#before I liked Dash and AJ; but this makes more sense in my mind

[scarlet-wish-draws]

Applejack,, and the GODESS she pulled by being silly

[applejackofalltrades]

Why Do I Like AppleDash So Much?

Literally nobody has ever asked me this but I'm going to answer this question anyway.

Intro: How I Got Into My Little Pony

Imma be real. The reason I started watching the show is because some of my old Twitter mutuals were interacting with posts about the Friendship Is Magic 10th anniversary. Some of them were talking about Rarijack and how it was a good ship, and others were discussing the implied canonicity of Appledash.

I had, at the time, just finished catching up on The Owl House that had recently been in the process of finishing up season one or had just gone into hiatus (can't remember which) and I was losing interest in my old hyperfixations fast.

See, I do this thing where I get really REALLY invested in a show and then as soon as it ends or as soon as I absorb every bit of media in it, I lose some of the interest or it fades. I don't usually lose full interest. For example, I still love She-Ra (my last big fandom) and I'm obviously still invested in The Owl House, but ever since both of those shows ended/stalled, I was desperately needing something to distract me from the trials and tribulations of my will to live that my daily life often forced upon me.

As you can guess, ponies was my solution.

I went into the show with a Rarijack mindset, but knowing that Appledash existed. I guess my mutuals just really liked Rarijack. I decided to give season one a chance. Actually, I felt quite silly for even deciding to watch the show. You see, back in 2018, I was still quite... trivial about watching anything that was seen as "girly". I didn't really have any problems with watching cartoons (ie. V*ltron, Steven Universe, Avatar, Pokemon etc.) but it was the fact that a show was "girly" that made me iffy. I had a very fragile masculinity, okay?

Anyway, so I actually was really afraid to watch She-Ra, even though the teaser images and trailer looked good. But I did and I decided that even "girly" shows could be good and that I was silly.

But, oh boy, cringe culture really messed with me. In mid/late 2020, I was ashamed to watch My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. I said I'd watch one season just so I could laugh at it. I wanted to watch it as a joke, and who knows, maybe I found a guilty pleasure to watch while I waited for The Owl House to come back?

I loaded up Netflix and I hit play. Instantly, I was cringing at myself. Can you blame me? Early season MLP was obviously meant for kids. Not that it was immature or bad, but it was definitely a kid's show, especially considering the iconic storybook opening of episode one.

I watched the episodes, but they mostly were just background noise as I did other things. I remember watching them, but I was indifferent, although frustrated that I found myself chuckling at a few of the jokes and quips. I wasn't that invested, though. I thought Twilight was boring, Rarity obnoxious, Pinkie annoying, Fluttershy frustrating, and Rainbow Dash infuriating. I didn't really mind Applejack, I mostly kinda just thought she was the best one. (Nothing's changed, eh?)

And then....

Fall Weather Friends

Season One Episode Thirteen rolled around.

It starts (as y'all know) with Rainbow Dash and Applejack throwing horseshoes.

I don't know why, but this caught my attention. Of course, being only a few episodes after Look Before You Sleep, I had Rarijack on the mind. But I did think that Applejack and Rainbow Dash were probably good friends and would make for an interesting pairing, and a more interesting episode given their similarities, but also their differences.

I found myself fully watching this episode, and I dare say, it's the episode that dragged me fully into the show.

Maybe it's because I see myself in both of them in a way. Maybe that's why I connect so much with the pair, but them having an episode together? That was really good for me. I wasn't in the best state of mind, and something about seeing two characters that were in some ways reminiscent of myself interact and argue and have an endearing episode together made me smile.

It was then that I discovered the simple amazingness of AppleDash.

I mean, who doesn't love obnoxious, competitive girlfriends that are both prideful and headstrong?

I know I love it.

Anyway, so at that point, my mind kinda just clicked and I decided that my OTP was AppleDash. However, poly rights and Applejack has two front hooves *cough* Rarijackdash *cough*

But yeah so that's how I got into AppleDash. Fall Weather Friends, which was kinda the episode that made me love MLP.

How That Progressed

Well, obviously, I still love that ship I mean I live for it. If I could have any one single ship it'd be them. It just kept getting better and better as the show progressed, I mean their dynamic is great whether you want to see it platonically or romantically. They have a lot in common right off the bat (example, they are both incredibly stubborn, though AJ would take the cake for that) and seem to be close (I mean right from episode one they appear to already have a pre-established friendship), but they're also different. Applejack is a hard worker all of the time with anything she does, while Dash tends to be lazy but can be extremely driven when she is motivated (for example, when she wants to achieve her Wonderbolts dream). Applejack is immensely caring and family-oriented and does things for the good of everypony, while Rainbow Dash can be kind of a jerk and not mindful of her actions when she's wrapped up in the stuff she's doing for herself (not to say she isn't caring, but she tends to be kind of an ass, even to Fluttershy sometimes).

Their growth was immensely fun to watch and as time went on, they shared more and more screentime together. Even if it's not an episode that revolves around them, whenever one of them is in frame, most of the time the other is close by, and they often stand next to each other.

Now, in terms of why they work in the show's canon (in my opinion, either romantically or platonically, they do make a great pairing):

They are both competitive and enjoy competing with each other, though they know (especially after FWF when they've taken it too far)

They watch out for each other (AJ often holds Rainbow Dash back when she's about to rush into danger, especially in early seasons, and Dash always lifts AJ out of danger first [the two examples I can think of off the top of my head are in Best Gift Ever and My Little Pony: The Movie])

Their personalities even each other out. (AJ is a lot more calm than RD, and while they can both get worked up, Applejack is usually the calm one)

Their colour schemes are literally complementary. (AJ's coat is orange while Rainbow's is blue. AJ's eyes are green while RD's are pink/red).

They share a lot of cute moments. (You can just look these up)

THEY'RE HECCING CUTE.

AND FINALLY

I mean fuck, the finale. They're literally canon, you cannot tell me otherwise. It was absolutely intended and you cannot prove otherwise. (read the script notes l o l "we actually could do sort of a subtle wink to the idea that they are now a couple???" < RE Appledash). They live together, they have domestic arguments about chores, they are always giving each other fond looks throughout the episode, always standing next to or near each other, and well we all know Rainbow's iconic hoof on AJ's head in the last shot of the show.

Ashleigh Ball really was the OG shipper and fuck it, she was right. We all know they are in love, she knows they are in love. The only reason they couldn't explicitly state it in the show is probably bc Hasbro would have been against that at the time (I mean, Lyrabon had to be very subtle but hey we gottem).

Oh and, I know this isn't exactly canon canon, but it is an official game: The My Little Pony Magic Princess app. Future AJ and RD's descriptions allude to them being together.

You could negate this and say that this is just them being friends but I mean... come on. Come on. Sweet Apple Acres is Apple family land, and the only people who live there as of The Last Problem are Apples. (AJ, Sugar Belle and Big Mac and their foal, and you guessed it... Rainbow Dash).

You cannot tell me that they aren't canon. You'd really have to be grasping at straws because all the signs are there. They had build up, development, and it just makes sense.

If you don't think it makes sense... did we watch the same show??? It absolutely makes sense.

Anyway, AppleDash is canon. :)

[a-crash-in-time-collection]

Chapter 6: What Was Left Behind

Snatcher felt his form began to shake as he turned the corner from the stairs, glancing into the dark hallway. He still remember back when he used to walk through these halls, talking with the servants or the former love of his life. Newspapers now littered these halls, black writing all across them. "Happily Ever After" "Princess" "Queen" and "Prince" were a few words he was able to point out.

The small footprints seemed to be heading straight to where the attic should be. That was good, he didn't want to be here trying to chase down who made them. Still, who in their right mind would willingly walk into this place. He did his best to ignore the faint, ice chilling laughter he could hear from under him, going through into the room on his left. Just find out who it is, and get out.

More newspapers and black writing filled the walls as he slowly floated through the rooms, the only different thing he saw being a large bit of blue and green near some switches. He just ignored it, focusing on getting to the attic and getting out. He floated over to the attic door... only to see it was locked. There wasn't a key nearby... how the person got past was beyond him. Looks like he was going to need a key...

He sighed as he floated to the room behind him. Knowing Vanessa, she likely kept the key high up, outside the reach of a normal person- he let out a shout as he saw the red eye staring at him. He braced himself for the icy chill, but nothing happened. He slowly took a second look, finding it to be a painting of sorts. Underneath were some words, a few were hard to read, but he did his best to make it out.

"I" Bad hand writing "it was" More poor handwriting. "I just didn't want you to get" He couldn't tell if the next word was 'unbound' or 'sunburned'. He didn't know which he would consider more worrying. "All I asked was for you to never leave this house."

How did he not see the signs sooner? Expecting him to never leave the house? Didn't she know that would have killed him sooner?

He sighed slightly, floating into the room he first came in from, glancing to his right. He found himself glancing up after catching the words 'Prince AJ' on a random newspaper, and paused slightly. Another sentence was written above him, although he was half tempted to believe they were carved into the wall itself. Ice witch had the claws to do so now, after all. He floated up to get a better look.

"My prince, I'm sorry what happened to your house. If'' Vannessa decided that was the perfect place to write another 'Happily Ever After' message, make those words impossible to read. "it then neither will I."

"My house?" He asked himself, tilting his head to the side slightly. He lived in the manor since he was a child... right? His memory of life was fuzzy. He shook his head, he wasn't here to dwell on the past. He floated back into the main hallway, heading into the door across from a TV on a dresser. This would be a great place to surprise some poor soul...

He shook his head slightly. Many died in this place, including himself. The last thing he should be thinking of trying to get the jump on someone. He floated into the room, then headed straight to the room across from there. He glanced to his left, seeing two bookcases full of books on the wall. The key was up there, out of any normal humans' reach. Luckily, being dead meant he could just grab it even if he was short.

He grabbed the key, and floated into the door closest to where he currently was. The third floor was supposed to have more in it... right. He was pretty sure his bedroom was up here, at least. With how empty it was, you assumed this would be where she kept most of her frozen victims, but he had yet to see one. He floated to the door that was the exit to that room, glancing up. Another message, this one perfectly clear.

"The prince loves the moon so much. MAYBE HE SHOULD MARRY IT! THEN MAYBE HE CAN GIVE ME MORE ATTENTION!"

He stared silently for a brief moment. The entitlement of this woman... he crossed his arms with a huff. "Well maybe I should have." He stated, shaking his head as he headed back to the attic door. Bacon, the freaking moon!? At this point she likely would have ordered the death of his own family just because he also happens to love them!

He sighed slightly, looking down at the ground as he put the key in the lock, which allowed him to remove said lock. He floated up the stairs silently. He still remembers when they first met when they were young. She was so much sweeter back then... more true to her word. She seemed more fit to rule a kingdom back then.

As soon as he entered the attic, a calming aura greeted him. Like this was the safest place in the whole building. Like it wasn't possible for that demon to get to him... He soon spotted the footsteps that lead him here, coming from a hole in the nearby wall. They kept marking the floor, until they stopped. Stopped in front of the chest in the middle of the room. He glanced too it, slowly floating over.

"Clever hiding place..." He commented to himself. The chest didn't move. He couldn't even here breathing. Maybe whoever it was died while hiding? It would be a shame, do so well avoiding a chilling fate only to die from something as simple as a panic attack. Made him chuckle at the idea.

He heard something. It was barely above a whisper, but he heard it. It sounded like a whimper, or something similar. It had to be the person, or thing in the chest. Oddly enough, that small whimper sounded familiar. He couldn’t place where... "Hey, miss ice witch is downstairs. It's just the two of us. No reason to be hiding away from me." He tried sounding friendly. Maybe he could lure this soul into giving said soul to him later.

"Y-You won't hurt me?" The voice made him on guard. It sounded so... innocent. So familiar. Again, he couldn't place where. It was small... weak. Like it was scared to make any sound.

"Of course not!" Snatcher waved a dismissing hand. He jolted slightly when he heard a creek in the background, afraid he may have just alerted his ex to where he was. But a glance behind showed no one was there... Although it did remind him of the creepy choice in a paint job. Yes, the tale of Moonjumper was a big thing in Subcon, but... he shook his head, giving a reassuring smile to the chest. "Why would I hurt you?"

"I-I saw you, taking some of the icey people away a bit ago. I-I thought you were working with evil lady.." The voice was still shaky, but it seemed to calm down. He could see movement in the chest lid, a little huff as the figure inside opened it slowly. Snatcher watched in curiosity.

Two bright yellow eyes were the first thing he noticed, staring at him in a bit of worry. They were partly hidden behind purple- no, black, no both hair? It was pure black, or close to it, but it glowed purple near the edge. The same could be said for the edges of her face, hands, sleeves, cape, and hat. Her hair also features small little swirls. Her mouth could be clearly seen as one yellow glowing line.

Snatcher didn't know what to make of the sight. This shadow, she looked exactly like Hattie back when she first stepped foot in the forest! Only she looked exactly like him at the same time. The tears dripping down her face where even the same yellow his own eyes would be. Not that he ever cried to find out about that fact.

"What... but how." The child tilted her head in confusion at his words. Snatcher was trying to rack his brain about the whole thing. The only things that ever looked close to this was when he turned into copies of the kiddo to throw her off when they fought. "What's your name? How did you get here? Why are you..."

"I don't know..." The shadow copy looked down slightly, messing with her hands slightly. Similar to what he did whenever he was reminded of those death wishes. Or when he was hiding something in general. "I just... woke up here one day. I've been hiding from misses bad queen ever since..." She seemed to cuddle herself at the thought of the lady.

Snatcher tried to think of how something like this could be possible. She just woke up here one day and just been stuck here? It didn't make any sense. Unless the Hat Girl downstairs was a clone and the real one died by Vanessa's hands, a ghostly version of her should be impossible. A ghostly version that had to run and hide all it's life... like a puppet in Vanessa's show. "Is there... any place or thing you know outside of here?"

The child shocked her head slightly. "No... The only thing I've ever known from the outside is... you." She glanced at his confused expression. "I've seen you about.. this many times before." She held out her hand, showing two up on one and all five up on the other. "Well.. actually this counts... so.." She lifted another finger.

"My yearly trips to the manor..." He didn't notice he picked up the child until she made a small noise of confusion or fright. His body just sort of.. did it on his own. "Seven times... The exact amount of times since she was last here..." He looked down at the child, who was confused by his words. He tried to think of what could have happened to create such a small, adorable...

He recalled watching Hat Kid fight that annoying toilet. Many would assumed he lied about her soul being inside to make her more willing to do the dirty work. But the soul actually did get stuck inside. Still, he wasn't going to deal with it himself. He recalled seeing a faint bit of purple and yellow, like her soul, dash away at one part. He assumed it was a trick of his eyes because the toilet was still bouncing around....

"Are you ok, Mister Noodle?" The young voice, just like the girl's but with a faint echo called up to him. He glanced down at her, and somehow he knew there was sorrow in his eyes. This soul, or a piece of one, has never known anything outside of this prison. That was a fate he wished on no one.

"Oh, I'm fine! It's you I was worried about." He covered his mouth slightly. Did this piece of a soul have some sort of ability? He was just... drawn to her so fast. He slowly removed his hand, giving her a soft smile. "Seven years... I left you here so long..."

"Please don't feel bad!" She was waving her hands in the air, as if to enfenzise her point. "It's my fault, really. I always hid when I saw you... you were a bit scary to me... I didn't want to risk you being bad like her..." She held her head down in shame, garbing her cape and wrapping it around her slightly. It was more pinkest near the bottom, and was torn with holes... was it originally like this or did something happen...

Snatcher and the shadowy child both jolted slightly. There was the sound of some sort of crash downstairs... Snatcher nearly forgot about Hat Girl and Platinum. He needed to go down there and get those two out... maybe the parents as well if they weren't ice statues by now. "Well, I'm not making the same mistake again..." He glanced down at her. "I can take you away from here, would you like that?"

The child let out a gasp in surprise, and a bit of joy. "R-Really, you mean it?" her mouth formed a smile, showing off two little fangs. Just like his own... his own... "I-I would love that! I-I wanna be away from the evil queen.." She then frowned. "But.. The door is locked..."

Snatcher let out a chuckle at that. "She used all the locks she has for doors inside of this place, the fool. It's just some snow blocking the front door. All I have to do is give it a shove and we're home free!" He looked back down at her, seeing she had grabbed a small bit of his mane-thing, as if exsaming it, then reaching for her own neck. "A little funny how we both look so similar, huh kiddo?"

"Kiddo?" The child repeated, pointing to herself slightly. She seemed to be confused by a lot, to which he couldn't blame her. All Vanessa likely did was have whiney fits or shout at her prey. Likely didn't teach the kid a lot. "My name is kiddo?"

Snatcher glanced at her silently for a moment, taking in her statement.

"Did I... say something wrong?" The small shadow asked, tilting her head to the side. She didn't show anymore sights of fear, which was good in his eyes. She was just... naturally confused. He couldn't blame her. If their roles were reversed, he probably would be asking the same questions the little shadow kid was asking. Little... Shadow Kid. "Hey, are you alright? You were... staring blankly for a few moments there."

Snatcher looked down at her with a smile. "I'm fine, Shadow Kid... do you like that name? I think it fits you." He couldn't help but poke at her nose slightly, the ghost child letting out a giggle when he did so.

"Shadow Kid... it's perfect!" The child- Shadow Kid bounces in his arms slightly. She looked up at him with a toothy smile. He could see hope in her eyes, likely the first time they ever had it. She held onto him as he began to float to the exit for the room. "What's your name, mister noodle man?"

"Well, I have many names from the locals around these parts." Snatcher said, a bit of a smug tone in his voice. He had to be quiet though, as he floated back into the third floor, knowing Vanessa could very well be nearby. And the last thing he wanted was to get them both caught when he just promised the young girl freedom. "But the name I personally go by is, The Snatcher. I'm basically the true ruler of subcon." He chuckled at the child's awe.

-------

Platinum held his breath, although he didn't need to breath in the first place, as he pushed himself into the corner. The red and black Elsa being slowly walked down the stairs passed him, a growl in her voice. Lighting stuck outside as he held back a shout, running up the stairs as soon as it was safe. "Hattie!" He whispered-shouted, hoping his sister was alright.

And fell to his knees at the sight. Near a dresser in the hallway stood an ice sculpture. One who bore a familiar ponytail. Her face seemed to be gone, ice covering all it's details. "No...NONO!" Oil tears fell down his face as he raced to the being that was once his sister. She was.. she was dead. Dead and it was his fault because he screamed at the lighting-

There was a tiny crack sound, and then ice flew off the girl's body. She let out a slight gasp as she caught some air, the tip of the nightcap swaying side to side faintly. "It's been too long since I last used an ice hat." She shrugged and looked at her brother, who still had some tears going down his face. "What do you think? Pretty neat."

"I thought you died!" Platinum hissed, trying to stay as quiet as he could as to not alert that creature back up here. He couldn't feel angry from much longer, because another crash of light from outside had him pulling Hat Girl into a hug, shaking slightly. "P-Please don't scare me like that again." He begged, feeling a few gentle pat on his back before she stepped away. "We need to get our Dads, find Snatcher, and get out now."

"You're right. But we need to be careful when we go to leave." With a snap of her fingers, her backpack appeared. She slung it over her shoulder, placing the cap inside once it was open. She then pulled out her mask and headband, placing them on her head gently.

He tilted his head slightly, letting out a brfit giggle. "You look a little funny in that." He stated, Hat Girl rolling her eyes at the statement. The two quietly stepped into the bedroom. She noticed the Mafia Goon was still frozen on the floor, but the closet was back up. Platinum seemed to take note of the closet too, walking over.

She walked behind him, trying to stay quiet. She knew it was likely safe, but she didn't want to risk Vanessa having set up some sort of trap inside it. "Stay behind me." She whispered, pushing her brother back behind her. She could faintly hear something within now that she was closer. With a histiate breath, she swung open the closet door.

Two quick shouts met their ears, and a laser blaster was pointed at them. She looked at the two men, who allowed themselves quick breaths of relief, the cybrog's blaster turning back into a normal hand. "Hattie! Platinum! Oh that was you we heard! What are you doing here?" Reginald asked, hopping out of the closet and hugging the two. Right Hand Man hopped out beside him, although he simply glanced at them.

"Looking for you, clearly!" Platinum stated.

"Ya s'ouldn't 'ave come. We would 'ave gotten ourselves out sooner or later." Right Hand Man stated, shaking his head slightly. Although he and Reginald glanced at each other faintly. The two had faintly heard the kids voices, and knew they had to act sooner or later. They kept fighting about what would be the best way. Mostly because all of the ideas involved sacrificing themselves. Great minds think alike, the saying goes.

"You're right... but you're not hurt, right?" Hat Girl asked, beginning to take a closer look in worry. That's when she saw the crystal-like blue over the cybernetic side of RHM's face. "Papa, your eye! What happened?!" She asked.

Right Hand Man sighed, holding his lover's hand as the group began to leave the room. "Well, we just came out of t'at beer pool place, talkin' about t'e work it will take to drain it out, w'en t'at red mist demon appeared. I tried firin' my laser eye at it, but it just touc' t'e blast 'nd turned t'e laser to ice!" He threw his hands in the air in frustration. "Luckily it only got to my eye before I broke free, t'en we 'id in t'e closet."

"Out of all the places, why the closet?" Platinum asked, a faint smug look on his face. The cyborg rolled his only visible eye.

"There you two... four are" Snatcher called, floating over to the group as they got to the stairs. Hat Girl noticed he seemed to have something close to him, but couldn't make out exactly what it was right now. "Ohh, so your parents aren't human popsicles. Well, isn't that great news!" He let out a chuckle, before noting the glare from the cyborg. "What?"

"Well, at least you brought someone with you..." Reginald sighed, offering the ghost a faint smile, and said ghost simply shrugged. As soon as they stepped onto the first floor, the group paused, they didn't see her, but they knew Vanessa was nearby. They quickly raced under a nearby table as Vanessa entered the hall.

"What are we going to do?" Platinum asked, glancing at where the front door was. "We need to get there, but she'll get us." He glanced back at Hat Girl, who seemed to glance at her hand. She made a small tap at the tips of her fingers, and with a faint green glow, a small stack of cash magically appeared in her hand. "Wait, how did you-" He would have let out a yelp as the thunder came, but Right Hand Man was quick to cover his mouth.

