(Author's note: I apologize that this story hasn't been update in eight months. This past year has gone by so quickly for me, and it has been so busy. To sum things up, I am now a first time Mommy. I'm hoping that as my son grows older, I'll be able to spend more time writing, but I've been told that will not be the case. Anywho, I hope you enjoy this next installment of my story. I realize that this chapter is still setting up a lot of the story, but I assure you this fanfic gets better the further it goes. I thank everyone who has kept watching me patiently despite my absence. And I especially thank everyone who reviews my story. It is great to hear what people think about my writings.)

Chaotic Harmony

Chapter 2: Monday Part 1

By Emilou AKA Hatashi Kitty

Even before the sun was peering over the horizon, Apple Jack was up. Usually she liked to do her chores before dawn so she could watch the beautiful sunrise, but today wasn't a day that she could take that break. She had to load up the Apple family food stand so she could be at the Wonderbolt preliminary try-outs early. It was the same food stand that she had taken to the Grand Galloping Gala, since it was easy to set up and display her products.

Once she had finished loading up the apple treats she would sell, she looked around the farm. Apple Blood made her promise last night to take her to the Wonderbolt try-outs to watch Rainbow Dash, but now that it was time to go, there was no sign of the filly.

"Apple Bloom, time to go," Apple Jack called out loudly.

"I think I saw her go into that barn a while ago," Aunt Orange called back to Apple Jack as she pointed to the oldest barn the Apples used, one that they rarely used except for storage. Aunt Orange and her husband were already helping Granny Smith out in the garden even though they were exhausted from the work of the previous day.

Apple Jack went to the barn. Right before she could open the large door, it moved on its own with Apple Bloom jumping out quickly.

"Is it time to go yet?" Apple Bloom asked with a beaming face.

"Yeah. Did you get your chores done?" Apple Jack asked. As she did, she peered into the darkness of the barn. "What cha doin' in there?"

"Of course I am done," Apple Bloom told her sister as she closed the barn door. "Let's go, or we'll miss something," she called as she galloped away.

Finding it a little suspicious that her little sister would be in that particular barn, Apple Jack was tempted to take a peek inside to see what Apple Bloom was hiding. She knew just how much a spirited little filly the yellow pony could be, and was worried that Apple Bloom might be hiding something important. But Apple Jack couldn't bring herself to betray her sibling's trust, and just hope that she wasn't getting into trouble.

As the two sister started off to the Wonderbolt try-outs, Uncle Orange called out, "Why don't you go, too, Macintosh?"

The large, red stallion, who was hauling water for the trees, looked a little skeptical at this.

"Yes, you need a break as well," Aunt Orange agreed with a nod. "You go and have fun. We can handle things until you get back."

That seemed to settle things. Big Mac only shrugged and joined his sisters. They each gave the farm worried glances, wondering if this was a good idea to leave behind the three older ponies to the work. But then again, it wasn't everyday that all three siblings had done anything together that didn't involve work. It reminded them of the days that they would all go off together and have picnics in the apple orchards in between chores.

Without another word, the three waved good-bye and headed down the road. It wasn't as if they had far to go, and most likely wouldn't be long.

In her room in the Cake's home, Pinky Pie was woken up by a knock on her door. She was used to this. Being a baker's assistant, she was required to get up very early except on her days off. And today was one of those days.

Completely awake once she heard the knocking, Pinky Pie went to open the door and found Mrs. Cake on the other side. Beyond the mare, she could hear the twins crying and sobbing.

"I'm sorry to wake you," Mrs. Cake apologized. She looked haggard and tired, as if she had been up all night. "We have a bit of an emergency, Pinky."

Looking worried, Pinky Pie asked, "What's going on? Are the twins alright?"

"I'm afraid not. The twins have contracted measles. They've been up all night crying. I'm surprised that you didn't hear them."

Pinky Pie shrugged. She had been used to the babies crying in the middle of the night, and had somehow developed an audio immunity to the high pitched noise.

"We've already had the doctor come by," Mrs. Cake continue to explain. "But the measles are very contagious, and we can't have them anywhere near the shop."

The pink earth pony was getting a bad feeling about where this was heading.

"We're taking them to my mother's house, but the doctor said we might also have the measles without knowing it. It's best that we are quarantined for at least two weeks," Mrs. Cake said with a heavy sigh. "We'll have to close the shop. We can't risk getting the customers sick."

Pinky Pie's eyes became huge as this sunk in. Close Sugar Cube Corner! This was serious!

But an idea came to her immediately, and she opened her mouth to vocalize it.

"I know you want to help," Mrs. Cake said before the younger mare could. It was as if she already knew what Pinky Pie was going to say. "But you couldn't run the shop all by yourself for two weeks. And you told us all about your friends that need help this week. We couldn't ask you to do all that for us."

Pink ears lowered as she realized that Mrs. Cake was right. She was only one pony, and she had promised to help her friends. It was an awful feeling when she couldn't help one of her friends.

"But there is something that we need you to do," Mrs. Cake added.

"Yes?!" Pinky Pie quickly spoke, eager to please.

Mrs. Cake chuckled at Pinky Pie's energy. "We do have one order that we need to fill this week. The Fire and Water Ball committee needs one thousand cupcakes made plus a centerpiece six-tiered cake. And they must be fresh, so you'll have to do it all on Friday."

"One thousand? Friday?!" Pinky Pie shouted loudly, surprised enough to jump off the ground. "But we've never had such a large order before."

"I know, but there's nothing more we can do," Mrs. Cake said with a lowered head. "I'm so sorry to ask this of you, Pinky, but we've already made a promise. You said Rarity's fashion show ends on Thursday. Maybe your friends could help."

After thinking for a while, Pinky Pie smiled brightly to the mare she considered family. The Cakes had, after all, took her in when she moved to Ponyville. They had trusted her with everything they held dear, their children and now their store. "I will get those cupcakes ready for the ball. That is a Pinky Promise," she told Mrs. Cake adamantly, putting a hoof over her heart.

Mrs. Cake hugged the pink earth pony gratefully. "We'll make this up to you Pinky, after the twins are better."

Pinky Pie stayed a good distance away from the twins as the Cakes finished packing up their necessities, and waved good-bye as they left. Mrs. Cake's mother didn't live too far away, in a town just thirty miles east of Ponyville that was so small they didn't have a train station. They would keep in touch through letters, but other than that, Pinky Pie was on her own for two whole weeks.

In the field just a mile away from Sweet Apple Acres, dozens of ponies had already accumulated for the preliminary event that would take place. A majority of the ponies were pegasi, but more than enough earth ponies and unicorn milled around either to support family or friends, or just to catch a glimpse of the famous Wonderbolts.

Each pegasi that had already signed up for the event had a number painted down one hind leg to show their place to be judged. A large line of pegasi without numbers had formed in front of the registration table on one side of the field. The middle of the field featured a number of obstacles such as rings, tunnels and poles that were held up high for fliers to navigate through them.

At one edge, the Apple siblings had set up their cart and were selling their products. While their apple cider was selling very well, their apple treats weren't as popular. This fact caused the younger sister to mutter about cheapskate ponies.

"Now, now, Apple Bloom. That's no way to attract customers," Apple Jack said patiently. "Business won't pick up until the action starts. Pretty soon, ponies will relax and get hungry."

The crowd grew and grew, and soon, the Apple siblings were joined by three friends.

"Good morning, Apple Jack. Apple Bloom," Fluttershy gently greeted the sisters. Her eyes then went to the brother, and she shyly ducked her head. "Good morning, Big Mac."

The sisters replied readily, and Big Mac gave her a definite nod.

Next to Fluttershy stood Twilight Sparkle with Spike on her back. They both gave a quick "Good morning" but didn't say any more since they were writing on pieces of paper. Twilight was magicking a pen just as quickly as Spike was writing.

Down by Twilight Sparkle's hooves, the strange cat that followed her yesterday was there again. He sat calmly by her side, his eyes small slights. His smile was just as strange as the fact that the large crowd didn't bother him.

"What are ya workin' on?" Apple Bloom asked, her bold curiosity making her look over Spike's shoulder.

"I'm just finishing up everyone's schedules," Twilight Sparkle explained as she concentrated on writing. "I'm making sure everyone has equal time helping Rarity on her fashion show, Fluttershy with her cocoons and me with the library, as well as having time to watch Rainbow Dash at each try-out. I'm assuming she's going to make it to the finals."

"Do I get one?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Of course, but you have to remember, we're counting on your and your friends to follow the schedules," Twilight said in a lecturing tone.

Apple Bloom gave the new princess a serious face, and nodded her head.

Everyone left Twilight Sparkle and Spike alone after that, and things were a bit quiet. Fluttershy bought an apple fritter from the stand, and was content to eating it slowly as she talked to the flame-point siamese cat.

"Aren't you such a sweet boy," Fluttershy gushed over him.

The cat left the alicorn's side to spend time with the animal lover, hopefully to earn some apple fritter.

From the sky, Rainbow Dash spotted her friends and landed nearby. In her wake, Scootaloo was sprinting along the ground to keep up. "Where's Pinky Pie and Rarity? They're going to start soon," Rainbow Dash said in a grumpy voice.

"I don't know. They should have been here. It's not like the others to be this late," Twilight Sparkle said as she looked up from what she was working on.

"And I need to talk to Rairty," Apple Jack said, but once she did, she seemed embarrassed to have mentioned it. "Not that it's anything really important."

"Look. Rainbow Dash has the number 12," Scootaloo pointed out to everypony the number on the older pegasus's hind leg. "That means she'll be in the third race. They're going to race five ponies at a time."

"Good, because my train to Canterlot leaves at 10:30, and I can't take a later one or my schedule will be completely ruined," Twilight Sparkle said as she glanced up from her writing.

"You're not staying until the end?" Rainbow Dash almost whined, a deep frown etched on her face.

"With the state of the new library is in right now? I wish I had more time, but I need to get supplies ordered and buy the new books, not to mention. . . ," she rattled on her list of things the new library needed, everypony suddenly tuning her out.

"Apple Bloom. Scootaloo," a tiny voice called from without.

Everypony turned and saw the unicorn sisters rushing through the crowd, Rarity with her glasses on while magicking fabric, needle and thread above her head. Sweetie Belle had a pair of saddle bags on her back, feathers poking out of one pocket.

"I'm terribly sorry that I'm late. I received inspiration for a fabulous ensemble, and I lost track of time. I hope I didn't miss anything," Rarity said absent-minded, her attention all on her sewing.

"You're still on time. They haven't started anything yet," Apple Jack said, looking relieved that the unicorn had arrived. "You look a mess. Have you had anything to eat?"

"Oh, I suppose I had something a while . . . ," Rarity trailed off, her eyes focused on her seam making sure it was straight.

The younger sister leaned toward Apple Jack, and whispered in the Earth pony's ear, "She hasn't eaten anything since lunch yesterday."

"Come with me, Rarity," Apple Jack said as she steered her friend toward the food stand. "You can put that down for a minute and have something to eat."

Rarity was slightly surprised when Apple Jack ripped her sewing away from her magic, draped it on Rarity's back, and then presented her with an apple. "Thank you, Apple Jack. I suppose I need to keep up my strength," the dainty unicorn said, and took a delicate bite out of the fruit.

As Rarity ate, Apple Jack made a quick check that nobody else was near them before opening her mouth again. "Hey, since we're talkin', I have a slight favor to ask ya."

"Yes?" Rarity asked half-listening.

Nervously, Apple Jack noticed that the others were close-by, and might over hear her. "Well. . . It's about a dress."

Seeing that Apple Jack was being secretive and it was about clothes, Rarity became interested in the details. "A dress? For whom? You. What's it for? Do you want me to make you one?" The white unicorn nudged her friend.

Apple Jack bit her lip uneasily. She looked away, her hat partially covering her eyes. "Not anythin' big. It's nothin'." She suddenly regretted bringing up the issue.

"Oh, spill it." Rarity took the chance to tease the tom-boy pony, playfully taking advantage of Apple Jack's discomfort. She continued to nudge at the Earth pony. "I won't tell the others."

Apple Jack pushed Rarity away, trying not to look bashful. "I'll tell ya later. I'll come by later and show you."

Rarity pouted, but left it at that.

While they were talking to each other, Twilight Sparkle and Spike finished their work on the schedules.

"Alright, here's yours and yours," Twilight Sparkle said, handing a paper to Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash.

"I can't have this. It'll cause a drag," Rainbow Dash complained waving the paper around.

"Not that that would slow you down, Rainbow," a voice from the crowd called out.

The voice sounded very familiar, and the blue pegasus looked around. Soon, a turquoise pony with blonde mane trotted out of the crowd, a smug look on her face and a number "23" on her leg.

"Lightning Dust? Hey, I haven't seen you since the academy," Rainbow Dash said, suddenly feeling nervous. I wonder if she's still mad about what I told Spitfire.

