#sniffles. is anypony here.

[nocohitment]

autotuned baby crying

[kindheart525]

Astor had invited Blue to her house for the night, just the two of them and her undivided attention. She had noticed a change in her friend and she could only guess what the reason was, but she didn't like it. So here they were in Astor’s inner sanctum, the glow in the dark stars and decals Blue had gifted her covering the walls.

"Sit down Blue."

She spoke sternly, making her way over to her desk and beginning to shuffle papers.

"Tell me what's going on."

Blue had been acting a lot more quiet than usual, more shy and nothing like her confident self. She started twirling her mane nervously but willed her hooves to stop as she spoke.

“Oh it’s not much, it’s just...”

But one look over at her friend and it was clear that Astor was not convinced one bit. Something about her unlocked something in Blue, opening up the floodgates as her voice instantly choked up and tears sprung to her eyes.

“Ever since I started dating Varmint I haven’t gotten a break! I love her with all my heart and I want to be with her for a long time, but everypony seems to think I’m NOT going to treat her well!”

At this point her makeup was running down her face and she could not stop it as she spilled all her feelings out.

“Brackish thinks I’m out to hurt Venny and Cedar says I’m a bad influence on Violet for having so many lovers! Do I really seem like the kind of mare who wants to hurt ponies!? I love my girlfriend AND my sister and I...I’d never dream of doing anything to them! Not ever!”

She gripped at herself, riddled with self-hatred as she reflected on all the things ponies had said to her lately.

“But what if I AM a slut? What if I AM a bad influence, what if I do flaunt myself too much? Did I break everypony’s hearts, am I gonna break Venny’s too!? I just don’t know what to do, I...”

Blue couldn’t go on any longer, all she could do was break down into sobbing as she wallowed in her shame.

Astor continued arranging her star maps the whole time as Blue spoke. To anypony else she looked like she was ignoring her friend but in actuality she was listening very intently, evaluating the situation critically as Blue explained it all. And once she was done she immediately had her own two bits to offer.

“First of all, you should stop listening to Brackish. He’s an imbecile and he has zero credibility to talk about your sex life when he brags about his own body count constantly. Red Cedar also has no place to judge when she was looking around while in a relationship. By Gaia, I can’t be your only voice of reason here.”

She quipped in the same blunt tone she always spoke in; anypony else would have thought she was completely serious. But Blue didn’t laugh like she normally would have.

“But what if she has a point?”

Blue got up from her seat and walked up behind Astor, still sniffling and sobbing quietly.

“What if I’m only making it worse for myself by being so open? Making ponies think I’m somepony I’m not?”

“There are always going to be ponies who think you’re a slut. You can stop being open about it and leave them with nothing to use against you. You can hide it all away. Or you could just...stop giving a shit.”

“Well I didn’t until now. I don’t know what’s wrong with me!”

She gripped her hat to her chest, hanging on Astor’s every word for consolation even when her tone wasn’t very gentle.

Astor kept her eyes on the star maps she organized so diligently, but her voice softened ever so slightly as she went on.

“It’s because you clearly care about Varmint. Of course you care about everypony you’ve been with but you seem to be pretty intent on pursuing something long-term with her. This is not another fling.”

“Yes, more than anything, I want her to know that!”

Astor turned towards her, focusing her full and undivided attention on Blue now.

“Then tell her. Nopony has any power to stop you. Not Brackish, not Cedar, not even Gaia. You go right down to that farm and you tell her exactly how you feel.”

A smile finally returned to Blue’s face as she put her hat back on, a newfound courage growing inside her with Astor’s advice helping her.

“You’re right! If Brackish tries to stop me I’ll tell him to fuck himself! And then I’ll fuck his sister!”

She laughed and Astor chuckled along with her.

“Yes you will.”

Astor took note of Blue’s face, still stained with mascara and snot, tossing her a tissue box from her desk.

