I walked out of the Everfree after my encounter with Faust and the knights and also made a special request to Zecora. I was on my way to visit Fancy Pants in the hospital to see if he was alright after the incident when I arrived I saw a pair of guards outside the doors. I walked over to them and they gave me a sharp salute which I returned.

"Are you Celestia's escort?" I asked.

"No sir we're under orders to protect Fancy Pants and Fleur de lis," a guard said.

"Understood carry on," I said as I walked inside.

As I entered I saw Fancy Pants lying on a bed with Fleur by his side when they saw me smiles made their way onto their faces.

"How're you feeling Fancy Pants?" I asked.

"It could've been worse if not for you. You saved us I owe you my life Ash," Fancy said.

"I'm just glad you’re all okay really," I said.

"Ash did you find anything on those ponies?" Fleur asked.

"Yes papers ordering our deaths and a human weapon also Celestia is going to find out who they are so you don't need to worry about a thing," I said.

"A human weapon?" Fancy asked in a surprised tone.

"I can't show you here because of the hospital rules so all you need to know for now is that the matter is being taken very seriously. So I'd say that the lowlifes responsible won't be able to hide forever," I said.

"That's reassuring to know," Fleur said.

"Yes well I need to go it's been a stressful day and I need to rest are you going to stay here Fleur?" I asked.

"Yes thank you Ash," Fleur said.

"I understand get well soon Fancy Pants," I said as I turned towards the door but stopped when I heard Fancy speak.

"Wait Ash before you leave if there is anything I can do for you all you need to do is ask," Fancy said.

"I take you up on that offer if I need anything," I said before I left.

I woke up the next morning with a creak in my neck I twisted my head in a direction and managed to hear the cracks from my muscles and bones. I let out a sigh of satisfaction before I let Dust out and completed my morning duties. I walked downstairs and greeted Feather Duster and Silver Tray and informed them of Fancy Pants condition which they were relieved to hear. After breakfast I was going to meet the girls at Rainbow's home because, I heard that Rainbow Dash and Thunderlane were going to find out if they were admitted into the Wonderbolts Academy. I left the house and flew to RD's cloud home immediately. When I arrived I saw the mane 6 sitting on a picnic blanket I landed and greeted the girls before I sat down on the picnic blanket with them.

"Ohhhh I wish the mail pony would just come already I can't wait another minute to find out if Rainbow Dash got in or not," Pinkie said as she hopped around Rainbow Dash's letter box.

"Pinkie Pie you're more nervous then Rainbow Dash," Twilight said.

"I'm not nervous at all when I get into the Wonderbolt Academy...," Rainbow started only to be cut off from Pinkie.

"If you get in if you get in don't jinx it," Pinkie said.

"I'm telling you it's in the bag," Rainbow said.

"Don't jinx it," Pinkie repeated.

"She is the best flyer in Ponyville," Applejack said.

"In Ponyville I'm probably the best flyer in all of Equestria I wouldn't be surprised if they made me a Wonderbolt on the first day," Rainbow said flying backwards gently.

"There's more to being a Wonderbolt skittles those guys are a military unit as well," I said.

"I know that bu...Wait what did you just call me?" Rainbow asked me with a stern glare.

"I called you skittles it's a type of candy where I'm from that comes in a rainbow of colour it's catchphrase is touch the rainbow taste the rainbow," I said longing back without a care causing Applejack and Pinkie Pie to snicker at the new nickname.

"Y'know I like that catchphrase whenever I go to sucker punch somepony I can shout get ready to taste the rainbow," Rainbow said.

"Do what you will," I said waving my hand dismissively.

"Gotta letter here for Rainbow Dash,"

Our attention was drawn onto the mail pony as he held out a letter. RD rushed towards the pony and yanked it out of his hand and didn't hesitate to rip it open. As she read the letter the smile on her face disappeared.

"I didn't get in," Rainbow said heartbroken causing the girls to gasp in shock. "Gotcha," Rainbow replied showing the large green check on the piece of paper. "You guys are so gullible like I wasn't gonna get in," Rainbow said before she was tackled to the ground and squeezed into a hug by Pinkie Pie.

"I'm just so happy for you," Pinkie said while crushing Rainbow.

"Uh...Thanks...Pinkie Pie I kinda need to get going," Rainbow said.

"Don't you mean we need to get going?"

"We turned our gaze to see Thunderlane flying over to us with a piece of paper like Rainbow's.

"So you got in too huh nice," Rainbow said once she got out of Pinkie's grip.

"Uh huh this is gonna be sweet," Thunder said fist bumping Rainbow.

"I've also got a letter for Ash Blade," The mail pony said handing me a letter.

I opened the letter and read the contents before I stood up.

"Well what does it say Ash?" Twilight asked.

"I'm requested at the academy for something," I said.

"Really do you think you'll be training us?" Rainbow asked.

"You'd better hope not," I said.

"Well let's hope it’s not anything serious," Thunderlane said.

"Yeah but first I suggest you both get your hindquarters over to the academy before I kick them there," I said.

"Right," Rainbow and Thunderlane replied.

"Good luck!" Applejack said.

"Won't need it!" Rainbow called as she and Thunder took off.

All of a sudden Pinkie ran after them and pulled a massive megaphone out from nowhere and took a deep breath.

