Disclaimer: All MLP:FiM characters belong to Hasbro and DHX Media. I do not own any of them except my OC.
I was walking through the castle and apparently the map had another friendship mission. Not for me however. Sad, but whatever. Twilight said "I can't believe you two are going on a Friendship Quest!" It's not that great. "This is amazing!" Maybe for you. Twilight slapped me across the neck and I snarled in pain. That didn't feel nice. She can be no fun sometimes. Applejack asked "What do ya mean, Twilight?" What do you think she means, Applejack? "We've been together on one before." You have? I don't remember that. Huh. Weird. I can remember important historical events, but I can't remember if two ponies have been on a friendship mission twice. Twilight said "Exactly! This is the first time the map has teamed up the same ponies for a second quest." Wait. I think I remember now. Season 6 Episode 20. Both of them went to Las Pegasus. Yes, now I remember. I had to jog my memory a bit. Even the author had to think about that one. Fluttershy said "That is special." It definitely is. History has been made once again. Applejack said "Must be 'cause we're extra good at solvin' friendship problems." I said "Don't get too cocky because that's how it leads to problems. I'm just saying." Everypony just stared at me and I rolled my eyes. They were saying it as a joke, but my stupid brain took it literal. That's just how it's built. Nothing I can do about it.
Twilight said "Anyways, I hope you don't run into problems. Cause it looks like this one might be a little tricky." That's the Tree for ya. "You're going to the Peaks of Peril." I looked at the map and said "Well, the Tree is always picking a good challenge and I can't wait to see what comes out of this one." They all stared at me again and I rolled my eyes. "What? I'm the Guardian of the Tree of Harmony. I have to keep up to date with these things. I manage these things and it's up to me to make sure they go right. Seriously, when are you ponies going to finally realize this is what I do for a living? Oi vey." I hope they understand someday. "Anyways, the Peaks of Peril does look quite interesting." Fluttershy asked scared "The… Peaks of… P-P-Peril?" What? It's not that bad. Good grief. Applejack said "Aw, it's just a name." Exactly. That's all it is. Nothing more. Nothing less. "It doesn't mean anything." Well, Fluttershy seems to think otherwise. She said "Like how Cloudsdale is in the clouds, and the Crystal Empire is made of crystals?" I guess that's a fair point, but I'm not understanding what you are trying to throw across here. You have to be a bit more specific on that one. Applejack said "Fair point." I guess. "So what can you tell us about the place, Twilight?" Not much probably.
Twilight said "Only what Rockhoof told me." He knows about that? Dang. It must have been around for a really long time. "Back in his day, nopony knew much about the Peaks of Peril." Makes sense since it was still the "cut parts away" environment back then. Anyone who was not a pony was considered inferior to them and would be forbidden to step in Equestria. Thankfully, the times have changed, and that doesn't happen as much anymore, so yeah. "Except for the legend on this ancient shield." Wow. That's actually pretty cool. "It says a group called the Kirin used to live there, known for their kindness and truth-speaking." Hmm, how ironic. Good job on that one Hasbro. Applejack said "Now we know why the map called us." Not necessarily. There's still more to the story than you think. Twilight said "Unfortunately, other creatures also lived there. The Nirik. Fearsome beasts of pure fire." Woo wee. Those creatures look demon-like, not gonna lie. I could probably easily defeat one of those, but they still are terrifying regardless. Fluttershy shuddered in fear and said "Maybe… you should go instead of me, Twilight. Or even you Zachary." I said "I'm sorry, but that's not how that works. Flanks don't lie unless your name is Discord, but you get my point. Second, I only manage these missions, I don't go on them."
Fluttershy asked "How come?" I said "Well, since I'm the Guardian of the Tree of Harmony, I have to look after it to make sure it stays protected. It's kinda like an alliance if you want to call it that. The Tree gives me its magic in exchange for protection by me. So because of that, I only work behind the scenes and manage everything with these kinds of things while the Tree tells me if anything rises up and I need to go stop it. It's kinda complex, but that's the best way I can explain it." Twilight said "That's actually pretty amazing. That does explain now why the map has never called you on friendship missions." I said "It never has and it never will. I have the scepter to tell me that. The only things that I need to stop is physical fighting that escalates into violence and can either turn into a riot or a full blown war. I mean, it would be kinda nice to go on friendship missions, but I like working behind the scenes better. It suits me because it's perfect for my introverted personality." Applejack said "I'm sure the two of us'll get that friendship problem solved, no matter what kinda creature has it." I said "Oh, that's the other thing. Niriks are the exact same creature as the Kirin." Applejack asked "What are ya talkin' about?" I said "I know that's hard to believe because of the legend, but the reason why I say that is because whenever Kirin get mad and starts saying hurtful things, they turn into Niriks and destroy everything in their path. Allow me to demonstrate." I charged up my scepter and put up a screen showing what happens when Kirins get mad. After a little bit, I put it away and they were shocked. "You see what I mean? You do not want to mess with these creatures. I could easily defeat one, but they are still pretty terrifying, so try and not to get on their bad side or else they'll make sure you'll pay the penalty for it. Good luck and I wish you well."
