The Misadventures of Ponified Friends

Chapter 17: Extreme Frenemies (Fall Weather Friends)


(Blast's POV)

Sometimes I wish that I could just shut my mouth about telling someone, well, something. For example, like the time I told Hassan about Lemuel's video game console.

It only had been a week passed, and these two couldn't stop one-upping each other at whatever it was they were playing. I'm concerned about them slacking off on their work and responsibilities. They weren't even in this level of competitiveness at each other about video games back then. Probably the effect of being away from these things for a year?

"Dude, you are so bad!" Speedy said to Silver, who was groaning at the JoyBoy.

"I can't understand how you beat this boss. It would've been a cakewalk with fingers." Silver complained as he restarted the game.

"Just admit it, I'm better than you, bro."

"Oh, shut up. You're only good cause you already finished it. Just give me a week, and I'll wipe the high-score with my name on it."

Speedy chuckled. "Oh yeah?"

"Uh, yeah!" Silver replied.

I rolled my eyes at their banter and trash-talking. It made me realize why the heck I was studying with the two of them together in the same room.

Speedy watched Silver play the game, and based on his expression, he was enjoying every second of it. I didn't have to turn around to see the agitated face of frustration that Hassan was making. He's a fantastic athlete and a remarkable high schooler, but when it comes to video games? He was always dead last.

That was one of the few things that Lemuel excels at, apparently, and he was basking all the glory of victory whenever he could.

The JoyBoy created a beeping sound of defeat, and Silver growled. "This is stupid!"

"Don't hate the game, hate your lousy gamer skills," Speedy said.

"Fine, fine. You win." replied Silver, shutting the JoyBoy down. "But this doesn't mean that you're better than me!"

Speedy chuckled. "Oh yeah?"

"Uh, YEAH!"

I slammed my hooves on the table. I couldn't take the noise anymore. "Okay, why don't the two of you go outside and stop this immaturity. You two are ADULTS, for Pete's sake."

"HE started it!" They both pointed at each other.

"What's with all that racket up there?!" Spike called downstairs.

"Nothing, Spike! Somebody up here just couldn't stand the fact that I'm better than him!" Speedy yelled back, prompting Silver to build his rage even quicker.

With his teeth grinding in anger, Hassan attempted to jump Lemuel for a tackle. "Why, you little-!"

"Oh? You wanna go, tough guy?!" Lemuel taunted, posing in a boxing stance.

Before they could collide, I used my magic to stop their movements. I sighed as I massaged my temple slowly. "You two are literally giving me a headache right now."

I stood up and eyed the calendar hanging on the back of our door. I levitated it towards me and looked for a specific date. "Alright, you guys REALLY want to know who's better?" I encircled the box that contained the day I was looking for and showed it to them. "Tomorrow, there's this event called 'The Running of the Leaves.' I'm pretty sure you two are aware of this?"

They nodded.

"Now, I want you guys to sign in and take part in the race so we can finally see who's better. But I want you two to promise me that until then, no fighting."

They glared at each other momentarily before nodding at my request. I gradually powered down so they could move. "So, do we have a deal?"

Silver sneered, a puff of smoke coming out of his snout. "Fine with me…"

"I guess there's no way for me to refuse." Speedy scorned. "Beating you in that race will be easy!"

"Oh, I assure you that it won't," I said.

He turned. "Say what?"

"The purpose of the Running of the Leaves is to help bring the Autumn leaves down quicker for the changing season. All the participants will be racing on hoof." I explained to him.

He looked at me, wearing a shocked expression. "What? Are you serious?!"

"Uh, it's in the name, dude. Why?" Silver asked him. I tried to hide the amused smirk my mouth was forming.

"Oh, uh, cough! it's nothing-!" Speedy cleared his throat. "It's nothing. You know it's just that, uh, races are my…thing since I became a pony so… uh, you better be afraid… man."

"… Huh, it looks like I do need to worry." Silver was pleased with Speedy's nervous dawdling. "I'm off to Sweet Apple Acres. See you guys later."

He walked towards the door, and his mood enlightened as he left.

Speedy did a quick one-eighty, facing me. "On hoof?! Cut me some slack!"

"Oh, you're competing against him, so I suggest you practice while there's still time. I believe someone said that he's better?"

"You're doing this on purpose to teach me a lesson, aren't you?"

"Well, that's for you to decide," I said.

He groaned, a dark cloud over his head gloomily. "I forgot how cruel you were to me…" He shook his head. "No matter! It's not like he can beat me in this body. We Pegasi are fast, and I bet he's way heavier as a horse! Yeah!"

There's the confidence.

"Alright! I'm fired up! Raaaagh!" He did a loud war cry. Sort of.

The beeping sound of his alarm clock stopped his yelling. He grabbed the device. "Oh shoot, duty calls." He proceeded to jump over the window as he flew away casually. I sighed as I finally got some quiet alone time.

"HEY, STAR BLAST!"

I threw the book that I was reading up in the air at the sudden bellow of my name, crying out in shock. I almost fumbled down my chair, too, while I flailed my arms like an idiot to make things worse.

What came next was the laughter of a certain blue Pegasus. "You should see the look on your face!"

"Don't scare me like that, Rainbow!" I put a hoof on my throbbing chest.