"DONT FORGET TO WRITE!" Pinkie screamed into the megaphone "Do you think she herd me?" Pinkie asked.

"I think all of Equestria could here you Pinkie," I said trying to stop the ringing in my ears.

"Well you better get going to darling," Rarity said recovering from Pinkie's shout.

"Right well first I need to take care of something so later," I said as I flew back to my home to set up for the week

I was flying through the clouds on my way to the Wonderbolt Academy I left Dust with Fluttershy so that was taken care of. Just then my destination was in site a tall pillar of earth that reached the clouds. On top of the pillar stood a bunch of buildings and from what I could see a runway. I landed on the ground and looked around and saw Pegasi and a few griffons doing exercises. I walked across the grounds looking at as much as I could.

"You made it,"

I looked up to see Soarin flying down towards me dressed in his Wonderbolt flight suit.

"Yeah now care to tell me why you asked me here?" I asked.

"Well I figured that if you’re not doing anything and you asked me about how the Wonderbolts trained I thought I’d invite you so you'd might want to come and have a look," Soarin said.

"Really," I said in a tired tone.

"Well yeah you did turn the Pegasus guards into macho muscle warriors and it might be a good idea to see a demonstration on air combat," Soarin said.

"Well I guess I could," I said.

"Sweet c'mon I'll introduce you to Spitfire," Soarin said as he lifted himself into the air with me not to far behind.

We flew over the grounds until I saw a small group of Pegasi. Among the group I saw a rainbow coloured mane that belonged to Rainbow Dash, along with a silver Mohawk belonging to Thunderlane. I shook my head with a smile thinking to myself on how easy it would be to spot those two in a large crowd. Both Soarin and I landed on the ground behind the group and waited in the shade of a tree I sat down and pulled the hood over my head.

"So now what?" I asked.

"You'll see," Soarin said.

"Lookie what we got here,"

The group of Pegasi stood in a straight line at attention just as a Pegasus mare with yellow fur and an orange mane and tail that looked like fire walked over. She wore a pair of aviator shades to hide her eyes she also wore a dark blue military coat that had medals pined to it. She wore a white shirt underneath the coat along with a tie and a skirt that matched her coat.

"Bet you all think you're Wonderbolt material don't ya," The mare said as she paced back and forth in front of the Pegasi.

"Yes ma'am," the group of Pegasi replied.

"You think you've got what it takes to be an elite flyer," the mare said.

"Yes ma'am," The Pegasi replied.

"Well let me be the first to tell you…You don't if you had what it took to be an elite flyer you'd already be a Wonderbolt!" The mare said stopping in front of a blue Pegasus mare with a silver mane and tail. Thunderlane introduced me to her and told me her name was Cloudchaser. "Still think your something special?" the mare asked glaring at the trembling Pegasus.

"No ma'am," Cloudchaser replied.

"Think your hot stuff?" The mare said as she went from Cloudchaser to staring down a white furred stallion Pegasus with a short blond mane and tail. He had extremely large muscles that dwarfed me and Mac but had tiny wings. "You look like the worst flyer in the whole academy you'll probably quit after the first day," The mare said to Rainbow Dash.

"No ma'am I never quit ma'am," Rainbow replied.

"What about you bet you couldn't fly past the first flagpole without getting winded," The Pegasus mare said to the mare next to Rainbow. She had Aqua Green fur and a golden mane and tail and golden eyes. She was wearing a butterscotch hoodie that was unzipped halfway revealing a white singlet. She also wore a pair of aqua jogging pants.

"Try me ma'am," the mare said with a confident smile.

This got my attention of the bold Pegasus causing me to raise an eyebrow at her.

"What's that?" the yellow mare asked lowering her shades revealing a pair of fire amber eyes.

"Let me show you what I've got ma'am," the mare replied.

"Huh so you want a chance to prove yourself do ya," the yellow mare said.

"Yes ma'am," the mare said.

"Well then now's your chance give me 500 laps…All of you!" the yellow mare yelled causing most of the group to groan. "Now!" the yellow mare yelled while she blew her whistle resulting in the Pegasi to take flight.

An hour went by and every Pegasi was almost done. The ones in the lead were Rainbow and the Pegasus with Thunderlane not too far behind.

"Lap 499!" The yellow mare shouted at Rainbow and the other Pegasus as they passed the start/finish line.

The two Pegasi all of a sudden increased their speed Rainbow left behind a rainbow in her wake while the Pegasus left a golden lightning bolt. The two rounded the last bend and came at a tie at the finish line.

"Not bad for a couple of newbies," The yellow mare said as she walked over to an instructor Pegasus.

"That aqua Pegasus's attitude reminds me of myself," I said.

"What do you have a crush on that Pegasus or something," Soarin asked waggling his eyebrows.

"No man all I'm saying is she has a strong will but defiant also she may be a reckless that's all," I said after I slapped Soarin on the back of his head.

"Yeah, yeah but what about Spitfire?" Soarin asked.

"The mare with the flaming orange mane?" I asked.

"Yeah," Soarin replied.

"She's beautiful strong fit and like any drill instructor intimidating but unfortunately not enough to scare me. Also I can tell that underneath all that yelling and screaming she's actually a nice mare. She puts on the act to get the students to cooperate and focus on what needs to be done," I said.

"Not scary enough for you," a voice says causing Soarin to freeze in place. I just looked at the owner of the voice to see Spitfire. "Hey Soarin who's this?" Spitfire said gesturing to me with an angry look.