"Get ready to run... or float in Snatcher's case." She said, she glanced at the floor brefitly, trying to find a place to throw the cash. That's when she noticed something... odd. Two shadows were coming from the queen's being. One was of the monster she had become, the second being a reflection of her human self... She shook her head, she couldn't let that distract her. She threw the cash into the kitchen, it blowing up upon impact with the floor.

"AH HA! I FOUND YOU~" Vanessa called, walking past the table they were under, into the kitchen.

"Quick." Right Hand Man whispered, racing to where the front door was. The group falling, Snatcher placing something... someone? He placed whatever on his back as he slammed his arms into the doors, bursting them open. They could hear a growl from behind them. "Run!" He held Reginald's hand, as they began to run down the path they came. They could all hear footsteps behind, the queen's rage was in the air.

"Stay back!" Hat Girl called, garbing her umbrella as they passed the dweller bell, slamming it once she passed by.

Vanessa reached out to freeze them all where they were standing, as a warning to any more cockroaches that dared to go into her home. But it simply slammed agesist that cursed purple wall. She let out a shrike of rage. "I'll get you! No one comes across my path, tries to take it away, and leaves alive!" With a huff, she began to return to her home.

The group was silent, all staring at the purple wall in worry the Queen would somehow break through. It was only after a full minute of silence did they allow themselves to truly relax. They all headed to the bridge, Snatcher picking up the teens as he floated across while Right Hand Man held his Husband close as he did the same. Hat Girl sat on the ground, allowing herself to catch her breath, looking at the snow filled land.

"I'm never going back there again." She stated, and hoped this time it was true. She then glanced over at her parents, the ones who took her in, the ones she just put in danger. "I'm sorry. I should have told you about the manor. I should have... It's..."

"No, before you say it's yer fault, it's not." Right Hand Man said, kneeling next to her and placing a hand on her shoulder, brown eye staring into her sky blue ones. "S'ould've asked ya about t'e place first, I was just in a rush to get some sort of s'elter I didn't t'ink too." he looked at her, giving her a soft smile. "T'e cold wasn't helpin' my thought process either, at the time."

"But it isn't your job to look into the details." Reginald sighed, walking up to them. "I should have known something was off."

"And I guess I shouldn't have screamed when the lightning flashed. But I had every right to be afraid!" Platinum stated, stopping a foot ageist the ground as he pointed to the others, who just gave him a confused look. He was silent for a moment, before sighing. "I.. Thought we were all blaming each other so I decided to join." He looked back at them, smiling as he heard Hat Girl chuckle.

"Well... I'm just glad we're out..."

"Out... Out!" Shadow Kid called happily, hoping off the phantom's back as she fell on the floor. The group glanced over at the sound of the young voice, and found themselves staring in shock at the young girl. She spun around in a slight circle, smiling brightly. "I'm out! It's so pretty being out! Ooo~, what's that loopy thing!"

"W'ot in t'e-" Right Hand Man stated, causing the shadow to glance over, then hide behind the phantom. Must be one of those excitable yet shy types. He glanced up at Hat Girl, hoping she could offer some sort of answer. But she was looking at the creature with the same confusion he had. He turned back to Snatcher, giving him a questioning glare. "Excuse me, g'ost. But can you explain w'y t'ere's a copy of Hattie?"

"Oh, it's quite simple. And please tone it down, you're scaring her." Snatcher said, giving the cyborg his own glare. "I believe she's a part of the kiddo's soul, broken off and taken its own form in the manor. Hat Girl must not have noticed she left it behind..." He picked the shadow child up.

"Well, ain't she the cutest little thing!" Hat Girl gasped, racing over to the purple figure. The child flinched at first, but then looked at the teen in curiosity. The two looked so similar, as to be expected considering they were two of the same soul. She even had the same type of clothing she would wear when traveling all over this planet. "Heya little one! I'm Hat Girl. You.. sorta came from me!"

"H-Hello... I'm Shadow Kid." Shadow Kid introduced herself, and Hat Girl couldn't help but let out an 'Awwww'.

"You're one of the most innocent things I've ever seen in my life." Reginald said, smiling as he walked over to the small group. He patted her on the top of her head, being careful not to knock off the hat, smiling at the giggles he got in return. "It's nice to finally get to meet you, Shadow Kid. Say.. how would you li-"

"No, Reg. The answer is no." Right Hand Man quickly stated, crossing his arms to show his point. Reginald let out a huff, while Hat Girl and Platinum both glanced at each other, shaking their heads. Shadow Kid tilted her head in confusion, as Snatcher held her close. "Platinum 'nd Hat Girl are enoug'. We talked about t'is, no more kids."

"But she's a part of Hattie's soul, so technically we would still only have two kids!" Reginald claimed defensively. Snatcher found himself warping his tail around where Shadow kid was, looking down at her slightly. He watched her garb his tail slightly, holding it close like it was some sort of blanket. She just seemed so lost about what they were talking about. "Besides, look at her! We can't just leave her all alone!"

"T'e answer is still no, Reg. We already had to deal wit' 'er chaos as a child, I'm not relivin' all t'at." Right Hand Man stated firmly.

"But Rightttyyy..." Reginald was just a kid asking for a puppy at this point. Platinum let out a slight chuckle as he watched. While it would be great to have a new sister, even he was able to see now wasn't the best time to be adopting someone. He found himself glancing over to where Snatcher was, seeing a thoughtful look in his eyes. "Where else would she have to go? We can't make her go back!"

"I could take her."

Reginald glanced over, a bit confused. "What?" He asked, tilting his head to the side. Right Hand Man gave the ghost a confused look, although there was a form of relief that could be seen in his visible eye. Hat Girl looked at them both, then smiled as she looked back at the two purple beings. "What do you mean by that?"

"I mean, she appears to be more ghost then living, breathing human." Snatcher said, waving his hand as if taking someone in wasn't a big deal. "She has stayed the same age for Seven years, after all. It would be best for her to be near creatures more like herself. Besides, look at her! She looks like a mini me in the shape of the kiddo!" He grinned slightly. "It only makes sense if I let her stay at my place."

"So... basically yer adopin' 'er?" Right Hand Man asked. He watched the ghost gain a bit of a blank face, processing his exact words. "Ye were basically sayin' ya were goin' to be 'er parental figure, after all."

"You're adopting me?" Shadow Kid asked, looking up at the Prince's ghost slightly. He looked down, processing could still be seen happening in his eyes. Then he gave her a soft smile, and nodded. She gave her own smile in response, nearly hoping out of his hands in joy. "Yay!" She clapped her hands slightly, before pausing and looking back up at him. "Wait, what does "adopin" mean." She was confused when the others giggled at her accent imitation.

"Well..." Snatcher let out a bit of a nerves laugh, rubbing the back of his head with his free hand as he tried to think of what to say. He never thought he would say these words to anyone. "Well, you see how Hattie has her two Dads?" He watched as Shadow Kid glanced over at the two man, Reginald waving slightly, before looking back at him. "Basically, me adopting you means I'll be your Dad. Or Papa or Pops, whatever you wanna call me."

Shadow Kid gasped in joy, hugging him. "My heart-'' Platinum called from the side, grabbing his chest.

Reginald gave a small smile to the two. "Well, I'm glad you two have each other now." He let out a sigh, then glanced at his daughter, who smiled brightly at him. "Well, I suppose we should be returning to the orbital station. The clan must be worried about us. And we need to get to work removing the ice from Righty's eye."

Snatcher glanced back at the cyborg, and had to hold back a laugh once he finally noticed the ice covered eye. "Well, I have to find a place for Shadow Kid to sleep anyway. Along with letting the village know of her arrival." He gave the small shadow a boop, watching her giggle, before he turned away from the group. "I'll see you later, Kiddo and Platinum! Preferably when I find a spell to turn the manor's walls into bacon!" with a laugh, he raced into the woods, gone from sight.

"See you!" Hat Girl called, waving her hand quickly. She heard a sigh, and Reginald passed her as the group began their trip back to the orbital station. She walked up to her Dads, a bit heistaite. "So… you guys aren't grounding us right? You guys aren't mad, right?"

"I'm too tired to really be mad." Reginald stated honselty, wrapping an arm around his lover's shoulder. He glanced at the two. "I won't ground you, since we may not have gotten out of it wasn't for you, if we're being honest."

The two teens looked at each other, giving each other a high five with a chuckle. "But," Right Hand Man's stern tone cut them off, bringing their attention to him. "Know t’at unless we find ourselves in a deat’ trap again, you doin’ anythin’ that could put you in ‘arm’s way again will result in groundin’. Is t’at clear?" He watched the two nod at his words, and only then he allowed himself to relax.

"I still wish we could have kept Shadow Kid..." Reginald sighed, as Hat Girl let out a small giggle at his words. She found herself staring into the woods of Subcon, a smile on her face.

Vanessa was the worst, so that meant the worst had to be behind them. Right?

[venusinflleurs]

I love Appledash. I love music.

I wanted to show you guys few songs that in someway remind me of Appledash. But only few. If I tried to type down every song then I'd rather not to because it would've took A LOT of time.

1. She by Dodie

Am I allowed to look at her like that

Could it be wrong when she's just so nice to look at

And she smells like lemongrass and sleep

She tastes like apple juice and peach

I can totally see Rainbow Dash singing, or actually thinking, like that about Applejack. It even says apple juice which totally fits.

Cause she tastes like birthday cake, and storytime, and fall

But to her I taste of nothing at all

We know how AJ loves to talk about her family, storytime, and if you give each Mane 6 character a season, we ALL would associate AJ with fall. And we also know how RD has self esteem issues (which she hates to show). Yup, this song describes how RD feels about AJ. It's their song.

2. Cinnamon Girl by Lana Del Rey

It's not really the lyrics of the song, it's more like the title. Personally, when I think of Applejack I also think of apples and cinnamon. And I think a lot of people do too.

Also these lyrics

You try to push me out

But I just find my way back in

Have you guys noticed how RD is very touch-y with AJ? And AJ is always like 😳. Imagine they both have feelings for each other and AJ pushes RD away because she can't let those "silly feelings" distract her.

3. Boyish by Japanese Breakfast

At first I was gonna say how the title itself only reminds me of Appledash because they're both boyish and you can imagine either of them to sing this about the other, but then I read the lyrics and imagined an AU where RD likes AJ, but AJ likes Rarity (or RD just THINKS that AJ likes Rarity, but in reality she doesn't) because of these lyrics:

I can't get you off my mind, I can't get you off in general

So here we are, we're just two losers

I want you and you want something more beautiful

4. Flaming Hot Cheetos by Clairo

Now I don't really know how to describe why this song reminds me of Appledash, Imma just drop these lines:

You're telling me I'm silly, It's no fun in the old days

I'm such a romantic, I never remember how things really happen

I guess you're attractive, or something

Again, I imagine RD saying this.

I really need to find a song that doesn't make me think of hopeless romantic Rainbow Dash oh my god..

I need hopeless romantic Applejack >:(

Ok back to the point..

I wanna be the one you think about at night

And I wanna be the one that you would put up a fight for

Shout Out to the people who think RD and AJ would only fight if they were in a relationship.. (spoiler alert, they are girlfriends >:)))

5. Off to the races by Lana Del Rey

The lyrics have absolutely nothing to do with Appledash, believe me.

But the title...

The title....

Fall weather friends....

Also that one Appledash fanfic called Off to the races :D

6. Big Eyes by Lana Del Rey

Lana is my all time favorite artist so don't be annoyed at me for using her 3 times already :D

With your big eyes

And your big lies

With your big eyes

And your big lies

Lies. Element of honesty.

Imagine this as break up scenario :D

Yup, I love suffering.

I saw you creeping around the garden; what are you hiding?

I beg your pardon, don't tell me "nothing"

I used to think that I could trust you

I was your woman

THE LAST ROUNDUP. THESE LYRICS ARE LITERALLY THIS EPISODE.

Is it me, was I wrong to have trusted you?

Did I see what I wanted, what wasn't true?

Was I wrong to go on like a little fool?

It's amazing what women in love will do

What would women in love do? Make their friends ride a train to find your gf? yea, thought so.

7. Killing me to love you by Vancouver Sleep Clinic

The whole song is Appledash material. I could put the whole song here but instead I'll show you the lines that REALLY remind me of Appledash.

I'm bringing you home

It’s been so long

The way that actually happened. Rainbow Dash really bringed Applejack home with her sonic rainboom.

And now you’re stronger than yourself

I’m fighting for you

I’m hiding for you

But it’s killing me to love you

Yea, Applejack is strong. Stronger than when she was a filly. I have no idea how else to describe what I want to say but this song really screams Appledash.

8. Crush by Cigarettes after sex

Out of all the songs I named and I'm going to name, this is the one that reminds me of Appledash the least. But this line:

Hold you here, my loveliest friend

Now this is a headcanon so you guys won't agree with me, but I headcanon (actually it's one of my many headcanons on how they got together) that before AJ and RD made things official, they had their own type of romance going on, and they loved each other, they just didn't call themself a couple because both thought that what they had is just Friends with benefits (which they hated because they wanted more, but they thought the other didn't care about them like that and they kept their feelings inside yadadada. Yup, just a headcanon)

9. Meant to stay hid by SYML

The title. The lyrics.

The last roundup.

Literally.

Again, I would put the whole song here but I'll just show you guys the lines that really scream Appledash to me.

I wasn't built for this

My head can't make any damn sense of this so it sings

This is probably what RD thought on the way to Appleloosa when they were searching for Applejack. Proove me wrong I dare you.

If I wasn't so afraid

I'd shine a light up to space

Then my soul could be

Strong enough to see your face

One more day

One more day

JUST LOOK AT THIS. I DON'T EVEN HAVE TO EXPLAIN.

I found notes that you hid

Sharing secrets and fears that were meant to stay hid

Imagine in MLP Applejack kept a diary and RD found it and then she read about Applejack going to Appleloosa and why she stayed (that is before they went to find her)

Whew, that took me some time.

These are all in random order by the way.

Drop some songs that remind you guys of Appledash, I lowkey want to make a playlist :D

[glenncoco4]

War Zone

A/N: Apparently all it takes is a little Aly & Aj to get me in the zone! Chapter 5 coming at ya!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Present

The sunlight streams in from their bedroom window, bathing their bodies in golden rays as he traces the scar with his finger. The scar that brings back memories of the worst best day of his life. "I still remember it like it was yesterday."

Her arm that's around his waist, squeezes him tighter as the flashes of that day run through her mind. "You sure did time it perfectly."

"So not my fault."

Tilting her head, she brings her lips to the underside of his jaw. "I'm just playing with you, baby."

He shimmies down the bed so now they're face to face. She thinks he's going to stop but apparently he has other ideas when his lips find the 4 inch scar on abdomen, relishing thinking back to one of the closest calls that either one of them have had. "I'm so glad you're alive."

"I'm so glad you're alive." Tears threaten to fall from her eyes as she watches him nuzzle his nose against her skin, her fingers finding their way through his golden locks.

She knows they can't go down this path, because if she thought about how many times she could've never seen him again, to be doing what they're doing right now, she'd be an emotional wreck all day. "I wonder how many scars we have from the same ops?"

A grin spreads to his face as he trails kisses up her abdomen, between her breast, placing a kiss to each nipple before finally making his way up to her lips. He pulls back a fraction of an inch, his eyes almost a steel grey, desire so clearly shining through. "Only one way to find out."

XXXX

November 24, 2008

She slowly becomes aware as she's pulled out of her slumber by a ringing. Opening her eyes, they adjust to her surroundings as she rubs the corner of her eye. Once she realizes where the noise is coming from, she reaches out on the floor in search of the offending object. She presses the accept button but before she can say anything a very familiar voice hits her ear.

"I know it's 2 in the morning, but come outside."

He hangs up before she can even responds which sets off her warning signals. Her brow furrows in confusion, and she slowly comes out of her haze, immediately sensing something's off. Throwing back her blanket, the Chief Petty Officer throws her legs over the edge of her cot, slipping on her boats before she takes a few steps to the opening of her tent.

Once her eyes adjust to the darkness, a sliver of light from the camp's generator, illuminates his blonde locks. "Marty, what are you doing?"

He closes the distance as she walks towards him, her eyes swimming with concern."Listen, Kens. We don't get to see each other a lot and we're in different places in our lives-"

"You're doing this now? In the middle of the desert?" She bites her bottom lip, not sure if its her trying to control her anger or stop herself from crying, when she realizes what he's trying to say. The brunette can feel her heart slowly break, she thought he loved her because god knows she loves him. They were on the same page, wanted the same things.

"I have to."

"Why? You could've at least waited until-"

"Because I have to be with you.'

Kensi's eyes go wide as she watches his movements. Her heart begins to race as her boyfriend gets down on one knee, pulling a Twinkie out from behind his back. "I want to be wherever you are and when I can't be, I want to know that you'll be coming home to me. I may not be in the same place as you are in life right now, but I want to be. Chief Petty Officer, Kensi Marie Blye, will you marry me?"

"Oh, my god."

"What are you waiting for, boss?"

Kensi whips her head around to see her team standing outside their tents in anticipation before turning back to her boyfriend whose cocky grin is ever so present. Her eyes lock with his steel blue eyes, looking for any signs that he's joking but is met with a sureness she's never seen before."How would we make it work?"

His body relaxes at her question, because she's not saying no but trying to look for his assurance. "Baby, we've been making it work for the last 6 months."

"Don't you want to move back home? I love you, Marty. But I'm not ready to give up this life."

"Who's asking you too?"

"So you don't want to quit?"

"Of course not. I love my job and I know how much you love yours, but I'm not gonna let that stop me from being with you."

Her eyes stay on him. There's so many thing she wants to say to him right now. She's never felt about anyone else the way she feels about him. He's here fighting for them and he'll continue to do so for the rest of their days, this she knows. It may be hard and they may spend more time a part than together, but the one thing she knows for sure is that whatever time she has left on this planet she wants to spend with him."Yes."

"Yes?" His eyes go wide in excitement as he jumps up off the ground, wrapping his arms around her and picking her up as she bringing her lips to his.

"Way to go, Blye!"

She laughs against his lips at her team's subtle way of yelling across the camp in congratulations. They're both deliriously happy as so clearly evident as they stay in each other's embrace, lost in the moment, but their joy is soon dashed when the flashing ball of fire a few yards away from them sends pieces of shrapnel barreling their way.

XXXX

Present

He delicately runs his finger up and down her arm as they lay stated, curled up after their early morning celebration.

"12 years…that's a long time."

"Almost as long as high school."

Titling her head back from where it rests on his bare chest, she can't help the smile that crosses her face at the "seriousness" written in his eyes. "You're such an idiot."

He laughs, flipping them over so he's on top of her, his lips immediately finding her earlobe. "An idiot in love."

XXXX

November 26, 2008

"Blye, there's someone that wants to see you."

She feels the tears that threaten to spill in her eyes as she watches his battered body be rolled into her room. Concern swimming around in his own beautiful blue eyes.

The nurse rolls Marty to the edge of her bed, his hand immediately grabbing hers. His eyes shining with unshed tears."Hey, are you okay?"

"Why, what happened?" She does her best to keep a straight face but her grin gives her away. Expecting him to return her smile, she's surprised when tears begin to silently fall down his face. She cups his jaw, running her thumb across his cheek to wipe away his tears, her demeanor changing from playfulness to regret in an instant. "I'm sorry."

He knows she was just trying to lighten the mood but he can't get the images of her laying next to him with that large piece of metal sticking out of her side, bleeding out. Placing his hand over hers, he leans into her touch."I love you."

"I love you."

Their eyes stay locked for a few minutes as they take time to relish in the fact that they're still here, together. They survived. "I've been thinking about the last conversation we had and-"

"I get it."

Her brow furrows as she watches his shoulders deflate. "Get what?"

"It was in the heat of the moment. You need more time."

Realization strikes her, it's almost like their roles are reversed from the moments before the explosion. "Are you kidding, if anything I need less time."

"What do you mean?"

Before she can answer him there's a knock on the door. A grey haired man pokes his head, small smile on his face. "Kensi?

"Sergeant, you made it."

The photojournalist's brow furrows as the man in full dress blues steps into his girlfriend's room before turning back to her. "Kens, what's going on?"

"This is a Sergeant Massey, he's an old family friend."

He maneuvers his chair so that he's now facing the marine but his hand stays locked with hers. Extending his free hand, Marty offers to the older man. "It's a pleasure to meet you, sir."

The Master Sergeant takes his offered hand. "It's a pleasure to meet too, son." His attention turns from the blonde to the brunette, in question. "Are you ready?"

"Ready for what?" Marty's voice turns from confused to stern. "I hope you don't think you're going back into the field right now, because I will strap you to this bed myself if you think you are."

The Chief Petty Officer's heart warms at the assertiveness in her fiancé's voice. If it were anyone else telling her what she was and wasn't going to do they'd need a hospital bed themselves, but with him, she knows he just being protective over her as she would be him. "He's ordained. And if we want, he can marry us right here, right now."

He does a double take of the Master Sergeant, before turning back towards her. The hope that floods his body is making it hard for him not to jump out of his wheelchair. "But, are you sure?"

"I've never been more sure of anything in my life."

"I just thought you'd want to do it state side with a big party and fancy white dress."

"I don't. I want to do it, right here, right now."

"Baby, we can't. We're in the hospital."

Her shoulders deflate at his words, she really thought he'd go for this. She thought he'd be more urgent after what happened a few days ago.

"Look, I know how much you love my smoking hot body, but we're in no state to ravage each other right now."

"Marty!"

Sergeant Massey, takes in the exchange between the two and smiles. He's known Kensi since she was 5 years old, when he and her father were stationed together. Before Don died, he made him promise that if anything ever happened to him, he'd look out for his daughter and be there for her. In all his years of knowing the SEAL, he's never seen her glow like this, or see this light shining in her eyes when she looks at the man sitting next to her. And judging by the way the blonde looks at her, he knows without a doubt his feeling are reciprocated.

She squeezes his hand, her eyes swimming with emotions. "I love you and I don't want to spend another minute not being with you."

He wipes another trail of tears from his cheeks, smiling none the less. "Dammit, Blye. I wasn't emotionally prepared for this today."

"Just trying to keep you on your toes, babe."

His lips find the back of her hand, his eyes staying locked with hers. "Since day one."

Looking from her fiancé to her "uncle", Kensi nods, assuring the marine that they're more than ready.

XXXX

Present

He comes up behind her as she steps out of the shower, nuzzling her neck. "Best day ever."