"Wait, pffftt! Just give me a second!" She continued to have a laughing fit, so severe that she held onto her stomach. Was my reaction that funny? "Wooh! That was priceless."

"Glad to make your day somehow," I said bitterly. "What do you want?"

"You doin' anything today?" she asked.

"I was reading a book until you scared the daylights out of me. Why?"


"You're doing what?"

"An Iron Pony competition." Applejack answered.

Before I knew it, I found myself in Sweet Apple Acres, where many obstacle courses were set up across the field. How big is this competition? When did they plan this?

"and you want me… to be your referee?" I continued to ask.

"Eeyup. Sorry if it was a bit sudden." Yes, it was, Applejack.

I couldn't bring myself to decline, though. "No, no, It's fine." I turned to my counterpart. "How'd you get dragged into this?"

"I was just minding my own business. Still, this does look fun, so I accepted." Twilight replied.

"Just one question, though." I rose. "What's your goal here?"

"To see which one of us is-" Applejack was about to answer.

"The most athletic pony ever!" Rainbow finished. "and SOMEPONY'S gotta record my awesomeness for the history books, and you and Twilight fit the bill."

"Okay, then why the huge set-up?" I asked. There were a couple of huge sideline seats that could hold a hundred spectators, but the only ones in the field were just us.

Applejack smiled as she looked over. "This here is the site of the rodeo we'd be hosting for next week. I just borrowed it for today."

"Hmm… Well, when do we start?"

As I finished my question, a laced whistle flew towards me. I caught the object with my magic and looked at Rainbow Dash, who was stretching for the event.

"Just say the word, chief." she said.

"Alright… I'll give you two ten minutes to prepare then," I said.

"You got it. Gotta get loose as well." Said Applejack, going to a vacant space to prepare.

Refereeing should be a breeze. Also, if this thing helps me take my mind off Speedy and Silver, then why not? Besides, it's not like Applejack and Rainbow Dash had the same competitive relationship.

"I have a bad feeling about this."


"Hello, every pony, and welcome to the first annual Iron Pony competition!" Spike announced enthusiastically, holding a twig as if it was a microphone. Word has spread around town about Applejack and Rainbow's contest, and this little dragon was the first to come.

"Uh, Spike, who are you talking to?" Twilight asked the little dragon perched on her back.

"Um… them!" Spike pointed to Pinkie, Fluttershy and Rarity coming their way to watch. Haven't seen the two so far. I guess they were still too busy at work.

I checked the time, and the ten minutes were up. I blew the whistle, catching everyone's attention. "Time's up, you two!"

"Alright! Let the games begin!" Spike cheered, prompting the others to cheer as well.

Soon, Applejack and Rainbow Dash stood at the center of the field. I walked to them to lay down the rules.

"Okay, our first obstacle will be the barrel weave. Whoever finishes the fastest wins and time violations will be added if you touch a barrel. Are we clear?" I explained.

Applejack gets to start first, which was decided through a coin flip. She placed herself in the starting line.

"Ready. Set. Go!" Twilight exclaimed.

I blew the whistle, and then Applejack took off, zigzagging across the barrels as fast as her hooves can take her. As she approached the end of the obstacle, she lightly bumped one of the barrels. I quickly took note of it, and it looked like she realizes it too as she cursed, crossing the finish line.

"Time?" I asked Twilight.

She checked the watch. "Seventeen seconds."

"You're kiddin'? That's better than my record in last year's rodeo," said Applejack.

"Yeah, but you'll get a five-second penalty for nudging a barrel, so your official time is twenty-two seconds," I informed, not to ruin her celebration or anything.

"Akh! Nuts and shrews!" She remarked, a bit upset at the outcome. "Still, that's not too shabby."

Rainbow Dash, who was right beside her, started to sweat nervously. She seem a bit intimidated at AJ's performance.

The farm pony noticed her discomfort. "Hey, don't be nervous. Remember, it's all in good fun. Now get on up there." she nudged RD playfully as the Pegasus flew to the starting line slowly.

Rainbow took a stance, ready to start.

"Ready. Set. Go!"

A strong gust of wind almost threw us off balance. Rainbow was weaving through the barrels like it was natural to her. She maneuvered the obstacle so fast that she was trailing a rainbow streak behind her. It only felt like a moment as she crossed the finish line.

"Woo-wee! That's some fancy hoof work there, Rainbow." Applejack commented.

"Thanks, but I couldn't have been as fast as you." Rainbow Dash replied, still catching her breath.

"What was the time on that, Spike?" I asked.

"18 seconds!" the dragon exclaimed. I swore it was like only five seconds. Maybe that was just me.

"18 seconds? Rainbow, are you sure you're not secretly a rodeo pony?" AJ teasingly asked.

"Rainbow Dash wins the barrel weave!" Twilight announced. Fluttershy flew towards the scoreboard and tallied the point for Rainbow Dash.

"I can't believe I won!" Rainbow gushed while she was looking at the scores.

Applejack pulled her back down on the ground. "Yeah, well, don't go getting used to it." It looks like she had her competitive flare back.

The next event was the Strongman or the High Striker, a staple in carnival games. I already knew that Applejack was going to win this one since she has overwhelming kicking power. Then again, I could be wrong.

As we prepared, the field was slowly getting more crowded with the townsfolk.

