As soon as Pinkie's eyes caught Rarity and Dash she started to wave frantically at the two ponies.
"At least one of us is in a good mood." Rarity snickered
"Yea that's our Pinkie" Dash giggled as well.
"Hey Rarity, hey Dashie" Pinkie said in the jubilant mannerism she was known for.
"Hello Pinkie Pie" Rarity greeted the pink pony with not even half the enthusiasm.
"Now then shall we get inside?" Dash asked the group; everypony responded with a determined nod, even Pinkie looked somewhat serious.
Dash nervously knocked at the door, unsure what is awaiting them.
"Come in, the door is open" a voice from inside demanded.
Dash pushed the door and trotted inside, the other three following her closely.
"Spike, bring our guests something to drink" Trixie commanded, and Spike, to the other ponies surprise, obeyed without moaning.
"Where is Twilight?" Applejack asked after they all sat down.
"She is currently busy preparing everything, for the time being I'll explain to you how this will be executed."
Meanwhile Spike was finished serving everypony with apple juice. He murmured something about being an assistant and not a slave but no one minded him.
Trixie made sure she had their undivided attention before she started to explain to them how it will be done.
"The first thing we need to do is get the pegasus over here. Dash, you will take care of that. We need to do everything as fast as possible because after Fluttershy has been unplugged from the respirator-"
"Wait I gotta remove her from that thing? Can she even survive without it?" Dash interrupted her in an outrage
"Yes, you have to, and no she won't, at least not for long. That's why we got to hurry up. Once you arrive here you will head to the basement and I'll instruct you further once your back here.
The two earth ponies and the unicorn will stay with me; I'll cast the spell on you while Dash is getting the patient." Trixie awaited any form of respond but it seemed everypony understood what they had to do.
"Ok then lets get started. Go get her Dash, we will be ready when you arrive back here,"
Dash gave them a reassuring nod before flying off.
"You three follow me," Trixie said as she walked down the stairs into the basement.
The dim light instantly assaulted their eyes; the damp and thick air made it a pain to breathe down here. The ground however was spotless, not a single item was lying there.
"Howdy there Twilight," Applejack greeted her friend
Twilight turned around and a small smile formed on her face at the sight of her friends. "Hey guys. Is Dash already on her way?" she asked them; they nodded as a response.
"That's why we should hurry up, I'll need you all to cut your hooves and provide a tiny amount of blood in order for the spell to work," Trixie announced with a dictating voice.
Everypony, except Twilight, was slightly confused. Rarity was the first one who levitated the knife which Trixie held and cut her hoof firmly.
"Now?" Rarity asked
"Draw a circle alongside the outlines on the ground as long as your blood lasts" Trixie answered, pointing at the contours of a circle approximately 10x10 inches big.
"You two do the same" she told Pinkie and Applejack and proceeded to cut her own hoof as well. Twilight did the same.
A couple of minutes passed before the entire circle was overdrawn with blood.
"Applejack you go to the top please. Pinkie you go to the right hoof left corner and Rarity you go to the top left hoof corner." Twilight exclaimed as she gestured where every single pony had to stand. After her three friends stood where they should, she moved to the bottom left and Trixie to the bottom right.
When everyone was in position Trixie spoke up "I will cast the spell on you now, it will combine our minds with Twilight's. She will lead us through the spell. It is important that you keep calm during the whole procedure."
With those words being said, the blue unicorn closed her eyes and her horn started to glow.
Several minutes passed without anything happening; suddenly Rarity felt a stinging pain in her head, but it faded as quickly as it came. "W..o..w" Rarity thought in awe after the spell had been cast on her, she could think as clearly as never before. Being linked with Twilight's mind, she had access to everything Twilight knew and thought, and that was a lot.
She knew that Twilight was smart but this amount of knowledge was sick. "Twilight is a genius" the white unicorn thought.
"Thanks..." a timid noise echoed inside of the white unicorn's mind.
Rarity let out a shocked scream before asking "You can hear what I'm thinking?"
"Well, duh, of course we can, that's what the spell does" Pinkies voice responded.
"I reckon we gotta wait for Dash know, don't we?"
============
Meanwhile Dash arrived at the hospital; she purposely flew rather slowly so she can save her energy for the way back. Flying around the building, she found the room where Fluttershy was lying, and opened up the window; it was not locked as expected.
She flew inside and stopped as she was standing right next to the unconscious pegasus. Raising her hoof she gripped the tube of the respirator,trying to pull it off, but she was not able to do it. "Come on Dash, just pull it off" she thought but couldn't bring herself to do it.
"She will die within three minutes" Trixie´s voice crossed her mind.
"That's what keeps her alive in the first place... I can't remove it," she conceded, but then she remembered what Pinkie told her. Dash gulped down her doubts and took a deep breath "3...2...1" she pulled the tube off as she finished her inner countdown. The sound of escaping air filled the room and put her into a trance for a short time. She snapped back into reality as she realized that Fluttershy`s time is running out. Placing the other pegasus on her back she dashed off. She flew in a speed where the air around her turned into whipping slashes. Even though Dash was feeling stinging pain all over her body she did not even think about slowing down. Her current situation reminded her of the last time she was carrying Fluttershy. It made her remember that she is to blame to begin with, if she would have looked for her earlier instead of her stupid, stupid training or if she would have at least flown faster all this wouldn't have happened "I cant fail her again" she thought and sped up even further.
Only a couple of seconds passed until Dash crashed into the library, flying down into the basement as fast as she could.
"Lay her into the middle of the circle," Twilight commanded. Dash put Fluttershy down and waited for further instructions. But Twilight was already busy casting the spell. Dash saw how everypony around her was concentrating on something, so she didn't interrupt or say anything.
Twilight leached more and more energy of her friends through the spell. Her horn was glowing in a light so bright it was impossible to look at it without being blinded. Still it was not enough in order for the spell to work.
"Twilight you have to cast it now, your friends are on the edge of their power," Trixie´s voice resounded in her mind, but Twilight did not listen. She just needed a bit more. Twilight was hearing various voices in her head wailing in agony. She concluded that she had to stop now, even though it wasn't enough to cast the spell. That's why Twilight did the only thing that came to her mind right now.
The whole room got consumed in a blending light for a brief moment. After it faded, Dash looked around the room. Everypony was lying on the ground heavily panting, but they seemed fine, exhausted yet healthy.
"Did it work?" Dash asked. Twilight slowly got on her hooves, she waited a couple of seconds for her breathing to normalize before she exclaimed
"We did not have enough energy to cast the spell." Everypony was shocked "All this for nothing? We couldn't heal her?" Rarity thought before Twilight spoke up once again "However I managed to split up the spell. I healed her lethal injuries, but I couldn't remove the poison from the blood. Not right now at least. I used the remaining energy to cast a regeneration spell on her." She pointed at a mark Fluttershy had above her regular cutie mark; it looked similar to Twilight's. "That's where our energy is sealed in, it will remove the poison and every damage it did on the organs"
"So Shy-Shy is going to be allrighty again?"
"Yep, she should be fine in a week or two" Twilight answered Pinkie's question with a smile on her face.
Those words removed every bit of tension which was in the room just moments ago. Pinkie started to scream and jump around in joy, even though she was as tired as everypony else.
Rarity let out a long sigh before letting herself fall onto the ground in exhaustion. "What a relief" she thought with a smirk on her lips
Dash took awhile to realize what was going on. "Fluttershy is safe" she thought "Thinking that feels so good"
"She is save" Dash murmured to herself.
"She is save!" Dash was yelling now, everypony looked at her as if something was wrong with the pegasus. Then Dash started to laugh, frantically. Pinkie joined the laughter and soon all of them did. Even Trixie had a smile on her face.
========
The next morning Pinkie was the first one to wake up. She stretched herself as she was looking around the room. They all stood at Twilight's house for the night, all being too tired to go home. Fluttershy was unconsciously lying on the couch while everypony else was sleeping on the ground all over the room with nothing but a blanket to cover themselves.
Pinkie got on her hooves and trotted into the bathroom, quickly washing her face. She figured that her friends will be hungry once they wake up, not to speak of her own hunger.
Leaving the library, the warm and bright sun shone upon her. It was a gorgeous day. Birds were singing their melodies, Bees were humming and not a single cloud was to be seen in the sky. Pinkie just stood there for a moment, letting the comforting sunlight embrace her, before she continued bouncing towards Sugarcube Corners.
Upon entering the Bakery, she was instantly greeted by Mrs. Cake. She waved back at her while taking out a tablet of Cupcakes and stuffing them into a bag. "I'll pay later, promise!" she yelled while leaving, bouncing back towards the library.
Arriving back at Twilights house, she saw that everypony was already awake. Rarity was arguing with Applejack and Dash about something and Twilight silently slipped on a mug filled with coffee, her mane was a disaster and she had bags under her annoyed looking eyes. "Definitely not a morning Pony," Pinkie thought.
"Hey everypony, I bought us some cupcakes to munch on!" she announced while putting the bag on the tablet.
"Sweetheart, you can't just eat cupcakes for breakfast."
"Why not?" Pinkie asked, staring at Rarity with her huge blue eyes.
"Because..." Rarity wanted to continue but she knew that it would do no good anyway. "Never mind," she said and moved next to the tablet, picking up a single cupcake with her magic. The others did the same.
Unlike the last couple of days, the room was filled with laughter and happiness. It was about time that they all were in a good mood.
=======
"And then Big Mac said *that ain't my apples*," Applejack finished her joke, trying to contain her laughter. The group all shared a giggle.
"um. Could I have a cupcake too, please?"
"Where is Trixie actually?" Dash asked Twilight.
"She claimed my bed last night, didn't see her since," Twilight replied while letting out yet another yawn
"Did you guys hear that?" Rarity asked, her friends replied by shaking their heads. "It sounded almost like..." With those words being sad, Rarity turned around, so did everypony else.
They all froze at the sight of Fluttershy. She was lying there, awake, her eyes were open. Suddenly Pinkie jumped on her, flipping over the couch and hugging her tightly.
"Shy! You are awake, HURRAAAY!" Pinkie joyfully exclaimed.
"Oww, Pinkie that hurts," Fluttershy squeaked out.
"Oopsie! Got caught up in excitement" Pinkie apologized with a smile.
"Umm that's okay" Fluttershy responded in her usual silent voice. She slowly got up on her hooves and saw how everypony stared at her with bulky eyes. "Did I do something wrong?" Fluttershy asked, avoiding any eye contact.
"You silly, silly, silly Pony" Rarity said while approaching the pegasus. "Don't you ever dare to scare me like that again" Rarity said, standing right in front of Fluttershy now.
"I'm sorry..."
Rarity shook her head "There is nothing to be sorry about" she gave the pegasus a gentle hug "Just be more careful please. I was so scared of loosing you"
Fluttershy nodded before returning the hug.
"Glad to have ya back, sugarcube" Applejack said to Fluttershy while lowering her hat.
"Hey Fluttershy"
"Mh?" the yellow pegasus replied, turning her head towards Dash.
"Ehm..." she began, but then hesitated for a second."You should be more careful" she finished with a blush on her face.
Rarity let out a loud sigh in disappointment.
"Indeed we are all glad that you are on your hooves again, are you feeling any pain?" Twilight broke the silence
"Oh no. I'm fine"
"Are you sure?"
"Well, um, my head hurts and it's hard to stand on my hooves and I feel drained out of my energy, oh and also I'm starving." Fluttershy answered in a single breath.
"Then you should better sit down and eat something," Rarity suggested, flipping the couch back into its original position and gesturing Fluttershy to sit down.
After the pegasus did what she was recommended to, Rarity picked up a cupcake with her magic and levitated it next to Fluttershy.
"Um I think I can do that myself. If that's fine with you," the timid pony said and picked up the cupcake flying in front of her with one of her hooves.
"Certainly, dear. But do not hesitate to ask for any sort of help"
=====
Several minutes passed in silence, until Applejack stood up.
"Well Ah´ma have a lot of work to do, but Ah will be sure to drop by if Ah get the chance to." With those words, she waved everypony goodbye and left the library.
The only sound to be heard now was the chewing of Fluttershy and Pinkie. Dash looked around the room in boredom and saw Rarity gazing at her with an intimidating expression. Dash avoided eye contact with her but it was still bothersome.
"What?" she finally asked
"Oh nothing dear" Rarity simply responded, yet proceeding to stare at her.
A couple of seconds passed
"What is it?" she asked again, this time with a tad of anger in her voice.
"Nothing, unless you know its something" Rarity replied, finally freeing Dash from her piercing gaze.
But the damage was already done. Dash knew what she meant, and she was feeling awful not confessing to Fluttershy. She couldn't do it, not now at least.
"Waah, I'm stuffed" Pinkie announced, tapping her tummy with one hoof.
"About time you are" Dash murmured to nopony in particular.
"What was that, Dashie?"
"Oh nothing, nothing at all," Dash lied with a nervous smirk on her face.
Pinkies expression suddenly turned serious. She started at Dash with half closed eyelids, but it faded as quickly as it came. "Okie Dokie" she said in her usual, high pitched voice.
"Hey Twilight what time is it, by the way?" Pinkie suddenly changed the topic
"Its half past t-" the purple unicorn said before getting interrupted
"Oh that late already? Come Dash we gotta go!" she exclaimed, grabbing Dash with one hoof and dragging her towards the library.
"Wait, what? Why? Where?" Dash asked in confusion
"Uhm.... Making Cupcakes!"
"Pinkie we just ate tons of cupcakes, and besides, I'm a horrible baker. Remember the last time?" Dash protested
Pinkie thought about that for a while, but didn't let go of Dash.
"I'll only need you to be there, I'll be doing most of the work. Now come oooon"
Before Dash could protest further, Pinkie carried her out of the library, closing the door behind her.
"Did anypony just get what happened?" Twilight asked, raising an eyebrow. The other two ponies shook their head.
"However, how about we take a hot bath at the spa together, Fluttershy?" Rarity suggested
Before Fluttershy could answer though, Twilight intruded
"Sorry can't allow that. Fluttershy has to rest and the spa is too far away for her. You can use my tub if you want to"
"But yours is soooo small," Rarity complained
"You and your First Equestria problems," Twilight sighed.
"I guess we have no choice. Come along Fluttershy."
"Mhm ok" the timid pegasus simply replied and followed the white unicorn.
Twilight allowed herself a smile. She had done well with this spell, and seeing Fluttershy awake and moving around a little made her feel great. Yet something bothered her. She felt like something was going to happen to disturb their peace, it was a similar feeling she had when this whole Mare in the Moon event took place. Twilight shook her head to banish these thoughts, and trotted into her room.
|
tyion
|
1019
| 8 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-10-13T00:13:08+00:00
|
2011-10-13T00:13:08+00:00
| 2,907 |
"All right Pinkie, you left me clueless long enough. Why do you need me?" Dash asked in an annoyed tone.
"To bake! That's what I told you!" Pinkie simply replied without bothering to look back at the pegasus she was currently dragging behind her.
"Since when do you need help baking?"
"Oh Dashie, you really think I'm that stupid?"
"No, you're not stupid, you're just," she hesitated for a second to think of an appropriate word, "weird"
"Whatever. You see, I saw how uncomfortable you are around Fluttershy since she woke up. So I assume that you wanna confess to her," Pinkie said the following while twinkling with one of her eyes, "whatever you want to confess her"
Dash thought about what Pinkie just said, and it made quite a lot of sense. She concluded that Pinkie was kind of right.
"I could really use a hoof with all that emotional stuff, but how is baking going to help me?"
"Well, duh, isn't it obvious? What says 'I like you' more than a hoof-made cake?"
"That's a stupid idea, Pinkie!"