"Well for a few more months it will be."

He looks up, locking eyes with hers in the mirror. Her smile turning his legs into jelly as she lays her hands on top of his that are on her stomach. Their baby's in there. This is their last Thanksgiving as a family of two. Leaning her head back against his shoulder, she turns her head, to meet his lips with hers.

"Hello? Kensi? Marty?"

They pull back from their embrace as the familiar voice runs through their house. "Dammit, they're here already."

"Hey, that's your family." She gently shoves her husband before stepping into their room to change.

He takes hold of her hand, pulling her back into the bathroom with him, his eyes darkening as he takes in her bare chest. "I don't mean- I just wanted to ravage your body one more time before the house was full."

Knowing they can't have the fun they want to right now she rubs her breast against his bare chest just because she can. "Tonight."

Before he can do anything else, she slips from his arms and walks into their closet to change, smiling as he lets out a loud groan. "Evil."

XXXX

Kensi makes her way down the stairs followed by her husband as her brother and brother-in-law bring in the last load from the car. "Hey, guys!"

Sabatino sits down the bag in his hand, smiling as he wraps Kensi in arms. "How's my favorite sister?"

She smiles at the sentiment, but knows just what to say to make him cower in fear. "I'll be sure to tell Talia you said that."

"No, please." He may be their older brother, but out of all three of them, he's definitely the weakest.

"It's good to see you Sabatino." Deeks hugs his brother-in-law as Kensi walks over to Eric giving him a hug as well.

"Uncle Marty! Aunt Kensi!"

Marty's face lights up when he hears the familiar voice call out his name, his attention turning towards their guest bathroom as their nephew walks out. "Ez!"

The ten year old runs up to his aunt and uncle wrapping them both in a hug.

"Oh, my gosh! You've gotten so big." She says, running her finger through his hair.

They all walk into the kitchen as Ezra runs off into the living room to play with his Legos. As Marty checks on the turkey in the oven, Kensi and Eric stand over the trash can and begin peeling the sweet potatoes.

"Aunt Kensi, what are these for?"

The brunette looks up, unprepared to see the tiny pair of sneakers her nephew is holding in his hand. "Oh, that's um..."

Eric's jaw drops when he sees the shoes and quickly turns his attention to the brunette standing next to him. "No."

A blush rises to her cheeks, her eyes immediately finding her husband's. A smile bright on his face. "Yeah."

"You guys!" Eric wraps his arms around the pair, pulling them into an embrace.

Sabatino rushes in from the backyard at the sound of his husband's excitement. "What? What's going on?"

"Kensi's having a baby!"

"I'm getting a cousin?" The little boy questions, looking for confirmation.

"Yeah."

Ezra throws his fist in the air as he jumps up in excitement. "YES!"

Shaking himself out of his shocked state, Sabatino walks over to his little sister and brother-in-law, giving them both a hug. "How far along are you?"

"Just about 14 weeks."

"Does anybody else know?"

"Just Talia."

"Which means Sam also knows." Marty says, knowing none of the siblings can keep anything from their spouses.

"We were gonna tell everyone at dinner tonight."

"Oh, man, I can't wait to see the look on mom's face." Sabatino smiles, thinking about the woman who was more of a mother to him than his own was, and how she reacted when he and Eric told her that they were adopting Ezra.

Kensi laughs when she remembers how excited her mom got at the news of Ezra and how ever since she met Marty she's been not so subtly dropping hints about having all the time in the world to babysit, she just needed a baby.

As the older brother, Sabatino's had his fair share of talks with his sisters. Ever since their dad died, he's found it his responsibility to be that protecter and encourager that his father was for them when he was alive. "Hey, Kens, I know you already know this but dad would be so proud of you."

"I really hate that he's not gonna get to watch this little one grow up." Her left hand finds her abdomen, thinking about all the wonderful moments he's going to miss. Tears springing to her eyes.

"I know. When we found out about Ez I just pictured all of the things he would miss. But you know what?"

"What?"

"You, me and Talia...we're gonna teach this baby all the things that he taught us, just like we're doing with Ezra."

"He'll be here."

"He'll be here."

Kensi's attention is drawn away from her brother when she hears her husband and nephew's conversation as they start mashing the potatoes. "I'm sorry, bud, we're not naming the baby Big Bird."

"But why?"

"How about this, how about Aunt Kensi and I name the baby, but you come up with your own special nickname for it that only you call them."

The raven haired boy's eyes light up in glee at his uncle's counter offer. "Oooh, that would be so cool."

Sabatino watches the exchange, his heart overwhelmed at the fact that this is the man that could give their dad a run for his money when it comes to being the best dad. "He's gonna be a great dad."

"He is." She nods, knowing without a doubt that her brother is right.

Marty looks across the kitchen, catching her eyes, the smile that's reserved for her lighting up his face. "Don't tell me he's trying to get us to name the baby Vostanik."

"Hey, that's a good name." Sabatino puts his hand to his chest, affronted by his brother-in-law's playful jab.

"I don't know who told you that, but they were clearly lying to you."

"Your words hurt, Marty."

"You'll get over it." Kensi smirks, answering for her husband.

Marty can feel the room get warmer as his wife sends him a wink. That paired with her helping him double team her brother, he's doing all he can not to drag her back up to their bedroom. One thing's for certain, it's going to be a long day.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

A/N: Kensi's dad and Sabatino look too similar...

[appledashieeus]

“We don’t talk together” - Heize but it’s about Rainbow Dash’s feelings for her crush.

At Sweet Snack Cafe...

Sunset: So... How are you guys doing?

Rainbow: Nahh I’m doing just as awesome as usual

Applejack (smirk): Huh? Ah’m good. So how about you Sunset?

Rainbow: Yeah, how are you AND Pinkie doin’?

Sunset (darting her eyes away from the girl, replying shyly): We’re alright.. I guess.

Sunset: Talking about relationships, how are you and Rarity? Didn’t you two decide to get back together after that ​Starswirled Music Festival​, right?

Applejack (awkwardly): Yeah, righ- ah mean... things are really not that clear yet. *blushing hard, and immediately gulped the water in her glass to relieve her awkward state*  Rare said she needs more time but ah’ think we’re doin’ alright?

Sunset (confused): But didn’t you two spent major time together at that festival?...

Rainbow (thinking in her head): Not all the time

Sunset:...You even rolled her sushi...

Rainbow (muttering): She makes food for everyone.

Sunset:...you made her mud-mask...

Rainbow (still muttering):She didn’t, it was real mud tho

Sunset:...And that Ponygram’s video ya two made together about camping must have, it has like, millions heart icons in it!

Rainbow (keep muttering but smaller volume): Rare likes heart icon, that’s all.

Applejack (thinking about it and start blushing): A-ah’ guess yall did have sum point.

Sunset (smirk in champion way): Hah, see.

AJ *smiled nervously while her cheeks turn in beet-red*

Sunset (notice RD’s gloomy face): So how about you Rainbow? How’s your relationship status?

Rainbow (startled): Oh.. um am alright. Too busy being captain of all the sport team in school at the moment, no time for that mussy love thing *acts careless*

Sunset: Hmm.. I see. But how about Fluttershy, don’t you take care of her a lot? Like whenever were hangin’ out you’re always with her, and last summer your fam and her fam even went on vacation together, right?

Rainbow: There is n-

Applejack: There is no way RD and Fluttershy having anything for each other ah’m tellin’ ya *chuckle* They are childhood friends, more specifically they parents are friends, even tho they don't seem like they have anything in common but Fluttershy’s parents trust RD a lot. They asked her to look after their daughter, am ‘ah right sugarcube?

Rainbow (smiled nervously): Yeah, that’s everything Sunset. By the way Fluttershy already has a crush on this tree-nerd, what’s her name again? Ahh yeah Tree Hugger. Don’t you know about that?

Rainbow: Besides, she isn’t my type anyway so yea, that kind of relationship is impossible for us. We’re more like sister if you ask me tho *placing the straw in the cup she was holding on her lips, drinking her cool rainbow ice-blended to dispel the tense*

Sunset (confusion): Ah yeah, right, Pinkie might mentioned it before but I wasn’t paying much attention haha *chuckle shyly*

🎶 Get in the group, you bring that dancing shoes~ I’ll bring that attitude, you bring the crew so we can move~ 🎵

Applejack (startled): Ohh that was mah phone. *pick up the phone* Yea Rarity?....

Sunset looking at RD’s frowning face , “there must be something wrong here” she thinks.

Applejack (hang up her phone): Uhm.. Sorry you guys, it’s time for me to go to Rare’s house. Ah’ promised her ah’ll build her closet-room today. And ah gonna post it on Ponygram so remember to check ‘em out *chuckle shyly*

Applejack (pack up her thing and finish her apple smoothie): Okay ah’ gotta go now, see yall later.

Sunset: Yeah take care AJ

Rainbow (back to earth): Ah right, bye AJ see you around.

Sunset (waving): Have fun!

After Applejack left, The atmosphere became dull for the Speedster. Dashie’s face formed a noticeable gloom which Sunset recognized.

Sunset: Hey Rainbow, you alright?

Rainbow:

Sunset: Heyy *wave her hand at RD’s face*

Rainbow:

Sunset: (do and say random thing) Back to earth Rainbow Dash

Rainbow:

Sunset (lose her temper): RAINBOW DASH!!

Rainbow (startled): Huh? I’m here am here. Oh it was you, Sunset Shimmer. You don’t need to shout that loud you know. *takes a sip from her ice-blended*

Sunset (pats Rainbow’s shoulder): Is there anything wrong Dash? *she said in a worrying tone*

Rainbow (sigh): It’s nothing Sunset, I just...

Sunset stopped for a moment and thought about the conversation the three of them had earlier. Not long after studying the moment shared, Sunset finally realized what the actual problem really was

Sunset (slightly serious voice): You have a crush on AJ don’t you?

Rainbow (got startled, nervously looking around while quickly uses her hand to shut Sunset up): Wh-what? What are you saying! pfft.. tsk.. I don’t have feelings for Applejack, Sunset.

Sunset (takes RD’s hand off her mouth): Ugh.. Chill out Dash, It’s not like Pinkie’s here today to bounce and talk non-stop about this. Gummy caught a stomach ache, she had to bring him over to Fluttershy.

Sunset (looking around): And it seems like there is no one we know is sittin’ in. So Rainbow Dash, calm down.

Rainbow (finally making herself calm down a bit and sitting down): Yeah you’re right *sigh, looking down* So you know my secret huh? Now what, are you going to tell everyone about it?

Sunset: No Dash that’s not what I mea-

(The original was in Korean but I decided to use the translation. Suggest yall to listen to this song while continue reading)

🎵~ Do you feel the same now? It’s strange

This night we’ve been walking a long time ~ 🎶

Rainbow Dash froze upon hearing the song. She knows this song. She felt her heart clench inside her chest as if it was stabbed with a sword

Sunset sensed how uneasy her rainbow headed friend had become and as her friend. she scooted closer to show comfort

Sunset (patted her friend’s back): Hey RD, I know that you feel uncomfortable about all of this, but if you need someone to talk to.. I’m right here you know? I’ll be all ears.

Rainbow (looking at Sunset then look down at her ice-blended , her voice got softer than ever): You see Sunset...

Sunset: (listening)

Rainbow (sigh): I did something I shouldn’t. I have a crush on my best friend, and that friend is even DATED my other best friend. I’m a real mess ain’t I. *dugs her face in both of her hands releasing a heavy breathe of sigh*

Sunset (surprisingly and hesitantly): Dash i-

🎶~ Without any fear

I don’t know, I don’t know

Maybe back then 🎵

I just relied too much on Believing you would comfort me ~ 🎶

The feels that Rainbow Dash is feeling right now, she hated it.

Sunset (still patting RD’s back in comfort): You know RD, there is nothing wrong with you or your feelings. At all.                                                                           It’s something natural and you can’t just abandon or run away from it. I’m sure those feelings are reasonable same as everyone else’s

Sunset: Again, I am here if you need me.

🎵 ~ ​I know

We love each other 🎶

We don’t talk together I’m always yours

Why don’t you? 🎵

I don’t want to admit it Why don’t you?

🎶 I can’t send you away ~

RD’s shoulders trembled, her tears began to flow down her face

Sunset (surprised): Rainbow i-

Rainbow (slightly sobbing): Sunset I don’t know anymore. I shouldn't feel this way but I just can’t stop it. I love Applejack... a lot. *her voice getting weaker and sobber* It’s way too hard for me to control this damn feeling, I just think about that girl every time, every-freaking-second. Like, even when I play my game, if she doesn’t show up i’ll get distracted because i keep thinkin’ why or what happened. It’s too much for me Sunset, way too much.

Sunset got surprised, she never expected this, that one of her cool tomboy and stoic friend could be this soft and fragile. It... makes Sunset remember her past, she feels empathy.

Without saying anything, she continued on stroking her friends back.

Rainbow (still sobbing): Y-you know Sunset...

Sunset (starled): H-huh? *she just got back from her thinking space*

Rainbow (raises her face up, using a napkin to wipe the tears on her face away): AJ is something, she truly is something special, to me. I love a lot of things about this cowgirl. She’s the only person that could be as awesome as I am. Oh no offense Sunset.

Sunset (slightly smile): Non taken. I get what you’re saying, I thought that kind of way about Pinkie too.

Rainbow (finally giggle a bit): You see Sunset, me and AJ do a lot of things together. We’re even friend before I met the other girl, well not Fluttershy since my parents know her for a long time already. But yeah, Applejack and I spent most of the time together since we have tons of common interests, we shared the same hobbies and we’re always doing silly competitions together.

Sunset (giggled a bit): I can tell. But is that the only thing makes you trippin’ for Applejack that hard, I think there is more? *leaning her back to the chair*

Rainbow (chuckle a bit): You’re reading my mind aren’t you

Sunset (shrugs): I’m not touching you tho

They both stopped for a moment and then cracked smile together.

(I recommend yall to listen to “Some” by BOL4 or “Honey” by Kehlani while continue reading Rainbow’s thought on AJ)

Rainbow: Yeah yeah you are right. It’s not the only thing.

Rainbow (starts blushing): Well... I love Applejack because she is who she is. I love how she’s really responsible you know? She’s completely the exact opposite as I am. She’s smart and dependable to everyone… she knows how to handle her friends, family and... (blushing harder while muttering) me. She’s really strong as well, both physical and emotional, you know after what happened to her parents.

Sunset (nodding): I can tell.

Rainbow (takes a big gulp of her ice-blended and continuing): Okay this is awkward and idk what you think but Applejack is *shyly blushing* the apple of my eyes.

Sunset (interested face): Ooooo

Rainbow (embarrassed): I-i mean she is pretty tho, like nature pure pretty. She don’t even need any of that Rarity’s makeover thing *sarcastically voice*.   

She’s just naturally gorgeous.

Sunset (drinking her juice and raises her eyebrow): Hmm... I see.

Rainbow (blushing shyly): Like, have you seen those freckles on her cheeks, they make AJ looks so freaking adorable. Her voice is funny and beautiful at the same time, I don’t care what other think but her country puns are hilarious and I like it when she called me “sugarcube” or “hun”, yes I do know she say that to everyone but still...

Sunset: (chuckling secretly)

Rainbow (continuing): And gosh, her emerald eyes are something unreal for sure im tellin’ ya, they are so mysterious, deeply and shiny like the aurora light in Arctic. I don’t know why but her looks for me are somehow so powerful, especially when she raises her eyebrow. It’s like she’s reading every ounce of me making me can’t lie to her.

Sunset (nodding): I gotta agree with you on that, Applejack’s look truly is something powerful tho.

Rainbow (sign and smirk in sarcastic): Yeah, she can easily tell when someone’s lying, but couldn’t tell how much I’m going nuts over her

Sunset: Woah RD, it sounds hurtful when you say it that way.

Rainbow: It is what it is.

Sunset (curiously): But now AJ is single, why don’t you just go hit on her?

Rainbow (hide her nervousness): Seriously Sunset? Aren’t you the one who just brought up all those Rarijack moments to Applejack and makes her blush as heck? *sarcastically voice*

Sunset (feeling guilty): Oopsie! Sorry Dash, I didn’t know...

Rainbow (sign): It isn’t your fault anyway. If anyone is at fault here, it’s me.

Sunset: No Rainbow, why would you even think ‘bout it that way? It doesn’t sound like the awesome Rainbow Dash I know at all.

Rainbow (smirk): I could be awesome at a lot of things, but in this mussy love thing Sunset. I am a loser, a betrayal to my friendship with Rarity and Applejack...

Sunset (pity voice): Dash...

Rainbow (chuckle in sarcastic): Isn’t it funny Sunset, fallin’ in love with my best friend who is taken by my other best friend, how much of a jerk am I?

Sunset: Stop Rainbow, you are being negative. Besides, AJ and Rare broke up for a while now. Hey, if that Ragamuffin Rare met on the spring yatch have social media, they’re probably dating by now. And remember one thing, Rarity is you best friend , she’ll understand.

Rainbow (looking at Sunset with surprisingly then looking down at the table again): B-but what if the two of them actually still have feelings for each other… You’ve seen how blushed AJ was when you brought up Rarijack stuffs to her...

Sunset (sign): RD-

*Tingg* (coming from Sunset’s phone)

Rainbow: Is that Pinkie?

Sunset (check her phone): Yeah, her appointment with Fluttershy just finished.

Rainbow (playing with her straw): Yeah you should probably go pick her up

Sunset: Dash i-

Rainbow (rest her chin on her hand): Don’t worry for me I kinda need to head home too. Go take care for your little ​chaos.

Sunset (chuckle): Yeah yeah you’re right.

Sunset (pack up her things): I was actually surprised, RD. It’s not about your feelings for AJ, more like because I’ve never seen that soft part of you like this, at all. Not until now, that’s ju-

Rainbow: Uhm... Sunset Shimmer, talking about that...

Sunset: Yea?

Rainbow (hesitantly): Can you keep our conversation today as a secret, especially to AJ or any of the girl, or just anyone we know. You see, it’s not just  because I don’t want anyone to know about my feelings..

Rainbow (sheepishly): My reputation is kind of at stake too you know? Who would want to know that the ever so awesome Rainbow Dash being like this when it comes to this lovey-dovey things *smiled nervously*

Sunset (slightly smile. sign): I get it Dash, your secret is safe with me. Pinkie promise.

Rainbow (lightened up a bit): Thank you Sunset, for everything. I really appreciate that.

Sunset: No big deal RD, I'm glad that you shared with me too. Hey if you need a company, just know that I’ll always be ready for *sarcastically voice but in a good way* mussy love talk, okay?

Rainbow (giggle): Yeah yeah, I will. Now you better go if you don’t want to keep your pink cotton candy waiting for her *sarcastically voice but in a good way* mussy girlfriend.

Sunset (chuckle): Chezz Rainbow Dash, okay see you tomorrow *waving and leaving*

Rainbow (waving back): Yeah see you ‘round

To be continued...

[chronicalanxiety]

[here are their cutie marks and a sketch of their human forms that nobody asked for]

Now here’s a huge ass description for the kids™ if anyone is interested

Zap Apple

Rainbow and Applejack's first-born child and Lil' Cheese's best mate. Zap is a daydreamer and has a gentle soul, he's that one ripped nerd that likes writing and drawing things just for the sake of it. Exploring and discovering new things and places is what really makes his eyes glow (history and geography hoe), so he can be usually seen carrying his saddlebag around all the time (you never know when you're gonna need sketching and exploring supplies). Zap also loves puzzles and is a huge fanboy of Daring Do Books like Dash (and adventure books in general. AJ swears it's because Rainbow used to read so many Daring Doo adventures to her belly when she was pregnant). While he can be smart, he tends to over-thinks things, Zap has a wide imagination and is easily one of the most compassionate ponies around, though he used to be easily coaxed into fights or manipulated by his feelings. Like a good apple family member, the boy loves farm life and has a strong fraternal instinct, but his nature just doesn't allow him to settle there, though he still finds some peace whenever he's back in the environment he grew up in.

Random facts:

- Zap loved wearing his Ma's hat so much that she gave one for him as a gift in a Hearts Warming;

- He lost part of his his right ear to a bad fall when he and some friends went exploring one of his first off-limits area;

- Loves collecting comic books and stamps;

- AJ entered labor right during a Zap Apple harvest (Yep, that's exactly how he got his name);

- Inherited AJ's stare and lie detector;

- Upon noticing Zap's resemblance to his great grandmother, Rainbow nicknamed him Baby Smith.

Applejoy

Rainbow and Applejack's middle child. Applejoy doesn't take her name for granted, she's a total sunshine and bringing people happiness is what really makes her happy. She tends to be famous for getting a bunch of bruises all the time and being a little too reckless, so much so she lost two of her teeth out of pure clumsiness when she was little and had to wait until they began to grow to get them back (still has the best smile), and she also used to break her flying goggles at least once a week. The girl is also very outspoken and sincere, though it can end up being a problem sometimes. Applejoy is the family's Poly Athlete and has strong and fast wings (as well as legs, the girl is speed itself), she doesn't do very well in school but makes for it in sports and is very disciplined when it comes to it (Rainbow is her personal coach for every occasion). She hates losing, but tries her best to be a good sport and not to show she's upset most of the time. It was also awfully difficult for Applejack to handle her being all over the place when she learned how to use her wings (no need to say she was very grateful when her next child was born an earth pony).

Random facts: - Inherited Rainbow's habit of napping on trees (Applejack didn't like the idea, she was always concerned her children were gonna fall and hurt themselves for being too cloud-headed);

- Loves to indulge in her mother's sugary treats;- Rainbow started calling her junior (or AJJ) because her name abbreviation is the same as her ma's. No need to say the nickname was a success;

- Sleepwalker;

- The bandana she uses around her neck is a part of the fabric of an old sheet she used to nap with;

- Likes a bunch of crafts, specially wood-carving, but isn't really gifted at most of them (doesn't matter because she always tries her best every time).

Cider Splash

Rainbow and Applejack's youngest child and Tank's best buddy. Cider Splash a performer at heart, he's a innate dancer and plays multiple instruments very decently, he's the loudest of the bunch in every way and talks everyone's ears off (some conversations can also turn into musical numbers for no apparent reason). He's the most headstrong and stubborn out of the three, so he'll almost always get really deep into a project (or anything, really) when he sets his mind in it. He has blessed hoofs like AJ and is by far the one who ends up helping with the applebucking stuff the most, though he has a natural charm with the farm animals and prefers playing with them (his love for animal plushies wasn't taken for granted). He also indulges in cooking (mostly by Big Sugar's influence). Cider was always jealous of his sibling's ability to fly, so RD tries to compensate by taking him for a ride every once in a while and making sure he's the first one to get Wonderbolts tickets whenever they perform.

