Author's Notes:

Man, how long as it been. Well, forget the time, here it is. So yes, this chapter is kind of ahead of others in the mlp episode line up. But as I have said before, I will move around the episodes of mlp in any order that I think fits my story. So expect some more of this in the future. Now I should let you all read this amazing new chapter after such a long period of me not having an update. So enjoy, but one quick note. I'm using a program called Grammarly to edit my chapters. But if you see any problems, feel free to point them out. I accept all criticism. So enjoy this new chapter. As always: comment, like, follow, share and tell. See you all next time an update comes out.

Crusading (Edited)

Beep...beep...beep

The sound of the alarm clock was chiming off in Solar's and Twilight's room. Solar tried to bury his head in his pillow to drown out the sound of the infernal machine. But no matter how hard he tried, it would continue to make its awful noise at him.

Beep...beep...beep

Solar rolled over and picked up the beeping machine. He blinked a few times to get the sleep out of his eyes. It read 8 am. It's bloody 8 am in the morning. Why does school always have to start so early? I swear I should just homeschool my daughters. I have the knowledge to do so. I mean I was homeschooled for my whole life, well until I passed out of every class. But still, I just wish Twilight wasn't so persistent about a real school. He touched the snooze button and pulled the lever over to shut the thing off for good. He set it down and rolled himself out of bed.

"Get up Twilight; I'm not dealing with the girls this early in the morning alone." Said Solar

"I'm already up; I was just waiting to see how long before you got yourself up." Said Twilight

She got out of bed and stretched her body out as Solar did the same. He picked up the alarm clock and looked at it.

"I still swear you got this more for me than anything else." He said

"Maybe," She said with a wink.

"Ha, yeah," said Solar putting down the clock.

Twilight walked over and threw on her bathrobe. She looked down to see her stomach was coming out much more. Ha, I'm getting a fatter with each passing day. She looked over to see Solar putting on his morning workout uniform. It consisted of a pair of running shorts with his mother's cutie mark on each side of his pant legs. Then a white shirt with his cutie mark in the middle.

"See, if I didn't wake you up early. Then you wouldn't be able to get in your morning exercise routine." Said Twilight

"Ha, funny Twilight." He said

They both walked out of the room. Twilight went to get the girls, while Solar went to wake up Spike. He was still Twilight's assistant, and she still had plenty of things she had to do with him. As in her words, an early riser can do so much more in the day. Solar loved Twilight with all his heart, but her morning bird attitude was probably something he was never going to get used to as long as he lived with her. He chuckled to himself as he opened Spike's door.

Spike was all sprawled out on his bed. One of his legs was sticking out the side of bed. His head wasn't even on a pillow. He twitched here and there and would murmur Rarity's name. I still need to find him a girl to fantasize over in his age range. To think, I was the same way. He'll find a girl his age in time. He walked over and shook Spike. His eyes opened and looked up at Solar. He rubbed his eyes to remove the sleep in them and gave a large yawn.

"Solar, I guess it's time to get up." Said Spike

"You know it." Said Solar

Spike got up as Solar left his room. He walked down the stairs to the main library. Solar took a left from the staircase and found the kitchen. He saw Art already dressed with her backpack fully pack ready for her first day of school. She happily ate her cereal, Coco Charms. She smiled when she saw Solar come into the kitchen.

"Morning dad." She said

"Morning Art," said Solar ruffling up her mane. "So where's Night?"

"Here dad."

Solar looked back to see Night walking in. She was still trying to get herself up. Oh my poor bat daughter. Just like her father, not a morning pony at all. But once she gets something in her, she'll get going. It always worked with me, which reminds me. I should eat something. Solar grabbed his cereal as Spike came down and joined them.

"Well, you girls packed for your first day of school." Said Twilight

"Sure am." Said Art

"Yeah, but I'm still not too sure about this." Said Night

"Come on Night; Cheerilee was happy to teach you." Said Solar

"It's not that dad." Said Night

"Then what?" Asked Spike munching on some gems.

"I'm worried how the other students will treat me. I am the only bat here in Ponyville. I'm just afraid I won't make any friends." Said Night

"You don't have to worry about that. You have Apple Bloom and your sister." Said Solar

"Yeah, you have Apple Bloom and me as friends. Plus with being princesses, we should make plenty of friends." Said Art

"Now hold on there Art." Art looked up at Solar. "This goes for you to Night. I don't want either of you using your status as princesses in any way. You shouldn't make ponies like you because of who you are. Not mentioning ponies you make friends with using your state aren't always your real friends." Said Solar

"Really dad." Said Art

"Yes, I don't want to hear from Mrs. Cheerilee that you used your status in any way. Am I understood." Said Solar

"Ok, dad." Said Art

"Yes, dad." Said Night

"But wait, does that go for Uncle Spike too." Said Art

"Sure does honey." Said Solar

Spike cocked his head at Solar as he swallowed the gemstones in his mouth. "How did I get roped into all of this?"

"You've always been." Said Solar

"Well, somepony should have told me." Said Spike

"What your father is saying, is that we want to be treated like any normal pony. Even with our status as royalty. Now finish up girls, school is about to start." Said Twilight

Art and Night nodded and continued to eat their breakfast.

