Sunset and Captain Zest had finally arrived at the Canterlot Harbor, where Rockhoof and the rest of the council were waiting. The goal seemed clear for everyone, as this expedition was vital for recovering the Dragonstone, along with searching for and rescuing the passengers. Twilight deduced that since the wastelands future had vaguely alluded to Night Glider making a mysterious disappearance, shortly after her coronation, it was entirely possible that she was among the passengers who were now seemingly stranded. Even if finding the Dragonstone would somehow be futile in preventing that awful future, at the very least, this trip was necessary as a means of protecting her citizens, and Twilight knew it was still her responsibility as the new princess of Equestria. Whatever was the case now, it was finally time to set out to sea, especially since Sunset had finally convinced an experienced ship navigator to steer Rockhoof’s boat, which had already passed maintenance inspection.

“Alright, everyone.” Twilight announced to the rest of her friends. “Since the boat’s already been thoroughly inspected by the Canterlot vessel maintenance team, we’re good to go. It seems like we have everything we need to reclaim the Dragonstone and save Equestria. We got a crew, a navigator, and a clear mission in mind.”

“I’m beginning to contemplate whether or not I should come along as well, Princess.” Rockhoof said. “Although I may be capable of lending my strength on this expedition, I certainly wouldn’t be of much help on the open waters.”

“Well… as long as you don’t tell our navigator to follow the constellations, we shouldn’t run into any issues.” Twilight replied. “But since you were the one who hid the Dragonstone, we might also need you to help us locate its exact spot.”

“I suppose that’s the only other thing I can do now.” Rockhoof nodded.

Sunset and Captain Zest began boarding the boat, followed by Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and then Pinkie. However, as soon as Pinkie stepped onto the port, something unexpected began to occur. The boat began to rapidly shake back and forth, as it began sinking, almost as if it was suddenly above a whirlpool.

“What the-!?” Twilight shrieked. “That’s not supposed to happen! Quickly everyone, abandon ship!”

Everyone had done so in a panic, rather confused as to how the boat was suddenly having problems, despite already passing inspection earlier. After doing so, the boat returned to its original position, almost as if nothing had happened.

“The boat began sinking after I stepped aboard?” Pinkie noted. “I knew I shouldn’t have had all that pasta for lunch.”

“I’m pretty sure that wasn’t it, Pinkie.” Twilight assured. “I mean… it felt like the boat began to sink because it was carrying too much weight. But I’m guessing there’s something else going on here. Rockhoof, do you have any idea what happened?”

“Ah, I’ve forgotten.” Rockhoof recalled. “Since this boat was specifically designed for me back in the day, it was only accustomed to be capable of supporting my weight alone. If the weight exceeds the limit even slightly, it’ll cause the vessel to sink down almost instantly. I have no idea why the merchant constructed her this way, but I vaguely remember it was primarily to allow the ship to move… better?”

“Sounds like a certain buoyancy law I studied in science class at CHS.” Sunset suggested. “It must be because you had to traverse incredibly rapid waters, and excess weight just increases the pressure on the surface to the helm.”

“I suppose that could be it, lass.” Rockhoof nodded, although not fully understanding Sunset’s knowledge on physics. “In other words, it looks like she’ll only support the weight of five of you little ponies before deciding it’s more than she can handle.”

“It also sounds like if we bring you along, Rockhoof?” Starlight observed. “We’d already be past the weight limit, forcing you to go by yourself. Certainly out of the question without our navigator.”

“Aye.” Rockhoof agreed. “So in other words, the best I can really do is lend this ship, and the recollection that the Dragonstone is hidden at the center of the island. At least, if my knowledge on the constellations back then were accurate…”

“Well, we’re going to have to do our best, then.” Twilight said, determined. “But come to think of it… couldn’t we simply use our wings to fly to the island, or better yet, use our magic to levitate anypony who can’t hover themselves?”

“It’s not advisable.” Rockhoof quickly warned. “Rumor has it that going near this island will suddenly make you lose your magic, as if there’s some kind of curse surrounding it. It’s another reason why many who attempt to reach Everfree Island never make it back, never mind the rough seas. Once you lose your magic, you’d better hope you’re a strong swimmer, otherwise… you get the idea.”

“I understand, and appreciate the warning.” Twilight nodded, not wanting to take that risk. “Alright, so let’s see… we already know we must bring Captain Zest, myself, and Sunset… so that just leaves space for two other ponies. Who else should come along?”

“I’ll come along.” Rainbow raised her hoof, before coming back over to the docks. “If Sunset’s going, so am I. It’s the very least I can do, especially since we got off on the wrong hoof. Plus, this whole adventure expedition just seems like my kind of thing. I’ve even done so with A.K. Yearling herself, so I certainly have the experience.”

“I’d normally join an expedition like this as well, but… I’m not sure I’d be of much use.” Starlight added. “If this island’s curse is going to disable my magic, I don’t think I’d be able to contribute much.”

“Same could be said for the rest of us.” Applejack pondered. “I reckon most of us wouldn’t be capable in helpin’ ya if we tend to rely on our strength, magic, or flyin’ capabilities.”

“I’ll go.” Flash Sentry volunteered, before trotting over as well. “I may not be much without my flight, but I’ve made it my commitment to protect others til the very end, especially if the princess herself is going.”