“But clean yourself up first, you’re an absolute mess. You want to look your best while doing it, don’t you?”

~~~~~~~~~~

Previous: Sister Sister Next: Penchant

Collaboration with @cloud-roots

[t4tharuspex]

house of mirrors

2.5k word mlp fanfic. dont judge me >.>

summary: rarity and twilights visit to the crystal empire is more eventful then either had hoped. somethings wrong with the castle, and more importantly, somethings wrong with shining armor...

content warnings: fear of transphobia (no actual rtansphobia bc this is the colorful horses show)

Rarity held back a whinny of delight as she trotted off the train and into the crystal empire station. Everywhere she looked she was dazzled by gleaming crystals of every color refracting rainbows on every surface while somehow remaining the farthest thing from gaudy. Starting to feel faint from excitement, she leaned on twilight's shoulder as her eyes fluttered.

“Rarity come on!” The alicorn laughed as she helped her friend upright. “We’ve hardly been in the empire for a minute! Save your fainting for the ceremony.”

The white horse perked up immediately at the reminder of what she had come here for: she was to assist Cadence and Shining Armor in the preparations for the newborn princesses presentation to the public! She cantered in place with excitement, lifting twilight's luggage with her magic and running off to their suite in the castle with twilight hot on her heels.

The suite was spacious with generous decor in simple light colors. the main focal point of the suite was the giant bay windows which cast giant swathes of warm light across the room. upon closer inspection rarity was amazed to discover that the windows were made entirely of cut crystal rather than glass. the faint color of the gemstone created a slight cast on the light coming in, giving a view of the city below that was ever so slightly tinted. this realization recontextualized the furnishing in rarities mind: it wasn't dull and plain, but simply a blank canvas for whatever the crystal windows brought in. a strange method of decor indeed. or was it a response to the material conditions of living in a house of crystal?

When the two had almost settled into their apartment, they were startled from their rest by a brisk knock at the door.

“A summons for princess twilight sparkle,” a booming voice called from behind the door. “You are needed urgently by princess mi amore cadenza for matters concerning his highness the prince.”

Worry flooded the purple alicorns features. “Urgent? Then I guess I had better go now.” She magically gathered a few items into her saddlebag and gave a parting smile to her friend as she was rushed away by royal guards.

Shocked by the suddenness of it all, rarity let out a chuff and sat squarely on her quarters. Was shining armor alright? she wanted to put her anxieties to rest, but it was plainly obvious that she hadn't been invited. would the entire trip to the empire consist of her sitting alone in her room while twilight attended to all matters of actual importance?

Trying to shake the thought from her head, rarity got up and left her room to explore the castle. It truly was extravagant, with pillars of crystal stretching to the high vaulted ceilings spreading refractions of glittering iridescence that made the whole space seem somehow both extraordinary glamorous and warm and homey. Inspiration flooded her mind as she trotted the decadently decorated halls. She just couldn’t wait to get back to her studio and put this inspiration to good use.

She was halted in her exploration when her ears picked up familiar voices talking from behind an ajar door. She knew it was wrong to eavesdrop, but she couldn’t help but listen in...

"-i don't know what to do twilight, he hadn't seemed this off for years, and now flurry is here and hes completely absent!"

"i don't know cadence, he hasn't said anything in his letters-"

“- all I’m saying is maybe you could get through to him! He won’t talk to me, or anypony else here. you're my last hope. maybe hell listen to his best friend”

“i've never been able to help him in one of these episodes before. if he’s not ready to talk then confronting him will only make him more defensive.”

“That’s a risk we’ll have to take. I’m worried for my husband twilight.” Rarity leaned on the door to hear better as the princesses voice dropped, “please, if not for shining armor, or for me, then for flurry heart. She deserves to have a father who can dedicate himself to her, not one who’s so preoccupied that he can hardly look after her.”

There was a sigh, then rarity heard twilight speak “very well. I’ll do this for her. Maybe that will get through to my brother.”

Sudden approaching hoofsteps started rarity out of her reverie. She stumbled backwards just in time to miss the swinging door as twilight entered the hall. “Rarity? I thought you were still in the room? Oh well, I need your help anyway." She looked over her shoulder as if to make sure they were alone. "I think somethings wrong with my brother. It's possible that one of the unreformed changelings has taken his place to try too take advantage of the upcoming love boom from flurry hearts royal presentation."

Rarity was taken aback by her friends leap of logic. "Doesn't that seem like an extreme suspicion? Having a baby is stressful enough for normal ponies, I cant imagine what kind of pressure would be on a royal prince."

"I don't know rarity, after what happened at the wedding we can't be too careful. I hope its just nerves and parental stress, but we have to expect the worse if we want to be prepared to handle it."

rarity nodded. "alright, then let's find your brother."

The two ponies galloped down the halls in search of the princes chambers. the crystal walls seemed to burn with energy, the warm cast of light from earlier having turned harsh and almost too bright. rarity wondered absently if this was a product of the changing time of day or a trick of the mind. could the walls of a castle really know how somepony felt, and shine it back at them like a diamond mirror?

a distant commotion pricked the two mares ears. "this way!" twilight called as she rounded a corner, dashing after the sound with rarity at her side.

the two skidded to a stop when they reached an open doorway from which the sound seemed to emit. with a flick of her ear twilight motioned for rarity to follow her and the two cautiously made their way into the room. twilight emitted a small light from her horn, then lit the rooms lamp once she could find it on the wall. with the room lit rarity immediately got an impression of drabness and depression, the tightly draped windows letting in no light and the gemstone walls shining the same dim echo back and forth across the space, almost seeming to beg for the light to go out again.

twilight gestured with her chin to the curtained bed at the center of the room, grabbing one edge of the curtain with her magic and indicating for rarity to take hold of the other. once the unicorn had secured the curtain, twilight gave a sharp nod and both ponies tugged their curtain aside, revealing a stallion-sized lump that spectacularly failed to live up to either mares fearful imagination.

the blue-maned unicorn sat up at once, alarmed by the sudden intrusion. he seemed to calm down slightly when he recognized his sister, but he remained guarded. "twily? rarity? what are you two doing in my private chambers?"

"well to be fair," rarity gestured back at the entrance, "you did leave your door open."

"cadence must have done that when she left." shining armor gruffed. "that doesn't answer my question though: what are you doing here?"

twilight stepped forward with a cautious expression, ready to fight if this really was a changeling. "were just here to check up on you, see how youre handling the upcoming princess presentation" it was clear that twilight was being reserved with her supposed brother.

then, shining armors eyes met hers, and her suspicion evaporated. that peculiar sadness that had haunted her brother in her young filliehood, then she had thought he'd escaped when he found happiness in cadences arms, was burning hot tears from shining armors eyes. she had never seen a pain like that before or since. if there was anything twilight was certain of, it was that this pony was the same one she had known her whole life. but the question still lingered, was he the real shining?

completely without her permission, tears began to well in twilight's eyes. "oh shinning, whats happened to you?"

her brother choked on a sob. "I'm sorry twily, you were never supposed to see me like this. no one was. i should be able to hold it together for you... for cadence... for my daughter..."

"shining nopony wants you to hide any part of you! we want to know when you're hurting so we can help. i had thought you'd healed from whatever's causing this pain but it seems to be back and i wont let you hide it from me this time!" the purple alicorn sniffled as tears streaked down her muzzle. "please shining, tell me whats wrong."

The stallion nervously rubbed his hooves together and cast his gaze to the ground. "i don't even know where to start."

"the beginning," twilight proposed. "i want to know everything. you cant heal until you let your wounds be seen."

shining nodded and took a deep breath, "its just that, when you were a fillie, everyone expected me to be the perfect big brother, and i never measured up to that expectation. it was like being thrown into the ocean with no idea how to swim, and everypony kept insisting that i was a fish and i should know how, but i didn't. then in the royal guard it didn't matter how i felt as long as i followed orders and played the role, so that's what i did. i don't know if it actually quieted the pain or just forced me to ignore it, but for a few years i thought maybe i could live with it. cadence was the only pony i've ever met who could make that noise in my brain silent; with her it didn't matter if I wasn't brother enough fro you or stallion enough for the military. i was always enough for her, no questions asked. i was so happy when we got married that i could almost forget about that feeling, telling myself it was a phase i'd outgrown. but now with flurry heart, all that anxiety is back. its like no matter what i do ill never be able to be a good father for her. i love her more than anything, id do anything for her, but it isn't enough. i'm not enough." the white unicorns neck gave way as he succumbed to quiet sobs, his once proud chin quivering and brushing his chest.

"shining... i..." twilight was speechless. what could be said? her brothers pain went far beyond anything she knew how to mend. at that moment being the princess of friendship meant nothing; she couldn't even move herself to speak in the face of her first best friends deep sorrow.

"i hope im not overstepping here," a timid voice chimed in, startling both siblings as rarity cleared her throat. "but i think i may have an idea as to the source and solution of your distress."

"rarity?" shining choked, "how could you possibly know how i feel?"

the mare nervously flicked her mane with an idle hoof. "there's a lot you don't know about me." turning to twilight, she asked "would it be alright if the prince and i could have a moment alone?"

Twilight nodded and bowed out of the room, and the two remaining ponies listened to her hoofbeats echo down and again further down the labyrinthine crystal hallway, which now seemed to glitter coldly like a sterile knife where it once had gleamed so warmly. rarity shivered at the thought of living in a place like this, which could transform before your eyes depending only on ones own emotion. that was, she mused, the property of crystal. it created nothing, only reflecting what was cast onto it. in a dimly lit cave the finest diamond was often mistaken by novices for a common quartz, but at the heart of a kingdom built on a foundation of admiration it gleamed on every surface like the morning dew on a freshly budded rose. this castle wasn't a cold cage or a warm embrace, it was an endless hall of mirrors, each perfectly angled to show you the deepest darkest crevice of your heart.

"i understand why it tortures you to live here." rarity whispered. "each surface gleams to a pristine chrome finish, yet the face it reflects is fundamentally and inconceivably wrong."

shining armor appeared startled, "that's exactly how it feels. how do you know? is it that obvious how miserable i am?

the mare shook her head, "only to those who have felt the same misery. shining armor, i once lived the same life as you, albeit in a much more drab estate. I felt that at every turn i failed at the very task of existing as myself, my relationships suffered because it pained me to view myself as a part of them. mirrors became my enemy because i couldn't face the pony looking back at me. the stallion looking back at me."

a small gasp escaped the taller unicorns lips "what-"

"think about it shining," rarity pleaded shakily, " everything you cant stand to be: brother, father, soldier, prince. they all have one thing in common." tears welled in her eyes and choked her throat "you cant run from it shining. it never stops. you only make yourself more and more miserable. you can cover as many mirrors as you like but eventually you're going to look around and realize that you're still the same pony you hated, standing alone in complete darkness."

something clicked behind the other ponys eyes. "no, it cant be... what about cadence? flurry? twilight? i cant throw all of them away because i have some twisted dream of living as a-"

"-you're not sick shining. maybe a bit different, but there's nothing wrong with you. you'll find that the friends worth keeping don't care at all. they're suffering by watching you suffer; freeing yourself will only free them too."

"i have no idea where to even start though. aren't i a bit too old for this?" shinings eyes were wide and scared.

"i would love to personally see to all the aesthetic changes you wish for, if you'll have me. you really couldn't ask for a more qualified personal stylist. and as for the social shift, you've got the princesses of love and friendship in your corner."

"but that's just it: they're not in my corner. they may as well be on the other side of equestria, or a gaping cavern. how can i even know that they'll still see me as me?"

"i know how scary it is, especially in the early days, but i can personally account for twilights acceptance. and as for cadence, i'm pretty sure they don't go around giving titles like the princess of love to ponies who cant accept others for something so harmless as gender." her smile faded and her face grew a bit serious "i can be there with you if you want. like i said, i know how scary it is." she placed a hoof on top of the other mares own.

She smiled. "I think id like that."

[whaleofatjme1920]

Could Really Use A Wish Right Now (Mordetwi)

Could Really Use A Wish Right Now

[Mordecai X Twilight Sparkle]

[Warnings: none.]

[AN: I told you I was writing Mordetwi fanfic only I put way too much effort into it and it's 3.6K words long. Read this and enjoy it or I will never forgive you. Also, I’ve never watched Regular Show so like—]

Have you ever met someone in your life that makes you feel so utterly complete? They make your heart sing and the butterflies in your stomach spring to life just by existing in the same space as you.

The purple unicorn called Twilight Sparkle had honestly never believed she was never destined to meet someone who could inspire those things inside of her. When she was a filly learning about the common beauty that is ‘soulmate identifiers,’ she’d been disheartened to learn that she lacked all of them.

“It’s a simple exercise,” Princess Celestia began, watching as her students eyed her with wonder and excitement. “Unicorns have a special ability that allows us to hone in on not only our soulmate identifiers, but others as well,” she explained, her horn lighting up with a beautiful golden aura as it began to spread brighter and brighter. Her eyes closed for but a fraction of a second before a counter appeared over Celestia’s head. “See? Easy as pie,” she smiled.

“What does your counter mean, princess?” Moon Dancer asked, her brows quirking up.

Princess Celestia hummed thoughtfully. “It’s counting down the hours, minutes and seconds until I meet my special somepony,” she answered. “Though, I have a feeling it is not of the romantic nature.”

Another filly looked over, confusion etching his face. “That’s possible?”

Celestia giggled and nodded, magickally willing her counter away. “Not everypony is destined to have a romantic soulmate, nor do they always want one,” the princess started as she walked over to the still confused filly. She stretched one of her wings out, gently draping over him before dipping her head down and explaining further. “Friendship is just as important.”

The young male filly made a loud ‘ohhhhh’ sound before excitedly getting back into the lesson.

Princess Celestia then began to explain how to do the spell, focusing on feelings and intuition more than actual words.

“Have some faith while casting your magick,” Princess Celestia said, watching as her students paired up. “Don’t doubt yourself.”

The words of her princess echoed in Twilight’s head, the young filly bracing herself as her purple aura began to spread over her horn.

“C’mon Twi, I believe in you,” Moon Dancer said, her violet colored eyes sparkling with determination and her own horn igniting with light pink aura.

Twilight grinned at her friend, honing in on her feelings as she and Moon Dancer cast the spell - and she saw it! Moon Dancer was gifted with the first words on her forehoof - it’ll appear when she’s 13.

“Do you see mine?” The red maned pony asked excitedly.

Twilight nodded. “First words at 13,” she answered. “And me?”

“I can’t really-”

“Alright my little ponies, back to your seats please,” Princess Celestia said, her voice like honey and silk. Her voice carried on, oblivious to Twilight’s inner turmoil as she continued on with the lesson, explaining the different types of marks and the most common ones. “Does anypony have any questions?”

“What do you do if you don’t have one?” The young filly asked, her dark purple colored hoof held high in the air as she looked at the regal princess who had paused from her lesson to take questions.

“Excellent question, Twilight,” Princess Celestia’s regal voice complimented, briefly watching as stars that were reminiscent of Twilight’s cutie mark sparkled in her eyes before addressing her. “Perhaps it is an area of study you can go into,” the princess winked.

Twilight raised a brow and cocked her head to the side. “You mean to tell me that no pony in the history of ponies has ever lacked a soulmate identifier?”