"Oh, you mean when you ratted me out?" Lightning Dust said with a frown.

Yep, still mad.

"I'm sorry that you got kicked out," Rainbow Dash said sincerely. "That was not my intent when I went to Spitfire. I had a concern about your attitude, and you weren't listening to me."

"Hmph, well, not that it matters now," Lightning grumbled. "What's done is done. I try not to dwell on the past, even if I'm now at a disadvantage."

"What do you mean?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Look around. Do you recognize a lot of these faces?" Lightning Dust asked, waving a hoof at the crowd.

Rainbow Dash was about to make a sarcastic comment. After all, a lot of the ponies there were from Ponyville, but that probably wasn't what Lightning meant. Instead, she looked at the competing pegasi, and realized that a majority of the faces were familiar, even though she was sure many of them weren't from Cloudsdale.

"They're from the Wonderbolt Academy," Rainbow Dash said in realization. "So what?"

"So, those that graduated from the Academy have a higher advantage than the others," Lightning Dust said, looking down at the blue pegasi. "Don't you think the Wonderbolts are more likely to pick someone who graduated from their academy?"

The other pegasus's words made sense, to Rainbow Dash.

"So, for me to be considered, I have to be much better than anypony else to be noticed," Lightning Dust said, looking determined. "Which means I have to stand out even more; show the Wonderbolts something big and daring."

"At the expense of others?" Rainbow Dash countered, now feeling like she was being attacked by Lightning Dust's words.

"Of course not. I'm not dumb enough to do the same thing that got me in trouble last time," Lightning Dust shot back. "Since the Academy, I've been practicing my precision flying so that I can do any stunt and nobody will get hurt. I realize that Spitfire kicked me out because a leader is responsible for their actions, and I wasn't."

For a while Rainbow Dash wondered if Lightning Dust was going to be vindictive about her past, but now she could see that the other pony had learned from her mistakes.

"Hey, Lightning Dust, good luck. I'm sure you'll do great," Rainbow Dash said with a small smile.

The turquoise pony, still looking slightly angry, nodded. "You too," she said and started walking away. But after a while, she stopped and looked back. "And I'm sorry."

As she watched Lightning Dust walk away, Rainbow Dash wondered if the reason the other pegasus sought her out was to apologize. Rainbow Dash knew what it was like to be full of pride, and then having to apologize. If it wasn't for her amazing friends, she might have gone down the same path Lightning Dust had gone on, driving herself forward at the expense of others without any disregard.

"So, are you two friends again?" Fluttershy wondered.

Rainbow Dash only shrugged. "One day, maybe."

It wasn't long after that, Spitfire, Fleetfoot, Soarin, and the other Wonderbolts appeared on a raised platform, a megaphone in Spitfire's hoof.

"Alright, everypony gather round. We're going to start the event after I say a few words," Spitfire called out in her commanding voice. She waited a moment for the crowd to quiet and group around the platform.

"Come here, kitty," Fluttershy whispered down to the cat that purred near her forelegs. She picked him up and put him on her back. "There, now your tail won't get stepped on."

The cat, gratefully, rubbed his face against Fluttershy's, and then nestled into a ball on her back for a nap in the warm sun.

"I wonder where Pinky Pie is," Twilight Sparkle thought out loud, causing all her friends to look around for their remaining group member. "I hope everything is alright."

"First off, it's wonderful to see such a turnout," Spitfire continued. "We have a lot of ponies with amazing talent here today, so we have the tough job of narrowing down the competition. Unfortunately, we only have two spots open on the reserved team."

"The reserved team?" Rarity asked in a whisper.

Rainbow Dash whispered back. "The Wonderbolts have a reserved team in case any of them are injured or can't make it to a routine. The reserved team have it hard. Not only do they need to memorize each position in every routine, but be able to copy any of the Wonderbolts on a moment's notice. Only when a Wonderbolt quits or retires does somepony from the reserved team get a permanent position. Some ponies in the reserved team never make it as a permanent Wonderbolt."

Rarity nodded that she understood, and they went back to listening to Spitfire.

"There have been rumors circulating about the reputation of some of the Wonderbolts," Spitfire said, her face showing accusation toward the crowd. "I'd like to put to rest these rumors. There have been no indiscretions by any member of the group. Instead, we have two members retiring this year."

Two of the Wonderbolts, a mare and stallion, stepped forward, the face masks of their uniforms removed.

"As you may recall, Twister and Jetstream here were married last year," Spitfire said with a bright smile, "and they've just announced that they have a little one on the way. They've both decided that this Saturday will be their last performance."

The crowd of ponies gave out a loud cheer as the couple waved and smiled.

"And as tradition, we've given the permanent positions within the Wonderbolts to two of the reserved team," Spitfire announced, and gestured for two stallions to step forward. "Let me introduce the two newest Wonderbolts: Ricochet and Bolt."

The two stallions posed as news-ponies took pictures of them and wrote in their notepads.

"Before we start the preliminaries, let me state a few rules. We're testing you to see if you have what it takes to be a Wonderbolt. This obstacle course is designed to test agility, speed, and style. The reason we will be having five ponies competing all at once will also see if you are a team player. You will treat your rivals as if they are your team mates. Any pushing, shoving, or any kind of dirty flying will not be tolerated. Also, the use of magical potions are strictly prohibited."

"Magical potions? What for?" Scootaloo asked much too loud, and a few ponies turned around to look at her.

Twilight Sparkle lowered her head so she could talk to the filly privately. "There are some potions that can make a pegasus stronger or fly faster. Do you think that's fair?"

At first, Scootaloo thought that it would be awesome to get faster and stronger with no effort. Rainbow Dash would be amazing, and definitely get to be a Wonderbolt. And then she thought that with those potions, she wouldn't have to practice so much to fly. She'd be able to do it right away. But then she thought about how she'd feel if someone else took the potion and Rainbow Dash didn't. It wouldn't be fair after all the work Rainbow Dash had done, and still didn't get to be a Wonderbolt just because some other pony took a shortcut. Finally she remembered how Apple Bloom tried to take a short cut to get her cutie mark. That didn't end well, and maybe taking those magic potions would have consequences she didn't know about.

Scootaloo decided magic potions weren't fair and promised herself she'd exercise her wings every day and get strong just as Rainbow Dash had done: through hard work.

"Okay, now that we've got the boring stuff out of the way, let's get the try-outs started," Spitfire said once she listed all the rules. "I want ponies with the numbers 1 through 5 at the starting line in one minute. Every pony else make sure you listen for your number. If you aren't present when you're called, you won't be given another chance to compete."

The crowd dispersed so that they could watch the competition on the ground. Five pegasi flew up and toward the starting line.

"Apple Jack, can we go watch the races?" Apple Bloom asked her sister.

Sweetie Belle looked at her own sister as well. "Yes, can we?"

Along with Scootaloo, the three fillies looked expectantly at the older mares.

"I don't see why not," Apple Jack nodded. "I think Big Mac and I can handle the food stand."

Rarity, on the other hoof, looked more concerned. "Well, alright. But be very careful, Sweetie. And stay where I can see you."

As the three fillies ran off to find a good spot to watch, the five mares noticed one pegasus, a stallion, flying over the group and receiving a loud cheer, mostly from mares. He was a burnish color with wild red and yellow mane and tail. He flew smoothly with a cocky aura around him. He blew a kiss toward some of the girls, and a few swooned.

"Who the heck is that?" Rainbow Dash asked, looking skeptical as she watched the stallion winked.

The mares started chanting his name as they crowded near the starting line.

"Apparently his name is Flare," Apple Jack said as she stated the obvious.

"Oh, I've heard about him. He's from Las Pegasus, and travels all around Equestria. He's quite famous," Rarity said, as she eyed Flare. "He's a lot more handsome than his pictures."

"What's he famous for?" Twilight Sparkle asked.

"Well. . . I don't know. A little of this and that, I guess," Rarity said, sounding very uncertain. "All the ponies in Canterlot know him. I've heard he's done some modeling, but also participates in a lot of races, both in the air and on the ground. He basically does whatever he wants, and the press love him."

"We love you, Flare," the fan-mares called out to the stallion as he landed with a flourish.

Rainbow Dash made a dismissing sound from between her lips. "A pony like that isn't going to be much of a competitor. I'll bet he comes last in this seed, and doesn't make it to the semi-finals."

While Rainbow Dash looked confident, the others looked skeptical.

"The first race is about to begin, but I haven't seen Pinky yet," Spike said, looking around the crowd from atop Twilight Sparkle's back.

"Oh, she's gotta be here to see me race," Rainbow Dash said determinately. "She's always been here."

"I wonder what is keeping her," Twilight Sparkle spoke all their thoughts.

However, thoughts of their friend went to the back of their minds as the first race started. With the crack of the starting gun, the five pegasi were off the ground and picking up speed. They zoomed through the obstacles almost as one in the first lap. During the second lap, a few started to lag behind. But the entire three laps around the obstacle course, Flare was in the lead. Once he was across the finishing line, he skidded to a halt, his mane wind-swept which gave his handsome features a more wild-look. Immediately, he was surrounded by mares as they praised him and asked for autographs.

The others didn't seem impressed, but Rarity had found herself flushed as she watched Flare race. Usually she went for the more gentle stallion, but she couldn't help falling for his bad-colt reputation. The white unicorn fanned herself as she tittered. "Oh my," she said as Flare flashed a dazzling smile at the crowd.

"Hey, is that Flare?" a loud, high voice asked nearly in Rarity's ear.

"AH! Pinky, don't sneak up on me," Rarity said as she put a hoof to her chest to calm her rapid heart beat. "Where have you been, darling? We've all be worried."

"You shouldn't have. Nothing in the world would keep me away from cheering for Rainbow Dash," Pinky said with a big smile. And she was ready to cheer since she had two poles strapped to her flanks, each bearing a large flag that said, "Go Rainbow Dash!" She put a foreleg around Rainbow's neck in a tight hug.

"Thanks, Pinky. I didn't want to race without you. I think I'll go warm-up now," Rainbow Dash said with a big smile, and trotted off to near the finish line.

As the second race started, the friends chatted amongst each other, except for Apple Jack. She was busy as more ponies came over to buy food. Even with Big Mac helping out, she had little time to converse with her friends.

"Wait, how do you know about Flare?" Rarity asked suddenly, realizing that the Earth pony knew about the stallion.

"Oh, he's practically one of Equestria's top party crashers," Pinky Pie said with bright admiring eyes. "I read all about him in Party Pony Weekly, the magazine that I subscribe to."

"Party crasher?" Twilight Sparkle asked, not liking the sound of that.

"Yep, if there's a big party going on anywhere in Equestria, you can bet that Flare won't be far behind," Pinky Pie continued on. "Not only that, but he has this way to make parties even better. They call him a party genius."

Rarity took a look at Pinky Pie, and an idea popped into her head. Does she like Flare? It does sound like a celebrity crush, she wondered to herself. And for the first (and Rarity was sure the last time), she and Pinky had the same taste in stallions. Rarely did they have the same taste in anything.

Rarity's eyes sparkled as she looked at Pinky Pie. "I feel so close to you," Rarity said happily, thinking about what fun it would be to share a crush with a friend. And if he ever chooses you over me, I will accept his choice and wish you all the happiness in the world, Rarity thought to Pinky.

"Me too," Pinky said, completely oblivious to Rarity's thoughts.

"Hey, it's almost time for Rainbow Dash's race," Spike told them.

The ponies had been so involved in talking about Flare they didn't notice that the second race had ended, and the next five ponies had lined up.

The starting pistil rang out, and Rainbow Dash was off along with the four other competitors. A cheer rose out of the crowd just as loud a one for Flare, all of Ponyville supporting their own minor celebrity. The blur of Rainbow Dash's tail followed her through every curve and loop, not only showing her accuracy in her turns, but adding style and eye appeal to her form. After the third lap, she crossed the finish line with nearly four horse lengths ahead of the next pegasus.

The crowd roared as Rainbow Dash landed gracefully, waving to her friends for their support.

The five friends rushed to the blue pegasus, heaping compliments on her.

"Not bad, for a pony from a small town like Ponyville," a cocky male voice interrupted the acclaim. As the girls moved off of the field, Flare followed them, trotting as if he were on a brisk stroll.

"What do you want?" Rainbow Dash couldn't help but half-yell at the stallion.

"I just wanted to come check out my competition," Flare admitted right out. "As far as I can see, there are few who I need to worry about." After he said this, he flipped his mane about and smiled at a few mares, who giggled.

"So, my skills impressed you," Rainbow Dash snickered, her nose up in the air.

"Hardly. Of course you looked good in your race. You were up against sub-par opponents," Flare said snobbishly. "I had to race against real athletes. After all, the first five who registered are the most serious." At this, he prominently showed off his leg that showed the number "1" painted on it.

His insinuation didn't go unnoticed by Rainbow Dash. She frowned for a while, but then said with false disinterest. "I don't recognize you from the Wonderbolt Academy. That's too bad for you that you didn't get the training that you'd need to win. You may be fast, but you don't have what it takes."

Flare shrugged. "I don't need the academy. I was trained by Fleetfoot. She's my personal trainer," he said with a toothy grin. "She even gave me some pointers that are secret to the Wonderbolts."

Rainbow Dash was sure he was just showing off, but it still irked her because it might be true. "Well. . . I saved the Wonderbolts while doing a Sonic Rainboom. So there," Rainbow Dash boasted, not caring how immature she sounded.

"That was you. Well, then I guess I might have to worry a little bit," Flare said modestly. Then he noticed the rest of the ponies around the pegasus. "Where are my manners? Please introduce me to your enchanting companions, Rainbow Dash."

Rarity and Twilight Sparkle giggled at his charming comment, which made both Rainbow Dash and Spike snort at his "charm".

"I'm Rarity," the unicorn didn't wait to be introduce and offered a hoof. "I don't suppose you'll be modeling at this year's fashion show extravaganza, hmmm?"

"Unfortunately, no. I felt that my time was best spent training for the try-out," Flare said, and kissed Rarity's hoof. "Which is a shame, since I would be honored to share the cat-walk with one such as you."

Rarity giggled and blushed. "Oh, I'm not a model. I'm just a humble little fashion designer who is hosting the show. But I do hope to see you there, at least."

"I do love a party," Flare said confidently.

"So do I!" Pinky Pie shouted, popping up in between the two ponies. "And I'll be helping Rarity with the party. That's my special talent." To emphasize this, Pinky stretched her back leg out to show off her cutie mark.

"Perhaps I can help you out. After all, my special talent is being able to add Flare to everything I do," he said as he mimicked Pinky Pie's action. His cutie mark stood out, showing two fireworks going off in brilliant colors.

Pinky Pie squealed excitedly. "Awesome!" she shouted at him, nearly bowling him over with her excitement.

Flare was a bit taken aback by Pinky Pie's enthusiasm, but quickly composed himself. Then he moved on to the next friend. "This mare needs no introduction. If I'm not mistaken, you're the new Princess Twilight Sparkle. Am I right?"

"Yes, you are. But I prefer just Twilight Sparkle," the alicorn said bashfully. "And this is Spike and Apple Jack."

"Howdy," Apple Jack said friendly, shaking his hoof rapidly.

Flare nodded to Apple Jack as he gave Spike a pat on his head (the baby dragon glared at the stallion and muttered something akin to "Stay away from Rarity."). "I've had your family's apple cider. It's choice."

"Thank ya kindly," Apple Jack said with a puffed out chest.

All this time, Rainbow Dash stood in the middle of her friends with a murderous look on her face. Not only had Flare insulted her indirectly, but now he was buttering up all her friends. She had never met anypony so irritating.

"Rainbow Dash, your friends are delightful," Flare said in a gentle-coltly way. "I just might have to stick by you this whole week. Maybe I can persuade you beautiful mares to give away all of her secrets."

This caused the four mares to giggle.

"I just might give you all my secrets," Rarity said in a flirty tone.

Spike pretended to throw up.

"Wait a minute. He hasn't met Fluttershy," Twilight Sparkle suddenly realized, caught up in Flare's compliments. "Where is she?"

"Are you trying to keep your friends to yourself, Rainbow Dash?" Flare asked playfully. His words only put the blue pegasus in a darker mood.

"Here she is," Apple Jack said, noticing that the timid, yellow pony had kept to the back of the group. "This is our friend, Fluttershy."

The pegasus hid behind her pink mane as she was pushed up to the front. "Uh. . . hello," she said softly, lowering her head.

The confidence and bravado that Flare displayed melted from his face as he looked at Fluttershy. His eyes widened and he gazed at her in a mesmerized way. "Such. . . grace. . . The dainty hooves of the sky portrayed in thy elegant steps, the wings of the summer breeze echoes in thy flight. My Lady." Flare tenderly picked up Fluttershy's hoof, and kissed it softly. "Forgive me, Fluttershy. But your beauty startled me."

The stallion's use of ad lib poetry and his bold actions shocked the mares into backing away, including Fluttershy who started stuttering out unintelligent syllables as she blushed in embarrassment from all the attention.

Without any kind of explanation, Fluttershy pulled her hoof away and ran off, a look of embarrassed surprise plastered on her face so loud that the crowd parted easily for her.

In her wake, there was a screeching sound, and the forgotten flame-point siamese cat found himself on the ground, quickly licking his fur as if he hadn't fallen off Fluttershy's back.

Rarity nearly sat back on her haunches, she was so shocked. She had been certain that Flare had paid her sincere compliments, that Flare liked her so much more than the rest of his sycophants, but her heart felt much more fragile after his profuse words to Fluttershy. She started crying loudly on the inside.

"Wow, lucky Fluttershy," Pinky Pie said as she watched the pegasus run off, not showing any sign of heartbreak, which gave Rarity the strength to continue on with her life.

"What was up with that?" Rainbow Dash asked in defense of her friend once the shock wore off. "I know you're used to having all the girls hang on you and fawn after you. You can dish out all the pretty words to them. But you stay away from Fluttershy. She's not someone you can play around with."

"Yeah," Apple Jack jumped in. "Nopony is actually gullible enough to fall for your schmoozin', but Fluttershy will think you're sincere. She probably thinks that you want to date her or somethin'."

Rarity felt herself wilt from Apple Jack's words. Nopony is gullible enough?

"But I do," Flare said with a straight face.

"What?!" the mares all shouted at once.

"It's true that I do add some Flare to my words, and I can't help but compliment every mare that I see. To me, all mares are beautiful, and it is my gift to the world to tell them so," Flare said gallantly. "But she is different than anypony I've ever met. She is my definition of beauty. Fluttershy. Even her name is graceful."

"You're serious?" Rainbow Dash asked with a wrinkled nose.

"With every flap of my infallible wings," Flare answered proudly. "You see, there has been only one thing I've looked for in a mare. I've always wished to marry someone just like my mother."

"You're mother?" Twilight Sparkle repeated skeptically. "Isn't that weird to want to marry someone who looks like your mom?"

"No, not looks like," Flare denied. "Fluttershy doesn't look like my mother, but. . .there is something about her. The humble way she holds her head, the dainty way she walks, the gentleness in her eyes. My mother was just like that."

Awkward pause.

"I'm going to marry that mare!" Flare suddenly said loudly, his face full of determination. Nopony stopped him as he ran off into the crowd to search for Fluttershy.

"Uh. . . does anypony think maybe we should stop him or something. . . ?" Twilight Sparkle asked, and looked at her friends.

Rarity had her back turned to the others and was scuffing her hoof against the ground. "I can be dainty and gentle, too," she told herself sadly.

Rainbow Dash was grinning evilly. "I can totally use Fluttershy to get all his secrets. Heh, heh, heh."

Pinky Pie's eyes were sparkling as her imagination was running wild. "I can totally plan their wedding party. A huge wedding for a party pony. This is going to be epic."

With half closed eyes, Twilight Sparkle watched her friends in disbelief.

"It looks like they're off in their own little worlds," Apple Jack said, the only one not in "la-la land." "I'd like to help, but I left Big Mac all by himself at the stand. I really should be gettin' back." And she took off before things could get even weirder.

Twilight Sparkle sighed. "Well, I guess you and I are the only logical ones here, Spike."

The baby dragon didn't hear her since he was talking to himself. "And then I'll help her mend her broken heart, and it will be all 'Spikey-Wikey is so sweet'. Heh heh."

"It looks like I'm on my own," Twilight Sparkle muttered.

"And then we'll make the cupcakes look like delicious. . . Oh my hooves, CUPCAKES!" Pinky Pie shouted, jumping a foot from the ground.

"Yes, we know you love cupcakes, Pinky," Twilight Sparkle said as she rolled her eyes.

"No, I completely forgot about this morning," Pinky Pie said as she ran in place. "The Cakes need to bake twins for the measles because cupcakes are party."

"You aren't making any sense. Calm down," Twilight Sparkle told her friend, shaking her a bit. "Now slow down and tell me what's wrong."

Pinky Pie took a deep breath, and told her friends about the twins being sick and how the Cakes had to leave, giving Pinky Pie the sole responsibility of baking one thousand cupcakes, plus a six-tiered cake for the dance on Saturday.

"And they have to be fresh, so I need to have them all done by Friday. What am I going to do? How can I make one thousand?" Pinky Pie told them, almost in tears.

"Well, since my fashion show will be over by then, I guess if all of us help out, we could manage," Rarity said hopefully. "I'm not that good at baking, but you could teach us."

"Or, I have a better idea," Twilight Sparkle said confidently, magicking all her papers that she brought. "I know a spell that will help us."

"A cupcake duplication spell?" Pinky Pie asked hopefully.

"No, but this is just as good. I know a time-lock spell that will freeze the cupcakes in time. That way, you can make the cupcakes any time this week, and they'll stay fresh."

Pinky Pie gasped loudly. "That's amazing. Then I can start cooking now and get them done by Friday."

"With our help," Twilight Sparkle added, quickly using her magic to write on the papers. "Let me make a few adjustments here and there. Okay, here's everyone's schedules."

"Um. . . Twilight. . . ," Spike said, poking Twilight Sparkle on the shoulder.

"Not now, Spike. Okay, so if the younger girls help Fluttershy with her cocoons this afternoon, that will leave Apple Jack to help Rarity and Rainbow Dash can help Pinky Pie," Twilight Sparkle said as she handed out the papers.

"Twilight. . . ,"

The alicorn ignored her assistant.

"Awww, but I want to watch the rest of the races," Rainbow Dash whined, her eye on the next set of pegasi flying through the obstacle course. "At least let me stay and watch Lightning Dust. She's going to be my biggest competition."

"Fine, but make sure Fluttershy and the fillies get their schedules, please," Twilight Sparkle said with a sigh.

"TWILIGHT!" Spike shouted in the purple pony's ear.

"What is it, Spike?" Twilight Sparkle growled back.

"It's almost 10:30," Spike told her anxiously.

"Oh my hooves, I'm late," Twilight Sparkle yelled, her eyes wide. "Gotta go. My train!" To avoid the large crowd, Twilight Sparkle leaped into the air and flew off awkwardly, still not used to take-offs. She hadn't gone far when a pegasus flew in front of her, causing her to stop suddenly and flap desperately to stay aloft.

"Princess Twilight Sparkle. It's an honor to finally meet you. I'm so happy that you came to see the try-outs," the pegasus said confidently, taking the purple pony's hoof and shaking it.

"Oh, Spitfire. It's nice to meet you, too. I'm sorry, but I'm la-"

"If I could have a minute of your time, there's something I'd like to talk to you about," Spitfire interrupted, not noticing Twilight Sparkle's look of worry. "It's just that, I've been trying to contact Princess Celestia, Luna and Cadence, and they seem to be ignoring my letters."

"Well, we all are very busy, especially with the-" Twilight Sparkle began, hinting that she was busy as well.

"I realize that, but I was hoping that for the finals in the try-outs, we could have all four of the princesses present and perhaps giving a speech to inspire all our fans and contestants," Spitfire continued on despite Twilight Sparkle's expression. "It would be a huge favor to the Wonderbolts."

"Maybe they'll let Rainbow Dash join them," Spike blurted out what was on his mind.

Twilight Sparkle glared at the dragon before replying to Spitfire. "I'll talk to Celestia, but I can't guarantee anything. Celestia and Luna are very busy, and Cadence might not even be coming out for the ball. But let me see what I can do."

"Thanks. Just let me know if there's anything I can do for you, princess," Spitfire said as she slapped Twilight Sparkle on the back. She didn't even notice the slap almost caused the princess to fall out of the sky.

With the Wonderbolt finally gone, Twilight Sparkle continued to rush to the train station.

"What do you mean Cadence isn't coming out? Haven't they written back?" Spike asked.

The alicorn shook her head. "I forgot to write to them. I'll do it on the train," she said, and then she got a happy look on her face. "But I wouldn't be surprised if Cadence isn't up to traveling. Shining Armor said that she's been feeling sick lately."

Spike scratched his head, wondering why his friend thought that Cadence being sick was a good thing.

Most ponies in Canterlot were already up and about by the time Princess Luna would wake up. Staying up late to make sure the moon rises and sets prevented her from becoming a morning pony. She didn't mind it very much; the only drawback being that everypony else had had breakfast, and thus leaving her to eat on her own.

But she was used to being alone. Even surrounded by guards and watching over Equestria, she still felt alone.

During the day, she didn't have much to do and often spent her time learning about this modern time. Things had certainly changed a lot since before she was Nightmare Moon, as she found out in her visit to Ponyville. But sometimes she just wandered the castle, reminiscing her past before things became complicated.

As she was passing the library, she did a double take, getting a second look at what was happening within.

Celestia was neck deep in books again. She had stacks and stacks of them surrounding her, half a dozen opened up on a table and a dozen more hovering over her head. The white alicorn would read a little in one book and moved to another, pouring through the information like a fanatic.

Luna once again felt concern for her sister's health and questioned one of the guards that stood outside of the library.

"How long has she been in there?"

"About five hours," the guard answered.

Luna sighed. "And when did she eat last? Has she slept?"

"She hasn't eaten since last night, but did sleep for five hours," the guard answered again, and then gave Luna an almost pleading look.

With a nod, Luna started walking into the library when suddenly she found herself standing on the ceiling.

"What is this?" she cried out, startled, but then her countenance changed to that of irritation. "Discord!"

"You called?" the draconequus inquired sluggishly as he appeared laying down on the ceiling.

Luna glared down (or was it up) at the misshapen creature. "I demand that you release me at once."

Discord raised a gray eyebrow at the princess. "Do you think that wise?"

"I am loosing my patience with you, trickster," Luna growled in a very unprincess-like manner.

"Oh, very well," Discord relented, and snapped his fingers.

Instead of being transported back to the floor like she thought would happen, Luna instead found that gravity had returned to normal. Feeling her body start to fall, the princess flapped her wings frantically, righting herself before hitting the ground. With feathers ruffled and mane out of place, she landed none too gracefully. Once her anxiety went away, she looked up to the ceiling to watch the ex-villain slowly glide down much like a feather.

"Very nice, Princess, although I think your landing needs work," Discord said, and held up a sign that said "7.5" on it.

Luna looked as if she were going to yell at Discord, but then she composed herself. He wants me to get mad at him. He wants me to loose my composure, she told herself. Without saying another word at the draconequus, she walked away from the library and her sister, completely forgetting about Celestia.

After he watched Luna leave, Discord turned his sights on Celestia. He was glad that she figured out his hint, but didn't heed his suggestion that working too hard was bad for her. Not that Discord was concerned; after all, if Celestia wanted bags under her eyes that was her problem. He had distracted Luna from disturbing her sister, so why did it bother him that Celestia was still working.

"Can I help you?"

Discord was interrupted from his personal thoughts by one of Celestia's guards, a young stallion that had just started. What was his name? Starling or something? Not that it made a difference. Discord made it an issue to get everyone's name wrong.

"Oh, nothing. I was just wondering if anyone else smelled lemons?" Discord asked expectantly.

The soldiers, confused, both shook their heads.

Discord shrugged. "Oh well, my mistake," the draconequus said as he walked off.

The two guards watched the trickster with suspicion until they heard a scream coming from the library. They quickly raced through the doors only to run into a wall of lemons. The citrus fruit caused them to bounce back, juices squirting from their collision. Shock prevented them from moving until lemons started rolling out making way for a bedraggled Princess Celestia. Seeing their monarch in need, the soldiers helped her out of the large pile of fruit.

"DISCORD!" Celestia shouted once she was free of the lemons.

But the trickster was already out of sight, giggling to himself.

Once Twilight Sparkle had left, both Pinky Pie and Rarity went away to get back to work. That left Rainbow Dash alone to find the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Fluttershy to give them their individual schedules. The fillies were easy to spot, so the pegasus went to them first. They were still watching the races, cheering on random ponies even if they didn't know them.

The strange little cat that had followed Twilight Sparkle had now attached himself to Rainbow Dash, much to the pegasus's irritation.

"Hey, squirts. I've got your schedule right here," Rainbow Dash told them once the current race was over. "It looks like today you're helping Fluttershy with her cocoons."

"Oh, Sweetie Belle told us about them," Scootaloo said happily. "They sound amazing. I hope we can watch them hatch."

"Wouldn't it be awesome to get a glow-in-the-dark butterfly cutie mark," Apple Bloom pitched in. Her friends agreed.

"Alright, let's get moving. We've got to find Fluttershy first," Rainbow Dash quickly jumped in before the younger ponies could say anything else.

At that, they all whined.

"But we wanted to watch more races," Scootaloo said sadly.

"I know how you feel," Rainbow Dash told them. "But do you remember what Twilight Sparkle said. You agreed to help out, and you need to stick to your word."

The three ponies acquiesced, although Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle didn't look as dis-heartened as the young pegasus.

After a little searching, they finally found the shy pegasus a distance away from the crowd. Fluttershy was sitting on the ground, her hair covering her face as she looked at the ground. At the sight of the yellow pony, the flame-point siamese cat ran to her and started rubbing against her happily.

"What's wrong, Fluttershy?" Sweetie Belle asked with concern. The three fillies had not been there to see the interaction with Flare and the mares.

"Nothing," Fluttershy said softly her hoof softly pawing the grass. "I-is that pegasus gone?"

"Who? Flare? I think so. It's too bad, really. He's such a good pony," Rainbow Dash said in her best lying voice. "It's too bad you left so quickly. I think you would have liked him."

"Uh. . .okay," Fluttershy said, feeling a little doubtful, but didn't want to be rude.

"You guys talked to Flare?" Scootaloo asked with disbelief. "He is so awesome. He was so fast."

Rainbow Dash frowned at Scootaloo's words but shook off the expression to further her plans. "Yeah, we talked to him. In fact, Fluttershy made a big impression on him. He said he wanted to get to know you better."

"He was probably just being nice," Fluttershy whispered, her body hunching over even more.

"No, he really liked you. In fact, I think that you should go on a date with him," Rainbow Dash pressed, her ulterior motives starting to show in her tone.

The fillies gasped at that, and smiled.

"You should totally do it, Fluttershy," Sweetie Belle coaxed.

"I don't know about that," Fluttershy protested softly. "I've never been on a date before."

Apple Bloom jumped in. "That's no reason to not do something. Granny Smith always says that new experiences are good for you."

Fluttershy, as always, felt herself giving in to peer pressure. "Well, I guess if he asks me, I shouldn't be rude." She hoped that she had given herself room to escape. After all, if she never saw him again, he couldn't ask her.

"I'm glad we got that settled. Let's go find Flare," Rainbow Dash said, and started pushing her friend from behind.

Fluttershy gave a little "Eep" as she was forced back into the crowd. But she didn't struggle as the group cut through the gathering of ponies, she was too mortified as they attracted more attention since they were a strange group of ponies followed by the confident cat.

It wasn't hard to find Flare since the crowd of mares surrounding him had doubled. Murderous glares shot their way when Rainbow Dash pushed Fluttershy through the crowd.

"Hey, Flare. Fluttershy wants to talk to you," Rainbow Dash called out.

