Dear anyone still out there

by Syntactics

Rating: mature
Tags: Cutie Mark Crusaders, Silver Spoon, Pipsqueak, Diamond Tiara, Snips, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark
Length: 10034

Diaries of schoolfoals in a town where not all is quite right, and something lurks in the misty streets.

"These may be my final words. The odds are stacked against me, and I risk losing everything. Even now the cloaked watchers approach, dragging their thin, spidery legs along the dewy grass..."

Diary entries were discovered amongst the ruins of the burned down schoolhouse. Assembled mostly in chronological order, they document what really happened to the foals of the town of Ponyville. Most believe the storm to have been a freak occurrence, but it's evident it was a culmination of many, many things.

Published 2013-10-15 03:30:03 UTC
Last updated 2013-10-15 03:30:03 UTC

All that remains

September 20
Dearest Diary,

Ms. Cheerilee gave us these delightful leather-bound diaries today, and on the first day of school!! She spoke brightly of the benefits of developing a strong writing foundation*, but something was off about her smile. It was strained and stretched too tight. Perhaps the stress from the summer?

Still, such a thoughtful gift. This may be a precursor to yet another wonderful year to come. Difficult as it is to imagine, I actually dreaded the onset* of a new school year many moons ago, back when I was a thoughtless and stubborn filly.

Anyway, I can hear the grumblings of my fellow classmates all about me, their repulsive* groans crashing through the air like some hateful thing. How simply dreadful.

Your Sweetest and Dearest,

Sweetie Belle

PS: I apologize if my hoofwriting is illegible. I'm new to the concept of wielding my pen with my magic.

* New words I learned this summer! Aren't you proud of me?

Sept. 20
Ohmygods this is soooo stupid. I can't BELIEVE we have to keep some stupid journal this year. Like Miss Cheerilee says we gotta "fasilitate our writing education" or something. Whaaaat.

Whatever I'll humor her if she likes. Look at me writing this w. my pen in my mouth. WOW.
I could be impressing RD w. my totally epic flying trix right now. She says I'm getting better. She can't teach me much anymore but that's ok.

Ugh we're probably gonna have to write some dumb "what I did this summer" essay too, like she don't already know. Soooo predictable.

Equestria's #2 flyer~ Scootaloo

septimber 20
howdy! so i'm gonna write in this here diary to improve my writing i guess?? cuz miss cheerilee says the one area in education i gotta master's writing. i nearabout failed it last year so this'll really help.

i'm bone-tired from apple-buckin with big mac so i'm stoppin here for today. them signs for rarity's boutique and the gosh-darned new protocols are really wearing me out.
—apple bloom.

September 20th
Dear Diary:

Okay, so I know I complained to everypony about how much I just hate writing in some dumb journal, but actually this is soooo exciting! Like that one romantic play where that super cute colt finds this filly's diary about how much she just love love loves him!!! And that real awkward scene where she catches him reading her diary and omggg it's positively adorable~

I wish somepony cute would find my diary. But it's like all the colts in my class are stunted or something!! I swear there's only one colt who could sweep me off my hooves.

Yours truly,
Diamond Dazzle Tiara~
Only daughter of Filthy Rich, Esq. of Rich's Barnyard Bargains and Law Practice

Sept 20
Dear diary
I haaate writing!! Diamond Tiara and I think it's duuumb!!!!!

~~Okay, she stopped reading over my shoulder now. Gods I hate when she does that. We've been friends since we were fillies but lately I don't think she's that great of a friend. She's controlling and always treating me b oh fiddlesticks she's watching~~

What a stupid project. Remind me to throw it in a bonfire when I get home. Or better yet, Cheerilee's FACE hahahaha.

~~~Silver Spoon

September 21
Dearest Diary,

Ms. Cheerilee enthralled* us with myths of a mysterious, fantastic behemoth* who roams Equestria, subjugating* its victims, usually ponies, and enslaving them. Legend has it that prior to its arrival, a thick, sweeping mist seeps through the village, devouring the souls within. Many recovered scrolls and notes from victims reveal that a quiet moaning and rattling of chains can be heard as well. Spooky!!

After recess, Featherweight grinned at me. He and I have become great friends over the summer. To think how far the lanky and troubled little colt has come!!

Your Ever Dearest,

Sweetie Belle

* More new words learned as well!!

Sept. 21
Today Miss Cheerilee was ACTUALLY interesting. She told a super sweet scary story. Almost enough to rival RD's wicked tales. Everypony was nervous but I was cool w. it. NOTHING scares me.

Y'know I still think this journal's a stupid idea. Nopony's writing. They're just chatting or glaring at one another. HEY. Why isn't anypony paying attention to ME!? Featherweight used to hang around me like a buzzing FLY drawn to light. What happened to my personal photographer?

I'd go find RD if I COULD, but she's busy with auditions, trying to get into that stupid flying troupe. They aren't even GREAT. RD's too good for them.

Totally awesome yet somehow neglected~ Scootaloo

septimber 21
miss cheerilee says she's proud of me for tryin to write but could i please consider capitalizing words? i told her i don't trust capital letters. something ain't right about them. like ol granny smith says to me each night. 'young'un, don't you go trustin everything your teacher tells you! i could swear on my mama's grave that they's teaching you poisonous things these days.'

i like listenin to granny's wild tales. her voice just dips up and down like a bee spinning through the daisies. though these days she's mostly ravin about ponyville's princess, spittle flyin like melon seeds. and it gets me thinkin bout the world and how it's always changing.

anyway, i saw featherweight givin sweetie puppy eyes, and when i looked at him funny, sweetie frowned at me. something's brewing between them. could it be loooove??
—apple bloom.

September 21st
Dear Diary:

That jerk!!! Instead of coming to me, that two-faced idiot's smiling at Sweetie Belle like some hapless fool. Sweetie Belle!!!! My arch-nemesis!!!!!!!!

Anyway, today was basically boooring and a complete waste of my time. Ms. Cheerilee told some stupid story and then blabbed on about the new policies of our local princess. Okay, that was interesting. I'd like to be a princess, commanding the stars and having fools bow down to everything I say. I'd look good in pink~

Yesterday, I complained to Daddy about those filthy, cloaked vagrants dirtying up Ponyville. They're sooo creepy. They don't even move like normal ponies do. He said he'd speak to somepony about removing them.

Oh perfect. Now Snips is making goo-goo eyes at me. Better get Ms. Cheerilee to excuse me to the little filly's room for the next, like, eternity. Ugggghhhhh.

Hugs and kisses,
Diamond Dazzle Tiara~
Only daughter of Filthy Rich, Esq. of Rich's Barnyard Bargains and Law Practice

Sept 21
Dear diary
~~I hate having to cross out my true thoughts. I hate having to bury who I really am; it's killing the real me. But I'm nothing if not loyal. If I'm just persistent, I can get her to change. I know she has it in her…~~

Stupid story OMGGGGGG!!!!

~~This is so degrading.~~