"Oh uh h-hey Spit's this is," Soarin started.

"Names Ash Blade but can call me Ash for short," I said as I stood up revealing my size to Spitfire and took my hood off.

"Ah so the knight of freedom has come to pay a visit. So what do you think of the facility?" Spitfire asked.

"Well if you want my expert opinion the exercises could be taken up a notch," I said.

"Excuse me we push things to the limit you can't get any higher then this," Spitfire scowled.

"Well if I was able to do it with the Royal guards then I bet I could do it here," I said.

"Oh really how about a match one on one me and you," Spitfire suggested.

"Uh Spits I don't think...," Soarin started.

"Are you sure about that? Just because you’re a mare and an officer I won't take it easy on you and you must know how many others have failed to beat me," I said.

"Oh I'm aware of that and it's been a long time since I've had any real competition. Plus I wouldn't want you to take it easy on me anyway otherwise it's no fun then," Spitfire said with a face of a predator ready to kill its opponent for food.

"Alright your call," I said with a shrug.

"Soarin take your boy over to the ring in 20 minutes while I sought something out," Spitfire ordered.

"Y-yeah sure Spitfire b-but it's just...," Soarin stuttered.

"Just what?" Spitfire asked lowering her aviators once more.

"N-nothing," Soarin said.

"Good," Spitfire said before she left.

"Damn I hate it when I have to deal with her in her commando mode she's so scary when she's like that," Soarin said.

"Maybe for you she seems like a nice mare," I said

"Well I doubt you'll get on her good side anytime soon you just agreed to fight her," Soarin said.

"Nah she's just wanting to see what I can do maybe even blow off some steam," I said.

"How do you know?" Soarin asked.

Cause I've seen that look a thousand times now," I said.

20 minutes later

Both Soarin and I walked through a pair of double doors to see a boxing ring in the centre along. There was some typical exercising machinery around the edge along and a blue door that leads to the changing rooms. Just then, Spitfire walked out wearing a blue sports bra with a yellow lightning bolt pattern that covered her DD cup sized breasts. She also was wearing a pair of fitness shorts that hugged her toned legs. Her stomach was flat and had no trace of fat anywhere on her body.

"You're here good," Spitfire said when she noticed us.

"Why you think I wouldn't show?" I asked.

"I had my doubts I'll admit," Spitfire said as she walked towards the ring.

"Well whatever so you ready?" I asked.

"Sure let_," Spitfire was cut off when the doors opened and Rainbow Dash, Thunderlane and the aqua Pegasus walked in but they froze when they saw us.

"Uh sorry we'll just go," Thunder said.

"Nah it's alright Thunder in fact would you like to watch Spitfire and I are about to have a little one on one match," I said.

"Wait one on one...," Thunder started.

"With Spitfire," Rainbow finished.

"Yeah and having an audience would be cool as long as Spitfire doesn't have any complaints," I said turning my gaze to Spitfire.

"I have no argument I actually wanted to have somepony watch as well," Spitfire said.

"Hey Spits what do you need,"

I turned around to see a new mare had come in. she had a blue coat and a white mane and tail with violet eyes and was wearing a Wonderbolt uniform.

"Hey Fleets I'm sure you know who this is," Spitfire said gesturing towards me.

"Of course Ash Blade right knight of freedom," the mare said.

"Yep but call me Ash and you are?" I asked.

"Fleetfoot nice to meet you," Fleet foot said as she offered her hand to me which I shook "So why did you call me down here?" Fleetfoot asked.

"I was hoping you'd want to spectate my and Ash's little brawl," Spitfire said.

"You’re gonna fight her?" Fleetfoot asked.

"Yep but it's all in good fun," I said.

"Well good luck because she's never lost to anyone before," Fleetfoot whispered.

"Well I haven't lost to anyone in this world yet so this shall be interesting," I whispered back.

“You two done so we can get started I want to see what this human is made of,” Spitfire said in the ring ready for me.

“Sorry about that Spitfire but yes we’re done,” I said as I climbed into the ring and took off my jacket then my shirt I could tell Spitfire, Fleetfoot and the aqua Pegasus were surprised by my left arm and the scars covering me. I think I even saw Fleetfoot lick her lips at the sight. “See something you like Fleetfoot,” I said causing the mare to shake her head and look away in embarrassment.

“Wow those scars look like you went through hell,” Spitfire said surprised while looking me over.

“I did now will you stop staring please,” I said.

“Huh…Oh right,” Spitfire said shaking her head getting into a fighting stance.

I also got into a stance and calmly breathed just then, Soarin rang the bell and faster then I could blink Spitfire flew at me and landed a hit on my stomach. I stumbled back from the hit and was stunned by the sudden attack. Just then, I was taking blows left and right Spitfire was punching me in the head and gut giving me no time to recover. I managed to get my guard up and swatted Spitfire’s punch away with my left hand and followed up with a punch to her gut with my right. Spitfire was forced backwards and placed a hand on her stomach from the blow. She saw surprised that the blow was more powerful then she thought I got my guard up again and waited for the next attack. Spitfire recovered but I was faster and landed some more punches on her. I leapt backwards and Spitfire flew at me again but this time I was ready. I dodged right and Spitfire flew into the ropes as she was bounced back into the ring. I stepped in and extended my right arm into a curve and Spitfire was tossed into it. Her face came in contact with my arm and her body was flung out wards and landed on the floor she recovered from the attack quickly and rolled away and got into a crouching position.