“Hmm, so let’s see…” Twilight observed the four other ponies standing by her side. “Everypony here is either experienced with adventures, steering a ship over rough waters, or incredibly determined to get the Dragonstone no matter what. If this is as much weight as the boat will allow, I suppose it’s the best crew we have for now.”

“We really wish we could all come along with you, Twilight.” Rarity moped. “We’ve always stuck together on countless adventures.”

“I know, but at the same time, certain circumstances will unfortunately prevent it from happening.” Twilight replied. “Just like when I had to go to the human world by myself to retrieve my crown. I really hope we’ll be successful in this voyage, with the limited crew we have.”

“We’ll be wishing you the best on this journey!” Spike began waving goodbye.

Captain Zest, Sunset, Twilight, Rainbow, and Flash had all boarded the ship, which remained stable with the weight it was carrying. With the plan and crew now selected, Captain Zest released the chain holding the ship in place, ready to set off on their new adventure. The rest of the council and Rockhoof were also waving goodbye and wishing them the best of luck. However, just as the boat had already left a good distance from the harbor, something suddenly clicked within Spike.

“Wait a minute… what am I doing!?” Spike’s eyes widened as he jumped off the dock and attempted to board the ship as well, only to miss by several feet, before falling into the water. “TWILIGHT, WAIT!!!”

“Spike!” Fluttershy called out, before flying down to rescue the dragon, and bringing him back onto the dock.

“What was that all about, Sugarcube?” Applejack asked, rather confused.

“You know, it’s just…” Spike blushed in embarrassment. “Last time Twilight went off into uncharted territory, I just couldn’t fight this instinct to join her, since we’ve always been inseparable. But on second thought, it’s probably better that I didn’t go, since I would’ve sunk the ship in the middle of departure. Plus, last time I carelessly went followed Twilight into a journey like this, I turned into a dog.”

“You did?” Fluttershy’s eyes widened in joy. “That sounds so adorable, you should tell us how that story went, it would certainly help pass us the time.”

“Well, if you insist… I suppose I could tell you about the time I, Spike the heroic dog, single-handedly rescued Sunset, Twilight, and the rest of her friends during the Battle of the Bands, after a trio of sirens had trapped them underneath the stage.” Spike began to retell his own story of events. “You see…”

“Oh, Spike.” Twilight giggled from a distance, as she had overheard the entire thing.

“Well, at least he’ll be keeping the rest of the council entertained for a while.” Sunset rolled her eyes in amusement.

After a while, the boat had been cruising far along the seas, well on its way to reach Everfree Island quite soon. Not knowing what to expect from this daring adventure, Sunset began pondering how they would go about their plan, leading up to reaching their destination.

“Not really sure what to expect when we arrive at that island.” Sunset said. “I’m guessing this will be uncharted territory for the whole crew.”

“Yeah, never even heard of this Everfree Island place, but it already sounds like it could be a miserable experience, especially if we lose our abilities to fly.” Rainbow replied.

“We might lose our flight, but not all heroes wear capes.” Flash stayed determined. “It’s now a matter of sticking together as a team to ensure the safety and future of Equestria.”

“I’m glad you decided to come along for the journey, Flash.” Twilight smiled. “Not for the reasons that Rainbow and Sunset may think, but err… it’s good to have a pony with as much combat experience as yourself. I vaguely recall hearing that you recently began training sessions with a katana?”

“Affirmative.” Flash nodded. “I figured they would come in handy someday, and it looks like that day’s finally arrived. I just wish dad could see me now, and how far I’ve come.”

“Wherever he is, I’m sure he couldn’t have asked for a better son.” Sunset put a hoof on Flash’s shoulder. “As for you and Flash, Twilight? I’ve already gotten to know him pretty well, and he’s explained everything, so no need to worry. I won’t tease you like the rest of your friends once did when you came back to Equestria during your first adventure to the human world.”

“Well, it’s not that I resent that kind of teasing, it’s just… it had a negative effect on us both, especially Flash.” Twilight explained. “Ever since I returned from that first journey, rumors spread rather quickly around Canterlot. Then, as far as I’m aware, Flash had to endure many of his colleagues poking fun at him or making him feel awful about it, despite the fact he had no romantic interest in me to begin with.”

“It never really bothered me that much, Princess.” Flash assured. “Coming from a stallion who lost his father at a young age, along with the extensive training in the academy, I’d say my earlier life really prepared and toughened me up.”

“I’m glad you feel that way, but it’s just so frustrating.” Twilight sighed. “For a while, nopony could ever see the fruits of your labor, let alone appreciate what you contributed to Equestria as far as protection and leadership. They just made kissy noises whenever you were nearby and just treated you like a complete joke. And all for what, just because you may or may not have reminded me of someone I had a bit of a crush on?”

“I’ll admit, it was bothersome at first, which was why I began laying low from the public, shortly after I had the honors of welcoming the Duke and Dutchess of Maretonia.” Flash replied. “But after a while, I just kept telling myself I’m above retaliating, and that my dad wouldn’t want me carrying on his legacy like this. In fact, he’s actually the one who taught me how to stand up for myself against bullies at a young age. It’s part of the reason why I became a royal guard in the first place, to protect those in need, and those who may not be as capable of defending themselves.”

“That’s certainly something you and I definitely have in common, Flash.” Sunset related, remembering how she saved Lily from Gilda that night. “In fact, most of my attributes and interests were primarily because… I once dated someone similar, let’s just say. Leather jackets, playing guitar, and helping others whenever they needed it.”