Princess Celestia chuckled and nodded, her large, feathery wings fanning out for but a moment to show her amusement before nodding. “There’s always a special somepony for everypony out there, whether it be purely platonic or romantic!” The large white mare explained. Aura flowed from her horn and plucked a piece of chalk up from the chalkboard’s ledge. It floated around her head before she turned back to the board. “We learn about new soulmate identifiers daily,” she explained, writing down the notes.

Twilight shifted awkwardly in her seat before using her own magic to pick up her quill, taking down her teacher’s notes.

“Sometimes, soulmate identifiers come late in life or change depending on our advancements in magick and technology.”

The princess’s voice droned on and Twilight took down her notes diligently, ears flattened against her skull. The feeling of dread pooled deeper in her stomach.

“And sometimes,” Princess Celestia continued, “sometimes they just don’t appear until a certain age. Sixteen seems to be the latest.”

Twilight’s ears perked up. Sixteen, huh? She could wait until then. Maybe there was hope for her after all.

Sixteen came and went and Twilight found herself tearing up on her balcony, stargazing in an attempt to soothe her aching heart. It was just past midnight and she performed that stupid spell again and again with no luck. In the mirror, all she saw was herself, and nothing more.

“Twily? You in here?” A gentle male voice asked, gently knocking on her door.

The unicorn flattened her ears against her head and used her forehoof to wipe away her crystalline tears. “Just about to sleep,” she said, barely hiding her sniffles. She didn’t want to face Shining Armor like this.

The stallion’s voice exhaustedly chuckled. “C’mon, what’s wrong?” He asked.

Twilight sighed deeply and opened her bedroom door with her magick, revealing a white stallion with blue hair.

He looked over the darkness of Twilight’s room before tsking his tongue at seeing the sorry state of his sister. His dark blue hooves tapped quietly along the bedroom floor as he made way to her, his magick opening her balcony doors just enough for him to sit beside her. “What’s on your mind?” He asked, eyes gentle and soft.

Twilight lowered her eyes, unable to look at her brother before biting the bullet and deciding to explain it to him. “I… Am I destined to be alone?” She asked softly, voice cracking ever so slightly.

Shining Armor’s heart softened at the sound of his distraught sister before he wrapped his arm around her. “No, of course not,” he hushed. “You’re going to be just fine,” he cooed, rocking his baby sister back and forth.

“That’s so easy for you to say,” the purple mare said with a growing frown. “You have Cadence-”

“We’re not talking about me right now,” he cut Twilight off sharply. He felt her wince against him. “Sorry, it’s just,” he rested his head on top of hers. “You’re gonna be just fine. You have my word.”

Twilight took in her brother’s warmth, still bitter over the fact he had a soulmate and she didn’t, but spent time in his warm embrace. He’s her BBBFF for a reason.

From then on, and it came in small bouts, Twilight began to think of music in her head. Little songs of things she recognized, some things she didn’t, but music all the same. At first, she assumed it was just her head substituting the liminal spaces in her head with something melodic and pleasant, but over the years, it grew louder.

How curious…

She’d grown a lot since she was sixteen, seven years had passed and the soulmate identifying mark was but a scar on her heart. Though, the music in her head was triggered at the oddest times. She’d learned to tune it out through the years, that and the feelings of her pain over a lack of soulmates.

Her friends had already found theirs.

Pinkie Pie’s was a stallion by the name of Cheese Sandwich. They were bound together by a step counter.

Rainbow Dash’s was Apple Jack, and of course, they were tied together through shared injuries. Rainbow Dash had to apologize for all of Apple Jack’s phantom wing pain.

Fluttershy had a red string of fate connected to Discord.

Rarity had an almost ‘lost to legend’ soulmate identifier, one in which your reflection is actually your soulmate - and it led her to Fancy Pants, who was in every sense, her platonic soulmate.

And Twilight? She liked to say she didn’t care anymore.

Instead, she buried herself into her friendships and focused on her magick, honing in on the skills and abilities she did have and could work on.

It was one of those spells that brought her to him.

“And you’re sure this is a good idea?” Spike asked, his green eyes showing nothing but concern. His clawed hands anxiously grasped at his scaly tail.

Twilight nodded, her magick clasping the book to a close, sending dust flying in the air. She twitched her nose before sneezing slightly. “Yes,” she began. “If I do this right, we’ll peer into another…. Reality? Dimension? Oh goodness, I have no idea!” She giggled, glee dotting her face.

Spike’s eyes fell to the book as Twilight reshelved it. “Do we really need to be looking into other realities?” He questioned, voice still shaky and unsure.

“Of course I am!” Twilight beamed. “This was one of Star Swirl’s greatest spells, it hasn’t been attempted in centuries! If I can, maybe we can learn something and then?”

Spike groaned loudly. “Don’t say it-”

“We can write a research paper!” She giggled, her ears perked up and magick already begin to form around her horn. Twilight honestly pranced like a filly, giggling as she went over the spell in her head.

Spike narrowed his eyes before hiding behind the table and flashing a shaky thumbs up.

Twilight steadied herself before gearing up, the aura on her horn growing brighter and brighter. The violet hue almost became blinding as Twilight grit her teeth at the sheer energy flowing through her body.

She flattened her ears against her skull as she put more of her power into the spell. “I can barely hold it!” She cried out, hooves digging into the wood of her library floor. She tensed the muscles in her legs.

“It’s not gonna hold!” Spike shouted, bracing for an explosion.

“Yes it will-!” Twilight yelled back, exhausting her power as her horn heated up past boiling. Her horn was practically sparkling now, growing hotter and brighter, sparks flying as she poured more and more of herself into it. She hissed in pain as the sheer force of magick sent her flying back to her shelves, sending books and precious knowledge all over the place.

“Twilight! Are you okay?” Spike asked once it was safe to come out, uncomfortable with the heavy heat that lingered in the air. He rushed over to the dizzy unicorn, watching as she shook the books off.

“I’m fine,” she said, voice a little hazy as Spike took her forehoof into his hands, helping her up. “I just need to try again. Maybe I missed something?” She rhetorically asked, rubbing at her temple in an attempt to shove off her physical pain that cracked over her body like glass at its breaking point. Her hooves clacked against the floor as she shakily steadied herself, her magick grabbing the book from its place.

“Don’t you think that you’ve exhausted yourself today?” Spike asked, his voice soft and low. “You need to rest, maybe get some hay fries?” He suggested.

Twilight continued to page through the book, eyes scanning it faster and faster for any hint on what to do. Nothing. She groaned and angrily shoved it back into its place. “You’re right, let’s get something to eat,” she sighed, picking Spike up with her magick and placing him on her back.

Spike mentally sighed in relief as the purple unicorn trotted out of the library, his stomach growling the entire way.

Twilight now stands in the middle of some field in the late afternoon verging on evening, songs in her head keeping her attention bright eyed and bushy tailed. Spike was back home, sleeping, of course. She had all the time she needed to practice her spell, and she’d keep going until she got it right.

She powers up the spell again, the breeze sending her pretty mane flying and thankfully, out of her face as her aura grows. The purple color fizzles at first, almost as if it was asking her to not do so - to give up, but she grit her teeth and powers through it.

“Come on,” she growls, putting more and more of her power into the spell, her brain attempting to focus on anything other than the songs that were permeating her skull. Twilight steadies herself, hooves digging into the earth and kicking up some of the grass, the light emitting from her horn beginning to sparkle almost brilliantly. Twilight feels a smidge of hope, a smile blooming on her face before it falls.

She feels dashed!

“No!” She cries out, wondering why it was failing.

It flickers and sends sparks flying everywhere, and then it stops. It’s almost pitiful, seeing the magick drip from her horn pathetically like when you attempt to carefully pour something carefully and it dribbles out instead.

She angrily stomps her hoof on the earth, thoughts running out from her head until the music grows louder. She’d tried so many spells throughout her time to in a cain attempt to stop it, but still it persisted.

“You want me to listen to you? Fine! Fine!” She exclaims in frustration, voice rife with anger as she allows the song to overtake her thoughts. On pure intuition when the music is blasting through her thoughts, she attempts the spell again.

Twilight closes her eyes, attempting to hone in and completely misses how her magick takes on a different form. It bounces and swirls around her and rises and falls with the swells in the music. It bounces, small specks of the magick flow from the waving strands and begin to pool, slowly building up to a portal that swirls, growing brighter and brighter with a violet hue.

She’s mentally cursing herself for the energy she’s expending here, but at the same time, the spell is so close to its conclusion, she can feel it in her bones! She focuses on the lyrics of the song, taking in the sweet words. Is it a love song? She really can’t tell.

Remaining sunlight dances across her closed eyelids and Twilight can tell she’s used up all her power. She pants, coat covered in a foamy sheen as she shakes herself with the oncoming breeze. That was absolutely exhausting. She finds herself collapsing to the soft grass, taking in the scent of the earth and listens to the way the breeze shuffles through it. A long sigh escapes her lips before she opens her eyes.

Twilight lets out a yelp, jumping back several yards as she looks at the very confused creature standing with a pop can in front of her. “What the-, who the- what?” She begins to incoherently babble, her eyes wide with shock.

The creature in front of her almost drops his pop can before blinking. “What the- who are you?” Voice is male - must be a guy-

“Who are you?” Twilight asks, slowly standing on wobbly legs to the bird-like creature.

“I-I asked first?” He says, one of his eyes narrowing in confusion as he leans forward.

Twilight snorts and slowly walks up to the portal. “My name is Twilight Sparkle,” she answers hesitantly.

“M-Mordecai,” he replies just as hesitantly. “Why did you open a portal in my living room?” He questions as his beaked face draws closer and closer to the portal.

“I was trying to finish a spell, wait-” Twilight then pauses, her expression of hesitance turning to excitement. “I did it!” She cries out happily, beginning to hop up and down. “I really did it, I opened a portal to another reality!” She laughs, horn shooting off fireworks as a further expression of her joy.

Mordecai looks at the prancing purple unicorn with even more confusion. He hates to interrupt her, but he needs answers. “Why don’t you uh, take a seat and we can figure this out together?” He suggests, slowly backing up to sit on his couch.

Twilight stops prancing and blushes slightly before reeling herself back in, awkwardly trotting back to the portal’s edge. She places her hoof on it, watching as it ripples. She tries to step into it, displeased with seeing that it only dips in before bouncing back, sending her hoof flying back at her. She frowns. “Well, there’s this wizard named Star Swirl,” she starts, magick plucking his book up from her saddle bag.

The ended up talking late into the night, the light of the moon being the only thing that lit up their visages. Twilight had explained so much to Mordecai, and Mordecai to Twilight.

They were… Surprisingly more compatible than either of them had originally expected. However, nothing could prepare Twilight or Mordecai for what was about to happen next.

“Something about me that nopony knows?” Twilight hums. “I hear songs, a lot.”

“Oh dude, me too,” Mordecai seriously nodded. “But like, I’ve never heard the songs before? I can’t tell if my head is making them up or not,” he chuckles before his large wings crush his fifth pop can.

“What kind of songs?”

“There was this one about the Hokey Pokey, I think?” He began to list off. “And then another about the history of some group called the WonderBolts? But the one that stuck out the most was this one was about smiling,” he awkwardly laughs before rolling his eyes. “Weird, right?”

Twilight honestly can’t believe what she’s hearing. Those are all songs she’s sung at one point or another, with and without Pinkie Pie - that’s when she realizes it.

“You’re my soulmate.”

“What?”

“That’s-That’s our soulmate tie,” she continues, voice seldom higher than a whisper before light begins to sparkle in her eyes.

Mordecai’s eyes are wide. Soulmates? He was always under the impression he didn’t have one! He leaps up from his couch, not even caring about the emptied cans he’s sending to the floor.

The two laugh, feathers and hooves pressing against each other on the portal as they rest their foreheads in the same place.

“I’ve waited my whole life to meet you,” Mordecai wisps out, his voice soft and innocent. “Who knew all it took as a portal,” he chuckles breathily. “Eyes like stars and hair that falls so perfectly,” he compliments, wishing so badly that he could hold her.

Twilight hums and presses against the portal just a little tighter. “I’m so happy to have met you,” she whispers. He makes butterflies flutter in her stomach and her heart stop and race all at the same time. Is this what being in love feels like?

She honestly wished this moment could last forever. He was so close, yet so far…

There are so many more things they want to say to each other when the portal begins to glitch, the sparkles that made it gradually deconstructing and coming back to Twilight’s horn.

She gasps. “No, no, no!” She cries out, attempting once again to perform the spell.

“Twilight? What’s happening?” Mordecai questions, voice growing more and more panicky.

Twilight continually attempts the spell. “I don’t know! Nothing in Star Swirl’s journal-!” She uses her magick to pick up Star Swirl’s journal and looks through it, wondering if there’s any notes she can paw through. Anything, anything at all!

The portal disintegrates faster.

Mordecai bangs his fists against it, calling out for the purple unicorn. “Twilight! Twilight!” He calls out. There’s tears welling in his eyes.

Twilight begins to blink back tears as she reads the section in barely legible ink. It’s faded away with time, but it tells her exactly what she doesn’t want to hear.

‘The reality you open can only be opened once, never to be opened again by you or any other magick caster.’

It’s such an awful rule and almost too convenient, but she lets out a groan of frustration and flings the book back, attempting again and again to save the portal. It’s no use, the magick comes back to her faster than she can build it back up.

Her hooves grasp for Mordecai, attempting to hold onto him through the veil, tears wetting her fur. “Please, please don’t go!” She cries out.

Mordecai continues to claw helplessly at the portal as they stand on tiphooves and toes to see the remaining glimpses of each other, eyes now red and puffy.

“Don’t forget about me!” Twilight exclaims, voice cracked and broken.

“Don’t go, please don’t go!” Mordecai cries back, watching as the last of Twilight’s magick closes the portal, her cries still fresh in his ears.

The field is silent now and the moon hangs brightly in the sky. Stars dot the bluish black and Twilight can’t bring herself to move. Instead, she grips at herself, gazing up, and wistfully at that.

In another reality, Mordecai quietly floats outside, tears wetting his feathers and staining them as he gazes up at the full moon. The stars hang in the sky and alongside them, so too do airplanes. He watches their flickering yellow and red lights and brokenly chuckles to himself. He begins to hum, sending this one out to Twilight.

“Can we pretend that airplanes in the night sky are like shooting stars?”

Twilight’s ears twitch as Mordecai sings in the back of her head, her face tilting upwards to be bathed in the light of the moon. More crystalline tears fall from her eyes and water the earth. She sniffles and wipes away some more of her tears with her forehoof.

“I-I could really use a wish right now, wish right now, wish right now…”

Separated by realities, the symphony plays on. It’s a cruel reminder of what could have been should they have lived on the same plane of existence.

[fanfiction-g0ddess]

princess knows best

au where twilight’s biggest fear is not failing a test but losing spike bcs.. hello?? why is ur biggest fear failing a TEST

word count: 2.3k

warnings: just angst!!

a/n: please don’t copy to another website

___

The blinding white faded and Twilight trotted into the throne room of Princess Celestia’s castle, before stopping with a small start.

“Huh?” she questioned, her tail swishing. The thrones were unvacant and the entire room was empty. She pulled a hoof to her chest and her gaze darted around quizzically.

“Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student.”

Twilight’s ears perked at the sound of her favorite princess in all of Equestria and she softly pivoted on her hooves. She faced Princess Celestia, ever so graceful as she stood in the hallway of her castle. Her beauty is beyond compare, her elegant multi-colored mane and tail drifting effortlessly in the air as if the wind were always fanning her. She faired beautifully despite being millenniums old and she radiated regality and brilliance. No matter the close bond she and the princess had, no matter how often she saw her mentor, the alicorn still took her breath away at times and she couldn’t help but bow to her princess.

“Princess Celestia,” she greeted, picking herself up from her submissive stance and padding over to her. She stood sideways in front of the princess and stretched out, where Celestia placed her head down on the ridge of her back, Twilight nuzzling the back of her head to the side of her mentor’s.

“You were just the pony I was looking forward to seeing. We must discuss urgent matters at once.”