I went into my shadow form and disappeared into the either. Applejack and Fluttershy went on the train and I followed them to see where they were going. I had to be in my shadow form or else ponies would recognize me, so I have to stay in this form in order to stay low. The train came all the way to the end of the line and when both of them got off, they went towards the mountain. However, it was super windy and their manes were blowing in their face. Applejack said "Guess nopony else is goin' out as far as we are." You would be correct. The wind stopped blowing and Fluttershy said "Maybe they know something we don't." That's ridiculous. I'm one of the only creatures who even knows about these species. So there is nothing to be scared about. Applejack said annoyed "Now Fluttershy, I've told you a dozen times! There's nothing to be scared-" before somepony let out a growl which scared both of them. The old pony said "I'm sorry." Dang that's creepy. Fluttershy screamed and hid behind Applejack. Honestly, it's not that bad. She said "You really startled us!" I saw it coming, so I didn't get phased by it. The old pony said "It's just that I'm not used to seeing anypony taking the train to the end of the line." I guess that is pretty rare, but it does happen. "The final destination." Isn't this the same pony that appeared in Season 9 and told the CMC's to venture through the creepy forest if they wanted to get to the fair in Appaloosa? Sure does seem like it to me.
"The last stop!" Okay, I think we get the point now. Applejack said "We get the picture." Thank you Applejack for pointing out the obvious. It's a nice change for once not being the only one who knows these things. It's so annoying. "Why?" I think you might find out here. The old pony said "Nothing but uncharted terrain and wild beasts out that way." Okay, who cares? I sure don't and I doubt anypony else who isn't terrified of the stupidest things like a coward would be either, so save your breath for someone who actually is a coward so you can embarrass them heavily. The dude gave evil laughs and went back inside his post. Both of them had worried glances and I rolled my eyes. That dude does not scare me one bit. Applejack said "Well, maybe there's a little somethin' to be scared of." Now you're just talking nonsense. The Niriks aren't even around. They only come out when Kirin get super mad and take their rage out on something. They continued walking and Fluttershy stopped to talk to the squirrels while Applejack kept going the long way. Oh boy this is going to be interesting. She made it up to the top and had to catch her breath. "Those must be the Peaks of Peril." You would be correct. "Tough goin', huh Fluttersh… Fluttershy?" Yeah, she didn't follow you. You waited all this time and you didn't realize she was with you until you made it to the top? Bruh.
This will be fun. Applejack grunted in frustration and went back the other way. I'm not even breaking a sweat. Once Applejack got back to the bottom, she saw a squirrel hand a flower to Fluttershy and was shocked. Fluttershy said "There. That should be enough flowers to keep your tree cozy." However, Applejack stomped over and she looked peeved. I could tell she was not happy. It makes sense. She said "Fluttershy! What are you doin'? This is no time for visitin' varmints!" HEY! Chill. Squirrels are not varmints. Yes, they are annoying sometimes, but they aren't considered bad or evil. "We're on a friendship quest, remember?" Yes, we get that, now calm down, will you? Fluttershy said "Yes, but actual…" before Applejack cut her off and said "Come on! We're burning daylight." I can keep the Sun up all day if you wish. I'm sure Celestia would be mad at me and try and fix it, but her magic won't have any effect on mine, so there. Fluttershy said again "I know, but what I found out is that…" before Applejack cut her off again by saying "Now, we gotta get up that peak! I figure if we use some rope and elbow grease, we can make it up half…" How do you use elbow grease? You don't even have arms for crying out loud. That doesn't make any sense. Anyways, Fluttershy had enough and said "Applejack! Can you please listen to me?!" Yes, mother. I'm listening.
"What I'm trying to say is, the squirrels told me a short cut they take to the Kirin village." Now that's smart. Applejack followed Fluttershy to the secret passage and Fluttershy pushed the rock revealing the entrance and Applejack realized her mistake. She said "Oh. Heh heh. Sorry, Fluttershy. I s'pose I got a little too caught up in the adventure." It happens, but that's why you always want to listen to your friends. Fluttershy said "That's all right. If you hadn't come back to get me, I probably would've talked to the squirrels all day." I don't know how you would get bored with that. They made it to the other side and they both gasped in amazement. Wow. This place is pretty nice, not gonna lie. Suddenly, there was rustling in the bushes and Fluttershy clung to Applejack. "I hope that's not a Nirik." It's not. I promise. They are not here right now. Then, the rustling began to pick up and I noticed Kirin everywhere. I'm guessing they're not used to having visitors around. Seems fair to me. Applejack said "Show yourself!" I'm not sure if they'll do that. The Kirin all came out and just stared at them. That's kinda creepy. Why does the leader look so much like Celestia? Not the colors, but the body shape. Hmm. How odd, but fitting as well.