“Maybe I should start making kissing noises whenever you and Flash are together then, Sunset.” Rainbow teased.

“Really, Rainbow?” Twilight raised an eyebrow at this behavior. “Or are you suddenly Indigo Zap again?”

“Come on, I’m only joking.” Rainbow played it off, before feeling guilty. “Actually, yeah, that was pretty uncalled for, I’m sorry for making that comment. In fact, the whole ordeal between me and Sunset has been an eye-opener for me. While you were unconscious earlier, Sunset? The rest of the council and I had a serious talk regarding what the various problems they’ve had with me over the years. Even recent events, including the childish competition with Applejack, or putting my ego first when it came wanting to coach the buckball team at the School of Friendship.”

“I also remember them mentioning a whole lot of other things, including… breaking into the Cloudsdale weather factory?” Sunset recalled.

“Yeah, it was pretty selfish of me to do something like that, simply because of my pet tortoise, Tank.” Rainbow said with shame. “I just… it never really occurred to me that I haven’t really been as much of a friend to everypony else on the council, and most of these conflicts have primarily been because of me. It’s almost as if I have a tendency to not learn my lesson every time, because it never seemed like that big of a deal to me. Not this time, however, especially with what happened between you and I, Sunset.”

“So… what are you saying then, Rainbow?” Sunset said with curiosity.

“Going forward, I want to stay true to being my title element of being a loyal friend.” Rainbow said genuinely. “I can really understand now why the council had said such nasty things about me when Indigo was impersonating me, and honestly, I really deserved it. I might’ve been insecure about competition and being the best my whole life, but it’s never worth the cost of a true friend.”

“I understand we might’ve said some pretty harsh things, but I’m sure they were mostly under the impression of you refusing to amends with Sunset.” Twilight clarified.

“Well, even so, I’d still completely understand why nopony would want to be my friend anymore if I really behaved that way.” Rainbow admitted. “I know it seems like I’ve already learned my ‘lesson’ countless times, but I promise you, I really mean it this time. Sunset, Twilight, from now on… I won’t let my ego overtake my actions, especially at the expense of my friends. And I want to prove that in this journey, making sure to stick with you ponies until the very end, and guaranteeing we’ll get that Dragonstone and save Equestria!”

“I really love your new attitude, Rainbow.” Twilight said, impressed. “We’ve seen you struggle with this in the past, but it sounds like you really have faith in yourself now, I’m so proud of you. Sunset, it seems as if your experience with friendship in the other world has now even rubbed off on my friends as well.”

“I’m glad to hear that, Twilight.” Sunset smiled. “It’s always great when you can learn from your mistakes and become a better pony because of it, I certainly know from experience. And Rainbow, I really appreciate your determination to change for the better. I know we can count on you during this expedition. We’re so happy to have you as our friend again.”

“Thanks, you two.” Rainbow nodded with approval. “I promise I won’t let you down, and give 110% for the future of Equestria! Since we may be reaching the island soon, should we perhaps discuss our strategy for dealing with obstacles and getting to the Dragonstone?”

“That’s a great idea.” Twilight agreed. “I’ve been thinking about it as well, and I think it’s important that we all contribute our unique talents to the team. For example, Sunset’s leadership skills, Flash’s combat experience, and of course, Rainbow, your flight and determination. We’ll have to work together to overcome whatever challenges we face.”

“Errr, Princess?” Lemon Zest turned to the rest of the crew with concern. “We may want to figure something out now as a team, sooner than I expected…”

“Hmm?” Twilight turned to their navigator. “Why’s that, Captain?”

“I’m already beginning to feel some heavy mist particles on my hooves…” Lemon Zest looked at her moistened fur. “That can only mean… we’re entering heavy fog. Also… has it suddenly gotten darker?”

“Huh… it can’t be nighttime already.” Twilight looked up at the sudden night sky. “Either Luna’s messing around with the moon right now, or something is terribly wrong.”

Moments later, a strange green fog began to surround the ship, completely obstructing the view of everypony on board. This was especially dangerous, as Captain Zest noticed the wavy waters becoming much rougher than before, making her line of sight absolutely vital.

“Maybe we should fly above the fog and get an idea of our position in respect to the longitude!” Flash suggested. “It’s certainly impossible to steer a boat in these conditions.”

Rainbow and Twilight nodded, before the two pegasai and princess attempted to fly up together to get a good view. But for some reason, their wings could only flutter for a few brief moments, before making them drop back down onto the boat like rocks.

“Hey, what in the…” Rainbow got up from the starboard. “I can’t fly! None of us can fly…?”

“It must be the fog.” Sunset began to deduce. “Rockhoof warned us that attempting to go near this island could result in us losing our magic. Call me crazy, but this fog seems… artificially created.”

“Sunset does have a point.” Flash began inspecting the fog. “This certainly doesn’t look like any natural fog I’ve seen in all my years at the academy.”

“It’s all… sparkly too.” Twilight observed, before attempting to use her horn to test her magic, and failing to cast a simple spell. “Well, whether or not the fog did this to us, it looks like all our magic is now gone. This is certainly troublesome.”

“We’d better think of something fast, Princess!” Lemon Zest urged. “Last thing I want to do is steer us right into an iceberg I couldn’t even see coming!”