"Thanks, honey." Said Solar giving a kiss to Twilight

***

Solar walked in the morning air as his mother's sunlight began to warm the day. Art and Night walked ahead of him. Art was skipping as usually and Night was walking like any normal filly. She never liked to make herself the center of attention. Solar waved at the few store owners that were waking up and getting opened for the morning.

"Hey, Art and Night."

The trio looked over to see Apple Bloom running up to them. Art and Night meet her with a hug. It made Solar's heart feel so light as he looked at them. That is too damn cute. Anymore cute and it could kill somepony.

"So what are you doing out here Apple Bloom?" Asked Solar

"Walking tah school. Applejack lets me walk alone tah school." Said Apple Bloom

"Why didn't you let us do that dad?" Asked Art

"Because I want to make sure you both make it to school. After a while, your mother and I will consider it. But for know, you can expect me to take you to school." Said Solar

"Don't mind if I come along." Said Apple Bloom

"I see no reason why not, were all walking to the same destination." Said Solar

They all continued to walk forward. Solar kept his eyes on his girls as they walked. But he also kept his eyes open for Silent Killer. He wasn't sure when the third meeting would happen. But Solar wanted to be ready the second he sees the New Blood Assassin. I just hope I'm strong enough to beat this new form that Shining talked about. Solar slightly overheard the conversation his daughters were having with Apple Bloom.

"So Apple Bloom, do have a nickname." Said Art

"Not really." Said Apple Bloom

"Than how about we give you one, Apple Bloom just seems like a mouthful to say every time. Now as friends, we should make you a nickname we can use around you." Said Art

"How about AB?" Asked Night

"That's perfect, what do you think Apple Bloom." Said Art

"It's perfect, AB it is." Said Apple Bloom

Soon the one-story schoolhouse came into view. Fillies and colts ran into the school as class was about to begin. The group stopped a few feet from the school and Solar bent down and ruffled his daughter's manes.

"Now you two have a good day." He said

"Dad, can we play with AB after school." Said Art

"I see no reason why not, just make sure you all stay together." Said Solar

"Thanks, dad." Said Art

"Come on or were goin' tah be late." Said Apple Bloom

The three little fillies ran off to the school, but Night came back and gave her dad a kiss on the cheek before moving back in. He laughed to himself. I better make sure Twilight knows that the girls are going to spend the day with Apple Bloom. Now it's time that I get to my work out. Solar put in his headphones and began to run off on his morning work out.

The three fillies entered the schoolhouse and went for the first three open desks. The order was Apple Bloom, Art and Night. Some of the kids looked back at Art and Night. Art just smiled as Night tried to make herself as tiny as possible. She felt all the eyes were on her. She could easily see she was the only bat in the whole school. Not something she exactly liked.

"I wish I wasn't here." Said Night

"Come on Night; it isn't all bad." Said Art

"Yeah, ya got us." Said AB

"Thanks." Said Night

"Now who let the freaks into the school."

The three fillies turned their eyes to two fillies. First up was a filly with a magenta coat and violet mane with a white streak in it. She was an earth pony as no horn or wings were present on her. Her eye color was a cornflower blue. Her cutie mark was a diamond tiara which also sat on her head. She was wearing a pinkie dress with diamonds around the bottom of it. Next was yet another earth pony. She had a gray coat. Her mane was two tones of gray, one lighter than the other stripping through it. Her mane was placed up in a ponytail. She had violet eyes, which were behind a pair of opal glasses. Her cutie mark was a silver spoon with a heart next to the handle. A pearl necklace sat around her neck. She was also in a dress; it was colored like her coat with silver spoons on the lower rim of it.

"Oh yes, Diamond."

"I never thought that this school would let a blank flank, a worthless bat and a filly who looks like she had paint thrown on her in."

"So funny Diamond."

The two walked away laughing at the three fillies. Night was just continuing to try to hide. Apple Bloom and Art were scolding the two fillies. Art then turned to her sister to see she was uneasy about everything. Art bent down and placed her hand on her shoulder. Night looked up at Art's smiling face, which pulled herself back into her seat.

"Who were those two fillies?" Asked Night

"Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. They think there so high and mighty because they're rich." Said AB

"That just burns me up; I bet they wouldn't be so mean to us if they knew who our father was." Said Art

"Art, you heard dad, he doesn't want us to use our status in any way." Said Night

Art gave a sigh as the bell began to ring. Cheerilee then walked in, closing the door behind her.

"Morning class." She said

"Morning Mrs. Cheerilee." Said the students in unison.

"Nice to see everypony is up and ready. Now before we begin our first lesson of the school year, we should introduce two new students to our class. If those fillies would stand up and give us their names." Said Cheerilee

Art was the first up. She gave a big smile like nothing was wrong. "I'm Art Paint, but Art is just fine with me."

Night still wasn't as ready for this. She still was the only bat in the whole class, but with a smile from her sister and friend, she got up. She looked at the class. She felt like she was going to fall over and make a fool of herself, but she was able to force herself to talk.

"I'm Night Glow, though I go by the name Night." She said

She quickly sat down and sunk in her seat, trying to hide from all the disapproving stares she was getting. Why do I have to be a bat? She felt her sister grab her shoulder. She looked back over and gave a sigh as she sat upright in her seat.