Random facts: - His love for music started when Applejack bought him a toy guitar to get him out of his tantrums when he was little. Later, his grandpa Bow Hothoof gave him a mini drum set as a birthday gift. AJ and RD weren't very happy when he started playing it all the time and making a bunch of noise, but they eventually saw potential in it and started investing in his inate talent;

- No need to say cider is his favorite drink ever;

- His bandana was a handmade gift from his Aunt Applebloom.

Florence

Fluttershy's big baby and Agate's older step-sister. Florence is a very resourceful and hard-working young mare, though she tends to spends way too much energy worrying about results and is almost constantly on the verge of outright panic (she's usually seen gritting her teeth or generally flipping out, no need to say she does not fare well under stress, specially when she is given a task to complete). Florence is known to be very sensible and intelligent, and even though she sometimes puts her own paranoia before common sense, she usually manages to find logical solutions to problems. She learned how to deal with stress by canalizing it into something productive, thanks to Rarimom (which ended up being another source of anxiety, ironically). She also has very strong beliefs, and when forced to question them, she becomes very upset. Despite that, Florence is extremely loyal and kind and will go out of her way to help other ponies.

Random facts: - Her scarf was given by Rarity, it made her feel safe when she was little, and she still uses it until this day (Her moms had to bribe with her in order to get her to let them clean and wash it after months of using it non-stop);

- Probably has OCD;

- She has also been known to retreat into her imagination when under extreme stress, often picturing peaceful, grassy fields or tranquil landscapes to calm herself down.

- Florence loves her coffee, tea and Fluttermum's pets more than her life (She loved growing up around pets, they still give her a sense of calm and relaxation. Her mom used to use them to calm her down when she was crying or couldn't sleep, she would almost always fall asleep after caressing some pet's ear for a while)

Agate

Rarity’s most precious gem and Florence’s little step-sister. Agate has been a very independent gal since she was little, she has been described as curious, monotone and sarcastic, and also appears to be more logical and mature than some of her peers, typically being the one to call them out on their ignorance, she’s inclined to remain passive and stoical to most things that happen around her. She has a fuckton control over her emotions and wears a neutral expression about 80% of the time, but is actually a pretty chill gal and has a very good (and weird) sense of humor. Agate has a great eye for photography (specially Avant-garde stuff) and turns out working as a professional photographer in the future.

Random facts: - Lowkey a huge mystery fan and computer nerd;

- Has a huge soft spot for Fluttermom's pets since she first came in contact with one, she can’t help but to smile the whole time she’s around them;

- Discord's favorite gal right next to Fluttershy.

Lil' Cheese

So let's get this out of the way, the script says Lil' Cheese is a colt, but many people see them as a filly, so they ended up being non-binary in my headcanon because I couldn't decide their gender (but go with whatever suits you better).

"Don't worry, Zap and Cheese got another infallible plan". Cheesecake, AKA "Lil' Cheese", is first and foremost known for the ability to talk their ass off anytime of the day for whatever reason (they used to spend most of their time besides their mom, so no need to mention that they practically picked up all her goofiness and energy by osmosis), they're also an excellent actor and are known as "The God of Puns". They’re generally a popular and gifted student, however, they're foul-mouthed and kind of competitive (but despite that, they are generally well liked and always looking after their friends). Lil' Cheese uses their innate talent for comedy and natural charm and charisma to help attract attention to their mum's bakery. Cheese had pretty deep random conversations with Pinkie since very little, so they turned out to be a pretty good conversationalist and improviser.

Big Sugar/Little Mac

I don't really have a very elaborate description for him (sorry peeps), but I imagine Sugar as a very sweet (pun intended) Big Baker Boy that loves cooking (and eating, most of all). He has that big bro energy and always gives the best hugs, but can also have with no mercy when messing around with his peers. He's very well liked around Ponyville and known for his extroverted and warm nature, though he may care way to much about other's opinions and tends to take a lot of them personally. Being a proud member of the Apple Family, he's the embodiment hard-work and loves working on the farm, but his heart always feel in the right place whenever he's preparing meals for other ponies.

----------

Okay, so quick backstory time about how Flarity happened in this canon.

Fluttershy was going through a very rough time with her previous marefriend, she always wanted to have a child of her own, and seeing her friends having some of their own made her even more eager to have one, so she found a sperm donor and conceived Florence with the consent of her partner at the time. Their relationship didn't get any less toxic even after Florence was born, so as a good friend, Discord felt the obligation to intervene (along with the rest of the elements of harmony) and convince Fluttershy to just end it and let go, as it wasn't doing any good for both her and the kid. When she finally got out of it, Discord and Rarity were the ones who helped Flutters to heal the most.

Meanwhile, Agate was the product of Rarity's previous marriage with Fancy Pants and was conceived as the last hope for their doomed marriage. Turns out having a child didn't save their relationship and they ended up divorcing, both going their separate ways with their own lives and businesses, however, it was a healthy separation and they remained in good terms with each other. Rarity took this separation as a way to get to know more about herself and to spend more time bonding with her daughter, having a break from her business life and letting Sassy Saddles and some other employees take the wheel for a little while, though she didn't stop playing her part on the creative side. During the time Fluttershy was going through her healing process, she and Rarity reconnected and some gay stuff happened. By the time the series ended they were probably on the dating phase and close to engagement. They eventually marry and join their families together.

Also Discord's still a very close friend of the couple and helps them and the kids whenever and in whatever way he's able to. He loves spending time with the kids, specially Agate, who finds his chaotic energy specially amusing.

[ericsonclan]

Wash Free the Blood

Summary: The Ericson pirates stop at a port town where everything goes wrong

Word Count: 6739

Read on AO3:

Prisha felt the cool wind blow across her face as the smell of the sea danced around her nose. Taking a moment, Prisha brushed back the few wisps that had curled round her face before placing her hand on the side of the ship. In a single fluid motion Prisha jumped over the side and landed on the dock with ease. A short breath escaped her lips as her eyes wandered round the island where they had decided to stop. The waters were a beautiful ombre, turquoise changing to deep blue the further the water level went. The water ebbed and flowed with small waves that crashed across the white sands. Palm trees decorated the island, gifting it with shade and some coconuts. It seemed to be a rather small community with a small share of houses at the base before a long walkway led to a sort of white mansion. Prisha paused for a moment. Something about this place felt oddly familiar but she couldn’t quite figure out why. It felt as though the answer was on the tip of her tongue when she heard footsteps stroll down the walkway. She glanced back and a warm, loving smile appeared on her face as she saw it was Violet. The blonde pirate looked up at Prisha and returned the smile before casual intertwining her fingers with hers. The two gazed at each other for a moment before Prisha captured Violet’s lips in a quick, soft kiss. When they pulled apart their eyes locked once more, filled with love.

“Oh boy!” Louis hopped down onto the deck, ending the short moment the two had shared. “This island looks amazing! Right, Clem?” He looked over at his wife with a warm, bright smile before offering her a hand as she made her way to the deck. Clementine accepted the help before replying.

“Yeah, it really is amazing,” She looked out at the town before the wild laughs of Willy, AJ and Mitch appeared behind her. The trio shot passed her and scampered towards the shore, each of them excited to see a new place. Soon all the other pirates exited Ol’ Kickass.

“It sure is lovely,” Sophie gave a soft smile that faltered for a moment as her eyes wandered down to the braces on her arms. Her mind returned to that dreaded day, the day Minnie had died. They had fought so hard for that moment and for what? It filled Sophie’s heart with deep guilt and sorrow.The redheaded pirate was pulled from her swirling thoughts when she felt something warm embrace her hand. Glancing down, she noticed that it was Tenn’s hand. Her younger brother gave a gentle smile up to his sister who tried her best to give it back in kind. Marlon glanced back at the pair for a moment, wondering if he should say anything but before he could Rosie had drawn his attention once more. His eyes grew large before he gave a whistle, commanding Rosie to get back on the ship and stand guard. The pitbull looked saddened by it for a moment but quickly licked Marlon’s hand and ran back onto Ol’ Kickass.

“What's the name of this place again?” Brody asked as she walked alongside Mitch who had calmed down a bit.

“I believe it's name was Ellister.” Aasim called out from the back of the pack. His hand swayed gently with Ruby’s as they walked forward.

“I can’t wait to check this place out!” Willy exclaimed, giving a toothy grin to AJ who was now walking alongside Louis and Clementine. The shaggy haired teen was so lost in his excitement that he failed to notice when he ran into Prisha and Violet, causing their hands to slip away from each other. “Shit, sorry!” Willy gave an apologetic smile to the couple before the back of his shirt was nabbed by Brody and he was pulled back.

“You’re gonna walk with us, Willy,” Brody gave the teen a scolding look before looking back at Prisha. The auburn pirate’s gentle smile faltered for a moment when she saw that Prisha was deep in thought. “Prish?”

“Hmm?” Prisha shook herself out of her thoughts. “My deepest apologies,” Prisha thought to speak more on the growing sense that she knew of this place. But she brushed past it and continued to chat with the crew happily as they began to make their way into the town.

Soon the conversation became heated as different crew members talked about whether or not any of them could cook as great as Omar. Many had taken the side of not being able. Omar seemed to have been blessed by the gods of the seas and winds when it came to cooking so to even think to obtain that level seemed unrealistic. That, however, didn’t stop a few from speaking up that they probably could, mainly Mitch.

“I bet I could cook us some good grub,” Mitch gave a cocky smile before looking over at his love. She didn’t seem to agree. “What?”

“I highly doubt-” Brody’s sentence was cut off though when a voice appeared in front of them.

“Stop right there!” A man dressed in fine deep blue clothes called out, a rapier by his side along with a sidearm. Soon more and more men appeared with him. The Ericson pirates stopped in their tracks, unsure whether they had already been recognized even though they highly doubted that was the case. Aasim had checked to make sure they had been nowhere near this area before. After all the pain they had gone through they simply wanted a break. But then why did the man leading this group look so angry?

Before any of the crew could hope to put together the pieces, the man grabbed Prisha by the collar and dragged her forward. He then gave a harsh hit to Prisha’s gut causing a thread of saliva to escape her lips. The pirates began to move forward but the man didn’t stop. Instead he threw Prisha to the ground and placed his knee on her back while holding back her good arm, twisting it sharply. Prisha let out a sharp, short hiss of pain.

“I never thought I’d live to see that day,”

“The fuck do you think you’re doing!” Violet dashed forward but was immediately picked up by another one of the men. He wrapped his arms through hers and held her up. The blonde pirate’s legs kicked around wildly in the air and she struggled to break free. The other pirates moved forward, ready to help but froze when the other men drew their muskets and aimed them at the crew. Louis held out his arm and stood before Clementine and AJ while Mitch and Brody both moved Willy behind them. Everyone’s guards were up as they tried to protect even one member of their family.

Violet kicked frantically, her pale green eyes glaring at the man that still held Prisha to the ground. “You get your fucking hands off her!” Violet spat, venom in her voice as she saw the man press her wife’s face against the dirt.

“I wouldn’t be so rude,” The man shot back with a sneer. “I’m simply doing my duty as a privateer. You see, I know of this pirate. This filth of the sea. You ran with the Deliverance,” The name made Prisha’s eyes grow large and fill with an array of different emotions; none were positive. “How I’d love to kill you right here and now for what you’ve done,” The privateer’s hand trembled with rage, hovering over his flintlock pistol. Violet struggled once more but was quickly silenced with a harsh hit across the face. The sight made Prisha’s heart tighten.

“Please! There’s no need to hurt her! It’s me who you have an issue with!”

The privateer looked surprised by the fear and worry in Prisha’ eyes as she looked towards her wife. The side of the blonde pirate’s face was still red from the force of the blow. The privateer looked between the two of them and soon his anger returned stronger than before. He turned to the Ericson pirates all of whom looked like they wanted to tear apart the group of privateers. “Drop your weapons! All of them!” he instructed before unholstering his pistol and aiming it at Violet. “Now!”

“Listen to him,” Louis took out his sword and tossed it in front of him. One by one the pile of weapons grew higher as the crew threw in any they had. They weren't going to risk Violet’s life.

“Good. Bind their hands. The duke would love nothing more than to see this one,” He spat towards Prisha. “And if her company is anywhere near as bad, we’ll be doing the seas a favor.” The crew all tried to resist, threatening the privateers as they moved to harm those they loved, but within seconds they were all getting their hands tied. Prisha felt her heartbeat pound in her ears as she watched her family slowly be guided towards the mansion in the distance. In that moment the realization struck her. That's why this place had felt vaguely familiar. It must’ve been one of the places the Deliverance had pillaged years ago. The brutality of those years, the sheer amount of bloodshed and bodies that she had left in her wake, it was all catching up with her and now it would bring Violet and the others in harm’s way.

The crew walked in silence, all of them terrified of what was to come. Some showed it clearly on their faces while others held anger as their main emotion, glaring at the men who pushed them forward. As they neared the building the details became more clear. The white mansion stood on a small elevation overlooking boulders covered in greenery, trees of all sorts growing beside the stone staircases that led up to a small balcony and the front doors. Large windows intricately designed stood proudly by the entrance where pillars shot up from the ground, holding and building into the roof. As they were guided towards the doors Prisha took note of how well the wood of the mansion had held up. This building must have been fairly old and yet it looked nearly brand new.

The privateers pushed the crew into the building which was covered in hardwood flooring. Chandeliers dangled from the ceiling, complementing the multiple tables, desk and shelves that covered the room, each one polished and handcrafted with different types of wood. Large windows brought forth the strong, warm light that showed off the delicate and beautifully sculptured statues that were on display as well as maps and other papers that lay scattered here and there. Whoever was living here was sitting in the lap of luxury, leading a privileged life in their small hideaway from the outside world.

The crew was guided forward towards a room guarded by twin doors made from mahogany. With a mighty push of the doors it was revealed to be a cartography room and a rather large one at that. There hovering over a map with a quill tucked between his middle and ring finger was the duke. In his other hand was a glass of wine, the contents of which swirled around lazily while the man stared at the map intensely. His brown eyes wandered up and noticed the captain of the privateers before he caught sight of the others. He opened his mouth, ready to ask what brought him here today when his eyes fell upon Prisha.

“You,” He placed down his glass and walked in front of his table. “I remember you. Your crew, The Deliverance, butchered the people all around these islands. The blood ran deep in the waters as you heartless bastards pillaged our towns and sliced down our people like it was nothing.” The duke walked forward, his eyes dancing with unyielding hate. With a swift flick of his hand he struck Prisha, causing her to nearly fall over. The different members of the crew lunged forward, each of them wanting to reach out and keep her safe.

“You bastard!” Violet tried to move forward.

“Leave Prisha alone!” Willy snapped at the man but was quickly quieted once his arm was twisted behind him.

“Stop! Please!” Brody begged but her pleas fell on deaf ears. All of the members of the crew started shouting until the duke spoke up again.

“Be silent or I’ll have you join her!” His eyes looked back at Prisha. “I should have you executed for your crimes! Your body held up on display for all to see that justice will be served against those who have wronged us!” Those words made Prisha’s eyes shoot up and lock with the duke's while her friends and wife desperately tried to break free. All of them were terrified by the threat. Before anyone could speak though, a hidden door was opened from behind a bookcase, revealing a tall, short haired man. He was dressed in the finest threads a person could afford. He had a golden jacket detailed with blue flowers that complemented the rest of his shirt and white pants nicely. A vest of the same pattern and colors lay beneath the jacket while the white ruffles of his undershirt spilled out from beneath his vest.

“Father?” The man walked forward and stood beside the duke. “What’s going on?”

“The privateers seem to have caught some pirates including one that ran with The Deliverance.”

The name made the young man flinch; his expression showed how deeply his mind was plagued by those words. “Did they run with The Deliverance too?” The young man’s eyes wandered over to the Ericson pirates.

“No!” Prisha’s voice cracked with desperation. “I was the sole pirate who sailed under that flag!”

The duke glanced over at Prisha, studying her face for a moment. It seemed as though he didn’t fully buy what she was saying. His son’s face, however, held a different look. One with more sympathy to Prisha’s words. His brown eyes scanned hers and noticed something within their depths.

“James,” The duke’s voice snapped the young man’s attention back towards his father. “You don’t need to bother yourself with this. If you needed me for something, you may ask once I am done handing down the sentence.”

James gave a short nod, his gaze turning to the ground for a second then back towards the crew. “What sentence is that?”

“Execution for every last one of them starting with The Deliverance scum,” The duke’s eyes locked onto Prisha, holding nothing but hatred and murderous intent.

“Even the children?” James glanced over at the youngest three of the Ericson pirates.

“Yes, they are too far gone to be spared. After growing up in that lifestyle there is no way to undo it. They all must perish.”

That got a reaction out of the Ericson pirates, all of them shouting once again. Some had nothing but pure anger in their words while others pleaded and begged, all of them trying to get the duke to spare the others’ lives.

The duke felt his blood boil as he gave the signal. In unison the privateers lifted up their muskets towards the pirates once more. “If any of so much as say another word, I will kill your captain right here and now!” He motioned with his hand and the end of a musket pressed against the back of Louis’ skull, ready to end his life in a second should the order be given.

“Father!” James took a step forward. “There is no need for such a show of force. They are all clearly terrified and we already have them captive. Their weapons are no longer with them.”

His son’s words made the duke’s expression soften for a moment. “Fine,” The duke tsked. “Throw them in the cells! Their executions will take place at dawn. Search their ship for anything useful to sell and gather their weapons.”

The privateers nodded and began to drag the Ericson pirates away. The crew all struggled fruitlessly to break free when James spoke up once more in his soft voice.

“Wait! Don’t take them away yet!”

The privateers stopped in their tracks and glanced up at the duke’s son.

“James, what is the meaning of this?” The duke’s face held a level of annoyance to it.

“I think they may be able to help me,” James noticed the look of utter confusion on his father’s face. “You asked me to travel to the edge of the Hastbron Peninsula to be a diplomat for the feuding sides. However with how vicious  and relentless The Deliverance has been lately to our neighboring allies and with their captain still at large the privateers must stay here.”

Prisha could feel bile forming in the back of her throat at the mention of the Deliverance’s captain. Her eyes flickered with hatred and fear for a split second but soon returned to an unreadable state. James stared at her for a moment then continued. “If I left Ellister with the privateers this place would be defenseless, but if I had another mode of transportation and guides then I could start the journey and move towards strengthening our bonds and allies from across the sea.”

“And you think these worthless scum would really take you? They’d slit your throat the instant you left!" The duke spat with anger.

“I disagree,” James shook his head. “If we strike a deal with them, I think they will help.”

“And what deal are you proposing?” The duke crossed his arms and looked towards his son.

“They take me across the sea and make the five day journey with me and then return me home. In exchange we will guarantee their lives and not execute them.”

The Ericson pirates’ eyes grew large and they each shared looks, disbelief and hope dancing within them. The duke remained silent for a minute, his eyes darting left and right as he studied the ground thoughtfully. His mind weighed out the options for a few minutes before he spoke.

“Fine, but Ricardo will journey with you.” The duke motioned towards the captain of the privateers then gestured for Louis to be brought forward. “You will take my son towards the Hastbron Peninsula, unharmed and alive. If you so much as harm my son or the captain of my privateers, I will hunt you and your crew down to the ends of the earth and give you the most brutal end imaginable. You’ll be begging for death before I grant it,” His eyes locked with Louis’. With a frantic nod he had agreed to the terms. “Good,” The duke strolled back then turned to face the pirates. “Twenty days. If you do not return by then, I will send out my men. As insurance that you won’t go back on your word, the youngest of your crew will stay here with me.” The duke gestured towards AJ who was brought forward. The duke looked at the crew, happy that he seemed to have made the right call. Based on the look in Louis’ eyes he assumed this to be his son. “Twenty days, or I will kill you all, starting with this one.”

“No!” Clementine lunged forward but was pulled back by the privateers. “I’ll stay behind. Just give AJ back!”

The duke shook his head. “I’ve made my decision. Take my offer or I’ll schedule the executions.”

Clementine bit down on her lip, her anger boiling deep within her as tears threatened to slip from her eyes.

“We’ve agreed.” Aasim spoke up. “But we can’t very well do our part of the deal with bound hands.”

“My privateers will cut you free once you are back at your ship. James, go prepare for the voyage.”

James gave a quick nod and was gone. With nothing more to say, the duke motioned for the pirates to be taken away. The crew was pushed back through the doors and roughly guided to the docks. When they arrived back at Ol’ Kickass Rosie’s ears immediately peaked up before folding down against her head. Baring her teeth, the pitbull began to growl at the group of men that still held the crew captive.

“Tell your mutt to back off,” Ricardo snapped. Marlon gave a short nod and with a sharp whistle Rosie reluctantly withdrew.

“Sorry,” James’ soft voice appeared from behind them as he ran down the path. The tailcoats of his jacket gently fluttered in the wind as he skidded to a halt. Ricardo motioned for the binds to be cut. Once again the guns were lifted on the Ericson pirates as they were instructed to gather their weapons. Their eyes focused on the privateer’s muskets as they cautiously picked up their weapons. Tenn moved forward to gather AJ’s weapons, a sad look overtaking his eyes as he stared at the shivs in his hands. He was pulled away from it in a moment, however, when Sophie placed her hand on his shoulder and gave a reassuring smile. Once the weapons were gathered Ricardo demanded that they set sail at once.

“You heard the man!” Louis shouted and stood by the wheel, his hands firmly gripping it. “We set sail for the Hastbron Peninsula!” The crew immediately went to work, dashing around the ship to get it ready for the journey. None of them wanted to waste a second when AJ’s life stood in the balance. James wandered around left and right, offering his help but none of the pirates took it. They didn’t want a bright-eyed, bushy tailed rich boy to slow them down. It wasn’t until Aasim called out for assistance in finding the location that James finally had a role to play.

“It’s right there,” James pointed at a small circle of islands. “Usually when my father took voyages there we would speak of him taking this route. The winds were particularly good there.”