“Wow I gotta hand it to you nopony has lasted this long against me before,” Spitfire said as she stood.

“Shall we call it a draw because this is heading nowhere,” I suggested as I raised my hand.

“Yeah,” Spitfire said as she held out her hand.

We caught each other’s hands in each other’s indicating a truce.

“Let’s get ourselves cleaned up,” Spitfire suggested.

“Now that’s an idea,” I agreed looking at my sweat drenched and bruised body.

I grabbed my jacket and shirt before Spitfire led me to the change rooms I saw private showers and lockers Spitfire walked into the shower then closed and locked the door.

“You peek and you’re dead got it,” Spitfire said as the door closed.

“Noted,” I said before I walked over to another cubicle and began to undress. I placed my clothes on a hook before I walked under the showerhead. I twisted the nob and rinsed off the sweat on my body and cooled myself down. After I cleaned myself off I turned off the water and looked around for a towel only to realise I forgot to grab one from outside. I didn’t hear any water coming from Spitfire’s shower and I assumed she left already. I unlocked the door and opened it to see Spitfire standing outside my shower fully dressed with a cheeky look on her face. I was shocked to see her I then looked down to see I was in the nude and looked back at Spitfire.

“Nice gear,” Spitfire replied.

I felt my cheeks turn red before I slammed the door closed.

“WHAT THE FUCK SPITFIRE I THOUGHT YOU SAID NO PEEKING!” I yelled as I had my back to the door.

“Yeah but technically you walked out and I was standing right here also it’s nothing to worry about it’s not like I’ve seen a stallions bit’s before,” Spitfire said with a laugh.

“But I’m not a stallion,” I said.

“True but makes it all the more interesting,” Spitfire giggled

“Well screw you and while you’re out there can you hand me a towel,” I said with no kindness in my voice.

“Ok and look I’m sorry my curiosity got the better of me,” Spitfire said her voice filled with meaning.

“*Sigh* Just get me a towel and I’ll decide if I should forgive you,” I said.

A towel was soon handed to me over the door and I quickly dried myself off and got dressed before I opened the door. I walked outside and Spitfire was looking at her hooves her ears flattened against her head I gave out a sigh before I spoke.

“Here’s what’s gonna happen you’re not gonna say a word of what happened here to anyone and if you pull a stunt like this again I won’t forgive you,” I said.

“So are we good this time?” Spitfire asked.

“Yeah were good,” I said.

“Thanks and hey I know we just met but I could use some help around here,” Spitfire said.

"What do you need?" I asked.

"Well were down on a fitness and combat instructor and we've got one coming in four days’ time. So I saw and heard you have plenty of experience so do you think you could help us out until an instructor comes?" Spitfire asked.

I took a few seconds of thought before I came up with my answer.

“I'm ok with that I'll even get to teach RD some moves,” I said.

“Great I'll show you to your room and I'll even pay for your help,” Spitfire said as she led me out the door.

I woke up and had a shower and had breakfast with the other staff members. Soarin was stoked that I was handling combat and fitness and showed me to the gym where I would be working. I decided to set the room up on how I wanted it before Rainbows group arrived.

"Ash I thought you went home," Thunderlane said as he and the group walked in.

"That was the plan but it changed Spitfire has asked me to be your temporary combat and fitness instructor so while you lot are in this classroom you will address me as sir got it runts," I said the group nodded in understanding. "Alright then...NOW GET YOUR TAILS IN LINE ALL OF YOU!" I shouted surprising the lot but they got in line. "Just because you lot are Wonderbolts it doesn't mean you'll be doing high flying stunts all the time. The Wonderbolts are also a combat unit and need to learn how to defend not only yourselves but others as well. When you lot are with me I'm going to push you to the limit and beyond and I will treat you all as equals. So no special treatment for anyone got that!" I yelled.

"Sir yes sir," the group said in union.

"To start us off I'll need a partner," I said I looked at the group until eyes rested on the muscled Pegasus. "You come here," I said pointing to the stallion the stallion stepped forth and stood next to me "We're going to start with a simple takedown when you’re dealing with an inexperienced fighter you'll need to neutralise the situation quickly," I said turning to the stallion "You got a name?" I asked.

"I'M BULK BICEPS!" The stallion yelled.

"Charmed," I said in an unamused tone "Now biceps your roll is simple all you need to do is hit me," I said getting a confused look from everyone.

"But...uh," Biceps mumbled.

"NOW!" I roared.

Biceps reeled back left fist and swung it at me but I just dodged to the side and grabbed his fore arm with my right hand and his upper arm with my right. I ducked slightly and pushed my body against his and pulled on his arm causing him to flip over me. He landed on his back and onto the safety mat I brought out. I then placed my left foot on his right shoulder before I looked at the stunned class.

"What I just demonstrated there was a simple takedown for ponies bigger and stronger then you. Even if the pony is big and tough all you need to do is use their size and strength against them. And in this position I have two ways to neutralize Biceps here. I can either break his arm or by knocking him out I won't show you how to do those cause for now, I want you all to get your partners into this position and nothing more. Lead ponies will work with their wing ponies on this so I'll let you all decide who goes first," I said as I helped Biceps up. "If any of you have any questions let me know all right get started," I said to the group.

