Magic Duel, part 1

[no_vampires_plz]

The date of the Saddle Arabian ambassadors' arrival is fast approaching. Twilight thinks she has her magic routine all figured out, but she has yet to practice it with the other participants yet. Which is why she's visiting Fluttershy today.

"Don't be scared, little friends," Fluttershy reassures the dozen or so mice, bunnies, squirrels, raccoons, and beavers sitting in a half-circle in front of her. "Twilight is wonderful with magic." She turns to give Twilight a threatening look. "Anything happens to them, Twilight, so help me--"

"Aww, don't worry, Fluttershy," interjects Spike, gently pushing the pegasus back. "Twilight's magic has gotten a lot better since she accidentally crushed me and Applejack with a giant snowball."

Twilight cringes a little. You're not helping, Spike.

"Of course she's good with magic. Twilight's great with magic. I guess I just don't want my little friends to be scared--ohhh, look how scared they are!"

(That would be "not scared at all." They all look eager to get started, while Fluttershy is trembling and sweating through her pelt.)

Twilight lays a reassuring hoof on her friend's shoulder. "I promise, Fluttershy, nothing bad will happen to them."

"I know," Fluttershy squeaks through clenched teeth.

"" (Watch on YouTube)

"Your magic has really improved since we came to Ponyville, Twilight," remarks Spike. "Princess Celestia's gonna love it!"

"Thanks, Spike. I have to be at my best when she arrives with the delegates from Saddle Arabia. I can't believe she's trusting me with the entertainment!"

Before Spike can respond, he's interrupted by Rainbow Dash arriving in her usual manner: at lightning speed and crashing into someone. Specifically, Twilight.

"Twilight! Come quick! It's an emergency!"

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[nponyc]

Upon reaching the town square, the unicorn, dragon, and two pegasi are greeted by the sight of... well, pretty much the entire population of Ponyville gathered in front of Town Hall. They seem to be watching the robed figure standing in front of the building, but it's not clear why.

At least, not until the figure shoots a blast of blood-red light that suddenly clothes Rarity in a hideous brown-green-and-orange-striped dress.

"You beast! This shade of brown should only be used for accents!" Rarity swoons, falling onto Apple Jack's back.

Pinkie helps see the two of them off. "C'mon, Apple Jack, we've gotta get her in a nice, soothing pink, stat!"