Twilight blinked. It sounds important . “Oh. Okay. What do you need to discuss, princess?”

“It is regarding Spike,” she said, striding towards the throne room, Twilight in tow. “I am afraid he must leave Equestria. The Dragonlands have much more to offer a growing dragon.”

“For how long?” she asked, trotting next to Celestia. “Because I don’t feel comfortable with him staying there by himself and I have-”

“Forever.”

Twilight froze. It seemed as if time froze with her. The air stilled around her and the skin under her fur broke out into goosebumps. This couldn’t be happening. Princess Celestia would never do such a thing. She liked Spike! I should let her explain herself. Yes! She’s just kidding, just joking around. Or maybe I misheard. I must have heard her wrong. She can’t really be asking me to-

“Twilight.”

Her head snapped to where her mentor sat, on the top step leading to where her and her sister’s thrones lay.

“I know this will be difficult, believe me, but it must be done,” she spoke, her tone not betraying that of regality and elegance. Not a trace of emotion weaved its way through her voice.

“B-but why? Spike’s been raised by ponies, he’ll be eaten alive by the dragons there! And the citizens of Ponyville aren’t bothered by him, he’s a good dragon! If this is a culture thing--he wants to live among ponies, princess,” Twilight explained.

“This is not a matter of which Spike goes voluntarily.”

“S-so you’re banishing him? What reasoning do you have to banish him from all of Equestria?” she cried, lowering her body as she spoke up to her mentor.

“As much as Spike is a joy to be around, he is still a dragon . My subjects in Ponyville may be accustomed to his presence but others are not. He is terrorizing the citizens of Canterlot and the Crystal Empire everytime you two visit,” she countered, sitting up tall.

“Spike doesn’t terrorize anypony-!”

“-He may not mean to, but he does . My student, you represent me. Everytime you bring Spike along to a royal event or announce yourself as my student with Spike at your flank, that is a representation of me and my competence as a ruler. What does it show when my star student, my prized pupil, has a dragon companion?”

“I-I don’t understand. You’re the one who appointed my parents legal custody. You allowed him to stay and become a part of our family. You’re the reason he’s in Ponyville,” she said softly, ears flat against her head.

“And it was one of my biggest mistakes. It seems that even princesses have faults.”

Twilight lowered herself to the floor, tucking her legs under her body and ducking her head. Celestia stood.

“I will be asking my guards to fetch him so you two can say your goodbyes.”

“Please, princess, don’t take him,” she whispered, tears gathering in her eyes.

Princess Celestia made her way down the steps and halted in front of her pupil. The alicorn bent down and lowered herself to the floor, trying to catch Twilight’s eye. She tucked her legs as well, mimicking Twilight’s stance. She extended a neatly-trimmed wing and wrapped it around her student. Twilight raised her head, tears streaking down her face. Celestia placed a gold-plated hoof under Twilight’s chin, lifting her head and leveling it with her own.

“Twilight, look at me.” Twilight did not look.

“Twilight Sparkle, look at your princess,” she demanded, eyes betraying her calm exterior. Violet snapped to hot pink.

“What did you think was going to happen, my dear student? Did you think you and Spike were going to live together in Ponyville forever? Spike will one day grow, grow much bigger than this castle we lay in. You will die and Spike will live. Who will keep him under wraps? I have much more important means than keeping tabs on a predator in my country.”

“Spike wouldn’t attack anypony!” Twilight exclaimed, standing up.

“Oh? And is this the same Spike who after getting a few gifts for his birthday grew into a fifty-foot dragon and rampaged through Ponyville?” Celestia challenged, standing to her full height and unfurling her wings, raising them threateningly at her sides.

“You can’t judge creatures by their worst mistakes! Your sister turned into Nightmare Moon and tried to cast eternal night on Equestria, but you forgave her!” Twilight yelled, cowering before her but practically muzzle-to-muzzle with her mentor.

“That is different!” Celestia shouted in her royal canterlot voice. Twilight gripped at the floor with her hooves, awkwardly trying to stay on the ground from the sheer power emitted from the princess before her. She pawed at the ground with her front hooves, her lips and mane pulling back, her tail snapping and thrashing in the air behind her.

“How?” she cried, all but crumbling to the ground, panting and quivering. “How is it different, my princess? Because he’s a dragon? Please. Please, princess, I’ll do anything! Let me prove to you that he’s not dangerous! Please, let him stay! I’ll let him go off on his own in the Dragonlands when he’s ready, I’ll keep him confined to Ponyville, I’ll end my studies, I-I’ll stop being your student! Just please, don’t make me leave him. You can’t ask me to do that!” she implored, sobs wracking her frame.

She collapsed at her mentor’s hooves, hugging the alicorn’s front leg. She whimpered and sniffled, forehead pressed into the princess’ leg.

“I’m begging of you, please don’t take Spike...”

Celestia seemed to consider this for a moment, before resting a garnished hoof on Twilight’s head and shoving her student off. Twilight looked up at her, wide eyes pooling with tears that had long soaked the fur of her face, matting and discoloring it.

“It has already been decided.”

The frantic unicorn shook her head, her disheveled bangs catching on her drooping ears.

“No. No, you don’t get to decide that. With all due respect, Princess Celestia, you can’t banish him all because of a simple ideation or your prejudice against dragons! He’s my family! Mine! You can’t take him! He’s just a baby dragon! He won’t hurt anypony!” Twilight shouted hoarsely, practically tripping over her hooves to get in front of the princess, blocking the entrance.

“Please don’t do this, your highness. Please. There’s still time to change your mind,” she whispered, ears pressed against her head. She hadn’t called Celestia ‘your highness’ since she was a filly, but she was desperate and panicked and clinging to anything that could change the princess’ mind.

Celestia lowered her nose to nuzzle her student’s cheek and perambulated past the unicorn and through the doors of the throne room. The doors swung closed and the room was empty once more.

She curled up in the right corner closest to the doors, hiding her face in her tail. Broken sobs escaped past her lips and she wasn’t sure if the absence of hoofsteps in the hallway were because the princess teleported or if she simply couldn’t hear them over the sound of her own gasps and hiccups.

“Twilight!” A faded voice echoed through the entire room.

“Twilight!” Came the booming voice a second time, bouncing off the walls.

“TWILIGHT!” All noises were drown out by a familiar voice and her vision blurred white as the room spun around her.

~~

Twilight shook her head, blinking hard a few times as she looked around, taking in the new but familiar surroundings. She watched as Spike raced down the obsidian steps, sharp claws clicking against the crystal staircase.

“I know you told me to stay up there but you were down here for such a long time and you weren’t answering and I got worried so I came down here and you were just staring at that wall! And I was calling your name but I couldn’t seem to get your attention and--what were you looking at?” he rambled, going off on a tangent and gesturing wildly with his claws. He waddled up curiously to the door, inspecting it. 

“I mean, it’s just a wall,” he stated, before the whites of his eyes turned green and his irises and pupils turned different shades of red.

Twilight quickly pulled him back from the door, kicking the door closed with her back hoof. His eyes returned to normal while hers filled with involuntary tears.

“Twi . .?” Spike asked cautiously, claw reaching out tediously towards her. “Are you okay?”

Suddenly, the unicorn leapt at the baby dragon, tackling him to the ground. She swaddled him up in her arms, the two rolling on the floor a few times before she lazily ended up on her back, hindquarters sprawled out and tail flicking excitedly.

“SPIKE! Oh, Spike, I’m so happy to see you,” she cooed, lifting him up by the armpits in the air, his back legs and tail just barely grazing the fur on her stomach. He stared down at Twilight’s tear-stricken face, growing increasingly more concerned by the second.

“I’m . . . happy to see you too, but why are you acting so weird?” he asked, maneuvering his body to bend down, gently wiping a tear from her cheek. He was careful not to cut her skin or poke her eye out with his claw. She sniffled, letting her front legs give out. He settled on her chest and she wrapped all four legs around him, nuzzling his cheek with her nose.

“H-hey! Twi! S-stop! I’m not a hatchling anymore and, heh, your fur tickles! Knock it off!” he laughed, trying to shy away from the unicorn, who was continuing her onslaught of nuzzles and nose-kisses.

Once she was satisfied with the number of nudges and cuddles, she pushed herself up, letting Spike slide in between her hind legs. She swiped a hoof over the spines on his head and Spike looked up at her, all wide-eyed and innocent. The face that Fake-Celestia had tried to send away.

She glanced over at the door, biting the inside of her cheek.

“King Sombra’s dark magic. A door that leads to your worst fears,” she explained, pointing to the door with a hoof while wrapping her tail around Spike’s midsection.

“Did that fear have . . something to do with me?” he asked, playing with her tail and trying to smooth out the frazzled pieces.

“Yes,” she said softly.

He looked up at her again, before turning his body sideways and resting his cheek against her stomach; her soft, purple fur feeling warm and oddly cozy on his smooth scales. He propped his back legs on her left hindquarter as Twilight unraveled her tail from around him.

“Do you wanna talk about it?”

“Not particularly,” she answered and it was the truth. She really, really did not want to think about it right now. All she wanted to do was sit with her dragon and pretend like it never happened. It wasn’t real, it was a hallucination. It shouldn’t be shaking her up so badly.

“When I have nightmares and stuff . . . you always say that it’s good to talk about it with somepony. Not good to bottle it up and all that,” he tried, glancing up at her.

“Maybe later, Spike,” she responded, giving him a soft noogie on the forehead.

They sat in silence for a few moments, just basking in each other’s company, until Spike spoke up.

“Soo . . . about King Sombra.”

Twilight’s eyes widened and she jumped up on all fours, knocking Spike over in the process. “OmigodtheCrystalEmpireKingSombratheTEST!”

She galloped over to the door, igniting her horn and blasting a stream of magenta magic into the rhombus-shaped crystal above it. A rainbow cast around the drab room and Spike looked on in awe. Twilight lifted the door’s handle with her magic and threw open the door to reveal an intensly pristine white room.

“C’mon, Spike, hop on! I have a Crystal Empire to save and a test to pass!” she exclaimed, as Spike hoisted himself onto her back and wrapped his arms around her neck, holding on tightly as she dashed up a new flight of stairs.

[promisedangel]

Drake’s Surprise

This is a commission that feels long overdue, despite no due date, because of the material. The commissioner has become a “brother from another mother” to me, so when I offered a commission for his birthday, he took to the idea fondly. And here it is at long last, despite his birthday being a while ago. A nice break from all my grimdark fanfiction. Enjoy this nice My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic commission. DaWillstanator/Thespio and Scribbler’s ponysonas were used with permission. The other OCs are mine and my/the commissioner’s various brony friends.

Drake Emberheart, a tall, blue, clydsdale-esque stallion, trotted through Ponyville. His braided red mane held a charm etched with the symbol of the sun on the upper charm of the two that held his braid in place. A set of two plain charms also held in a braid on his long tail. His cutie mark appeared to be a golden large belt buckle, much like ones won in feats of strength, nested on top of wings. Said wings had flames jutting out of the sides, and the wings matched the colors of the flames.

He trotted up to a quaint cafe and entered. He looked around the cafe, crowded by the lunch rush. A familiar hoof waved in his direction. A darker blue pegasus stallion waved and exclaimed, “Over here, Drake!”

Drake approached the stallion. He recognized this as one of his friends; Balance Keeper. As he approached, Drake could finally see half of his mane matched Balance Keeper’s coat, yet the other half of the near zigzagged mane was a deeper red than Drake’s own mane. Balance Keeper’s red eyes locked onto Drake before they turned to the three others who sat at the table.

Sitting next to him was a smaller unicorn with a near monotone yellow coat. Her mane held two tones, a chocolate brown and some thick cream colored highlights. Her mane was simple flowing down to her legs. A cream highlight covered her bangs. Her tail poofed behind her, almost as though she sat on a fluffy bed. Some of the puffy mane was disheveled. Drake knew this pony as Promised Angel. He always found the name of this pony strange considering she wasn’t a pegasus.

Next to her was another mare, this one an earth pony. Her coat was a dark grey color. Her mane was an evenly distributed light blue and pink. Despite the light tone of her mane, her blue eyes were even lighter. Her mane flowed and puffed, but not as long as Promised Angel’s mane. Scribbler was this pony’s name.

Lastly, another male unicorn. His coat and mane were simple; a teal blue and a light brown respectively. He was the only pony wearing clothes, only wearing a simple red shirt. His brown eyes were not hidden behind his black, large-framed glasses. Drake knew this pony, Thespio, well.

Drake sat down at the table with a sigh, “Sorry I’m late, everypony.” Scribbler shook her head and held up a hoof, “We’ve only just arrived ourselves.” Promised Angel spoke dryly as she closed her menu, “You’re fine, Drake.” Drake turned to Thespio and Scribbler, “I… I hope I didn’t drag you away from your busy schedules…” Thespio waves a hoof lightly, “Not really. I’m free this afternoon so this was easy to fit in." Scribbler nodded, “It’s the weekend, unless I’m involved with a huge project, I always have the time.” Drake gave a relieved sigh, “Thank goodness.”

He frowned. His ears drooped slightly as he began to speak, “It’s just that… I’m so lucky to have found new friends so quickly after I was banished.” Balance Keeper snickered, “Yeah, these have been a busy few months with everypony.” Promised Angel raised a brow, “You… never told us why you were banished in the first place…” Thespio gently, and quickly, intervened, “I… don’t think that’s important right now.” Drake nodded, “Not as important as thanking you for all your help adjusting to Equestria. I am really grateful to you four and everypony else, too!” Promised Angel snickered, “Is this why you invited us to lunch? To thank us again?” Balance Keeper frowned and replied dryly, “I invited you two… Drake invited Scribbler and Thespio.” Promised Angel lowered her head, almost chastised, “Oh.” Drake laughed, “Why wouldn’t I thank you? Where would I be without you all?” Promised Angel replied with a raised eyebrow, “I thought Princess Celestia was helping you a lot?” Drake motioned a hoof in a circular manner, “Eehhh, sort of? She’s incredibly busy, so I don’t want to ask too much from her.” Scribble sipped from her drink before she spoke, “Well, I’m glad we can still help when we can.”

Drake sniffled, “Gosh it’s so great to hear that. I can’t wait to celebrate my birthday with everypony next week!” The table went silent for a moment. There was naught a smile on anypony but Drake. The rest held varied levels of shock. Balance Keeper broke the silence, “Your… birthday is next week?” Drake’s expression evened before he nodded, “Yeah. One week from today.” He tilted his head in confusion, “Did I forget to mention that before?” Promised Angel piped up nervously, “I mean, we probably heard you say something about that before? And I forgot?” She rubbed her head slightly, “We know how forgetful, I am! Hehe!” Thespio quickly recovered, “I-I knew there was something important next week!” Under the table, Thespio nudged Scribble with a hoof. Scribbler perked up and nodded adamantly, “Y-Yes! Gosh, I’ve been so busy, I’d nearly forgotten!” Drake relaxed, “That’s okay. I just hope I can hang out with as many of you as I can!”

While Drake relaxed, most of the table felt awkward and stressed. A heavy silence coated the table, despite the noise of the cafe. It was nearly a minute of silence. Finally, Promised Angel broke the tension, “So… is everyone ready to order?” Balance Keeper, Scribbler, and Thespio relaxed, They all gave confirmation and quickly ordered. Thankfully, the lunch held no other stressful events.

——————————————————————————————

Drake waved a hoof to his friends, now all in front of the cafe, “See you later!” Thespio, Balance Keeper, Scribbler, and Promised Angel all waved their goodbyes to their kirin friend. Once he was out of earshot, Balance Keeper turned to the group, “So… who else forgot Drake’s birthday was next week?” Promised Angel raised and hoof with a groan, “I did… Celestia, I’m bucking stupid for forgetting something like that…” Scribbler grumbled, “To be honest, I’d forgotten as well…” Thespio’s tone was calm and collected, “Well, maybe we should use this time to make up for forgetting? It is his first birthday in Equestria, after all.” Balance Keeper raised an eyebrow, “So… like a party?” Thespio shrugged, “Well… yeah? That’s what you do at birthdays. How about a surprise party?” Scribbler beamed, “I think that’s a wonderful idea!” Promised Angel mused, “Yeah, it is, but… can we even get a party planner so soon?” Scribbler gave a calm smile, “If we can’t, we can make the party ourselves!” Thespio mused, “Hey… isn’t Drake good friends with Rainbow Dash? Maybe she could help!” Promised Angel perked up, “Yeah! And maybe she can help us ask Pinkie Pie for some help, too!” Balance Keeper shrugged, “Alright, so… is there any other friends Drake’s made while he’s been here that can help out?” Promised Angel nodded, “There’s been a few.” She lifted her hoof and moved it as though she counted in the air, “There’s us, Madluck, Star Song, Dusk Beats, Ghost Catcher, that sheep, I think his name is Piximal? Oh! And that up and coming DJ; Luck Rock!” Thespio nodded, “That’s a nice gathering of ponies! And… a sheep… Um.. Promised, why don’t you go find all of them and invite them?” Balance Keeper perked up, “I’m seeing Star Song soon, so maybe I can tell him and Madluck.” Promised Angel frowned, “And I don’t know how to contact Luck Rock…” Scribbler mused, “That shouldn’t be too difficult. I can take care of that.” Thespio gave a determined gaze, “Okay. I’m going to talk to Rainbow Dash, anyone want to come with me?” Balance Keeper raised a hoof, “She knows I’m friends with Drake, so I guess I should come, too.” Scribbler calmly explained, “Ok. I say we all try to meet in a few days in person. In the meantime, we have letters. Does everypony have a way to contact each other?”