Sunset, Twilight, Flash, and Rainbow all huddled together, trying to come up with ideas on how to ameliorate their current predicament. The loss of magic was something they were warned about prior to the expedition, but they had no idea it would become a conundrum. Unable to navigate properly across the rough sea, Captain Zest focused her energy on doing her best to steer. However, soon enough, a strange kelp-like vine began to emerge from the water and slither onto the boat. It snuck behind the captain and tapped her on the back of her head.

“Yeah, yeah.” Lemon Zest felt the tap. “I know we need a solution, but I have to focus on treading these waters. Could you all please not distract me?”

“Huh…?” Twilight looked up, rather confused. “Captain Zest… we’re all over here.”

Suddenly, more vines emerged from behind the four other ponies, tapping them on their heads as well. Flash, Sunset, Rainbow, and Twilight all turned around in unison, finally seeing what must’ve poked their captain.

“Whoa!” Sunset jumped back a bit, startled by the vine attempting to grab her. “What in Equestria are these things!?”

“No idea, but they don’t look friendly.” Rainbow said, concerned. “Twilight, don’t these vines look pretty similar to those spiked, thorny black vines we saw coming from the Everfree Forest that one time?”

“Well, this is Everfree Island we’re talking about, so it wouldn’t surprise me if they were distant relatives.” Twilight replied. “Either way, it looks like these vines are trying to throw us off the boat! We’d better do something about them!”

“Go show them what sea ponies like yourselves are made of!” Lemon Zest encouraged. “But be careful, these waters are becoming increasingly rapid!”

Everypony aside from the captain went over to a nearby toolbox and grabbed various pieces of metal equipment. They slashed and hacked at the vines attempting to grab them, until all the vines fell limp and back into the water.

“Ha, it looks like those vines knew not to mess with us, we’re awesome.” Rainbow remarked, proudly.

But this feeling of relief was short-lived, as an eerie voice began to emerge, startling the five ponies on board.

“OooOooOooOooOooOooOooOoo…” A ghostly female voice began to make itself apparent over the fog.

“I-I-Is that a g-g-ghost?” Sunset began to worry.

“D-Don’t be ridiculous!” Twilight stuttered. “T-T-There’s no such thing as a… g-g-ghost… is there?”

“Foolish mortals…” The ghostly voice said, now with a hint of anger. “How dare you retaliate in response to my warning for you to stay away from Everfree Island! Now you will pay the ultimate price!”

Suddenly, 100 different kelp vines emerged from the waters, ready to sink the ship to the bottom of the sea. Many vines began to hack away at the ship’s wood and frames, causing vital damage to their vessel. Everypony on board began panicking and running around to slash up the vines, but there were way too many to handle.

“This is not happening, this is NOT happening!!!” Rainbow began to pull at her mane in anxiety. “Somepony, please pinch me and see if this is just a bad dream!”

One of the vines humorously pinched Rainbow’s neck, as she winced in pain.

“Ouch!” Rainbow rubbed her neck. “Alright, fine then… HELP!!!!!!!!”

Suddenly, the fog grew even thicker than before, practically blinding everypony on board. As the rest of the vines continued attacking and damaging the boat, the entire crew could begin feeling the boat crack beneath their hooves. The vessel eventually snapped into pieces, beginning to sink downward, along with a bunch of shipwreck debris. Combined with the incredibly rough waters, the crew had no idea what was going to become of them, though it was clear that the situation was nothing but dire. Everypony soon fell into the water and blacked out, unsure if this was the end.

[hr]

With the unknown force causing an awful shipwreck for Sunset and her crew, trouble continued to brew within the human world. Human Sunset had already finished her setup at CHS, but became determined to know what Gilda had been up to. Rolling Thunder had gone back to the gang’s hideout, prompting Human Sunset to thoroughly search around town for any sign of the gang’s former leader. Having not even the slightest clue of what Gilda had been plotting behind her back, Human Sunset only cared for nothing more than a reasonable explanation as to why she had gone missing that morning.

After looking around town, she eventually caught glimpse of a rusty looking pickup truck, with Gilda in the driver’s seat. Human Sunset ran like never before, following the truck to see where she was headed. As the truck stopped at an upcoming red light, Human Sunset ran up to the side of the passenger window and began tapping on the glass. Gilda instinctively looked to her right and rolled the window down.

“Well, you certainly took your sweet time in meeting up with me.” Human Sunset frowned. “Now you’d better have a good explanation as to why you were gone all morning!”

“Oh, but I absolutely do, boss.” Gilda said, sarcastically. “I just wanted to keep your coffee warm this morning.”

“Coffee, huh?” Human Sunset narrowed her eyes and cracked her knuckles. “If you’re just going to lie to me like this, I think our conversation is already over.”

“Alright, fine then…” Gilda said, pretending to act sad. “But if getting revenge on those girls at Crystal Prep Academy isn’t of any interest to you, then I guess that’s your problem, not mine.”

“I never said that!” Human Sunset spat. “Of course I want to get back at those stuck-up snobs! So am I to assume your absence this morning was because you went spying on them? What could you have possibly found out?”

“What if I told you that I overheard those girls discussing something incredibly valuable to them?” Gilda asked, rhetorically. “That Indigo girl apparently stored her entire gang’s vintage school uniforms in her own locker, which are all supposedly worth around 20 grand each. And miraculously, I somehow got her locker combination. Does that interest you, boss?”

Human Sunset’s eyes widened in disbelief, before she unlocked the car door and climbed into the vehicle, knowing that the traffic light would turn green soon.

