My Little Pony: The Next Generation

A role-play Started By Raider~joseph and (at least by 6/4/2012) Added to by Bio_Plus, Zeldafan2, TopazRaven, Diamond Dragon, rocklobster, Derek_Is_Me, Brizee-Chan and SincerelyAnonymous Raider~joseph RPed the characters Forge, Beak, Twilight, Spike and major plot moving characters such as Villans. Bio_Plus RPed the characters Scootaloo, Rainbow Dash and Princess Celestia Zeldafan2 RPed the characters Cherry and Pinkie Pie TopazRaven RPed the characters Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy, Rarity, Peppermint and Chocolate Pretzel Diamond Dragon RPed the characters Applebloom, Applejack, Galaxy, SkyCall and WildGale Rocklobster RPed the characters Gumshoe and Punky Derek _Is_Me RPed the character Purifus Brizee-Chan RPed the character Latte Love (not included in this story) SincerelyAnonymous RPed the character Applebloom in the beginning but had to leave RP Most others characters were given freedom of control over by the mass meaning anyone who needed said character could control him/her as needed. COMPLETE CREDIT TO RAIDER AND THE WHOLE TEAM FOR THIS WHOLE THING I JUST LIKE IT ENOUGH TO CONVERT IT INTO SHORT STORY FORMAT BUT THEY CAME UP WITH ALL THE CONTENT I CLAIM NOTHING.

Chapter 2: The Hobo that Cried Cloud "I FOUND IT! HERMIT'S HAVEN!" Said a ragged barely able to walk old colt. "HERMITS HAVEN! AND THE BEACH AT THE END OF THE WORLD! The ancient beach where the cave that allows immortality is?" The coot grabbed Forge's face. "YES! AND... I saw the red clouds..."He ran away screaming. Galaxy almost fell out of the tree when the crazy old pony started yelling about Hermit's Haven, and red clouds. She was completely clueless about it, and stared after him as he disappeared into another part of Ponyville. What was that about? "The red clouds...He is gonna get his FLANK handed by half the town to him. Who would joke about that? Beak nodded. "Inconsiderate jerk." Forge walked away and saw a new store selling sweets. "Maybe free samples?" He thought walking in. He trotted over to the front desk and interrupted. "I'm begging you do you have free samples?" Chocolate Pretzel had been rather pleased when he saw how many ponies had come into the store. Really he hadn't expected it and was perhaps being a little too enthusiastic. He was quite a bit taller than some of the other ponies here, though certainly not as tall as the princess'. Once he saw Ash come in he was quick to trot over and greet him as he'd done with every customer thus far. "HELLO!" He paused for a moment, the combination of his height and uh...'enthrallment' had scared a few ponies away by now. He reminded himself to tone it down a bit. "U-um, I mean, hello. Welcome, can I help you with anything?" He asked more quietly. Hello Sir, you must be the owner, Chocolate Pretzel. Are you new in Ponyville? I'm from the palace on official business and I was wondering if you could tell me how the atmosphere has been in town lately, are the residents well? Ash asked in his official tone of voice. Wow, a real palace official! Chocolate Pretzel thought to himself. "Oh yes, I'm new. Or...perhaps not, I've lived here a few months now. I would think...the residents are doing much better since the storm but... not everything is quite normal yet. I've noticed most of the ponies here are still quite disturbed by those ponies that disappeared four months ago. The former holders of the elements of harmony. I'm sure you know who I'm..." He didn't get a chance to finish as a new pony came into the store, apparently pleading for a free sample. "Ugh, certainly. If you would please wait a moment though I'm speaking to an official from the palace. Go take a look and see what you'd like while you're waiting," he suggested gently. "That worked."He said with childlike wonder in his eyes. He saw a piece of fudge and his eyes lit up just as he was about to say that was what he wanted the crazy old colt ran in. "I FOUND HERMIT'S HAVEN!"He yelled. "No you didn't!"Forge said. He could take no more of this. "IF YOU DID...YOU WOULDN'T HAVE SEEN THOSE RED CLOUDS!" Forge said getting in the old colt's face. "But...I have PROOF."He said as he took out a camera and showed everyone a color picture of a beach with a rocky spire and out of a hole in the top leaked red clouds

shooting lightning. "See! Red clouds!" Forge took some steps back knocking over a chair. "See! I tolds ya! A red cloud! Full of wrath aplenty!" Said the coot with a satisfied smile. Forge said nothing...then left the shop without a word. The coot left raving about Hermit's Haven. Forge took a LONG walk home then sat on his bed. "The red cloud's live in Hermit's Haven... " Beak was relieved to hear Forge talking."Yeah it would seem but The Obstocol Jungle is 4 days away on foot...and dangerous. Dude ponies DIE in that place. Cannibal Lizardmen, hazardous terrain, the local fauna and even the flora! Youre not gonna go R for Revenge on these clouds? That guy had way too much cider to drink if you ask me. He had a PICTURE and I still don't believe him." "I would need help."He said. "Someone with survival skills. Who could defend themselves." Forge said trying to think. "Oh Celestia...you do realize who the only pony like that is right?" Said Forge with his head in his hoof. Beak started laughing like crazy. "SHES YOUR MORTAL ENEMY! SHE HATES YOUR GUTS! YOU BEAT HER UP TRI WEEKLY! YOU HAVE LOST IT IF YOU THINK SHE IS...HEY!" Forge grabbed the bag of apples."Come on...we gotta find that old coot. Then we gotta find Applebloom." He dashed out the door. Chocolate Pretzel jumped, mildly startled when the older pony came in shouting about something to do with red clouds. He was apparently catching a lot of attention as the other ponies in the store turned to stare at him in alarm. Oh, what was going on now! He noted Forge leaving and was about to call after him, but it seemed too late for that now as he'd already gone. "Hey! You still got that picture?" Forge said to the old colt. "Yes? Why?" He replied. "Come with me and be quiet, theres someone I need you to talk to." He led him to the acres and they snuck around the orchard where they found Applebloom and her friends talking to someone. "Well these apples look mighty tasty." Said the old coot as he rather noisily as he hit a tree causing one to fall. He ate it while Forge realized what it looked like he was doing. "You might wanna move Im about to get jumped. And beat.... preeetty badly too." Beak flew into a tree. "pssh...you could take em." He said. Then Applebloom suddenly noticed Forge was back, and this time he had an old pony with him. "FORGE! For the last time, get out!" She yelled, galloping towards them at full speed. "This is exactly what it looks like!"Said the coot for no reason. Forge just yelled at him to shut up. He was like right next to the four. So these ponies must fight for their territories too. thought WildGale. In a flash she was galloping past Applebloom. She charged right at Forge, and locked her antlers onto Forge's unicorn horn, and with a downward pull of her head, she flipped him onto his side. Applebloom galloped up. "Now I'm not gonna say this again Forge. GET. OUT. And your two accomplices too!" "Um...listen Im not here to..." The impact was heard by all the nearby birds causing them to fly away...except for the crows...they came to see bloodshed. This was the women he had spent years beating up. Pinning him down. This was it...he was gonna die. "Im glad it was you." He said aloud then closed his eyes and waited for it. "Does this mean I don't need to show her the photo of the red clouds?" Said the

coot. WildGale stood over Forge, glaring at him. Applebloom stopped dead then whipped around to face the elderly pony. "What did you say?!" "Its in a place called "The Beach at the End of the World." It was in the spire called Hermit's Haven. Every hobo knows this legend. In the Obstocol Jungle there a beach with a crescent where there is a spire. The cave inside that spire is called Hermit's Haven because you don't hunger or thirst if you live there and... you never age. I found it... nearly died... but me and Betsy my camera took a picture of it and red clouds came out... it was kinda pretty till it chased us away for 3 days straight." He shuttered. "Still have nightmares." He showed her the photo. Forge took out his shield and glared at his other attacker. "I wouldn't if I were you." Beak said to her. "Trust me." Scootaloo quickly took to the air with her apples, she headed for the intruders with Applebloom, but also stopped dead in mid air when Applebloom did. Red clouds? She said her voice almost breaking. Like the ones that took Rainbow? She dropped her apples and flew to the old coot and grabbed the photo from him, looking at it closely. Her eyes widened when she saw the clouds from her memories and nightmares. "And Rarity!" Sweetie Belle cried before hurrying over to Scootaloos side. "Let me see too!" She asked impatiently. However, she paused for a moment and then glanced over at Forge. "What does this have to do with you apple thief?" "You know how they said nopony died in the storm? Well it just so happens my parents were on a train heading back here and they got caught in a tornado caused by red clouds...and died. I have my own vendetta against those clouds. AND so do you." He got up and put the bag at their hooves. "Keep em. To show how serious I am about this I will make you a deal. If you help me get back at whatever did this I will never steal from your acre again! Heck if you want I'll turn myself in for theft!" Said Forge adamant about it. Sweetie Belle stared at him for a long moment, without saying anything at all. She wanted her big sister back more than anything in the world. She knew Scootaloo and Applebloom felt the same about their missing loved ones. The right thing to do would be for the three of them to discuss this before deciding what to do, but she was feeling rather rash. "I don't know about you girls, but I'm going! I want to know what these red clouds really are and what caused that storm." However, now her green eyes narrowed and she stalked closer to Forge so their faces were only inches from each other. "You better be telling the truth, because this is no joke. I promise you now that if this is a lie, I'll personally make you pay for it," she whispered in a threat. Forge got in her face."If your coming you be ready to pull your own weight! There is a good chance we may die before reaching the end! You REALLY willing to put your life on the line for this?" He walked around her his gaze piercing. "It's gonna be filled with some quicksand, cannibalistic lizardmen, poison plants and animals. And worse...we may not find it." The coot spoke up. "I could...you know draw you a map... if you made it worth my while..." Gesturing toward the bag of apples Forge cast aside. The old coot raised his eyebrows. "I AM a hobo you know...we gotta eat when we can." "I'll pull my weight alright. I never do anything in halves!" She growled back, lifting her chin high in defiance. "I'll do anything to find my sister and the others!"