Four Days Later

Fleetfoot was flying around the grounds stretching her wings for the day she watched the clouds change their colours and watched the peaceful empty grounds. It was too early for anyone to be up so it was perfect time for her to relax before she was teaching her students. Just then something caught Fleetfoot’s eye on the cliff face. She landed on a cloud and focused her gaze on the thing that caught her eye. When she got a good look she saw it was Ash climbing up the cliff as if he was a spider.

“What is that crazy human doing now?” Fleetfoot thought to herself.

Fleetfoot leapt of her cloud and flew over to Ash. As she got closer she saw Ash’s wings were tied to his back with rope.

“What are you doing?” Fleetfoot asked.

“Whoa…Oh hey Fleetfoot and to answer your question I’m climbing,” I said almost losing my grip.

“I can see that but why you have wings,” Fleetfoot said.

“Flying can only do so much Fleet I need to keep every part of my body in shape. And frankly thanks to the flying I haven’t been climbing as much is I need to get back into that routine,” I replied.

“Fair enough then so what why are you up this early?” Fleetfoot asked.

“I normally do this sought of stuff at dawn. Also because my relief is coming so I don’t have classes but why are you here?” I asked.

“Relaxing before classes,” Fleetfoot said.

“Right hey I noticed a pretty interesting rock figure of a hydra on my way up here. The wind currents coming out of that monster’s mouth are crazy strong,” I said.

“Oh you must be talking about the hydra’s tonsils. It’s rumoured that in the belly there’s treasure but every flyer that went in wasn’t able to fly again. Not even the Wonderbolts dare to go in there because it’s too dangerous. I’ve never seen anyone go into the belly of that beast and come out with the treasure or unscratched,” Fleetfoot said.

“Sounds like a challenge,” I said with a grin.

“What do you mean?” Fleetfoot asked.

My response was me undoing the rope that tied my wings to my back and leaping of the cliff and flying off.

“He can’t be serious,” Fleetfoot said as she realized what was happening flew off.

I flew through the sky and came to the hydra's tonsils the statue was a naturally made sculpture of a hydras heads necks and body. One head was pointing straight up in the air with tunnel of wind came out of its mouth. I flew towards the mouth and gazed down the hole to see spikes running along the edges.

"This just went from fun to awesome," I thought.

I launched myself into the air and dived into the jaws the wind was insanely strong and I was in danger of being impaled on the spikes. I grabbed one of the spikes and climbed my way across it but the wind made things challenging for me. The conditions were perfect for me to train in parkor cause the wind blowing against me and the spikes within jumping distance. I jumped from spike to spike but, the wind caused me to miss my target or lose my grip a few times. But, I found solid footing again and as I neared the end the wind became stronger. It was hard to pull myself forward but by digging my metal fingers into the rock of the cave I found a tunnel that went off to the side. I pulled myself into the hole and relaxed my head was spinning, cause I was upside down in that tunnel for a long time and the blood was running to my head. I've hung upside down for long periods of time for training purposes but it still made me dizzy. I took a quick breather before I stood and looked around and saw a strange glow come from deeper within the tunnel. I followed the glow and rounded a corner to come to a small patch of roses. One half of the patch had yellow petals and was ablaze with golden fire and but didn't burn the roses. I brought my hand close to the flower but I didn't feel any heat coming from the fire. I placed my hand in the fire and removed it to see the fire gliding across my hands harmlessly before it disappeared. I then looked at the other half of the field to see faint blue glowing roses with midnight blue petals. Silver grey stars were on the petals and a bright white crescent moon was in the centre.

"Damn ain't this something but how are you lot like this," I said before I looked around and saw a pair of holes in the celling. Sunlight came through one of the holes and covered the half of the roses that were burning. "Wait a minute sunlight drifts in through one half of the cave and nurtures one half of the field in sunlight. So the other must be bathed in moonlight when the moon shines through the other hole. But, that's still not enough for the flowers to act this way," I said just then a strange glow came from the centre of the field my curiosity got the better of me and I walked toward the glow. Once I was at the spot I moved some flours out of the way to see the source of the glow. "Well that explains a lot," I said.

Outside Fleetfoot was flying around in circles waiting for Ash to show up.

"Ugh he should have been tossed out of there by now unless he actually made it to the centre and found the treasure it's either that or...No bad Fleetfoot you need to stay positive here I'll wait a few more minutes for him before I decide anything," Fleetfoot said as she hovered in place looking into the spiralling winds just then she heard a ruckus come from the Academy. She focused her gaze on the grounds and saw a tornado tearing the place apart. "Oh no that's not good I'd better go check to see if I can help...But If I leave I won't be able to see if Ash comes out or not," Fleetfoot was silent for a moment before she made her choice. "Just hang on Ash I'll be back along with help," Fleetfoot said as she took off.