The group began to exchange information in quiet whispers. They all soon went their separate ways, only Thespio and Balance Keeper stayed together and trotted along to find Rainbow Dash.

——————————————————————————

“Are you sure she’s here?” Thespio tilted his head in confusion at the building he was looking at. A bookstore, one with a long line of ponies with books in mouth, satchel, hoof, or magic, waiting to get in. A few were in a costume of some explorer pegasus. Balance Keeper gave a sly smile, “Trust me. If there’s a new Daring Do book coming out, Rainbow Dash is going to be at the first day of release.” Thespio slowed and watched Balance Keeper confidently trot into the bookstore. He sighed then smiled, “Alright, if you say so.”

The two managed to push past the crowd of ponies, all of whom glared at the possible trespassers to their place in line. Near the center of the bookstore, Thespio and Balance Keeper spotted a table where the ponies would eventually reach. Behind the table was a heavy clothed pony, A.K Yearling. On both sides of the table were security ponies, yet to her left was one other pony; Rainbow Dash. She and A.K were chatting away in-between A.K’s signings. Rainbow Dash noticed Balance Keeper and Thespio approach. She waved in recognition, “Oh! Hey, Balance!” She frowned, “Sooo, if you’re here for a signature… you’re gonna have to get in line like everypony else…” She points a hoof at herself proudly, “I’ve been here since last night!” Balance Keeper and Thespio approached the table on Rainbow’s side. The security ponies glared at them. Rainbow Dash was quick to notice this and waved a hoof to them, “It’s ok. They’re fine.” The security ponies looked at A.K Yearling nervously. She gave them a calm nod in response. The security ponies relaxed. Balance Keeper spoke, with a hoof rubbing his mane, “Actually, we need to talk to you about something.” Rainbow Dash raised a brow, “Huh? What about?” Thespio answered nervously, “Well… a few of us… forgot that um… Drake Emberheart’s birthday is next week-" Rainbow Dash jumped into the air and nearly shouted, “Whoa- Seriously?!”

A.K Yearling gave the group a smile, “Well, this seems important. Rainbow Dash, we can continue our conversation later.” Rainbow Dash frowned at first, but then gave A.K Yearling a smile, “Sure! I’ll catch up with ya later!”

Thespio, Rainbow Dash, and Balance Keeper all exited the bookstore and found a nearby bench to sit at. Rainbow Dash began, “So, Drake’s birthday is next week? I do remember him saying it was really soon, but I didn’t think it was that soon!” Thespio nodded, “Yeah. He said it was in exactly one week.” Rainbow Dash sighed, “Dangit. I’m pretty sure Pinkie Pie’s booked that whole day!” Thespio gave a reassuring smile, “I’m… sure we can make all the plans ourselves if we need. If we can get everypony who knows, and everypony Promised Angel mentioned… we’d have…” He silently put his hoof in the air and counted in his head before he spoke again, “Eleven of us. All the ponies Drake knows. One of which is a DJ, so we have music covered.” Balance Keeper raised a brow, “So, do you wanna help?” Rainbow Dash beamed, “Of course I wanna help! Drake has been awesome since he’s arrived! Of course I want to help with a party where everypony is going to be there!

Balance Keeper slapped his hoof to his face, “Buck! We forgot the most important pony! Princess Celestia!” The three of them were dazed silent for a moment. Thespio broke the silence. He posed a question to Rainbow Dash “You know Celestia pretty well, right?” Rainbow Dash grimaced lightly, “Not as well as, say, Twilight…” She regained her confident grin, “But, I do kinda know her.” Balance Keeper sighed in relief, “Good. Do you think you can ask her if she wants to help, too?” Rainbow Dash blinked. She reared back slightly in surprise, “You want me to ask Celestia to go to Drake’s party?” Balance Keeper nodded seriously, “I think it would mean a lot to Drake if she was there as well. Don’t you think? I mean, he does kind of see her as a mom, sort of.” Rainbow Dash ‘hmmed’ for a moment. She put a hoof to her chin. She smiled, “Alright! I think I can convince her. For Drake. It’s uh… next week, right?” Thespio confirmed, “One week exactly.” Rainbow Dash flew a couple feet into the air, “Okay! I’ll see what I can do!” Thespio shouted up to her, “We’ll get together sometime in the next few days to set everything up, okay?” Rainbow Dash nodded, “Right! Catch ya later!” Rainbow Dash quickly flew into the distance towards Canterlot.

———————————————————————————————

Celestia’s calm exterior hid the tiredness she had begun to feel. It was mid-afternoon and she was already tired. She sat in her throne room, papers before her encased in her magic to hold them and a quill aloft. Things were quiet for a few more minutes.

One of her guards quickly rushed into the throne room, “P-Princess Celestia.” Celestia looked up from her papers at the stallion guard. Her tone was calm and regal, “Yes, is something the matter?” The guard sighed, “I… I know you are busy, but you have a visitor who says she needs to see you as soon as possible.” Hints of worry began to leak through Celestia’s gaze. Was it Twilight? No, she would send a message through Spike first. It couldn’t be Drake, the guard said ‘she’ for certain. Celestia paused only a moment before she asked, “May I ask her name?” The guard nodded, “It’s miss Rainbow Dash.” Celestia blinked in surprise. Of all of Twilight’s friends, for Rainbow Dash to approach her was not something she had expected. This could be potentially very serious. Celestia set her papers down at the side of her throne. Her gaze turned serious as she nodded, “Let her in.” The guard bowed lightly before he turned back to the door. He opened it and spoke, “Come on in-“ In a flurry of wind, the familiar blue pegasus flew past the doors into the room. A few guards had to brace from the wind. Celestia’s mane only moved for a second. Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she landed, “About time! I told you she’d want to see me!”

The guards in the room were on edge. They held their weapons tightly and waited. Celestia was quick to notice this and spoke to her guards, “It is alright. In fact, may we have the room?” The guards paused, but eventually relaxed. Each nodded silently before all the guards filed out of the room. After a moment, Celestia relaxed with a sigh, “Out of all of Twilight’s friends, I must admit you are one of the last ponies I expected a visit from.” Rainbow approached the foot of Celestia’s throne, her hoof jostled her mane slight. The movement was accompanied by a nervous chuckle, “Yeah, sorry for showing up like this, but it’s kinda important.” Rainbow Dash stiffened and waved a hoof nervously, “I mean- It’s not ‘fate of Equestria’ important, but- I mean!” She calmed with a frown, “It’s… it’s about Drake…” Celestia’s gaze widened slightly. She stood from her throne and began to descend from it, “Drake Emberheart? What happened? Is he alright?” Rainbow Dash nodded, “He’s fine, but… his birthday is one week from today.” Celestia paused in front of Rainbow Dash. She was relieved this visit wasn’t for anything grave, yet it still was important. Celestia smiled calmly, “Is it that soon already?” Rainbow Dash sat her flank on the floor, “Yeah. A bunch of us were gonna throw him a surprise birthday and Balance Keeper thought you should help out. I mean, he said Drake does think highly of you- more than a ruler.” Celestia sat as well. She gave a nostalgic smile, “I have done what I could to help Drake adjust to life here in Equestria. Even the charm that gives him his pony form was created by my order.” She chuckled slightly, “His reaction to the charm was endearing.”

Her expression evened out. She looked down at Rainbow Dash, “I must ask; how is Drake adjusting to Ponyville? Has there been any trouble?” Rainbow Dash rubbed her chin with a hoof, “Well… nothing major. He did freak out a few ponies by breathing fire upwards when he was stoked about something. And there was that time Drake was so hungry he almost attacked a cow, but he made up for that, too.” Celestia chuckled, “He can be energetic, can’t he?” Rainbow Dash gave a determined gaze, “Don’t have to tell me! He’s a really fast flier when he does use his original form! He still struggles to beat me, though!”

Rainbow Dash digressed, “But, anyway. Like I said, a bunch of us are starting to pull everyone Drake knows into a surprise party for him next week. I agree with Balance Keeper that you should come, too!” Celestia beamed, “I would be more than happy to aid! I think I have a few ideas, already. Why don’t you spend most of the day with Drake while I help everypony else set up the party?” Rainbow Dash blinked in surprise. She spoke incredulously, “You want me to be the distraction?” Celestia replied dryly, “I trust that there will be no issue with it? He does look up to you as well.” Rainbow Dash replied nervously, “N-no, ma’am! I can do it! I-it kinda came out of nowhere!” Celestia stood with a frown, “It’s alright, you have time to think things through, even if you don’t want to lead him to the party. After all, we all have a week to plan.”

—————————————————————————————————

The week had come and passed. All of Drake’s friends were busy with the party planning. A few had visited him throughout the week, but most of their spare time was dedicated to the party. Despite this, the party still needed set up, and many of the ponies still had things to pick up.

Drake eagerly trotted through Ponyville. Rainbow Dash approached him yesterday and said to meet her tomorrow for a birthday surprise. Ecstatic, he immediately accepted. All he had to do was meet up with her at the train station. On his way he noticed two of his friends; Dusk Beats and Ghost Catcher. Dusk Beats was a unicorn stallion, almost as thin as a mare. His coat was a near sky blue. His mane was simple, with stripes of punch pink and flamingo pink. His eyes were the punch pink color. His cutie mark was a digital equalizer. His companion, the mare next to him, was an earth pony of black fur. Her mane swirled with neon blue and green, akin to ghost tails, which matched her ghostly cutie mark.

Drake perked up and nearly galloped over to the two of them. He called out, “Dusk! Ghost!” Dusk Beats and Ghost Catcher immediately stood on end. Ghost Catcher seemed to fiddle with her saddlebags as Drake approached. Dusk Beats at first seemed nervous, but soon calmed. He exclaimed, “Hey, Drake!” Ghost Catcher calmed after that. She  spoke, “Happy birthday, Drake.” Drake beamed as he reached the two. He spoke happily, “Thanks so much! Are you two busy? I’m meeting with Rainbow Dash, but maybe we can all hang out together!?” Dusk Beats gave an apologetic look, “Sorry, I wish we could we’re just…” Ghost Catcher finished, “We’re a bit busy at the moment! But, I swear! We’ll do something later tonight, okay?!” Drake’s smile descended to disappointment. His head knelt down slightly. His voice quieted, “Oh…I see…” Dusk Beats smiled, “We’ll see you tonight, okay?”

Drake nodded silently, disappointment strewn across his face. Dusk Beats and Ghost Catcher quickly gave Drake a quick hug before they left. Drake stood there for a moment before he proceeded towards the train station. There, he saw another friend of his; Promised Angel. Her horn illuminated a list he could not read. She appeared to be talking to herself quietly, too quiet for Drake to hear with the chatting ponies around them. Drake smiled and approached her. He could her say, “And I still have to get that…” She sighed and pouted. Drake spoke, “Thinking out loud again?” Promised Angel nearly jumped. She turned towards Drake. She gave a heavy sigh, “Oh, it’s just you Drake, don’t scare me like-“ Her face turned nervous for a second. Drake was quick to notice, “Are you okay?” Promised Angel nodded quickly, “Y-yeah! Oh! Um, happy birthday!” Drake smiled, “Thank you! Hey, I’m supposed to meet Rainbow Dash here, did you want to hang out with us?” Promised Angel huffed and pouted, “I can’t. I got a lot of errands to run today. I should be free later on… I’m just waiting for the next train.” Drake’s ears drooped, as did his expression, “Oh…” Promised Angel’s pout turned apologetic, “I should be free sometime in the afternoon.” Drake explained, “You’re… not the first to say something like that today…” Promised Angel stood on end. Her voice shook, “Oh… really?”

Promised Angel fell silent for a few moments. She then smiled, “Well! That just means you can have a big party with everypony later!” Drake blinked in surprise. He then smiled brightly once more, “Yeah! You’re right!”

A third voice poked into the conversation, “Hah! Never takes much to find you in a crowd, Drake!” Drake and Promised Angel quickly noticed the blue pegasus that budded into the conversation. Rainbow Dash. Promised Angel gave a sigh of relief, “H-hi Rainbow Dash.” The next train could be heard in the distance. With the noise of the train, Promised Angel mouthed something to Rainbow Dash quickly. Rainbow Dash turned to Drake and shouted over the train’s horn, “C’mon! Let’s fly!” Promised Angel panicked, “Although you might want to move away from the station before you transform!” Rainbow Dash nodded, “Over here!” Rainbow Dash lead Drake away from the train platform. She looked back at Promised Angel with a nod.

Drake stood at a decent distance from the train station. He breathed in deeply before he concentrated. His sun charm began to glow softly. In the same shining light, Drake’s pony form changed. His face and chest jutted out, slowly more draconic in nature. What was once the hair of his coat became hard scales. His crimson hair melted into flames that whisked off his head gently. His horn disappeared, but the sun charm stayed. Untouched by the flames that surrounded it. From His back, two wings of burning flames jutted out. Finally, his cutie mark disappeared from sight.

A few ponies stared at the transformation. However, many of those same ponies became distracted by the train. Rainbow smirked at Drake, now that his true form had been unmasked, “Think you can keep up this time?” Drake returned with a determined grin, “No problem!”

The two jumped into the skies. Each raced side by side. The flames on Drake’s form barely flickered, though hints of embers trailed behind. Inch by inch the two practically danced in the sky. It wasn’t long before Rainbow Dash pulled ahead, much to Drake’s surprise. He couldn’t catch up. Rainbow Dash soon slowed enough to allow Drake to keep pace. Rainbow Dash smiled, “Been a while since we had a race, huh?” Drake chuckled, “Yeah! You’re still fast, as always!” Rainbow Dash smiled for a moment. She turned forward, “Sooo, about that surprise, you can probably see it by now!” Drake raised a brow, “Huh?”

Drake turned his gaze forward. The two had been flying towards a large stadium. A few ponies had begun to set up a few obstacles. Many ponies seemed to patiently wait outside the stadium as well. Drake recognized this well; this was a setup to a Wonderbolt performance. His eyes lit up, “YOU’RE TAKING ME TO A WONDERBOLT PERFORMANCE!?” Rainbow Dash nodded, “Not only that, you’re in the VIP, buddy! Enjoy it!” Drake suddenly breathed a torrent of fire upwards. He roared out, “THANK YOOOOUUUU!!!” Rainbow Dash dodged the flames with a bit of panic. Once she was safe from the flames, she laughed, “You’re welcome! Enjoy the show!”

——————————————————————————————

The crowd cheered heavily as the Wonderbolts finished their performance. Drake had returned to his pony form as to not draw attention from the crowd. After a large round of applause, the crowd began to disperse. Rainbow Dash flew down to Drake’s seat. She removed her goggles and tugged on Drake, “C’mon! I convinced the team to stay a bit and talk with ya, too!” Drake smiled and hopped out of his seat. Rainbow Dash flew low to the ground as Drake trotted nervously towards the Wonderbolts in this show; Spitfire, Thunderlane, and Soarin. Spitfire was the first to notice Drake and Rainbow Dash approach. She gave an authoritative, but disappointed tone, “So, this is your friend? Kinda disappointing he’s not a pegasus; we could use the fresh meat at the academy.” Drake chuckled nervously before he responded, “Well, actually, I can fly.” Rainbow Dash landed and affirmed, “Yeah, he’s pretty good, too.” Thunderlane pointed a hoof toward’s Drake’s back, “How can he fly without wings? Does he float with magic or something?” Drake closed his eyes. He once more concentrated on the sun charm and transformed to his true self. Spitfire, Thunderlane, and Soarin all gaped in shock. Soarin exclaimed, “No way! I real life kirin! That’s awesome!” Rainbow Dash smirked, “Yeah! He totally is!” Drake blinked in surprise, “You’re… not afraid?” Spitfire shrugged, “Some ponies might be afraid, but we’re in a dangerous business. Gotta have some backbone to survive the academy. Maybe we can show you around this evening?” Drake noticed the sun had begun to lower in the sky behind Spitfire. He frowned at Spitfire, “I… I would love to, but… I should probably go find some of my friends. Everyone was so busy this morning, I hope they’re all free.”

Rainbow Dash came up to him with some stress in her voice, “Uh, hey? What’s the rush? You just got offered a free tour of the academy!” Drake sighed, “I saw Promised Angel, Ghost Catcher, and Dusk Beats today. They all were very busy, but they said they’re be free later. I haven’t heard from anypony else either… I just… want to know why everyone but you is busy today…” Rainbow Dash frowned. She looked at the sky and grimaced for a moment. She spoke out, “Um… I dunno. If they seemed that busy, then maybe we can stick around for a little bit.” Drake shook his head, “Promised Angel is usually quick about things. Dusk Beats and Ghost Catcher get things done because they’re together. I know Thespio and Scribbler are always busy, but they make time for things like this…”