Aasim looked at the map, studying it carefully. “Alright, thank you,” He moved past James and ran up to the wheel to discuss the course with Louis. The captain’s face was plagued with dread and worry but he forced a smile towards his friend.  

“Louis!” Marlon’s voice called up from the deck. “We’re ready!”

Louis gave a firm nod and began to steer the ship. His eyes focused on guiding it before they wandered over towards Clementine. Her face was hidden behind the rigging as she walked over towards the center mast. Even though her expression was hidden, Louis could feel the pain and worry radiating off of her. Grabbing onto the rope and twisting it around her arm, Clementine kicked the lever and shot herself into the air,  landing directly by the crow’s nest. She needed some time alone. Louis glanced around at his crew. None of them were doing well. Hell, he was a nervous wreck himself. Regardless, they needed to push onward.

So they continued to sail, all of them working in tense silence. The hours flew by as the winds filled the sails and guided Ol’ Kickass towards its destination. Soon nightfall was upon them and they all sat around eating the stew Omar had prepared. No one spoke at first. Everyone was on edge, their walls high as they worried for their loved ones. Ricardo sat across from Prisha and beside James, his eyes never leaving her. Violet grimaced as she finished her bowl. Once she was done she scooted closer to Prisha, her eyes glaring at the captain of the privateers from time to time. Rosie sat beside Marlon, growling softly at James.

The young man cleared his throat and placed down the bowl. “The stew was delicious,” James glanced over at Omar before he looked away, his gaze focused on the ground. Rosie’s continuous growling made him glance up though. “What's the dog’s name?”

“Rosie.” Marlon rested his hand on top of the pitbull’s head who looked up at him with soft eyes. He smiled down at Rosie then glanced over at James who seemed intrigued by the dog. “Do you want to pet her?”

James’ eyes grew large at the suggestion. “Oh, I’m not sure she likes me,”

“Nah. All you have to do is meet her at her level and let her get your scent. I can show you if you want.” Marlon offered.

“Absolutely not!” Ricardo shook his head. “No harm is to come to the duke’s son.”

“Rosie’s a sweetheart, I swear. “Marlon held up a hand and placed the other over his heart.

“It’s alright,” James moved forward then squatted down,

“Now just hold out your hand,” James followed Marlon’s instructions and ever so cautiously held out his hand. Rosie sniffed it intently for a few seconds before licking the young man’s hand. James gave a soft chuckle and patted the top of Rosie’s head.

“I’m calling it a night,” Clementine rose from her spot and began to walk towards the captain’s quarters.

“I’ll come too,” Louis jogged forward and walked beside his love, she didn’t bother to look up, her eyes cast down and too focused on her worry to notice anything else. Louis’ face fell, his hand moving away from Clementine’s as the pair walked forward. One by one the rest of the pirates left, heading off to their hammocks to call it a night. Ricardo’s eyes followed Prisha and Violet as they disappeared below decks before he loudly announced that he would be turning in for the night as well.

“I’ll take the first watch!” Willy offered, scampering off to start the climb to the crow nest but first he quickly ran over and gave Brody a quick hug. “Night, Brody! Night, Mitch!”

“Goodnight, WIlly,” Brody gave a gentle smile over to the teen before he began the climb.

“I’ll be back in two hours for my shift!” Mitch called out before he walked hand in hand below decks with his love.

“I’m heading to bed too,” Ruby gave a gentle kiss to Aasim who clasped her hand, giving it a soft squeeze.

“I’ll join you soon,” Aasim watched Ruby walk away for a minute then glanced out towards the open sea. Sophie stood on the helm of the ship, her blue eyes focused on the seas while Rosie lay by her feet. Marlon had promised to look after Tenn while Sophie took first shift at the helm.

James scanned the ship for a moment then glanced back at Aasim. “Can I ask you a question?�� Aasim looked over at James. “Sure,”

“I know that one of you ran with The Deliverance,”

“Prisha,”

“I was wondering which flag you sail under.” James asked, his arms wrapped around his knees.

“We’re the Ericson pirates.” Aasim replied simply.

“I’ve never heard of you,” James’ nose scrunched in concentration for a minute as his mind tried to decide the truth of Aasim’s answer.

“I wouldn’t suspect you to. We’ve never set sail in your waters until now,” Aasim’s eyes fell for a moment. “We’re not exactly on the same level as the pirates that roam these waters.”

“How so?” “We don’t kill. At least our code directs only to take life when it is absolutely necessary.” Aasim’s words made James’ eyes grow large. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Pirates that didn’t kill on a whim. It was unheard of, at least to him. “You’re surprised.” Aasim noted.

“Sorry, I...” James took a breath when Aasim spoke up once more.

“It's unusual.” Aasim’s fingers traced the deck. “So, why is it so important for you to reach Hastbron Peninsula?”

“I need to get a treaty signed. Two of the islands have been feuding for years now but the only way we can all survive The Deliverance’s attacks is by putting aside our differences and uniting. We have to go the peaceful route and learn to work together or we’re no better than pi-” James caught himself on that word and looked down guilty. “I want to keep Ellister safe.”

Aasim nodded. A silence passed between the pair. Silently the pirate rose from his spot. “I need to check one more thing before turning in. I’d advise you to call it a night.”

“Alright,” James gave a nod and watched for a moment as Aasim disappeared into the cartography room. The duke’s son looked up at the starry sky for a moment then got up and went below decks to sleep.

The next three days were tense. None of the pirates were able to concentrate; none could with AJ stuck back on Ellister as a hostage. It had become clear after the first night that Clementine was struggling. Her eyes were red and her face dry from tears. Louis tried his best to comfort her and be by her side but there was only so much he could do.

Ricardo continued to watch Prisha like a hawk, not trusting her for a minute, which put Violet more on edge. The blonde pirate never left her wife’s side unless it was absolutely necessary. Nothing felt certain over these last few days. The only positives were the few times some of the crew tried to lift the other’s spirits and the short talks here and there with the duke’s son. James was by no means a bad person - after all he had been the one to give the crew a chance to live - but that didn’t separate him from what his father had done. Still, small moments here and there revealed the young man to be a kind soul if not a bit naive and sheltered, one who truly did seem to want the best outcome in this scenario.

Everything was heading towards this being a safe and fast journey. The winds had favored them and the seas had not caused nary a harsh wave nearby. They were only a day’s travel away when Willy spotted something.

“Yo! Louis! I see something out in the water!” The teen’s voice made Louis stroll forward, accepting a spyglass offered to him by Prisha. The captain held it up to his eye and looked out. The sight sent his heart sinking and made a shiver run up his spine. There waving in the wind was a black flag with a skull and crossbones. Pirates. The last thing the crew needed to deal with. He was about to make the call to run but due to the knots at which the enemy ship was traveling they wouldn’t get away in time. They’d have to fight.

“It’s an enemy ship! Everyone man your station and prepare to fight!” Louis’ instructions made all the pirates run to get ready. Most of them worked to prepare the cannons while the rest made sure their weapons were in place. Louis looked around, his heart racing when he noticed that neither the captain of the privateers nor the duke’s son had retreated below decks. “James. You need to-”

The sound of the enemy’s canon cut Louis off as the shot barely missed the ship and caused a loud splash. HIs eyes shot over and grew large in disbelief. The enemy’s ship was already beside theirs. How was it so fast?

There standing on the side of the ship and holding onto one of the ropes was a man with long black hair and hard, cold brown eyes. He wore a blue pirate coat covered in an intricate design. A red sash was tied around his hip and a brown sash filled with knives lay across his chest. The collar of his white undershirt blew in the wind along with the red feather that stood tucked away in his black pirate hat. A smug, cocky smile covered his face as his ship halted to a stop. “I believe you have something of mine,”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” Louis strolled forward, his hand resting on top of the hilt of his sword. “Leave now and we can both go about our days.”

The enemy captain stared at Louis for a second before he shook his head. “Sorry, but he’s coming with me.” The man pointed his blade towards James who looked shocked by that statement.

“You can’t have him,” Louis’ words made a frown appear on the captain’s face.

“I didn’t ask for your permission!” the man spat angrily.

“What should we do, Jesse?” A man with black hair and a rapier asked the captain.

“The usual. Men, kill who you have to! We don’t leave until he’s on our ship!” With those words, grappling hooks flew through the air, hooking onto the side of Ol’ Kickass and securing the two ships in place.

Jesse swung across and landed with a hard thunk. Ricardo gave a war cry and charged forward, his sword swinging down towards the enemy pirate. But it never reached its target. Jesse sidestepped it with ease and with one move rammed his cutlass deep into the privateer’s gut. Ricardo let out a shaky gasp as he was lifted into the air and tossed to the side, his body landing in the water and staining it red. The Ericson pirates watched in horror at how easily Jesse had taken down the privateer but they had no time to focus on that.

Soon their ship was swarming with enemy pirates who attacked viciously, forcing them away from their cannons. Violet’s eyes flew around the ship, desperately trying to use her limited sight in the midst of the chaos. She saw that Prisha was in a heated duel with two pirates. Brody dashed over to help while Marlon sicced Rosie on the nearest pirate that was about to attack Louis. Her pale green eyes continued to scan the area when she noticed Jesse slowly walking towards her. She was in his way, blocking his path to James.

With a deep breath she dashed forward and swung out her ironclad knuckles towards the pirate. The captain dodged it with ease but Violet was relentless, attacking again and again, searching for an opening even though he gave none. Jesse stared at her with curiosity. He had noticed the burn marks that plagued her eyes, one of which was completely milky. She was blind and as such should be an easy opponent. He sidestpeed her attack and rushed for her blind spot, slashing out his sword with a  quick flick of his wrist. But to his surprise it was blocked by the blonde pirate’s dagger. Jesse backstepped, impressed by the block for a blind pirate. It wouldn’t deter him though; he would simply have to find a weakness and attack it.

He continued to dodge her attacks, throwing some jabs here and there to see how well she could adjust. After a few minutes he had a pretty confident idea of her abilities. With that in mind he feinted an attack to the left, causing Violet to put her defense on that side before he jabbed her side harshly with the hilt of his sword. Violet gasped out a shaky breath and Jesse used the opportunity to grab her collar to pull her closer before digging his foot into her gut and sending her flying towards the main mast. Grabbing one of his knives he tossed it towards his defeated opponent, figuring if the harsh hit didn’t do her in the knife would.

“Shit! Violet!” Sophie called out and dashed forward. Her right arm wrapped around Violet while her left blocked the incoming knife. Before the redheaded pirate had a chance to breathe a sigh of relief though her back collided with the main mast, absorbing most of the damage Violet would’ve sustained. With a cough Sophie crumbled, her grip loosening around Violet as her head fell forward.

“Sophie!” Violet turned to her friend before she grasped her side, hissing in pain. “Damn it,”

Jesse continued on but only made a few steps before a loud voice rang out. “Hey, asshole!” Mitch swung his dagger viciously towards Jesse who blocked it deftly. Mitch skidded across the deck but closed the distance between them in a minute. Again and again he jabbed and sliced with his dagger. His footwork and speed were his strength as he nicked Jesse’s arm ever so slightly. Jesse tsked, his eyes hardening as he worked to defeat Mitch. He studied him carefully, easily finding his weak point, and after a harsh blow to Mitch’s hand forced him to drop his knife the pirate captain threw him overboard.

“Mitch!” Brody called out and tried to go towards him but was blocked by more opponents. Jesse continued forward, fights breaking out and swords clashing all around him when all of the sudden he froze in place. The hairs on his arms stood straight up as he looked towards Clementine. This pirate, she was different. He could feel the aura of bloodlust radiating off her. With one look he could tell she had killed many; her aura was practically swimming in blood. Her golden eyes locked with his and hardened.

Jesse took a recentering breath and then rushed into the fight. His sword clashed with Clementine’s. Metal screeched against metal before both were pushed back. Clementine was the first to strike, sending out a flurry of well-timed and deadly attacks. Jesse carefully blocked them, his eyes studying her movements as he tried to learn her strengths and weaknesses. Both of them received cuts as the fight continued. Clementine tried to land a hard blow to Jesse’s side but he blocked it only to get punched in the face. He spit out blood with anger. His attacks grew harsher as he chipped away at her defenses until he had pushed her towards the side of the ship. Clementine swung out her sword but Jesse quickly disarmed her, causing it to fall to the deck with a faint clatter. His hand found her throat as he pushed her further and further back.

Clementine struggled, her mouth trying to reach his hand to bite it, but Jesse wouldn't give her the chance. Kicking up Clementine’s cutlass, the pirate captain caught it and jammed it into her shoulder, sliding through her flesh and embedding it into the side of the ship. Clementine let out a shaky gasp as the pain coursed through her body. Jesse took a step back, regaining his breath as he reached for a knife to finish the job.

A cry from his right, however, drew away his attention as a short redhead dashed forward. Ruby lunged, her sword raised, but Jesse simply dodged it before kicking her in the face and sending her flying back. Ruby hit the deck hard before rolling to a stop.

“You bastard!” Clementine hissed with venom as she struggled to pull the sword free. Jesse was about to unsheathe the knife when he felt another strong aura of bloodlust from behind him. It sent a shiver down his spine. Risking a look he saw Prisha sprinting to help her friend. He didn’t have time for this. Running forward he pushed a young pirate with short hair out of the way and stood before James. The duke’s son struggled to unsheathe his rapier but Jesse simply took it and tossed it into the sea.

“You’re coming with me,” Jesse gave a smug look and without waiting a second longer grabbed James and tossed him over his shoulder. Dodging battles on the Ericson deck, he ran toward the other ship. Jesse grabbed onto a rope and swung over to the other side, his men soon following suit. Within seconds the ropes were cut and the two ships were drifting apart. Jesse placed a foot on the side of his ship and looked on at the ship he had left. Many of the pirates lay wounded and dazed; the captain of the ship watched on as their ships parted, a look of terror in his eyes.

“You should've given him up right away. No one stops me from getting what I want. Until next time when we meet at Davy Jones’ Locker!” Jesse lifted his hand and gave the signal. Cannon shots rang out as the cannonballs collided and crashed against the ship. After a few seconds Jesse gave another signal to stop firing and with one final look turned around, ready to get the second part of his plan underway.

[skythealmighty]

A girl in a spider costume zooms through the sky on webs strung from her hand, whooping. A narration cuts in of a sassy teenage girl. 

“All right, let’s get this part over with. I’m not the first, and I’m certainly not the last. Cut to backstory!” she said, then snapped. The scene changed.

The girl, outside her costume, is eating a bagel. She has blond-brown hair in a messy bob, blue-green eyes, and pale skin. She’s wearing simple clothes. “My name is Skye King. In my universe, I’m one of two spider-people, though I’m the only Spider-Girl. Spider-Man is in New York. My business is in Seattle. One day, during summer break, I was bitten by a radioactive spider after my 15th birthday. You get the jist, right? Then I had spider powers, yadda yadda yadda. We’ve all heard it before. Well, the thing is, not really. That spider was from another universe (at least I'm 99% sure).” While she said all that, in the cutscene, a spider bit her on the hand and she threw it outside. “I could tell something was wrong, so I decided to cancel my hangout with my friend the next day, telling her I was sick. I couldn’t have been more wrong, but it was a good call. I absolutely trashed my room that day.” It showed Skye in her room, sticking to the bedcovers and the ceiling and her books. “Needless to say, my parents were kinda, okay super mad. Oh well, small price for a little superpower! I discovered during the next few days that I could create portals with my webs, and the first one led to the universe with the graffiti Spider-Man, Miles Morales.” Another scene showed her fistbumping with Miles, masks down on their spider costumes as they sat on top of a building. “There, I officially got my suit from Aunt May with some help. I wanted a little piece of everyone I met, so I asked Miles to decorate my costume a bit. He got the left arm, and I gotta say, it looked pretty sweet! Over the next week, I visited other universes and added to my suit a little at a time. You name them from Miles’s movie, I’ve probably visited them. Peni Parker (got a robotics upgrade from her), Noir (the guns were cool, but he also got a bit of space on my mask), Gwen (I stole her hoodie idea and went to gymnastics), Peter B. (not much, his suit’s the same as the original), and even Peter Porker (got a cartoon hammer, I love Looney Tunes)! They were all really cool, but my story isn’t about meeting them. Way too cliche, and probably done before, too. This little mini story takes place in the universe where that spider came from. So why don’t we finally get started, now that you know who I am?” The scene returned to Spider-Girl swinging from the Seattle Space Needle. She winked at the camera, and the screen turned black.

Skye yawned, sitting up in bed as her alarm went off. “Hey Google, alarm off,” she said tiredly, getting out of bed and getting dressed off-camera. She ate her breakfast, said hi to her family, packed up her backpack (not forgetting her Spider Suit), and jogged out the door to her bus stop. She napped on the bus until it arrived at school, where she was woken up by her Spidey senses. She got off the bus. “Hello again, Edison High,” she sighed, walking into the cafeteria and sitting down at a table full of older students. The narration starts. “This is my average, everyday high school, Edison High. These are my art club friends, Olivia, Jack, Darth, and.. well, they’re important to me, but maybe not to you. My other friends are Sofia, Haylie, Mitchell, AJ, and Micheal. At my high school, nobody apart from Sofia, AJ, and Haylie know I’m Spider-Girl, even though she’s the main topic of gossip. School’s boring, so I’ma skip it.” 

The scene of a high school day is fast forwarded until the very end, where she goes to the bathroom. “I’ve long since made a secret exit, and most girls don’t check the bathroom mirror, so I get dressed in my onesie there. It’s really not that hard, and I have a drone get my backpack home. That does mean I have to do my homework in class, but I’m pretty smart, so I can do it most of the time.” Skye, in her Spider-Girl suit, exits the stall and opens the mirror like a door, walking inside. She drops her backpack into a carrier drone, then opens a secret door from the inside and webs to the top of the school. “All in all, a pretty normal day. No crime at the moment, so I decided to visit another universe again. I mean, why not?” She spun her web in a circle, creating a portal, which she swung into. “I wanted a little something to add to my outfit. But that day? Fate didn’t like me one bit.” She looked around at the other portals, which had markings on them, the logos of the different Spider-Men she’d met. One of the portals was unmarked, and that was the one she swung into. As soon as she did, she attempted to make another web, but failed. “Aw, what? Talk about bad timing..” the Skye in the scene said, before yelling and slamming into the ground. “I think I’ll stop the narration now, so you can focus on the story.”

The screen was black, but then Skye opened her eyes. In front of her was a rainbow Spider-Man, upside down in front of her. She yelped and scrambled backwards in surprise, bonking her head. “Ow..” she muttered, rubbing her head. She flicked her wrist, trying to spin her web. Nothing happened. “Damnit!” she cursed.

“You okay?” the rainbow Spider-Man asked, letting go of his web (which was unsurprisingly rainbow as well) and landing on the ground. “You hit your head pretty hard.”

Skye grinned under the mask. “I’ve had worse. I mean, when you’re Spider-Girl, you gotta be able to take a few hits, right?” She got up, standing in front of the walking rainbow and looking him up and down. “I like the sugar glider wings,” she complimented. “I bet those come in handy a lot, huh?”

He smiled too (though only shown with the eyes of his mask). “Yeah, they do. So, how’d you get here anyway? Super collider?”

She shook her head. “Nah, got here on my own. Part of my powers include going to other universes, weirdly enough. My webs aren’t working, though,” she flicked her hand for emphasis, “so I’m stuck here for the moment. I don’t think that’ll last for more than a couple days, so no need to worry.”

He sighed in relief. “Good, I’m already taking care of four Spider-Children, so I don’t need more.. why are you looking at me like that?” he asked, after seeing her starstruck expression. 

“There’s more!?” she said, sort of high-pitched. She covered her mouth. “Oops. Um, basically, when I run into another Spider-Person, I want a way of remembering, so I add to my outfit.. I was looking to upgrade mine for a while, so this is perfect!”

He laughed. “Alright, I’ll take you to them. Be warned though, they’re all pretty extra in their own way.” The scene cut to him swinging her up to an apartment, setting her down.

“Thanks for that,” she said, embarrassed. “If I had my webs, I wouldn’t need you to do that, though..”

“Nah, it’s fine!” He took off his mask, grinning. “I don’t mind. I’m Thomas.” He held out his hand.

“Skye,” she said, taking it after pulling her own mask off. “Now if you don’t mind, you got some thread and needles?” He pointed her to a room. “Sweet!” she said, running in. “I’ll be back!”

After a few minutes, she came out with the same sugar glider extensions he had, but they were the bi flag instead of the gay flag. “Ta-daa!”

“Nice,” he nodded in approval. “There’s some spare clothes in the closet if you don’t mind sweats and t-shirts.”

She grinned. “That’s what I usually wear anyway!”

The screen showed a Spongebob ‘one hour later’ cutscene, then showed Thomas and Skye watching a movie. She was wearing a blue t-shirt and purple sweats. There was a knock on the door. “Come in, guys,” Thomas said, not taking his eyes off the movie. Skye, however, looked towards the door to see four different Spider-Men come through. One wore a royal outfit with flowers, hair uncovered, one wore a pink outfit with hearts and a baseball cap, one wore an outfit similar to Gwen’s with a V, and the last one wore a blue outfit that had a tie design on it and four robotic spider legs on his back. Her eyes widened.

“Okay, now I definitely need to update my outfit again!” She grinned, dashing into the room she’d been in before where her suit was. The others looked at her.

“Uh… who was that?” the one in the royal outfit asked, looking perplexed.

“You’ll see,” Thomas answered.

After a half hour, while everyone was on the couch with masks down, she came out with the suit on and mask up. The hoodie was up, and on top of it, there was a gray V like the Gwen lookalike’s mask. One of the legs had pink hearts and red flowers, and the other had the same design as the tie design but only up to below the knee. She was grinning, until she realized something. “Oh, right, I never introduced myself. I’m Skye, Spider-Girl!” she said, pulling her mask down and bowing. 

“Virgil,” said the Gwen lookalike.

“Roman!” introduced the royal one.

“Hi, I’m Patton!” grinned the pink one.

“Salutations, my name is Logan,” said the one in the tie.

“Nice to meet all of you!” said Skye, grinning and sitting down with the rest. 

A timelapse showed the day going by, nothing super interesting. The timelapse stopped at the next day during lunch, because that’s where the action is. Besides, this is supposed to be a short story, so I won’t bore you too much.

Everyone was having pizza. “Mm, they do not make pizza like this in Seattle, let me tell you,” Skye said after finishing her first slice. “I almost wish they did, but then I’d never cook for myself!”

