6 - I'm No Diamond

The rest of the group had left us in the clearing. The two of us could hear what sounded like fearful conversations over the other side. The gang were worried about us. It didn't feel like we'd been in there long. The result was alright, but...I should've got rid of them! I could've...I would've...if only I was more confident... Back when things were normal, people would always tell me that I had a lot going for me, that I was great, that I'd be as famous as Bill Gates. I doubted them. I couldn't make myself believe anything they said. My grades weren't top-notch, my stories were (in my opinion) terrible, I stuck out from the crowd... Well, I knew the last one was a good thing. Difference is a great thing.

Rarity at my side, I stepped out into the clearing, feeling a little worried. Questions were launched at me from every angle.

"How did it go?"

"What did they...do to you?"

"Are t-they g-g-gone yet-t?"

I took a fearful step back. "Everyone! I'll tell you on the way to wherever we're going next! Just...please, give me some time to...think!" I could tell that everyone could see the frustration on my face. They scurried back into formation. I took some deep breaths and picked up the pace.

Rainbow Dash could smell it. Something was up with Game Changer. Just one fight couldn't make a colt's mind cloudier than lemonade. And how Rarity carried herself now...she'd seen it before...or at least something similar. She trotted almost as she had following the Grand Galloping Gala, and her discovery that Prince Blueblood was a self-centred, stupid stallion. The look on her face wasn't scorn, though. It leaned towards sadness, and maybe loss. Maybe...

Well done.

Oh, Starlow! Hi. We haven't spoken much lately... Anyway, it's about time you popped into my mind. I'm just so mixed up!

It's OK, Game Changer. We all have those moments. You're not alone. Anyway, you dealt with the dogs well.

I faked a smile inside. Uh...thanks?

I know you... Starlow's tone became serious. If you don't learn to change soon, you're going to fail! You've got to learn to love yourself. You're exactly what anyone you trust says you are –

Hang on, a scowl appeared physically on my face, causing the ponies either side of me to turn and look. I heard commands for the crowd to stop amidst my thoughts. It's not as simple as that, Starlow! I can't just flick a switch and change!

You can, you've just got to find that switch.

It takes time! Just leave me, and I'll fix it!

OK... Starlow sounded a little defensive. I felt his presence leave my head, and in his place  I felt my stinging thoughts.

"What's...wrong with you!?" Angered words slipped between my teeth, deserting my mouth and mind like breaths of fire. I just couldn't think of anything at all...

Twilight Sparkle and her friends watched in pure shock as the cyan stallion deserted their presence for the dark woods beside them. Game Changer ran for all he was worth into the jet-black forest, stopping by a tree. All had been said that could be, so he just growled. He turned to buck the nearest tree, a new instinct that he'd gained since his transformation. Just as his powerful back hooves were about to launch, a voice appeared in his head. He sighed, expecting the cutie mark that had infuriated him just now, but instead the voice of Luna appeared.

"Game Changer," she spoke with an unexpected softness, "I apologise for the situation. I commend your efforts against the Diamond Dogs. Believe what I say, and what everypony else says. I will be expecting better as your adventure continues. Return to your team, and do not worry about Rarity. She is a forgiving pony, and, perhaps, as you said before, she might have another chance. She will not be scorned. But, continue to be on your guard... I must leave you now. Do not let your flaws defeat you, young colt!"

I picked myself up off the floor, feeling not invigorated, but neutral, clear of any emotion. Hopefully, that was soon to change for the better.