“Well, I have no idea how you managed to pull something like that off, but all right then.” Human Sunset calmed herself a bit. “This better be true though, Gilda. If this is all just a lie, I swear I’ll make you regret it.”

“If you wish, why don’t I take you to Crystal Prep Academy right now, and prove this ain’t no fairy tale?” Gilda smirked with confidence.

“Fine, then.” Human Sunset crossed her arms. “But if we’re going to do this, we’re going to have to move fast. Those girls at CHS might already be on to us, after what I did this morning.”

“Whatever you say, boss.” Gilda rolled her eyes. “Why don’t you tell me what happened, so I don’t get bored?”

Gilda continued driving with Human Sunset to Crystal Prep Academy, ready to begin the next phase of her plan. Though at the back of her mind, the former gang leader was desperately hoping that the locker combination was indeed correct. Toying with Human Sunset was one thing, but she was admittedly still quite afraid of the vengeful Crystal Prep dropout, especially knowing her strength. Regardless, Gilda’s focus remained on obtaining those vintage uniforms, as to play along with the entire scheme, and not make Human Sunset suspicious of her dastardly plan behind the scenes.

[hr]

Back in Equestria, Sunset and her entire crew were found unconscious from that unexpected encounter earlier, but miraculously still afloat on scattered planks of wood. They had somehow managed to already pass through the incredibly devastating waters prior to their boat sinking. Getting back up, Sunset saw that although the boat was practically all gone, she and the four other ponies were right next to her on what remained of the ship’s deck, drifting slowly along the smoother waters. Everypony appeared to be out of danger for the time being, but Sunset quickly realized that they were now lost and stranded.

Looking at her surroundings, the night sky had mysteriously vanished, as everything looked bright and sunny again, furthering the idea that the fog and change in atmosphere were artificially created. Sunset also noticed that there didn’t seem to be any sign of land for miles, only seemingly endless stretches of water. This made it impossible to deduce whether or not they were closer to reaching the island, or sailed off in the wrong direction. Sunset slowly got up from the ship debris and attempted to wake the other ponies up, contemplating what they should do next.

“Twilight, Rainbow?” Sunset poked at the unconscious ponies, hoping they would be responsive. “Flash? Captain Zest? Can any of you hear me?”

“Ugh, not now, mom…” Rainbow muttered. “Five more minutes… please- huh? Sunset?”

“Wha-?” Twilight began regaining consciousness. “Sunset, is that you?”

“Bleh…” Lemon Zest began feeling nauseous. “I’ve never felt this seasick in my life, ironically enough.”

“My aching…” Flash began rubbing his head to ease the pain. “Whatever was back there in the fog, it wasn’t enough to bring us tough soldiers down!”

“I’m glad to see we’re all okay.” Sunset smiled at her crew. “Even though we’re all still here, we’ve got another major problem. No ship, so we’re now stranded, and have to rely on these leftover pieces of the ship to keep us afloat.”

“That’s definitely problematic, but hey.” Rainbow tried to stay positive, before flapping her wings. “Since the fog’s gone, maybe we can fly now-”

Rainbow quickly dropped back down like a rock, before creating a huge splash in the water, and climbing back aboard the shipwreck debris in a panic.

“Alright, never mind.” Rainbow sighed. “It looks like the fog really took away our magic and flight.”

“For the first time as the princess, I’m really not sure what else we can do.” Twilight began losing hope. “It doesn’t look like there’s any sign of land nearby.”

“Never had this happen in all my years of navigating a boat.” Lemon Zest reflected. “But I’m thinking we don’t have much of a choice beyond riding this driftwood until we can get to land. It’s either that, or hope that somepony else on the waters is able to rescue us.”

Everypony began thoroughly looking around, desperately wanting to spot any potential form of a rescue. This went on for several minutes, but there didn’t seem to be anything at all. By this point, Twilight heavily regretted not coming up with a backup plan, in the unlikelihood that something like this could’ve transpired. The situation looked bleak and hopeless for the entire crew, but eventually, Flash took notice of something much further away.

“Hey, wait a minute… is that another ship in the distance?” Flash pointed behind Sunset.

Everypony turned around, squinting their eyes to get a better look the horizon, before noticing an incredibly subtle shape of what looked like a large ship.

“Ahoy, good eye, dude!” Lemon Zest said, optimistically. “But it seems like they’re way too far away. How would we even get their attention?”

“Hmm, that’s a good question.” Rainbow began pondering. “If only we still had our flight…”

“Quite the conundrum for sure.” Twilight felt dumbfounded for the first time in ages. “I’m usually the one coming up with plans, but for once, I’m definitely open to any new suggestions. Anypony?”

While brainstorming ideas, Sunset suddenly remembered what she had been told earlier, when she was visiting Celestia and Luna in Silver Shoals. The two former princesses hinted they had been consistently preparing Twilight with all of her new royal responsibilities, including raising the sun and moon to help balance out her workload. Sunset then recalled from a young age, hearing her adoptive mother often mention her sister having a habit of using her Royal Canterlot Voice, which was remarkably loud. Assuming the two sisters had been prepping Twilight long before the coronation, it seemed entirely possible that Luna might’ve taught the princess this, especially if it meant giving orders to the royal guards.

“Twilight, I’d assume that Princess Celestia and Luna taught you quite a bit to prepare for becoming the new princess of Equestria?” Sunset asked.