Rainbow Dash sighed. She had no other option. She spoke, “Well… some of them could be at the next place we’re going to.” Drake blinked, “Wait, this wasn’t all? The show, and talking to the Wonderbolts, what else did you do for me, Rainbow Dash?!” Rainbow Dash looked away, “I um… convinced Princess Celestia to um… make time for a special dinner. We’re gonna meet with her later. I… I dunno if everypony will be there, but…” A few tears leaked from Drake’s eyes. Rainbow Dash grew concerned, “Are you ok, Drake?” Drake nodded, “I… I had no idea… so that’s why they were busy…” Rainbow Dash smiled and changed the topic, “So, we got time for a quick tour of Wonderbolt Academy, you still wanna do it?” Drake wiped his tears away. He nodded, “Sure!” Drake followed the Wonderbolts promptly. All of them had gotten to chat during the tour. Drake had never been so happy.

———————————————————————————

“So, where did you say we were meeting Princess Celestia?” Drake questioned Rainbow Dash. The two had landed in Canterlot after the tour had ended. The sun was hustled on the horizon; the evening had begun. Drake once more was in his pony form. Though it mattered little as this part of Canterlot was not as populated as the more mainstream areas. Up ahead on a nearby bench, Drake saw a pony that was cloaked. As the two drew nearer, Drake recognized this as Celestia. Drake smiled and gave a light bow, “It’s great to see you again, Princess Celestia.” Celestia chuckled, “My, you haven’t changed a bit.” Celestia stood from the bench, “Come, let us go.” Drake nodded and followed behind Celestia, “Soo, where are we having dinner? I thought the chefs at the castle made good food?" Celestia looked back for a moment, “They do, but only Luna will be enjoying their cooking tonight.” Rainbow Dash smiled, “I’m sure dinner will still be good without the royal chefs!”

The three happened upon a small, unmarked building. Celestia motioned, “Here we are.” Drake raised a brow, “This… doesn’t look like a restaurant. Is it new, or something?” Celestia’s horn went aglow with magic. She opened the door without hesitation. Inside, Drake could only see darkness. He stepped forward with Celestia. He was nervous. His gaze fluttered around the dark room until he fully stepped inside.

A click sounded. The lights turned on. Drake had to close his eyes from the sudden light. He heard a crowd shout out, “SURPRISE!!” His eyes opened. They widened with shock at the sight. Balloons and streamers hung high on the ceiling and decorated the numerous tables. A banner high in the air with the words “Happy Birthday Drake” painted on it. On a few of the tables were a large assortment of foods from appetizers to deserts. At the center of the deserts table was a large, three-tiered cake, each tier with a different color. But the thing that brought tears to Drake’s eyes was the sight of everypony there. Everyone he had grown to know during his few months in Equestria was there. All of them cheered for him.

Drake suddenly felt a weight on his back. He looked up to see Rainbow Dash smiling down at him. She spoke, “Bet you didn’t expect this!” Drake sniffled, “N-no… I didn’t…” Celestia, now uncloaked, pulled Drake into a hug. With a smile, she spoke, “Happy birthday, Drake. I wouldn’t have missed this for the world.” Celestia pulled away from the hug. Thespio and Scribbler stepped forth from the crowd. Thespio exclaimed, “Yeah! Nopony would!" Scribbler smiled with a hoof to her face, “It was almost exhausting to put together, but everypony pulled through in the end.” Promised Angel chuckled nervously, “Sorry about all the deceit, Drake, but it wouldn’t be a surprise party if we told you…”

Drake’s tears flowed heavily. He almost felt as though he would burst from this kindness. He whipped his tears away and began to speak, “I… I was so worried when everypony seemed busy today. I was so scared I wasn’t going to see anypony today. But… seeing everypony here… I just… I never thought moving here would result in great friends like all of you!” Thespio smirked, “Well of course we’re your friends!” Scribbler chuckled, “You’ve always been so earnest and curious. I think we all took to that fondly.” Promised Angel shrugged, “I somehow get adopted by extroverts, it just happens.” Drake chuckled, “Yeah, but you party when you want to, so I hope you’re up for it now!” Thespio pointed to the DJ table, where a pony lay in wait, “You heard the guest of honor! Let’s get this party started!”

The ponies of the party cheered. Luck Rock began to play the music and the party began. Many indulged in food and cider, while others rocked the dance floor. Everything was going well until the doors flew open. A familiar pink pony shrilly shouted, “YOU HAD A PARTY AND YOU DIDN’T INVITE ME!!?” Rainbow Dash blinked, a piece of cake balanced on her wing, “Uh… Pinkie? You were booked the whole day, weren’t you?” Pinkie Pie retorted with a gasp, “No, silly! That was exactly one week ago!~” Rainbow Dash blinked. She put a hoof behind her head, “Oops… I guess we could have gotten your help…” Pinkie, Drake, and a few others began to laugh at this sudden party foul. Thankful in the end it was the only one that night.

[ask-princess-slaughter-shy]

Princess Slaughter Shy 2 (Page 4)

An original My Little Pony Creepypasta by Zaine McCartney 

“Say no more!” She zipped around the room like a bat out of hell, gathering pots and pans and bowls and spoons along with ingredients such as milk, butter, eggs, cupcake mix, frosting, refridgerated green apples, sugar, sprinkles, and an apple slicer. She preheated one of the many ovens and got to work mixing.

     She had already gotten the ingredients mixed fully and placed into the oven before Night even had a chance to sit down. He was absolutely stunned at how fast she was. The only thing she had left to do was chop the apples into eight even pieces and she had that task done in a record time of ten seconds. Cupcakes usually took seven to ten minutes to bake so during this time her and Night played a game of Go Fish with a deck of cards. Pinkie had already collected sex sets while Night had only four.

     “Do you have any nines?” Asked Night.

     “Go Fish.” Pinkie giggled.

     Night drew another card from the deck and sat another set in his pile of matches. The timer then started to go off prompting Pinkie to push pause on the game and trot to the oven. The whole building was filled with their wondrous scent, practically making anypony who walked by salivate and want to come in for a sample.

     Meanwhile on the other end of town Sky Soarer stood at the edge of the porch staring at a white door that stood in his way of seeing his parents and son again. He was shaking, not from nerves but from a flood of fledgling emotions that swept through his heart. He wanted to get his bareings in order before he saw his family. He lifted his right front hoof and knocked on the door four times then backed up a few steps and eagerly waited  for the door to open.

     A middle-aged mare with light grey hair pulled back into a loose bun and a soft blue coat opened the door. Her posture went as stiff as a wooden board and her right front hoof shot up unintentionally. Her eyes were the only part of her that was moving, their golden depths bouncing all around the stallion’s body. “S-Sky Soa-” she couldn’t finish his name thanks to her voice cracking. “Is it really you..?”

     He smiled warmly at her. “Yes, mom. It’s me.”

     “Cloud Shaper! Come quick! And bring Thunder Storm with you!” She called out before wrapping her arms around her son, kissing his cheeks repeatedly.

     Hoof steps got louder and louder along with the pitter-patter of smaller hooves. “What’s all the fuss about, Stormy Sky?” His jaw dropped abruptly when he entered the hallway and saw Sky Soarer in the doorway.

     “Daddy!” Exclaimed the small black colt with silver eyes and an electric blue mane.

     “Thunder Storm!” Sky’s mother let go of him so him and the little colt could collide into a warm and loving embrace.

     Thunder nuzzled into his father’s chest, uncontrollably weeping with joyous tears.

     “I’ve missed you so much.” Sky said softly, a few tears of his own splashing off his chin.

     “Why didn’t you come home?” Asked Thunder with large hurt eyes.

     A knot caught in his throat, struggling with all his might he held back his tears and gave a glum look to his parents. They returned the same look. “I wanted to, believe me. But…” he bit his bottom lip and swallowed hard, losing against his battle with his emotions. “Daddy can’t come home anymore…”

     The small colt’s ears folded backwards, betrayal and confusion mixed in his never blinking eyes that were glued to his father’s. “Why not?” He was on the brink of falling apart.

     “The new Princess…” He couldn’t let his son know of the horrors that now enslaved all of Equestria. But he couldn’t just up and lie to him either. “She needs all the Canterlot guards to live in the castle and protect her all day every day.”

     “Can’t-Can’t I come live with you in the castle?” Thunder sniffled. It was obvious he was trying his best to stay tough like his father.

     He knew Fluttershy would never allow it but he took this into consideration. “I’ll ask her majesty if you can, okay bud?” He wiped away a tear from his small face.

     He took in two heaves of breath then nodded. “Okay, daddy.”

     “Now listen, I don’t have much longer to chat and hangout. But I want you to make me a promise. Can you do that?” Thunder nodded. “I want you to behave and take care of your grandparents. I want you to say goodnight to Mommy in Heaven when you go to bed. And always remember that Daddy loves you more than anything in this world. You promise to do those three things?”

     Thunder wrapped his tiny arms around Sky and closed his eyes tightly. “I promise. I love you!”

     Sky held onto his son tightly, his heart shattering into a million pieces when he knew what he must do next. He let go of Thunder and looked at his parents who instinctively walked closer to him. They both hugged him with tears staining his mother’s face.

     “You don’t need to explain anything to us. We understand exactly what’s happened. And no, Thunder doesn’t know what dark times we are in.” Cloud Shaper explained in a whisper.

     “Thank you.” He whispered back. He took in a deep breath then exhaled slowly, “whelp, I best be on my way back to Canterlot. I love you guys.” They said their final goodbyes and parted ways, Sky Soarer went on his way finally allowing the tears come at their leisure.

     The front door to the shop swung open and in stepped Sky. Pinkie Pie and Night Wind were stationed in a nearby booth still enjoying the sweet treats. Pinkie waved him over eagerly and patted the seat next to her.

     “So, how’d it go?” Asked the curious pink mare.

     “Very… overwhelming with some other emotions here and there.” He replied shortly. He didn’t really want to discuss in full detail how his private meeting with his family panned out.

     Pinkie picked up on this and didn’t pry further. Both their attentions were now on Night Wind after he had cleared his throat in an unusually loud manner. “What is it?” She asked him.

     “If you don’t mind, I’d like to have my turn now at seeing my family. I do not wish to make her highness suspicious at our long task.” He explained flatly.

     “Of course!” Pinkie replied in a chipper voice. “And while you’re at it Sky Soarer and I can go find Amy.”

     “Sounds good to me.” Added Sky.

     Night got off his chair and exited the shop. Pinkie focused all of her attention on Sky and held out one of the extra cupcakes to him. “Cupcake?”

     He smiled at the sweet treat and took it with gratitude. While enjoying it and helping himself to the remaining three, Pinkie was currently making her way back over to the display counter. She moved aside a peppermint-patterned rug that secretly concealed a hidden trapdoor. She opened it up and disappeared inside it only for a moment before reappearing with a ridiculous amount of papers that formed into a stack two ponies high. Little colored tabs poked out of the side a few inches apart from one another. She had to stand on a stool to see the papers at the very top of the pile, reading off names quietly until she came across one that seemed to fit the bill. “Amethyst Marie!” She blurted out in excitement, nearly falling off the stool. She rebalanced herself and read the file quickly. “Goes by the nickname Amy. She is a snow-white earth pony with Amethyst colored eyes, black rectangular seeing glasses, black star cutie mark, skunk striped hair, loves blueberry muffins, and she lives next door to the Ponyville Clinic where she works as a fulltime nurse.” She took in a very long and much needed breath of air after being completely winded from that long read then took a long hard look at the picture of the pony. “Okay, yeah. I have seen her before. Her name just slips my mind all the time.”

     Sky swallowed down the last of the cupcakes before speaking. “Alright. Shall we go find her?”

     Pinkie nodded while she took the stack of papers back down into what was presumed to be the basement of the shop. She resurfaced and replaced the rug over the trapdoor.

     Night walked up to his old front porch and wasted no time knocking on the door. A minute went by without an answer. His heart sank a bit and he tried one last attempt at knocking. Still no answer after another minute, he sighed and turned around to face the small town of Cloudsdale. “There’s still one more place I can check.” He muttered to his self. He trotted on down the road making his way to the town’s park. Butterflies were fluttering inside his stomach and tickled his heart once he saw the two most important mares in his life. They were having a picnic in the center of the park near the kids’ playground.

     The young mare looked up and spotted him, her large pink eyes sparkled with delight. He placed one of his forefeathers against his lips to tell her to stay quiet and then pointed to her light pink mother with a sly smirk. The young filly giggled silently and went on eating like nothing was out of the ordinary. Night crept up on her quietly and placed his hooves over her eyes rendering her temporarily blind, this motion made her jump with a start.

     “Guess who?” He whispered in her ear with a buttery coo.

     His voice alone sent waves of chills down her spine, butterflies of her own taking flight in her stomach. She ripped his hooves off her eyes with great force that even startled him and turned to face him with wide eyes, her body was very pale and her expression made it seem like she had just seen a ghost. “Night?!” She placed her right front hoof on his chest feeling the soft warm fur and steady heartbeat reassured her that he was really real and really there. She pulled him into her arms, locking them behind his neck, and kissed him deeply. It was hard for her to contain her rampant emotions. After two full minutes she broke the kiss and let go of him. “Where have you been?”

     Windy was getting ready to run up and hug her father when another voice shattered the happy reunion.

     “Where he’s supposed to be right now!” Roared a stern and all too familiar voice from behind them. The voice made Night’s blood run colder than dry ice. He slowly turned to face the gruling music. Princess Slaughter Shy was standing only a couple feet away.

     How did nopony notice her coming up on them? Or did she just pop up here out of thin air? No matter, he was still fucked and he knew this wasn’t going to end well. Especially seeing that deadly glare her turquoise eyes were throwing at him. Night gulped and stood up straight, motioning for his family to get behind him.

     Fluttershy snarled at him with pure disgust showing through her facial expression. “Did I give you permission to visit your bastard little family?” Her negative comment made Star Wisher scowl. Fluttershy picked up on that and gave a taunting smile. “Who the fuck gave you permission to visit your pathetic family?”

     “Don’t curse in front of my daughter.” Night grumbled lowly.

     “What was that?” She growled and lit up her horn, its magenta magic swirled around his neck and began to choke the air out of him while pulling his body closer to her.

     “Daddy!” Cried out Windy Whisp. She tried to race toward him but her mother held her back. “NO! Please, don’t’ hurt him!”

     Fluttershy ignored the small blank flank’s pathetic pleads and continued to strangle him with the magic. Night desperately clawed at the transparent magic but obviously no matter how hard he tried he would never be able to latch on to it. His hind hooves scraped against the cloudy ground as he struggled more and more to breathe, sparkling white and black dots speckled his vision. He managed to only briefly look into Fluttershy’s unforgiving eyes as she snuffed the life out of him.

     Star pulled Windy into her body and made her close her eyes and burry her face in her side, she didn’t want her to have to face anymore of the horrors. But Windy reopened her left eye and continued to watch, she couldn’t keep herself from witnessing the horrors. Her small body trembled and her stomach churned sickly, the tears running down her face felt like a bad rainstorm.

     Night’s eyes slowly rolled into the back of his head and his body movements came to a stop. It was dead silent with only the sounds of Windy and Star’s sobs breaking the forboding silence. Fluttershy’s eyes went back to their normal state and the magic surrounding her horn and Night’s throat disappeared. His lifeless body flopped to the ground, Windy’s hopeful eyes stared it down, she felt if she stared hard enough and hoped hard enough then he would get up and come back to her. Unfortunately that never happened. She tore out of her mother’s grip and bound toward him, her heart froze in terror when seeing his partially open eyes and agaped mouth.

     “Daddy?” Whimpered the small Pegasus.      

     “Save your sorrow, pathetic little filly.” Snapped Fluttershy. “He’s dead and he’s not coming back.” Her last words cut off abruptly as something in the distance caught her eye. A familiar cyan coated rainbow mane dawning Pegasus. She was accompanied by a yellow and rainbow patterned stallion and what was presumed to be their children. They were walking further down the sidewalk that ran through the park. Fluttershy shook her head visciously and rubbed her eyes then looking back at the rainbow family that was still there and still walking. ‘There’s no way… I killed you!’ She screamed at the cyan pony in her mind.    

     The yellow Pegasus met her gaze, he appeared to be shook upon seeing her but then his facial expression turned to absolute hatred. He leaned into Rainbow Dash and whispered in her ear, whatever he said to her made he stop. Rainbow Lightning back stepped and hurried his children in front of their mother. He took a small magenta colored Pegasus baby from the stroller the young teen yellow mare was pushing and placed her on his back. The family quickly disappeared out of view when they went behind a cloud mound.