Suddenly, everyone froze, Spidey senses going off. “Oh no, why in the middle of lunch?” Roman groaned, setting down his slice and going into one of the stalls in the corner. Everyone but Skye followed him, her going into the suit touch up room. One by one, they all emerged in their Spider suits. Thomas and his gang swung out, while Skye took a deep breath and glided after them using the addition she’d just added yesterday, since she still couldn’t use her webs. They arrived in Times Square to see the Scorpion causing trouble with the Tinkerer, again. 

“Peter always has to deal with these guys, why don’t they ever quit?” Skye asked, perched next to the others on top of a building. 

“Evil never rests?” Logan offered.

“Nah, these guys are just really annoying,” Thomas sighed. 

They all jumped down, standing in front of either the Tinkerer or the Scorpion. Virgil, Logan, and Skye were in front of the Tinkerer, while Thomas, Patton, and Roman were in front of the Scorpion. “Time to kick some ass!” Skye said, crawling up a building and launching herself at the Tinkerer. Soon after, Virgil and Logan swung at him in turn, Logan knocking the Tinkerer out of his own vehicle and taking control, which he then used to stun the Tinkerer while Virgil tied him up. Thomas swung and glided onto the Scorpion’s face, blinding him. Patton and Roman tied the Scorpion up, then Thomas kicked the Scorpion over and over in the face, temporarily stunning him. As if it was second nature for her, Skye swung using her webs and tied the Scorpion up some more, knowing her webs were stronger than the others’ by nature. As she landed on the ground, she looked at her hands and smiled. “Looks like I can go home now,” she grinned to the others. “Sorry for overstaying my welcome.”

“Nah, you’re fun to hang around with. Come back anytime,” Thomas said, waving goodbye. She nodded and made a portal, swinging through as it closed behind her. She hung in place in the middle of all the universes, making five webs above the top of the portal she just came in from. The middle one was a rainbow spider, and the other four were a gray V, a red rose, a pink heart, and a blue tie. She grinned and swung through the portal labeled ‘home’, swinging above the city. She was lucky it was Saturday, so she didn’t miss any school. But how would she explain it to her parents? She shook her head to clear her thoughts as she spotted a robbery. Good never sleeps, she thought, webbing one of the criminals with a sigh. The scene faded to black.

“Hey, don't get mad, I told you it’d be short. Cut!”

@ask-spiderverse-virgil

[welcome-to-lovecraft-country]

Misery Loves Company- Part 1

A/N: First WWE fanfic that I wrote ever! I am very excited for you all to read it. Please let me know what you all think. I was inspired by the Fiend and Seth’s feud going into HIAC to write this. I imagined the female OC off of Toni Storm. So please enjoy this as well.

Pairing(s): Seth Rollins x Platonic!Female OC, Female OC x Kenny Omega, Jon Moxley x Platonic!Female OC (minor), Becky Lynch x Platonic!Female OC (minor)

September 16, 2019

Shit. Shit. Shit.

Running through the crowded backstage area of the arena in a town that I cannot recall is somewhat normal in this business. Time often pasts by so far when RAW/Smackdown/a PPV starts backstage. All the moving parts moving together to make the thing that the people want.

Right now, my part in the complex puzzle called WWE main roster is late to get to Gorilla for my tag team match with Becky to promote HIAC. 

Getting dressed in my normal glam-punk ring gear and leather jacket (with my logo) painted in a messy orange paint on the back) is becoming my new normal since Jon left the company back in April. 

Jon, why did you leave me here, I asked myself as I dash past fellow Superstars to get to Gorilla.

Made it to Gorilla without a rant from Vince and the other road agents, sliding next to Becky waiting for our cues to go out to the ring.

“Another RAW, another tag match with the two of us. You ready, Beck,” I asked as I adjust the red-lensed sunglasses to my face from the top of my head.

“The Man and Queen of Hardcore. Are you sure that you did not want to face me at HIAC instead? I know that you wanted to get back in the title picture..”

“You and Seth deserve your titles. I have no idea what Vince and Creative have for me. It seems like after Jon left that Roman and I are stuck in limbo for a title picture.” Becky gives me a concerned look. We trained together in NXT when I was about to leave for the main roster and she was about to debut for NXT. Next to my SHIELD brothers and Renee, she became my closest friend in WWE. She gave me a quick hug.

“You are one of the best wrestlers that I ever worked with..” Her entrance music cuts her off. She mouths to me “we will talk about this later” before she walks out to the ring. 

“Next, their opponents. First, from Dublin, Ireland, she is your RAW Women’s Champion. The Man, Becky Lynch!!!”

I take a quick breath and then my music plays. {play Mz. Hyde by Halestorm}

“And her tag team partner from Seattle, Washington. The Queen of Hardcore. Stefanie Rox!!!”

The crowd was being themselves. Our opponents being Natalya (who apparently is a heel) and Lacey Evans. 

“The Internet Wrestling Community is going to be having a fit for this match,” I thought as I get into position to start this match with Natalya. She gets me into a headlock and I counter her with a leg scissors takedown. As the match goes back in and forth, the crowd chants for Becky. So I dragged Natalya to the corner and tagged in Becky. Often times, our double team moves are usually a double assisted suplex with a double elbow drop from the both of us. Today, it is finally time to use that “being the only high flyer in the SHIELD” to good use. I lift up Becky for an elbow drop so in return she can give me a boost for a moonsault of my own to Natalya. 

The crowd goes insane. Becky goes for the pin on Natalya. After a while, the match goes to its somewhat natural conclusion, Becky goes for the Disarm-her in which Lacey taps out immediately.

“The winners of the match: The partnership of the Raw Women’s Champion, Becky Lynch, and Stefanie Rox!!”

As we head into gorilla from the stage, I see my SHIELD brother, Seth ready to go out for his promo against the Fiend for their match at HIAC.

“Good match, guys! I am so glad to see my favorite women in my life kicking ass in that ring.” Becky gave Seth a quick smooch before she gave her quick thanks. I smiled at the newly engaged couple with a new sense of happiness.

“How have you been, Stef?” He gives a kind smile and brotherly kiss to my head like he always does.

“Not bad. I’m glad to see that championship on one of my brothers.” I gave him a hug that reminded me of the good old times. His music hits before he could have a chance to respond.

Seth and mine’s relationship over the years is complex to say more than one. I came into FCW as a bright-eyed 21-year-old who made her name across the West Coast indies and in CZW (in which is how I met Jon). When the idea for Jon, Roman, and Seth to become the SHIELD came to be, Jon convinced Vince to have me join and help me pose a credible threat to AJ Lee’s Divas Championship reign. Even after Seth’s betrayal on the SHIELD, we were also so close. I cried when all three of them won the WWE Championship. They supported me when I became third-ever RAW women’s champion. 

In 2017 on the tour through Japan, I met Kenny. We clicked right away. It felt like we were the Romeo and Juliet of the wrestling world. The Cleaner and the Female Hound of Justice having this torrid love affair. Two of the best wrestlers on the planet dating each other made a lot of people uncomfortable backstage. Seth was one of the few people in the business who was not really accepting of our relationship. Both me and Kenny agreed that we should keep our relationship private outside of a few people that knows us best.

Within a giant main roster, we became a family with me becoming the younger little sister. Even though, me and Jon’s relationship became the “true little brother-sister” relationship based on our experiences on the indies. It all changed in late December when Jon told me and Renee during the Christmas Break that he was not renewing his contract. I was shocked and surprised when he told me. He explained he told Renee before me.

—————————————————————————————————–

December 26, 2018

“ Are you sure about this, Jon?” Tears start coming to my eyes.

“Yes, I made up my mind about this since I went out on RAW in the backstage segment when I had to get shots in my ass.”

“I know that it sucked but you can move past it.”

“I cannot move past this anymore. I need to get out and try something new. Roman is out. Seth is being positioned as “the guy” now. You are the same position that Becky was a year ago, Stef.” 

“What are you going to do when your contract expires then?”

“Maybe start crossing off the bucket list items for my career. Maybe work in Japan. Maybe have a match for your boyfriend.”

“Kenny would love that. He keeps telling me that in the new year everything is going to change for the better.”

—————————————————————————————————–

The big thing that Kenny mentioned was All Elite Wrestling. A new promotion that gave WWE a run for its money. No BS, just good pro wrestling. I was so proud of him when I found out the news from him. I was in Japan with the Elite for the New Year as a way to get away from the stresses of being a WWE superstar and the stress that came with hearing about Jon leaving WWE. The minute came backstage for the first RAW of the new year, everyone was talking about AEW and people asking for their releases. Some had gotten them, some didn’t. The backstage environment became tense towards the loyalists of the company and everyone else. I had a six-month extension added to my contract from when I used my injury leave to spend time with Kenny during his G1 run.

——————————————————————————————————

As Seth cuts his promo on “The Fiend” Bray Wyatt, the lights in the arena cut out. Even though, I have been watching these segments for the past month backstage. I still react like I have seen the Fiend for the first time. He destroyed Finn at Summerslam. Now, Seth is going to be the second in-ring opponent of the Fiend on PPV. If Seth wins, he would get booed out arenas like Roman did for years. If Wyatt wins, the Universal title will be on him until Wrestlemania. When I heard about the feud, I started becoming more and more concerned about Seth and his well-being. 

I knew that Seth had the company on his shoulders since winning at Mania against Brock but it became more apparent when Jon made his debut at Double or Nothing by attacking Jericho and Kenny. I was already backstage in support of my boyfriend not knowing that Jon would be there. Kenny and I were both excited about the potential feud against Jon. I even supported my friend when he did the G1 (and recommended shops he should check out for the wrestling nerd in him). In the meanwhile, Seth became the company man-criticizing AEW, Jon, and Kenny Omega when given the chance. I’m so glad that he did not expose our relationship...yet.

As I watch the segment with terror and horror, a strange thought came to mind. The same thought that I had when Seth had the guts to hit me and my brothers with a steel chair over five years ago. Hungry dogs are never loyal.

[star-killer89]

MY LITTLE PONY: FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC: THE LAST PROBLEM *OPINIONS*

Daaaang, I can’t believe this is it.

After 9 years it came to an end...and so close to the actual Anniversary date too (from 10/10/2010 to 12/10/2019). If they wanted to do something special, they could have waited to conclude the series with a new season next year, since 10/10/2020 will be a Saturday, AND it will be the end on Season 10 on 10/10 after precisely 10 years! (10-ception!).

But, all in all, maybe it’s for the best, considering a lot of people, myself included, found that the last 2 to (someone even) 4 Seasons had started to fade both in quality and entertainment, so it might be better to stop here instead of keep beating a dead horse pony.

So, for the last time for this series, here’s my opinions:

I’ll start by saying I usually love time-skip final epiosdes/chapters, since I’m always pondering ‘Ok, but what happened to everyone once they defeated the final baddie(s) and went on with their lives?’

Which, unfortunately, it’s what many hate instead, since it sometimes limits the imagination of people who created their own stories set in the future for some characters or even makes canon things they might not like (especially when it comes to ships....more below).

To be honest, having Twilight transfer to Canterlot to rule over Equestria seemed really unecessary. I might understand if she still lived in the old Golden Oak Library (press F to pay your respect), but she already had a Castle she lived in Ponyville, with the seats for everyone of the other Mane6+Spike surrounding the Friendship Map from which they could rule as (almost) equals:

So why the hell did she need to move to Canterlot? Especially since we were proved time and again the Royal Guards are useful as much as the former Princesses of the Sun and Moon when it comes to protect anyone from threats!

Sad to say, unfortunately it was just a plot device to teach the lesson that ‘No matter if friends go on their separate ways, if they have a strong deep friendship, they will never grow apart’, which is good and all, but it still logically makes no sense.

One good thing though was seeing in both Canterlot and Ponyville different creatures starting to spread beyond their realms (Integration of different cultures for the win!) and that they could also apply for positions formerly given to just ponies, like Gallus having entered the Royal Guard or Yona and Sandbar taking care of Carousel Boutique, although I was a little disappointed to see that the Wonderbolts were still formed just by pegasi. How cool would have been to see Changelings, Hyppogriffs, Griffons and Dragons integrated in their ranks (damn elitist winged pony assholes)?

Speaking of Yona and Sandbar, as I said this is also the thing some people hate about time-skips: ships becoming canon or, more specifically, seeing their ship being canonically sunk.

Aside from Lyra and BonBon proposing in the last pre-ending episode and seeing them getting married on a newspaper in this episode (which I belive didn’t really upset anyone in the fandom), the other ships were really something else as for ‘dividing the fandom’.

From the episode alone, we might say that the official couples in the time-skip are:

Lyra and BonBon (as I said, made canon in the newspaper Twilight was reading while packing to move);

Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich (married and with AT LEAST 4 kids, considering Little Cheese had with her Boneless 6, since Cheese gave Boneless 1 to Pinkie which later turned into one of the keys to open the chest that contained the Tree of Harmony and he got Boneless 2);

Rainbow Dash and AppleJack (not confirmed, but very much implied with their whole discussion as they entered the room with Twilight and Spike);

Discord and Fluttershy (again, not really confirmed, but highly implied/possible);

Yona and Sandbar (once again, highly implied but never 100% confirmed, but I wouldn’t mind if they ended up together).

So, yeah.....loooooot’s of ships being sunk in the last 7 minutes of the show, with those from 3 to 5 being the most dividing ones (I myself also find odd the choice of having AJ possibly paired with RD, considered in the last few Seasons the show seemed to hint more towards a possible RariJack scenario, like the writers of Equestria Daily also seems to have embraced).

All in all, it is what it is and aside from the first two which are pretty much 100% canon, I still believe the fans may very well take those other pairings as not-couples and keep shipping the other Mane 6 with whoever they want.

As for Luster Dawn (BTW, what the hell is with Royalties and choosing to have their protégé having a name related to a portion of the day?), I found it quite clever to have her not wanting to spend time in making friends and Twilight deciding to send her to Ponyville to see the error in her reasoning:

And we also saw in the final song of the show the only indication that maybe, MAYBE the main show was connected to Equestria Gils (where so far we were only given proofs that the other way around was true, that the universe of Equestria Daily was connectied to the main show):

 Final Verdict: 8/10. A good way to say goodbye to the show.

Well, what can I say as my final thoughts? It was a wild ride in these last 8 years (since I caught up with Season 1 a few days before Season 2 started to air), with a lot of artists I discovered thanks to this show and even a small group of friends I made along the way. Some lost interest in the show or stopped to create new material for the fandom, but most of them I kept following and kept in touch with up to today, because this really is the Magic of Friendship, so I’d like to make some thanks. To Lauren Faust and the whole team of many MANY writers who created the show and kept going on even when Lauren decided to take a different way after Season 2. Thanks to Tara Strong, Andrea Libman, Ashleigh Ball, Tabitha St. Germain, Cathy Weseluck, Kelly Sheridan, John de Lancie and all the other voice actors/actresses and singers who gave their voice to our protagonists. Thanks to Hasbro, DHX Media, The Hub and Discovery Family for sharing this generation with us all. And a BIG thanks to the fandom. Whitout us, the show wouldn’t have reached this levels and wouldn’t have gone so far.

And, remember, as long as people will keep creating material with these characters, the fandom of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic will never really die!

Let’s see what Generation 5 will bring us, and as always: PONY UP!

[puzzlepcice-a]

LAYER  ONE  :  THE  OUTSIDE .

tagged by @merceditaes​ ( ty sm! ) tagging: the dash oop NAME.    clementine ( clem ) marigold wright. EYE COLOUR.    hazel   HAIR STYLE / COLOUR.   chocolate brown, in a side ponytail, shoulder-length and curly. HEIGHT.    5′2. CLOTHING STYLE.   practical and layered with high boots and two sets of hoodies on with a denim stallion jacket. BEST PHYSICAL FEATURE.   her eyes. if her mouth can’t say something, her nasty ass glare will.

LAYER  TWO  :  THE  INSIDE .

FEARS.    water, dogs, winter, illnesses, trapped in a confined space. GUILTY PLEASURE.    dancing. ( she can’t dance to save her life, but her and aj do victory-dances anytime one of them wins ) BIGGEST PET PEEVE.    injustice. even if the rules are established enough and works for everyone else, clementine cant stand when the ones in the wrong get away with it. or be protected. AMBITIONS FOR THE FUTURE.   she doesn't think too much about the future, but assuming she can hold out for that long, her ambitions are raising aj to be the man they can both be proud of. 

LAYER  THREE  :  THOUGHTS .

FIRST THOUGHTS UPON WAKING UP.   how much she needs coffee. WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT MOST.    if the hunting traps scored them any fresh rabbits, how aj is, how much medical supplies they have and other alternatives for food. WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT BEFORE BED.    her parents, where kenny is----if he’s alive, how javi, gabe, and kate are doing----if they found a new community to thrive in, wondering if lee would be proud of her and what he would say/think if he saw her now. if she’s doing okay. WHAT YOUR BEST QUALITY IS.   to her, her best quality would have to be her sense of observation. she takes keen noticed of details that many survivors miss, espesially the desperate ones, picking up on cues on whether someone is bullshitting or not to be trusted. 

LAYER  FOUR  :  WHAT’S  BETTER ?

SINGLE OR GROUP DATES.    group dates sound like less pressure, but she’s more about single dates to get to know the person one-on-one. TO BE LOVED OR RESPECTED.    respected. she’s fought for respect since she was 11 that it seems more essential than being loved. and safer.  BEAUTY OR BRAINS.   brains. looks only get you so far. DOGS OR CATS.    she doesn't do well with either. cats dont like her but she’ll try to make friends with a dog. a very, very small dog. 

LAYER  FIVE  :  DO  YOU …

LIE.    yes.  if its to protect herself and the people she loves.  BELIEVE IN YOURSELF.    about 50 / 50. BELIEVE IN LOVE.    of course. WANT SOMEONE.    she does crave companionship, but its more at the back of her mind than anything else.

LAYER  SIX  :  EVER  BEEN …

BEEN ON STAGE.    nope.  DONE DRUGS.    nope. CHANGED WHO YOU WERE TO FIT IN.   definitely. to fit into the rougher communities she’s squatted in, she couldn't be the peacekeeper she tried to be when she was younger for other people. she needed to grow thicker skin, change how she spoke to people to earn her keep.

LAYER  SEVEN  :  FAVORITES .

FAVOURITE COLOR.    yellows and purples. FAVOURITE ANIMAL.    wolves. FAVOURITE FOOD.    apples. FAVOURITE GAME.    she mostly played make-believe and tea-time with her dad!

LAYER  EIGHT  :  AGE .

DAY YOUR NEXT BIRTHDAY WILL BE.    november 2nd,  2020. HOW OLD WILL YOU BE.   19, but her canon verses are still set at 17. DOES AGE MATTER.    not one bit. you can learn things at any age.

LAYER  NINE  :  IN  A  PERSON .

BEST PERSONALITY.  resourceful. you can count on her to go to any lengths to get you anything you need ----- if she cares about you enough. BEST EYE COLOUR.    she has no preference for which one she likes best, all eye colors have something beautiful to them. BEST HAIR COLOUR.    see above!  BEST THING TO DO WITH A PARTNER.    snuggling up with each other watching the sky.

LAYER  TEN  :  FINISH  THE  SENTENCE .

I LOVE.    the sound of laughter. I FEEL.    like i’m getting better. I HIDE.    from things that overwhelm me. I MISS.    my childhood. I WISH.    no one had to die.

[the-lightning-strikes-again]

The Second Law Chapter 10 Review Replies

Thanks to the following awesome people for reviewing last time: Longpig, Carol_Pau, UltraFirelily, Veronica, anything_past_or_present, EtherealPrince, Shorthairedme, hallowhead, mutedtempest, SpinningGround, GabsSherri, TiffanyBlue, that_emo_kid_in_the_corner, PetulantPanda, sophiebystarlight, garbage_dono, Nagisa94, Teehee, AfroditeOhki, NickyADon, Angela, Touched, DestiniesEntwined, Dasha, StarrBryte, VeronikaR, Lady Experiment, LordMortem, Miss_Lily, Discordia_s_Novelist, ahyeon, reyechan, KairaB, Amanda, Tsuyu Ryu, Little Sarafina, Pen, ukellyle, katicab, barbitone, Rosenthorne, KokoaKirkland, Ammaviel, COCO_HIMECHAN, ccdancer2003, Kaytoko, Blah, pinkychan, Cherryqueem, etienne18, lucyrne, analyticamethyst, EV_Oleander, Qwennie_simon, Hiccstridlover14, lehbarnes, notEriX, GrapeIcies, and Durolin. I appreciate your support and all of your kind words and questions, so much!

You can read individual review replies below! :)

Longpig: Actual Disney Princess Lotor ™. I just love the concept. Haha, I’m glad you do too!

Carol_Pau: Thank you for your kind review! I’m not usually one for romance movies myself, but Pride and Prejudice really stood out to me. I totally agree it’s fantastic! And ahhh, I’m so happy you enjoyed Lance’s tears, haha. feel like Lance would be the type of person who would cry during movies, because he’s just so open about his emotions, even when he tries not to be. As far as other ships, some might come into play. Zonerva (Zarkon/Honerva) will definitely affect the plot going forward. But that’s about the only ship that I can really guarantee at this point. I can guarantee that James Griffin will at least appear in TSL. Thanks again for reviewing!

UltraFirelily: Thank you for reviewing as always! I’m so glad you liked Disney Princess Lotor! He’s a precious bab, and I don’t think even Lance or Romelle can entirely deny that, haha. Thank you again for your kind words and support!

Veronica: Heya, thanks for letting me know about the name change, and for providing your ongoing support for this story! I am doing better now and trying to move past the events of last fall, although sometimes I still get down about it. I’m not letting it keep me down, though! I appreciate your kind words so much!

Anything_past_or_present: Ahh, TSL Lotor really does need all the cuddles he can get!  I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed the silliness of this latest chapter—I love to see the paladins and Lotor having fun, and it was such a blast to write it, haha. Thank you for reviewing and providing support as always! It means a lot!

EtherealPrince: Bless you for enjoying the platonic Lotor and Pidge shenanigans! I’ll admit when I started TSL, it was purely with Lotura goals in mind. Since then, I’ve really come to enjoy writing the paladin shenanigans and Lotor and Pidge’s friendship. In fact, I probably enjoy writing that as much as I do Lotura, haha. I’m so glad you enjoy it too! Thanks again for reviewing!