"Oh, you have a better one?" Pinkie asked in a sarcastic tone.
Dash took a long breath, preparing to answer Pinkies question, but nothing came to her mind.
"Fine," she conceded
"To the bakery then!" Pinkie joyfully announced.
=============
In the meantime Fluttershy and Rarity were back in the living room of Twilight's house. The bath they took wasn't exactly what Rarity would call luxurious but as long as they could spend time together, she was happy.
Rarity was drying Fluttershy's mane, when the pegasus began to speak up.
"Rarity?"
"Yes, sweety?" the white unicorn replied casually.
"Did you guys worry about me?"
"Well of course we all were worried sick!"
"Everypony?" she stammered
"Yes, no exceptions"
"Okay," Fluttershy silently replied
"Why are you asking?" Rarity asked her
"But promise not to tell anypony"
"Pinkie Pie swear!" Rarity promised with a smile
"I think Dash might hate me," the yellow pegasus sobbed out
"Why ever would you think that, darling?"
"She always has to save me because I'm too weak to accomplish anything on my own. I'm just a burden to her," Fluttershy responded with an unsteady voice.
"You really are oblivious, aren't you? She does not hate you, dear." Rarity assured her friend with an comforting smile. "She does the opposite," Rarity added under her breath.
"Thank you, Rarity. I hope your right"
======
"Hey Dashie?" Pinkie panted out while lying on the ground of the bakery.
"Yea?" Dash was lying next to the pink pony, also pumped out.
"Did you get even worse at this?" Pinkie asked while inspecting the room around
her. The kitchen was a single mess. The walls were full of flour, the ground was filled with dough and the two ponies were covered in cream and chocolate chips.
"Seems like it," Dash replied while standing up. "Why do I have to bake it anyway? Can you just make me one?"
"That wouldn't work, Dashie! You have to do it in order for it to come from your
heart."
"No one has to know that you make it; it wont make a difference" Dash tried to
argue with her.
"It will! Now get back to work!" Pinkie commanded
"But....ugh, fine," she let out a sigh and made her way back towards the oven.
======================
Unfortunately, Dash had the unique ability to screw up every single baking attempt, even though Pinkie gave her step-by-step instructions.The moon was already starting to take over, when Dash gave it a last try before calling it a day.
"Ok, now swirl the bowl slowly" Pinkie instructed, pronouncing the last word
purposely louder.
"Ok," Dash simply replied, forcing every bit of concentration she could spare into
her hooves, which were holding a mixer. Dash started to slowly mix the bowl which contained the ingredients.
"So far so good. Stop now and put it in the oven!" Pinkie commanded.
After Dash successfully did was she was told to, Pinkie suddenly screamed out in joy. "You did it! Finally! I knew you could do it, sooner or later!"
"Yea about time" Dash said and let out a yawn which made her realize how tired she actually was. It was nearly night and it had been quite a long day. Pinkie let out a yawn as well, indicating that she was ready to call it a day too.
"Lets get this cleaned up, Pinkie" Dash suggested, Pinkie nodded and began to
sing some random strophes of what sounded like a cleaning up song. Dash was annoyed by it at first, but soon found herself humming along the catchy tune. The kitchen was cleared up in no time and the cake was baked.
"Okie Dokie, were finished!" Pinkie announced in her usual, jubilant voice.
"You wanna stay at my place for the night? We can have so much fun. We could stay awake, watch horror movies, tell stories, play games..."
The colourful pegasus learned to shut down whenever Pinkie started her talking marathon; she was able to speak throughout hours without needing to catch her breath.
"...and then we can go to Twilight's house together tomorrow. There you can talk to Fluttershy and gave her the cake you made"
Dash gulped when she heard the last sentence. "Do I really need to do that? Everything is working just fine right now. Why risk anything?" Dash asked, unsure what she should do.
"Dashie, of course you have to! Locking up your feelings can lead to bad things, and we don't want these bad things to happen!" Pinkie replied.
The pegasus nodded. She was right. Even though Pinkie might seem a little crazy sometimes, she is smarter than most of the ponies thought.
They both made their way up to Pinkies room. Dash loved it there. It was decorated in various varieties of pink, balloons and streamers lying around everywhere. The room was messy, yet charming in its own way.
Trotting inside, Dash was instantly greeted by Gummy, who bit into her tail; fortunately the little alligator did not posses any teeth.
Pinkie immediately jumped onto her bed, lying down for a bit she turned around to face Dash.
"So, you have any Idea how you're gonna tell her?" Pinkie asked
"Uhm I thought I just have to give her the cake," Dash replied, slightly confused at the question
"It's not that easy, silly! You also have to tell her,"
"That too?" She let out a sigh in frustration.
"And, what are you gonna say?"
"No idea, I'll just think of something tomorrow," Dash replied with a shrug
"No, no, no. You gotta plan things like this in advance. I'll help you!" Pinkie exclaimed, clapping her hooves together in anticipation.
"How are you going to help me?"
"We will just act like I'm Dash and your Fluttershy," Pinkie suggested.
"I don't think that would help, besides wouldn't make more sense if I would be Dash?"
"Why is that?" Pinkie asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Maybe because I am Dash?"
"Oh yea... Whatever! You're Dash and I'm Fluttershy now! Go ahead confess your love to me."
Dash wanted to protest but she knew that Pinkie probably wouldn't give up until she got her will anyway. So she decided to play along.
"Fluttershy, I gotta tell you something" Dash started
"What is it, my love?" Pinkie said, doing a horrible job at imitating Fluttershy's voice.
"That won't work Pinkie" Dash concluded as she rubbed her head with one of her hooves. "Let's just get some sleep and I'll think of something to say when the time is due." Dash said while letting herself fall onto the mattress next to Pinkies bed
"But..." Pinkie tried to reason with her friend
"No buts, Pinkie. Let's get some rest. G'night."
"G'night," Pinkie replied with the slightest bit of disappointment in her voice.
====
Over at the library, Rarity and Fluttershy were about to call it a day as well, when suddenly Twilight's voice was to be heard.
"You sure you want to leave already?"
"Yes, Trixie is sure. There is nothing to do for me here," Trixie explained while heading towards the door.
"You could just settle down somewhere in Ponyville," Twilight suggested
"I'm afraid that's nothing for Trixie; she is a showmare, and Trixie just can't
settle down anywhere for long. Besides she couldn't disappoint her loyal fans out there, could she?" Trixie stated with a smirk
"No, of course not," Twilight snickered
"Trixie appreciates your offer of friendship, though. But she must decline; this whole friendship thing seems to be nothing for her, but we can be companions if you like," Trixie offered
"Yes, I'd love that," the purple unicorn said with a smile on her lips.
Trixie then turned around to face the other unicorn in the room "Oh and Rarity, was it? I'll pay you the money back as soon as I can," Trixie added
Rarity seemed confused. "What money?"
"The money you paid for the stay in the hospital," Trixie replied.
"Oh, never mind that, my Dear. See it as a thanks for helping to cure my friend here," Rarity said while rubbing Fluttershy's head with one hoof.
"If you say so. Well then, Trixie is gone now!" she stated before disappearing in a huge cloud of smoke. When the smoke vanished, Trixie was no longer present.
"Rather dramatic," Rarity commented the situation with a grin. Twilight and Flutershy giggled.
"However, I will get going, too. I would love to stay, but I do not know what Sweetie Belle is capable of when she is alone, and I'm not eager to find out. I will visit again tomorrow."
"Bye, Rarity," Fluttershy said her goodbye.
"Yea, see you tomorrow" Twilight added.
Rarity pushed the front door open, waving one last goodbye before closing the door behind her.
"You want to go to sleep, too Fluttershy?" Twilight asked once they were alone.
"Mhm" the yellow pegasus nodded
"Ok, then go up to my room and lay down there."
"I couldn't do that," Fluttershy stated, feeling uncomfortable with scrounging from Twilight.
"Oh that wasn't a suggestion. I insist on you sleeping in something more convenient then this old couch," Twilight commanded
"But where will you sleep?" Fluttershy wondered
"Don't you worry about me. I probably wont sleep at all, I have a lot of research to do," Twilight explained while levitating a few books down from the shelves.
"Uhm...okay. Goodnight Twilight," Fluttershy said before flying upstairs.
It was quite a feat for her to lift herself up the ground with her wings. She was still feeling pretty weak, finding herself out of breath upon arriving in Twilight's room. It looked rather chaotic, with loose sheets and books lying around. Fluttershy didn't mind her surroundings and jumped straight into Twilight's bed. Her tensed muscles immediately relaxed once they hit the fluffy surface of the mattress. It was comfortable, even though she preferred her own bed, but she understood that circumstances forced her to stay here.
Fluttershy was tired, but her mind didn't allow her to drift into sleep that easily. She was bothered by one question which flew around in her mind.
"Did Dash hate her?" She couldn't banish these thoughts, they kept coming back.
Fluttershy already found herself thinking like this even before the recent events took place. But especially now it was hard to not see herself as a burden for the rainbow maned pegasus. She really hoped that she was just drawing unfounded conclusions, but it was quite obvious that Dash acted dismissively towards her.
Fluttershy concluded that she had to ask the other pegasus in order to receive clarification about the feelings Dash felt for her.
It wasn't long until Fluttershy fell asleep together with these thoughts.
====
In the meantime Twilight was busy researching. She couldn't get rid of this awkward feeling as if something horrible was about to happen. It must have to do something with the spell they casted. "Why wouldn't the princess approve of these spells if they can actually save lives?" Twilight thought. "There must be some kind of consequence."
She read through dozens of books already but did not find the tiniest bit of information regarding this spell. The only thing containing knowledge about this very spell were the sheets Luna sent her
Yet, she couldn't give up. The creepy feeling she had was surely not baseless. Twilight continued digging through hundreds of books, eager to find out more.
====
Dash let out a long yawn as she got on her hooves. Having a bad case of bedmane and a dry taste to her mouth, she headed to the bathroom. The pegasus quickly washed her face, but didn't bother fixing her mane. As she trotted back into the room, Pinkie, who was also awake now, was stretching herself. Dash mindlessly observed the room around her, when her eyes suddenly realized that the sun did not rise yet.
"Hey Pinkie, how late is it?" she asked, not looking away from the sky.
"Its half past ten, why?"
Dash didn't even bother to ask why she knew the exact time, but simply pointed at the window "The sun is still not up."
"Oh, that's strange! Well, I bet Celestia just overslept the sunrise."
"But she was never more than a minute to late to raise the sun, not to speak of an entire hour"
"There is always a first time for everything, isn't there?"
"I guess you're right," Dash agreed, still feeling uncomfortable about the situation
"Then lets eat something and get over to Twilight's place!" Pinkie exclaimed and bounced down the stairs
"This is gonna be some day," Dash muttered to nopony in particular.
=====
Twilight was also wondering why the sun didn't rise yet. First she couldn't find any information about the spell and now a not risen sun? It was not like Celestia to be late or not to inform everypony about what is going on. "Could this have anything to do with each other?" A shiver ran down Twilight's spine as the thought crossed her mind. "It couldn't be, could it?"
While Twilight was desperately trying to disprove this, a flashing sound was to be heard.
"Hello, my faithful Student" a calm, yet cold voice greeted her.
"Pri-Princess Celestia?" Twilight said in disbelief.
====
Dash was already finished eating and headed towards the library, together with her cake in one of her hooves. Pinkie stood behind and told her to follow up later. She was flying at a relative slow pace, still thinking of how she is going to tell Fluttershy about her feelings.
====
"Why are you here? Why is the sun not risen yet? Did anything happen?" Twilight bombarded the princess with questions, but she just shook her head.
"Nothing happened, not yet. The sun is not raised because I have work to do here."
Twilight let out a sigh of relief. "Why didnt you tell Luna to raise it for you then?" she wondered
"I was afraid that if she knows what I am up to she would try to dissuade me from it" Celestia replied dryly
"What, what do you mean?" Twilight asked, afraid of what answer she might receive.
"Twilight, you made a horrible mistake." the princess stated, her voice filled with no emotions.
The purple Unicorn was shocked, she couldn't think of anything to say.
"You should've never cast that spell." Celestia continued.
"I had to; I had to save her, somehow! I can't let any of my friends die, I just cant!" Twilight stammered; tears were streaming down her cheeks.
The princess slowly trotted towards her student, embracing her with her wings. Twilight looked up to her with the puffy, red eyes she had.
"It is okay, Twilight. I understand why you did it. I am not mad at you," the princess assured, comforting Twilight with her warm and understanding voice.
"I will take care of everything now" Celestia added, releasing her student from the embrace.
Twilight's brain took a second to process what her teacher just said. "Take care of things?" she thought.
"Take care of what?"
"I will remove every effect the spell had to this world."
"Does that mean... You can't do that!" Twilight's voice was filled with despair.
"Please don't make this any harder for me than it already is." Celestia replied with a sad, yet ambitious tone.
"But why?"
"Because she is not meant to be alive; the spell you used is forbidden because it draws its energy from another world. It can change the fate of Equestria if we disturb the natural flow of things."
"What was Celestia talking about? Did she really want to let Fluttershy die? IT can't be. Celestia won't do something like that."
The princess started trotting towards the stairs which led to Twilight's room. Her student however did not realize what was happening. She was not aware of what was going on. Her brain simply couldn't understand why Celestia would do such a thing. Then Twilight took a glimpse at Dash. The pegasus was flying right in front of the window. It seemed like she was there for a longer period of time, her jaw was hanging wide open and her eyes gazed at Twilight in disbelief. That was when Twilight snapped back into reality.
"What was she doing?" She couldn't let any of her friends die. Even if it means to stand in the way of her beloved teacher. Without hesitating another second, Twilight's horn began to glow. She did not know what she should do, obviously not standing a change against the princess, but Twilight just couldn't let her take Fluttershy away either. Twilight thought about a spell which would prove useful right now, when one came her mind she turned around and screamed "Dash! Go get Fluttershy from my room and FLY AWAY!" before channelling the spell.
Dash took a second to get what was happening, she didn't know what was going on exactly, but Fluttershy seemed to be in trouble. Dropping everything, she did as she was told to and dashed through the main hall into Twilight's room. She placed the sleeping pegasus on her back and crashed through the window, flying away as fast as she could.
Meanwhile Twilight's spell held the princess in place; the spell created roots which wrapped themselves around the hooves of Celestia. The sun goddess was not surprised that her student showed that kind of resistance, to the contrary, she presumed that something like this was about to happen. Somewhere she even felt pride that Twilight was ready to stand up against her just for the sake of her friends. Turning around, she faced the unicorn. Her eyes were still wet from the tears she was shredding.
"This won't stop me" the princess muttered, part of her wishing that Twilight would be able to actually do so. Her horn glowed for a second and the roots burned down.
The princess closed her eyes and her horn glowed once again. Without looking back at her student, she disappeared.
Once her teacher was no longer present Twilight broke down into tears. She couldn't believe what had just happened.
======
Dash was still flying as fast as she could. Not knowing where she was, she allowed herself to slow down a little bit. She scanned the area beneath her and saw the outlines of what seemed to be a cave in the distance. She figured that they would be hidden well inside there. Dash started to fly towards the cave, when a silent voice caught her by surprise and nearly caused her to drop Fluttershy from her back.
"Puh, that was close," she murmured to nopony in particular.
"Uhm, Dash were are we?" a timid voice asked.
"I don't know."
"Why aren't we at Twilight's place?"
"I don't know." Dash lied, not wanting the pegasus to worry anymore than necessary.
Fluttershy figured that Dash was just as clueless as she was and stopped asking her anymore questions
"Can you fly on your own?"
"Uhm... I think so" Fluttershy knew that she couldn't, but she was sick of getting carried around. She started to flap her wings, slowly lifting herself up.