Rainbow Dash got in position, and she bucked the target that would send the puck way up to hit the bell. The crowd cheered for Rainbow, throwing flowers into the air at her triumph (and horseshoes because why not?).

"Mighty respectable," Applejack began, resting at a nearby tree. She got up as Rainbow made way. "but let me show you how it's really done."

She didn't even seize momentum as she kicked the target, the puck shooting up rapidly with force. The kick was so brutal it broke the strongman's lever, the bell flying way, waaaaay up in the air.

See? Applejack had this one before it even began.

Rainbow had to sit down and process the whole thing, her mouth wide open as she stared into the sky.

Applejack had a proud face when she went back. "Years of apple buckin'." She mentioned quickly before lightly kicking the apple tree Rainbow was under in, a few apples dropping down on blue Pegasus' head.

Fluttershy happily added a point on the scoreboard in Applejack's favor, and then we moved to the next site.

"What are they going to do next?" Twilight asked me.

"Hmm… a Bronco Buck." I checked. "Then we need someone small enough to act like a cowboy riding the two."


"…Why me?"

I smiled apologetically. "Sorry, Spike. You're the only one around that's perfect for the job. Don't worry, just sit tight and try not to hurt yourself."

"-and go!" Twilight declared without so much as a warning. This caught Spike off-guard as AJ began to shake him off. Spike had a firm grip on Applejack's tail as he exclaimed every time he bounced off then return to the farm pony's back like a yo-yo.

After a few more tries, Applejack had successfully got Spike off her. Spike was flung to a haystack.

"Ouch…" groaned Spike.

Rainbow suddenly emerged under him. She couldn't wait to start. "Ready for another pony ride?"

Rainbow then moved her body rapidly enough to send Spike flying higher and farther.

"Rainbow Dash wins the bronco-buck!" Twilight announced.

I went over to the scoreboard to check on Spike while the crowd was cheering Rainbow's win. Fluttershy was looking at him in worry.

"Spike! You okay there, tough guy?" I asked him.

The little dragon groaned. "I think the loser here is me."

"Come on, champ. Just a few more, and you can go home. I promise."

The field quickly became populated by the Ponyville townsfolk who were cheering their lungs out for Applejack and Rainbow Dash as they competed in a rope tying competition.

As expected, Applejack worked with her lasso with ease as she did a few impressive tricks as Rainbow struggled at swinging hers.

Spike stood in the middle of the cage, his face written with annoyance. I remind myself to give him extra gemstone treats when we get back home.

Applejack didn't waste time, and she threw her lasso at Spike. She tied him up cleanly and without fail. Spike lay on his back, his limbs caught in a knot.

"How'd I get roped into these things?" complained Spike. His voice was getting drowned by the cheers of the ponies. They began tossing roses at Applejack.

Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash managed to tie herself up in a tree branch.

"Does this count?" she asked me.

"Unfortunately, no," I said. The birds perched in the scoreboard shook their heads in agreement as Fluttershy updated the scores.

After that, the two competitive mares exchanged victories as the Iron Pony competition eventually came at the decisive stage, with the scores all tied at five points apiece.

"Alright, you two. This is the final event." Twilight announced. "Give it all you've got!"

Spike, who was now less cranky, signaled the start of the Tug of War.

It started intense, with neither of the two budging. As it progressed, Applejack slowly pulled the momentum towards her favor with natural strength and stamina. Rainbow almost fell at the pool of mud below. She was practically standing at the tip of her hooves, and she looked desperate.

"Looks like the workhorse might come out ahead of this one!" Spike commented.

With a pull, Applejack had managed to pull Rainbow over the pool. Then, Rainbow spread her wings and flew above the mud, and Applejack was dangling on the rope in her mouth.

Applejack was saying something to Rainbow Dash, but the words coming out were inaudible.

"Huh? I can't understand you with that rope in your mouth." Rainbow said.

As a response, Applejack spat out the rope, "I said-!" and she realized what she just did way too late. "Uh oh."

The field erupted with cheers. Rainbow Dash added the points herself to celebrate her victory.

"Woohoo! I win by a landslide!" Rainbow hailed. She went to Applejack, "Or in your case, a mudslide."

She soared above the sky and flexed in victory, "I am the Iron Pony!"

"Only because you cheated!" Applejack accused.

"What!?" Rainbow took offense as she flew to meet AJ face to face.

"You used your wing power to help you win over half of those contests!"

"Sounds like sour apples to me."

"Are you sayin' you didn't use your wings?"

"Well… no. But you never said I couldn't use my wings."

"I didn't think I needed to tell you to play fair."

I was having a strange sense of déjà vu here…

"I still would have won even without my wings!" Rainbow said.

"Oh yeah? Prove it!" AJ challenged.

"Gladly! How?"

"Tomorrow's the annual Running of the Leaves," Applejack suggested. "I challenge you to a race in it."

… Oh, the coincidence.

Rainbow scoffed, "That's it? Easy-schmeezy."

"Hold on!" Applejack pulled Rainbow back. "There is one condition. The point is to run, so no wings allowed."

"No wings?" Rainbow pushed Applejack off her. "No problem."

Applejack and Rainbow Dash spat on their hooves, and they shook hooves.

"Well, tomorrow's going to be interesting," I said.