"Welcome, both of you two to our class. I know everypony will accept them to this school. Now let's begin with our first lesson for the year. As a lot of you probably discover this summer, you received your cutie marks." The class began to murmur to each other showing off their cutie marks. Apple Bloom just grumbled to herself. "Well, now we get to talk about them."

"Bo-ring." Said Diamond

Cheerilee pulled up a set of charts. She pulled one down to show her as a filly. "You all have seen my cutie mark, but I was like you. Like all ponies born, we have no cutie mark."

"Aww...! She's so precious." Said a student

"Thank you Twist, I sure was a precious when I was a filly." Said Cheerilee

"Please, I was cuter when I was born." Said Diamond

Art just looked over her shoulder to see Diamond and Silver Spoon not giving a care about Cheerilee's lesson. They sure are stuck up. Reminds me of the ponies of Canterlot that would come into the orphanage. Art went back to listening to Mrs. Cheerilee's talk. She looked over to see AB taking notes on the subject Cheerilee was teaching.

"Then one day, I woke up to find a cutie mark had appeared." She flipped to the next board to show herself in what looked to be the eighties of Equestria. The class laughed at the picture.

"Look at her mane." Said a student

"Yes, but everypony had their mane like that back then. But from that moment on, I knew I was destined to be a teacher. The flowers symbolize my hope that I can help my future students bloom if I nurture them with knowledge. The smiles represent the cheer I hope to bring to my little ponies while they are learning. Now, can anypony tell me when a pony gets his or her cutie mark." Said Cheerilee

The filly Twist, raised her hand waiting to be called on.

"Yes, Twist." Said Cheerilee

"When he or she discovers that certain something that makes them special!" Said Twist

"Right Twist, a cutie mark appears when the pony discovers what makes them different than every other pony. Discovering what makes you special isn't something that happens overnight, and no amount of hoping, wishing, or begging, will make a cutie mark appear before it is time." Said Cheerilee

"Please." Said Diamond

As Cheerilee began to talk about other stuff, Art felt something hit the back of her head. She ignored it as she was trying to pay attention to class. She kept feeling it happen ever so often. She could only take so much of it. That's it! She turned around and felt a paper ball hit her in the face as Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon laughed at her. She had enough of them.

"Will you two stop!" Said Art

"Art Paint!" Said Cheerilee

Art felt her body go stiff as she looked at Cheerilee who was gently tapping her hoof on the floor of the school house. She could see and hear that Cheerilee wasn't too happy with her.

"Now what do you have to say little one." Said Cheerilee

"Um...um...sorry Mrs. Cheerilee." Said Art

"Now that's better, I have better not see another outburst like that from you." Said Cheerilee

The class snickered a little at her. Now she felt like her sister and want to try to disappear. But before she could, she felt another ball of paper hit her head. Diamond and Silver just stuck their tongues at her as they giggled at her. Art just turned around and growled under her breath as not to get in any more trouble. I do not like those two at all. Art sighed as she paid attention and hoped that they would leave her alone for the rest of the school day.

***

The bell rang as all the fillies and colts ran out of the schoolhouse. Cheerilee waved goodbye as they all left. The trio walked from the school over to Apple Bloom's family farm. They had decided to go there to hang out.

"Oh that Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. That sure get under your fur." Said Art

She was still mad that at the first day of her first official school day, she was called out by the teacher. She felt so ashamed and embarrassed. But she felt more anger towards them.

"I mean, they were the ones who started it. They were throwing the papers balls at me. But no, I'm the one who gets called out. I'm just happy Cheerilee won't tell mom and dad," said Art giving a sigh.

"Yeah, those two think they rule Ponyville because they're rich." Said AB

"Well look who we got here."

The trio stopped as they looked to see Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon walking up. AB and Art growled as Night just swallowed the lump in the throat.

"We have a blank flank, art mess, and stupid bat." Said Silver

"I don't know why we had to sit through a lecture about getting a cutie mark. I mean, waiting for your cutie is soo last week," Said Diamond showing off her cutie mark with Silver.

"So true Diamond." Said Silver

"We have our cutie marks and the class has theirs, wait almost. Don't worry, I'm sure it will appear, one day. But still, you're totally invited to my cute-ceañera." Said Diamond

"It's going to be amazing." Said Silver

"What's a cute-ceañera?" Asked Art

"It's a party celebrating me and my fantastic cutie mark. I mean, just look at it," said Diamond showing her cutie off again, making the trio roll their eyes.

"It will be the best party money will buy." Said Silver

"Oh, how could I forget that." Said Diamond

"Bump! Bump! Sugar-lump, rump!" Said Diamond and Silver as they did a little dance with their bodies.

"Oh please." Said Art

"Gimme a break." Said AB

Night just stayed silent.

"See this weekend..." Said Silver

"Freaks!" Said Diamond and Silver as they laughed walking away.

"Oh, they just make me so mad." Said Art

"Sis, you should calm down." Said Night

"Please Night, they were stepping right over us like we were doormats. Why if I could have used our status, they wouldn't be that way to us." Said Art

"That sure would have put them in their place." Said AB

"I guess." Said Night

"Well, at least we won't have to see them one more time before this party." Said Art

"Yeah, I hope ya two enjoy." Said AB

"What do you mean AB?" Asked Night

"Well ya two have your cutie marks, I'm still a blank flank." Said AB

"Please AB, you'll find your cutie mark. Even I and Night will help you find it." Said Art

"You will." Said AB

"We will." Said Night

"Yeah, then when the party comes, we can strut in and show that Diamond Tiara what for." Said Art

"Ya really mean it." Said AB

"Yeah, we do right Night." Said Art

"Yeah." Said Night

"Thanks, now let's go get my cutie mark." Said AB

The trio cheered as they walked off forgetting all about Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

***

The trio sat on the playground as they heard Apple Bloom's idea. Art and Night were nearby as the school week and day was coming to an end. The reason was that school began on Thursday and finished on Friday. Cheerilee believed it was the best way to get the young ones integrated into school before an official school week.

"So what do ya girls think?" Asked AB

"So have a sleepover at your place. Then tomorrow we go to the market with your sister and try to get your cutie mark in selling apples." Said Art

"That's right, so what do ya girls think." Said Apple Bloom

"It sounds fun, it can be our official first sleep over." Said Art

"Sounds fun, but I don't know why we are trying to sell apples." Said Night

"Night think of it this way. Our cutie marks are in art and music. But after we find our cutie marks, we never try other stuff. Why not try to see what it's like to sell apples." Said Art

"That could be interesting." Said Night

"So ya two in." Said Apple Bloom

"Yeah, we are." Said Art

"So when should go and ask your parents." Said Apple Bloom

"Our mother is picking us up today, we can ask her when she comes by." Said Art

Soon the bell rang for recess to finish up. They went in and finished up the school day. After that, the bell rang for school to officially end. The trio ran out of school. Twilight was standing in an area waiting for her daughters. Soon the three came up and Twilight gently bent down to hug her daughters.

"So how was school?" She asked

"It was great, mom. But we have something to ask you." Said Art

"That would be." Said Twilight

"Could we have a sleep over at Apple Bloom's this weekend." Said Night

"Is Applejack ok with this Apple Bloom." Said Twilight

"Yeah, my sis and family are completely fine with it." Said AB

"Well, I see no reason why not." Said Twilight

"Thanks." Said Night and Art

Art and Night said goodbye to Apple Bloom and went back to the library to pack their bags.

***

The trio was walking with Applejack as she pulled an apple cart behind her. They stopped and Applejack began to set up everything to sell apples. Art and Apple Bloom would sell apples. Applejack would take the money and Night would just play some nice violin music to bring ponies in.

"Well, that will do it. Night ya begin to play when ya ready. Also, thanks for playing. Your music always seems to bring in ponies." Said Applejack

"No problem Applejack." Said Night

Night picked up the violin and began to tune it. She placed it on her shoulder and closed her eyes. Her mind began to play the notes for the song. She touched the bow to the strings and began to translate those notes in her mind into live music.

"Now that's some music." Said Applejack

The music of Night's violin started to bring ponies to the market. They would watch Night and stare at the apple crop from the apple family farm.

"Get your apple here." Said Applejack

"Yes, the world's greatest apples." Said Art

"Delicious and nutritious, and so many uses." Said AB

"What type of uses Apple Bloom?" Asked Art

"Great question Art, you can eat them." Apple Bloom took a bit of one and swallowed it. "You can also play with them."

Art took out a bat and Apple Bloom grabbed an apple. She underhand tossed it to Art. Art waited for it to get close before nailing it out of the park. It went sky high.

"Watch it!" Screamed a pony in the market.

"Also it is great for art." Said Art

Art pulled out an easel with a fresh blank canvas. She took out a set paints. Apple Bloom stood holding two apples, on in each hand and posed for Art. Art began to paint Apple Bloom. It didn't take long for Art to have a great picture. Ponies clapped for her art skills. She blushed at the kindness she was receiving. Apple Bloom placed down the apples as she left.

"Creative bunch." Said Applejack

Art and Apple Bloom were off trying to sell apples while Night continued to play away. Applejack just stood collecting money. Apple Bloom stopped an earth pony stallion walking by. He had a brown coat with a dark brown mane. His eyes were cobalt blue. He had an hourglass cutie mark. He was in a nice brown suit with a white undershirt and a green bowtie.

"Hey sir, want tah buy some apples." Said Apple Bloom

"Sorry, but no." He said

"Why not?" Asked Apple Bloom

"Because I have plenty of apples back home." He said

"Are you sure?" Asked Apple Bloom

"Yes, I am." He said

"Are you really super-duper sure. I mean, are positively sure that you don't need more apples." Said Apple Bloom slowly inching into the stallion's personal space.

He swallowed before answering Apple Bloom. "If I buy some, will you leave me alone."

"Yes!" She said

"Then I'll take some." He said

"Thank you, sir." She said

We walked up and bought a few apples. He gave his money to Applejack before bolting away. Applejack picked up his money to see that he needed change.

"Sir, you forgot your change." But the stallion was already gone. "That was weird."

Art was able to pull herself from the crowd of ponies that had formed around her. She walked up to see AB had a big smile on her face.