The ostentatious pony's face brightened up at the name of the yellow pegasus. "Oh, I'm so glad I was able to see you again, Fluttershy," Flare said in a flirty way, and picked up her yellow hoof. "I wanted to apologize if my words were too bold. I realize now that my presence can be a little too intense for someone as delicate as you."

Fluttershy tried to hid her blushing cheeks, and her pose caused her to look even more adorable to Flare.

"It would be my greatest honor if you would see me again tomorrow, and have lunch with me. I would be remiss if I didn't see you again," Flare said, flashing his shiny smile.

Half of his mare fans fainted at his charming smile, the other half glared at Fluttershy for attaining the gallant pegasus's affection.

Fluttershy seemed to be so shocked by the many eyes on her that Rainbow Dash jumped in before she could say anything.

"Fluttershy accepts," the blue pegasus said with a determined smile. "You'll pick her up at noon, sharp. And you better bring her flowers."

"I'd bring her an entire garden if I could, but it could not compare to her," Flare said smoothly. "Then I will see you tomorrow, my lady. My heart will ache until we are reunited. Adieu."

And with that, the stallion walked away as his fans demanded autographs and pictures with him.

Once he was gone, Rainbow Dash pumped her hoof in congratulations. "Yes."

The three fillies cheered Fluttershy for being so lucky to date such a cool pony.

Fluttershy suddenly felt very panicky. "But Rainbow Dash, I don't think I'll be a good date," Fluttershy told her friend fretfully. For comfort, she picked up the cat and started petting him.

Rainbow Dash only shrugged her friend's protests off. "Don't worry about it. He really wants to date you, and do you have a really good reason to say no?"

Fluttershy slowly shook his head.

"Do you dislike Flare?" Rainbow Dash asked, knowing how Fluttershy would respond.

"Oh, no. He seemed like a very nice pony. And he was very kind. But I-" Fluttershy tried to explain when she was interrupted.

"But nothing. You can date him at least once. Get to know him a little," Rainbow Dash said, and then her face showed a dark smile. "And you can get all his little secrets from him.

"What?" Fluttershy squeaked.

"Yes, all his flying secrets will be mine. Find all his weakness and I'll exploit them," Rainbow Dash laughed to herself as she rubbed her hooves together.

Fluttershy leaned away from her friend with an uncertain look on her face.

With her ingredients gathered and her potion cooking all night, Zecora prepared the incantation to summon the creature of chaos that had used magic near her home. She didn't expect to use much more of her time with this problem; once the creature was summoned, she'd just send it on its way somewhere else where it couldn't do any damage to anypony.

After one more stir with her wooden spoon, Zecora stepped away from the large caldron. The potion was a neon blue and bubbled oozily. Pink steam rose from the concoction and it smelled of lavender and wet dog.

With everything in place, Zecora pulled out one of the few books she owned. From the book, she read the incantation for the summoning. It was an old spell, and thus in her native tongue. And just like her usual speech, the incantation was in rhyme.

As she read the spell, the liquid in the caldron bubbled quicker and turned into a green and black potion. Light emitted from the potion, casting eerie shadows all over Zecora's hut.

"Now, let's see what has come unbidden to Ponyville," Zecora told herself as she felt the spell starting to work. "Show me what has the power that I feel."

Above the caldron, a shape of an animal appeared in the light, and more and more details came into focus.

From his place in Fluttershy's embrace, Chaos felt the pull of a summoning spell. If he had been at his full power, he could have chosen to ignore it. He remembered in his hay-day, he'd often allowed himself to be summoned for his own amusement. After all, ponies have tried to use him without really knowing how powerful he really was.

But Chaos had to fight the spell long enough to wiggle out of Fluttershy's embrace and disappear into the crowd. After all, the sight of his fading body might caused a stir, and then his identity would be revealed too soon. That would be no fun at all. Once he was sure he wasn't being observed, he allowed the spell to take him.

In a flash, he found himself hovering above a boiling caldron, inside a tiny hut. He turned his blue eyes onto the zebra that stood before the caldron.

"You called?" Chaos asked with a toothy grin, looking unconcerned.

Zecora's eyes widened as she perceived just exactly what she got herself in.

"Speechless already?" Chaos inquired as he swooped out of the summoning spell and stepped on air at shoulder height. "You can't possibly be scared of me."

A strange laugh came out of Zecora's mouth. "A creature of chaos has been summoned here; a trickster, by the looks of your jeer."

Chaos walked around Zecora's head, wrapping his tail around her head like an affectionate pet. "Ah, a zebra who is knowledgeable in magic. You must know the old tongue of your country. You should be able to tell me stories of my brethren since their banishment from Equestria in my time. But not now."

"I will not need to tell you of your kind. To them you will go to find," Zecora said, hoping that her feigned ignorance would make the cat think that she didn't know who he was. "Time to leave, you big nuisance. Go straight away from my presents ."

Chaos jumped from his invisible perch to the floor. From there, he managed to look down at Zecora condescendingly. "Do you think your little play acting will fool me? I've learned trickery from the best." He showed his sharp teeth threateningly. "Are you afraid of me?"

From the moment that the cat filled with chaotic magic arrived, Zecora could sense his power. She could tell that he wasn't at his full strength, but she felt that his magic once could fill the sea. It was her goal to pretend that she was an incompetent spell-castor, and get away as fast as she could. Then she could go to Ponyville and warn Princess Twilight Sparkle. But could she pull it off?

"Afraid of you? Don't make me laugh. Now leave this land before I use my craft," Zecora threatened herself, stamping a hoof to emphasize her words.

Chaos, even more intrigued by the zebra, sniffed around her workshop. "Any cat has a nose ten times better than yours, and even a simple kitten would know that you're trying to deceive me. But why?" Chaos rubbed his face against some of Zecora's potion ingredients. "You want to go for help, don't you?"

Sweat started forming on Zecora's body, and she realized that her efforts were for naught. In panic, she bolted for the door, hoping that she could be faster than Chaos in his weakened state.

"Oh, no you don't," Chaos said lazily, and scratched at the earth. A scattering of chaos magic zipped along the ground in random directions. One large strand made it's way to Zecora's door, beating the zebra. There was a loud crack before Zecora could make it to her door.

Putting all her strength into her legs, Zecora slammed into the door, but it didn't move. A quick peak out the door window, and she saw that a tree had fallen, barely missing her home but blocking her only exit. In fear, Zecora turned to the supernatural feline in her home.

"I can't have you talking to the princesses quite yet," Chaos purred sinisterly. "I still have plans for them. I won't let you ruin my fun."