~~~Silver Spoon

September 22
I am extremely concerned for my friend, for he is infatuated with a filly who will only shatter his heart and backstab him with the pieces. And yet when I try to reason with him (and I think my logic quite sound), he stares as if I'm the stupid one. Portly does not equal lack of intelligence! (I may be a "common" earth pony to bigoted elitists, but I more than surpass them in brains!)

When he began to argue, I assured him that though she may have subjectively "good looks", she is but a shallow creature. He professed not to care and was very stubborn. I'm afraid I could not convince him otherwise.

Some days I can neither stand nor understand him.

— Snips

22
Nopony ever pays me any bother. I like it that way. I'm quiet. And ponies say I'm shy. I'm okay with that.

Oh. And, hello dear diary. How are you? I am Tootsie Flute. And besides Ms Cheerilee, I'm the only one who knows that. I bet even the princess doesn't know that. Even with her many eyes.

Tootsie

23 September
I just got back from Trottingham! My uncle there tells the best stories about his days as a pirate! Plundering the seas, raking in gold and jewels and saving damsels by stabbing the bad guys. I told him I wanted to be just like him, and he smiled and ruffled my scruffy mane.

I'm a bit late in the school year, but Cheerilee says it's cool. Making up schoolwork's gonna be a pain.

Anyway, I love pirates, adventuring and stories. Writing, too. I'm writing tales about my awesome uncle! Usually I live in Trottingham with him, that's where I was born. It's this bustling city with towers and spires and castles.

I've also got a small knife for a cutie mark. Mother worries about it all the time, but I think it's cool! I bet it's cause of all my adventuring and whatnot! I'm pretty handy with a cutlass and longsword too.

Ponyville's definitely different from how I remember. It's darker out, and all the ponies look like they'd be spooked by their own shadow!
~Pipsqueak be out~

September 23
Dearest Diary,

I confess I am quite disappointed that Rarity has departed again to Canterlot for business purposes. I'm alone in her boutique, but it's fine. There's plenty to amuse me. I dress and sing to the mannequins and can try my hoof at sewing without my sister breathing down my neck.

This isn't the first of such occasions. At least she hasn't taken Apple Bloom with her this time. I would miss her bright countenance* and blazing red mane. She's such a stubborn, yet lovely dear.

You may have noticed, my dearest, that my hoofwriting has vastly improved. I owe it to the efforts of our very own princess, Twilight Sparkle!! She has taught me much about magic: how to channel its raw strength and to grasp my sparkly pens. Delicate finesse* is required. You must sweep it so.

Rarity, I am afraid, is far too busy to care for me. I miss the old her.

Where is the sister who oft* accompanied me to parks and bathed with me beneath the sun's radiance*? The one who raced with me when I could convince her to and lovingly braided my tangled mane?

Perhaps I can make a suggestion to the princess concerning such neglectful behavior and how to properly deal with it.

Your Dearest and Nostalgic*,

Sweetie Belle
PS: I will place an asterisk after new words I've learned from now on!

september 23
i got these gorgeous postcards and letters from rarity yesterday! had to stash them beneath my bedsheets cuz they make applejack all ornery.

maybe she's jealous?? i'm only helping rarity with the artsy stuff, like decoratin posters with lace and ribbons. and i get to travel places with her too!

incindiently, miss cheerilee says i ain't spelling words rightly. and that i oughtn't say ain't. oh shoot. just did, didn't i? even though granny shakes her grizzled head at uppity ponies what insist on proper grammer, i'll try for miss cheerilee's sake. poor thing was shakin like a crumpled leaf barely hangin on to its stumpy ol branch when she asked me. she looked pale as curdled milk.

reminds me of applejack lately. she's been skulkin around the farm all pasty-faced and anxious and knocking them metal critters out, mumblin about how she weren't gonna stand for havin no unnatural metal vermin spyin on the family.

don't she know that's illegal? can't tamper with royalty-owned property.
—apple bloom.

Sept. 23
School's suuuch a drag. I'd waaay rather hang w. RD. She's cool. And I've been flying smoother ever since that clingy photographer basically abandoned me. I guess he WAS a distraction.

I think Sweetie and AB have forgotten me. We haven't chatted since our ultra-mega-sleepover last year. I'll chill w. them after I get the hang of this whirly-spinny-loopy deal I'm practicing. Or I WOULD if there weren't all this freeeaky fog all of a sudden.

Seriously, has ANYPONY noticed the dumb weather we're having? