Hello Fanfiction readers and happy...early winter...wow that came out weird. Anyway, back to the topic at hand, Ashbel Longhart here to bring you another view of my crazy adventures in Equestria. Glad people are still reading the story. It's amazing how time flies by because today's chapter, we're wrapping up winter...quite literally. Seriously, what is with this world's blazing fast time!?
*A portal to Equestria appears* Oh! Looks like my rides here. Before I go, cue the disclaimer!
(Disclaimer: I do not own My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. All rights go to Hasbro Studios. I also don't own any songs that may seen familiar to you people. They belong to their respective owners as well. I just own this story and nothing more.)
I'll see you guys on the other side. *Jumps into the portal*
Friendship 11: Wrapping Up Winter...Literally
(Twilight's House)
It was night outside, the ponies of the town still sleeping and I was no exception as I was sleeping soundly within my comfy bed. I felt at peace, all my worries were gone and nothing, and I mean nothing, could ruin this moment.
"Ash! Ash get up!" Except that. "It's Winter Wrap Up day!" Winter what now?
Getting up, yawning, I was met with the face of Twilight Sparkle. What could be so important that she had to wake me up in the middle of the night? Or was it the middle of the night? I can't see my clock in this darkness.
"Twilight?" I yawned again and rubbed my eyes. "What is it? Don't you know what time it is right now?"
"I know exactly what time it right now." Twilight said, excitement clearly within her tone. "It's Winter Wrap Up!"
Winter Wrap Up? Where have I heard of that before? ...Oh! I remember now! Winter Wrap Up, the 11th episode of the first season! That's today?
"Come on Ash, get up!" Twilight said, turning on the lights that nearly blinded. "The first day of Spring is tomorrow! Everypony in Ponyville needs to clean up Winter. Hurry up and get ready!"
Cleaning up Winter...How the fuck is that a thing?
Nevertheless, I got up, stretched and went to my Mary Poppins' bag and produced a white cloak with black fur surrounding the hood. I put it on before putting on my backpack like I always do before I go out somewhere. Once I was done changing, I stepped out of my room just in time to hear Spike say, "Who cleans up Winter?" I asked myself the same question the first time I watched the episode my friend. "Don't they just use my magic to change thee season like we do in Canterlot?"
"No Spike." Twilight said, putting on a saddle surrounded by cotton. "Ponyville was started by Earth Ponies, so for hundreds of years they've never used magic to clean up Winter." Twilight then started to struggle putting on her saddle before she turned to me. "Uh, Ash? A little help please?"
I complied and helped Twilight put on her saddle properly as she continued to speak. "It's traditional."
"That's ridiculous." Spike said before he covered himself in his blanket. "No magic, pfft." Oh you'd be surprised at what we humans can do without magic.
Twilight then got finished getting dressed, putting on a scarf as she looked at check list to see if she got everything ready. Why she made the thing was beyond me. "Okay, let's see if I have everything. Scarf: check. Saddle: check. Boots: check. Spike refusing to get up and going back to sleep-" She actually put that down!? "Check. It's a good thing I'm so organized." A skill that will come in handy later.
"I'm ready!" Twilight said before opening the door. "Bright and early!" I followed her and saw that it was till night time as snow covered the yard.
"A bit too early, don't you think?" I asked, getting an embarrassed blush from Twilight. I sighed before taking out a shovel from my bag. "Well, this snow isn't gonna shovel itself."
"Is there anything I can do to help?" Twilight asked.
I took out another shovel and handed it to her. "You can help me shovel."
She took the shovel before asking, "So Ash, what do your kind do for Winter Wrap Up?"
"We don't have a Winter Wrap Up." I said, shoveling some snow before throwing it aside. "We just leave things alone and clear out any snow that happens to be in the way from time to time. We all don't gather up and start working together to clear away snow."
"Really?" Twilight asked, surprised and interested. "Then what do you do on the last day of winter?"
"We don't really do anything." I said, shoveling away more snow. I was a bit tired since I was woken up suddenly by Twilight, but I learned that the sooner one gets done with shoveling, the better. "If there's any snow still around when Spring hits, then we leave it alone until it melts from the heat of the sun. Unlike you ponies, we let nature take its course."
"Wow. Your world is sounding more and more like the Ever Free Forest." Twilight said. "The difference between out worlds is a lot more different than I thought it would be."
I shrugged and continued shoveling, wanting to get this done before breakfast.
(Morning)
Lucky for me and Twilight, we managed to finish up before the sun broke the horizon. We went back inside after I put away the shovels and used that time to ourselves to warm ourselves with steaming warm mug of hot chocolate. I missed this stuff. During this time, it occurred to me that my birthday was two days ago. Or was it months ago? I don't know, this world's time flow confuses me. After all the things I've been through in this world, I'm not surprised that I forgot my own birthday.
After warming up, Twilight informed me that the major was giving a speech to the citizens of Ponyville. She does this every year to announce the official beginning of Winter Wrap Up so right now, me and Twilight with Spike riding on Twilight's back were heading towards the Town Hall. Looking ahead, I saw a crowd gathered already, all wearing different vest that signified what they were in charge of doing.
"Those must be the Team Vest Rarity designed." Twilight said. "Blue for the Weather Team, green for the Plant Team, and tan for the Animal Team." Leave it up to Rarity to come up with the designs. "I wonder which Team Vest we'll be wearing?"
Woman, if you think I'm wearing one of those instead of my white cloak that I wore all winter then you got another thing coming.
"I'll take a blue vest." Spike muttered, still sleepy. "The same color as my blanky which I think hear calling my name." That's just the sleepiness talking Spike. Walk it off. He then did a made up voice of his blanket. "Spike! Spike! Come to bed!"