"Um, hi. I'm Applejack and this here is Fluttershy." They just continued to stare which really was quite awkward and very creepy to be honest. Even I can't take the sheer amount of awkwardness and embarrassment that just reeks out of this place. Fluttershy said "If you have any friendship problems, we're here to help!" Well, that was bold. They turned their heads in confusion and continued to stare. Applejack said "Huh. Quiet bunch, ain't they?" I think I know why. "We're from Equestria. And we're plum-tickled to meet y'all." I would have given up by now. Call me a wimp all you want, but this amount of awkwardness and cringe that comes from this is too much to bear, so deal with it. "So… What are your names?" They said nothing. This is starting to become too painful to watch. Yes, I pick this as too painful to watch over stuff like someone dying or needles being injected into a bunny's butt. I know, I know. Crazy. But that's just how I am. "Applejack. Fluttershy. Remember?" How would they remember that? They've never met creatures like you before. Fluttershy said "Maybe they don't understand us." Oh, they do understand you, they just can't talk. You'll find out why later on. Applejack said "Do. You. Understand. Ponish?" The leader nodded her head. They can speak english, but they can't talk. Once again, you'll figure out why later.
Fluttershy said "Oh. But you don't speak?" It appears not. The leader shook her head no and Applejack said "Don't or won't?" Both probably. Fluttershy said "Will you excuse us for a moment?" Sure, no problem. Go right ahead. Take your time. "You have to ask "yes or no" questions, or they won't answer." You have to do that with anyone who can't speak. Applejack said "Like talkin' to Angel Bunny?" Not really. Fluttershy said "Not exactly. I can always tell what Angel is feeling." Yeah, because he acts like a toddler and does body motions to emphasize it. "But these Kirin, don't show anything." They are more difficult to tell because they don't use outward expressions to tell you what they are doing or what they want. Applejack facehoofed and said "Well, how are we gonna solve a friendship problem if none of 'em will tell us what it is?!" It's not that simple. You'll figure it out. "These Kirin are quieter than an apple blossom on snowfall." Well, that's an interesting comparison. "Still. There's gotta be some way to make 'em speak." Good luck with that. She went up to one of the Kirin and started talking. This will fail miserably. "Beautiful day, isn't it?" Really? That one? Everyone says that in awkward situations. If you haven't used that yet, you haven't been in enough awkward situations.
The Kirin stared at her and she grumbled in annoyance, so she went to another one. "Knock knock!" That won't work either Applejack. "Now you say "Who's there?" You think they'll do that? Heck no! You're gonna have to try harder than that if you want to succeed at this friendship mission. "Police!" What? How does she know about that? This world doesn't have police, it only has militaries. That's it. "Police who?" This is just cringe. "Police say somethin'?" OH MAN! That was good! Nice one, Hasbro. The Kirin just walked away and Applejack got on a log to announce something. "Uh oh. I feel a sneeze comin' on." Oh dear. Please don't do that. You're going to embarrass yourself by doing that. "Achoooo!" Since these Kirin can speak english, or excuse me, Ponish, they know that's not a real sneeze, so they aren't fooled by that. Fluttershy said "Gesundheit!" What's that supposed to mean? Is that a fancy term for God bless you? If you know what it means, tell me down in the reviews section after this chapter is posted. Applejack groaned in frustration and said "Ugh! Don't any of y'all talk?!" Nope. They all pointed towards the woods and Applejack saw it and had an idea. "Now we're gettin' somewhere!" Oh dear, what is it this time? Last time, you had an idea, you would get embarrassed and that wasn't too pleasant.
Fluttershy asked in fear "A dark spooky path that leads into unknown territory?" Maybe, but you have me to fight it. Applejack said "Tell ya what, sugarcube. You stay and see if you can get anything out of these here Kirin. I'll go try to find one that talks." You will be successful on that, but it won't solve your problem right away. Fluttershy said "Phew! Be careful!" I doubt she won't. She's got me after all. "And watch out for Niriks!" They're the same creature! Don't you ponies get it by now?! Ugh! I don't know why I even bother anymore. They all stared at her and I went after Applejack. She heard some rustling leaves and she screamed only to find out it was a squirrel. Bruh. She turned around and spotted another Kirin. Here we go. "Phew! Aaah! Oh! Have you seen a Kirin that talks?" She shook her head no and Applejack scratched the back of her head. "Any idea where I should look?" Hmm. How about right in front of you? The Kirin just stared and Applejack threw her hat down on the ground in frustration. "Oh, for the love of Celestia! Can't you just say somethin'?!" She will if you're patient. The Kirin laughed and said "Gotcha." I believe her name is Autumn Blaze if I am correct. "Sorry, sorry but that was too good." Was it?