"Spike told me that Speedy and Silver are going to have a race of their own." Twilight brought up. "What made them do that?"

"Oh, I'm the one who's making them compete in the race. Just so that they could shut up about who's the best."

"They're fighting about that again?" Even Twilight's getting tired at their pointless fights.

Everyone went back to town as the competition ended. Our group had a little chat about today's events and went our separate ways.

It was dinner time inside the Golden Oaks Library. Silver and Spike helped and cooked a fantastic Tofu stir fry. While Twilight was reading one of her books and Spike and I enjoyed the food, Silver and Speedy had a not-so-subtle stare-down contest.

Speedy glared at Silver as he ate his stir fry. Silver answers with a deadpan stare. I continued to watch them both.

"So uh… Where have you two been today?" I asked, breaking the tension.

"Busy at work," Speedy answered quickly before he paused from eating to drink his water. He was glaring at Silver still.

"Me too. I was at the other far side of Sweet Apple Acres. So, Applejack and Rainbow Dash had an Iron Man- I mean, Pony competition?" Silver said.

"Yeah, and it didn't end well." Spiked answered.

"You know how competitive Rainbow Dash can get," I said.

"I heard that she used her wings to win some of the events." Silver stated. "Why didn't you deduct a point or disqualify her?"

"Well… the rules didn't say that wings aren't allowed." Twilight joined in the conversation.

"I get that, but it wasn't a fair game at all."

Speedy snickered. "Seriously? What about Applejack? Most of the events were all about athleticism and cowboy stuff. Rainbow was clearly at a disadvantage. I'd say it's fair game."

"Oh, like you watched the competition? Also, those two are just as tough as the other. Maybe Rainbow Dash was just a sore loser that the only way for her to win was to cheat!"

"Who started crying when she keeps losing and choked at the end? Oh right! It was Applejack!"

Twilight, Spike, and I exchanged looks as the two continued to shout at each other.

"I can't wait to leave your butt in the dust in the race tomorrow!" Silver exclaimed.

"I'll make sure that I'm going to win tomorrow, and I'll make sure that you won't ever forget it, you hoof-faced Donkey Kong!"

"Try me, you Milhouse-looking twig!"

"That doesn't even make any sense!"

"That's because you didn't get the reference!"

"I DID get the reference! I just don't see the resemblance!"

They both stood up from the table. Their nostrils were literally flaring. Speedy zoomed to the door and flew outside of the library. Silver looked at the door, his gaze intense.

"You three done with dinner?" He asked, his voice coming off as intimidating.

Twilight and Spike nodded vigorously as they pushed their plates away.

"I'll go clean the dishes." He picked up our plates, and he went towards the kitchen.

"That was… intense," Spike said once Silver was out of earshot.

"Do their fights go to that extent often?" Twilight asked me.

I sighed as I drooped in my chair. I rested my head on the table. "It's something that I got used to."

"If I were you, I wouldn't get used to it," Twilight said.

"I don't even know what's worse," I said. I noticed something about her book. "Why are you reading about races and marathons?"

"Oh, I'm planning to join the race. Just for the experience." She said with a smile. "What about you? It could be fun."

I shrugged. "Depends if I have something to do tomorrow."

A moment of silence took over.

"Uhm, can I ask something?" Spike raised his hand.

"Sure," I said.

"What's a Milhouse?"


Morning came around, and everypony was getting ready for Running of the Leaves. Both Silver and Speedy's whereabouts were unknown. I guess that Hassan went to Sweet Apple Acres as usual, but Lem didn't come back since their fight last night. I hoped that he was alright.

"Twilight, hurry up! We're gonna be late for the race!" Spike said, who paused to watch a butterfly pass by.

"Why are you so excited about the race? It's only for ponies." Twilight said.

"Yeah, but I'm hoping to be the announcer again! Check this out," Spike stood from Twilight's back and brought out a twig that acts as the microphone again. "Fillies and Gentlecolts! Welcome to-"

"-the annual Running of the Leaves!" Pinkie Pie, from out of nowhere, began to announce. "This is Pinkie Pie! Your official eye-in-the-sky announcer!"

Spike threw his twig in frustration as a result.

"Sorry, Spike. I think the job's already taken." I told the dragon.

"As everypony knows, the Running is a very important tradition, for without it, the autumn leaves of Equestria would never fall." Pinkie Pie explained from above. You know how weather works in this world. "So get ready, ponies. The Running of the Leaves will begin in five minutes!"

The ponies started to take their place in the starting line. After Twilight and I signed up, we took our positions as well. I looked around to find two particular idiots. Weirdly enough, there was no sign of Hassan and Lem yet. Did they back out? Or are they unaware when exactly it was going to start?

Anyway, I shook off the thought. They can handle themselves.

Twilight was reading the notes about racing and brought it here. It wasn't exactly necessary to review about races, but that's just how she is.

"I'm actually looking forward to this," Twilight commented out of the blue. "What are you expecting in the race?"

"Well… If those two arrive and combine that with Applejack and Rainbow Dash's own business… Chaos, I guess?"

"Speaking of, there's Rainbow and AJ." Twilight pointed to the other side of the line. "Should we move there?"

"Might as well."

We went to the spot right next to them. Rainbow Dash's wings were tied up, a work of Applejack's, I suppose.