Applebloom nodded. "I'll go too! If AppleJack is still alive somewhere, I'll rescue her no matter what!" She was close enough to hear the threat Sweetie Belle whispered into Forge's ear. "And that goes double for me." she added. WildGale was confused. "What are all you speaking of? Red clouds?" Then Applebloom explained to her about how those red clouds came several months ago and took several ponies, one of which was her older sister AppleJack. "Then the clouds dispersed and we never saw them again...until now." She ended. Then she watched in surprise as an odd look came onto WildGales face. Quickly she looked away and rubbed a leg over her eyes. Then she turned back. "I shall join you." She said in a tone of voice that left no room for argument. Sweetie Belle turned and stared at WildGale in surprise. "Are you sure?" She asked, wondering why this strange new pony would suddenly want to join them on a dangerous adventure. WildGale nodded firmly. "I'll help you get your herd mates back." she said If only was able to save my own herd mates... she thought sadly. Scootaloo was snapped out of her thoughts. Well, of course we're going! She dashed over to Forge and placed her hoof on his chest. But you! You better watch your tone. Don't forget you came here expecting our help, I think we can do this without you. She glared at him and walked over to her friends. "Yes but who will save you when the lizardmen bring their spears to your jugulars? I can use weapons too! You need something of a swordsman if youre gonna go because you WILL meet them if you do. Plus I can make runes that can improve your survival. I can make fires without wood and shelter anywhere we need it." He said as a matter of factly. "Plus I know more about the jungle then YOU do. My mom was a culture nut and taught me everything she knew!" Back at Ponyville The scene in the bakery surprised Ash and it took him a moment to recover when the two rowdy ponies left. Red clouds? Ash thought. This can't be good, but it was just a crazy old coot and a overreacting colt. What to do? What to do? Ash whipped out a scroll and quickly wrote something down, he rolled it up and blew dragon's fire on it and it disappeared. Then he turned back to Chocolate Pretzel. Thank you for your hospitality Sir. I'm sorry to leave so suddenly, but another matter has come to my attention. Ash quickly left the shop, he looked around and ran to the nearest pony. Excuse me Miss, did you see two unsavory characters coming out of the bakery? The pony pointed into a direction and Ash quickly headed that way. "U-um, you're most welcome sir," Chocolate Pretzel replied. He walked out the door with the young dragon and then watched him run off in concern. "What is going on here? Red clouds? That storm had red clouds..." Galaxy Jewel watched as the dragon came back out of the store, and asked a pony nearby where the old pony, and also a younger one that joined him, was. Then he hurried away in the direction the pony pointed. Galaxy Jewel was curious. Something was up. Something interesting. Galaxy quickly flew out of the tree and onto the roof of one of the stores. She kept on flying from roof to roof, following the younger dragon.

A while later Ash looked around him confused. No good, I can't find either of them. Ash suddenly gave a loud burp and a letter appeared in front of him. Finally. He said quickly opening the letter, he quickly read through it and sighed. Just as I thought, they want me to look into this further. I should try and find some of the people in the list and see if they can help me. First is Sweet Apple Acres. He looked around him. Now, where the hay am I? Apple trees! I need to look for apple trees. And he hurried off. "Well you needn't act so high and mighty about it!" snorted Applebloom. WildGale suddenly cut in. "Besides, the wingless lizards are nothing to worry about. A blow behind the head and they run away screeching. It's the dragons you really have to worry about." she said in contempt. "...Yes but... mind you. Those very same dragons don't randomly attack ponies unless they enter their territory and I can sneak us through each one. Illusion runes have their uses." Forge said. "I'm coming...even if I die I'm coming. Besides...what do you have to lose?" He said. "Ive got no friends besides Beak and no family. If I get in your way and get myself killed no consequences will be on your part. Beak comes and goes. He will be ok." Beak spoke up. "I HAVE only been hanging with him because his dad was my best friend, but I can't say I feel too much for the little guy. I mean I understand him but... you know. We don't have much in common." Beak stated landing on Forge's head. Weapons? Our friends never needed weapons. And the Jungle? Please. Applebloom and Sweetie Bell can tell you more about the Everfree Forest than you want to know. But... Scootaloo smiled mischievously. You did bring this news to us, so we should probably be grateful, so since you want to make a deal, let's make a deal. Scootaloo walked up to Applebloom and put her hoof around her neck, whispering into Applebloom's ear. How about you let him work off his thefts on the farm once we get back? Let him do all Big Mac's work. Applebloom smirked at Scootaloos suggestion. "That's a good idea!" She whispered back. Alright Forge. Scootaloo said turning back to him. You can tag along, but once we get back you work off your crimes here on the farm until Applebloom's satisfied, deal? "Oh...we would need sugar cubes to tame the giant birds that roam those lands. It would cut travel time in half...Hey wait...didn't that sweets place have sugar cubes?" Forge asked Beak. Beak nodded. "We will have to get some. Those birds are essential." Beak replied. So you wanna make a deal? Ill do whatever." Said Forge. Scootaloo walked up to Forge until they were nose to nose. Pinky Promise. She said seriously. "I don't know what that is." Forge said rather awkwardly. "Is this some social thing cause I had no friends remember? Ummm... what's a Pinkie Promise?" Said Forge. Sweetie Belle wasn't really all too sure she trusted this Forge fellow yet, but she supposed they would simply have to trust him. For now. We'll see how useful he claims to be soon I suppose. She thought to herself Cross your heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in your eye. Nobody can break a Pinkie promise, say it or no deal. Scootaloo looked at him intently. "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." He said. "We need

sugar cubes. I'll get them. Be prepared to meet back here and leave tomorrow morning. It's a long walk to the train station and... I know this seems weird but... You might wanna say goodbye just in case... you know." He walked away. "3:00 am while it's dark... be prepared." He trotted off. The coot spoke up."There is still the matter of my payment. No apples no map. I'll be back here at 3:00 with a map but if I don't see a barrel of apples no map." He picked up the bag. "Ill just take this as a faith payment for now heheheh!" He galloped away. Sweetie Belle sighed as she watched Forge run off and then that old pony going on again about a map as he snatched away the bag of apples. "Well girls, I suppose we should start getting ready? I'm going to have to find someone to take over my classes while I'm gone." Applebloom nodded. Then she ran after the old pony and snatched the bag from him. "I'll bring you apples if you bring the map. But ONLY when I see and study the map." she said, then trotted back to the others. Scootaloo turned to her friends Alright, I have a few things I need to get as well. She looked at them with hope in her eyes. We're going to save them guys, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow, all of them. She made ready to leave. Oh, Applebloom, is it alright if I crash here tonight? "I'd like to come back once I'm done too, if it's alright with you Applebloom." Added Sweetie Belle "No problem!" replied Applebloom. "Crash?" questioned WildGale, unused to that kind of talk. "Scoot just means she wants to come and stay here for the night." explained Applebloom. This satisfied WildGale. "I need to gather some stuff, then I'm gonna go into town to pick up some equipment. You can come with me if you want." Applebloom continued. "I suppose so." said WildGale, shrugging. Great! Scootaloo said. Then I'll see you later Applebloom and you too Sweetie Bell. And I guess I'll see you later as well WildGale, I'm sorry you got mixed up in all this. Scootaloo gave a flap of her wings and disappeared into the air. "I'll see you all later then!" Sweetie Belle said before taking off and heading back into town. Her boss probably wasn't going to be happy about her wanting to take off, but this was just too important to worry about things like that. Applebloom waved to her friends as they left, then she and WildGale went to her house. Applebloom pointed out the many ponies that made up her family and told her their names as they trotted. As Sweetie Belle was running she ended up colliding with something small and tumbling over it. "W-what?" She mumbled, dazed before standing up and noting she'd just tripped over a young dragon. "Oh! I'm so sorry, are you alright!?" Ash picked himself up. Oh, please excuse me Miss, I'm fine thank you, no harm done. Are you by any chance Miss Applebloom. I would like to talk to you about certain matters. "Applebloom? No, but she is one of my best friends. She lives on the farm up the road." Sweetie Belle replied. Thank you Miss. If it's not too much trouble do you mind introducing me to her.

My name's Ash and I'm on official business from the palace. Ash said Sweetie Belle glanced back towards town and suppressed a sigh. She supposed there was still plenty of time for that later. "Sure, come on sir. It's this way," she replied before heading back in the direction of the Apple family farm. Thank you very much. Ash followed Sweetie Bell towards the farm. At Forges Location "Hey!" Said Forge with a smile on his face. "I think they are starting to not hate me!" Beak rolled his eyes. "Yeah and I'm a fire breathing dragon." Forge walked on his way to the shop where he saw the sugar cubes and went to the counter of the store. "Hello could we have some sugar cubes... it's for a um.... good cause!" The hobo put his head through the door. "Yeah to stop the red clouds!" He went on his way leaving a very annoyed Forge inside. "Ignore him he ummm... he is wacko. Uber demented! He has no idea what he is saying! The cubes are for umm... for ummm....." Forge said trying to think of an excuse. Chocolate Pretzel glanced down at Forge in concern. This was that pony from earlier who had asked for a free sample and then ran off once that older pony had starting rambling about red clouds. Now he wanted a bunch of free sugar cubes? What in Equestria was going on!? "What exactly is this good cause you are speaking of then?" He asked carefully. Forge sighed. "We are going to Hermit's Haven with the map that Homeless guy is gonna give us. We are gonna travel there and save, supposedly, the wielders of the elements of harmony. IF, mind you, they are still alive. Immortal and invincible are TWO DIFFRENT THINGS. There are birds that can cut our travel in half if we can tame them and sugar cubes are the only way. So...can you please give us some. We will only need 5.One for each of us." "Well, it appears I did meet my quota for today so why not?" He replied before fetching Forge five sugar cubes and putting them in a bag. "This mission, it sounds very dangerous. You say five of you are going?" "Yup. It's a bit concerning but we will be okay. Besides if I save the Mane Six I'll be liked by everyone! I'll stop being remembered as that "violent kid"." He said "Besides who else would want to come along. The road to becoming a legend is long and hard. Chances are most likely we are gonna die." Chocolate Pretzel nearly dropped the bag of sugar cubes on the floor at the 'most likely going to die' part. His concern intensified. "So you are going on a journey to find the former holders of the elements of harmony? Just to become famous? Isn't this quite the risk?" He wondered if he should try and talk him out of this. "No! The real reason is to avenge my parents! Everything else is just a bonus!" Forge he used his magic to pick up the bag. "Besides it's not like your coming with right?" "M-me? I wouldn't be of much use on such a journey. I don't suppose there is any way I could convince you and your friends this isn't a good idea is there?" "Nope. Three of them lost loved ones in that storm. No way youre gonna stop us." Beak nodded."Thank you. And um...don't tell anyone ok?"They turned for the door. Chocolate Pretzel stared after them, wondering if they'd really be alright.

"Well...wait a second then. You never did get your free sample earlier. Since it might be awhile before you get to come back, why not take something as a sort of...parting gift?" "That is legitimately the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me? Sad right?" He smiled. "Thank you. Ok now lets see... that fudge looks good." He pointed at the fudge. "Really?" Chocolate Pretzel asked, sounding a bit surprised. Did this poor colt really have no friends? He got the fudge out for him and handed it over. "You're welcome and do have a safe journey." Back where Sweetie Belle is speaking with Ash And may I ask what your name is Miss? Ash asked "No problem. I'm Sweetie Belle, it's nice to meet you Ash." She replied. Sweetie Bell? Ash flipped open his notebook and looked through it, he found the name and came to a stop. I'm so sorry Miss Sweetie Bell. He said bowing low to her. You are one of her highness, Princess Celestias, close friends. I would be honored if you and Miss Applebloom can assist me in an urgent matter that has come upon me. "Oh really...there isn't any need for bowing," she said. Feeling a bit embarrassed. "I'd really love to help you Ash, but...I'm going on err... I'm going to be gone for awhile after tomorrow. Can whatever you need be done tonight?" I'm sorry to be a bother Miss, I'll be grateful for whatever help you can offer. You see, this afternoon I witnessed some unsavory characters talking about red clouds, it's probably nothing, but the palace has informed me to follow up on it. I'm looking for an old, rather scruffy gentleman. And a young dark-brown unicorn colt with a shield cutie mark. If you could tell me of someone that can help me find them I shall let you get back to your duties. Sweetie Belle just stared at him for a moment. Everything just seemed to keep tying together didn't it? "Let me take you to Applebloom, I think we will be able to help you out after all," she replied and as they walked towards the farm she explained the days events thus far to him from the beginning. >insert sudden scene changes here< "Eck!" Forge twitched a bit. "I felt like someone mentioned me! Thats weird!" He thought to himself. "Oh?" Chocolate Pretzel asked, sounding confused. "Goodbye! And thanks again!"He left. Things were looking up. He couldn't help but wonder what that twitch was about. He felt like the divine will of the macrocosms was about to press the "Your doomed" button on him. He went home and socketed his shield with 6 runes: Fireplace rune, Shelter rune(medium), Flash rune, Short sword rune, Boomerang rune, and his classic illusion rune. He only could take 6 besides his shield rune. He wore his bandana around his horn like his mother did. Some ponies thought this was girly and would end up waking the next day with a welt on their heads wondering what happened. Plus it reduced glare, and this was how the pirates of old used to wear their bandanas. He liked ninjas but his mom was a pirate lover. He brought out a large pack for carrying supplies. He brought some rope, a knife, and a smokescreen rune. "Tomorrow... LETS DO THIS." He put a knockout rune on his head and fell asleep...the rune was made to wake you whenever you desired. He wanted to be up at 2:45 just to be safe.

Beak knew Forge's father since before he was born. He used to be adamant too. He looked a lot like him...but with his mother's eyes and hyper mentality. "Good night... would be warrior. Maybe in your dreams you can be a legitimate one." He perched himself and went to sleep. Chocolate watched him run off and then glanced up at the sky, the sun was setting now. He might as well close up shop for the night everypony would probably be heading home now after all. After closing the shop he started to trot off to his own house, but he couldn't get the things Forge had said off his mind. Was it really alright to let them all go? Scootaloo flew into her bedroom in the clouds and grabbed the saddlebags that hang on the wall. She picked up the flying goggles next to her bed, they once belonged to Rainbow Dash, and put them into the bag. Then she closed her door and looked out of the window to see if anypony was around. She walked to the corner of her room and started digging at the clouds, it wasn't long before she picked up two small bags in each hoof. She smiled to herself. This is probably the two most dangerous things ever invented by pegasi. She quickly put them in her bag, folded it closed and left her room through her window. Applebloom noticed that many of her relatives often stopped what they were doing at stared at WildGale as they passed. Even Big Mac looked surprised. WildGale didn't seem to notice however. She was too busy looking at everything and asking about what did this thing do, or what was that for. Applebloom felt she had never talked more in all her life. By this time both of them were inside Applebloom's room. "Now let's see..." she mumbled to her self. "What should I take..." Then she started packing While WildGale went around the room looking at things like the pages of rooms that Applebloom had designed. Back at the Sweetie Belle and Ash scene Galaxy watched Ash and Sweetie Belle from a spot just close enough to hear their conversation. Ash seemed extremely polite... a real gentleman. She wished at least one of her siblings were like that. He was also talking about an urgent matter. What kind of urgent matter? It sounded serious. This is most interesting and frightening at the same time. Ash said when they reached Applebloom's house, he was taking down what Sweetie Belle said in a scroll. And you will be leaving to save your friends early in the morning. Thank you so very much Miss Sweetie Belle, I'm sure her Highness will be glad for this information. He said and rolled up the scroll, and in a puff of dragon fire it disappeared. I'll let you know what... Ash gave a burp and a letter appeared in front of him, he took the letter and stared at it to stunned to say anything. "What is it?" Sweetie asked in concern as she walked up to knock on the front door. It's a letter from her Highness herself. Ash said opening it. It's addressed to you Miss Sweetie Belle. Ash cleared his throat and started to read. To my dear Sweetie Belle. Hearing of your journey fills me with much hope. I knew that someday you and your friends would leave in search for Twilight and the others. It saddens me that I could never do more to help them. My heart goes out with you. I ask that you please take Ash with you on your journey, for now I've relieved him of all other duties in Ponyville.

Sweetie Belle's eyes widened slightly, but then she smiled softly. She should have expected such from the princess after all. "Well, looks like you're coming with us then." Ash looked worried. But I'm a records keeper, what could I do on such a journey? Of what use would I be? He paced up and down. But it's a direct order from the Princess, I have to go. He bit his lip for a moment and then turned to Sweetie Belle. I'm at your service Miss Sweetie Belle. He said determined. I'll do my best in any duties you require. "I'm sure you'll do just fine," Sweetie Belle assured him. She knocked on the door and Granny Smith let them in. "Hey Applebloom, I have someone you need to meet!" Applebloom turned to Sweetie Belle, surprised she was back already. "Who do I need to meet?" then she noticed Ash. "Oh, hi there!" WildGales eyes narrowed when she saw Ash. With a snort she turned away. Galaxy Jewel waited outside Applebloom's house in an apple tree. She had the strange urge to follow the duo on the journey. But she also felt she shouldn't reveal herself just yet. It's a pleasure to meet you Miss Applebloom. Ash said bowing low. My name is Ash and I'm at service to you from her Highness, the Princess. "I'll be back. Now that you're introduced I can go get my things." Sweetie Belle said as she left the room. Ash turned towards WildGale. And you are Miss? Ash eyes widened when he got a good look at her. Are you a pony? Ash looked at her from the side and opened his notepad. Soon he was examining her wings and taking notes. Looks mostly dragon like. So mysterious, I've never seen that before. Applebloom blushed slightly at the polite way Ash introduced himself. "Wow, you must be really smart if you serve the Princess!" Then she noticed how WildGale seemed cold shouldered. "Um...that's WildGale. We just met her this morning." WildGale only responded with a grunt. Ash realized WildGales attitude towards him and he closed his notebook. Please excuse me, sometimes I forget my manners. He turned back to Applebloom. No, Miss. I'm merely a records keeper for the palace, I'm vigilant in my work, but I've never been praised for being smart. This is the first... well technically second assignment the Princess has personally given me. Ashes stomach growled and he was suddenly embarrassed. If it's alright with you Miss Applebloom, I'll head into town for something to eat, I've been busy and seemed to have skipped lunch. "Of course it's alright!" said Applebloom, still blushing a little bit. WildGale looked at Ash out of the corner of her eye. Sweetie Belle trotted off towards her house, feeling a burst of excitement. She'd stopped on her way home to find a substitute teacher for her classes and now all she had to do was pack and then head back to the Apple family farm! We're doing this! We're really doing this! We are going to save them! I'm coming Rarity! She was just so caught up in all this that once again she didn't watch where she was going and collided head first into another pony and with a yelp fell over backwards. "Oh, ow!" She grumbled aloud, sitting up and feeling dizzy. Once her vision focused again she saw a tall brown Pegasus in a similar position to hers and quickly stood up. "Oh, I'm so sorry sir, are you alright!?" Chocolate Pretzel stood and swayed a bit before regaining his footing. "Yes, I'm quite fine. Thank you, if anything I'm sorry miss... I wasn't paying attention at all."

Sweetie sighed in relief. "That's good then, sorry again, I'm in a bit of a hurry!" She said before going to take off again. Chocolate glanced after her nervously. Could she be one of the ponies leaving with Forge!? He hesitated for a moment and then followed her. "Oh uh...so where are you off too?" She gave him a weird look. "Um...a vacation," she mumbled, not wanting to give away their secret mission. "Where too?" He said quickly She glared at him. This was just weird now! Why was this strange Pegasus asking her questions? "Somewhere, goodbye now!" She said before running. "U-um, wait!" He knew it was probably a bad idea, but he ran after her only to see her run into a nearby home and slam the door shut. STALKER, I HAVE A STALKER, WHAT IF HE FOLLOWS ME BACK TO THE FARM!? Sweetie Belle thought in a panic. Sweetie Belle took a deep breath and then just decided to ignore him. She went up to her room and packed all her things. She wondered if she should let her parents know she was leaving? They probably wouldn't let her go then. She wrote out a note and left it for them on the table, hoping they'd understand and then collected her things and headed back out the door. She was annoyed to see Chocolate Pretzel was still standing out there staring at her house and now her considering she'd just come out the door. She attempted to walk past him, but heard the sound of his hooves on the sidewalk as he followed her. "U-um, miss, if you'd just wait a second...you wouldn't happen to be going with that Unicorn who is looking for the red clouds would you?" She paused for a moment and turned to look at him. How'd he know about that? Should she admit that was indeed where she was going? Scootaloo was on her way back to Sweet Apple Acres when she saw Sweetie Belle and Chocolate Pretzel below her. She rolled over in the air, dived down to the street and landed next to Sweetie Belle. Hey Sweetie Belle, I thought you'd be at Appleblooms already. Hi Chocolate Pretzel, what are you doing out and about? "Oh, Scoot! Thank goodness," Sweetie Belle replied in relief. "Well, ugh, I meet a young dragon named Ash along the way and had to take him back to Applebloom. He's been sent by Princess Celestia to accompany us!" Chocolate Pretzel? So that was this Pegasus' name? She wondered why she'd never really met him before now. Chocolate Pretzel stared over at Scootaloo a bit nervously. "W-well um, I heard miss Sweetie Belle was going on a...'vacation' and was wondering if she was going with that Unicorn who is looking for the red clouds at Hermit's Haven?" Really!? Princess Celestia sent someone over to help? Things are definitely looking up for us. So, do you know Chocolate Pretzel? She said turning to him. Name's Scootaloo. She said holding out a hoof. I've heard about you, heroes don't go unnoticed around Ponyville, especially by the weather ponies. "So it seems. Ash came to check things out and then he heard Forge talking about the red clouds. After that he met me and Princess Celestia sent me a letter saying he was to come with us and help in any way we needed," Sweetie Belle replied cheerfully. "and uh, no, we just met actually," she added before glancing over at Chocolate again warily. "H-heroes?" Chocolate asked sounding confused. "It's nice meeting you Scootaloo," he replied, holding out a hoof in return. "And you too Sweetie Belle," he added. "Forge, that must be what that young colt's name was then, you know him?"

You saved a pony four months ago didn't you? Sounds pretty heroic to me. And yeah, we have the displeasure of knowing Forge, we're all leaving together. We should really be going though, it's getting late. It was nice meeting you Chocolate Pretzel. Scootaloo turned to Sweetie Belle. Let's go Sweetie Belle I'm really excited to meet Ash. "Well, yes..." He replied. "It was nice meeting both of you as well. Do be careful on your trip," he called after them reluctantly. "Yep, let's go," Sweetie Belle agreed happy to be setting off. "Jeez, that pony sure was nosy!" She huffed once they were far enough away. Really? I wonder what he wanted? Scootaloo said as they walked off to Sweet Apple Acres. Anyway I was thinking, how about 'The Element Crusaders'? Because we're going to save the wielders of the elements of harmony right. It doesn't sound to 'bleh', does it? "No, I think that sounds great!" Sweetie Belle replied encouragingly. "Wait until we tell Applebloom!" Ash left the house and stopped just as he almost ran into Sweetie Belle again. Please excuse me Miss Sweetie Belle, I was rushing and almost didn't see you. Scootaloo looked amazed at the little dragon. Is this the dragon Princess Celestia sent, Sweetie Belle? He looks totally cool, if a bit short. She smiled. "Oh, it's alright Ash. Yep, this is him!" Sweetie Belle responded. "What are you doing out and about Ash? Is something wrong?" I'm just on my way to find something to eat Miss Sweetie Belle, in my haste this afternoon I forgot to have lunch. So you're Ash, it's great to have you with us, my name's Scootaloo. She said holding out a hoof. Ash ignored her hoof and gave a deep bow instead. It's a pleasure to meet you Miss Scootaloo. Scootaloo felt a bit awkward and didn't know what to do. Let's drop the Miss, alright Ash, no need to be that formal. "Indeed, you are going to be traveling with us after all. You know, you could have just asked Applebloom for something to eat. I don't think anything is open anymore." Added Sweetie Belle. I really didn't want to impose. Ash said. Don't worry about it. Scootaloo said pushing Ash back towards the house. If you're going to travel with us, youre going to eat with us. Scootaloo pushed Ash through the door. Hey, Applebloom! We're back. "Yep and we've got everything we need! I think in least." Sweetie Belle added. "So he is coming with us then?" Said Beak perched on a nearby branch. "Good to know." Applebloom looked up. "Oh good! I just finished up packing!" WildGale had gone into another room. Having a dragon around unsettled her very much. She didn't think the others should be so nice to him... "Yep!" Sweetie Belle wondered where WildGale had gone off to, but decided to leave her be. She's probably just tired. We should all be getting to sleep soon... She thought to herself.