"You sure that you're fine?" Dash asked.
"Yeah..."
After a short time Fluttershy was already out of breath. Every single wing beat caused a stinging pain in her muscles, but she tried hard to cover it from Dash. A couple of minutes passed like this, when suddenly Fluttershy wings stopped moving.
"Oh no," she thought, trying to move her wings, but her body refused to obey. Luckily Dash was there in time to catch her.
"You should've told me that it still hurts," Dash said, not sounding angry but rather concerned about her.
"I'm sorry, that you always have to take care of me Dash," Fluttershy apologized with a sad voice.
"Well, there is nopony I would rather take care of."
Fluttershy blushed when Dash was smiling at her.
Several minutes later they arrived at the cave. Dash felt a little uncomfortable when she thought about what happened the last time they were in a cave, but she dismissed her concerns with a shake of her head.
Now that they were relatively save, Dash tried to recover what was happening.
She wanted to visit the library when she overhead a conversation between Twilight and Celestia, also the word "die" dropped at least once. Together with the fact that Twilight was crying and had commanded her to get Fluttershy away from Celestia there was just one resolution. "Celestia is in someway dangerous to Fluttershy," Dash concluded.
"Dash cant we go back to Ponyville?"
"No, not now. We have to wait here until Twilight explains what-" Before Dash could finish a flashing noise disrupted her.
"Celestia?" Fluttershy said in disbelief.
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tyion
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1019
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Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
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A rainbows burden
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Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
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complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
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everyone
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2011-10-17T13:29:29+00:00
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2011-10-17T13:29:29+00:00
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Immediately Dash ran in between the princess and Fluttershy
"Don't you dare to touch her!" Dash admonished
"I have to do this, Rainbow Dash. Its not like I have a choice" Celestia said as she slowly approached Fluttershy.
"What is happening?" Fluttershy asked, but no answer was given
"No, no, no, no" Dash thought "She can't take her away from me! She has no right to do that!"
"She won't feel any pain, I promise"
"I don't care! I can't take it, I nearly lost her once. I can't go through that again! The hell! I didn't even tell her how much she means to me."
"What?" the timid pegasus asked, confused about what was going on.
Dash turned around, her wet eyes met with those from Fluttershy. "I love you Fluttershy! I should've told you earlier but I was too scared!" She turned back around to the princess.
"What was that?" Fluttershy thought. "Dash loves me?"
"Please, I beg you, not threatening you," Dash fell on her knees and her voice cracked "Don't take her away from me."
"I'm sorry," were the only words the princess said before her horn started to glow; a single tear escaped her emotionless expression.
"NO!" Dash screamed, before her eyes got blended by a flashing light. When she was able to open them again, she saw princess Luna standing in front of her. The moon goddess turned around to face Fluttershy, who was watching in awe. Her horn started to glow for a second before Fluttershy vanished.
“Where is Fluttershy?” Dash asked.
“She is safe, for now. You go find a way to stop this madness.”
“Sister, you know I have no choice. Equestria’s well being comes first.”
“I know that. But I simply cannot watch you let a pony, who has done so much for us, die.” Luna tried to reason with her big sister.
While the two royal sisters were arguing, Dash burst off towards Ponyville. Celestia watched her pass by, but did no effort in trying to stop her. She let out a sigh; she just wanted to get this horrible act behind her. As if she didn't knew how cruel she is acting, but it was all for the welfare of Equestria.
====
In the meantime Pinkie, Rarity, and Applejack were present at the library, trying to comfort Twilight. The purple unicorn did not say a single word since Celestia left; she was too shocked about what had happened. Her own mentor, her Idol tried to kill one of her friends. She was torn between her loyalties; should she try to stop Celestia, who was like a mother to her? It was all so confusing.
Suddenly there was a crashing noise to be heard. Dash slowly got up on her hooves and wiped away the dust which she had gathered with her landing.
“Darling, what happened? Where is Fluttershy?” Rarity asked as soon as her eyes saw the rainbow maned pegasus.
“Luna helped me to hide her. She is safe for now, but Celestia is dead serious about removing the spell we casted on her. We have to do something,” Dash explained to the group with an ambitious voice.
“But what can we do?” Applejack wondered.
Several seconds passed in total silence; everypony was thinking for an solution.
“Well we could use the Elements,” Rarity suggested.
“Are ya outta yer mind? Using the Elements against the princess herself?” Applejack couldn’t believe what she just heard.
“Yep, we should” Pinkie agreed, after not being able to think of any other possibility.
“I think Rarity is right, Applejack. The princess will not rest until she annulled every effect the spell had. Its either her or Fluttershy” Dash also approved of Rarity’s idea.
“You guys sure are crazy, but for Fluttershy I’d do about anythin,” Applejack conceded.
Everypony turned around to Twilight to see what she thinks about using the Elements. They all knew that the princess and her were really close since Twilight was a filly, but desperate times called for desperate measures.
“Twilight?” Applejack called out, but the unicorn did not respond.
Twilight was too confused to say anything; everything happened so fast that she still needed to process what was actually going on.
"Twilight?" Rarity tried this time, the purple unicorn looked up to face her.
"What do you think we should do?" the white unicorn asked; she somehow felt that the Elements were the only way out of this, but would Twilight use them against her own teacher?
"I don't know. I simply don't" Twilight admitted; for the first time she was absolutely clueless. Usually she would just look up in a book what she should do or write a letter to the princess. But now she had to make a decision on her own.
"You think you are able to use the Elements against...?" Dash inquired, but before she could finish her sentence Twilight’s answer interrupted her.
"I don’t know! That’s what I told you... I have to save Fluttershy but... but..." Twilight’s stomach twisted when she just thought about the idea of using the Elements against the princess.
"You have to decide fast!" Dash stated.
"DASH!" Rarity admonished her before continuing. "I know that time is running out, but for the time being Fluttershy is safe. Let Twilight decide for herself what she will do. Come along everypony, leave her alone," Rarity commanded.
"But..." Dash tried to reason with Rarity. The pegasus was growing more impatient by the minute; they had to act immediately or it might be too late for Fluttershy.
"No but!"
Dash wanted to protest, but she saw how serious the white unicorn was and obeyed.
Once they all were outside Pinkie suggested to get their Elements while they were waiting for Twilight to decide. Everypony agreed and trotted home to get their necklaces.
Twilight was now alone; without a single sound which could be heard, she had all the concentration she needed present. She desperately tried to resolve her inner struggle; from a logical point of view everything was clear: The princess is far more important for Equestria then her friend. Still, she couldn’t even bear to think of letting any of her friends die. She was torn between her loyalties. Would she betray them if she isn’t agreeing to use the Elements against Celestia? Would Celestia ever forgive her if she did?
Twilight couldn’t answer any of the questions which flew around in her head. She stood up, moving to her desk she picked up a scroll and a quill, beginning to write.
"Dear princess Cele-" She stopped right there, dropping both the quill and the scroll "What are you doing Twilight?" she thought. "You cant even think straight anymore, can you?"
Indeed she could not, not right now. Her head was in immense pain from all the thinking; she just wanted to go to sleep and forget about everything. She smirked when she thought about how everything will be alright again if she wakes up now. Closing her eyes for a moment and breathing in... "Seems like its not a dream." She concluded.
While Twilight was still lost in the depths of her mind, Celestia materialized right in front of her.
"Twilight, where is the Element of Kindness" she asked with a forcing voice.
The purple unicorn slowly turned around; she wasn’t surprised to see the princess; she somehow felt it that she is going to drop by any second. "I don’t know. I don’t know everything that is going on right now" Twilight sobbed out.
"Are you lying to me?" Celestia asked, this time in an entirely different voice, it was warm and understanding.
"No," Twilight simply replied, washing away the nearly formed tears, she continued. "Please, princess, don't harm her. You can hold me responsible if any unsuspected event may occur," Twilight pleaded.
"My dear Twilight, this is not about who is responsible and who isn't. After eons of leadership I learned to do what is the best for Equestria as a whole, without regarding any subjective feelings."
"But..." Twilight tried to argue with her.
"I understand if you hate me now Twilight, but keep in mind that I would never do anything to harm you or your friends in anyway if there are other solutions, but this situation does simply not offer any other resolution."
A couple of seconds passed in silence before Luna appeared with a loud crashing noise, together with Fluttershy. The noise Luna made in doing so was heard by Twilight’s friends, they all rushed inside, everyone of them wearing her necklace.
"What happened?" Applejack asked as she was inspecting the room.
"I couldn’t hide Fluttershy’s presence any longer from my sister, so I figured the best way to go is here, but it seems like my sister was a step ahead of me," Luna explained.
"Could we stop this hide and seek game ?" Celestia merely said as she approached the unconscious pegasus.
"Twilight!" Dash called upon the purple unicorn
Twilight was on her knees now, she had to decide what to do, NOW!
"I cant decide, I cant decide," she kept repeating this in her head, not being able to think straight anymore. She opened her eyes and glimpsed Rarity’s and Dash’s faces, which were full of despair. It was like every single one of her friends is pressuring her to take action.
Without being aware of it, Twilight’s horn started to glow, and her Element got levitated out of the shelve, slowly approaching her head. "Stop it, Stop it , Stop it, I don’t want this,"
Twilight thought, but her horn didn’t stop glowing. The crown was now placed on her head, a surge of magic was sent through her. She felt how more and more energy was flowing inside of her horn. Trying everything to disrupt the process, Twilight found herself immovable, not wanting to believe what is happening right now.
The necklaces of Applejack, Dash, Rarity and Pinkie also started to glow now. Luna observed the room around her and realized what was going on.
"What, NO STOP IT!" she screamed
Celestia simply stood in the middle of the room, not moving. She knew what was going on and what is going to happen, but she did no effort in disrupting it. The princess turned her head around, looking into Twilight’s eyes, which were now filled with an white, bright light.
"This is what you want?" Celestia said under her breath, not awaiting any kind of response from her student.
Twilight looked to the princess, who just smiled at her. Why was she smiling? She must know what is happening. Why doesn’t she stop me? Somepony please... stop me
Twilight was barely conscious, everything seemed to surreal to her.
The Elements were now finished channeling. Despite only five being present, they still had immense energy inside them. A rainbow colored beam manifested above them. A couple of seconds later the blast shot straight towards Celestia.
The princess however did not even try to dodge it. She simply looked at her beloved student, her eyes indicated the great pain she felt inside of her heart. Nevertheless, somehow she also was happy. Seeing her student grow up to a mare who is ready to stand up against her own mentor for the sake of her friends. It was rather ironic, the friends Twilight made because of Celestia’s task now took her student away from her. She couldn’t help but smile when she thought about it.
The spell slowly entwined her. She felt her hooves get heavier before not being able to sense them at all. This feeling slowly crawled up her flank, her stomach and her neck at last. A tear escaped her eyes before she was fully turned into stone.
The room was in a silence; no one dared to break it. The tension in the air pressed to hard on everypony. Luna made the first move, she was approaching her sister with hesitant steps. She bowed down in front of the petrified body of Celestia, a grimace of guilt on her face.
"I didnt want this" she whispered to nopony in particular. She looked around the room everyone was frozen where they stood, not being able to believe what they have just done.
Twilight however did not want to believe it. She held her hooves before her eyes to negate her vision, being too afraid of what she might see. "This cant be, it must be just a dream, if I open my eyes everything will be back to normal again!" Twilight persuaded herself.
She slowly moved her hooves away from her left, then right eye, hesitating a second before opening them. The sight was not what she was awaiting. It was not a dream; her teachers body was laying on the ground, not moving. The truth hit Twilight hard; her stomach started to twist and her head was starting to hurt. Her body was trembling frantically. She looked at her own hooves with disgust; it was HER who set all this in motion. The thought of this evoked an immense amount of pain in her chest. It was like her heart was trying to break out of her chest. "How could I... She always took care of me... Why...". The purple unicorn was not understanding a thing; thousands of questions were drifting through her mind. The pain she was experienced increased every second. It became unbearable. She had to get it out somehow.
First she tried to cry it out, but she was not fast enough.
Then she tried to scream it out, but she was not loud enough.
Twilight ended up hoping that her malady will cause her to fall unconscious sooner or later.
Her friends did not know what they could do to reduce the agony of the unicorn. Everyone of them was thinking what they could do right now for their friend.
Pinkie was the first one to move. She was trotting towards Twilight with silent steps. Upon standing in front of her, she wrapped her hooves around her, tapping her back gently. "Let it all out, Twi," Pinkie said; unlike usually, her voice was not loud and joyous, it was calm and understanding.
Twilight looked at the pink pony who was holding her for a second before she couldn’t hold it any longer. She cried as much as she could, trying to wash her conscious clear.
Her other friends did the same as Pinkie, they all surrounded Twilight, trying to comfort her as much as they could.
Twilight felt how some of her pain was disappearing once she realized that all her friends were here for her. It was a warm and tingling feeling which slowly spread across her heart, starting to make her feel better. Several minutes passed where only Twilight’s sobbing was to be heard, then she stopped. The unicorn was still sad, but the pain as bearable now. Having her friends around her helped to make her accept the reality.
Trotting was to be heard again, and they all wondered from whom it came. Turning their heads around, they gazed at the moon goddess, who was now standing in front of her sisters petrified body.
"Princess, we are so very sorry that we had to do this," Rarity apologized, the guilt clearly resounding in her voice.
"Save your breath" Luna responded, trying to maintain a regal voice, yet it still had a sad tone within it. "You cant change the past; crying about it wont get us very far," she added towards Twilight. Before any more words could be exchanged Luna’s horn started to glow in a dim light and teleported both her and her sister away.
They were staying in the library until late in the night, without a single word between them being dropped, just enjoying being close to each other. Even Dash didn't say anything or move; the usually active and impatient pegasus had too much to think about. It wasn't too long until Twilight fell asleep first, one after another following. Surprisingly even Pinkie was not the last one to be up; it was in fact Rarity. The unicorn detached herself gently from the ponies laying around her, and trotted towards Fluttershy, who was peacefully sleeping. She picked up a blanket from the couch next to her and covered her with it, before returning to her friends and slowly descending into her dreams.
Dash was the first one to wake up. She was still tired when she got up on her hooves, but didn’t feel like going back to sleep again. Not being able to tell whether it was morning or still night, because the sun did not rise since yesterday. With silent steps she approached to the couch where Fluttershy was sleeping, being careful to wake none of her friends. Once arrived Dash sat down next to her, watching her sleep ever so peaceful. In her mind she was recapping what happened over the course of the week, first this strange poison, then that crazy spell and now they had to stand up against the sun goddess herself, everything just so she can survive. Rainbow Dash let out a sigh at this before muttering to herself "Totally worth it" with a smirk. The sound of this was loud enough to wake the pegasus who was sleeping next to her.
Fluttershy opened up her eyelids, looking a little dizzy when she observed the room around her, seeing the cyan pegasus sitting behind her.
"Fluttershy? You are awake? How are you feeling?" Dash bombarded her with questions, still maintaining a hushed voice.
"Uhm.... I feel fine," Fluttershy replied with her usual silent voice.
Dash couldn’t help but smile upon hearing it again; it sounded so sweet that she just wanted to hug the pegasus next to her.
"Dash?"
"Yes Fluttershy?"
"Did you mean what you said back then in the cave?" Fluttershy asked with a timid voice, instantly regretting what she said.
"What do you mean?" Dash replied, obviously being clueless of what she meant.
"Well, uhm... you said that you kinda... like me" she stammered
Dash thought about this for second before remembering what she said in the cave. She took a deep breath. "I guess I did..." she answered in a barely audible voice. After those words were said she avoided Fluttershy’s gaze at all costs. She was thinking about flying away right now, being too afraid of getting rejected.