As we readied to our positions too, the two turned to us and looked surprised,

"Twilight and Star Blast? What in tarnation' are you two doin' up here? Applejack questioned.

"We're racing!" Twilight responded.

Rainbow Dash laughed. "Good one, Twilight!"

"I'm not joking!"

"What? You aren't athletes." Rainbow said. "You two are, well, you're eggheads!"

"I am not an egghead! I'm well-read." Twilight replied positively. Rainbow kept teasing us, though.

"But have you two ever ran in a race?" Applejack questioned while keeping herself from laughing.

"Well… no, but I do know a lot about running!" Twilight answered cheerfully.

"And you've known this from…?"

"Books! We've read several on the subject."

With that, Rainbow could not suppress her laughter. "What d'ya read? The Eggheads Guide to Running? Diddya stretch out your eye muscles to warm up?"

Twilight just rolled her eyes and didn't take Rainbow seriously from there as she kept teasing us.

"I'll have you know that I've joined marathons before," I answered as well. I was forced into those by mostly Lemuel, though, "so I think I'll fair well."

"Oh, I can see you running in the race, Star Blast, but Twilight?" Rainbow laughed even harder.

"Scoff if you must, Rainbow, but the Running of the Leaves is a Ponyville tradition. Since I'm here to learn, I've decided I should experience it myself." Twilight replied.

"Well, I think that's just dandy, Twilight. Good luck." Applejack said, snickering right after.

"Yeah, see you at the finish line… tomorrow." Rainbow chuckled at her joke.

Twilight was annoyed at this point.

"Not such a great idea to move here, huh?" I said. She sighed annoyingly. "Don't worry. I bet you'll have a lot of fun."

She smiled. "Thanks, Blast."

"Alright, ponies! Are you ready?!" Pinkie Pie announced with her megaphone. Spike was with her in the hot air balloon.

"Get set," Spike added.

I stretched my hooves as everyone got into position. Drums were rolling as we wait for the signal. I took one good look around, and neither Silver nor Speedy was here. Where the heck were those two?

I was interrupted with the loud rings of a bell, and everypony took off.

"And they're off! Welcome to the official coverage of the Running of the Leaves!" Pinkie began commentating. "You know, Spike, despite its name, the leaves don't do any of the actual running. No, that's left to my little ponies."

"Uh, why yes -uh, Pinkie! It's the running of the ponies is what causes the leaves to fall." Spike provided some commentary of his own. He actually got to do it.

"Ugh, those lazy, lazy leaves."

True, the autumn leaves began to fall rapidly as the race proceeded. Piles and piles of dried leaves were on the ground as we go on.

"This year, the run will be more than the weather." Pinkie stated. "It's about the race to the finish and the two runners who want to win it: Applejack and Rainbow Dash."

"You know, Pinkie, these two have a bit of a grudge match they're trying to settle. Trying to prove who's the most athletic." Spike said.

"Yes, and grudge rhymes with fudge."

"Yes, it-… does. What?" Spike asked in confusion.

"And I like fudge, but if I eat too much fudge, I get a pudge and I can't budge."

Even I had to look at Pinkie from below at her sudden randomness.

"So… no fudge?" Spike asked.

"Oh, no thanks. I had a big breakfast. Let's check in with our two competitive ponies: Applejack and Rainbow Dash!"

I shook my head and focused on the race instead. That's enough Pinkie Pie weirdness for today.

We've been running for a while now, and I'm starting to feel tired. I slowed down and tried to catch my breath. Every pony dashed forward as I finally stopped and sat down. Pinkie Pie provided clear commentary about AJ and Rainbow's race from the front until it got random again.

"Wow, I can't believe I'm taking part in a race!" Twilight said beside me, her voice full of excitement. "Look! Doesn't the site look beautiful?"

"It sure is," I answered in between breaths. "Amazing, I actually ran for five minutes straight before getting tired."

"Don't push yourself too hard, Blast." She said. "Now come on, don't wanna get left behind."

I agreed as I nodded. This time though, I followed Twilight's pace, which was more of a jog. Then, we started to build up speed as we saw the back end of the racers group.

Just then, I saw Applejack trip on a rock as the racers left her behind. We went towards her.

"I don't believe it!" AJ exclaimed in disbelief.

"I know! It's beautiful, isn't it?" Twilight asked, oblivious to the situation.

"Not the scenery, Twilight! Rainbow Dash just tripped me!"

"I have to disagree, Applejack," I said.

"She did so!"

"She did not," I argued calmly. "I know that you and Rainbow are competitive, but you don't have to be reckless. Even if it's a race, you have to be careful."

I pointed to the rock. "Look, you didn't even realize that you tripped and immediately blamed Rainbow Dash."

"What?" Applejack said. "Oh hayseed, now I got a lot of ground to make up to catch Rainbow." She then left quickly and caught up with the other ponies in mere seconds.

"Be careful!" Twilight shouted at her. She gestured for me to follow.

We were going at a very slow pace. I noticed that Twilight was just sightseeing as I looked back at the starting point. Those two didn't show up at the race at all. I'd give them a piece of my mind once this is over.

"Star Blast? What's wrong?" Twilight's voice cut me off from thinking.

"Looking for Silver and Speedy."

"Now that I noticed, where are they? I thought they were going to have a race too?"