“I mean, yeah, it’s to be expected.” Twilight replied. “Couldn’t imagine they’d be comfortable with the idea if I hadn’t gone through the proper training.”

“Well, has Princess Luna taught you a thing or two on using the Royal Canterlot Voice?” Sunset suggested. “I’ve often heard Princess Celestia mention this, and how incredibly loud it is. Maybe even loud enough to get that ship’s attention?”

“Huh, you’re right, Sunset.” Twilight liked the ingenuity in Sunset’s idea. “That might actually work, since I had been practicing a week ago. And to think I told Princess Luna that I felt it didn’t seem too important for me to learn. Well, if it means I can get that ship to come over rescue us, I’ll try my best.”

Twilight cleared her voice several times, before turning in the direction of the ship, hoping that her voice could let whoever was on the ship become alerted to her presence.

“[b]EVIL, BEWARE!!! WE HAVE WAFFLES!!![/b]” Twilight bellowed at the top of her lungs.

“Uhhh, why did you say that, instead of calling for help, Princess?” Lemon Zest asked, rather confused.

“Sorry, it’s just a… force of habit.” Twilight blushed. “Princess Luna was constantly teaching me those lessons during breakfast, so there is that.”

“Well hey, look!” Flash pointed to the direction of the boat. “Regardless of what you said, it looks like whoever’s aboard that ship heard you loud and clear!”

With the flow pushing the crew closer and closer to the direction of the now approaching ship, they eventually drifted in front of the vessel, thankful that they were about to be rescued from their current predicament. However, although the rest of the crew initially felt this, it came as an immediate unpleasant surprise to Rainbow, once she saw who was aboard the ship. It was a large stallion with an orange mane and brown vest, whom Rainbow definitely recognized from her previous adventures with Daring Do.

“What’s this, now?” Rogue raised his eyebrow at the ponies drifting along the open waters. “Am I to understand that you ponies need rescue? Also, where’s those waffles you promised? At least cook us those waffles before we decide to rescue you.”

“Mate, does look it look like we have the ingredients, or a kitchen on us!?” Lemon Zest snapped. “Now quit fooling around, and please… just help us up!”

“Fine, if you insist.” Rogue narrowed his eyes, before throwing down a rope, allowing the stranded ponies to climb aboard. “For the record, I was really hoping you did have waffles, so to say I’m disappointed… is an understatement. Nopony messes with my snack cravings.”

As Flash and Rainbow made their way abord, the entire crew then noticed two other stallions coming out from the ship’s cabin, who were also familiar to Rainbow.

“Well, well, well… what do we have here?” Biff looked around at the ponies Rogue had reeled up. “Looks like we caught some extra tuna this fine day.”

“More like some stowaways, from the looks of it.” Withers deduced. “Including one very familiar Rainbow haired pony among them.”

“You know these guys, Rainbow?” Sunset questioned.

“Yeah, and let’s just say from my experience… they’re not exactly friendly.” Rainbow glared at the trio of stallions. “After all, don’t our previous adventures with Daring Do ring a bell?”

“Well, how nice of you to remind us, after we let you set hoof on our ship.” Withers spat. “To tell you the truth, we would’ve normally just left you behind to rot in this sea. What do we look like, lifeguards?”

“But moving past this, it looks like Rogue had the right idea to reel you ponies aboard.” Biff smirked. “The boss mentioned wanting to find a little extra muscle to do his dirty work, perhaps he’ll find excellent uses for you five.”

“Your boss!?” Rainbow spat. “You mean to tell me you clowns still work for Dr. Caballeron?”

“Nah, we quit working for Caballeron, especially after he promised to stop pillaging artifacts from lands.” Withers explained. “Why would we topnotch crooks stick with some sissy book author now?”

“We wanted to have some real fun, so we found a new boss who delivers on just that.” Rogue sneered. “Somepony who knows how to become rich by being nothing but ruthless. Come on out, boss!”

Sunset and her crew then watched the ship’s cabin open one final time, rather curious at who this mysterious leader of the vessel was. It was a good chance that if they had hired Dr. Caballeron’s old henchponies, who had a track record of being ruthless and conniving crooks, they most likely had bad intentions. Stepping out of the cabin door, they saw a brown stallion with a dark green mane, dressed up as a pirate captain. Although Flash, Twilight, Rainbow, and Lemon Zest didn’t seem to recognize this stallion at all, Sunset did. With one glance at his cutie mark and color scheme, Sunset immediately realized that it was the pony counterpart of Timber Spruce, Gloriosa Daisy’s younger brother.

“That’s ‘Captain’ to you!” Timber snapped. “Captain Spruce! And you crewmates have done well by catching some cheap stowaways. They’d be me key in pillagin’ a nearby locale and doin’ some hard labor. Well then, being your captain, are ye five scallywags up to the task?”

“Listen here, Mr. Pirate!” Lemon Zest glared at Timber. “If there’s one rule of any ship, it’s that there can only be one captain, and that’s me! I got an official hat and license for it!”

“A captain of what ship, you little bilge?” Timber rolled his eyes. “Hmph. I suppose we could work together, me hearty. But just remember, it was me what found ye lot, so ye’d best be followin’ me orders!”

“Hearty!?” Lemon Zest raised an eyebrow. “Bleh, you wish! There’s no way I’m taking orders from you, let alone date you!”

