Russell whistled cheerfully as he walked over to his young rider. Brian was clearly exhausted; both from the competitions and from his injuries, but the horde of reporters that surrounded him didn't seem to notice. Frowning he decided to end this.

If it wasn't for the bench, Brian would have fallen over long ago from the fatigue. Still the reporters were relentless. All were too eager to be the "first" to get an interview with the famous Brian Marks.

"Brian Marks you are truly a remarkable young man…"

"How did you know Bruiser Fists would attempt such a trick?"

"Do you plan to compete in the future?"

"So is it true all of this came about just to win a horse?"

To their frustration, Brian Marks refused to verbally answer and stared back at them with weary eyes. Frowning they opened their mouths to try again, only to be pushed aside by Russell Adams. The older man ignored their cries of protest and held up a microphone of his own at the worn-out rider.

"So Brian…now that you've won the FCRA jumping and the racing competitions here what do you plan to do next?" he winked. Immediately Brian looked more alert and he fought back his laughter.

Rainbow Brite and the color kids had already departed for home, but insisted on him coming over later that day. He couldn't tell the eager reporters that he was going to Rainbowland…even though he was sorely tempted to.

"Actually I'm going to celebrate with my friends." Brian smiled as he sat up straighter. "It's been a long road and not one I'll forget anytime soon." He laughed slightly before continuing. Sure there were the bad parts….the broken arm, being beat up and the dirty tricks…but as they say…the good outweighs the bad. And I've had a lot of good times on this road." Brian grinned before he got up, wobbling a bit. Russell supported the young boy as they left for the stable, both disregarding the reporters that attempted to follow.

It wasn't until Brian had changed out of the nightmarish outfit and into his regular clothes that he remembered something. Grinning he turned to Russell. "You took it away from her didn't you?" Russell smirked as he held up the microphone. The sides of the mike now had a few deep grooves in it. It was obvious the blonde reporter had not given up without a fight. "Guilty." He said simply. Brian shook his head as he laughed.

True to his word, Brian had arrived in Rainbowland a few hours later. Earth Dancer had immediately run up to his side. He smiled at the brown and white horse proudly. It was official. Earth Dancer was his. And in a place where he knew she would truly be happy. He smiled again and gazed over towards the color castle. His mouth had dropped open and he stared in shock at the scene before him.

CONGRATULATIONS BRIAN BROWN AND EARTH DANCER! A large banner proclaimed. Tied to the poles that held it aloft were balloons of every color. Long picnic tables had been set up all over the place each piled high with food and each filled with sprites. The main table however was empty.

Rainbow Brite and the color kids had abandoned it and ran over to him. Brian smiled back at them weakly. "Don't you think I've had enough surprises today?" His friends laughed.

"After what you've been through, I think you can handle it." Rainbow winked causing more laughter. Gently she took his hand and led him back to the table.

Thanks to my readers! Kayla the Hedgehog, Elda Aranel, Sakura Avalon, Casey, Crystal Light, Major Ursa, C9, OrangieGirl2, shane75, Beautiful Rainbow, Spectral Steel, anda2324, southern babe1, and to all those who have read or will eventually read this story. :)

And to those who wonder if this is the end….this is only the beginning. :)

Imagi