A couple of seconds passed in silence, where none of the two pegasi said or moved. Dash couldn’t take it any longer. She finally wanted to know if Fluttershy feels the same way about her. She turned around to ask her when the yellow pegasus jumped on to her, wrapping her hooves around.
"Oh Dash, I’m so happy! I thought you hated me!" Fluttershy could barely contain her joy right now. She couldn't believe that she wasn't dreaming
Dash was surprised at first but found herself returning the hug. "I could never hate you" she whispered.
"I love you, too Dash"
|
tyion
|
1019
| 10 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-10-17T01:01:07+00:00
|
2011-10-17T01:01:07+00:00
| 4,018 |
This is the sad ending of the sorry. If you wanna proceed then brace yourselves, because manly tears are imminent.
==========
"NO!" Dash screamed, but it was too late. She turned around and saw that the regeneration seal on Fluttershy`s flank disappeared and that her eyes were closed.
She ran next to her, lifting her up.
"Fluttershy?" she called with an unsteady voice.
No answer was given; she held one of her eyes on her chest to listen to her heartbeat
"Dum.............dum........dum......"
"Dash?" Fluttershy suddenly said with a weak voice.
"Yes, Fluttershy?" Dash replied, tears dropping onto the mane of the pegasus she was talking with.
"So you don't hate me?"
"No, no, I don't hate you. I love you."
Several seconds passed before Fluttershy smiled. "I'm relieved," she said.
"Fluttershy?"
No reaction
"Hey, Fluttershy"
No reaction.
She listened to her heartbeat again. "Dum........dum...................." Dash waited, and waited for the next beat to come, but it never did.
A sudden burst of pain ran through her heart; it was like a thousand needles stinging into it. Her mind could not think straight, everything was so surreal for her. The agony and sorrow she felt was unbearable, she had to let it out somehow.
She had to make it stop, but it did not.
She started to cry, hoping that it would take away her pain.
But she couldn't cry hard and fast enough.
She started to scream her grief out, but she wasn't loud enough.
Everything started to turn blurry around her; her heart was being torn apart and there was nothing she could do against it. The pony she loved just died, and she would never talk to her again. Thinking of this made the pegasus go crazy. She struck her hooves against the thick stone walls, trying to let out her anger. She soon found herself lying on the ground, screaming and crying, blood pouring down from her hooves. She never felt anything like this before. She was feeling every single negative emotion at once; anger, sorrow, grief, agony, despair. It was worse than any physical pain she ever experienced. She tried to calm herself down but upon seeing the lifeless body of her friend the pain grew unbearable once again.
Several minutes passed in which Dash was just freaking out. She thought she is going to lose it right there, but she was too exhausted to proceed.
She laid down next to Fluttershy, panting heavily. She turned her head around and facing the body of the pegasus. She still felt sadness somewhere, but it was like she was out of emotions to feel. Feeling numb inside. she couldn't even cry anymore, because she was out of tears. She was even wondering if her heart was still there; of course it was beating, but she couldn't feel it anymore.
A bright light was now slowly enclosing the two pegasi, and a second later they were both back at the library.
"Dash? What happened how is-?" Twilight abruptly stopped once she saw Fluttershy`s lifeless body. Rarity and Pinkie were also present, but couldn't say anything.
Rarity started to cry upon realizing what has happened; her friend was dead. She wasn't even able to tell her last goodbye to her. Fluttershy is gone... no matter how often that thought crossed her mind, she still couldn't believe it.
Pinkie’s curled and vivid mane immediately fell straight. It was like being hit by reality with a hard blow. The pink pony never thought about death and never experienced it happening in such a close environment. Pinkie didn't know how she should feel, or what she was feeling. It was similar to when she worked at the rock field, only hounded times as intense.
Applejack was working on the fields when she felt a pain in her heart.
"Whats the matter?" Big Mac asked her.
"Nothin’, nothin’ at all," she reassured before getting back to work
"Huh?" she said to nopony in particular. Wiping a hoof over her eye she found herself crying, but didn't know why.
The sun did not rise for the entire week; Luna announced to everypony that everything will be back to normal soon.
But the five friends did not mind. Why should there be a sun? A sun was a sign of happiness. And there was no happiness to be found inside of Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie, Applejack and especially Dash.
|
tyion
|
1019
| 11 |
Angel,Main 6,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Spike,Trixie,Adventure,Romance,Sad,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
A rainbows burden
|
Fluttershy and Trixie get intoxicated with an unknown poison. Is there a way to cure them?
|
complete
| 36 | 6 |
<p>When Fluttershy tries to help a pony in need she gets lured into a cave deep within the everfree forest.</p><p>The cave however is not harmless , it is filled with an ancient poison which intoxicates who ever it encounters for too long . Its consequences are severe .</p><p>Luckily Dash is there to save Fluttershy and the mysterious Pony who was inside of it aswell . But it may be too late . </p><p>Can they find a cure for the Poison before Fluttershys time runs out?</p><p>=====</p><p>THERE ARE 2 ENDINGS FOR THIS!</p><p>Chapter 9 is the OFFICIAL! Ending. </p><p>Chapter 10 is for people who want to be sad!</p>
|
everyone
|
2012-01-01T20:20:45+00:00
|
2012-01-01T20:20:45+00:00
| 2,562 |
After nearly 3 months, the "sequel" has been released.
http://www.fimfiction.net/story/5835/Deception
Have fun reading it! <3
|
sammyberry
|
1021
| 1 |
Main 6,Comedy,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
An Unsuccessful Date
|
Rainbow Dash and Applejack try and go on a date.
|
incomplete
| 14 | 3 |
<p>Due to popular demand, this is now a three-part story. I'm currently working on chapter/part 2, so look for that soon ^^</p><p>Twilight tries to help Applejack and Rainbow Dash go on a "date", but when she stays up too late and drinks maybe ten too many energy drinks, she becomes tired, sick, and very crazy. Will she ruin Rainbow Dash and Applejack's "date"? Again, a simple one-shot... maybe. I might continue it with a second attempt at a date or something. I'll leave it as incomplete for now :)</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-25T01:54:26+00:00
|
2011-09-25T01:54:26+00:00
| 2,948 |
Twilight Sparkle sighed as Rainbow Dash concluded her story.
"So... you gotta help me talk to Applejack! I'm totally gonna screw this up if I try and ask her by myself!" Rainbow Dash said, very unlike her.
Twilight said, "So let me get this straight. You want me to help you try and go on a date with Applejack? Why do you think I'd be able to help you?" Rainbow shrugged. "You were just the first pony that came to mind. I know if anypony can do it, you can Twilight," Twilight sighed again.
"Rainbow Dash, I'm not sure if I really should help you. You always say you know about dating and things, why can't you just do it?" "Because it's concerning me! I can't do it if it's got to do with me! I'll get all tongue-tied and I won't know the first thing to say!" Rainbow Dash looked at Twilight with puppy dog eyes. "Please?"
Twilight smiled a little. "You really wanna go through with this, don't you?" Rainbow Dash nodded. Twilight hopped up and put on a determined expression. "Well, all right then. Let's do this!" Rainbow Dash cheered and hugged Twilight. Suddenly she pulled away. "Oh, um, don't tell anypony I came to you for advice. That'd be totally uncool," Twilight laughed and said, "I promise,"
The two ponies trotted outside. "Ok, so um, how are we going to do this?" Rainbow Dash asked. Twilight thought about that. "Well, I've noticed that you two ponies are always together, so maybe you could just... walk over to Applejack's place and ask her if she wants to... um... do something?" Twilight gave an unconfident smile. Rainbow groaned. "If it was that easy I would've done it already! Come on, Twilight! You're a bookworm! You should know how to handle these kinds of situations!"
Twilight sighed. "Rainbow Dash, I don't know! I've never really had to deal with something like this! Why don't you ask Rarity or Pinkie Pie instead? I'm sure they'll be able to help you a lot more than I can," she said. Rainbow sighed. "Twilight, maybe you're right. But... wait! What if ALL you girls help me? Fluttershy, Rarity, you, AND Pinkie Pie! You can all help me!" Rainbow Dash said excitedly. She flew up in the air and did loops in the air.
Twilight smiled and said, "Oh, fine," She went off to get the other ponies, leaving Rainbow Dash twisting and turning in the air.
Rainbow stopped when she heard a familiar voice say, "What are you so happy about?" Rainbow Dash looked down and saw Applejack looking up at her with a smile on her face. Rainbow blushed and felt extremely embarrassed. "Oh, um, no reason," she said with an embarrassed laugh, slowly sinking back down to the ground. Applejack giggled. "Sorry, you just looked so happy, and it was sweet. I like you better when you're in a good mood," she said smiling brightly. Rainbow's heart glowed. Applejack was so amazing. And she had no idea that Rainbow liked her, she was only being a nice friend. Applejack's smile was so sweet as well.... woah. Rainbow Dash shook her head. 'What am I thinking? I've never thought about stuff like that before. I'm not into that mushy stuff!' she thought to herself. Applejack looked at her, clearly confused. "Um, did I say something?" Rainbow Dash shook her head and said, "Oh no, sorry, my mind's just been getting a lot thoughts lately," Rainbow said with a nervous laugh. Applejack smiled and said, "Well, don't think too hard now, ok? Don't want that little noggin' of yours to start hurting!"
On any other day, with any other pony, Rainbow wouldn't have taken that as a joke, but because it was Applejack, she laughed along with her. "Yeah, thanks," she said. Applejack laughed and said, "Well sugarcube, I'd really love to stay and chat, but Big Mac's got me on some errands, so I'd better be gettin' on with it," Rainbow Dash only nodded. Applejack's accent was so cute... Rainbow shook her head. What was going on with her? "Um, yeah. Ok... but uh...will you be available tomorrow?" Applejack replied, "Yeah, I sure will be. At least I think I will. I hope I will. Why? You got something planned?" Applejack elbowed Rainbow Dash and giggled. Rainbow said, "Oh, um, no, haven't got anything planned. I was just... um.. wondering," Applejack smiled and walked away. Rainbow sighed and fell over.
"Ok, so what do I need to do? I'll help Rainbow and Applejack to the best of my abilities!" Rarity said proudly. Fluttershy smiled. "I think it's so sweet that they like each other," Twilight perked up. "Wait... Fluttershy, how do you know Applejack likes Rainbow Dash?" Fluttershy shrunk back. "Oh, um... I... uh... I don't," Pinkie Pie giggled. "This is going to be so much fun!" Rainbow Dash flew up to her friends and landed in front of them.
"Hey girls, can we, um, make this quick? I kinda sorta have a date with Applejack tomorrow, I just need an idea for what I'm gonna do exactly..." The other ponies looked at her. Twilight cleared her throat and said, "All right, then, Rainbow Dash. I hereby take on the responsibility of being in charge of pairing you two up. I'll definitely make you guys have an awesome time!" Rainbow Dash smiled gratefully. "Thank you," Twilight smiled and said, "You're welcome. Everypony, come back tomorrow afternoon. I'll think of an idea tonight," she said. Everypony nodded and left.
The next morning Twilight dreaded seeing her friends. She wasn't successful in coming up with a good subtle idea for Rainbow and Applejack's date, and she didn't want to have to face her friends. She rubbed her tired eyes and yawned. The only way she was able to comb her hair out its rat's nest was with her magic.
Twilight hurriedly swept her eyes over a couple books to see if she could muster up some measly excuse for an idea. She came up with nothing. Twilight groaned. How would she be able to tell Rainbow and the others? Oh Celestia, Twilight thought. What would she say to Rainbow Dash? She didn't even want to think about it.
She tidied up around her house, trying to think of an idea. Spike was no help; he was sound asleep on the floor. Suddenly Twilight got the best idea she could think of: Rainbow Dash could take Applejack out on a picnic, with the other ponies coming at first, then leaving because they had to "do something", which would leave Applejack and Rainbow Dash alone. Twilight sighed. It was all she had time for.
As Twilight was pacing back and forth waiting for her friends to show up, she grew more tired and started feeling sick. She really shouldn't have stayed up so late, and she definitely shouldn't have drunk all those Dragon energy drinks. Twilight looked at her library and froze. It was such a mess! Books were scattered everywhere, papers were thrown all over the floor, scrolls were unrolled across the floor, there were ink splatters covering almost every inch on her tables, and the trash bins were overflowing with crumpled up pieces of paper. Twilight's eyes instantly felt 10 times heavier.
She sighed and started to get to work cleaning the library. Strands of her mane were sticking out in odd places and she had bags under eyes. When she looked in the mirror, she was reminded of how Applejack had looked when she'd tried to applebuck every apple tree by herself. Twilight sighed and decided that she shouldn't try and push herself over her limit. She would go to her breaking point, but once she was there, she would fall over and sleep. She wouldn't be as stubborn as Applejack; everypony knew how that had turned out. But Twilight could still think, so she ignored the fact that her stomach felt like there were bubbles in it, and the fact that if she sat down she'd instantly fall asleep.
There was a knock at her door, and Twilight answered groggily, "Come in," Fluttershy opened the door and was in the middle of saying, "Good afternoon, Twilight," when Rainbow Dash flew in past her and right up to Twilight and she said, "Did you come up with an idea? Please say you thought of something! I told Applejack I'd come by in an hour!" Twilight looked at her sleepily and said, "Yeah, yeah, I have an idea," she explained her idea to the ponies, and they all agreed that it was a good plan. Twilight smiled gratefully.
Pinkie Pie got to work baking things, Fluttershy went to the park and explained to the animals what they're secret assignment was. Rarity helped Rainbow Dash with her manners and what she should wear. Twilight used this opportunity as a chance to sleep. She got about 30 minutes of sleep in before it was time to review everything.
"Ok," Twilight started off tiredly, "so the food's ready to go, the animals know what they're doing, and Rainbow's ready," as Twilight said this last detail, she turned toward Rainbow Dash, who looked pretty, in a subtle way.
Rainbow Dash's neck was adorned with a silver necklace with a rainbow charm on it, and she had a cloud pin in her hair, pulling back prettily. Simple, yet stunning. Rarity was more than a little grumpy about not being able to clothe Rainbow Dash in some kind of outfit, but they were going for subtle after all.
"Ok. We're ready to go," Twilight said through a yawn. Rainbow Dash looked at her friend and said, "Um, Twilight, maybe you should stay here and get some sleep. You look like you really need it," Twilight shook her head. "No, no, I'm fine. I want to be there for you, Rainbow Dash," she smiled. Rainbow replied with an uncertain, "Well, ok,"
The ponies all approached Sweet Apple Acres and greeted Applejack happily. Applejack wasn't dressed up when they arrived, but Twilight did notice she tried to secretly brush her mane and slipped on a red and orange bead bracelet.
The six ponies walked towards the park, making sure Applejack and Rainbow Dash were walking beside one another. When they reached the designated area underneath a huge oak tree, Rarity lay the pink blanket down on the grass. The ponies made sure Applejack and Rainbow were the first ones to sit down on the blanket; it was really only big enough for two ponies. Rarity giggled and said, "It was the only blanket I had. I'm sorry," Applejack shrugged. "Eh, it's fine. Y'all can sit on the blanket I brought," Applejack lay out a green blanket and smiled. The other ponies gave off a round of thank you's and sat down on the blanket. Twilight was feeling a bit dizzy.
As the ponies started eating, Twilight didn't feel too sick anymore, she just felt really crazy and hyper. One by one, the ponies trickled away, with Rarity leaving first, claiming she just realized she had an order due tomorrow, then Pinkie Pie, who said she had promised Derpy and Bon Bon she'd help them with a party for Lyra, and then Fluttershy, who explained that she had to tend to some sick squirrels. Twilight, however, forgot to leave, and stayed with Rainbow Dash and Applejack.