"Oh, you don't know how much I miss jokes." I think I may have an idea. "HI-larity!" Isn't it supposed to be pronounced hilarious? "Am I pronouncing that right?" I don't think so. "Some words I haven't said in a wil… While… While." I think I can see that. I'm terrible at speaking english, but not to this extent. "Hi, I'm Autumn Blaze." I knew that was her name. "You've just arrived and perhaps you're tired or hungry, or reflective, and you want to sleep and eat and journal?" Dang, slow down a bit. You're going way too fast. "Which you should do! Of course. But first, oh! Oh! What joy to talk to another creature, it's been so long." I can only imagine what that feels like. "You must tell me everything about you, there's so much to say, so much to do!" I guess. "Oh, look at me, I'm going on and you haven't seen… I mean have you seen…?" Oh dear, you need some help with your english. "Of course, you haven't, you just so I will, yeah." What? I'm so lost right now. "Follow me." Uh, ok. Applejack said "That was somethin', all right." Heh, tell me about it. You can say that again. We followed Autumn up the mountain and it looked like a complete desert to me. We made it to the top and wow. It looks beautiful out here. There was a rainbow out in the distance and it shined quite well. Applejack said "Oh, wow. This is amazing." You could say that again.
Autumn said "Oh, you think so too?" I do, that's for sure. "The way the light shimmers off everything like… like it all suddenly woke up the moment you saw it, and you realize maybe the water and the mountains and the forest and the, yes the rainbow and the stars and the sky are all looking back at you thinking the same thing? That we are a part of the everything." Yep. I know that feeling. "That maybe there's just one thing, and we are all it!" Yeah, that mostly makes sense. Applejack said "I was gonna say "it's pretty," but yeah." I understood what she was saying. Autumn was smelling the roses and said "And this is just the first stop on a journey of amazing things to smell, tiptoe through." Ponies and Kirin don't have toes. The only creatures that I know of that have toes are humans. I can't think of any other creature. "I haven't been able to share all of this with anypony in forever, since they all took that vow of silence, so it's a lot for me to, you know, process. Proscess. Deal with." Uh ok. Applejack asked "Whoa there… Vow of silence?" Now this is why the Kirin don't speak. You'll see in a second. Autumn said "That's uh, that's why they asked me to leave." Ouch. That probably hurt.
Applejack said "I hope it's not a sore subject, but you mind explaining why y'all went quiet in the first place?" That's quite the story, so you better get your popcorn ready cause this is gonna be a long one. Autumn said "It's a long story." I bet it is. Applejack sighed and said "You rather not talk about it?" Most people wouldn't because of the pain they felt. Autumn said "No." Seems fair enough. Applejack said "I under-" before Autumn cut her off and singed "I'd rather siiiiiiiing!" Okay, here we go here. I have a feeling I'll be sitting here for a while. Be careful to watch out of the details. I'm not going to present it here because the author would probably get striked for that, so if you want to hear the song, just search it up on YouTube. You'll find it. Anyways, time to get out that popcorn and soda because we might have entertainment here on our hands right now.
One exposition later…
Well, that was an interesting story. They were afraid of talking again because of how destructive they can be. So, this is a lesson about anger. I think this is a lesson a lot of people can relate with. I can personally. They let fear take hold of them and allowed themselves to never speak again so that they could never be destructive again. It's completely understandable, but you can't do that. There are other ways to take out your anger. Usually, I excuse myself and release it by smashing rocks with my scepter in the Badlands or yeeting trash cans into space by kicking them with my back legs. Applejack said "I can't believe it!" I can, but when I first watched the episode seven or eight years ago, I couldn't believe it either. So, I guess it's understandable. "No pony should give up feelin' their feelins, just to keep from gettin' angry." Unfortunately, the Kirin refused to believe that. They're letting fear tell them that it's too big of a risk and it would be safer without their emotions. Sad really, but true. Autumn said "That's what I said!" Yeah, when you started talking again. "Y'know, when I started talking again." Right. Cause that wouldn't make any sense if you weren't. Applejack said "I bet this here's the problem that Fluttershy and I came to help y'all with!" You would be correct, but it's not going to be that easy.