"Why you so happy?" Asked Art

"I just sold some apples. I'm a natural apple seller. Now I wonder what my cutie mark will be like. You think it could be a bag full of apples or maybe a customer getting an apple. Hmm...but first I need to increase my sales. I know, a touch it, you buy it kind of deal. We happily take cash or credit." Said AB

"I'm not sure that's the right way to get your cutie mark." Said Art

"If sellin' is goin' to be my cutie mark. Then I have to increase sell figures." Said AB

"I guess." Said Art

"Just watch this Art." Said AB

Apple Bloom saw another earth pony walking her way. This one was a mare. She had a cream coat with a two-toned mane. It was made up of cobalt and a pink strip. She had a three pieces of candy with blue and yellow striped wrappers around them. She was wearing a simple blue dress with a shopping bag in one of her hands. Apple Bloom picked up a few apple out of the cart.

"Um AB, I'm not too sure that's the right idea of selling." Said Art

"Oh please Art, just watch the master at work." Said Apple Bloom

"If you say so." Said Art

Apple Bloom snuck up to the lady and dropped in a few apples. She then snuck back to Art and winked. Art just rubbed her arm feeling uneasy about this all. Applejack was dealing with her own customers to figure out what was going on. Apple Bloom cleared her throat and walked to the mare.

"Ma'am I see you have some of my families apples in your bag. That'll be four bits." Said AB

The mare looked down to her bag to see apples in it. "I didn't put any apples in my bag."

"Likely story, but still four bits." Said AB

"I told you, I never put these apples in my bag." Said the mare

"I'm sure they didn't get in your bag by themselves. So that'll be four bits." Said Apple Bloom

Applejack could see the fight going on between her sister and the mare. She made her way over to the two of them.

"Is there a problem Bon Bon." Said Applejack

"Yes, four apples appeared in my bag. Your sister here is trying to tell me I have to pay for them." Said Bon Bon

"Well she does, she has them in her bag. So by our new sale slogan, you touch it, you buy it." Said Apple Bloom

"We don't have that sale slogan. I'm sorry Bon Bon, she's new to the business. You can take them for free." Said Applejack

"Thank you Applejack for seeing the truth." Said Bon Bon

Bon Bon left while Art stepped up to the sisters. Applejack just sighed as she looked down at her sister.

"Sis that ain't any way to sell apples. So I think your apple sellin' days are over."Said Applejack

"But come on sis, this is the way for me to get my cutie mark." Said Apple Bloom

"Forcing ponies to buy our apples is no way to sell our apples." Said Applejack

"But without my cutie mark, I can't go to Diamond's party." Said Apple Bloom

"I know you want a cutie mark bad sis, but that was no way to do it. Waiting for a cutie mark is hard, but we all find it in due time. But I don't think sellin' is your talent. Why not go home and see what else you can find." Said Applejack

"Ok sis, you comin' with Art." Said AB

"Yeah just let me Night." Said Art

Art went over and tapped Night. She stopped playing and Art told her everything. She placed her violin back in its case. The two returned to Apple Bloom as they returned to the farm. Applejack gave a sigh before walking back to the cart.

***

Apple Bloom, Art and Night were walking trying to think of stuff for Apple Bloom to do to find her cutie mark. They each were deep in thought they didn't see the cyan pegasus, Rainbow Dash, land in front of them.

"What are you three up to?" She asked

The three looked to see Rainbow. Apple Bloom was the first to answer Rainbow's question.

"We're tryin' to find my cutie mark. We were in the market, but sellin' apples aren't my life." Said Apple Bloom

"Wait, Art, you and Night already have your cutie marks." Said Rainbow

"Yeah, but were helping AB find hers. Plus try some stuff here and there." Said Art

"Cause once you got a cutie mark, you really stick to that cutie mark. So you never really get to do other things." Said Night

"Never thought of it like that. Man, you have to be Solar's and Twilight's daughters to think like that." Said Rainbow

"Well anyway, we have to find my cutie mark because Diamond Tiara's cute-ceañera this afternoon and I don't want to be the only student without a cutie mark." Said Apple Bloom

"Hm, well I guess I dropped in at the right time. I can help you get a cutie mark in a snap." Said Rainbow

"But Applejack says these things take time." said Apple Bloom

"Yeah, Applejack would say something like that. But believe me when I say I can do it. I was the first one in my class to her cutie mark. So I can easily get yours." Said Rainbow

"Really." Said Apple Bloom

"Yeah, by the time of my first race, I learned my need for speed. The next thing I knew, KAZAM, I have this baby." Said Rainbow showing off her cutie mark

"Hm, well what do you think AB." Said Night

"I think this is my best shot. You girls still behind me." Said AB

"You know it." Said Art as Night nodded her head.

"Alright Rainbow, show me how to get my cutie mark." Said AB

"Sweet now come along, we go a lot to do." Said Rainbow

***

"Alright first, you need to get all limber and loose. We can't start without a good stretch." Said Rainbow

The trio had walked out to a field to help Apple Bloom. Art and Night were going to watch and cheer on AB as she worked for her cutie mark. Art was holding a clipboard of items Rainbow was going to put AB through. Night looked over the list and looked up at her sister. They shrugged as they waited for AB to get ready.