     Fluttershy ran after them, leaving the distraught Windy and Star behind to grieve and scream for help. She raced around the corner nearly slipping and looked back and forth in search for the rainbow family. They were nowhere to be seen. She screamed in frustration, “UGH! How are you still alive!?” Nearby ponies stopped and stared at her anxiously. She glared back at them that made them hurry and vacate the area. She continued to mutter to herself angrily. “I fucking killed you. I watched you die! How the fuck are you alive and walking?!” Being unable to catch them furthered her rage, she kicked at the cloud mounds effortlessely but it caused little to no damage to their structure, her hind legs just slipped right through them. She teleported her self to Ponyville and popped up right in front of Sugar Cube Corner. She just stared at the building seeing none of the lights were on had her come to the conclusion that nopony was home. “Rrrgh..! PINKIE PIE! Show yourself right now!” She demanded at the top of her voice.

     A few blocks down Sky and Pinkie froze to the ground like they’d been stuck in quick-dry cement. The power behind her voice in the distance made the bones in her body rattle. In unison their heads turned in the direction of where her voice came from. It took all their inner strength to get their hooves to pick up and carry them to face the harsh music. It didn’t take long for the three ponies to catch up. Fluttershy was racing down the road like a speeding train and for a moment they feared she might actually collide with them if she didn’t slow down soon. Would she even slow down? Would she go as far a just ramming into them with her body? Fortunately for them she did slow down when getting closer to them but what she did next shocked them both. When she came to a halt she lifted up her left hoof and slammed it against Sky’s jaw. Pinkie and him both feared it may be broken, cautiously he moved his jaw to see if it was in fact broken. Thank Celestia it wasn’t, it was probably just dislocated. Pinkie prepared herself for a similar fate that never came she was just met with a disappointed glare. She gulped feverishly and quietly awaited a verbal insult instead that would no doubt ensue.

     “What in the fuck is taking you so long to come back to the castle?” She hissed demanding an immediate explanation.

     “It-It’s just taking a while to find Amy’s house, that’s all.” Pinkie said exaggerating the truth just a bit. She couldn’t tell Fluttershy about the guards’ trips they’d both be killed. Her blood grew cold when she realized Night still hadn’t returned, she had a really bad feeling all of a sudden.

     A low growl expelled from deep within Fluttershy’s throat. Her angry gaze towards Pinkie Pie became more sinister by the minute. She started walking closer to her that made Pinkie’s ears drop and her hooves carried her backwards slightly. Fear enslaved her racing heart. Her life was beginning to flash before her eyes. The majority of it consists of her baking over a million different sweets.

     “Like hell you are.” Fluttershy spat as she continued to walk closer. “I know it was you who gave the two bafoons the bright idea to see their pathetic families!” She giggled a bit and stopped. “Thanks to your idea and them going along with it they both have and will suffer the maximum punishment.”

     “Have?” Pinkie questioned with a dry voice full of disbelief.

     “Wonder why poor ol’ Night Wind hasn’t shown up yet?” She replied in an eerie singsong way.

     Sky lowered his ears and swallowed hard. “Is he..?”

     Princess Slaughter Shy nodded firmly, “and you’re next!” Her horn lit up and her sword materialized next to her. She lined it up with his neck and prepared to swing.

     “No! Please don’t do this!” Cried Pinkie. “He didn’t go see his family!” She blurted out in an attempt to save him. This comment made both their heads turn to her with looks of astonishment.

     “Sh-She’s right.” He stated with a trembling voice.

     Fluttershy stared deep into his eyes with her signature stare, the one that even made the animals stop and give her their full attention. Her hateful eyes bounced back and forth between his looking for any ounce of a lie. Her eyes narrowed more and she tucked her sword under her right wing. “Fine. Whatever, you win. But you Pinkie Pie, you will be condemned to a whole week of no food, your only source of sustanacnce will be one glass of room temperature water per day.”

     Pinkie’s head dipped and she stared at her light pink hooves scraping the ground. “Yes’m.”

     “Now go on and find Amy before I lose my patience on both of you. But to make sure you don’t slack off again I will be accompanying you.” Fluttershy informed while stomping her hind hoof to get them going.

     Pinkie was the one tasked to knock on the front door to Amy’s home, it didn’t take long for her to answer the door.

[dontheevilbassman]

The Greatest Loss

     It was around 11 o’clock in the morning and the sand colored earth pony, Chief Vines, was sitting behind his desk, mending a net. “Think I’ll do the curry cart fer lunch.” The pony mused to himself as he absentmindedly scratched the mark on his flank, a set of dark green vines wrapped around a bright silver badge. The officer set the net down on his desk and pulled a silver case from his police uniform’s breast pocket. After pulling a dark red carrot from it and putting the spicy vegetable in his lips, he placed the case back in his pocket and looked towards the door to his office. Vines sighed and ran his hoof through his short dark brown mane.

     The police chief kicked a lever under his desk causing the office door to open a split second before a dark green pegasus in a police uniform flew into it. Vines tossed one end of the net onto a hook in the ceiling and threw the other end of it towards the pegasus, catching the officer before he could run into anything. “Kale! What in BLAZES is tha need for-”

     “OFFICER STAR JUS’ RAN INTO TOWN WITH AN INJURED PONY ON ‘ER BACK!” Officer Kale cried out, cutting off the chief. “BOTH COVERED IN BLOOD!!”

     Vines’ heart sank like a stone.

     “Where?” demanded Vines as he not so gently started to pull the pegasus out of the net.

     “Our Lady a’ the Sun!” Kale pulled his wing out of the net, loosing a feather in the process.

     “Not where she’s goin’,” the chief growled. “Where. Did. It. Happen?”

     “Uh,” stammered the green pony, “that wasn’t in the report.”

     “The recently discovered cavern near Crystal Falls.” A light grey coated unicorn stated as he entered Vines’ office. “Shadow mentioned that she was going with her cousin to explore it.” He pushed his copper glasses back up on his nose with a hoof. “The airship is ready to go, I assume that you are wanting to go to the probable scene?”

     “Right,” Vines replied, putting his police cap on. “Need ta get there fast.” He turned to Kale, “I want two officers sent ta Our Lady o’ tha Sun and keep an eye on Officer Star, but do NOT interrogate!”

     “Yes sir!”

     “LIEUTENANT THUNDER GUST!” The chief shouted over the noise of the police station causing instant silence.

     A dark blue coated pegasus hopped up from a desk. “Sir?” he called out in the silence.

     “Get ta tha district attorney’s office and let ‘em know what’s goin’ on!”

     “Head off rumors an’ speculation, chief?” Thunder Gust asked, putting on his police vest.

     “Exactly!” Vines replied, following the grey pony towards the exit. “News’s gonna travel fast.”

     “Then I’m gone!” The pegasus stallion bolted out a window, scattering papers from a few desks.

     “What do you think transpired?” The unicorn asked the chief, opening the door to the street.

     “I don’t wanna guess, Chisholm.” The police chief stepped out the door. “But this feeling in my gut.” He sighed, “says somethin’ bad.”

-------------------------------------

     “Say ah,” said a light green pegasus mare with a braided lavender mane as she pulled a tongue depressor from her white doctor’s coat.

     The little blue unicorn filly sitting on the exam table sniffled and opened her mouth, “Aaaaah.” A light red, blue maned unicorn mare stood nearby stroking the little one’s back.

     The pegasus pressed the little filly’s tongue down and peered in with a flashlight. “Looks like you’ve got yourself a bit of a cold, but it’s not the flu.” The doctor said as she turned off the light and tossed the depressor in the nearby trash.

     “Oh, thank goodness.” The red mare sighed.

     “Okay, Mrs. Lightmane. Here’s a prescription for some cough syrup and something to take care of the stuffy nose. She should start feeling better soon.” The pegasus turned and gave the mother a couple pieces of paper. “And also, a note for school. Skylight should stay home for the next 2 or 3 days to get better.” She ruffled the filly’s light red mane, passing a small sucker to the girl. “And you know the drill, plenty of fluids, rest, yada, yada.”

     The unicorn nodded with a chuckle and gathered her little one up in a blanket. “Thank you, doctor.” She cradled the sick filly as she left the room. “Let’s get you home, sweetie.”

     The pegasus waved as the pair left the exam room. She turned to the elder light brown unicorn that was sitting in the corner who smiled warmly at the mare. “Yada, yada?” he asked, tilting his head.

     “Well, it’s said so often it feels like a formality now.”

     The stallion pondered for a moment. “Well, Dart, every doctor has their own style,” he nodded in a sage like motion. “And, I like yada, yada.”

     “Thank you, Dr. Amber.” Dart stated as she changed the paper on the examination table. “I’m glad you’re my attending physician. I was surprised anypony would take me after I snapped at Director Faux.”

     “Eh, you were right.” Dr. Amber said, making a note on a clipboard. “And the good director wasn’t going to listen.”

     The mare chuckled, “I’m lucky that I didn’t get kicked out for-“ she started to say but was cut off as a dark grey earth pony mare dressed in scrubs entered the room. When Dart saw the nurse’s eyes, she knew something was wrong.

     “Doctor Silverhoof, your sister,” the nurse paused for a moment and collected herself. Dr. Amber was already on his hooves and moving over towards the young doctor. “Your sister… Shadow Star…” Dart’s eyes went wide as the nurse tried to continue. “Something happened, Jasper’s wing was…. And Shadow…”

     “Silver Ash, where are they?” Dr Amber asked softly, moving to the nurse and putting a hoof around her.

     “Emergency,” came the reply.

     A rush of air was the only thing that was left behind as Dart flew out the window and dove for the entrance to the Emergency room.

     “Room E25!” The nurse at the triage station called out as the mare flew into the lobby.

     Dart continued quickly, her mane scraping the ceiling as she flew. “THANK YOU!” She called back, turning down a hallway.

     “No flying in the Halls!” yelled an ivory colored earth pony doctor as the pegasus flew by him.

     “Family Emergency!”

     “Oh, okay then!” was the stallion’s reply, though the mare was long gone.

     Dart landed with a skid a bit away from room E25. Quickly, she made her way in, bumping into a yellow unicorn mare wearing blue scrubs as she passed the dividing curtain. “Dandelion, what’s going on?”

     The nurse gestured to a large light grey earth pony stallion nearby. “Thistle and I are trying to assist Doctor Ginseng.”

     “It’s not going well.” Thistle chimed in nodding towards a pink pegasus stallion with a short black mane that was backing slowly away from a deep purple mare. The mare sat on the floor, in front of the examination table, with unfocused eyes. She was covered in blood with her aqua mane horribly matted.

     “They hurt her….” the mare spoke softly as she looked down towards the floor.

     “Shadow?” Dart called to the blood covered mare.

     Dr. Ginseng looked to Dart when she spoke. “Are you here to take over?” He asked, sounding very hopeful.

     Dart shook her head as she ran to Shadow. “I can’t,” Putting her arms around Shadow. “She’s my sister!”

     Shadow hooked her sister’s arms and quickly stood. Dart shifted to resist the throw, but Shadow paused, looking at the green pegasus. “Dart?” Her eyes seemed to focus a bit and she settled back down onto the floor.

     “I’m here. I’m here.” Dart held onto the purple mare tightly.

     “They hurt her,” whispered Shadow.

     “What?” The doctor leaned back, looking at her sister. “Who hurt who?”

     “They hurt her,” Shadow’s eyes seemed far away.

     Dart ran a hoof over the mare’s matted mane. “What’s wrong?”

     “They hurt her…” the voice was barely a whisper.

     The green pegasus looked to Dr. Ginseng and the nurses with a concerned expression.

     The doctor blinked, “Shadow carried a pegasus in that was missing a wing.” He thought for a moment. “Jasper, I think was her name, and she was rushed into surgery and Shadow was brought in here, but we haven’t been able to get her triaged or anything.” He shook his head.

     “Haven’t been able to approach her at all,” stated Thistle. “Every time we started to get close,” He shrugged. “She would tense up, like she was getting ready to fight us.”

     “They hurt her…” Shadow looked down towards the floor, tears dropping to the ground.

     “That’s the only thing she’s been saying.”

     “I believe that a delicate hoof is needed,” Dr. Amber stated, walking into the room, followed by a small light orange earth pony mare in blue nurses’ scrubs. “We’ll take it from here, everyone.”

     “Thank you!” Dr. Ginseng replied with relief clearly in his voice. He turned and quickly exited the room.

     “I think us being in the room isn’t helping.” Thistle said, pulling Dandelion with him. “Good luck!” The two nurses left the room, pulling the dividing curtain back closed.

     “They hurt her…”

-------------------------------------

     The police air-ship arrived at the forest location and the investigators began to disembark. Chief Vines and Chisholm were the first to walk into the campsite at the mouth of the cavern. As they entered and took in the gruesome sight, Vines shook his head.

     “This is one o’ those times that I don’t like being right, Chisholm.” He said, putting a fire carrot in his mouth.

     “Understandable,” The light gray unicorn replied. “Haven’t seen anything like this in a long,” he looked up into a nearby tree, “Long time.”

     “Sir,” A light tan unicorn said as he entered into the campsite carrying a case, “Where do you want - BY CELESTIA!!” His eyes went wide as he took in the area. “I’m gonna, gonna…” the stallion said while turning green.

     “Outside the crime scene, please.” Chisholm calmly called to the unicorn investigator who turned and ran behind a tree. “If you have to get sick, do it away from the area.” He looked at the other investigators as they entered the camp. “I realize it’s pretty bad, but we have a job to do.”

     Vines watched as the investigators started to spread out around the campsite and Chisholm moved towards the entrance to the cavern, carrying a forensic kit. Several more of the ponies had a hard time processing the scene, having to run to the edge of the area to be sick.  

     “CHIEF!” called out a dark brown pegasus from the center of the campsite. Vines trotted over to the investigator and was joined by Chisholm. “This one’s breathing!”

     The police chief pulled a fire carrot from a silver case as he looked down. “Looks like we got a witness.”

--------------------------------------

     “WHERE’S MY BABY?” shouted a dark green pegasus mare as she galloped into the emergency room, a couple of rollers in her lavender mane. Several pegasus ponies followed close behind. “WHERE IS SHE?”

     A yellow unicorn looked up from her paperwork as the mare stopped at the reception desk. “Umm…. Who are you looking for?” she asked.

     “My little filly!” The pegasus mare cried.

     “We are looking for Shadow Star and Jasper Silverhoof,” stated a silver coated pegasus as he stepped up next to the green mare, placing a hoof on her shoulder.

     “And you are?”

     “Her mother!”

     “We are Shadow Star’s parents,” the stallion answered. “And Jasper’s aunt and uncle.” He pointed back to the other pegasus ponies that had arrived. “These are her cousins.”

     “Jasper is in surgery,” An ivory coated earth pony stated as he stepped up next to the group.

     “SURGERY?!?” The mother shouted, whirling on the yellow maned doctor, a roller landing on the receptionist’s papers.

     “Her right wing had been severed,” stated the doctor looking at a paper on the clipboard he had picked up. “So, she is in surgery for that.”

     With wide eyes, the mare covered her mouth with her hoof, “Sweet Celestia!” Anger quickly took hold of the her and a fire flared in her eyes. She leaned towards the doctor, reaching out to catch hold of his coat. “Who Hurt Her?” Her voice menacing.

     The silver coated stallion caught the mare’s hoof before she grabbed the doctor. “Calm yourself, Anmitsu,” he said gently. The mare looked at the silver pegasus and dropped her hoof. Turning to the ivory pony, the stallion continued. “My apologies, doctor. I am Taneuma Silverhoof, and this is my wife,” He gestured to the green mare. “Anmitsu Silverhoof.”

     “I’m sorry,” Anmitsu sighed. “I get a little protective of my family.”

     The doctor smiled warmly, “I understand.” He tucked the clipboard under an arm and held a hoof out. “I’m Sundrop, the doctor in charge of the emergency room today.” Taneuma shook the offered hoof followed by Anmitsu doing the same. “Follow me, I’ll take you to where Shadow is.” He paused and looked back at the other ponies. “I’m afraid that only you two will be able to come back with me. The others will have to wait out here. Not enough room.”

     “Kids,” Anmitsu called to the others, “Some of you wait here and couple of you head to the school just in case Jade and Lighting go there.” The group nodded and began to discuss who would stay and who would go.

     Sundrop led the ponies down a hallway and to room E25. As they approached, the curtain was pulled back and Dart emerged, gently guiding Shadow into the hall.

     Anmitsu gasped when she saw the state that her daughter was in. “GIRLS!” The dark green mare cried as she rushed up to the pair. Shadow’s head snapped around, her body starting to shift into a defensive stance. Anmitsu didn’t slow down as she saw the reaction, she just threw her arms and wings around the purple pony.

     “Momma?” whispered Shadow as she dropped the defensive posture.

     “Momma’s here, baby,” the dark green pegasus tightened her embrace. “What happened to you?” She inquired.

     “They hurt her…”

     Taneuma placed a hoof on Shadows back. He looked to Dart, concern evident on his face. “What happened?”

     “I don’t know, poppa.” Dart replied, tears in her eyes. “That’s all she’s been saying.” She wiped at her eyes. “We have to get her cleaned up to see if she’s hurt.”

     “I thought you couldn’t treat family.”

     “She can’t,” Dr. Amber stated as he stepped up, making sure to stay back from the purple mare. “Due to the nature of this situation and state of my patient, Dr. Dart is assisting myself and Marigold.” He nodded to the small light orange mare that was next to him. “I’m Amber, Dart’s mentor.”

     “A pleasure, Dr Amber.” Taneuma nodded to the doctor. “Dart speaks very highly of you. I’m Taneuma and this is Anmitsu.”

     “I hope to live up to that.” Dr Amber pointed down the hall. “But for now, we need to get to the showers and get Shadow cleaned up so I can see the extent of her injuries.”

     “What about Jasper?” asked the silver stallion as the group began moving in the direction the doctor indicated. “We heard she was in surgery.”

     Dr. Amber nodded, “She’s in the very capable hooves of Dr. Osso and his team.”

     “We sent word to her parents in Canterlot, they should be here by tomorrow. Any idea on what happened?” Taneuma sounded hopeful.

     Amber shook his head, “Not much, I’m afraid. We know that they were attacked, and Jasper’s wing had been severed. She had lost a lot of blood, and somehow Shadow managed to carry her here while keeping a lot of pressure on the wound.”

     “Why hasn’t she been cleaned up yet?” Anmitsu asked, continuing to help keep the purple mare moving.

     “No pony could get close until I got there, Momma.” Dart said, keeping a hoof on Shadow’s shoulder. The group entered an exam room with a large attached bathroom.

     As they entered, Anmitsu stroked Shadow’s back and whispered, “What did they do to you?”

     “They hurt her…”

     The two pegasus mares led Shadow into the bathroom and to the large shower, sitting the purple pony under the spout. Dr Amber stepped in, “Marigold and I will be right here, tell us if you need anything.”

     Dart nodded. “I’ll let you know what I see,” the light green mare stated, tossing her doctors coat to Taneuma. Her mother turned on the shower, icy cold water poured out of the shower head, striking Shadow. The mare didn’t flinch or move in anyway, just continued to look down at the floor. After a moment, steam started to build as the water warmed.

     As the grime began to wash away, Shadow lifted her front hooves and stared at them, the red water flowing. She began to visibly tremble, her eyes wide, then she started to scream. Anguish and terror filled the air, her eyes riveted to her hooves, dark red washing over them and pooling beneath her.

     “ANMITSU!” Dr Amber shouted. “DON’T LET HER LOOK DOWN! MAKE HER FOCUS ON YOU!”

     The dark green pegasus put a hoof under Shadow’s chin, lifting the mare’s gaze to hers. “Honey look at me, you’re safe. Nothing can hurt you here.” She spoke softly, stroking Shadow’s mane, tears in her eyes, mixing with the spray from the shower, her heart breaking. “Momma’s here, I’ll keep you safe. Poppa and Dart are here too. Shh, shh, shh, shh.”

     “THEY HURT HER!” cried Shadow, anguish filling her voice.

     “I know. I know. You both are here. You’re safe.” Anmitsu’s voice cracked, emotion straining to break free. The mare looked at her daughter and saw her as she was, before the unicorn started dying her coat and mane. She saw Shadow as the scrawny little filly they took in, with a light lavender coat, almost pink, and a fiery red mane, resembling glowing embers. “Jasper’s going to get better. We need to get you taken care of. Shhhh.”

     Taneuma watched as his wife struggled to bring their daughter back from the nightmare that held her, the agony of seeing his daughter in pain etched upon his features. He looked to Dart as she concentrated on washing Shadow, getting her clean, checking the mare for injuries as she went. Even with the water from the shower, he could see the tears in her eyes, affected by Shadow’s cries as much as he was.

     “Momma’s got you,” whispered Anmitsu, stroking the distraught mare, looking into Shadow’s eyes, finding them to still be distant and unfocused. “Momma won’t let anything happen. Just… just please… please come back to me.” The purple mare’s cries began to get softer, becoming quiet sobs, her trembling starting to subside. “Keep looking at me, sweetie.” Momma started to gently wash her daughter’s mane, keeping her eyes locked with Shadow’s, not letting the mare lower her head. “We’re going to get you all clean.”

     Dart leaned her head against her sister’s back, wrapping her forelegs and wings around the mare. She closed her eyes and squeezed, trying to bring some comfort to Shadow before continuing to wash her.

     Time ticked by slowly as mother and daughter washed the purple unicorn, carefully keeping her eyes away from the floor and checking her for injuries. Anmitsu turned the water off, allowing Shadow’s eyes to drift back to the now clean floor. Taneuma approached with towels and began to assist his wife with getting their daughter dry.

     “I didn’t see any obvious injuries,” Dart commented to Dr Amber and Marigold as she dried herself. “Shadow isn’t in any state to tell us if anything hurts.” She closed her eyes and took a shaky breath.

     “You did good, Doctor,” Amber stated. “Admirable work so far. I know this is difficult, but you are doing very well.”

     “Thank you.”

     “When we get to the room, we’ll have to run an IV.” The doctor gave a nod to Marigold who slipped out of the room. “Marigold will get everything set up for us. We’re heading to 3N46.”

     Dart tilted her head, “That’s the intensive care wing… Oh, that’s where Jasper’s going to be taken after the surgery!”

     Dr. Amber gave the young doctor a smile, “You are correct.” He looked past Dart, at Taneuma and Anmitsu as they had started to braid Shadow’s wild mane. The parents softly sang a lullaby to the mare as they worked. “Once they’re done, we’ll head up.” He looked back to Dart, “Will you be able to run an IV?”

     “I can,” Dart nodded. “I don’t think… she’ll even notice.” The mare’s voice cracked a bit as she spoke.

     Dr. Amber gave her a pat on the shoulder, “We’ll get her through this.”

     The young pegasus looked at the older doctor, “Do you know what’s wrong?”

     “I don’t know yet if anything is physically wrong.” Amber spoke softly, running a hoof through his short, grey mane. “But her mind has been injured and her heart shattered. That’s what I think.” He stood up. “These types of injuries take a long time to diagnose and even longer to heal.”

     “We’re ready.” Taneuma said as he guided Shadow over with Anmitsu on the other side of the mare.

     “Let’s get to the room,” Dr. Amber gestured for everypony to follow him as he turned an began to walk to the elevator.

-----------------------

     Darkness greeted the griffin as he opened his eyes, only a small sliver of light came from under the door. His chest ached along with his right hind leg and left wing, keeping him from wanting to move too much. He lifted his right foreleg and found a set of cuffs locking him to the bed.

     “Oh good, yer awake,” said a voice coming from the darkness, followed by the soft click of a lamp. Across the room a sand colored pony in a police uniform stood in the lamp light. “I got some questions for ya.”

     “We were attacked!” the griffin exclaimed. “We were just there to… uh…,” He looked around nervously as his mind raced. “FISH! Yeah! We were fishin’!”

     “Really?” The officer calmly asked, pulling a carrot from a silver case. “Fishin’ without tha gear?”

     “Uhh…. yes?”

     “How ‘bout this,” the pony said, as he pulled a large roasting match from a vest pocket. “I’m Sandy Vines, chief of tha Vanhoover police force.” Vines lit the match and started to run it under the carrot he held. “An’ I wanna know why ya ripped off a pegasus’s wing and assaulted one o’ my officers.”

     “Well, see…. Uhm,” The griffon stammered, sweat forming on his brow. His eyes met the police chief’s and he went completely still.

     “Let’s start with yer name.”

     “Graft.”

     “Well, Graft,” Vines spoke calmly, twirling the carrot slowly over the flame of the roasting match, his eyes never leaving the griffon’s. “Tha truth is gonna help ya a lot more than lyin’.”

     Graft nodded and swallowed hard, something about this pony made him not want to make the chief mad. “Okay, but um… what… um… happened to me? Why do I ache so much?”

     “If it weren’t fer tha pain killers, that ache would be a whole lot worse,” the police chief blew out his roaster match. “Ya got a broken leg and dislocated wing, along with a couple of holes in yer chest, courtesy of a minin’ pick.” He told the griffon, wafting the roasted fire carrot in the air a few times.

     “Ow.”

     “Yeah, ow.” Vines pulled a chair over and sat down at the foot of Graft’s bed. “Now, tell me everythin’ that happened.” Said the chief, placing the roast vegetable in his lips, with his eyes riveted on the injured Graft.

     The griffon closed his eyes for a moment, when he opened them again Graft looked straight at the officer and spoke softly. “Alright, this is what we did.”

---------------

     The sun was already low in the sky when Jasper was brought into the room. Dart was sitting on a bed with Shadow next to her, a wing wrapped carefully around the purple unicorn as to not disturb the IV in Shadow’s foreleg. Taneuma turned in his seat next to the window as Jasper was rolled in. Shadow lifted her head and watched as her cousin was being brought into the room.

     Anmitsu followed the medical ponies, carrying a couple small bags of chips. She looked to the tan unicorn who seemed to be in charge, “Can you tell us how she is?”

     “Of course!” the stallion replied. “I’m Dr. Osso, I was the one who did Jasper’s surgery.” He gave a nod to the medical technicians as they finished settling the pale red pegasus and exited the room. “Even though she had lost a lot of blood, Jasper pulled through with flying colors!” The doctor paused, “I should have phrased that differently.” He gave an awkward laugh. “Anyway. Due to the damage, I was unable to reattach her wing. The bone was just slivers.”

     Taneuma stepped up next to his wife and put a hoof around her. “We didn’t know that her wing was brought in with her.”

     Osso nodded, “Oh it was, but whatever happened that severed it, twisted it around,” the surgeon started demonstrating with his hooves. “And pulled at the same time, causing the bone to just basically,” Anmitsu covered her mouth with her hoof as the doctor continued, her eyes going wide. “explode! I figure that at least an inch of bone was missing from what was broumphmrphe!” A light orange hoof slammed over the unicorn’s mouth, stopping him mid ramble.

     “Love,” Marigold said softly to the unicorn, “You really need ease up on your rambling.” She smiled at Taneuma and Anmitsu, “My apologies for my husband’s rambling.” She looked back to Osso, “Are you going to give them an update and not a dissertation?” The doctor nodded and the little orange nurse removed her hoof from Osso’s mouth.

     Osso gave the pair an embarrassed smile, “Sorry about that. I just ramble sometimes.” He stopped and looked at Anmitsu, “Why do you have a roller in your mane?”

     “It’s still in there?” the mare reached a hoof back and pulled the remaining roller out, “My niece was practicing her mane therapy training. She was curling my mane when we got the news.”

     “I can completely sympathize,” Marigold commented.

     “Okay, so the update on Jasper,” Osso nodded as he spoke. “Her wing can’t be repaired, she lost a lot of blood, and she has some bruising. So, she should recover completely.” He blinked, “Um, other than missing a wing.”

     “The engineering students at the University of Vanhoover have already been contacted to see if they can fashion a prosthetic wing,” Dr. Amber stated as he stepped into the room. “I took the liberty to get that started.”

     Taneuma gave a bow to Dr. Amber, “Thank you, Doctor. I’m sure Jasper and her parents will be appreciative.”

     “OH!” exclaimed Dr. Osso. “You aren’t her parents! I probably shouldn’t have told you all that!”

     “We’re her aunt and uncle,” Anmitsu told the surgeon. “We have authorization to take care of Jasper if anything like this happens.”

     “That is very smart!” Osso commented, gesturing with his hoof. “You would be surprised how many ponies don’t think of doing that! It really can complicate thinmphfs.” Once again, Marigold silenced the unicorn’s rambling with her hoof.

     “You have to go check on your other patients now.” Marigold said to her husband. She pulled her hoof back and released the stallion.

     “I’ll be back in the morning to check on her.” Osso called as he trotted out of the room.

     “Thank you, doctor!” Taneuma called after the surgeon.

     “One of the best surgeons in Equestria,” said Dr. Amber. “But he rambles and will talk your ears off if given a sliver of a chance.”

     Marigold gave a chuckle, “But that’s what I love about him.”

     “Seems like a very nice pony,” Anmitsu said, “A caring soul.”

     “He is.”

     Dr Amber moved towards where Shadow was still sitting with Dart, her eyes still on the unconscious Jasper. “Let’s see how our patient is doing.” As the doctor approached, Shadow shifted causing Dart to wrap her front hooves around the mare and squeeze tighter with her wing.

     “It’s okay, Shadow,” Dart spoke softly to the purple unicorn, “It’s just Dr Amber, he needs to check you.” Shadow’s head turned slowly towards the doctor, causing him to stop moving forward.

     “Dart, I will need you to be my eyes again,” Amber said, taking a step back. “I’m not sure she’s back yet.”

     “Okay.”

     Dart picked up a small light from the table next to the bed and shined it in Shadow’s eyes. “Her pupils slowly respond, but she still doesn’t try to look away from the light.”

     “So, no change.” Amber marked some notes on a clipboard. “Has she said anything or done anything different?”

     “Nothing other than look up when Jasper was brought in,” Dart sighed, “Even when we brought everyone else in, she didn’t move or anything.”

     “Hmmm…” The doctor made more notes on his clipboard. “We are just going to have to wait.”

     “Why are ya’ll out here?” Asked a voice carried in from the hallway.

     “We got chased out.” Was the reply. “Family only.”

     “Ah, well, good job holdin’ up the walls. Keep at it.”

     “Yes, Sir!”

     A moment later Chief Vines stepped into the room. “How’s everypony?”

     “As good as can be expected I guess.” Taneuma stepped over to the police chief. “What brings you by?”

     “I need ta talk ta Shadow.” Vines said, looking at Shadow who was staring at the floor once again.

     “She’s hasn’t been saying anything really,” said Anmitsu as she sat down on the other side of Shadow, sliding a wing and hoof around the silent mare. “I want to know what they did to her!”

     “They hurt her…”

     Vines stared at Shadow for a moment and then stepped towards her. Shadow’s head rose up and she looked at police officer, her eyes still far away, her body starting to tense. “Officer Star,” he said, waiting for a reaction, when he didn’t get one, Vines continued. “I’ve been ta tha cave.” Shadow tensed even more, but she lowered her head. She lifted her front hooves and began to stare at them. “I know what happened.”

     “They hurt her…” Shadow started to violently tremble. “They hurt her…” The mare’s voice gaining in volume. Dart and Anmitsu embraced Shadow, as if they were trying to keep the mare from shaking herself apart. “They Hurt Her…”

     Vines put a hoof over Shadow’s and knelt in front of her. “They attacked ya.” Shadow raised her gaze to meet the chief’s. “They wanted ta take ya ta Kludgetown an’ sell ya both.” Anmitsu gasped. “They had mugged a bunch o’ ponies already. Ya remember the gang we were after? That was them.” He held Shadow’s hooves in his. “They got bold an’ were gonna try ta make some bits sellin’ ponies they caught.” He leaned closer to the mare. “They were monsters.”

     “They hurt her…”

     “Yeah, they did. They were monsters,” he gave Shadow’s hooves a squeeze. “Not. You.”

     “They hurt her…”

     Vines nodded. “Yes, they hurt her… and?” he asked.

     Shadow’s trembling lessened and her eyes focused on the chiefs, a fire sparking in them, “I ended them…” her voice low and carrying a steel edge to it.

     “Yes, ya did.” Vines responded, patting Shadow on the shoulder. “Ya ended a threat not only ta Vanhoover, but ta Equestria as a whole. They were monsters, horrible monsters.”

     Shadow looked around as if this is the first time she’s seen where she was. Tears began to stream down her cheeks once again.

     “Officer Star,” Vines called, standing back up. “The good doctor will give ya something ta help ya rest. Right?” He looked to Dr. Amber.

     “Of course!” The doctor pulled a vial from a nearby cabinet as Marigold set out a syringe.

     “Ya got a long road ahead o’ ya, but everypony here will be there ta help ya.”

     Shadow nodded and let the doctor put the shot in her IV. With tears in her eyes, Anmitsu cradled the purple unicorn as she quickly drifted into a peaceful slumber.

     “I’m glad you knew what was wrong.” Taneuma said to the police chief. “We were at a loss of what to do.”

     “I’ve seen it before, but,” Vines shook his head. “It’s never a good thing ta have ta deal with. No pony should have ta do that.”

     “How many?”

     “Five griffons, a pegasus, and a unicorn.”

     “She took them all?” Taneuma inquired, his eyes wide.

     “Yup, left only one still breathin’.” Vines pulled a fire carrot out and stuck it in his lips. He held the silver case out for the silver pegasus.

     “Thank you,” Taneuma pulled a fire carrot for himself. “So, you’ve already questioned the one that’s alive.”

     “Yup. He’s hospitalized on another floor.” The chief looked at Anmitsu, “an’ I’m not gonna tell ya where!”

     The pegasus mare gave the officer a slight glare but continued to hold her daughter. Dart laid down on the other side of the unicorn and placed a wing over her sister.

     “I’ll leave ya ta yer family.” Vines said, shaking Taneuma’s hoof. “I’ve got paperwork ta fill out.” He started to walk out the door but paused, “The DA’s already heard everything and isn’t gonna file charges. There’ll have ta be a formal inquiry, but I already know tha outcome.” He pulled a pocket watch out and looked at it. “I got ta go meet Cymbal. Goodnight.”

     “Goodnight, Chief.” Taneuma responded. “And thank you.”

     Vines waved, and strolled out of the room, leaving the family to rest and begin to heal its injured members.