Autumn asked "Really? Who's Fluttershy?" Oh dear. Here we go again. "Oh, did you name your shadow?" *facepalms* REALLY?! A SHADOW?! Come on man. Ugh! You're just as bad as the ponies I interact with sometimes. "Mine's called Silhouette Gloom of the Sundown Lands." Uh, okay then. That's oddly specific and I have no idea what that means. Moving on. Applejack said "Riiiight. Well, I'm thinking if we just go talk to the other Kirin, we can get 'em to welcome you back proper-like." Uhhh, okkkkk. "Maybe even convince 'em to take your cure!" Uh, what's that face you're making Autumn Blaze? That's raising eyebrows. Oh never mind. Autumn said "Oh, Yes, Yes of course!" Well, that seemed to change quickly. "Oh… Just one small thing." Wait for it. "The antidote from my anecdote?" Yes, what about it? "It's gone." What do you mean by that? Applejack said "There's no cure left?!" I find that hard to believe. I believe that flower that Fluttershy gave to the squirrels earlier might help us. Autumn said "I used the last of the Foal's Breath flowers to make it." That's what the flower was called. I think you may be wrong about that, Autumn. I think the squirrels just hid it well. "And I haven't seen them bloom since." I think the squirrels might have made it grow somewhere else that you cannot see it. It's entirely possible if you think about it. Applejack sighed and said "Well, this wouldn't be a Friendship Quest if it was easy!" You got that right. I could tell you, but I'm not going to since there would be no point in the lesson to learn anymore, so that's why. Sorry Applejack.
Applejack ran down and went back to the Kirin village. "I'm gonna start by gettin' your friends to welcome you back." Good luck with that. Autumn said her stick thing "You know? Between you and me, I'm not sure she's going to convince them." You would be right. Certain events need to happen first before anything can change. "Nope." Dang, that was blunt. "But… I hope she does." She will, but it's gonna take a little bit, so hang in there. Applejack made it back to the village and said "Fluttershy, guess what?!" Then, they both said at the same time "I figured out the friendship problem! Me too. Go ahead." Oh dear. They both laughed a bit and Applejack said "Bet that's a problem the Kirin never have." Hmm. You'd be surprised actually. Fluttershy said "No." and Applejack continued talking. She said "Anyhow, we gotta get 'em all talkin' again." Here it comes. Fluttershy said "Oh, no-no-no-no-no! We can't ever let that happen." Oh dear. Fluttershy, I think you may have taken that the wrong way. I'm just saying. Applejack said "I thought you said you figured out the friendship problem! Was somethin' lost in translation?" Perhaps. Fluttershy motioned for Applejack to follow her and she explained what happened.
She said "The Kirin are usually peaceful and kind. But when they get mad, they turn into Niriks, creatures made of fire and vengeance!" Told ya. Applejack said "That's exactly what Zachary said they were. The exact same creature. Hmm, he sure does know his history pretty darn well." I sure do. "Anyways, that seemed less scary when it was in a song." Of course it is. That's how it's always been. Fluttershy said "The last time they all argued, they got so angry, they accidentally destroyed their own village." Well, that's what happens with anger. Most of the time, that kind of anger is unrighteous anger and does not produce the righteousness that God desires. James 1:20 for those who want to look up this biblical reference. When you get angry like that, you become blind to the things around you and lash out in blind rage which can result in very disastrous things. "So the Kirin decided to make sure it would never happen again." It's good that they were sorry and didn't want to do that again, but you can't let your anger hold you back from having any sort of emotions. That's just messed up. Applejack said "But that's no reason to stop talkin'!" She does have a point. Fluttershy said "Yes it is!" How so exactly? "Fire is dangerous." True, but it can be put out quite quickly. "Especially in a forest like this!" This is a fair argument and fire can quickly spread into a forest fire which is very unsafe and quite destructive, so it makes sense. But still, you don't let that hold you back. It's just not worth it.
"Think of all the animals it could hurt!" That is another good point. Every year with these forest fires, animals' habitats get destroyed and they have to flee to find a new one. Some unfortunately, don't make it out and get killed in the process. Yes, it's happened before. They just don't really cover it in the news, that's all. Applejack retorted "Not if they don't turn into fire-breathin' Nirik in the first place!" Oh dear. Do you ponies not see the crowd you're drawing in? Fluttershy argued "And how can you be sure that won't happen?" That is a very good point. I can't really debate with that one. Applejack said "There's gotta be a better way than given' up all your feelings!" I can see the worry on the Kirin's faces. They're afraid they'll turn into demon-like creatures as well. I don't think it works like that though. Fluttershy said "Applejack! You're not listening!" Oh dear. Applejack said "Cause you're not talkin' any sense!" Eh, not really. What she's saying makes sense, she misunderstood what they meant. Basically, she got the wrong idea. The Kirin closed in on them and Fluttershy asked "Um, what are they doing?" I think I know what they're doing. The Kirin picked them up with their horns and carried them with their magic. "Maybe they got worried because we were arguing with each other." You would be correct. They thought if you kept fighting any longer, you would turn into a demon-like creature and destroy their home, which is not true, considering the fact, ponies can't really do that.