"So, um, I guess we're by ourselves now," Rainbow Dash said, blushing. Applejack looked behind her and said, "I don't know what you're talking about, Rainbow Dash, Twilight's still here," "What!?!" Rainbow Dash hissed, turning around. "Twilight, didn't you say you had to be somewhere?" she asked through gritted teeth.
Rainbow Dash twisted back around to face Applejack. "Well, um, I don't think she's feeling too good, so maybe she won't talk that much," Applejack gasped, "Oh, Twilight, do you not feel good? You should go home and rest, sugarcube," Twilight said, "Oh no, I'm fine, really, Applejack. Don't mind me. Just carry on with your conversation," Twilight's pupils were growing tinier every minute, and Rainbow was scared she was going to accidentally say something.
Rainbow Dash tried to ignore Twilight, and went on with her conversation, like Twilight told her. "So, um, did ya hear how I made a new speeding record yesterday?" Rainbow said with a forced smile. Applejack replied, somewhat absentmindedly, "Yeah, I think somepony told me about that…. Um, Twilight, you really should go, you don't look so great," Twilight shook her head. "I want to stay! There's still food! Oh look! A duck!" Twilight smiled widely as a duck passed by her and plopped itself into the lake nearby. "Uh… yeah, it's a duck. Good job, Twilight," Rainbow Dash deadpanned. "Anyway, um, how's life been at Sweet Apple Acres?"
Applejack turned back to Rainbow and smiled. "It's been pretty hectic. I've missed being able to see y'all. I've been so busy. I was really happy to find out that I had today off. I couldn't wait to see you. Oh, and the others too," Applejack said, blushing a little. Twilight spoke up, "Aw, that's so sweet Applejack!" then she started talking to other ponies that weren't there. "Uh, Rainbow? What's going on with Twilight?" Rainbow Dash had to admit she had no clue. This wasn't part of the plan.
Suddenly birds flew out of nowhere and landed on a low branch in the oak tree, and started singing a sweet tune. Applejack and Rainbow Dash looked up at them, then turned and looked at each other. They blushed more, and then Rainbow Dash said, "I've missed you, Applejack," Applejack said, "I've missed you, too, Rainbow. Gee, I never realized how much time applebuckin's takin' away from me. I really should spend time y'all more often," Rainbow Dash smiled. The two love struck ponies slowly inched closer together. A couple of bunnies hopped up and placed matching flower headdresses on each mare's head.
The ponies looked into each other's eyes, and in that moment, all else was forgotten. They were both surrounded by a warm, thick liquid-like substance, like soap. All they saw was each other, and they were both lost in their own world. Rainbow Dash absently placed her hoof on Applejack's hoof. Nothing could disrupt this perfect harmony they had found. Nothing, except of course, Twilight Sparkle.
"Hey guys, I think I'm done. Does anypony want my leftovers?" she called. Applejack and Rainbow's world was shattered, the moment lost, and they were back in the park, nighttime all around them. "Oh wow, is it really this late already? Time sure does fly by when you're having fun! Guess it's time to hit the hay," Applejack said, standing up awkwardly. "Um, thanks for the picnic, Rainbow Dash. I had a good time. We should do it again sometime," she smiled a little, then galloped away.
Rainbow Dash glared at Twilight. "What'd you do that for? We were doing so good and then you just HAD to interrupt!" she yelled. Twilight only looked at her. Rainbow Dash groaned and said, "Come on, sick pony. It's time you get to bed," she cleaned everything up and then dragged Twilight home to take care of her. Rainbow concluded that it was the least she could do for her friend who tried to help her. She sighed and thought, 'Maybe next time,'
Twilight looked at the moon and said, "Ooh! Pretty moon!" and then she laughed. Her laugh echoed throughout all of Ponyville as Rainbow Dash dragged her down the road.
|
sammyberry
|
1021
| 2 |
Main 6,Comedy,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
An Unsuccessful Date
|
Rainbow Dash and Applejack try and go on a date.
|
incomplete
| 14 | 3 |
<p>Due to popular demand, this is now a three-part story. I'm currently working on chapter/part 2, so look for that soon ^^</p><p>Twilight tries to help Applejack and Rainbow Dash go on a "date", but when she stays up too late and drinks maybe ten too many energy drinks, she becomes tired, sick, and very crazy. Will she ruin Rainbow Dash and Applejack's "date"? Again, a simple one-shot... maybe. I might continue it with a second attempt at a date or something. I'll leave it as incomplete for now :)</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-11-07T01:03:49+00:00
|
2011-11-07T01:03:49+00:00
| 1,456 |
Applejack trotted back and forth between the apple trees. She was really worrying about Rainbow Dash. Their last outing hadn't gone the way she had wanted to at all! Of course, that was probably because of Twilight, but still.... Applejack couldn't stop reliving that magical moment. She had been thinking it was almost too good to be true, and unfortunately, she was right. Applejack groaned.
How could she do or say anything in front of Rainbow Dash now? She really didn't want to go to Twilight, considering she was the one who had destroyed the perfect occurrence in the first place. But what other pony could she approach? Applejack was pretty sure Rainbow Dash liked her back, especially with that little scene. But she wanted to be sure. Applejack didn't want to lure herself in on false pretenses.
Applejack continued her pacing, leaving deep trenches in her repeating journey. She was so involved with her thoughts that she almost fell into a hole. Big Mac grabbed her tail and yanked her back. He had come from nowhere, but had come at the right moment.
Applejack flung herself into Big Mac and started crying. "Oh, brother, I don't know what to do! I really love Rainbow Dash, but it's just so hard to confess! And every time we try and have a date or something somepony always ruins it! It's not fair!" Applejack sniffed and said quietly, "Maybe it's not meant to be,"
Big Mac had been taken off guard, so he didn't say anything for a few moments. He looked down at Applejack and said, "Now AJ, this just ain't like you. If yer this emotional about Dash than ya gotta say somethin'. Otherwise, ya might spill somethin' to the wrong pony and then BAM! Rumors'll be ignitin' faster'n a forest fire. Come on, AJ. Ya gotta tell her. At least give her a hint or somethin',"
Applejack sniffed again and sighed. "Maybe yer right, Big Mac. There's only one way to figure this out, and that's to tell Rainbow Dash herself! Thank ya big brother," Applejack galloped away, eager to go find Rainbow and confess.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Meanwhile...
"...can't believe you let yourself do that! On MY date!" Rainbow Dash was grumbling. She was over at Twilight's, which was still a cluttered mess. Twilight's ears fell down and she whispered, "I-I'm sorry, Rainbow Dash... I don't know why I acted that way. It was totally not like me. I'm usually very sophisticated," Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes at that comment but otherwise ignored it.
"You stayed up too darn late, Twilight! If you didn't have an idea you could've simply told me and I could've helped you out!" she gave an exasperated sigh. "Now she probably never wants to see me again. We were doing just fine until you interrupted us and made it awkward!" Rainbow Dash sat on the floor, her eyes brimming with tears. She blinked them away, feeling them fall down onto her hooves.
Twilight bit her lip and approached Rainbow Dash cautiously. “I’m sorry, Rainbow. Really, If I had known I’d act crazy I wouldn’t have gone. I would ask if there was anything I could help you with, but… I don’t think you really want my help anymore…” Rainbow Dash glared at Twilight.
Rainbow sighed and said, “Well, I forgive you, but Applejack probably doesn’t want anything to do with me anymore.
Twilight looked up. “Oh, I doubt that, Rainbow Dash! Through my haziness, I could tell that Applejack was really enjoying herself. I’m sure…” Rainbow Dash was glaring at her. “Um… did I say something wrong?”
“You could tell AJ was enjoying herself? And you still INTERRUPTED!?!?” Rainbow Dash leaped forward, trying to grab at Twilight. Twilight shrieked and ran out of the way. “Rainbow Dash! Calm down! I said I was sorry!”
Rainbow Dash looked at Twilight, eyes glowing with frustration. She sighed and fell onto the floor. “OW!!!” she yelped, bursting up into the air. She had fallen on a bookmark sticking out of a book on the ground. And it was sharp.
Rainbow Dash peered down at the bookmark, then slowly flew down to read the book. Twilight looked at her questioningly. “And why are you interested in my agriculture book?” She asked. Rainbow looked up at her and said, “Well if it’s agriculture, maybe I can learn how to plant some things with Applejack and “bond” that way,”
Twilight nodded, slowly understanding. “I get it. But I’m just going to assume you don’t want my help,” she said. Dash turned back to the book. “No, thanks. I’m going to go ask Big Mac if he can help me practice. Do you mind if I take this book?” she asked.
Twilight nodded and said, “Yeah, maybe that’s how I can help you! Let you use my book!” Dash looked at her and smirked. “Sure, let’s go with that. Thanks Twilight!” with that she picked up the book and flapped her wings. She zoomed out of the library and left Twilight alone.
“So… will you help me?” Rainbow Dash said, annoyed. This was the fourth time she’d asked Big Mac and he STILL hadn’t answered her.
He looked at her with his half-closed eyes, like he was trying hard not to go to sleep. “Well, see the thing is, RD, I’m kinda busy with the orchard an’ all, I don’t know if I got any time fer ya. I mean, teachin’ ya how ta plant an’ grow things, it’d take a lotta time, time I just ain’t got. Why don’t ya ask AJ? I’m sure she’d love ta help ya,” with that he started to walk away, chewing on his sprig of wheat.
“No!” Rainbow cried, trying to push him back with all her might. Big Macintosh simply kept walking forward, as if Rainbow Dash wasn’t even there. “Look, RD, if ya really wanta learn, ya wouldn’t be so intent on makin’ me help ya practice. Ya’d jump at the best opportunity, and I ain’t it. I don’t see why you don’t go ta her in the first place,” he stopped and thought for a moment. “Actually, I just remembered somethin’. AJ was lookin’ fer ya earlier this mornin’. She had somethin’ ta tell ya, but she said she couldn’t find ya anywhere. Ya really should go ta her,” he walked around Rainbow Dash and continued on his walk to the orchard, smiling all the way.
Rainbow sat and stared at nothing in particular. Applejack had been looking for her? A smile slowly sneaked up and found its home on her lips. She tried to suppress her joyful excitement, but a rather loud yay filled the air. Suddenly she heard hoofprints behind her. Rainbow Dash turned and saw Applejack looking at her.
“Rainbow? What’re you doin’ here?” her face was expressionless, but Rainbow Dash could see the struggle Applejack was going through with her mouth. She almost slipped, and a small half-smile appeared for the briefest second on her lips. Her wonderful lips… Rainbow Dash shook her head and cleared her throat.
“UM, NO REASON, I JUST WANTED TO LEARN ABOUT FARMING,” she yelled. Applejack looked at her friend. “Um, are you ok, sugarcube?” she asked.
A shiver ran up Dash’s spine. Sure, Applejack called everypony “sugarcube”, but when she called her that, it sounded softer, and sweeter, and filled Dash’s ears with a wonderful sweet sounding music. Dash cleared her throat again and said, “Can you… um… teach me about farming?”
Applejack looked at her. “Since when have you been interested in farming?” Dash scraped her hoof along in the dirt. She shrugged and said, “I don’t know… but will you help me? I even have Twilight’s book on agriculture and farming with me!” She showed Applejack the book.
Applejack smiled and said, “Ok, sugarcube. I’ll help ya,” she turned around and started off towards the fields, and mouthed a yes! to herself.
Rainbow Dash did the same thing, and quickly followed her. They started off down the hill together, talking and laughing the whole way down.
|
White-pawPony
|
1022
| 1 |
Adventure,Alternate Universe,Dark
|
Anti-Equestria
|
After defeating Discord, Twilight Sparkle is pulled into a frightening dimension of opposites.
|
incomplete
| -1 | -1 |
<p></p>
|
everyone
| null |
2012-09-13T01:47:07+00:00
| 102 |
Twilight Sparkle shut her door with a sigh. Relief enveloped her and a smile spread across her face as she heard the most wonderful sounds from outside the library.
Her five friends were happy - and incredibly normal. Pinkie Pie was laughing and sharing a joke with Rainbow Dash; Fluttershy, Rarity and Applejack were quietly conversing; Equestria was back in balance.
How incredibly disturbing yesterday had been. Discord rampaging through Equestria and causing chaos every which way. This frightening creature had nearly broken apart the most incredible friends - and Twilight Sparkle had almost let him. It had been earlier today when Princess Celestia had held a ceremony in their honor, and the purple pupil had gotten to relate her letter to her teacher personally.
"My Dearest Princess; I have learned something incredibly important. This is that friendship isn't easy, and there will be many people who want to break apart your friendship. But those relationships that you have made are just too important to let go because of arguments or pain."
Yes, Twilight had learned a lot. But although she usually enjoyed learning, this adventure had taken its toll on her, and she needed some rest.
Softly trotting to the second floor of her cozy home, Twilight saw her young friend, Spike, cuddled into a ball and snoring softly on his bed. She nuzzled him lovingly. What would I ever do without my friends? she thought to herself.
Twilight Sparkle then began her nightly routine of preparing for sleep; she first brushed her teeth while reciting in her mind the fifty-five rules of magical conduct. Next she cleansed her face with a warm, damp rag, wiping away the day's worries. She then took her hairbrush, and went over to her mirror to untangle her mane once more before bed, when she noticed something odd.
The mirror she usually used to inspect herself had been replaced. The new one was full-length and ornate, and incredibly haunting for no particular reason. Who could have done this, I wonder? Twilight mused. She set down her hairbrush on a stool next to the mirror, and slowly drew closer to the object.
It was entrancing, really. Twilight could not remember a time when she had been so awed by her own appearance. It was her reflection... but it wasn't her. Her heart skipped a beat.
Suddenly, two pony arms reached out from inside the mirror and pulled her in! Twilight yelled out, closing her eyes tightly. The sensation of going through the mirror was mortifying - unlike anything she had felt before. Her head spun, her body seeming as if it would rip apart at the seems at any moment. Her ears rang, and her soul hollowed out in fear. There was a large thud as her body struck down onto hard, cold matter.
When her eyes opened, Twilight Sparkle found herself in a dark meadow, stars dotting the sky above. In front of her was what seemed to be an open window, remaning there in thin air. On the other side of this window was a mare that looked exactly like her... standing right where she had been moments ago.
"Who... who are you?!" Twilight Sparkle cried out.
The purple mare opposite her gave a malicious grin, "Who am I? I am you! Twilight Sparkle."
Twilight couldn't understand. "Where am I? What have you done?"
"I was growing tired of my existence in the world in which you now stand. So now I have a whole new dimension to conquer!" explained the unicorn, leaning forward.
Twilight leaped towards the portal, only to find that it was as impenetrable as glass. "Undo whatever you have done, now!"
"I'm afraid that's impossible," replied Twilight's copy. "Enjoy your stay in the Land of Discord... or as you might like to call it, 'Anti-Equestria'!"
|
Amber Sin
|
1023
| 1 |
Original Character,Crossover,Dark,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The Mariner's Revenge
|
A vengeful colt named Joshua tells a whale of a tale.
|
complete
| -1 | -1 |
<p>A vengeful colt named Joshua tells a whale of a tale.</p><p><b>Note:</b><br/>This is just a short story based off one of my favorite songs. [youtube link to it if you're interested: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEmy2DBaeTc" rel="nofollow">^^</a> ]<br/>I wrote it to get my creative juices flowing while working on a different (much more pony related) fanfiction.<br/>I know, it really doesn't need to be a pony story, but it is. Deal with it.</p>
|
teen
|
2011-09-25T23:57:47+00:00
|
2011-09-25T23:57:47+00:00
| 1,225 |
The Mariner's Revenge;The Fall of Jericho
Based off of The Mariner's Revenge Song by The Decemberists.