“Date?!” Timber brought his sword out to assert his dominance. “I ain’t interested in no silly romance! I’m here to pillage and plunder, not to find some parrot to stroke! Ye ponies should be thankin’ me crew for the rescue, since followin’ me orders is ye lot’s way of repaying yer debt!”

“Well, regardless, don’t think you can use us as pawns in your little game!” Flash snapped. “Who do you think you are, taking us as hostages and forcing us to commit crimes on your behalf!?”

“You tell them, Flash!” Rainbow raised her wings whilst narrowing her eyes at the pirate captain. “We may have a princess with us, but she’s no damsel in distress! You salty old pirates think you’re so tough, but we can take you! Come on, gang, we’ve got them outnumbered, it’s five on four!”

“Believe ye can take on Captain Spruce and his crew!?” Timber simply brushed off the threat. “I’ve seen and pillaged armed ships back in me day, and ye stowaways are mere insects! Now, why don’t ye all shut yer gobs and listen to reason? If ye don’t want to follow me orders, ye can walk the plank! But if ye do decide to join… well, there’s treasure and glory to be had! Well, maybe. Most of that treasure be mine! Anyways, the choice is yers, my little equine friends.”

“Alright, listen up.” Sunset spoke up. “Captain, did you just say that you were about to pillage a nearby locale? It wouldn’t happen to be… Everfree Island, would it?”

“Aye… maybe… what’s it to ye!?” Timber pointed his sword at Sunset.

“Well, we were initially heading to Everfree Island ourselves for a little vacation.” Sunset replied, before winking to Twilight. “We’ve never seen the luxurious shores, so we decided to come out, only to have a little accident ruin our ship. But if you’re in need of a bit of help, we could always strike a deal. We’re not too busy, and we’ve always wanted to see what all the fuss is about. So, what do you say? We help you, and you help us get there?”

“Yargh!” Timber exclaimed in disbelief. “I’d believe ye to be a spinoff character of a novel, before being convinced that ye’d go to such a dangerous locale for vacation! I should make ye walk the plank for lyin’ to ye captain!”

“Really, we just wanted to see the island.” Twilight vouched for Sunset’s claim. “We heard there were lots of ruins and stuff to explore, and it just seemed like a good place for tourists. Our ship got wrecked in an unfortunate storm, so that’s why we needed rescue. Surely, you understand?”

“I certainly can’t understand, especially since you still haven’t fulfilled your promise to make me those waffles!” Rogue’s eye twitched.

“Yeah, and just who would believe a princess would put herself in danger on a trip for something as silly as a mere vacation?” Biff added. “You’re clearly wanting to go there for a bigger purpose!”

“You ponies either come clean now, or we’ll drop you all in a nearby whirlpool and watch you drown!” Rogue threatened. “Especially your rainbow-maned friend there!”

“Ye scoundrels have one last chance to confess, ye hear!?” Timber stomped his hoof on the boat. “Or would ye rather live in Gravy Bones’ locker for the rest of ye life!?”

Although feeling as if her crew had the capabilities of taking on these pirates, the princess still felt that it wasn’t a good idea to gamble their lives, especially without their magic. Twilight got the impression that these ponies were a legitimate threat to them, and that they wouldn’t play around with the idea of throwing her entire overboard and letting them suffer a watery grave. As risky as it seemed to come clean about why they were really going to the island, it felt like the lesser risk to take, since she knew her own crew was technically on a treasure hunt themselves. Not wanting to say something foolish that could potentially jeopardize her friends, the princess sighed and began confessing.

“All right, we’re on a treasure hunt ourselves.” Twilight said. “We’re traveling there in the hopes of finding a rare artifact, known as the Dragonstone. If you would just… take us to Everfree Island, we’ll let you keep any other treasures you find yourself. Just please, spare us and give us a lift there, since we have no ship anymore.”

“Dragonstone, you say?” Timber began contemplating what to do with these ponies. “So, am I to understand that this is a negotiable statement? Ye stowaways will follow me orders in exchange for using me ship as a luxury cruise? I’ll expect ye to lend yer hooves to help around this vessel to pay off yer debt, understood?”

“Yes, whatever you say…” Twilight sighed. “We don’t have much of a choice, otherwise.”

“Twilight, what are you doing?” Rainbow began worrying. “Need I remind you that three of those stallions used to work for Dr. Caballeron, and how conniving they were? You’ve read the Daring Do books yourself, after all. I’ve got a bad feeling about this…”

“Well, if they’ll hold up their end of the bargain, as far as rescuing and bringing us to the island, we don’t have much to lose.” Twilight replied. “After all, it’s not the first time we’ve enlisted the help of some pirates. Remember when we encountered the Storm King?”

“They’re pirates though, Princess.” Flash warned. “We may be putting ourselves at risk by playing into their hooves.”

“I’m going to have to agree, Princess.” Lemon Zest nodded. “Number one rule on the open seas? Never bargain with a pirate, they’ll always try to swindle you to come out on top, no matter what.”

“Well, without magic out here, we’re going to have to take that risk.” Twilight said, determined. “Besides, they need us just as much as we need them.”

“A wise investment for you scallywag stowaways.” Timber nodded in approval, before pointing at Captain Zest. “But since I’m captain here, I hereby declare Miss Self-Proclaimed Captain here to be our cook! A mare like her be better suited to work in a kitchen than on a boat’s deck.”

“What!?” Lemon Zest growled. “I’ve been sailing boats for years, I’m not some… some useless cook!”