I mean alicorns can turn evil, but that's if they let problems fester. It doesn't happen as soon as they say hurtful things. Applejack said "Aw, shucks." Shouldn't have done that. Famous quote from Timon in Lion King. "We were just havin' a normal, civil disagreement." I don't think that's in their personal dictionary. Any kind of anger they see is considered destructive and they must exterminate it quickly before it escalates. "Honest!" They won't believe you. Fluttershy asked "Where are they taking us?" I think I know where. Applejack saw what it was and said "To the Stream of Silence. If we hit that water, we'll never be able to talk or feel anything ever again!" The Kirin were about to set them into the water, but then a demon-like voice said "Put them down!" Okay, that sounded creepy. They ran down to the water and a wall of fire surrounding them which scared the crap out of the Kirin because they were afraid of what would happen, but everything was still fine. Fluttershy whimpered in fear, while Applejack said "It's all right, I think I know this one." I believe so too. "And she's trying to help." There's only one that would do that. The demon creature came inside and changed back to Autumn Blaze. Told ya. She said "Well, yeah! Can't have them silence the only friend who'll speak to me." Fluttershy asked "She talks?" Of course she does. Applejack said "You have no idea." Seriously.
"Fluttershy, meet Autumn Blaze." Autumn extended her hoof out in greetings, but a part of the fire caught on her hoof, so she blew it out and tried again. Fluttershy said "Thank you for that, um, wall of fire." Even I consider that quite terrifying. "But I thought Niriks were dangerous when they're angry." They are, but there are ways to control it. "How did you know to control your temper?" Depends on the feeling. Instead of rage, it was friendship. Autumn said "I didn't. I guess anger's like other feelings." It can be. "It's not about having them, it's what you do with them." Very well stated, Autumn. Couldn't have said it better myself. Applejack said "And giving up happiness to keep away anger is no kinda life." Pretty much. Fluttershy said "I never thought of it that way." It would have helped if you did. "I can't imagine not being able to talk to my animal friends." I can, but the picture isn't pretty, so I think things are fine the way they are. Autumn went up to the other Kirin and said "Fern Flare, you used to love to laugh at everything." Now here comes the guilt trip. "And Rain Shine, you sung the most beautiful harmonies." That was the leader's name! Rain Shine! Finally figured it out after 5 billion years. "Don't you miss it?" I would if I were her. Applejack said "I know you're worried about fightin'. But friends can disagree without causing a ruckus." Yes, me and Twilight do it all the time, yet we still care for one another and it never breaks our relationship.
Fluttershy said "Every pony gets mad sometimes." That is very much true. As long as there is sin in the world, humans will always get mad. It's just part of life. "Even Applejack and I argue." I think they could tell. Applejack said "What?! When do we ever argue?!" Um, are you that dumb? You already fought three times today. Fluttershy said "Ahem. On the way here! And about the Kirin being silent! And right now!" That's all three times for ya. They both growled at one another, but then laughed it off which left me not knowing what to think. Applejack said "We don't always see eye-to-eye." You're never going to. "But we never let that get in the way of our friendship." Very true, Applejack. Well spoken. Fluttershy said "And if you're really angry, then take some time away to be a Nirik where it won't hurt anypony." That's how you control your anger. Not destroying things and throwing furniture and stuff like that, you go somewhere else and let it all out. Finally, one of the Kirin stepped forward and tried to communicate something. However, since they are silent, you can't tell what they're saying. Applejack said "I think they're tryin' to say somethin'." Yes, thanks for pointing out the obvious, Applejack. I think it's quite clear that's what they're trying to do.
Autumn said "Ok. Are you hungry?" I don't think so. "Oh, no! SomeKirin trapped in a well?" Uh, does that happen? I haven't heard of that one yet. "OK, Baby? Baby fish? Baby-Baby fish mouth? Something? Anything?" Oh dear. Here we go again. "Ah just write it down! This is making me furious!" Oh dear. That's creepy. "Would you excuse me? I'll be right back." She went behind a rock, and let out her anger and came back calm. "You were saying?" Uh, huh. Okay. Yeah. That makes sense. "Oh! You want the cure for the Stream of Silence!" Finally, she got it right. Fluttershy said "That's wonderful!" For the most part. "Uh, isn't it?" Yes, but there's something you don't know yet. Applejack said "Well, it would be. Except there aren't any flowers left to make the cure." Yeah, that one hurts, but I think you might have a solution though. Fluttershy asked "Are you sure?" I'm not. But Autumn is. She said "Oh, beyond sure. Believe me, I've had a lot of alone time lately." I bet. "I searched the entire forest seventy three and a half times." Good grief! That's almost like going through over 3 million books in just 8 hours. "Although I wonder if that second half could make a difference." She ran in the other direction and the rest of the Kirin followed her.