"You ready kid." Said Rainbow

"I'm ready." Said Apple Bloom

"One of these activities has to lead to your cutie mark. So let's get started." Said Rainbow

"Go AB!" Said Art

"Yeah, you can do it!" Said Night

"First up, juggling, go!" Said Rainbow

She blew a whistle and Apple Bloom began to juggle. It looked like she was getting good at it. But as she was getting good, something started to go wrong. She couldn't keep it up. She dropped everything to the ground. The trio sighed as Rainbow moved onto the next thing.

"Hand-gliding, go!" Said Rainbow

AB placed on the hang glider as she moved to a cliff. The wind was perfect. Rainbow blew her whistle and AB ran for it. Art and Night watched as she slowly started to reach the cliff. Night covered her eyes as not to see the outcome. But the only outcome was that when Apple Bloom was going to jump for it, she tripped up instead and feel onto her back. Rainbow shook her head as Art and Night let out the breath they were holding.

"Alright, karate, go!" Said Rainbow

They were now in a dojo now. Rainbow blew her whistle and Apple Bloom jumped into the air. She gave a battle cry as she stretched out her leg to strike the bag. But when she hit the bag, nothing happened. The force was only sent up her leg and she fell to the floor with the others looking over her. Rainbow sighed as they moved on the next item.

"Kite-flying, go!" Said Rainbow

Once outside again, the wind perfect once again. Apple Bloom took out a kite and let it soar into the blue sky. Nothing was going wrong. The trio cheered, but they instantly took it back. A strong gust of wind took the kite higher in the sky. Apple Bloom was carried off into the sky as she wasn't strong enough. Rainbow shot up into the sky and brought her back down to the earth bellow. Night and Art looked at each other before marking another item off the chart. They followed Rainbow to yet another area.

"Ultrapony Roller Derby, go!" Said Rainbow

Apple Bloom stood on the roller rink with other filles. She gulped as she looked at her friends. She watched as the ref got on the rink. He blew his whistle and everypony went. Apple Bloom thought she had it, but quickly learned why she didn't as she was pushed into a wall. The gang just hissed in pain. Rainbow went over and picked up Apple Bloom before exiting the arena.

***

"Well sorry kid, it looks like we tried everything I can think of." Said Rainbow

"Well, it was interesting to watch." Said Night

"I'm doomed. Doomed! I'll never find sumth'n I'm good at." Said AB

"You like you would be good at eating cupcakes."

Everypony looked to see Pinkie was looking over the trio.

"Eating cupcakes." Said Rainbow

"Yeah, who doesn't love to eat cupcakes. Oh, cupcakes." Said Pinkie drooling a little.

"I never thought of eating a certain item as a talent." Said Art

"Actually, that doesn't sound like a bad idea. I thank ya Rainbow for helpin' me out. But I think I'm goin' tah follow Pinkie's idea. Come on girls, we have cupcakes to eat." Said AB

"Oh, this is going to be fun." Said Pinkie

The gang left Rainbow as they followed Pinkie to Sugar Cube Corner.

***

"I can't I believe I didn't think of this earlier. It was right in front of us the whole time." Said Apple Bloom

"Though I still haven't heard of a cutie mark dealing with eating food." Said Art

"Plus where are the cupcakes." Said Night

"Yeah, Pinkie how can I eat cupcakes if I don't have cupcakes." Said Apple Bloom

"I don't have any, but you three look like you are great at helping me make them." Said Pinkie

"Baking huh, yeah that would be the perfect cutie mark for the farm." Said Apple Bloom

"So what do we have to do." Said Art

"All you have to do is follow this song." Said Pinkie

"Song." Said Night

"That's right. Now follow along." Said Pinkie

They listened to Pinkie and did exactly what she was saying. Though she was fast, the girls still got it. They each placed cupcakes into the oven and waited it out. Soon the timer went off and they brought each batch out. But Apple Bloom would keep going at it. She pulled out her latest batch, but it wasn't any better.

"They look a little better than your last batch." Pinkie threw one in her mouth and started to chew. But her face changed as the cupcake taste hit her tongue. "Mmm..." She forced herself to swallow the cupcake.

"Forget, I'm not a baker." Said AB

"Don't worry AB, I'm pretty sure I'm not to." Said Night

"What happened here?"

They looked to see Twilight and Solar coming in. Art and Night went up to give their mother and father a hug.

"We've been making cupcakes. Want some." Said Pinkie

The two looked at the cupcakes. Solar picked up one and threw it in his mouth. He chewed it and swallowed. Twilight just looked at him.

"What, there not half bad." Said Solar

"Those are mine dad." Said Art

"Well did you make some Night." Said Solar

"Yeah." She handed Solar one of hers and he threw it in his mouth. But the second he started chewing, he wanted to spit it out. But not to upset his daughter, he swallowed the cupcake.

"That tasted great honey." He said

"Thanks, dad." Said Night

Solar lend into Twilight's ear. "Remind me to teach her cooking. She has the skill level you do."

"I thought you liked my cooking." She whispered

"Sometimes honey, sometimes." He said

"So why were you girls cooking cupcakes?" Asked Solar

"We're helping Apple Bloom get here cutie mark." Said Night

"Why?" Asked Twilight

"Because today is Diamond Tiara's cute-ceañera. I'm the only one in my class without a cutie mark and I really want one for the party today. So we first tried sellin' apples, but that didn't work out. Rainbow then helped me, but that didn't help. Now we tried baking and still nothin'." Said Apple Bloom

"Well, cutie marks are earned when a pony finds what makes them special. No matter what, it only can come in time." Said Solar

"Ya sound like my sis and Cheerilee." Said Apple Bloom

"Wait, dad your smart right." Said Art

"Well, yes." He said rubbing his neck.

"Couldn't you use magic to make AB's cutie mark appear." Said Art

"I hadn't thought of something like that before." Said Solar

"Oh please, magic can do a lot of things. But creating a cutie mark is just not possible." Said Twilight

"Why?" Asked Solar

"Because you would have already learned how to do it." Said Twilight

"Well, Twilight my love. Magic is all theory with one basic law. I bet I can create a cutie mark for Apple Bloom right here." Said Solar

"Oh really, want to make that a true bet." Said Twilight

"You're on honey, what's at stake." Said Solar

"If I win, you buy me double my order and you spend next week cleaning the library. But if you win, then I'll deal with the girls, so you and Spike can go to that Yu-Gi-Oh tournament in Canterlot." Said Twilight

"Hm, deal honey. Now get ready to watch the master at work." Said Solar

"Oh please, Pinkie can you double my order of cupcakes." Said Twilight

"You got it Twilight." Said Pinkie

"Alright, Apple Bloom show me your hands." Said Solar

Apple Bloom showed Solar the top of her hands to him. Solar created his fire and enveloped it around Apple Bloom's hands. He slowly started to concentrate his magic. An image appeared on Apple Bloom's hand. She smiled, but it quickly disappeared and Solar sighed.

"Giving up, Solar." Said Twilight

"Please, that was just my first attempt." Said Solar

Solar once again pushed his body and mind to give Apple Bloom a cutie mark. multiple cutie marks appeared on her hands, but they all disappeared. Each one strained Solar's magic. He kept trying as Twilight watched with a smile on her face as Pinkie came up with two boxes of cupcakes. She opened one and licked her lips. I never thought in my wildest dreams I would be craving sweets more than anything else. Sure shows what I know about my pregancy. She finally saw Solar give up as he sighed.

"I guess magic really can't give a pony their cutie mark." Said Solar

"I thought you would have researched the theory of cutie marks in your free time." Said Twilight

"No, I never truly found a reason to do it. But thinking about it, that doesn't sound like a bad idea. But I guess I lost." He said

"You sure did. I hope you love cleaning the library. But since you are so lovable, I'll still let you and Spike go the tournament next weekend." Said Twilight

"Well, thank you, my love. I guess we'll see you girls at home. And Apple Bloom." Apple Bloom looked up at Solar. "I now you want your cutie mark now, but you can't rush stuff like this. You will see in time that all good things come to those who wait."

"Very true." Said Twilight stuffing her face with a cupcake.

"Couldn't wait till we got home." Said Solar

"Nope." Said Twilight

Solar paid for the cupcakes and walked out with Twilight tossing another cupcake in her mouth. Art and Night went up to their friend as she gave a heavy sigh. She began to leave Sugar Cube Corner with Art and Night right behind her. They exited the kitchen only to hear music and talking. They looked up to see the man part of Sugar Cube Corner was dressed up like a party. The three froze as they realized everything.

"Oh no, the party." Said Apple Bloom

"Wait, it was going to be here at Sugar Cube Corner." Said Art

"That's right, this is party central." Said Pinkie

"This is bad." Said Apple Bloom

"I sure don't like this." Said Night

"Alright calm down you two. Look, we haven't been spotted yet. We still can sneak out." Said Art

The two nodded and slowly started to make their way to the exit of the shop. They were nearly out of the party when they heard a voice call them out. They all froze up like crazy.

"I'm actually amazed." Said Diamonds.

"That the freaks are here." Said Diamond and Silver together.

Art growled as she still had a grudge with Diamond. Apple Bloom hid her hands while growling. Night just stayed behind her sister not wanting to get into a fight with Diamond or anypony in the room. Diamond walked forward with Silver Spoon behind her. The trio backed up slowly towards the door.

"Where you three going?" Asked Diamond

"Don't you want to stay for the party." Said Silver

"We have plans." Said Art

"Oh is that now. So, Apple Bloom did you get your cutie mark." Said Diamond

"Come on, you don't have to be mean." Said Night

"Oh, the bat can talk." Said Diamond

"Leave my sister out of this." Said Art

"Oh your sisters, well that just fits together. Stupid bat and art mess, a perfect match." Said Diamond

Art growled more at Diamond with Night behind her with tears in her eyes. Oh I wish I could beat the snot out of her. Apple Bloom got in front of Art and Night.

"No Diamond I didn't." Said Apple Bloom

"Oh, that means..." Said Diamond

"You're still a blank flank." Said Diamond and Silver

"You all perfect for each other. The freak crew." Said Diamond.

"What's the problem with that?"