"Heck, if I know." I shrugged.

"I don't believe it!" Spike exclaimed. "After a huge setback, Applejack is back in front of the pack!"

"That was quick," Twilight remarked.

"She's the head of the pack, alright! The pick of the litter! The cat's pajamas!" Pinkie then frowned then wondered. "Oh wait… why would Applejack take some poor kitties PJ's? That's not very sporty of her."

"…Ooookay. Let's get back to the race."

We could see Applejack and Rainbow Dash at the front, neck and neck. Twilight and I managed to cut the gap between us and the other racers.

Then, Rainbow Dash happened to trip on a tree stump, like how Applejack tripped from a rock earlier. She flopped on the ground as the racers continued to run. Rainbow was then covered with the leaves that fell from the trees around us.

"I don't believe it!" Rainbow said, like AJ's tone a while back. "Applejack tripped me!"

"Don't you ponies ever look where you're going? You tripped on a stump. See?" Twilight told her.

"Oh, I see. A big cheater is what I see." Rainbow declared convincingly.

"Applejack would never cheat. You know that." I said. "It was an accident. That's all."

"Suuure it was."

Twilight and I glared at her.

"I mean… yeah, I'm sure it was." She said in a nicer voice.

"Remember Rainbow. It's just a game." Twilight said before she trotted.

I was about to follow her before I heard Rainbow whispering to herself. "Yes, but the rules have changed, and two can play at that game…" she turned around and was shocked to see me standing in front of her. "Uh… you didn't hear all that, did you?"

"What are you planning? Didn't we just tell you that it was an accident?" I told her.

"Oh please, like I'll believe that," Rainbow replied. Her attitude was slowly getting on my nerves. "

"If that's how you want to play, then go for it," I said, having enough of it. "Just remember, if you continue this, you might lose a good friend." I then ran forward, leaving Rainbow Dash behind. It wasn't a minute later that she caught up and gained the lead on us once more. I hoped that my words went through her hard head.

"Welcome back, Ponyvillians! It's me, Pinkie Pie!"

"and Spike!" They both continued to commentate the event. "Looks like Rainbow Dash is doing her best to catch up."

"I'm not sure how KETCHUP is going to help her in this contest. Now, in a hotdog eating contest, it can make them doggies nice and slippery. But personally, I prefer mustard." Pinkie Pie, yet again with the random commentary. Wait, did she just say hotdog?

"What about you, Spike?"

"Uh… I like… pickles?"

"Aaand, it looks like Applejack has found herself in quite a pickle as Rainbow overtakes her."

"As the racers enter Equestria's White Tail Wood, Rainbow Dash is back in the lead."

I got to admit. Rainbow Dash was doing a spectacular job in the race. So far, she hasn't done anything suspicious or dirty in the race. If she keeps up, she could win over Applejack cleanly.

Literally right when I'd thought of that, Rainbow pulled a tree branch on her way, and it smacked Applejack right in the face to take over the race. She just keeps making me disappointed. I wondered what Applejack would do. She wouldn't let that slide.

From the looks of it, Applejack had thought of something. She began to pull a branch she found behind her. Holding the branch, she made sure it was steady as she rides it, and then she let go, blasting her forward thanks to the motion.

That was insanely clever.

Once again, my legs were getting heavy, so I took it easy and jogged ahead. Every pony didn't stop running and soon caught up to me.

"Oh my, White Tail Woods is just lovely." I heard Twilight's voice, engrossed in the scenery. "Hey, Star Blast. Didn't know you were ahead of me."

"You really just wanted to sight see, huh? Are you just pacing yourself?" I asked.

"That and running from time to time." She said. "Speaking of running, what is Rainbow Dash doing over there?" She pointed to said pony, who was holding an arrow sign. "Hey, Rainbow. Shouldn't you be up ahead?"

Rainbow Dash chuckled. "I'm sure I'll win now."

"Except all the other racers just passed you."

Rainbow's eyes widened at the realization. "Oh, horse apples!" she dashed before addressing a farewell.

"What was that all about?" Twilight wondered.

Rainbow must've done something if she stopped running. I examined the arrow sign that she was holding earlier. I then found out that the nail connecting the plank from the wood was loose. Did she change the direction to lure Applejack away from the track?

I showed Twilight my discovery. "Remind me that we need to talk to Rainbow Dash after this."

"As long as nopony gets hurt, it's fine, Star Blast. That's just who Rainbow is. Besides, Applejack can think of something to get her back."

"Yeah, but still…"

"We'll worry about that later. We still have a race to finish!" Twilight encouraged brightly.

As soon as we exited the White Tail Woods, the smell of maple invaded my nose. The trees were giving off a sweet and fragrant scent that made my stomach grumble. Sooner did I realize that the gap between the racers and I was cut short until I was mixed in their stampede. Twilight was still going slow and steady though, and was way behind.

"I must say Spike, that this has been the most interesting Running of the Leaves in Equestria history!" Pinkie announced enthusiastically.

"With the most interesting announcing…" Spike murmured through the mic.

"But it isn't the running that has been fascinating. It's the lack of running!"

What made Pinkie say that? I thought to myself.

We passed through a narrow path, the maple trees mostly taking the space. I noticed that Rainbow Dash was stuck from a puddle of sticky syrup as we went past her. Karma, perhaps?