Fluttershy said "I wish she'd told us what kind of flowers she's looking for." Foal's Breath. Applejack said "They're called Foal's Breath." Almost sounds like Dragon's Breath to me. Hasbro, did you steal an idea from Minecraft? You better not deny it if you have. I don't mind if you did, but don't try and deny it. Fluttershy said "I never heard of that." Well, that's a shame. Suddenly, a squirrel appeared and started making chattering noises. It left Applejack heavily confused and she said "Uh Fluttershy? A little help?" Fluttershy looked at the squirrel and he did his chatter again. She said "He says he knows where to find Foal's Breath!" I'm sure he does. Applejack said "Well, what are we waitin' for?" Nothing. So, you better hightail it people. "Lead the way!" They went to the other side of the mountain and the squirrel presented the flower to them. Fluttershy gasped and said "That's what Foal's Breath looks like?" Yep. It sure is. Applejack said "Autumn Blaze never would have made it past the Peaks to search here." Yeah, because it's outside their territory. "I owe you an apology." Why's that? Fluttershy asked "Why?" You'll find out in a second. "Cause if your kindness hadn't made you stop to help the squirrels, we never would've found this here flower." Oh, that makes sense. Sometimes, what looks like the dumbest of things that are considered a "distraction" can lead to the solution.
I've had that experience before and it makes you look dumb after experiencing it, but it's a valuable lesson to learn. Fluttershy said "And if your honesty hadn't convinced the Kirin to talk, we wouldn't need to find it." Seems like a Yin and Yang situation here. One compliments the other and is dependent on the other. One cannot function without the other. Makes sense. Applejack said "Heh heh. Guess it's a good thing the map sent both of us." The map always makes the right choices. It has never been proven wrong. They reconciled and rushed back to the village with the flowers. Autumn Blaze saw them and said "You found them?! Where were they?!" Outside the peaks. "Tell me everything, and feel free to add complicated descriptions and comedic tangents." Please no. It's already bad enough when Twilight does it. I don't need replicas. One is good enough for me. "Oh right. First things first." She levitated the flowers out of Applejack's mouth and put them into the fountain. The Kirin came to drink it and they got their emotions back. Finally, Rain Shine came over to Autumn and said "Autumn Blaze, you have given us a gift: the realization that anger is within us. But it is our choice how we let it out." That's the key to controlling anger. It isn't easy, but it can be done. "We would very much like it if you came back to live with us. I can't say how much we've missed your beautiful voice." Well, that was an interesting complement. Autumn was happy and started singing again. Here we go.
After that was over, there was a beautiful display of rain and both Applejack and Fluttershy's cutie marks lit up signaling their completion of their friendship mission. Congratulations, you two. You have successfully completed another mission. The Tree of Harmony is very proud of you. Once they were done, they came back to Ponyville and I was watching from the balcony in the castle. I spread out my eagle wings and flew down to the station. I said "Welcome home, guys. How did your friendship mission go?" Applejack said "It went surprisingly well. There were some bumps in the road, but we were able to get the job done." I said "I see. Yeah, that happens with friendship missions. Anything you can take away from this?" Fluttershy said "Well, we all can get angry, but how we handle it is what matters. Also, even when you have disagreements, we never let it get in the way of our friendships and when you get super angry, go somewhere else when no one can be hurt." I said "Very well said. Heh. Too bad the map didn't call me on this mission because this would be a good lesson for me to learn." Fluttershy said "What do you mean?" I sighed and said "As you may know, my emotions are connected to my magic. In the past, I have gotten really angry before and have done things I regret to this day."
"How Kirins respond to anger is the exact same way I do, except I don't turn into a demon-like creature when I yell. Usually, I stomp my paw down and lightning and thunder go off in the background. Sadly, it's part of my human nature to lash out in anger sometimes. Most of the time, human anger is unrighteous and is considered very sinful. I know I shouldn't do it, but as long as sin remains in the universe, I will always continue to be angry at times. Everyone expresses their anger differently, but we should all know how to control it and not let it fester." Fluttershy said "I can only imagine what it feels like." I'm sure you do. "But I believe that you are stronger than anger." She does have a point. Applejack said "Yeah. All of us still care about ya and Twilight cares about you the most." I said "You are right. No matter how bent I get in anger, I at least have six friends that can pull me back into the light." The both of them gave me a hug and then took off. I spread out my eagle wings and took off back to the castle. I landed on the balcony once again and Twilight was standing right there. I said "What?" Twilight said "It's nice talking to the others and them giving you encouragement besides me." I said "Did you really hear all of that?" Twilight said "Of course silly. I'm the Princess of Friendship, remember? It's my duty to make sure everyone belongs and they maintain good friendships."