In the darkness, all that existed was emotion. I would know, I had lived in my own cloud of darkness for several years. Light and sound was there, but I would never really notice it. I was lost in my own hole, my own gloom nopony else could see. This pitch blackness was different, however. It was almost tangible, hanging around me like a huge blanket. It muffled all sound, it crushed down onto my shoulders with an unbearable weight. Yet, as I lay on the wet floor, I felt only calmness. A clear blue wave washing away all anger and fear, almost shaking away the clinging memory of my mother's death all those years ago. Almost shaking my grip on the need for revenge, too.
Revenge. It was inevitable. It had never crossed my mind to escape my responsibility, but I knew that even if I had tried I wouldn't have been able to do it. I breathed out, crisp memories flowing through my mind like a river. My father's happy face as he stepped onto the plane, sent out to war for the last time. My mother's sobs emitting from the bathroom, every night for a year. That man's face, suddenly part of my l--
"W-what happened?"
My train of thought was derailed by the voice. Shrill, afraid, it rang out through the area. Following the terrified whimpers, my hoof brushed against the body of another pony. A colt. Him. He shivered and shied away from my touch, but I grabbed him by the mane and brought his ear close to my mouth.
"Hello, Jericho." I whispered.
He didn't move an inch. I laughed a dry, humorless laugh into his ear. "Don't be afraid."
"Who are you?" He asked, voice weak and feeble and afraid.
"Well, it was quite a long time ago. You may not remember me; I was a child of three and you a lad of eighteen. But I remember you, and I will relate to you how our histories interweave"
♪ ♬ ♪ ♬ ♪ ♬
"Mama, who's he?" I stared up at you. You had a longer brown mane that fell to your chest, straight and brown like an oak tree. You never looked me in the eye.
"This is Jericho. He's my coltfriend, Joshua. He's very special to me." My mother, in all of her unending kindness and beauty, smiled at you. I treasured my mother's smiles, as they were very rare. You, however, took no note of her, and flicked your tail impatiently. I had bad feelings about you from the moment I had met you.
As time wore on you proved a debt-ridden drunken mess, leaving my mother a poor consumptive wretch.
The night you left us, my mother didn't cry. I thought it odd, I expected her to cry like she did when my father left for war and never came home. Another colt she loved, ripped away from her. It worried me, her lack of tears. I held her all night, we hugged close underneath our big patchwork blanket she had made from Father's old uniforms. Blue and green and grey and yellow mixed together. It made me think of the whole of Equestria, all the different kingdoms and lands. I wondered if maybe Father was still out exploring those lands.
The night you left us, you never really left. I was too young to understand, but you left us in huge debt. All of those bits wasted on beer and prostitutes. I could never understand the prostitutes bit, I mean, you had Mother for that sort of thing, didn't you? Never mind that, you left my mother and I in a bind. We barely had any money from the shitty job my mother had as a waitress for a two star restaurant, and all the money she did make went straight to bills and such. The only toy I had was a stuffed doll I name Fredrick. He was black with a white mane, and large, blue button eyes. I liked him because he had such rare colors for a pony, and it made him special.
Not too long after you left our home was taken away. We simply could not afford it, and the government whisked it out from underneath our hooves. That year, when Mother and I lived out on the streets, I think we both might have gone a bit batty.
On a beautiful day in spring my mother died. I was ten by then, I think. She held her hoof in mine as I bent over her on the park bench. It was very early in the morning, and she was too weak to move from the place she had slept in the night before. I tried my hardest to keep them back, but tears kept slipping down my muzzle and landing on her chest, leaving dark strains in her fur. Her voice was weak and scratchy, but I'll never forget her last words.
"Find him, bind him, tie him to a pole and break his fingers to splinters. Drag him to a hole until he wakes up, naked, clawing at the ceiling of his grave."
Fifteen long years later, I was hired by a priory. I cleaned and such, and they paid me well, but I made sure to never let my mind stray from revenge. It was what I lived on, the thought of one day see the life drain from your eyes.
One night I overheard the Prior exchanging words with a penitent whaler from the sea. The captain of his ship, who matched you toe to tip, was known for wanton cruelty.
I shipped to sea with a privateer the next day to find you, to kill you. The cool sea air felt good on my fur, blowing through my mane and cooling the hot sweat beading on my neck. I was excited and nervous as I sailed off into the ocean, smiling gently as the wind whispered softly into my ear;
"Find him, bind him, tie him to a pole and break his fingers to splinters. Drag him to a hole until he wakes up, naked, clawing at the ceiling of his grave. There is one thing I must say to you as you sail across the sea. Always, your mother will watch over you as you avenge this wicked deed."
Those words kept me going throughout the hardships at sea. I repeated them to myself at night, my heart aching for my lost mother. I saw her smiling face in my dreams, I heard the eerie sound of her sad singing in my ears at all times. She never left me, but I didn't mind. I liked having her around.
And then that fateful night, we had you in our sight after twenty months at sea. Your starboard flank abeam, I was getting my muskets clean, when came this rumbling from beneath. The ocean shook, the sky went black and the captain quailed. And before us grew the angry jaws of a giant whale.
It was an ocean of fear and panic, waves of terror crashing into me. It was horrible, and I only hoped my death would be quick, and you would die too.
♪ ♬ ♪ ♬ ♪ ♬
I grinned at him, feeling him quake in terror underneath my hooves. "Don't know how I survived, the crew all was chewed alive. I must have slipped between his teeth. But, oh! What providence! What divine intelligence! That you should survive as well as me."
Jericho's voice was weaker than before, barely more than a whisper. "What... what are you going to do to me?"
I laughed loud and long, throwing my head back. "Exactly what mother told me to do."
"It gives my heart great joy to see your eyes fill with fear. So lean in close and I will whisper the last words you'll hear..."
|
RubySpinel
|
1024
| 1 |
Fluttershy,Original Character,Pinkie Pie,Princess Celestia,Twilight Sparkle,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The Lost Equestria
|
A spaceship crashes in Equestria, bringing with it revelations that will change Equestria forever
|
incomplete
| 35 | 5 |
<p>"This is the scanner ship Verne of the research ship Romulus, requesting assistance. My ship is damaged and unable to fly. My coordinates are as follows: 17 hours, 45 minutes, 40 seconds right ascension, negative 29 degrees, zero minutes, 30 seconds declination.</p><p>The planet is uncolonized but populated by intelligent quadrapedal creatures. I have limited my contact with them as much as possible, but they are curious and some technological contamination was unavoidable.</p><p>There's something strange about this little planet, but I can't quite put my finger on it."</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-25T02:59:54+00:00
|
2011-09-25T02:59:54+00:00
| 2,708 |
My ship was going down.
My ship was going down, and I didn’t know why.
Usually, getting too close to a planet would just pull you into orbit if you weren’t careful, especially if was a large planet or you were a large ship.
This was a small planet, and I was a small ship.
My engines seized up right out of the jump, which left me drifting helplessly until I could get them back online. It was my fault I’d screwed up the jump calculations, and now I was paying for it.
Except then I passed way too close to this small planet, and now I was on a collision course and without engines to stop it.
The computer was flashing warning lights and helpfully displaying an altimeter that was rapidly approaching zero.
I wasn’t too worried about burning up in the atmosphere, as my ship was supposedly surface-ready, although it had probably never been on a planet before.
But as they say, it’s not the fall that kills you. It’s the sudden stop at the end.
I tried the controls again, but they were useless.
The ship’s outside temperature started rising as I entered the atmosphere. I was at an unfortunate angle of approach, and the ride was starting to get very bumpy. I checked my harness.
I passed over the sun line into the dark side of the planet.
There was a dull roaring sound from outside the ship. The computer told me that the atmosphere was a breathable mix, and the temperature near the ground was balmy. It was a small comfort that if I survived the impact, I wouldn’t die from oxygen deprivation.
The planet was dark, so much that I could only rely on the altimeter to tell me how far from the ground I was.
Panicked, I did whatever I could to slow the decent. I’d never landed a ship on a planet before. I pulled the flaps on the wings, engaged the landing gear, but it didn’t make a difference.
There was a loud crack as I hit something. The ship started to spin. I didn’t even have time to be nauseous before hitting the ground.
I woke up, very unwillingly, to tapping on the cockpit. My harness and helmet saved me from death, but there was blood on my visor and it felt like my collarbone was broken. The tapping continued and I looked up to the cockpit windows, but it was too dark to see anything.
I removed my helmet, and wiped the blood off my face. The computer was rebooting from the crash, so I wasn’t able to send a distress signal or get any further information about the planet besides “habitable”.
The banging got louder. It wasn’t the wind.
I undid my harness and grabbed my helmet to use against whatever was out there. I very carefully got into a crouch on the seat and moved my injured hand to the canopy release. The opening would push back whatever was on top of it, and I could get in a good swing with my helmet.
I pulled the release, and the canopy popped open. I swung wildly at the opening.
I hit nothing. Plant matter drifted into the cockpit.
I looked around for the cause of the banging.
I could make out a vague shape on the wing. It turned its head and the moonlight reflected off of its gigantic eyes.
I kept my helmet at ready. I didn’t know whether it was dangerous or curious.
It looked at me for a moment, before making a terrible high-pitched laughing sound. What sounded like laughter could the creature calling its pack.
I slowly stepped out of the cockpit onto the wing opposite the creature. I watched carefully to make sure I didn’t trigger it to attack. It had stopped its terrible laughing and was staring again.
I took another step away.
The whole ship shifted with my weight and I lost my balance. I dropped my helmet to grab hold of the lip of the cockpit. The creature’s claws scraped against the wing as it tried to stay on.
It was coming for me.
It wasn’t moving threateningly, more curiously. It was possible it knew I was injured and was biding its time.
I backed away further, but this time it was ready for the shift and didn’t break stride. The ship groaned distressingly.
It stopped at the edge of the cockpit and tilted its head to the side. “Hi!” It sounded like it said.
If I jumped down, I could get a rock or something and chase it away. Maybe grab one of the fallen branches.
And then what? I thought. I couldn’t even begin to find a place to hide. The ship wouldn’t be safe, not from a hungry pack. And they would certainly outrun me.
I was going to die like in one of those scary stories they tell children to prevent this exact thing from happening.
My pounding heart was making my head pound. I glanced off the side of the wing. I knew it wasn’t a far drop, but it looked endless in the darkness.
“Hi!” The creature said again. It stretched its neck over the gap to look at me closer. Blood was oozing into my eye but I couldn’t wipe it away.
“Helloooo?” I heard from the ground and quickly looked around for the sound.
The pink one had called its pack. I was rapidly running out of options. Run or fight.
“Up here!” The creature on the wing said.
It was speaking Common.
How was it speaking Common? There were animals that could mimic speech. Maybe I talked in my sleep and it heard me. Maybe I was hearing things.
“What is this? What’s going on?” The other one said. Or maybe a third. I couldn’t tell anymore.
I had to get away.
I dropped off the wing and landed very badly. My ankle gave way when I tried to stand up. I heard the creature drop from the ship and it gave me all the incentive to get up and run.
I was surrounded by trees that I could barely see. But I ran on, tripping over them and getting caught in the branches.
I could hear the creatures gaining on me.
Something grabbed my leg and I screamed. I yanked my foot hard to get free and fell into a tree, knocking myself out.
|
RubySpinel
|
1024
| 2 |
Fluttershy,Original Character,Pinkie Pie,Princess Celestia,Twilight Sparkle,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The Lost Equestria
|
A spaceship crashes in Equestria, bringing with it revelations that will change Equestria forever
|
incomplete
| 35 | 5 |
<p>"This is the scanner ship Verne of the research ship Romulus, requesting assistance. My ship is damaged and unable to fly. My coordinates are as follows: 17 hours, 45 minutes, 40 seconds right ascension, negative 29 degrees, zero minutes, 30 seconds declination.</p><p>The planet is uncolonized but populated by intelligent quadrapedal creatures. I have limited my contact with them as much as possible, but they are curious and some technological contamination was unavoidable.</p><p>There's something strange about this little planet, but I can't quite put my finger on it."</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-25T03:06:10+00:00
|
2011-09-25T03:06:10+00:00
| 2,370 |
I woke up somewhere very warm and comfortable, and my first thought was that the crash had all been a dream and I was back aboard the Romulus after a very uneventful journey. I didn’t want to get up and report for duty, I wanted to stay curled up around this warm pillow.
There was also someone walking around which was strange because I lived alone. I didn’t matter as long as I could stay in this nice haze of almost-asleep.
The footsteps multiplied and then there was whispered talking and it pulled me awake.
I opened my eyes and blinked a few times at the bright sunshine coming in through the windows. There was a four-legged purple creature staring at me with gigantic eyes. It took a couple of steps back.
I was sure it was one of the creatures from last night, although it didn’t look so threatening up close and it daylight.
“Oh. Hi.” It said. “Are you okay now? Do you understand me?”
I nodded as best as I could. My mouth was too dry to speak.
“Where did you come from? Did you fall out of the sky? Are you a shooting star?”
I shook my head. I couldn’t answer any of its questions. It was a serious crime to interfere with developing cultures more than necessary.
My ship. The computer would be rebooted and I had to get back to send a distress signal. Tell the Romulus what’s going on.
I tried to get up but it was so much harder than I thought it would be.
“No no no no no, don’t move!” Another creature appeared, brushing past the purple creature and putting up a paw to stop me. More like a hoof. This new creature had wings like a bird folded against its sides.
“I have to get back to my ship,” I explained, before I realized I was giving away information I shouldn’t.
“What’s a ship?” The purple creature asked.
“Please, Twilight, it needs to rest. You can talk to it later.” The winged creature told the purple one.
“Oh. Right. I should get back to my research anyway.”
Twilight looked at me longingly for a moment and then left the room.
“Now, are you hungry? Do you think you could keep some soup down?” The winged one asked me.
I was hungry, but there was no guarantee the soup would even be edible to me. Not to mention that there could be any number of toxins or bacteria that were harmless to these creatures but would kill me. I couldn’t explain, so I just shook my head.
“Um, okay.” It looked up at the ceiling for something to say. “You know, none of the animals I take care of can talk back, so this is really nice. Well, now. Now that you’re awake it’s really nice.” It paused awkwardly. “Are you sure you’re not hungry?”
“I don’t think I can eat the same food as you.”
“Oh. I didn’t think of that. Are you a carnivore? Because I can, uh, ask if maybe Owl can share some of whatever he eats.” Then, it added very quietly, “Um, as long as you won’t eat it in front of me.” It backed away slightly, like maybe I would tell it I preferred to eat it.
“No, I can’t.”
“Okay. I’m still going to bring you a bowl, okay? In case you change your mind.”
It left the room and I could hear it banging around behind the wall.
I sat up carefully. I dropped the heated pillow and regretted losing the warmth on my shoulder.
I checked myself over. The cut on my head was bandaged, but I’d have to find something to make a sling for my injured arm. Everything else ached, but I would live.
I had to get back to my ship and send the distress signal. I didn’t know how far away or in what direction it was. I could’ve been out for days and be half the planet away by now. I’d still have to try.
The creature returned, expertly balancing the bowl of soup on a tray held in its mouth. It set it down on a table near me. It smelled edible and delicious, but I’d have to ignore my hunger.
“You should be lying down.” It said. “Here, I’ll fix your pillow.” It grabbed the pillow with its front hooves and fluffed it. It was impressed by the way it managed without any hands.
“I have to get to my ship.” I repeated. “Will you take me there?”
It considered this for a moment. “If there’s something you need from your, uh, ship, I’m sure I can get it for you.”
At least I knew now that it was close by. “No.” If the creature wouldn’t help, I’d have to find it on my own.
I got up to my knees and the slowly stood up. I swayed only a little. My head almost reached the ceiling of the room, which I thought was odd since the creatures barely came up to my hip.
“Please, don’t!” The creature squeaked. It reared up to stop me, using its small wings for balance.
It didn’t stop me, though. I found the door and opened it and stepped outside.
The overwhelming sight of being planetside hit me and for a moment all I could do was stare. There were plants everywhere, and it was difficult to accept that the ground continued forever. The sky was couldn’t be touched and the sun was so bright that it blocked out the stars.
I looked around for some idea of where my ship was. It was incredibly disorienting to see the distance that I did. I looked for trees and found the arboretum where I must have crashed off to the left.
I started off in that direction.
The creature followed me. “You should be resting!” It said, having no difficulty keeping up.
It jumped in front of me and blocked my path. “No. You are not well and you need to go back.” It said firmly. It would have been endearing if I wasn’t so worried about getting to my ship. I stepped around it.
It wasn’t a long walk, but it drained me. The creature was right and I should be resting, but this was far more important. It objected quietly the entire way, but didn’t try to stop me again.
My ship was right where I left it. I was so happy to see it again that I almost cried.
The tiredness I felt before was gone. I could send a distress signal.
I looked around for my helmet, which was necessary to interface with the ship’s computer. I remembered dropping it, but I didn’t remember where.
The creature found it first and peered curiously into it.
It still had my blood covering the visor, but I got most of it off with my sleeve.
I slipped my helmet on and the display came up immediately.
There was a yelp from the cockpit and then a purple head appeared. The purple creature was in my ship. It looked at me embarrassed.
“Get out of my ship!”
Twilight climbed out of the cockpit. “I’m sorry. I know I should’ve asked for permission. I just…” It trailed off.
“Out!” It jumped off the wing and stepped away from the ship.
I climbed up into the cockpit to see what it had messed up. There were several dirty hoofprints on the seat, but otherwise nothing was out of place. The computer synching up with the helmet must’ve been what startled it.
It was still waiting by the ship with the winged creature. I ignored it and brought up the computer.
It was difficult to operate with just one hand, but the AI quickly compensated. I had rough coordinates for where I was. With a sinking feeling, I confirmed I was in a forbidden zone, a place where undeveloped systems were protected from outside influence. Being on an undeveloped planet was bad enough, being on a forbidden planet meant that I could face prison time. If only I hadn’t messed up the coordinates.
I sent the distress signal to the nearest relay station. I had no hope of fixing the ship myself and pretending like this never happened. I’d have to wait for a ship to come rescue me and possibly cause more trauma to the locals on the planet. I was going to lose my rank and position over this.
The message would take a few hours to reach the relay station and come back with a reply. There was nothing, by necessity, in the forbidden zones, so my long-range communications were useless. I’d have to communicate by relay or short-range when a ship got close.
I sent another message via relay to the Romulus, explaining the situation.
I took out the first aid kit and opened a pain pack. I slid it under my shirt to where it felt like my collarbone was broken. The relief was almost instantaneous. I’d still have to put my arm in a sling so I didn’t damage it further, but every move would no longer be in agony. I put a couple of more packs in my pocket for later.
I pulled out an energy bar from storage and unwrapped it. It was supposed to taste like a gourmet meal, but they all tasted bland to me. It didn’t matter. I was hungry enough that I ate the whole thing in a few bites.
I ran a systems check on the ship. I knew the engines were gone, but if the hull was still intact, I could be towed instead of having to have a landing party bring my ship back up. It was much faster and had less impact.
I was also worried about all of the scanning equipment lodged in the gunner’s seat. It was sensitive and expensive, and would be near impossible to replace.
It would be just my luck that the hull was breached and my equipment was junk.
I was so happy to find out I was wrong.
I grabbed a second set of clothes and more energy bars. With the delay between messages and the distance to any ships, I’d still have to spend a few more days on the planet and I didn’t want to do it in the cockpit.
There was nothing sling-like to wrap my arm in, so I used another jacket. It looked ridiculous, but it worked.
I climbed out of the ship to find the winged creature sitting angrily on the ground.
“You were very mean to Twilight and you should apologize. She is very upset.”
“She should not have been in my ship.” If I had to be mean to these creatures to protect them, then I would be.
“She already apologized. You didn’t have to yell at her.”
The creature was right. I should not have yelled at her, especially when I was going to have to spend a few days here anyway. She was just curious, like a child.
“I’m sorry.”
“It’s Twilight you should apologize to.” She got up and came to stand beside me. “Now, you’ve seen your ship. It’s time for you to rest.”
It was difficult to argue.
The walk back was harder than the walk up and I had to sit down about halfway. The creature was all over me then, mumbling to itself about how it never should have let me come.
The creature took my pack from me and looped it over its head. It spread its wings to balance it on its back. I tried to take it back because it was obviously heavy for the small creature, but it wouldn’t let me.
“I have it. You shouldn’t carry heavy things.”
We walked the rest of the way, with the creature walking slow and unsteady.
It dropped my pack right inside the door and nudged me back towards the bed it had made on the floor for me.
The purple creature, Twilight stuck her head out of a side door tentatively. She saw me and pulled her head back instantly.
“Wait.” I said. The head came back.
“I’m so sorry. I won’t touch it again.”
“I shouldn’t have yelled at you. I’m sorry for that.”
The winged creature looked very satisfied.
Twilight came over and leaned her head against my leg. I wasn’t sure why she did, but I patted her head gingerly like I would a pet.
The winged creature came over and picked up the heated pillow with her mouth. “I’ll go refill this for you.” She said through gritted teeth. She went into the other room and I heard the sound of water running.
Twilight watched her leave.
“So, your ship, does it take you places?”
“I can’t-”
“I know, but it’s a ship, right? That’s what ships do.” It was obvious that she had already figured something out. “But ships sail on water, and you weren’t near a lake when we found you. And then there were all the trees and burned grass.”
The water shut off. Twilight glanced back. “You fell from the sky.” She said quickly and stepped away from me as the other creature came back.
She dropped the pillow in my lap. “All warm,” she said.
“I’ll, uh, come back later.” Twilight said. She eyed my helmet hungrily and then left.
The winged creature hummed as it adjusted the bed. It was glad to have me back safe in its care.
I lay down on the bed, cuddling the warm pillow to my chest. I was asleep almost instantly.
I woke up groggy and disoriented. It was dark out. The winged creature was asleep on a sofa, with its back leg hanging off the edge and an opened wing draped over it.
I checked my helmet to see if any messages came back from the relay station, but it said it was out of range. I’d have to get closer to the ship to check.
I sat up and replaced the pack on my collarbone. It was throbbing again and the warm pillow had gone cold a while ago.
I got up quietly so I wouldn’t wake the creature. I made my way over to the door and set down my helmet so I could open it. I opened it slowly and carefully, but it squeaked loudly before it was open enough.
The creature rolled over on the couch, still asleep.
I picked up my helmet and shut the door. It was silent this time.
It was still very dark out, and I didn’t have a light. I remembered the direction my ship was in, though, and I also recalled that the path there was pretty clear.
It was peacefully quiet out here. There was always background noise on ships, no matter where you were. It was strange. I always thought that the molten cores of planets would make noise, similar to the engine noise on ships.
I checked my helmet every once in a while to see if it had reestablished a connection. I got more and more worried as I went on that I didn’t know where I was going. The dark was making it impossible to see any landmarks that I remembered from the path before.
And then I saw it, the hole in the trees and the scorched path where my ship crashed.
But my ship was gone.
|
RubySpinel
|
1024
| 3 |
Fluttershy,Original Character,Pinkie Pie,Princess Celestia,Twilight Sparkle,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The Lost Equestria
|
A spaceship crashes in Equestria, bringing with it revelations that will change Equestria forever
|
incomplete
| 35 | 5 |
<p>"This is the scanner ship Verne of the research ship Romulus, requesting assistance. My ship is damaged and unable to fly. My coordinates are as follows: 17 hours, 45 minutes, 40 seconds right ascension, negative 29 degrees, zero minutes, 30 seconds declination.</p><p>The planet is uncolonized but populated by intelligent quadrapedal creatures. I have limited my contact with them as much as possible, but they are curious and some technological contamination was unavoidable.</p><p>There's something strange about this little planet, but I can't quite put my finger on it."</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-25T03:11:42+00:00
|
2011-09-25T03:11:42+00:00
| 2,276 |
It was gone.
I dropped my helmet and ran to the empty space to look for clues. Did a passing ship see it and take it without looking for me? No. No. They would have scanned the area for me. Even if they thought I was already dead.
I should have waited by the ship for a reply.
There were tracks everywhere, but Twilight and the other creatures had been stomping all over the area.
What if the creatures took it?
It was ridiculous that the creatures could have taken it, but they were the only ones who knew about the crash.
I practically ran back to the creature’s room, not caring if the squeaking door woke it up.
I shook it awake and it blinked at me sleepily. “What’s going on?”
“My ship is gone.”
“What? Gone where?” It rubbed its eyes with a hoof. It was not grasping the severity of the situation.
“Where’s Twilight?”
“She’s at the library but it’s really late. You can talk to her in the morning.”
“No, take me to her now.”
“If you-”
“Now!”
It made a squeaking sound and nodded.
We left in the opposite direction of the crash site. The creature had no trouble navigating in the darkness, which was helpful because I couldn’t see very well at all.
The path changed from dirt into flat rocks, and I could make out the shape of darkened rooms on either side of the path. The creature was leading us towards a large tree that had rooms set in the branches.
“I’m sure Twilight knows nothing about this,” the creature said quietly.
I knocked hard on the door in the tree. There was no answer and I tried the knob. It was unlocked.
“You shouldn’t go in-” the creature mumbled, but it was too late for objections.
I was surprised that this room was much bigger than the other creature’s. There were stacks of boxes everywhere and boxes lined up on shelves in the walls.
Twilight was not here. There were stairs, but they looked small and I was unsure if they would support my weight.
“Twilight!” I called out. There was no reply, so I called her again, louder.
She appeared at the top of the stairs.
“What? What is this?”
“My ship is gone.”
“What? How?” She said, surprised. I couldn’t tell if she was faking it.
“Who else knew about it?” I demanded of her.
“I don’t know why-”
“Who else?!”
“No one! Just me and Fluttershy”-she nodded to the winged pony cowering by the door-“and Pinkie and Princess Celestia. And none of them could have taken it.”
There were way too many names on that list. “Who are Pinkie and Celestia?”
“Pinkie was the other pony there when we found you. And Princess Celestia is my teacher.”
“Why would you tell her? Where is she?”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t know. I tell her everything. She’s all the way in Canterlot. She wouldn’t take your ship. No one could have. It was way too big.” Her voice was shaking and I could see she really didn’t know what happened.
This was getting me nowhere. I left the room.
I sat on the steps outside of the door and put my head in my hand. I felt a headache coming on.
There was very expensive, very classified scanning equipment in my ship. The scientists at McLaughlin Mining spent years developing that equipment, and now it was lost. Or worse, some passing ship did take it and knew what it was. I was going to go to prison over this.
It wasn’t just the scanning equipment, either. The idea of the creatures taking apart my ship and trying to figure out how to make it work was horrifying. Advanced technology could change even these small, simple creatures.
There was once a race called the Ohs. An alien ship crashed on their planet, killing the pilot. It took them nearly a century, but they fixed the ship and mimicked the technology. Their entire population took to the stars, searching for other intelligent life.
The once peaceful Ohs were psychics and built their entire civilization on the sharing of knowledge. When other races refused to share their knowledge with the Ohs terms, they took it by force.
Two hundred years from the original crash, they became a big enough threat for the Alliance to declare that there would never be peace, and that the Ohs should be wiped out for the good of us all.
Two hundred and twenty five years from the original crash, and the Ohs were gone.
If I hadn’t screwed up those jump coordinates, none of this would have happened.
I got up and started walking back to the crash site. It was still too dark to look for clues, but I had nowhere else to go.
It was a difficult walk just to the end of the rocky path. I was tired, physically, and mentally I was just tired of being tired and in pain. But getting my ship back was far more important than how I felt.
I took a few moments to breathe before going down the dirt path that would take me to the crash site.
“Wait! Wait!” I heard Twilight call out from behind me as she ran to catch up to me. She walked beside me but stayed much further away than she would have before. She was scared of me.
“I don’t…I don’t know who took your ship,” she panted. “But I’ll help you find it.”
“How are you going to do that?”
“There has to be some evidence left behind. Like tracks. Or hoofprints. And we’ll ask the other ponies in the morning if they saw anything.”
“No! You can’t tell anyone else about the ship. Or about me.”
“If they saw what took your ship then I’m not really telling them anything they don’t already know.”
“No!” She flinched at my anger. I was tired of explaining that she couldn’t let anyone know about me.
She stopped walking. “I’m just trying to help! You’re the first outsider I’ve ever seen and you’re probably the most important thing to ever happen to Equestria. But you won’t tell me anything and you won’t tell me why and all you do is yell at us and demand things and you can find your own stupid ship by yourself!” She turned and ran, leaving me all alone on the path.
I felt a little bad about it, but I knew that in the long run, it was better this way.
I continued down the path to the crash site, stumbling over the uneven dirt that Twilight was no longer leading me around.
I was disappointed all over again to see the empty crash site. Maybe I was hoping that my ship would magically appear with a message from a rescue ship. I picked up my dropped helmet to find that it still had no connection to the ship.
I walked around the site again. Close to the ship it was dirt and tracks showed up, but further out it was plants and I couldn’t find them. My second time around was just as useless. I kicked a rock in frustration and watched as it bounced into the night.
I sat down in the dirt and put my head down on my knees. I couldn’t stop the tears even if I wanted to.
I was so angry at myself and whoever took my ship. If I had just stayed with my ship. If I had just gotten the coordinates right. If I just hadn’t put off the assignment to spend another night on Bethlehem Station. If I had just passed my flight training and become a military pilot like my grandfather.
When I picked my head up to wipe my dry, sticky eyes, I saw the sky getting lighter over the path that led from the crash site. I thought for a moment that my eyes were just getting used to the dark before I realized that I was on a planet.
It was the sun rising.
I’d always heard stories of sunrises. I’ve heard stories of battle-hardened soldiers weeping and of the blind seeing for the first time. Some people say that you can make a wish on a sunrise and it will come true.
I didn’t really believe the stories, but it was hard not thinking about them as the first few rays of sunlight came over the hill. The black sky turned grey. The sun came shortly after, deep red and orange, touching the plants and trees with an eerie light. I could feel the rush of warmth on my face.
The sky turned purple, then blue as the sun rose higher and higher. The world came alive as animals screeched and chirped in the trees.
And then it was over. Quietly, like the sun was embarrassed of the majesty it had just unfolded.
I’d spent the night crying and angry, but I was done now. The sun rose, bringing with it the possibility of finding my ship and leaving this planet.
I got up and brushed the dirt from my flightsuit. I walked around the crash site once again, but even with the sun up I couldn’t tell what was evidence and what was a feature of the crash. There were deep grooves where my ship imbedded itself in the dirt. Were they longer than they were before, suggesting some moving equipment? I could pick out the defined prints of my boots in the dirt and the soft prints of the creatures. Were there more than there should have been?
I just couldn’t tell.
“Heeey!” I heard shouted from the top of the hill. I turned to find a pink creature running down the hill towards me.
“Didn’t’cha hear the horns? C’mon!” It stopped in front of me, shifting its feet and bobbing insistently.
I had no idea what it was trying to say. I wasn’t sure, either, if I wanted to deal with anymore creatures after last night.
“What?”
“The horns.” It emphasized, like I should know what they were. “Princess Celestia is here!”
|
RubySpinel
|
1024
| 4 |
Fluttershy,Original Character,Pinkie Pie,Princess Celestia,Twilight Sparkle,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The Lost Equestria
|
A spaceship crashes in Equestria, bringing with it revelations that will change Equestria forever
|
incomplete
| 35 | 5 |
<p>"This is the scanner ship Verne of the research ship Romulus, requesting assistance. My ship is damaged and unable to fly. My coordinates are as follows: 17 hours, 45 minutes, 40 seconds right ascension, negative 29 degrees, zero minutes, 30 seconds declination.</p><p>The planet is uncolonized but populated by intelligent quadrapedal creatures. I have limited my contact with them as much as possible, but they are curious and some technological contamination was unavoidable.</p><p>There's something strange about this little planet, but I can't quite put my finger on it."</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-09-27T04:48:55+00:00
|
2011-09-27T04:48:55+00:00
| 2,402 |
“Twilight got a letter last night that Princess Celestia was coming first thing in the morning and she was soooo excited to meet you! And now she’s here.”
“No, I’m not going to meet her and Twilight should not have told anyone about me. Where is she?” Why was Twilight sending this other creature as a messenger?
“She’s doing princess stuff, y’know, with the Princess. But she asked me to bring you and she says that she’s not mad about last night. Although she’s still mad about last night. But she told me not to tell you that. Oh.”
“No. I’m not meeting anyone.” The pink creature was talking so fast that I couldn’t catch everything.
“But it’s the Princess. The Princess.”
And it hit me. Twilight didn’t just tell a couple of her friends about me, she’d told one of her leaders. A thousand sunrises wouldn’t fix the absolute panic I felt. It was too late.
No, no. I could still salvage this.
My ship was gone, so aside from the crash site and me, there was no evidence that I was here. The crash site could be explained away. Maybe a meteor or a volcano or whatever disaster planets had. I’d have to find somewhere to hide. They wouldn’t find me and Twilight and Fluttershy would just be dismissed as crazy.
But there was still the pink creature bouncing in front of me.
I briefly considered striking it with my helmet. Maybe knock it out or worse. It would give me enough time to run before anyone knew where I was going. I’d have to run into the trees, and then find somewhere to hide until I could locate my ship or a rescue ship came for me. It was not a good plan.
“You’re not moving.” The pink creature observed. Its ears swiveled backwards. “Oh, but that’s okay! The Princess came to meet you!”
In a moment, I could hear the sound of creatures coming up the path.
And then there was no choice.
The creature turned towards the noise and I swung with my helmet. I felt it connect and the creature went down. I took off towards the trees. With enough head start and the creature out long enough to not know where I went, I might just avoid this disaster.
“Mr. Johnson?! Where are you going?”
I stopped and turned towards the sound before I could even process the oddness.
There was a gigantic white creature standing on the hill, covered in golden jewelry. It started coming towards me, but all I could do was stare.
Twilight appeared behind what could only be Princess Celestia and rushed towards the pink creature. “Pinkie? What happened?” She said as she poked the pink creature with her hoof.
Princess Celestia turned her head curiously towards Pinkie, then back to me. I backed up into a tree.
“Mr. Johnson, why didn’t you—you’re not Mr. Johnson.” The creature said, confused, when it got closer. “Who are you?”
Recognition. That’s what was so odd. This was a primitive planet in the forbidden zone. I should’ve been the first human this creature had ever seen. But this was not its first contact.
How was that even possible? There would have been records somewhere if humans had been here. Ship trajectories are tracked, communications triangulated. You can’t just contact an uncontacted planet and have no one know about it.
The creature was right in front of me now. It towered over me, leaning down its head to keep eye contact. There was a long spike protruding from its head that hovered dangerously close to my face.
“Do you work with Mr. Johnson? Why didn’t you tell me you were coming?”
“I’m…not supposed to be here.”
“What do you mean?” The creature backed off a little, tilting its head, confused. “Are you running from something? Is it the war?”
“No. What war?”
“Mr. Johnson said that you humans were at war. He said when the war was over, humans would start coming again.”
We were always at war. Humans were so spread out that there were constant planetary disputes, uprisings, religious wars. But this planet was so far out of colonized space that it was absurd that this creature would even know about a human war, much less be involved with it.
“I don’t know what war you’re talking about. Humans don’t come here because it’s a forbidden zone.”
“What?! No, no. Twilight said you were injured and clearly you should be resting. We’ll go back to the castle and talk about this when you’re feeling better.”
I was a little irritated at the brush off, especially since I knew there was something else going on.
“Why did you-” I started, but was interrupted.
“No! I mean, we’ll talk about this later. It’s just a terrible mistake. Twilight!” She shouted back to her. “If you would please, go tell my escort to bring the carriage here and we’ll head straight back to Canterlot.”
Twilight bowed deeply. “Yes, Princess, but, um, what about Pinkie? I think she’s hurt and I can’t just leave-”
“I’m sure she will be fine, now go.”
“Yes, Princess.” Twilight bowed low again. She moved Pinkie’s head from where it was resting against her leg and set it gently into the grass. She ran back up the path.
“Don’t worry, we will get this all settled.” The Princess told me, lowering its spike to my eye level. I wasn’t sure, but it almost felt like a threat.
I had the feeling that I should have kept running.
“So, tell me, what happened after the crash? I was so busy I didn’t get Twilight’s letter until late last night.”
“Twilight and, I guess it was Pinkie, found—how did you know I crashed?”
“Princess Luna had your ship moved to our stable. I don’t know how she managed it, with the technology as old as it was.”
“My ship? You took my ship? Where is it?” I caught myself looking around frantically, even though it was obviously not here.
“It’s in our stable, in Canterlot. It’s not a model that I’ve seen before, so the repairs might be more difficult. But, oh, here’s the carriage. We’ll talk about this when we get to the castle.”
The carriage rumbled into sight over the hill. It was pulled by a team of creatures. Twilight came running up behind them.
“Let’s go,” the Princess said. She turned and walked gracefully to the carriage. She just assumed I would follow her, and she was right. She had my ship. This whole nightmare would be over if I could just get to it and know when the rescue ship would arrive.
As I passed by, Pinkie stood up uncertainly and said “Wait.”
“I’m really sorry I hit you.” I apologized.
She looked at me for a moment before kicking me hard in the shin. She turned away and walked unsteadily to Twilight. I definitely deserved that.
The carriage was open on the top, which made me a little agoraphobic. The Princess was already in the carriage and there was little room left for me. I was surprised, however, to find there was a built in bench in the back of the carriage, which the Princess would be unable to use.
“Back to the castle,” she ordered the creatures pulling the carriage. The circled the carriage back onto the path, and we headed off for the castle, and my ship.
|
RubySpinel
|
1024
| 5 |
Fluttershy,Original Character,Pinkie Pie,Princess Celestia,Twilight Sparkle,Adventure,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
|
The Lost Equestria
|
A spaceship crashes in Equestria, bringing with it revelations that will change Equestria forever
|
incomplete
| 35 | 5 |
<p>"This is the scanner ship Verne of the research ship Romulus, requesting assistance. My ship is damaged and unable to fly. My coordinates are as follows: 17 hours, 45 minutes, 40 seconds right ascension, negative 29 degrees, zero minutes, 30 seconds declination.</p><p>The planet is uncolonized but populated by intelligent quadrapedal creatures. I have limited my contact with them as much as possible, but they are curious and some technological contamination was unavoidable.</p><p>There's something strange about this little planet, but I can't quite put my finger on it."</p>
|
everyone
|
2011-10-27T04:38:36+00:00
|
2011-10-27T04:38:36+00:00
| 2,396 |
The path to the castle was long, so long that I was having trouble keeping my eyes open. Princess Celestia said little the whole way, she just kept looking back at me. Maybe she was worried I would fall out of the carriage.
I could see the castle on a hillside long before we arrived. The air got colder as we climbed the winding path up the hills.
No one greeted us at the castle entrance. Princess Celestia stepped out of the carriage and I followed.
“It’s been unnecessary to keep the staff as full as it once was,” Princess Celestia explained. “Of course, with more visitors coming, I’ll personally see to filling out our ranks.”
I wasn’t sure what she meant, but there were more pressing matters. “Where is my ship?”
“Are you sure you don’t want to rest, maybe have something to eat? The chef here isn’t Blueberry, but he’s quite good.”
“No, I just want to see my ship.” I insisted.
“Yes, of course.” I followed her through the halls of the castle, which were richly decorated with wall hangings and abstract art. There were stained-glass windows, done in the old handmade style.
She paused by a non-descript door to use a keypad—it was so out of place that I couldn’t comprehend it for a minute. I had seen no indications that the creatures possessed any electronic or computer technology at all, and here this creature was using a keypad—with a hoof, no less.
“Are you alright?” She asked. The door was already unlocked, and she was holding it open, waiting.
I descended the narrow stairwell behind the door, following the Princess. It was the standard grey paneling of access tubes that were everywhere on ships. The stairwell was obviously not meant for a creature of Celestia’s height. She had her head low and stepped carefully down the stairs.
We came to another door with another keypad. She pressed the combination and the door slid open. She ducked through the doorway and I followed.
It was a spaceport. It looked almost like every other spaceport I’d ever been in, but completely empty. Except for a ship whose model I’d never seen before, and my own ship.
Aside from the earlier damage it looked unharmed. It even had some of the leaves and dirt still stuck to it. I ran to it, pressing my cheek to the hull. I was so happy I didn’t care how stupid I looked hugging a ship.
I pulled on my helmet and climbed into the cockpit. There was a message.
There was a message!
There was a rescue ship coming for me. It was an Alliance troop transport that would take me back to the Hartwell spaceport. It would arrive in 50 standard hours. Counting from when the message arrived, it was more like 20 standard hours. I was lucky it was so close to where I’d made my initial jump. I was also incredibly lucky that it was even interested in picking me up.
I sent a reply message. Now all I had to do was wait for them to come. I took my helmet off and sighed in relief.
“We don’t have a mechanic at the moment, so I’m afraid that there’s not much we can do for your ship.” Princess Celestia stood just below the height of the wing and could look almost directly into the cockpit. It was a little unsettling.
“There’s a ship coming for me.” I was uncomfortable telling her this, even though it was clear I wasn’t going to contaminate her.
“Oh, excellent. Is Mr. Johnson going to be on the ship?”
“No. I don’t know a Mr. Johnson.”
She tilted her head, considering. “I suppose it has been a long time.” She sounded very uncertain.
The humans that were here before probably abandoned the planet if they didn’t find any resources worth exploiting, if they even spent the time to do the surveys.
I climbed out of the cockpit, watching Celestia watch me.
“But the time doesn’t matter, right?”
“NOOO!”
I turned towards the scream and saw a creature like a dark, smaller Celestia standing at the door to the port.
It charged at me so fast I couldn’t get away. I backed up against the ship. It was in my face, with her long, sharp spike hovering between my eyes. It bared its teeth. I was going to be impaled.
“No! NO!” It screamed at me.
“Luna, don’t--”
“No!” It whipped its head towards Celestia so fast that the spike nicked my forehead. “It doesn’t belong here! They abandoned us! They left us here all alone! We should just kill this one before anypony else sees it.”
“Luna, I know you’re upset, but it’s all going to be alright now. The humans are coming back, and we have to be there for them.”
“We don’t need them! We’re so much better off than we ever were before. I will not go back to groveling at their feet like a stupid pet!” It turned back to me, brandishing the spike again. “Are you going to enslave us again, human? Are you going to make us worship the ground you walk on, only to leave us again when we become too much of a financial burden?”
“I don’t…” I swallowed and tried to sound as convincing as I could, “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I don’t want to enslave you.”
“Luna, please. We weren’t slaves, you know we weren’t. You know that the love you had for Ms. Patel was--”
“No! Don’t you ever bring up that name!” Luna lunged at Celestia with its spike, but Celestia countered with her own.
I looked for a way to escape or hide. I could get in my ship and close the canopy, but if the creatures could operate a keypad they could definitely pop the latch. I could make a run for the door, but Luna could definitely outrun me. The only plan I had was to slowly inch away and hope that Luna was too occupied to notice me.
“Open your eyes, Celestia! We’ve lived far too long in the shadow of the humans. It’s better if…” it sniffled and I could see tears forming in its eyes. “…If we just forget about them. If we kill this one and pretend like it was never here. They’re only going to disappoint us again.” It sniffled again and the tears started. “We waited so long, Celestia.” It dropped its head, shaking with tears. Celestia put her head against Luna’s.
“It’s alright. It’s alright. It won’t be like last time.”
It stepped away from Celestia. “It better not be.” It turned towards me, lowering its head threateningly. “Will it?”
“No.” I said, but I honestly had no idea. Indentured races still existed, but you didn’t fill an entire planet with indentured creatures. You engineered them on-site in only the amount you needed. And you never, ever culled them from existing species. That was just wrong.
Luna left the port slowly, keeping an eye on me until passing through the door back into the castle.
“I’m so sorry about that.” Celestia apologized. “It’s just been such a long time, and she spent a long time looking for you after you left.”
“How long?”
She thought for a moment. “Oh, it’s probably been close to a thousand years.”
“A thousand years?!” The number was staggering. It had to be a mistake. She had to be using a different measurement.
“It wasn’t all at once, though. She’d leave for 50 or 60 years at a time.”
“A thousand Tiffer-Standard years?” I asked again. She had to be confused.
“A thousand Earth years. I don’t know of ‘Tiffer-Standard’.”
Likewise, I’d never heard of an Earth year, or knew how long it would be. It was still impossible. Nothing lived for a thousand years.
“You waited for a thousand years?”
“Of course. Mr. Johnson said that humans would return after the war, and that we should wait and maintain until you returned.”
“What war?”
“Surely you know?” She said it like I was playing dumb. When I shook my head, she elaborated. “With the Esses. They attacked Vox when they wouldn’t convert to their religion. The last I heard was that the humans had lost Vox and were mounting an invasion force to recapture it.”
I had never heard of this war, or the planet Vox. It was difficult to accept that she might be telling the truth and had really live a thousand years.
“But that’s all over with, right? You’ve won the war?”
“I don’t know what happened. I’ve never heard of this.”
She was shocked. “No, you have to know. That’s why you’re here, isn’t it? Because the war is over, and humans are coming back.”
“No, I told you that I’m not supposed to be here. My ship crashed by accident and I didn’t even know that humans had ever been on this planet. I’m sorry.”
“No. No. You must be confused. The war is over, so you came here to re-open us. You must’ve just forgotten.” She was sounding a little hysterical now and I considered just going along with her story before she took Luna’s advice.
“The war…it probably happened before I was born. And I was never really good with history.”
“Yes. That must be it. And, oh, I’ve forgotten how tired you must be. Let me show you to your room. We can talk all about the re-opening once you’ve had some time to rest.”
“Uh, right.” It was worth it to just play along with her. In twenty hours I would be gone.
She led me back up the stairs, looking back at me a few times despite the cramped space.
There was a curious creature covered in metal plates waiting in the hallway. It made a strangles screaming sound before taking off in the other direction.
“They will all get used to humans soon enough.” Celestia reassured me as she led me through the castle hallways.
We stopped in front of a door. “Please, make yourself at home. I’ll put someone outside your door if you need anything.”
“Thanks.”
She waited for me to go in, like she was worried I would bolt as soon as she turned away. I went in and shut the door behind me. I waited for the sound of her footsteps to go away.
The room was lavishly decorated, like a high-end hotel or spa. There wasn’t a bed or even a pillow bed like at Fluttershy’s, but there was a couch. I settled down on it, tucking a pillow under my head.
In twenty hours I would be rescued.
|
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