Back in the Cave

I tucked the item into the satchel I brought with me before I decided to leave but then I thought about bringing a few roses along with me. I grabbed a bunch from each half and placed them into my satchel before I walked back to the entrance. I was met with the swirling winds from before and I figured how to get out of this safely. When no idea came to mind I decided to stuff everything and just jump into it. I placed my earphones in my ears and scrolled through the songs and hit play.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTCNkd6iEf4

I waited for the chores to kick in before I jumped into the swirling wind as soon as I jumped into it I was sent tumbling into the mess. I couldn't tell what was up or down so I extended my wings and managed to gain control. But I was quickly closing in on a spike and there wasn't enough time to turn so using my arms legs and parkor skills I was able to doge the spike along with several more. As I looked around I saw the winds and spikes made a spiral pattern that lead to the exit. Using my wings I flew to the edge of the wall and placed my feet on the wall and began to run across the wall. Following the wind while keeping my wings extended so I stay on the wall I also used my parkor skills to doge any obstacles in my path. As I ran I got faster and faster as I neared the exit I leapt of the wall and with one large flap of my wings I pulled off a shadowboom. I shot out of the hydras jaws like a cannon but I didn't stop I spread out my wings to form an air break. Once I reached the peak of the height the whole world stopped I leaned back and was plunging head first at the ground. I sent myself into a tail spin and looked at the academy and saw a twister about to wreck the place. I straightened out and pumped in more speed and flew at the tornado. I continued to fly at the tornado before I tucked my wings around me and turned myself a spinning arrow. I flew into the tornado and snapped my wings open creating a large past of wind going in different directions. The blast of wind made the tornado explode into a harmless gust of wind. I checked the area to see I destroyed the tornado and there were Pegasi cheering for me as I landed.

"Well that was one hell of a rush," I said as I looked at the spot where the tornado was.

"You jerk!" somepony yelled behind me before I felt pain in my right arm.

"Ow geez," I said rubbing my arm as I turned around to see Fleetfoot with an angry glare on her face. "What was that for?" I asked in pain and annoyance.

"That was for getting me to worry about you when you flew into the hydras tonsils I told you what happens when you go in there and yet you went in anyway. Also I wanted to be the one to discover the treasure in there," Fleetfoot said with a cute pout.

"Sorry to tell you this but there wasn't any treasure just some flowers but then again I didn't search the entire cave," I said.

"Flowers that’s it?" Fleetfoot asked with a disappointed tone.

"They weren't any ordinary flowers Fleetfoot here I'll show you," I said as I opened my satchel and pulled out one of the two flower types.

"Holy Celestia their beautiful," Fleetfoot said covering her mouth.

"Would you like one?" I asked.

"Oh I couldn't," Fleetfoot said.

"It's alright I have more," I said.

"Alright I'll take the blue one," Fleetfoot said.

"Cool my favourite of the two anyway," I said as I put the yellow one away and placed the blue rose behind Fleetfoot's ear.

"So you got a name for them?" Fleetfoot asked.

"Yeah I decided to call the blue ones moon roses and the yellow ones sun roses I know it's not exactly spectacular but it's the best I can think of," I said.

"I think it's perfect and thanks it's really beautiful," Fleetfoot said.

"You’re welcome now I need to find Rainbow Dash I can't wait to tell her I pulled off the impossible she'll totally flip," I said.

"I think she was heading to Spitfire's office for something," Fleetfoot said.

"Thanks I'll head over there now," I said before I flew off to the main building.

I walked through the corridors towards Spitfire's office and along the way cadets and instructors either saluted me or thanked me for stopping the tornado. I returned the words and salutes with a thanks and a nod and kept on walking. As I neared the office I saw the door was open so I could hear the conversation inside. I leaned against the wall and listened in on the conversation.

"A tornado is a bit excessive for cloud busting but judging by your time it was obviously an effective tactic," I heard Spitfire say

"Yeah well that effective tactic nearly took out my friends. No disrespect ma'am but there's a big difference between pushing yourself as hard as you can and just being reckless. And if being reckless is what gets rewarded around here if's that's what it means to be a Wonderbolt. Then I don't want any part of it," I heard Rainbow say.

"What are you saying newbie?" Spitfire asked.

"I quit," Rainbow said as she walked out.

Rainbow slammed the door behind her once she walked out and I saw she had tears in her eyes.

"That took guts," I said causing Rainbow to jump.

"Oh hey Ash," Rainbow said wiping her eyes.

"Want to tell me what's going on?" I asked.

"Only if we can walk and talk," Rainbow said.

"You did what," Applejack said.

Rainbow told me of what happened today and how the rest of the mane 6 and the stallions came to deliver a care package to Rainbow Dash and Thunderlane. But, while they were training Rainbow's partner unleashed a tornado and while our friends were in a hot air balloon. The group was caught in the tornado and were nearly killed. Thankfully everyone got out without any serious injuries.

"But being a Wonderbolt was your dream," Rarity said.

"Not anymore," Rainbow said.

"I'm sorry Rainbow Dash I know how much this meant to you," Twilight said placing a hand or Rainbow's shoulder.

"We all do," Soarin said.

"Rainbow Dash!"

Everyone turned their attention to see Spitfire walking over to us.

"How dare you storm out of my office without giving me a chance to respond the Wonderbolts are looking for the best flyers in Equestria. But you were right being the best should never come at the expense of or fellow ponies. It's not about pushing ourselves it's about pushing ourselves in the right direction you've shown your capable of doing just that," Spitfire said before she nodded to two instructors behind her. The instructors stepped to the side to reveal Rainbow's partner Lightning Dust which was the Pegasus I kept seeing with Rainbow. Lightning Dust stepped forward and Spitfire got in her face before she ripped a golden lightning bolt pin off Lightning's uniform before she was escorted away by the instructors. "You’re no wing pony Rainbow Dash you’re a leader," Spitfire said as she placed the pin on Rainbow's uniform.