"Walk it off." I simply said as we made it to the Town Square.
"It's too early for this." Spike complained.
"You'll just have to deal with it my friend." I said before I turned my attention to the major.
"Thank you everypony for being here bright and early." For some of us, a bit too early. "We need every single ponies help to wrap up Winter and bring in Spring."
Everypony cheered while I just ate a piece of toast.
"Now all of you have your vests and have been assigned to your teams."
'Not everyone.' I thought as I stared at a jumping Twilight.
"So let's do even better than last year and have the quickest Winter Wrap Up ever!" Once again, everypony cheered at Major's speech.
"Oh, this is so exciting!" Twilight said.
"Alright everypony, find your Team Leader and let's get galloping!' Major finished up as everypony took off.
"Oh gosh! Where should I go?" Twilight asked as she looked around wildly. "I'm not sure where I fit in. What exactly does everypony do?"
I shrugged before jumping in surprise. Who turned off the lights!?
Three months of winter coolness, and awesome holidays!
Who the hell is shining that spotlight? And where did you come from Rainbow?
We've kept our hoovesies warm at home, time off from work to play.
Since when do you ever work Pinkie?
But the food we've stored is running out, and we can't grow in this cold!
Well, I guess that's just one of the advantages of being able to eat meat, unlike you ponies.
And even though I love my boots, this fashion's getting old.
Seriously? That's your reason Rarity? Freaking boots?
Seriously! Why is everyone singing!? ...Wait a minute. It can't be! The Winter Wrap Up song!?
The time has come to welcome Spring! And all things warm and green!
Twilight! Where're you going!? Wait up! And weren't you just worried a second ago?
But it's also time to say goodbye: It's Winter we must clean. How can I help? I'm new you see. What does everypony do? How do I fit without magic? I haven't got a clue!
"I'm sure you'll figure it out." I said, placing a hoof on her shoulder. She smiled back at me as the song continued.
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
And so it begins, one of the most addicting songs ever...Of all time...In history. I think I've been watching too much RvB, but I don't care cause that show is awesome!
Bring home the southern birds, a Pegasus' job begins. And clearing all the gloomy skies to let the sunshine in. We move the clouds and we melt the white snow. When the sun comes up, it's warmth and beauty will glow!
Sunshine rain down upon us, making Twilight literally sparkle, making her look a little pretty-whoa! Where did that thought come from?
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
So...How long does this song last again? I forgot.
Little critters hibernate under the snow and ice.
We wake up all the sleepy heads so quietly and nice.
We help them gather up their food, fix their homes below.
We welcome back the southern birds so their families can grow!
I felt something land on my head and when I went to look, I saw gray and white bird on my head, much to my annoyance. My head is not a nest! And stop giggling Twilight!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
Whoa! Before I knew what hit me, me, Twilight, and Spike were buried under snow. Sticking out heads up, we glared at the one who did this which was none other than Rainbow Dash. Why am I not surprised?
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
If wrapping up winter involves us being wrapped up in snow, then I want out.
No easy task to clear the ground, plant our tiny seeds. With proper care and sunshine, everyone it feeds. Apples, carrots, celery stalks, colorful flowers too. We must work so very hard, it's just so much to do!
Hey! I don't want to hear any complaining coming out of you! Now get back to work! ...Wow, that sounded mean.
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
Jesus! This song is kinda long! I followed Twilight as it was now her turn to sing.
Now that I know what they all do, I have to find my place! And help with all of my help, tough task ahead I face. How will I fit without magic, help the Earth Pony way? I wanna belong, so I must do my best today! Do my best today!
I once again placed a hoof on her shoulder. "I'm sure you'll do your very best Twilight. As some would say, 'Turn that frown upside down.'"
Twilight smiled in appreciation as the song finally continued.
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Twilight began to sing her heart out next to me as everypony surrounded us. Kinda creepy if you ask me.
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
'Cause tomorrow Spring is here!
...Is it over already? Aw~! I was enjoying the song. Well, as they say, all good things must come to an end. Now there's just one last thing I need to ask.
"How the hell did we all get all the way out here?" I asked, gesturing to our current location which was the middle of no where! Seriously, how the fuck did we get here!? Is anypony gonna answer!? No one? ...Figures.
(One unexplained teleportation later)
Okay, seriously! How the hell are we back here!? We were in the middle of no where just a second ago! Is this TV power!? Is this the power of television!? Someone tell me!
"Everypony belongs to a team." Twilight said, not noticing my freak out session which I later calmed down from. "What should we do? What should I do?"
Just when I opened my mouth for a suggestion, a blurry figure of Rainbow dashed passed us to instruct some other Pegasus' in the sky.
"Alright team, you're clear for take off!" Rainbow said as the winged ponies all flew off.
"Rainbow Dash!" Twilight called out as we made our way to the pony of Loyalty.
"Oh! Hey Twilight. Hey Ash." Rainbow greeted. "What's up?"
"What are you doing? Twilight asked.
"Sending off one of my flight crew to retrieve the birds that have flown south for the Winter." Are the birds unable to fly back by themselves, or are they just dumb? Probably not the latter.
"Oh! Can I help?" Both me and Rainbow gave Twilight an confused look. "How about I clear out the clouds?"
"Uh, Twilight?" I said, gesturing to Rainbow's wings who flapped them for me. "You kinda need wings for that."
"Oh, right."
"Sorry Twilight." Rainbow apologized before she flew off.
"Great. Now what do we do?" Twilight asked.
"Well, how about we do something about him first?" I said, pointing at a sleeping Spike sleeping on a bush.