I suddenly felt a gush of wind on my right and a blurry figure, but I shrugged it off.

Moments later, the strong wind returned, but this time it lasted longer. The ground began to shake, and I could hear loud noises behind me.

I could see the finish line several feet ahead of me. I was close to the end, so I just gunned for it until, at last, I crossed it. I took deep breaths as I slowed down and sat in the grass. The other racers followed and finished one by one, and they all look more exhausted than I was. I'm glad that I took breaks.

"Congratulations, Star Blast!" Twilight's voice surprised me a bit.

"What are you congratulating me for?"

"Didn't you know? You've won the race!"

Now that caught me off guard. I didn't even realize. "Wait, what?"

"The other racers who were with you began to tire out, but you had the energy to spare at the end and crossed the finish line." Twilight explained.

"Huh, how convenient. What about you?"

Twilight smiled. "I came in right behind you for fifth place. I consider it an accomplishment."

I was happy for her as I smiled back. "Yeah, for a rookie racer, that is a win."

How did she get 5th place if she was way behind?

Pinkie's eager announcing came near. I watched what was going on at the race, and it turns out that Rainbow Dash and Applejack were still fighting to be ahead.

"It's Applejack! It's Rainbow Dash!" Pinkie kept announcing on repeat, fervently smacking the edge of the hot air balloon in anticipation.

Applejack and Rainbow were nothing but a moving dust cloud the way they were fighting for the finish until they finally crossed. They both were covered in dirt, and their manes were frazzled.

"I won!" Rainbow declared. I think I'll just keep quiet until Pinkie Pie announces who really won.

"No, I won!" AJ countered.

"You tied!" Spike told them.

"Tied?! For first?" Applejack asked.

"For last!" Pinkie answered.

"Last?! Then who won?" Rainbow questioned.

The hot air balloon hovered over me. "Fillies and Gentlecolts! Your winner of this year's Running of the Leaves is no other than STAR BLAST!"

The crowds cheered loudly at the mention of my name. I scratched the back of my head and smiled in embarrassment. Pinkie and Spike hopped down the hot air balloon and awarded us the medals by giving it themselves.

"Even TWILIGHT has a medal? How is that even possible?" Applejack said in disbelief.

"She ran so slow and looked at the scenery!" Rainbow reasoned.

"Exactly. I paced myself, just as the book said. Then at the end, when the other racers are worn out, I sprinted to the finish. That's how Star Blast also won first place, although a bit different from my approach." Twilight explained.

"I can't believe it. These two beat us." Rainbow said in disbelief.

"Well, with all your horsing around, it was quite easy to take advantage of it," I told them.

Applejack sighed in defeat. "You're right. Our behavior was just terrible."

"We weren't very good sports…" Rainbow added. "I'm also sorry for ignoring what you said to me back there, Blast."

"At least you admit it. That's good enough for me." I said to her.

"Sounds to me like an important lesson was learned." A familiar voice came about. Celestia was marching towards us with a smile on her face as usual. Every pony bowed down at her presence.

"Princess Celestia?" Twilight, Applejack, and Rainbow exclaimed at her sudden arrival.

"What are you doing here, Celestia?" I asked.

"Fall is one of my favorite seasons, so I came to celebrate the Running of the Leaves. Also, congratulations for winning first place, Star Blast." She said

"I consider myself lucky. I mean, anypony could have won the race, especially these two." I gestured to Rainbow Dash and Applejack, who lowered their heads in shame.

"I'm sorry you had to see us being such poor sports, Princess." Applejack apologized.

"That's alright, Applejack. Anypony can get swept up at the excitement of competition."

"It's important to remember that friendship is always more important than the competition." Twilight reminded.

"Exactly, Twilight." Celestia smiled at her pupil. "Now unfortunately, because the two of you were busy tricking each other instead of shaking down leaves, many of the lovely trees of Equestria are still covered." She looked over the forest, which was indeed unbothered by the race.

"Why Princess, I bet we can knock down those leaves for you lickety-split." Applejack said confidently. "What do you say, friend? Wanna go for another round?"

"I'd love to stretch my legs." Rainbow got into position, as well as Applejack. They then began sprinting towards the forest.

"They sure are an energetic pair," Celestia commented. I must agree with her on that. "It was nice to see you have so much fun, Twilight."

"It is indeed fun, Princess!" Twilight said. "Look, I even got fifth place in my first ever race!"

"I am so proud of you, Twilight," Celestia said. "Oh dear, I am famished. Would you two like to join me to eat lunch at SugarCube Corner? I never got to try their food the last time I was here."

"Sure, Princess Celestia. We'll take you there." Twilight said.

"Are you going to stay awhile?" I asked.

"I am. I wish to speak with you two about your studies as we eat."

"Oh, then I guess we better get going." We started to walk until we were interrupted by loud screams.

"What in the hay was that?" Twilight wondered.

I looked back at the race's path. Two ponies were barreling their way towards us, clouds of dust trailing them from behind. They were loud as they ran, the leaves instantly falling as they passed the trees… Oh boy.

"Is that… Speedy and Silver?" Twilight guessed. I couldn't hold back the facepalm.

"RAAAAAAAAAAGH!" The two of them continued to shout as they literally jumped to cross the finish line. Everypony's gaze was on the two of them.