“Oh, please.” Timber rolled his eyes. “Ye can’t even sail on the open seas without losing yer ship! I don’t believe ye have much room to argue. I’d never hire a mare like ye to be on me crew, let alone a captain. Ye’d best be leavin’ that to a qualified stallion like me-self. Why do ye suppose I hired these expert stallions as me muscle?”

“You disrespectful, misogynistic pirate!” Lemon Zest slammed her hoof on the deck. “Anything a stallion can do, a mare can do just as well, if not better!”

“Yeah!” Rainbow stood her ground as well. “You have no idea just how capable we are, and how much we’ve accomplished in Equestria!”

“Spare me yer dramatics, missy!” Timber gave a sharp look toward Rainbow and Captain Zest. “I’ll not have ye talkin’ to me like that aboard me ship, not if ye expect to live out this voyage alive. Now, do as I say, and shut yer trap before I shut it for ye!”

“You heard the boss!” Rogue grinned. “Now how about you make yourself useful and head on into the kitchen, Captain Cuisine? I still expect those waffles your little princess friend there promised, so chop chop!”

Lemon Zest turned around and gave Twilight a dirty look, before reluctantly trotting toward the ship’s kitchen.

“Sorry, Captain…” Twilight sighed, knowing that her lack of preparation from this trip had now resulted in her entire crew being forced to be at the mercy of these pirates.

“And as for the rest of ye landlubbers, there’s a lot of work that needs to be done below the deck.” Timber pointed past the starboard, before turning around to address Twilight and Rainbow. “We’ve got a cabin below deck with a cot and some supplies ye can use. Get settled in and start cleanin’ down there. It’s a mare’s job after all.”

Twilight and Rainbow reluctantly followed the pirate captain’s demands and began trotting downstairs, though it was primarily Rainbow who kept glaring at the stallion, still aghast by his misogynistic remarks. Timber then turned his attention to Flash and Sunset, before thinking of another assignment for them.

“Alright, now.” Timber addressed the remaining two ponies. “The servant boy, get up on the crow’s nest and keep an eye out for any other ships that might be in the area. As for the missy here? I want ye to help our cook friend down in the kitchen. She’s going to need some assistance in makin’ certain we’ve got enough rations for the journey. We should be arrivin’ at Everfree Island quite soon.”

“Fine, but with all due respect, I think it’s important for both of us to be up on deck to keep an eye out for potential threats.” Flash gave his own input. “It wouldn’t make sense for just one of us to be up there while the other is stuck down below. I’m beginning to question your qualifications on running a ship. Besides, if we’re coming up to the island soon, aren’t you afraid of this strange fog and these vines that are capable of bringing a vessel down?”

“Huh?” Timber raised an eyebrow. “No idea what yer blabberin’ about, what kind of fog be doin’ that? No, wait, I don’t care! Remember, ye stowaways are assigned to take care of me dirty work, so I suggest ye not waste any more time! Now get on with it, or ye know what happens.”

As Flash climbed up toward the crow’s nest, Sunset reluctantly trotted over to the kitchen, prepared to do as she was told. However, what Flash brought up suddenly raised a rather legitimate question in Sunset’s mind. How was it that the ship was much closer to the island now, but there was almost no sign of the same mysterious fog and vines her own crew had encountered earlier? It became even more puzzling after Captain Spruce implied he himself had no idea of it existing at all. She kept this in mind, but continued to focus on her current assignment.

Upon entering the kitchen, she saw Captain Zest already hard at work, chopping up vegetables and grumbling angrily. She came over to the captain’s side, trying to help her get through this tough situation. Being forced to work for a pirate captain was bad enough, but a misogynistic one, of all odds? Sunset brought some more ingredients out of the cupboards, before hearing her crew’s captain venting.

“I can’t believe him!” Lemon Zest began stirring the curry. “Who does he think he is, treating us mares like that?”

“Well, Captain, we’re both in the same boat, so to speak.” Sunset acknowledged. “But I’m sure if we work together, we can make the best of it. My friends and I will find our artifact, and you’ll get to rescue your passengers and first mate.”

“I hope so too.” Lemon Zest sighed, before pointing at one of the bowls. “By the way, don’t eat this particular batch. It’s for those pirates, so I made sure to spit in it and make it extra spicy for them.”

“Gotcha.” Sunset nodded. “But while we’re here, you want to hear something strange?”

“What’s up?” Lemon Zest kept stirring, but looked at Sunset in curiosity.

“We’re much closer to the island than before, but for some reason, that mysterious fog that attacked our ship and took away our magic, it hasn’t come back.” Sunset observed. “Even stranger is… Captain Spruce claimed he had no idea of the fog existing in the first place. That tells me that either… those pirates took a different route from us, or…?”

“…or were THEY the ones who were responsible for the fog and attacking our ship in the first place?” Lemon Zest’s eyes widened. “Why else would the fog curse us and our ship, but not theirs?”

“I hadn’t considered that, but I suppose that’s definitely a possibility.” Sunset nodded. “Maybe a ploy from those pirates to scare away anypony else who’d attempt to reach the island, so they can hog the treasures all to themselves?”

“That would make perfect sense, actually.” Lemon Zest agreed. “And better yet, I bet that’s exactly what happened to Ragamuffin and the rest of my passengers. Oh… I just hope wherever they are now, they’re safe.”

“I’m sure we still have a chance to rescue them.” Sunset put a hoof on Captain Zest’s shoulder, trying to keep her positivity.