"Oh for Pete's sake! Come on Spike! This is serious business!" Twilight said, trying to wake up the little dragon. "Winter needs to be wrapped up and I'm determined to do my part! Somehow..."
"Hey, don't look so down." I said, lifting up Spike and carrying him on my back. "I'm sure we can find something that you can help out at. Why don't we go visit the others, see if they need any help with anything?"
"That's a great idea Ash!" Twilight said. "How about we go see Rarity? Maybe she has something I can do to help?"
I simply shrugged. "It's worth a shot."
"Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!" Twilight then took off.
"Hey! Twilight! Wait up!" I called out before following.
(Outside Rarity's House)
After catching up with Twilight, we walked the rest of the way to her house. Once arriving there, I saw Rarity working on what seems to be a bird's nest.
"Rarity, please tell me there's something, anything I can do to help you with?" Twilight asked in a begging tone.
"Well, how would you like to help create Ponyville's finest bird's nest?" Okay, now I have to ask, are birds lazy or something?
"Bird's Nests?"
"Why yes." Rarity said before explaining. "When the Weather Team guides the birds back north for the Spring, they'll need a place to live and lay their eggs." Seems legit to me.
Me, Twilight, and a now awake Spike walked up and looked at one of the finished nests Rarity had made. It was a perfect bowl shape, made out of twigs and hay and was wrapped up with colored bows to keep it together. I will not lie, I am impressed.
"Wow Rarity. That one's really beautiful." Twilight commented.
"Oh why thank you most sincerely." Don't let it go to your head Rarity. "Would you two like to try your hoof at making a nest?"
"Would we!?" Wait, we? "Yes! Where do we begin!?" Hey! Don't decide things for me!
With her magic, Rarity placed down two baskets filled with twigs, straw, hay, and colored bows.
"Okay now. Take some of that straw and hay over there and a little bit of branch."
With no other choice, me and Twilight took each of our own piles and began to organize them so we wouldn't have difficulty picking the necessary things. Spike looked surprised at how fast we organized everything.
"Now, weave them through there-yes! Uh, take some ribbons, yes, oh, uh, um, not there, oooh yes, um, tuck in over there by the, but be careful not to, oh no, I guess that will do, oh dear."
To tell you the truth, I stopped listening when Twilight began to mess things up so instead of listening, I referred to my instruction manual. Why my Mary Poppins' bag had a 'How To Make A Bird's Nest' book is beyond me, but I wasn't complaining. Seeing as Twilight was still working on here's, I used my spare time to somehow make a bird house. Again, instruction manual. Where I got the wood, the bag. How I finished so fast, no clue.
"There!" I heard Twilight finishing up. Turning, I saw the most terrible looking nest I've ever seen, but I didn't say that out loud. "It looks just like...yours. Oh my."
"That nest needs to be condemned." I glared and bonked Spike's head for that comment.
"Oh Spike, it's not so bad. Maybe the birds can use as a..."
"An outhouse?" Again, I bonked his head for that.
"It's just fine. It's just a little rough around the edges." A little? "What about yours Ash? How's yours coming along?"
"Just finished." I said, presenting my nest and bird house, surprising the others.
"Ash, this nest looks wonderful." Rarity complimented before looking at the bird house. "Is this bird house is wonderful too. How did you make this so fast?"
"Practice." I lied.
Twilight seemed to be down again, but Rarity noticed this and quickly said, "Oh, not that yours isn't wonderful as well, Here, let me lend you a hoof." Twilight stepped aside so Rarity can work out the problems. "Let's just untie this ribbon, and if we take these sticks here..."
Twilight groaned and hanged her head. I walked up to her and placed a comforting hoof around her as Rarity continued to work with Twilight's nest.
"I think we lost her." I agreed with Spike when I saw that Rarity was no longer speaking to us directly.
"Just back away slowly Spike. Just back away slowly." I whispered as me and Spike silently left with Twilight.
(Few Hours Later-In Equestria Time-)
After we left Rarity to her lonesome, we came across one of many frozen lakes around Ponyville.
"Helloooooooooooooooooo~Twilight!" Looking down below, we saw Pinkie skating on the ice. "Helloooooooooooooooooo~Ash!"
"Wow Pinkie Pie! You're quite the skater." Twilight commented when we saw the pink pony's skills in skating and I have to admit, she was good. "Probably the best skater I ever seen."
"Thanks Twilight." Pinkie said, skating over to us. "I've been doing this ever since I been an ity, bity, little-little, twinky Pinkie! Just come naturally." She then began to show off her skating skills as she continued to talk. "Which is probably why they designated me the Lake Scorer." The Lake what now? "I cut lines in the lake with my skates. That way, when the rest of the Weather Team comes in to brake the ice, it'll be easy as pie!"
"How clever." I have to agree, that is clever. "When the thick ice begins to melt, it'll brake along the lines. Well you sure have a lot of work ahead of you. There's quite a few lakes here in Ponyville." I gave Twilight a look. I see what you're trying to do.
"Tell me about it." Pinkie said before stopping by us. "Hey, Twilight, do you Ash want to help me out?"
Before I could open my mouth...
"Would we!" Dammit! Don't put words in my mouth!
"Come on, put on those skates over there. I bet you two are a natural too." Don't bet on it Pinkie. I remember the last time I skated on ice, but then again, that was when I was still in kindergarten. I guess we'll see what happens.
...
...
...
Huh...This is easier than I remember. Maybe it was that time when I roller skated that helped me out? Still, I'm not at the skill level where I can do tricks or even jump so I settled for just skating along the ice. It was a bit hard at first, but once I found my balance, I was skating along the ice like any other person with okay experience. Pinkie Pie was being Pinkie Pie as always and Twilight...well, she looked like she was about to slip and fall. And she just got on the ice too. Poor girl.
"Uh, maybe on second thought-" I winced when Twilight slipped an slammed her face on the ice.
"What are you talking about? Spike said. "You said you wanted to be helpful." Pinkie, stop showing off! "Now get out there!" Spike then pushed Twilight onto the ice. This can't end well.
"Twilight! Steer! Steer!" Pinkie called out to the out of control Pony, but she was too out of control to do anything. She then headed for Pinkie. "Oh boy!" I watched as the two passed me and screamed, crashing into Spike and then crashed into a pile of snow.
"Guys!" I quickly skated over to them, almost slipping a few times before I made it to the three, kicking off my skates as I stared at the snowman comprised of all three of them. "Are you guys alright?"
All three off them shook off the snow as Pinkie answered, "We're OK Ash. Nothing to worry about."
Spike then let out childish laughter. "You are a natural Twilight! Haha, a natural disaster-Oof!" Huh? Well what do you know? Throwing a snowball at someone does shut them up.
"Don't listen to him Twilight. You did a great job your first time around." Pinkie said, getting off of Twilight. "I'm sure my first time was just as wobbly and blobbly and crasharific as yours."
"Really!?" Wait for it...
"...No." There it is. I sigh because let's face it, a beginner like Twilight couldn't possibly do a job like this. Spike was about to laugh again, but quickly shut up when he saw me tossing another snowball up and down. How the heck I made the thing so fast, I have no clue. Does this world give me super speed? I doubt it. "But did I make you feel better?"
"Haha...yeah, I guess." From that tone, I'm not so sure I agree with you.
Pinkie then turned to me and said, "You did pretty good too Ash. Well, you know, without the whole crashing thing."
"I have some experience." I admitted. "I'm no where as good as you though. I'm better at roller skating than ice skating. You can put some professionals I know(which is none) to shame."
"Why thank you!" Pinkie said, happy that I thought so high of her before she turned back to Twilight. "Oh, but don't worry Twilight. I bet you'll be super-awesome at something that keeps your hooves on the ground. Hey, I know; Fluttershy could probably use your help with the critters."
"Well, I'm pretty good with little animals." As long as they aren't stubborn bunnies like Mr. Angel, then we're good...hopefully. "Yeah, I'll go help her!" Twilight then began to slide down the ice in a comical fashion."
"Uh, Twilight? It's that way."
I watched as Twilight lost control again and crashed into another pile of snow.
I let Spike laugh a bit as I went to go help the poor Unicorn.
(Few Hours Later-In Equestria Time-)
The sound of a bell ringing caught our attention as we saw Fluttershy in one of the many dens around the area, trying to wake up what ever animal rested within. When we got closer, we saw that the animals were a couple of hedgehogs. They yawned before they scurried away to who knows where.
"Aw~! How cute!" Twilight cooed as she watched the little animals scurry off.
"Aren't they? This is my favorite task of the whole season." Considering that it's you Fluttershy, I can see why. "When I get to see all my little animal friends again."
"Uh...What's hibernation?" I gave a look of surprise to Spike.
"Spike, you're friends with one of the most intelligent ponies in all of Equestria and you say that you don't know what hibernation is?" I asked.
Spike gave me a shrug. "Sometimes when Twilight talks like a know-it-all," That got a glare from said pony. "it gets kinda hard to pay attention to her."
"Then allow me to explain. " I said before explaining. "Hibernation is passing the winter in a sleeping or inactive condition. Animals like bears, ground squirrels, woodchucks, and several other kinds of animals hibernate during the Winter." Spike just blinked at me. "Basically, think of it as a long sleep during the Winter."
"A long sleep?"
I nodded before Fluttershy took charge in explaining while waking up animals like porcupines. "Yes. Animals often hibernate through the winter to save their energy and eat less food."
"I like definitely like the idea of hibernation." Who doesn't? "Except the eat less food part." I nodded in agreement.
"Oh, but just look at all these worns and dens." Fluttershy said. "I'm worried that I won't be able to wake up every animal before Spring comes."
"Well, we a help Fluttershy." Dammit woman! Stop making decisions for me!
"Oh, you will?" Gh! Fluttershy's giving me that look and Twilight just nodded her head. I can't back down now. "Oh thank you! That would be wonderful." Fluttershy then gave the bell she has to Twilight before turning to me. "Follow me Ash. I have a few extra bells for us to use."
I nodded and followed her to get more bells as Twilight left for a random den. I feel like I'm forgetting something, but what is it? I shrugged and thought it was probably nothing.
We made it to a nearby tree with a bag laying against it. Digging through the bag, Fluttershy produced a bell and handed it to me before getting one for herself.
"Okay Ash, why not picking a random den to start at?" Flutterhsy suggested.
I did as told and picked a random den. I rang the bell and said, "Oi! Little animals! Time to wake up! Spring's coming!" I stepped back and waited to see which animal would pop out which turned out to be...rabbits. Huh, how ironic. I was born in the year of the rabbit. I counted three rabbits and one just so happened to hop next to me and nuzzle against my leg.
Okay, I will admit, as a cartoon, these things were kind of cute.
A scream then caught my attention as I turned and saw a backing up Twilight, trying to get away from some snakes.(O~h! That's what I forgot. Oops.) How was she afraid of snakes when she faced a dragon?
I saw her backing into a cave before running out screaming as multiple bats flew out, making me think of Batman(I always think of Batman when I think or see bats).
And that's just the icing on the cake.
As I walked up next to Fluttershy and Spike, with a rabbit following me, I saw Twilight crash into a tree, making a bee hive fell and landed on Twilight, trapping her dead within the hive where she later ran away from the bees within.
'This is just getting ridiculous.' I thought as I facehoofed.
It then got worse for the purple Unicorn when she ran into a random den as none other than a skunk walked out, a faint trail of green coming out of the den. Me and Spike immediately covered out noses in order to not take in the horrible smell as Fluttershy went and greeted the skunks, the rabbit from earlier now gone thanks to the stink.
"Good morning friends.' Fluttershy greeted. "I hope you all had a wonderful rest this Winter."
I looked into the den and called out, "Twilight! You okay in there?"
All I got was a groan from inside.
(Twilight's House)
"Oooh...All this Winter Wrap Up stuff is a lot harder than it looks." Twilight complained as Spike scrubbed the poor Unicorn who was currently bathing in a pool of tomato sauce. I always did wonder if tomato sauce got rid of a skunk's...well, skunk. Maybe today will show me if it was true or not.
"Right, because there's no magic." Spike said in irritation, covering his know with his free hand. What was I doing? Playing Pokemon: Omega Ruby with a towel on standby for her. I just got done taking out all the Elite Four and was now battling the Champion: Steven. Currently, it was his last Pokemon, a Mega Metagross Vs. my Mega Sceptile and I was winning. "Why don't you just use magic Twilight and get it done the right way?"
"No Spike, I have to do it the traditional way." Twilight insisted which was probably a good thing. Over the last few months, I saw that Twilight relied on magic way too much which wasn't a good thing. Doing this 'traditionally' will probably do her some good. "Ponyville has never needed magic to wrap up Winter."
"But they've never had you here before either." Spike objected. "Think how quicker they can wrap up Winter with tour magic?"
"No, no no!" Twilight objected back. "I'm gonna find some other how I can help out even if it kills me!" Hey! Don't say that! I never like it when people say that. "Besides, look at Ash. He's an Earth Pony yet look at how much he's helped so far with everything we've been through today." Hey! Don't drag me into this conversation!
"Spike, just leave Twilight alone." I said, currently focused on the battle I was in right now which was me against May, my rival. In my option, Wally was a better rival, even though I've only faced the guy two times. Right now, it was my Mega Sceptile Vs. May's Mega Blaziken and currently...I was winning even though I was at a type disadvantage. Shit like this only happens in the anime. "If Twilight wants to do things the traditional way, then let her."
"Thank you Ash." Twilight said, glad to have someone library agreeing with her before she grunted in displeasure when Spike poured the next can of tomato sauce.
Back to my game. Boom! Leaf Storm for the win bitch! Your fire type got nothing on Yasha(What I call my Sceptile)!
(After cleaning up)
""Keep pushing Caramel!" I heard AJ shout as we approached the snow covered fields as ponies were shoveling the snow in convenient creative shovel carts. "That's it Bumpkin! I know it's hard work, but you guys are doing great! Yee-haw!"
"Hey Applejack." Twilight greeted the Earth Pony. "How's everything going?"
"Oh just dandy." AJ said. "Little slow starting, but peachy all the same. There's a lot of ground to clear, ya hear? We can't even start the planting and the watering until we get all this heap of snow high-tailed out of here."
"Well, we'd like to help." Dammit woman! Again!? Stop making decisions for me!
Before I could speak my thoughts, AJ spoke up.
"Well, I-I don't know Twilight." The uncertainty in her voice is as clear as day. "Ash, maybe." Wait, what? "Besides, we only have one free cart left."
"Then let me do it!" Twilight replied, rather quickly if I might add. "Please! Just give me a chance!"
"Well...I never turn down a hard worker, but..." That was all Twilight needed to hear before she went up and got into the last cart. Me, Spike, and AJ watched as Twilight tried to move the cart, but because of her low strength, it didn't even move an inch. AJ and Spike shook their heads when Twilight looked back at us. As for me, I took off my backpack, know what Twilight was going to do after this.
"Look after this for me." I said, surprising them a bit before I approached the Unicorn who looked like she was debating something.
"I could use a come to life spell."
"I wouldn't do that if I were you." Twilight jumped when I spoke up. "Make some room, would you?" She complied and I got in. A bit cramped, I will admit, but nothing we can't handle. "Alright, listen up. Since you wanted me to join in on this in the first place, we are going to move this together, ya hear me?" She nodded. "Good. Now come on. Help me move this thing."
"I can do this on me own."
"And let you use magic when you wanted to do things the traditional way? Nuh uh. Now come on, we got work to do."
"I said I can do this on my own!" I jumped in surprise at Twilight's sudden outburst. The both of us were silent for a few minutes before complied to Twilight's request.
"Alright, suit yourself." I said, getting out and heading towards the others.
"What'd she say? I heard yelling." AJ asked as soon as I made it back.
"She said that she could do it on her own, so I left so she could figure out how to do that." I said, putting my backpack back on. Looking back, I saw the cart glow a faint light before it started to move. Guess she used magic after all.
"Huh...She's offer strong for such a little pony." AJ commented.
I simply watched as Twilight passed by us, looking proud of herself. I couldn't help but let out a sigh of disappointment.
"That's my girl! Following my advice." Spike said when he saw Twilight's horn glowing.
"And what in tarnation does that mean?" AJ asked.
I then saw things taking a turn for the worse when I saw the cart speeding up. It only got faster an faster every few seconds until it was heading towards us. Being human in the first place, I did the first thing that came into my mind.
I moved out of the way. And in time too as Twilight crashed into AJ and Spike, trapping them in the giant snow ball, now the size of a boulder and still growing my the second. Did I feel bad for letting AJ and Spike get caught? Absolutely none what so ever.
With nothing else to do, I decided to chase after them as best I can. I ran after the speeding cart and just when I felt like shouting, "Stop! Pull over! This is the police!" the cart crashed into a hill side, causing a small avalanche heading towards...me...
Shit.
...
...
...
Gasp! Pleh! Pew!
I can now see why snow avalanches are so dangerous, I thought I was gonna die from the cold and suffocation!
"Nuts Twilight!" Turning, I saw the heads of Twilight, AJ and Spike and right now, AJ did not look happy. "You used magic!"
"The nerve! Can you believe her!?" I glared at the dragon, managing to get my body out of the snow. If I remember correctly, it was you who wanted Twilight too use magic!
Aj just ignored Spike and turned back to Twilight. "That's not how we do it around here Twilight, and especially not on my farm!"
"Well, see..." The shivering cold that surrounded my body immediately vanished when I saw Twilight in the brink of tears. "I-I just wanted to...Ooh!" I blinked in surprise when Twilight leapt from the snow and ran away, passing mad looking Earth Ponies along the way.
An emotion I haven't felt since Gilda started to resurface within me. It was a feeling of rage, of anger, and right now, I needed to direct it at someone.
I glared at AJ who flinched under my gaze before looking towards all the mad ponies that continued to watch Twilight running away.
"Hey!" Everyone jumped at the volume of my voice. "What are you all doing!? Get back to work!"
"But she just-!"
"Applejack, cover Spike's ears." I didn't even check to see if AJ complied or not as I yelled out the loudest I've ever had in my life. "I SAID: GET THE FUCK BACK TO WORK!" Everypony literally jumped this time. "MOVE YOUR FUCKING ASS AND START WORKING! OR DO YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT THE INSIDE OF PONY LOOKS LIKE!?" That got everypony back to work. I took a couple of deep breathes to calm down before turning to AJ who did indeed cover Spike's ears, removing them when I turned to them. "You two, stay here. I'm going after Twilight."
And just like I said, I ran off after Twilight.
(Town Hall)
If I remember correctly, Twilight should be around here somewhere, hiding in bush. Thing is that there are more than one bush so I had to look around as ponies all around me continued to work.
"Twilight!" I yelled out as I walked around. "Twilight, where are you?"
"I'm right here." I literally jumped when a muffled yet familiar voice spoke next to me. And just like the episode, she was hiding in bush.
"Twilight, I don't think hiding in an icy bush is gonna help in any way possible." I began jokingly. "Come on Twilight, get out of there."
"Why? So I can cause another disaster with my so-called 'help'?" That downcast reply made me blink in surprise.
"That wasn't your fault-"
"Yes it was!" Wow, she is REALLY upset. "I'm a winter mess-up. I allowed my reliance on magic to get the better of me, and in doing so I made things worse for the hard-working citizens of Ponyville. I knew I shouldn't have followed Spike's advice."
I said nothing at first, sitting down next to the bush and allowed a moment of silence to envelop ourselves. Finally, I spoke up. "You listened to Spike, that's your problem. You followed advice from a kid and you payed for it. Instead of following his advice, you could have either figured out another way to move the damn cart or accept help from someone. Besides, why are you making such a big deal over this? I'm sure there are other things around town that you can help at."
"That's nice of you to say Ash, but we both know that's not true." Damn, She saw through it. "I've done nothing but disturb and distract my friends from their own parts of wrapping up Winter. I wish I were you Ash."
I raised a confused eyebrow to the bush. I did not expect her to say that.
"Why in Equestria would you want to be me?"
"Ash, in case you haven't noticed, you've done all the things I couldn't do. You were able to make a nest plus a bird house, you skated with Pinkie, and you helped Fluttershy wake up the animals. You even tried to help me, but I pushed you away."
...Oh...my...god! Have I been making Twilight feel inferior!? Shit! I mean, I know this is a television show, but I didn't think I would pull off something seen mostly on TV! Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! No wonder she yelled at me earlier!
"Twilight, those were just little things I got dragged into. That's no reason to feel down." I got to do something before this goes bad.
"But-"
"No but's!" I quickly said. "Listen Twilight, just because you couldn't do a couple of simple things doesn't mean you have to be me. I'm me and I can only be me. And you, Twilight, can only be Twilight. You're already great at being yourself, don't change that."
She scoffed at me. "What's so good at being me when all I do is mess things up?"
I went into a thinker pose. "Well let's see, you were the only one who knew about Nightmare Moon's return when everyone else thought it was just some silly tale, and if I remember correctly, you were able to send that Ursaminor back into its cave peacefully. Not only that, but your the wielder of the Element of Magic and are the student of the one and only Princess Celestia." I ignored the collective gasps coming from passing by ponies. "If that's not enough for you, then how about being the most intelligent pony in all of Ponyville?"
After a few more moments of silence, Twilight spoke in a muffled and meek voice. "You really think I'm the most intelligent pony in all of Ponyville?"
I chuckled and smiled. "Of course. I wouldn't be saying this if I wasn't."
"...Thanks Ash...and I'm sorry for yelling at you earlier."
"You're forgiven." I said before I heard a familiar voice call out.
"Ash!" Turning, I saw Spike making his way to me. By the time he got here, he was out of breath, hands on his knees as he took a moment to catch his breath. "I'm glad...I...finally caught up...with you."
"Deep breathes Spike, deep breathes." I said, afraid that the dragon might faint from exhaustion.
At my suggestion, Spike took a couple of deep breathes before he spoke. "Have you seen Twilight?"
"Right here Spike." Like me, Spike jumped in surprise when he heard Twilight.
"Twilight, what're you doing in there?"
"Isn't it obvious?" I said. "She's hiding."
"I was asking her."
"What Ash said."
I allowed a small laugh to escape me before I turned to Spike. "Spike, I thought I told you to stay with Applejack?"
"Yeah, well, she said she had to go talk too Rainbow Dash about something so I just thought come and find you." Spike explained before he raised his hands in defense. "Please don't yell at me."
"Yell? Why would Ash yell at you?" Twilight asked, and eye peeking from the bush in curiosity.
"He yelled at the workers after you ran off." Spike explained.
"You what!?"
"I got angry when I saw you crying so I had to direct my anger towards something." I explained. "I didn't like how the workers were giving you angry glares so I took it out on them."
"You should have seen it Twilight. I've never seen Ash so angry before, it kinda scared me to be honest." Spike said. "Though, I couldn't hear what he was saying because Applejack suddenly covered my ears. What did you say Ash?"
"I'll tell you when you're older."
"But-"
"When you're older!" Twilight would not be happy with me if Spike learned how to curse because of me.
"Rainbow Dash!" Hearing the voice of AJ, I turned and saw her talking to Rainbow. "Y'all on the Weather Team need to melt the rest of this snow here on the ground and trees, pronto!"
"Got it!" Rainbow went to help, but was stopped by none other than Fluttershy.
"You can't! Or the poor little animals homes will be flooded if the snow melts too fast."
"Got it."
"I'm tellin' ya Rainbow, ya gotta melt that snow, now!"
"No! You simply must wait!"
"O-kay..."
"Go!"
"Stop!"
At this pint, me and Spike were exchanging glances between the two ponies. Let's see, which one's more important? Food or animals? Damn, that's a tough decision. I don't think Rainbow choose with circumstances like these.
"Ugh! Just make up your mind! You're driving me crazy here!" See? What I tell ya?
"Oh!" And here comes the major. "What in all of Equestria are you arguing about? This sort of silliness is why we were late for Spring last year! And the year before that! And the year before that!"
"Sheesh, what a disorganized town." Spiked agreed with me by nodding.
"Did she say...late?" Both me and the dragon blinked in surprise when Twilight finally popped out of the bush, looking over at the scene in surprise and worry.
A small smirk made its way to my face. I know where this is going.
"I was hoping my amazingly inspirational speech-" Don't flatter yourself Miss Major. "-would urge everyone to do better than last year, but it now seems that we'll be even later than ever! I mean, just look at all this catastrophe!"
We followed the major's gaze.
"The Ice Scorers made the ice chunks too big to melt!" It's not your fault Pinkie.
"The nest designer is horrendously behind. We need several hundred and she's only made two!" Sorry about that Rarity but at least you got a bird house.
"And don't get me started on all the clouds still in the sky , the icicles on the trees, this isn't good; not at all!"
"And it's gonna be all to pieces disaster if we don't our seeds all planted."
"Chillax Applejack! We're busting out chops as fast as we can!"
"No! Not fast! We have to wake the animals slowly."
From then on, an argument broke out from all sides as ponies gathered, speaking out their complaints. This could turn into a real mess if something isn't done right away. Luckily, there's a pony right next to me that can help.
"Well Twilight, you know what to do."
She blinked in surprise. "I do?"
Spike joined in. "She does?"
I nodded. "You see Twilight, the damage you've done is minimal compared to the yearly mess these guys face. How about coming out of that bush and helping the town be, oh I don't know...organized?"
What I said seemed to spark something inside Twilight as she jumped out of the bush. "Spike! Get my check list and clip board, stat!"
"Y-Yes ma'am!" I watched as Spike dashed away before tuning to Twilight.
"Ash!" No need to yell. "Are you up to helping this town become more organized?"
I raised an eyebrow before asking, "Does a cow produce milk?" She just gave me a smile and that's all I needed. "Lead the way."
With more confidence that I've seen in her all day, we made our way to the crowd of arguing ponies.
"Stop everypony! Stop!" Twilight yelled, but her voice fell to deaf ears.
Hmm, since Spikes no longer here..."EVERYONE SHUT THE FUCK UP RIGHT NOW!" Immediately, all arguing stopped, everypony turning towards us as I gave them my best death glare. "Now listen up, and listen well. You all are gonna stand there like good little ponies and listen. Do I make myself clear?" They all nodded at a speed that would have made anime characters proud. "Good." I then turned to Twilight who was rubbing her ears from my shout. "They're all yours."
She nodded in appreciation and annoyance before turning her attention to all of the surprised(and scared) ponies. "Listen everyone. I know you all want yo complete your jobs on time, but arguing is no way to go about it. In order for Spring to come we need to work together and to accomplish that, there's one thing we need." At that moment, Spike came back with a clip board and pen. "Organization. And I'm just the pony for the job."
I looked around before speaking up again. "Well, what are you standing around for?" I ignored all the looks they gave me. "Let's get to work. We've got a deadline to meet ponies."
That got them moving. Me, Spike, and Twilight all smiled.
(The Next Day)
The wrap up was a big success. With the help on ponies, Rarity got the help she needed, just enough nest in time. With planning, mapping, and organization, the Ice Scorers were able to skate on the ice, making perfect squares where they'll soon be melted without a problem. With organized groups, ponies shoveled the snow and the parts that were shoveled were plowed and the parts that were plowed were soon planted. With some bells and rope, with a simple pull of a rope, we got multiple animals to wake up and come out of their dens, although Twilight was still scared of the snakes. Once everything was done, Fluttershy signaled a bird cry out, signalling for the Weather Team to start getting rid of the clouds in the sky to let the sunshine in, literally drilling through clouds. Gurran Lagann would be proud. Now with the sunshine warming up the area, ponds and rivers melted into water, leaving only planting to be done. Since Ponyville was still a pretty big place, it took the rest of the day to finish everything up, but by the next day where the Weather Team brought the southern birds back, we had water and nests for them(they better be grateful, lazy bastards), animals were flying around and swimming in the waters, insects were collecting nectar from the grown flowers, in short...
"A job well done." I said, walking up next to Twilight as we both gazed upon the now Winter free Ponyville. Once again, I will say it. Spring is my very favorite season, good to have you here Spring.
"I couldn't agree more." Twilight said, smiling at the results of everyone's hard work.
"I can't believe it." The major said, walking up to us as she and everypony gazed upon the results. "Spring is here! On time! And we have you, Twilight, to thank for it. If it wasn't for your organizing skills, we would still be arguing."
"Hey, don't forget everypony else. They helped out too." I pointed out.
"Ash is right. It was a team effort." Twilight said.
"And since you helped every team, we have an official vest for you." Seriously? A vest? That's all she gets? No trophy, no nothing? Just a simple vest? Though, considering Twilight, she'll accept anyway. "We give you the title: All Team Organizer!" Damn...What a lame title.
I gazed at the vest Twilight was given. It was a mix of every vest with blue on the top, green at the bottom, and tan around the sleeve and zipper. It also came with a sash with all three colors on it with a yellow star on top.
"Gosh, I don't even know what to say. Thank you everypony!" Twilight said. I smiled at Twilight as I garbed my original black cloak. "But I couldn't have done it without my good friend Ash." Wait, what?
I blinked in surprise when everypony's attention was on me. Shit! I don't do good with crowds!
"It was Ash here who helped me realize what I could do to help out. So if anything, much of the credit goes to him as well." Twilight said, handing me the sash which I dumbly took. "Let's give it up for Ash everypony!" Everypony then began to cheer and clap for me. At that moment, I did the only thing I could think of.
I took a step back and hid behind a tree.
"Hey look! He's acting like Fluttershy!" Not helping Rainbow!
I draped the hood over me once everyone began to laugh. Curse my shyness! I thought I got rid of it after all the crazy shit I've been through this year, but I guess not.
"Jokes aside, I hereby declare that Winter...is wrapped up on time!" That announcement was followed by tons of cheering before followed by laughter when Aj commented on the sleeping Spike on the ice. I will not lie, I was also laughing too.
(Twilight's House)
"Dear Princess Celestia, Winter Wrap Up is one of the most special things I've ever been a part of here in Ponyville; it helped me learn to that we all have hidden talents, and if we're patient and diligent, we're sure to find them. And as always with good friendship and teamwork, ponies can accomplish anything!" Twilight looked proudly out the window for learning that lesson today and I couldn't help but smile as I made my way to the two with two mugs of hot chocolate that I made while following the instructions on the cook book. "How's that Spike? ...Spike?"
I laughed a little as I laid the dragon's hot chocolate next to him. After what happened to him, I think he deserves a little hibernation of his own.
"Oh Spike..." Twilight couldn't help but laugh too.
"Can you blame him? He did almost drown in freezing water." I said, handing her a mug of her own before getting the one I made for myself from the table.
"True." Twilight said while taking a sip of the hot drink. "This is pretty good Ash."
"I'm glad to hear that. I wasn't sure it turned out good since this is the first time I made this without packaged ingredients."
"It's just fine." Twilight assured me. "Thanks, and thank you for helping me and the town wrap up Winter."
"It's the least I can do." I said, taking a sip. It's actually not that bad. "You and everypony are allowing me to stay here so the least I can do is help out in a town event." Twilight took a glance at Spike before asking, "So, how long do you think he'll be asleep this time?"
"Probably long enough for me to do all of his chores." I let out an exaggerated sigh. "How I envy him."
Twilight laughed at me while I draped my cloak around the freezing dragon. Don't want him to catch a cold now.
"Hey, Ash..." I turned to Twilight. "Did you mean what you said yesterday? About me being...the 'most intelligent pony in all of Ponyville'; do you really think that?"
I raised an eyebrow at the Unicorn who looked embarrassed asking the question in the first place. I chuckled a bit before saying, "Twilight, I don't think, I know."
Twilight's face then went red before she turned away and looked out the window, drinking more of her hot chocolate.
"Twilight? Are you OK?" I asked, concerned. "Do you have e fever or something?" Why in the world was she so red and why was I having the sense of deja vu?
"I'm fine! Perfectly fine!" Twilight said that rather quickly.
I raised my eyebrow in confusion, but decided not to dwell on it, looking out the window with Twilight. Then, a sudden thought came to my head and I asked...
"Hey Twilight."
"Hm?"
"When snow melts, what does it become?"
Twilight was obviously confused, but she answered anyway. "It becomes water."
I made the sound of a buzzer. "Wrong!"
"What!? How am I wrong!?"
"Silly girl. Snow does not become water after it melts..." I turned to her and smiled. "It becomes Spring." Yes! I've always wanted to say that!
Twilight was silent for a moment before she smiled. "That's true. Why didn't I think of that?"
I laughed and soon, Twilight joined in laughing as well.
Truly, this was one good way to start off Spring.
*Comes out of Portal* Haha! New record! This is by far the longest chapter to date! I feel so accomplished! Anyway, happy early Spring everyone...damn that is weird to say but oh well. I hoped you all enjoyed today's chapter, I know I did and like always, here comes the brohoof.
*Incoming Brohoof*
If none of you caught that reference I did in the end, then look it up. This has been Ashbel Longhart here, signing out. See you fellow readers and bronies next time.