Shorthairedme: Thank you for your review and support! Introduce Lotor to the wonders of cake, you say? What kind of cake? Maybe ALL the cakes? He’s skin and bones, so I think he could afford the extra calories at this point, haha. XD Thanks for the idea!

Hallowhead: Thank you for reviewing! I appreciate your kind words and your support! Here’s to more Disney Princess Lotor in the future!

Mutedtempest: I think you’re wonderful too! Thank you so much for your support and kindness. It means so much to me! And I’m so glad to hear you’re still enjoying the story. I hope future chapters continue to provide you a good time! And yas, I do love me some good Lotor and animal bonding time too! I hope you’re doing well, and thanks again for your review!

SpinningGround: Oh, thank you so much for your well wishes. I am doing better and trying to move past the, uh, past, haha. TSL has been a good outlet for me. And ahh, that’s hilarious that you identify with Keith in this situation of having to watch romance movies! I’m very picky about them myself. I’ve been so amused that Lotor’s voice actor, AJ, said at a recent convention that romance movies would be Lotor’s favorite. Poor Keith might have to deal with more than just Pride and Prejudice, haha. Anyway, thank you again!

GabsSherri: Muito obrigado! ^_^

TIffanyBlue: Thank you for your kind words! Yes, it does seem that no matter the platform, social media has the problem of no moral or personal accountability for words spoken anonymously. I tried to be as understanding as possible despite how the tumblr posts/reviews escalated into something exceptionally violent and personal (and illegal), because I knew there were real human beings in that mess somewhere. I just hope no one else ever has to deal with that! The whole event still leaves me in a state of loss and awe, especially over a story that was going to end in slave!Allura taking down Zarkon’s empire and turning Lotor to her side? (I figured I could spoil it for you here, since you mentioned interest in it, and spoilers just don’t matter anymore, haha.) But regardless, I will not let the past year keep me from enjoying writing, or from interacting with you all. I very much appreciate your reviews and support through these chapters for TSL. It means so much to me!

That_emo_kid_in_the_corner: Thank you for your review! And you give very sound advice about media, haha. I appreciate your support! (And I’m so glad you like Disney Princess Lotor haha.)

PetulantPanda: Oh, the space dust was everywhere for me as well! Thank you as always for your reviews!

Sophiebystarlight: Thank you for your kind review! Your note made my week great. I hope you’re having a great week as well!

Garbage_dono: Ahhh, thank you so much for your review and your well wishes. I am slowly getting to a better place, haha.  And I hope you enjoy where I take Honerva’s character in TSL. She was my favorite thing to come out of s8, and I want to do right by her. She’s a very fascinating big bad and just in general a really intriguing character. Thanks again for your support!

Nagisa94: Congrats on the new AO3 account! I’m happy to see you’re still around in the fandom as well! Things are getting better now and hopefully will stay that way now that VLD is complete. I would absolutely LOVE for Lotor to adopt Pidge? Or for Pidge to adopt Lotor? Either way, haha. And I think as far as Romelle goes, VLD did her character a bit of an injustice by not having her grow or evolve in any way, for as important as she was to the s6 plot. Even though she’s still a bit of a background character in TSL, I hope to show evolution in her character along with the other. Thanks so much for reviewing, as always! I really appreciate it.

Teehee: Bwahaha, I hope you eventually got around to reading the chapter and enjoying it. Bless you for your scream of excitement. And thank you for your kind words as well. <3

AfroditeOhki: LOL, bless you for your bullets of things you enjoyed about this chapter! I’m so glad you like the Lotor and Pidge dynamics. I enjoy writing their friendship as much as I do writing Lotura even, haha. You mentioned batter fights and shampoo wars and animal magnet Lotor, and all I can say is YES PLEASE. Thank you for your review!

NickyADon: Thank you for your review, as always! I’m so happy you thought I captured Keith and Lance’s bickering correctly, haha. I love them both and how they needle each other in so many ways. Regarding s8, I ended up laughing with a few people that I predicted the most unlikely things of all via the dead and decayed Lotors in chapter 1, haha. I hope you managed to survive the season okay. Thanks again for your ongoing support! It means so much!

Ángela: Oh, wow. Thank you so much for your well-wishes, and your kind note about dropping TSL if it would make me feel better. I’ll admit, I have days where it’s really hard for me interact with VLD content or think about writing Allura. I had a lot of chats with some professionals about the harassment experience and whether I handled the accusations correctly. I think in the end, I feel good about how I responded with taking down the story in question, as a sign of good faith that I’m not trying to hurt or trigger anyone. I just wish they would have seen the story in its full to understand it had a nuanced plot ultimately moving toward an empowered Allura and eye-opened Lotor. But, oh well. Thank you again for caring about my well-being, even at the expense of possibly losing a story! In good news, I don’t imagine I’ll be deleting TSL anytime soon! Lotor is definitely a trooper in this story for putting up with all that he does, haha. And yes, I fully believe Lance could cry in front of the other paladins, and they’d understand! I really enjoy the deep bonds of friendship that the paladins have together. Thank you again for your ongoing support and reviews!

Touched: Bless you for your kind words! Your review put a smile on my face and gave me a helpful sense of peace. I really appreciate that. Thank you so much for your support!

DestiniesEntwined: Bwahaha, bless you for being an Allura nagging Lotor over the tea. It’s appreciated, and I thank you. And ahh, no one’s ever compared me to Hunk before, but I got a huge smile from that. I adore Hunk and take that as a serious compliment. Thanks so much!

Dash: Thanks for reviewing! And no worries about the question, haha. As it turns out, I do have a few drabbles of Lotor watching other movies with the paladins, which you can find here on tumblr. At present, I have one where he watches The Mummy, and another with Indiana Jones. I’m not certain when I’ll continue this miniseries further, but I do very much appreciate your interest in it and any requests you might have for a movie or show!

StarrBryte: Thank you for your review! I’m so glad you’re still enjoying the story!

VeronikaR: Hello! In good news, I haven’t stopped writing yet, haha. And I hope to keep writing for a long time still. Thank you so much for your review and support! I really appreciate it.

Lady_Experiment: *reserves spot to reply later* >8D (If you did end up reading ch 10 by now, I hope you enjoyed it, bwahaha.)

LordMortem: Ah, your review made me feel blessed! Thank you so much for your kind words.

Miss_Lily: Thank you for keeping up the hope that I would someday update, haha. Apologies that chapter 11 has been slow coming as well. But it’ll be here soon! I’m so happy you enjoy cinnamon roll Lotor (with a dark past haha). I really have fun writing his character within the parameters of the clone!theory. And Romelle—I’m still kinda working to understand her character since she became such a minor or even forgotten character in s7 and s8 haha. I hope to do her justice here as well. Thanks again for your review!

Discordia_s_Novelist: Thank you for your kind words. I’m so glad you enjoyed this latest chapter, and I really appreciate your support!

Ahyeon: I’m glad you enjoyed the update! And yeah, people are questionable sometimes, haha. But I’m doing better now! Thanks again for your kind note.

Reyechan: Bwahaha, have I taken a spot on your mind couch? That’s fantastic! I love fluff as much as I love angst and action and everything else, so I had a lot of fun with the last chapter and am so happy to hear you enjoyed it too. And thanks for your support in regards to criticism of work. Your words mean a lot to me!

KairaB: I very much appreciate your sweet review and your support! I’m so glad you enjoyed the Lotura flirting and brownie batter scene—those parts made me giggle to write, because I was having fun too, haha. And ahh, if Lotor ever sees that picture from Pidge, I’m sure his heart would have a skipping moment. XD Regarding S8, I did see it and had been waiting for more information about Honerva before I wrote her further. So you’ll definitely see s8 elements as we  move forward. Thank you for the warm welcome back to the fandom!

Amanda: Haha, no need to apologize for real life! I completely understand how things get busy. But thank you so much for returning to read and review as always! I’m coming to understand the importance of taking care of myself, and a part of that was realizing how much creative writing means to me, and how I shouldn’t let anyone take that away from me. I might still need to take breaks at times, but for now, I’m steaming forward with TSL and AR. I’m so happy you loved this latest chapter! I hope you continue to enjoy future updates, and thanks again for your ongoing support!

Tsuyu Ryu: Thank you for your interest in my story! I know Lotor’s canon arc was not quite what a lot of people hoped to see, and I struggled with it as well due to the plot holes behind the whole instigator for his death and his subsequent, unexplained s8 redemption as a good-ish guy by Allura who hated him? Haha. I hope to provide him a little more consistency in TSL at least, and I hope to continue making Romelle a likeable character in some way. Thank you again for your review and your support!

Little_Sarafina: Bless you for leaving a review, when I know just how easy it is to remain a silent reader only, haha. (Guilty as charged in many fandoms.) Thank you so much for your kind words about this story. I really appreciate it!

Pen: Oh, wow, thank you for your high praise! I feel humbled by that and am so glad you enjoyed the chapter. I appreciate your kind words and support!

Ukellyle: Thank you for the compliment on TSL Lotor! I try really hard to keep him within the realm of his canon character, even though his circumstances in TSL are vastly different. It’s a struggle, so I’m happy you like him! Thank you for the review!

Katicab: You binged all these chapters in two days? Well bless your heart for your dedication, haha. Thank you for your kind words! There’s so much expanse within Lotor’s character—I have a lot of fun exploring what he would do in any given situation. I do try to keep him from being OOC, though, and sometimes that’s hard with hurt/comfort haha. I’m glad you enjoy this! Thank you again for your review!

Barbitone: Thanks for your reviews! Sorry I ripped your heart out at one point, haha. Lotor does that to me as well. XD

Rosenthorne: Hello, and thank you for reading and reviewing. Wow, you read it all at one time—that’s impressive considering how much I ramble while writing. XD I appreciate your kind words and hope you like where the plot goes with Honerva’s appearance in chapter 11!

KokoaKirkland: Thank you for your review!

Ammaviel: Ahh, I hope you have survived! Thanks so much for your review!

COCO_HIMECHAN: Thank you so much for both your high praise in your AO3 review and in your message here on Tumblr! Apologies I’ve not gotten to the tumblr message yet—I’ve been sequestered working on chapters, haha. My hope is to catch up on my tumblr inbox after I update. Please know your kind words mean so much to me, and thank you for your support!

Ccdancer2003: Ahh don’t cry! *Offers a tissue and a blankie and some chocolate.* Lotor melts my heart a little too, haha. Thank you for reading and reviewing!

Kaytoko: Thank you for your review and for your compliments on how I write the paladins! I really enjoy Hunk as a character and want to do right by him, haha. He’s such a precious cinnamon roll! I appreciate your support!

Blah: Yooooooo. XD Hey, thanks for reviewing, even if you thought the story was sad, haha.

Pinkychan: Thank you for reviewing! Haha, I’m so glad you liked that brownie batter and chocolate virginity scene. I feel like the paladins would definitely have these kinds of inside jokes and teasing all the time. XD I’m hoping the paladins can introduce Lotor to other Earth things—so if you have any requests there, let me know. Thanks again!

Cherryqueem: Ah, yes, s8 was definitely a heavy-hitting season. I’m so happy you found what you were looking for in my story. Thank you so much for reading and reviewing!

Etienne18: Bless you for continuing to participate in the fandom even after s8, and ahhh it means so much that you’ve chosen to re-read my story! Slow burn Lotura is definitely a favorite of mine. I’m glad you enjoy it too! Thank you for reading and reviewing!

Lucyrne: Oh, thank you so much for your high praise on Allura and Lance’s characterization! I really do love Allura, and I think the canon series didn’t give her a chance to actively reflect on the avalanche that was s6. I think it would have been natural for her to have conflicted feelings for Lotor, even in knowing what he had done. I think in a better world, Allura would have understood the political implications of killing an emperor in secret—and would have wanted a guilty!Lotor to pay for his crimes the right and open way, through a court trial before the universe. That’s the Allura I was trying to channel in chapter 1, and I’m so glad you enjoyed her conflict and her ultimate decision! And for as much as a lot of people rag on Lance, I really like that boy. I think he’s precious for a lot of reasons, haha. XD Regarding Lotor, I really try to portray stories of abuse in a serious manner, because I know so often it’s not treated that way, and in doing so hurts people. I’m glad you found my portrayal satisfactory! And for real, thank you so much for all of your wonderful reviews as you read through the story up to this point. I really appreciate it!

Analyticamethyst: Bless you for binging this story, omg haha. For as much as I love Lotura, I equally adore platonic bonding between Lotor and other characters and am so glad you enjoy that too. The dude needs positive friendships desperately, haha. Thank you so much for your review!

EV_Oleander: Thank you for reading and reviewing! I hope you enjoy future chapters as well!

Qwennie_simon: Thank you for your compliments and for your support! :)

Hiccstridlover14: Oh, wow, that is a high compliment. The Lotura archive contains many great stories, so it means a lot to me that you would place this one so high on your list. Thank you so much for reading and for your support!

Lehbarnes: Oh, thank you for reading both Second Law and Adrenaline Rush! I’m so happy to hear that you enjoy these stories, and I really appreciate you reviewing. Thank you!!

NotEriX: Oh my goodness, bless your heart for binging this in one go and staying up super late into the night to read, at the expense of valuable sleep. I do hope you managed to get some sleep after that! And I really appreciate your high compliments in regards to my emotion/humor cadence. It’s harder in some situations than others, but I try not to let one be completely unchecked by the other. I find that real life is a curious balance of both, and often at the same time, haha. Anyway, thank you again for your kind review and support!

GrapeIcies: Thank you for reviewing! And yeah, the canon show could never seem to decide whether Lotor’s ultimate ethos was a sly, genocidal maniac or actually just a good person stuck in an impossible Trolley Problem. I agree that the result was a sticky mess from which I could see no consistent atonement/justice (if he were truly guilty) or genuine redemption of his character (if he were truly innocent/an ultimately good antagonist or antihero). Through TSL, I hope to offer a deeper exploration into and progressive evolution of Lotor’s character. TSL might not always have Lotor getting therapy and lots of hugs, but I can guarantee that I will do my best to show his full range. Thank you again for your review!

Durolin: Oh wow, thank you for your very kind words! Your review put a smile on my face and inspired me to trudge through a bout of writer’s block. I really appreciate your review and support!

[zellybelly]

Shaken To The Core

Ello! On a clouis high, but then, when am I not? They are so fucking cute. I’m sorry Vi! I love you both! <3

Warnings: Angst, Death, Tears. Lots of tears. 

Summary: What happened after the bomb blew?

Side note: In a universe where Clem and AJ stayed with them for a few months before Marlon turns full asshole. Just cause it would make more sense for all of the emotions flying.

You can skip this, but I changed up the timeline a bit so it would fit better.:

The car crash, all of the beginning of the episode until the second morning they were there. Clem went hunting with Aasim and Louis. She hunted, wanting to be able to catch some food but eventually joined up with Louis for some batting practice. Seeing that they had a greenhouse, Clem pushed for them to restore it, offering to take charge of it, since everyone else seemed hesitant. She got it up and running again with Brody and Ruby’s help. One day, while hunting, more like batting around with Louis, who she had grown close with, they found out someone fucked with their traps. And that’s where the rest of the episode kicks off. However, when the confrontation happens in the courtyard, Ruby and Louis were on Clem’s side, to begin with, knowing her to not be that kind of person.

Episode 2 kicks off. And everything is pretty normal, plot-wise, except when Clem and AJ are brought to the edge of the safe zone, she had a heartfelt goodbye with Louis, giving him one final hug. When they get back, Louis and Clem talked while AJ recovered, eventually sparking in a romance one night. (I moved the Louis romance scene to before the 2-week flash forward).

After that... everything is pretty much the same. Lily is dead in this. AJ shot her.

Well, got all that? Okay, let’s get started. 

I might just rewrite the series, with this, I dunno

The river looked like it was on fire. From the opposite bank, where the dock was, it was like the water had been lit ablaze. Many walkers were attracted to the sound, but many of them ignored the kids, only a few caught sight and those that did were taken care of. 

Louis was the only one still there on the shore. Ruby, with Aasim and Omar, had gotten the horses and hay, taking them back to the school. And according to the plan, they burned some of the supplies, while they took the rafts when they were distracted.  

As soon as they had heard the bomb, Louis just had to go back. He wanted to make sure they were okay. When he got there, he didn’t see anyone. As he waited, Tenn and AJ had shown up, helping each other make it to the shore. 

But there was no sign of Clementine. He looked everywhere, but there was no sign of his girlfriend, not her amber eyes, not even her signature hat. 

“Clem!” He resorted to calling out. The fire on the boat blazed to life, the large metal floaty sinking into the dark waters. “Clem!” His voice was cracked and hoarse.

Eventually, he couldn’t take it, he ran into the water, up until his knees. The water splashed against his waist. It chilled his skin, feeling like it sunk to the bone almost instantly. “Clementine!” He cried out into the empty air, only to get no response. 

He saw movement. He couldn’t see who, but he ran towards them, ignoring the stinging pain of the chilled water. He grabbed them, and help to pull them up. They had someone else with them. Louis, being well, Louis, helped them get to the shore. They were coughing, both of them. To his relief, but also his disappointment, it was Violet and Minnie. They were soaked to the bone, no doubt freezing. “Vi!” He wrapped his arms around her, holding her close. He felt her do the same, but also quickly pulled back. “Violet?” He whispered, looking into her pained green eyes.

“The fuck did she do...” Violet looked behind her, towards the boat, which was almost fully sunk. But her gaze wasn’t mournful, but filled with hate and disdain. “She almost got us all fucking killed.”

“No, she didn’t.” Louis defended. “She tried to get you all back, and she did. You’re all fine. No one from the school died.”

Violet looked away. “Yeah. Look at what has happened around us. She let us be taken.” Her voice was bitter, though it was wavering. 

“She couldn’t save everyone. At least she didn’t willingly trade people away.” He snapped. Marlon was his best friend, but what he had done left him feeling bitter about his actions.

“What’s the difference?”

“She at least tried to prevent them from getting in.” His voice was weak and tired now.

“And look how that turned out.” (I’m making Violet an asshole. I’m sorry. I love her, but this is going off Louis’ route. And she was pretty bitter, even admitting that she would kill Clem if it came down to it.)

He just stared at her. Then back to the boat. “You’re not even sad?” He couldn’t look at her. “After all that she has done, in an effort to keep us safe... you’re not even somewhat sad?” His voice rose.

When Violet looked up at him, her eyes sparkled with surprise. Louis’s eyes were full of pain, he was biting his lip to keep the tears from flowing. “Maybe.” She admitted, “but-”

“Clem!” Louis cried, seeing another person emerge from the water. It was James, and in his arms was the dark-skinned girl he loved. He dashed forward, back into the water, towards them. He stumbled, getting his shirt wet, but he didn’t pay any mind to it. 

She was pretty beat up. Bruises, and small cuts on her arms. One scratch was under her cheek, surrounded by a purple bruise. She still had her hat on, the D showing off in pride. He took her in his arms, holding her limp body to his chest. 

“Oh god, Clem.” He whimpered, leaning his forehead against hers. She was breathing, but it was weak. He walked back to the shore. Louis crouched down, setting her on the ground, kneeling beside her. Her hand was in his, stroking his thumb over her bloodied knuckles.

The others joined by her, even Violet and Minnie. Though Minnie only probably came because Violet did. 

AJ sat on her opposite side, looking down in horror. Tears were streaming down his face. Never before had he looked more like a young boy then he did at that moment. 

Her eyes were barely open, but from what he could see, they were dull. Though she was breathing, they were shallow, and it was like they were shortening and becoming more shallow. 

She coughed, her body jerking with the gasps and chokes. Louis slipped a hand under her back, bringing her closer to him, in an effort to keep her warm.

“She won’t make it.” James' voice was hollow. They all looked to the young man in horror. His back was turned, his dark hair dripping. He turned to them, and his face was scrunched in emotional pain. He knelt by her, fishing out duct tape from his pocket. Without any words he wrapped a decent amount around her wrists, binding her. 

“What are you doing?!” Louis cried, pulling her closer.

“She’s going to turn.”

“No!” Louis wailed. He looked down at her. He could barely see her chest move. She was... she was dying. “Fuck, fuck, fuck.” He whispered, looking at his girlfriend in panic.

That was nothing compared to AJ though. Once it was heard, he had fallen to his knees, in shock. His eyes were just locked on Clem. His protector. His family.

Violet and Minnie moved away, giving Louis and AJ, who was being comforted by Tenn, to say their goodbyes. 

“What will you do?” Louis looked up to James who was looking down at the woman in his arms with sorrowful eyes.

“Excuse me?”

“Are you going to let her turn?” Louis’ eyes widened in horror. He looked down at his girlfriend. Her breaths were almost none. She didn’t have much longer.

“I... I...” He couldn’t answer. He didn’t want her to turn, but he didn’t think he could... put her down.

“She doesn’t have much time, you need to say your goodbyes,” James spoke the obvious, though if he hadn’t, Louis probably wouldn’t have done anything. 

The dark skinned man leaned his forehead against hers. He placed his lips on hers, in one final kiss. The last goodbye. Her hand weakly moved up to his chest, gripping the material.

That was it for him. Tears fell down his face, his sobs echoing, striking everyone to their core. “I love you... your Majesty.” He cracked a pained smile, affectionately calling her by the nickname they’d given each other. 

He stood, and backed away from her body. Her breathing had slowed, until her body gave a shudder, before going limp. Louis placed his hand on AJ’s shoulder, bringing him back too. The small group of people stared at the body. The once lively and expressive girl, ready to defend anyone she cared for, was gone. 

He closed his eyes once he saw her body shifting again, gurgled groaning filled the night. 

He pushed AJ towards the group, finally opening his eyes. 

He wished he never did.

Her once beautifully dark skin, now pale and gray. Amber eyes glazed over in a milky haze, unable to focus on anything. Her mouth moved around, awful sounds erupting from her throat. When her eyes made contact with his, her efforts to stand doubled snapped her jaws at him. He just stared down at her. A burning tear fell down his cheek, onto hers. It caused her to pause momentarily. She groaned, staring up at him. Almost like she was admiring him.

His bit his lip to hold back his whimpers. He dug out the knife from his pocket, holding it tightly. He kneeled down by her, and avoiding the teeth, caressed her cheek one last time. “I’m sorry...” He whispered.

He plunged the knife down, and the groaning stopped. It was silent.

Yep. Clem dead. This is my sick twisted mind, but I always like finding an ending where the character died, just to see what would happen.

Now, I don’t want Clem to die, obviously, but I do want to seem some sort of reaction when say... death scenes happen. Especially if it’s right in front of other people or something.

[marvelandponder]

Bling-Bling, Darlings

Really, what we’re asking when we pose a question like that is what is Rarity’s character based on. It’s more than fair to say at this point the Elements of Harmony themselves are obsolete, but they undoubtedly helped to form the characters and set a course for their development in the series as a whole. 

And since the real aim of this post is to map Rarity’s character-arc over the course of all 7 seasons and counting, it only made sense to me to start at the beginning.

Or, rather, before the beginning, in the show’s very development!

Once upon a time, when Lauren Faust first dreamed up our main cast, all the Elements were pretty well the same as what they would be in the show. All, except Rarity. Before she was the Element of Generosity, she was the Element of Inspiration.

When I was looking over Rarity’s biggest lessons and teachings, I found that the themes of inspiration and creativity carried over into the show in interesting ways. Not just that she’s a dressmaker, and uses her medium to bring out the beauty in others, but that that creativity may have turned into her biggest character flaw. Her greatest tool and yet her biggest burden.

I think Rarity’s generosity still very much defines the core of who she is, but what I’ve always admired about Rarity is her complexity. Her versatility, her presence. All of these things are owed, in part, to the theme of her development: Expectation Versus Reality.

Of course, this is just my interpretation, but as far as I see it, this over-arching theme usually presents itself in either one of three ways:

How we see Rarity, and how she really is

How others see Rarity, and how she really is

And most importantly, how Rarity's flights of fancy (emphasis on the fancy) conflict with reality

So, this fashion week, I’d like to take some time to appreciate the true beauty that is Rarity. Finally. With this, every member of the main 6 finally has their own editorial (I... clearly didn’t time this out well), and so it seems we saved one of the best for last. Here’s to you, Rarara!

A Tale of Two Rararas

From the beginning, we knew Rarity always dreamed of living in Canterlot. And already, I want to pause in the episode-by-episode run-down to say the fact that Rarity never conflicts with Twilight over this just speaks to her strength of character. 

Sure, there are certainly times when Rarity can be petty, but as Green Isn’t Your Colour proved very early on, even when she does feel envious, her selfless, giving nature wins out, and she won’t hold it against anyone. A far cry from most diva characters, isn’t she?

But to round back to the point, I always found it a tad ironic Twilight lived the life Rarity thought she wanted. Growing up in Canterlot, rubbing elbows with nobles and royalty, and even becoming a princess. The glamour! The intrigue! The... socially awkward bookworm who saw none of these things as opportunities to be taken advantage of.

A part of me thinks that if Rarity were to grow up in Canterlot instead of Twilight, that Rarity wouldn’t be nearly as down-to-earth as ours is. And whether she’s self-aware enough to realize that or not, Rarity’s never once begrudged Twilight for living out some of her dreams. Instead, she’s just dying to hear about it and support her.

Which leads us to the first major Rarity storyline, in Ticketmaster: wanting to marry a Prince she hasn’t met. This is, of course the set-up for an example of what I was talking about early, the whole expectation versus reality thing with Rarity’s fantasy of a perfect love life coming into conflict with the reality of the jerk she was fantasizing about.

So, we next move onto Look Before You Sleep, and it’s here where we give props to the Rarijack shippers: they’re not wrong that this relationship is cute and important. 

This touches on the second part of the theme that I mentioned, how other characters continually learn that Rarity is more than meets the eye. Applejack and Rarity getting to know each other on a deeper and deeper level throughout the series is one of the bigger demonstrations of Rarity’s true depth.She’s not just about frilly dresses and all things frou-frou, as AJ initially believed.

In fact, to skip ahead by one, she’s not your damsel in distress or the frightened princess, either. A Dog and Pony Show is among the classics of season 1 in my book because it’s one of the first times they just straight up tell you Rarity’s resourceful and capable without mincing words. Because hell yeah.

That’s one of the episodes that really play with audience expectation for Rarity, and having it relatively early on was an excellent way to establish Rarity has more character depth than most other fashionista characters in shows for little girls.

Going back to the one we missed, you’ll find another true classic: Suited for Success. I could argue this has a connection to both of the Elements Rarity was initially thought to embody. Her generosity is on full display, not only making these dresses out of the goodness of her heart, but tailoring them to each of her friends’ tastes despite being a fashion expert herself. Then of course there’s the inspiration or creative aspect of it, how Rarity’s struggles perfectly emulate the struggles of real-life professional creatives trying to please all kinds of picky customers.

To add on, I just want to say this episode made me admire Rarity quite a bit. Both her determination to make her friends feel beautiful and her savvy business tactics combined with her creative passion are wonderful traits to have at her core. As entertaining as her dramatics can be (a special thanks goes to Tabitha St. Germain, who never once makes Rarity’s explosions of emotion anything but endearing), have not one but two deeper layers to Rarity makes for an excellent main character.

As we would come to see, both of those core traits have their pitfalls. Green Isn’t You Colour is a fun example, though, because it plays on the negative side to Rarity’s Inspiration Element and yet the positive side of her Generosity. Rarity’s always dreamed of living the glamorous life of a famed seamstress, which leads to her being envious of Fluttershy when she gets to live that out (by the way, if you hadn’t guessed by now, Rarity’s extremely relatable to all creative types). And yet, it’s her giving nature that stops her from being selfish and greedy. 

Next in chronological order is the Cutie Mark Chronicles, and this is one of my bigger arguments for the theme I’ve been talking about so far.

So, Rarity’s horn leads her to a rock, and I think with that long build-up of being dragged all over, there’s that expectation being built up in little Rarity’s mind that this must be important. Again, her tendency to dramatize things gets the better of her. Which is why she freaks out when she gets there and it’s just a big dumb rock---but we all know the rock itself breaks her expectations even further when it’s broken, revealing the true beauty deep within the layers.

Expectation, meet reality.

Speaking of, the Best Night Ever is all about that theme, and I think it goes without saying how Rarity experiences it firsthand like the rest of the girls.

Next up is Sisterhooves Social, and I could make the argument that Rarity’s expectations for her little sister not accounting for her well-meaning intent is what causes the conflict. As well as the fact that the reality is, as a little filly, Sweetie Belle isn’t yet capable of garnishing a breakfast the “proper” way, or doing laundry without shrinking the clothes. Rarity’s an adult with adult responsibilities, so really the lesson becomes about appreciating that inner-beauty/good intent that her little sister has while forgiving the lack of ability.

Then, Sweet and Elite happens, which is probably my favourite Rarity episode to date, in part because it reminds me of an excellent Simpsons episode, Scenes from the Class Struggle in Springfield. Rarity’s had dreams of living in Canterlot since before the first episode, expertly demonstrated by the song The Type of Pony Everypony Should Know.

But even though there are wonderful elites like Fancy Pants in Canterlot, Rarity finds the bullshit of devaluing ponies like her friends is in fact pretty damn toxic, and that the social hierarchy that she’s admired for so long would put ponies she loves at the bottom. Again, awesome episode, really demonstrates what you might think would be a simple story about Snooty Rich People v.s. Humble Country Bumpkins into a story about a character’s changing worldview on class systems.

After that, we move onto Rarity Takes Manehatten and--- wait, that can’t be right... What do you mean there wasn’t a Rarity episode for almost two seasons?!

I seriously had to have this pointed out to me by the ever insightful @digikate813 because as much as I love Rarity, I didn’t even notice until I really looked.

In part, you could argue because Rarity got so many episodes and starring roles in season 1, that might’ve been the reason they held off on developing her in season 3 (that, and obviously the shortened 13 episode run), but still, not a fun time to be a Rarity fan.

Anyway, Rarity Takes Manehatten. Season 4 was all about showing how the characters could either betray their Element, like Rainbow Dash and Applejack, or be betrayed by it, like Pinkie, Fluttershy, and of course Rarity. Twilight ended up literally having to choose between magic and friendship (which, by the way, still shocks me that her fatal flaw is that, to quote my favourite book series from my childhood, she “would give up the world to save a friend”...). 

And for Rarity, her episode ends up being the antithesis to Green Isn’t Your Colour, where she’s at her best creatively, but her giving nature ends up biting her in the ass. And yet, it’s still the same overarching theme: with the blind trust she places in Suri Polomare with her fabric, Rarity fully expects that Suri is well-meaning. She doesn’t even for a moment hesitate until it’s too late, and the reality of, as Suri puts it, being in the big city.

After that, it’s time for more Rarijack, as we take a look at Simple Ways. Essentially my take away from the episode in terms of Rarity’s overall arc is that she and Applejack, at this point, know each other better than they know themselves, which continues the theme of looking below the surface to find the true beauty within.

Speaking of true beauty, next we have Inspiration Manifestation, which is the episode I first thought of when thinking about the theme of this post: that in some ways, they ended up using Rarity’s old Element of Inspiration as her biggest flaw.

Yes, you can argue that the greedy Rarity we see in Return of Harmony is the literal antithesis of our beloved fashionista, but you can’t deny that the delve into the dark side of Rarity’s dramatic imagination and expectations for how things should/will be much more, this episode being the prime example.

Under the dark magic’s influence, Rarity’s version of Ponyville is... really gaudy. Gold paved streets gaudy. What’s interesting about that is that it becomes more about glory than it is about making it aesthetically pleasing, because when she comes out of it, she seems really taken aback by it. This wouldn’t be Normal Rarity’s ideal Ponyville, it’s just a way of showing herself as the most creative, most beloved pony there is.

And honestly, again, Rarity is extremely relatable to creative types. How many of us have wished we could just manifest our creative thoughts instantly, no work required (but would probably end up abusing that power if it were real)?

Continuing on, we have Canterlot Boutique next, and as Rarity’s very own Magical Mystery Cure or Crusaders of the Lost Mark, it really does emphasize the theme I’ve been talking about. Rarity’s expectations for owning her own boutique in Canterlot and creating a dress known all across Equestria comes into direct conflict with the reality of the business aspects of it all. 

To the point that her business manager is made to seem to the audience like a villain for a while there, until Rarity finds the solution and we realize Sassy Saddles isn’t evil, and can in fact help Rarity’s dream. Even the solution itself is to make her business (manager) work by her rules, and cultivate her creative expression. An excellent episode for an excellent end-cap to Rarity’s goal.

Now, here’s a question: did Rarity’s character arc end when her goal was reached?

Drama Horse Sans Drama?

Because up until this point, that whole expectation V. reality thing has mostly been centered around Rarity learning how to be more grounded, appreciate intentions as opposed to results, and realize her dreams of living the high life often don’t take into account what that might actually entail.

But in Canterlot Boutique, well, she did learn the harsh reality of that situation, but I don’t know that she applied it universally, realizing that she herself didn’t account for how difficult it might truly be.

I think it was a huge step in her development, but she’s far from done growing, and far from done being overdramatic about things. But there is a shift after this to Rarity teaching others.

Rarity Investigates! is an easy example. Rainbow Dash doesn’t have faith in Rarity’s deduction skills because she assumes(/expects) that Rarity’s focus on details is only frivolous.

In Made in Manehatten, Rarity’s main role is to reassure Applejack that even if she’s out of her element, she’s still useful and contributing. On the flip-side, Applejack’s “Day” Off demonstrates how close they are by having Rarity make Applejack relax for once.

The Cart Before the Ponies is an exception to many things, though. Here, Rarity’s once again the one in need of a lesson, as she gets lost in her pursuit of righting a past wrong to the point that she’s blind to the reality of her sister currently wanting to try making her own cart.

P.P.O.V. might seem to buck the trend of Rarity and Applejack understanding each other, but I think that’s due in part to how each character was trying to get out of their element, and thus, totally confused the ones who know them so well. So, yes, Rarity doesn’t understand the “sea madness” Applejack has.

Moving on up to season 7, Forever Filly has Rarity again in the student role, learning the opposite of what she did in Sisterhooves Social. There, it was that Sweetie was too young to be as capable as Rarity expected of her, but here, it’s that Sweetie Belle can’t stay young forever. I see what you did there, writers.

Honest Apple shows Rarity helping Applejack not be a dick about her opinions, and giving young, up-and-coming fashion designers a platform she would’ve killed for at their age. What a good horse.

And then we have Fame and Misfortune, an episode that showcases, among many other things, Rarity’s response to harsh criticism. The episode sets out to prove the mane 6 still have flaws, and it certainly does, proving that even though Rarity’s learned quite a few lessons, that Element of Inspiration in her/her creative side still wants to be loved and valued for her work.

But I’ll leave us off on her part in Campfire Tales, because while it may be a small role, it proves, in essence, what Rarity truly values is a blend of both the Elements I’ve been rambling about. Rarity admires Mistmane not for her popularity or status, but for the way she gives to others by spreading beauty. Generosity and Inspiration combined.

Just like Rarity herself whose proved herself more entertaining, more heartfelt, and more beautiful than meets the eye. I wouldn’t say she’s done growing, but whether it’s the knowledge she’s gained through personal growth or fashion advice, Rarity will always share beauty.

I do MLP editorials like this and MLP episode reviews for all your MLP needs! and here’s the last three things I did, featured:

Triple Threat Review, Campfire Tales Review, and Top 10 Lost MLP Content

Also to celebrate finally finishing all members of the mane 6, take a look here to see me go through the other girls’ character arcs and other mane cast related topics:

Sunset, Pinkie, Rarity, Spike, Twilight, Starlight, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack editorials

Year of the Pony

Header Image Wouldn’t be Possible Without...

Rarity by Flizzick Fancy Rarity by RegolithX

Go check out those talented artists!

Yours Ever, R

[darkcloud-kcalifornia]

Alright, season finale time for My Little Pony.  I’ve been trying to avoid spoilers for this one.  No idea what’s going to happen.  So, let’s see what goes down in “Shadow Play”

* We open on the book that got the ominous sting at the end of the last episode.  So yeah, I guess we were in the finale then.

* Huh, a different set of Elements being talked about here.  OK, we’ve got Rockhoof as Strength, Flash Magnus as Bravery, Meadowbrook as Healing, Mist Mane as Beauty, Somnambula as Hope, and who I’m guessing is Star Swirl the Bearded as Sorcery.  [note to self: look up actual names]

* And apparently they had been gathered together by somepony else to embody their ideals, like the Mane 6 were.  Was this Celestia, or somepony else?

* Ooh, the gatherer was a unicorn stallion, but the ancient Elements came to believe he was just wanting to use their power for himself and so they cast him out.

* Then he became Shadow Pony, and the Pillars stood as one against him.  They beat him but had to make some kind of sacrifice to do so, and created a seed to carry hope to the future.  I wonder, was that seed the origin of the Tree of Harmony?  I’m also seeing the emergence of the sun and moon on the sides of where I have it paused right now, so maybe it’s the origins of Celestia and Luna?

* Incidentally, I am loving this lore dump.

* Oh good, Sunburst was smart enough to make a report on this directly to the Alicorn Sisters and the Mane 6.  I guess he knows who has to deal with all the destiny crap around here.

* Huh, apparently Celestia never knew what happened to Starswirl, but these were apparently his last words before vanishing.

* OK, so Celestia and Luna were around back then, but young and had only ever met Starswirl.

* Reluctant nerd hoofbump. Also, I like how Celestia doesn’t know much Old Ponish anymore due to disuse.  It’s a nice nod to what happens when you don’t use something.  I can’t imagine how bad it would be after 1000 years. I’m a bit surprised Luna isn’t more familiar with it though, given how she spent most of the time sealed away. Unless she was fully cognizant of the passage of time during those 1000 years, which is… fairly nightmareish.

* So, more to Old Ponish than she thought, actual other languages being used, or Starswirl just had horrible hornwriting.  You decide!

* Ah, sloppy writing. Only readable by somepony who is ever worse at that kind of thing.  Anyway, the last stand was at the Temple of Ponhenge at the base of Mt. Foal.  …OK, I know they try and fit in horse puns, but “Ponhenge”?  Surely they could have done better than that.

* Those ruins look nice and ruiny.  Also not much like Stonehenge, which again makes me wonder why they referenced that.

* Be careful what you wish for Twilight.  Also, be careful where you place ancient magical tomes.

* Ooooh, ancient holographic display of the final battle.  So, sealed away, and the objects each pony carried are somehow related. Well, they’ve got the book, and they know where the mask is at least, so that just leaves the flower, the blindfold, the shield, and the shovel.  Gonna be honest, might be hard finding a flower after 1000 years.

* Never underestimate Twilight’s ability to be a nerd.

* Right, so banished to Limbo, but they had to take him there themselves and so got stuck there with him.  …Who’s gonna be the idiot to try and get them out and release the Pony of Shadows in the process?

* Twilight!  Twilight shall be that idiot!  Come over here so I can slap you!

* RD does not like demonstrative models.

* Boo!  The Map stepping in to help the search is cheating! Although this might be seen as the Tree of Harmony trying to get its parents back.  Kinda touching if you think of it like that.

* Skeptical archeologist is skeptical.  Somepony should tell her she’s in a fantasy series.

* Had no idea AJ was that strong.  Oh well, Shovel Get!

* Rarity’s problem to overcome is crappy gardening?  I can’t say I think much of Mist Mane’s descendant if it never occurred to her to, you know, perform upkeep.  Or hire others to do it.  Heck, just apply for a government grant if money’s the problem, that place has got to be a historical site, and once you attract tourists you can get money for, you know, upkeep.  Flower Get.

* Actually Flash Magnus’ shield being in the Dragon Lands makes quite a bit of sense.  It was made to combat dragons after all.  Makes sense that either it would accidentally get left behind after an expedition, or stolen by the dragons to keep it from being used.

* Also, neat to see a Spike/RD teamup, even if it’s likely gonna last a minute or two of screentime.

* Ugh, seriously, Garble has it?  Somepony just kick that idiot in the face so this can be over with.

* Garble is stupidest dragon.  Seriously, he just got outwitted by Rainbow Dash.  Well regardless, Shield Get.

* Fluttershy… just help to move the zap bee hive, and didn’t even need to do that to get the mask. She just felt like it.  But then arguably her trial was a few episodes ago anyway.  Mask Get.

* Pinkie’s trail… was very Pinkie.  And that ooze was a lot less dangerous then they made it out to be.  Um, Blindfold get?

* How is Starlight the voice of reason with regards to the risk involved in this plan?

* Why didn’t Pinkie wash that thing before bringing it >P

* Oh, gee, Starswirl is horrified that somepony broke the seal what are the odds?

* Way to summon the ancient evil, Twilight.

 And there’s the end of episode 1.  Time for a stretch and snack I think.  Let’s all go to the lobby, let’s all go to the lobby…

 * Yeah, having a backup plan in case the ancient evil escaped as well would have been a great idea, Twilight.  You still have that slap coming.

* Twilight and Starlight are able to hold the PoS back with a double tech… but can’t stop him from escaping at the speed of dark.  Nice going, Twilight.

* On one hoof, having the person you’ve revered all your life give you the dirtiest look for your incompetence must suck.  On the other, she really has this coming.

* Heh, Pinkie pointing out all of the other threats they’ve had to save Equestria from is a good one. And I like how Magnus is totally down for teaming up with the modern heroes to beat PoS into submission.  But Starswirl is going to be an absolute grumpy gus about this.

* Yay, source of Tree of Harmony, and the Elements, confirmed!

* And now Starswirl is planning on sacrificing the Elements to seal PoS again.  Despite the cost to Equestria.  Yeah, getting Outer Senshi vibes from this guy.  Which is a shame, because all of the other Pillars seem to be perfectly nice and affable ponies willing to work together.

* And Twilight’s search for a different solution… just has keeping the Pillars around while still sacrificing the Elements.  And yeah, the Pillars made the elements, but did so over a long incubation period. Try following Starlight’s advice and look for a non-banishment solution, stupid.

* Kinda funny how the heroes are having trouble tracking PoS down because Equestria is a better place, so all of the old dens of darkness are just fine these days.

* Starswirl needs to get his head outta his flank.

* I think some offense was taken.

* Yeah, the narrative is leaning pretty hard against Starswirl and towards Starlight here. Especially with the whole “Once a villain, always a villain” bit.

* Thank you, Starlight, for actually asking what happened all those years ago.

* Huh, Sirens confirmed as series canon.  Odd. Mind you I don’t know that much about them as I’ve never watched the movies, but some things are unavoidable knowledge if you hang out online in the fanbase.

* The PoS’s name was Stygian?  Man, it’s like his parents wanted him to go supervillain.

* So Stygian gathered them together to fight evil, but got jealous.  At one point he stole their artifacts to work some spell or another, but was discovered before actually finishing and was cast out.  And when he came back he did so as Dark Death Evil Man. But as Starlight helps to point out, they don’t know what exactly he had been trying to accomplish with his spell, though their guess is stealing their power.

* Yeah, Starlight has had enough of Starswirl’s crap.

* Now I’m wondering who build the temple to the Shadows, as apparently it already existed before Stygian came upon it.  Also, never listen to the mythos spoken from the depths of the Earth, dude.

* Oh look, there’s more to the story than meets the eye, who could have guessed.

* Well, Twilight’s been holding the idiot ball all finale thus far, but at least she noticed the pony of Stygian within the Pony of Shadows.  Not sure diving in was the right idea though.

* OK, Stygian’s side comes out, he wanted to make copies of their artifacts in the hope it would make him a Pillar and he could join the battles.  That’s still something you really need to talk about before you go stealing stuff.

* Rainbow Friendship Lasso Beam go!

* So The Shadows are banished, but Stygian remains.  Happy end!

* Aw, Starswirl commenting on how tall Celestia got is cute!  And Luna asking not to have to turn in the essays they were supposed to 1000 years ago is just funny.

* Can’t blame the Pillars for wanting to see what’s changed over the course of a millennia.  Of course there’s the problem of nopony’s gonna believe who they are.

 And that’s the end of the season.  It was pretty good all things considered.  Although this ending does make one question how things are going to work out with the non-reformed villains.  OK, Sombra isn’t likely to be a problem, but he is still awkward in that they killed him all kinds of dead.  But the new characters introduced seem decent enough now that we actually get to see them in something other than tales.  And I’m still curious about who built the shrine to the Shadows.  Evil cultist ponies!

Also, I may not care much about shipping debates and all that, but I can definitely see Rainbow Dash/Flash Magnus being a thing.  At the very least they’re certainly chummy with each other.