"OhmygoshOhmygoshOhmygosh," Rainbow blurted out while fluttering her wings in excitement.

Spitfire smiled before her gaze fell on me "You could learn a thing or two about doing something reckless in future," Spitfire said.

"What do you mean captain?" Soarin asked.

"She's talking about when I went into the hydra's tonsils today," I said causing Thunderlane, Soarin and Rainbow to gasp.

“You did WHAT!” Rainbow screamed.

"Did you find the treasure?" Thunderlane asked excitedly.

I responded by opening up my satchel and showing them the roses causing the group to gasp.

"If this qualifies as treasure then yes," I said.

"There are no words," Rarity said with a sparkle in her eyes while she held her cheeks.

I handed some to our group for who ever wanted one before I walked over to Spitfire with a sun rose.

"I say this one suits you best," I said before I placed it in her hair.

"Thanks," Spitfire said as she touched the rose's petals I even thought I saw a hint of pink in her cheeks. "Ahem this doesn't mean you lot can slack off now you two get up there and give me 20!" Spitfire yelled at Rainbow and Thunderlane.

"Yes ma'am," the two said before they took to the sky.

I looked at our group and I saw both Soarin was looking at Rainbow and Rarity was looking at Thunderlane I put two and two together and smiled.

"Looks like we got two new sets of lovebirds," I said.

"Wha," Rarity and Soarin said shaken out of their staring.

"Soarin likes Rainbow and Rarity likes Thunderlane," I said.

The Pegasus and unicorn blushed before they nodded their heads slightly.

"Well what are you waiting for you dummy go ask the kid out before someone else does," Spitfire said.

"What now?" Soarin asked in shock

"Yeah and that's an order," Spitfire said.

"Alright wish me luck," Soarin said before he took off.

"What about you Rarity?" Twilight asked.

"I find it more romantic if the stallion asks the lady out," Rarity said giving her curls a flick.

"If you say so," I said as I walked over to the edge.

"Where are you going sugarcube?" Applejack asked.

"I'm heading back to Ponyville I just need to take care of something," I said as I stood on the edge

"Can we help with anything?" Comet asked.

"Afraid not really besides it's nothing big," I said without looking at the group.

"Well take care," Pinkie said with a wave.

I gave a small wave over my shoulder before I jumped off the edge and spread my arms in an eagle shape and fell. As I dived I did one front flip before I spread my wings and flew atop the clouds.

"Show-off!" I heard Spitfire shout out to me causing me to smile before I flew beneath the clouds.

"He was lying about something," Applejack said.

"What do you mean Applejack?" Fluttershy asked.

"That thing he said he was going to take care of that was a small thing he was lying," Applejack said.

"How do you know?" Spitfire asked.

"I'm the bearer of the element of honesty I know when somepony is lying to me," Applejack said proudly.

"Must come in handy," Spitfire said.

"Sure does but anyway Twilight what do you think we should do?" Applejack asked.

Twilight held a hand to her chin in thought.

"It may be for the best if we don't know," Twilight said.

"Are you sure Twilight?" Caramel asked.

"Yes you all remember when we asked about Ash's brand mark and what happened and how we wished we didn't find out when Rage told us," Twilight said getting sad looks from everyone. "If Ash has something hidden and he doesn't want to tell us then maybe it’s for the best."

"Eeyup," Mac agreed

"Brand mark is it the burn on his back?" Spitfire asked.

"How do you know about that?" Comet asked.

"I saw it on his back when we were sparing," Spitfire replied.

"Well we'd tell you Spitfire but it's Ash's story to tell and word of warning if he does tell you, you won’t like the answers," Twilight said.

I flew back towards Ponyville and arrived at home I greeted Feather Duster and Silver Tray and handed them both a rose which they were both ecstatic to see. They thanked me before I walked into my room and closed the door before I placed my satchel on my bed. I reached into it and pulled out a golden glowing sphere with strange lines and marks etched into it. I was told by Altair that this item was known as one of the Pieces of Eden this piece was known as one of The Apples of Eden.

“Now why are you here and how did you get here?” I thought.

Obviously the orb was silent so I tossed the Apple into the air before I caught it and walked over to my closet. I opened an empty draw and placed the Apple inside before I closed it before walked over to my satchel and picked it up and left. I walked out the door and was on my way to the florists to see if I can get the roses wrapped as a gift to Celestia and Luna. I walked over to the store and I saw a Roseluck standing outside tending to the flours. She was an earth pony mare with cream coloured fur and rose red mane and tail. She was also wearing a light green top and a cream dress and she had a single rose cutie mark on her shoulder.

“Hello Roseluck,” I said as I walked over to her.

“Ash I keep telling you to call me Rose everypony does,” Roseluck said.

I gave an unnoticeable frown at the request because the only one I called Rose was my wolf sister images of her flashed through my head I didn’t hear Roseluck.

“Hey Equis to Ash,” Roseluck said snapping her fingers in my face.

“Hm…Oh sorry Roseluck I was lost in thought,” I said.

“I can see that but I asked what I can help you with,” Roseluck said.

“Yeah was wondering if you could prep these for me to give as a gift to somepony,” I said as I pulled out the roses causing Roseluck to stare at them with wide eyes.