Everypony's attention was brought over to the entrance to Sugar Cube Corner. In came two fillies. The first was a pegasus with an orange coat and a purple mane. She had purple colored eyes. She was wearing a pair of jean shorts with holes in them and a plain t-shirt. She didn't have a cutie mark on her hands either. The next was a unicorn. She had a white coat with a mulberry mane with a light rose streak. Her eyes were harlequin in color. She was wearing an aquamarine dress. She also didn't have a cutie mark on hands.

"I asked, what is the problem with that." Said the filly pegasus

"Yeah, even though they are freaks. What you call being a freak makes them special." Said the filly unicorn

"Well who asked you." Said Diamond

"When you talk bad about those who are like us." Said the pegasus

"Huh." Said Silver

"Their blank flanks." Said Apple Bloom

"I swore you were the only one." Said Night

"I thought the same thing." Said Apple Bloom

"Well, we thought we were the only two." Said the unicorn

"But why to help them, if you don't even now them." Said Diamond

"Because we freaks stick together." Said the unicorn

They joined Art, Night and Apple Bloom. They were now five strong against Diamond and Silver. Night wiped her tears and walked past the group. She was tired of being scared.

"You see that Diamond that is what it means to have true friends. We may have our differences, but those differences are what make us special. That's why we stick together." Said Night

"Go, Night." Said Art

"I like this bat." Said the pegasus

Diamond only growled as Night walked back to the group. "Well, you will always be freaks." Said Diamond

"We don't care Diamond. Because that's what makes us special. So no matter what you say, we will always stand together as one." Said Apple Bloom

Diamond growled before walking off. She didn't see a cupcake wrapper on the floor. She slipped on it and fell into a table. A set of cupcakes were sent into the air and landed on her. The room started to laugh at her position. The crew laughed at her before looking at each other.

"Thanks for coming to our help." Said Art

"Hey no problem, we don't like Diamond bullying those like us." Said the pegasus

"But I and my sister, Art, have our cutie marks." Said Night

"But you are like us, you are different." Said the unicorn

"So what's your names." Said Art

"I'm Scootaloo." Said the pegasus

"I'm Sweetie Belle." Said the unicorn

"The names Art Paint, but Art is fine."

"I'm Night Glow, but I go by Night."

"Apple Bloom, but I go by the nickname AB."

"So should we sit." Said Art

"Sure." Said Sccootaloo

While the party was going on the gang talked with each other. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were impressed that Night and Art were the daughters to the prince, which made them official princesses of Equestria.

"I can't believe in our class, we have two princesses." Said Scootaloo

"But why didn't you tell Diamond about it?" Asked Sweetie

"Because our dad doesn't want us to use our status to influence those around us." Said Art

"So you're completely blind, Art." Said Scootaloo

"That's right, but in a strange way, I can see. But I can't really explain it." Said Art

"So I guess were all friends here." Said Apple Bloom

"I see no reason why we aren't. We all stood together against Diamond Tiara. So yes, we are friends." Said Scootaloo

"You know, we are kind of like a society and as a society, we should have a name." Said Art

"I like that idea." Said Scootaloo

"But what should be our name?" Asked Night

"The Cutie Mark five." Said Scootaloo

"The Cutastically Fantastics." Said Sweetie

The other looked at Sweetie as she blushed. Apple Bloom coughed to get the attention onto her.

"How about...The Cutie Mark Crusaders?" Said Apple Bloom

"That's it!" Said Art

"This is going to be great." Said Sweetie

"Yeah." Said Scootaloo

"It looks like we have some true friends here, sister." Said Art

"We really do." Said Night

"So with you three searching for your cutie marks, I and Night will help you find it." Said Art

"Yeah, but it will also allow us to try new things." Said Night

"Oh yeah, this group is going to be awesome." Said Scootaloo

"So how about we celebrate." Sad Sweetie

"Yeah, I can get us some cupcakes." Said Scootaloo

"Actually, we should skip the cupcakes. Just trust me on that." Said Apple Bloom

"How about some cookies?" Asked Art

"Yeah." Said the others

"Well let's go find some." Said Art

The gang got off their seats and went looking for cookies.

***

As Sunday approached, Art and Night came home. They told Solar and Twilight everything that had happened. They were happy that the two were making friends and never once used their status to do it. Plus that they stood up to a bully who was name calling them. After dinner, Solar put them down for bed as tomorrow was a school night. He stretched as he went upstairs. He saw Twilight writing something on a scroll.

"Writing your friendship lesson." Said Solar

"Yes." She said

Solar got into his boxers and slipped under the covers.

"So you finished with it yet." Said Solar

"Yeah, here's what I got. 'Dear Princess Celestia, I am happy that one of the youngest subjects has learned a valuable lesson about friendship. Sometimes, the thing you think will cause you to lose friends and feel left out can actually be the thing that helps you make your closest friends and realize how special you are'. So what do you think?" Said Twilight

"Perfect as usual." Said Solar

"Send it to Celestia for me." Said Twilight

"As you wish my lady." He said

He took the letter in his hands and using his magic, sent the letter. Twilight kissed him on the lips before making it passionate. Twilight broke the kiss before looking at him. Her eyes now showed her desire for Solar. He smiled as he used his magic to cloak the room in a soundproofing spell. He clicked out the light as he and Twilight continued to find love in their marriage.