I said "You stole that line out of my playbook." Twilight said "I might have, but that doesn't matter. The point is it's great to have others than those that you consider your family to give you encouragement. It's definitely a nice change of things." I said "Of course it is because you shake your head every time I say that I'm a burden to you. Even though I still think that way." Twilight said "Zach, how many times do I have to tell you? You're not a burden to me! Why do you still think that?" I sighed and said "Because I believe that I have problems that aren't anyone else's but my own. I believe that I need to solve it on my own. It's not anybody's problem." Twilight said "Don't you get it? It's my problem as well." How so? "Because I care about you and I don't want you to suffer. Please, let me help you. You don't have to suffer alone." I was about to say no, but Twilight gave me a look that made me attracted to her in the first place. I always get lost in those beautiful violet orbs. No matter what, she always wants to help me with my problems. It only makes me feel more guilty because she's doing this when she doesn't have to. "Well, I want to. You matter to me and no one should ever have to face problems on their own regardless how small they are." She's got a really good point. She reminds me of my parents, because they said the exact same thing when I was young.
They said humans were never meant to do things on their own from their own strength but rely on God to give us strength and help us face our problems. I know not everyone wants to hear that, but it is the truth. My cold stone heart refuses to believe it, but deep down in my conscious, I know that is true. I sighed and said "Alright. If you so desire to actually want to face MY own problems, then I won't stop you from doing it." Twilight said "Whatever your problem is will also be mine as well." She put her hoof on my heart and stroked my chest. "It's all part of me helping you break that stone and healing your heart." If you say so. "Besides, you'll always be mine. So everything will be fine." Maybe she's right. I shouldn't have this stone cold heart remaining here, but all of those years of burdens and pains keep me from setting it free. Will it happen one day? Maybe so. I'm not sure. I would love to set it free, but I'm not sure Hannah even knows of my existence anymore. I could always go back home to try and make amends, but I don't know where she lives nowadays. She never really said where she wanted to live when she grew up, but I'm sure life is treating her well wherever she may be. Twilight went back towards the inside and she said "You coming? It's quite late." I said "Yeah, just give me a sec." She said "Okay, but make it quick." I nodded and she went inside. I looked up at the sky and sighed. Will my heart ever have the room to forgive her? I don't know. I said to the stars "I don't know where you are now Hannah, but I hope life as an adult treats you well." I put my head down and headed back inside. I hope I can forgive her one day.
AN: Another chapter comes to a close! In case you are confused, Hannah was the name of the person that betrayed Zachary all those years ago when he was a teenager. It wasn't pleasant and his heart is very bitter and is filled with hatred for her. Maybe, someday, he can find room in his heart to forgive her. But for now, he's got bigger issues to deal with. Anyways, I got the Super Bowl matchup that I wanted! Heading into conference championship weekend, I wanted a Kansas City Chiefs vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Super Bowl matchup and I got it. I can't wait for it to happen. History will be made and it's already been made even before it started playing. I want to congratulate Tampa Bay for becoming the first team ever to play in their home stadium in the Super Bowl. Congrats on them. Also, a good move by the NFL who gave 7,500 vaccinated healthcare workers from the Tampa Bay area to get free tickets to the Super Bowl. They are the real MVP this year. They worked constant hours and worked their butts off during this pandemic, so I want to say thank you to them. If you or anyone you know is a healthcare worker, thank you very much for helping us get through 2020 and trying to get a cure out as soon as possible. We wouldn't have made it this far without you guys, so thank you for your service to this country. Also, if you see healthcare workers around, make sure you thank them for their continued work throughout the pandemic. I will tell you they will greatly appreciate it because they really haven't gotten a lot of credit and they really should for all they have done. Anyways, I know that was a really long rant, but I wanted to get that out there so people know I care about our country's healthcare workers and the work they have done throughout 2020 and this year as well. So, hope you guys enjoyed the chapter!
Next Chapter: Family revealed! One day, a random dragon crashes into Ponyville and the Mane Six patch him up before he can leave. However, he claims to be Spike's father and gives a story why he was gone for so many years and how Spike had no idea about his parents' origins. But Zachary can sniff out the lie that this dragon is telling and observes very carefully. He believes Spike is being taken advantage of by his "father," and that real parents would never do that. Will Spike realize the truth, or will he find out when it is too late?
Until then, my fellow readers