“Ash their beautiful where’d you get them?” Roseluck asked.

“It’s a long story and I’m afraid I don’t have time,” I said.

“Well whoever these are for you must really care about them right,” Roseluck said giving me a knowing smirk.

“Yeah anyway I’ll pay you extra if you can get it done by the end of the day,” I said I was glad I had my hood on so I was able to hide the red in my cheeks.

“I have a better idea you pay with bits like normal and if I can get these done by today I’ll consider 2 or 3 of each of these roses as the bonus. Cause I don’t think anywhere in Equestria has roses like these,” Roseluck suggested.

“Alright I’m down with that,” I said as I handed the roses to Rose.

“I’ll get started on these immediately,” Rose said

“See ya later Rose,” I said as I walked away.

I walked through Ponyville and decided to head over to Sweet Apple Acres so I followed the dirt path that lead to the homestead I walked up to the door and knocked three times and waited.

“Who is it?” Granny Smith asked.

“It’s Ash Granny Smith,” I responded.

“Oh hello Ash Applejack and Mac ain’t here if you were wondering but I hope Mac gets back cause that there roof on the barn needs a fixin,” Granny Smith said.

“How about I take care of it I was looking for something to preoccupy myself with,” I said.

“Oh that’s mighty kind of you the tools are in the barn,” Granny Smith said.

“I’ll get started on it right away,” I said.

During my time on the roof I was starting to get hot so I took off my jacket and shirt and hung them on the weather vane. A little while later as I just finished hammering a new plank into place Granny Smith brought out one of her famous apple pies and a knife to cut it with. She called me down I grabbed my jacket and shirt from off the weather vane and flew down. I walked over to a small table that had the tools box on it along with my satchel. Granny Smith walked over to the table set the pie on the table for me to enjoy. I placed my top and jacket on a stool before I walked over to Granny Smith.

“Thanks for helping with that roof Ash,” Granny Smith said.

It’s alright Granny Smith tell me do you know where Apple Bloom and her friends are I thought they’d be around here,” I said.

“Oh I sent those youngsters to grab something for me. They even told me that story you told them about that Robin fella,” Granny Smith said.

“Robin Hood yeah it’s quite a nice story isn’t it,” I said as I cut a slice of pie for Granny and myself but as a gentleman I handed a piece to Granny first.

“There you two are,” Granny said looking behind me.

I had a bite of the apple pie before I turned around and I saw both Applejack and Big Mac walking over.

“Sorry Granny we got a little distracted but I wasn’t expecting to see you here Ash,” Applejack said.

“I was actually looking for something to keep me busy and when Granny Smith mentioned the roof on the barn needs fixing. So I thought I’d might take care of the problem,” I said.

“Well thank ya kindly Ash but I’m afraid we don’t have the bits to pay you,” Applejack said.

“Applejack I couldn’t ask for anything more satisfying as payment. Then your Granny Smith’s apple pie so don’t worry about it,” I said.

“Eeyup,” Mac agreed.

“Anyway I’m almost done with the roof so you guys help yourself to the rest of the pie,” I said.

“Thanks Ash,” Applejack said.

I nodded to the pair before I flew onto the roof and started hammering away at the planks of wood. Suddenly I saw a flash come from an apple tree not too far away from the barn. I looked at the tree for anything but I couldn’t see anything rubbing it off as my head messing with me. I went back to hammering at the wood just then I saw Bonbon came running over to us.

“Hey Bonbon,” I called out to the mare.

Bonbon was wearing a hot pink skirt with three wrapped candies on it with a pink top and blue coat.

"Oh hey Ash," Bonbon greeted.

After nightmare night I went to go see if Bonbon and see how she was doing and found out she runs the local sweet shop in Ponyville. We bonded well and I discovered that Bonbon has a quick temper but she's always fun to be around.

"So what brings you around these parts?" Big Mac asked.

"I'm looking for Lyra she said she'd help me out with something but I can’t find her," Bonbon said.

I looked at the tree that I saw the flash came from before I sighed.

"Alright Lyra I know you’re in the tree so come on out!" I yelled.

I waited a few seconds before a few branches shook and Lyra jumped out of the tree with a camera around her neck. She placed her hands behind her back and drew a circle in the ground with her hoof and was offering a sheepish smile.

"Lyra we talked about this you can't keep secretly taking pictures of me the first few times I didn't mind but now it's getting ridicules," I said.

"Sorry Ash I am trying it's just hard to stop," Lyra said.

"Well you can't apologise to me this time you need to apologise to her," I said gesturing to an angry looking Bonbon.

Lyra walked over to Bonbon the look of sorrow and shame on her face.

"We'll talk about this later," Bonbon said before she looked at me "Sorry for the trouble Ash!" Bonbon called up to me.

"No problem Bonbon you two take care now," I said before they left.

After I fixed the roof I went to go grab Dust before I got the flowers from Roseluck. As agreed I gave her the payment for finishing them today before I left for home and had dinner. I sent the bundle of sun roses to Celestia and the night roses to Luna before I tucked Dust in and had a shower and got changed. I took the Apple of Eden out of the draw and sat on my bed and stared at it my eyes soon became heavy and I couldn't keep them open. Soon after I fell asleep with the Apple of Eden still in my grasp unknown to me the Apple of Eden started to glow.