"Aha! I won!" Speedy exclaimed.

"Oh no, you didn't! I was ahead!" Silver argued.

"Uh, no, you didn't!"

"Uh, yes I did!"

I cleared my throat as I stood over them. Their heads slowly turned to look me into the eye. I was wearing a face of infuriation.

Speedy started to laugh nervously. "What's up, Rob?"

"Where have you two been?" I questioned calmly.

"I uh… overslept?" he answered meekly. I then turned to Silver.

"I… got caught up at work."

"All right then…" I took a deep breath. "You guys do know that you made a promise, right?"

"We're sorry." They both apologized at the same time.

"Fine… I mean, you did help bring down the remaining leaves in Ponyville." I gestured to the trees that are now leafless. "So good job, I guess."

"If I may interject so kindly, but which one of us crossed the finish line first?" Speedy asked abruptly.

"Yeah! Who?" Silver followed.

I rolled my eyes and gave them answer. "Even if one of you two did, you still didn't accomplish our agreement. Did you two even sign in to be in the race?"

They looked at each other as if expecting to see who would answer between them.

"So you didn't sign in? Then this doesn't count."

"Hey! We were in a hurry!" Speedy argued. "Come on, dude! Just tell us who got to the line first."

I sighed in exasperation. "Both of you crossed at the same time. Happy?"

"Darn it!" Silver punched the ground. "This always happens!"

I shushed him up and gestured to Celestia, who just watched the whole thing. Speedy and Silver instantly stood up straight and had a cheeky smile on both of their faces.

"Hello, Princess Celestia." They addressed.

"It's nice to see the both of you again, Silver Spur and Speedy Glee." Celestia greeted. "What seems to be the situation here, Star Blast? If you don't mind me asking."

"Not at all, Celestia. They've kind of… supposed to have a competition of their own like Applejack and Rainbow Dash, but it didn't pull through."

"It all started because this guy can't accept defeat." Speedy pointed to Silver, who slapped his hoof away.

"Hmm… I see. Then I have a suggestion if you two are willing to comply."

I raised my head at that statement. I'm pretty sure Speedy and Silver did too, out of curiosity.


"Now, I suppose this contest will suffice?" Celestia said.

We sat across a huge dining table set up at SugarCube Corner, and in front of us were two mountains of glazed donuts for Speedy and Silver. I didn't know the Princess could think of suggesting something like an eating contest. Twilight, Celestia, and I had food of our own, in smaller portions, of course.

"Well, this looks fun," Speedy said. "I have a pretty fast metabolism. I'm not sure about you, dude."

"Man, I eat a lot of protein to gain muscle. That'll be a cinch." Silver boasted.

"Hah, this should be interesting." Speedy cracked his neck. "Welp, time to bring out our inner Matt Stonie! You ready?"

Silver stretched his hooves and gave Speedy a competitive glare. "Oh, it's ON."

"On your mark. Get set. Go!" Twilight announced from the other end, and there they go, sucking the donuts like vacuums. It was a sloppy mess, more so when they take turns from chewing and trash-talking. I hid my face away from Celestia, who was looking quite amused at the sight.

"Those two are indeed fun to be with, Star Blast. I can see why you are friends with them." Celestia said.

"Oh, they are a treat…"

"Look at them, though. At least they are having more fun than the last… twenty times I saw them compete against each other?" Twilight cited, taking a bite out of her cheesecake.

"Now that you mention it, they're less hostile in this one, thank goodness." Wouldn't want them killing each other, figuratively, in front of the Princess. Now that's just rude.

I cringed at another torrent of trash talk asfood crumbs flew across the table from them. I urged myself to ask Celestia, "This doesn't bother you, Princess?"

"Not at all." She took a sip from her tea. "I enjoy the company, even if they are a bit rowdy. I used to dine alone back in Canterlot, and I am more than glad to be with a group such as yours."

I looked at Twilight, and she confirmed that it is true.

"It must be boring, then. Being alone for quite some time." Celestia and I turned to each other and exchanged smiles in sympathy.

We heard a pained yelp from Speedy as he continued to chew his food.

"Ow! Oh my gosh, it hurts!" He then took another bite of a donut with a blissful look. "So good-OW!"

I frowned at him. "Your toothache acting up again?"

Speedy was teary-eyed, yet he kept eating. He nodded a whimper.

"You want to forfeit?" Silver gulped his food. "Because if you want, we can stop."

He shook his head, whimpering in pain. He stuffed another donut in his mouth, and he cried in agony once more.

"Oh my…" Celestia was speechless at Speedy's grit.

Other than the lesson we learned with Applejack and Rainbow Dash earlier, if there was one thing I learned today, the determination and adrenaline rush you feel in a contest can do you wonders. Even if it rots your teeth in an eating competition.

Yeah, I think I should give him painkillers now.


Author's note!

I AM BACK, BABY! COLLEGE, SUCK MY STALE SPRITE CRANBERRY FROM LAST CHRISTMAS!

Oh, and my computer has been acting up again :| (It shut down while I was updating this)

Hopefully, I can update more frequently now that it's my summer vacation here at my place

Thanks for your support, and once again, it's good to be back! - Super Bright Brat


DISCLAIMER: I OWN NOTHING EXCEPT MY OCs!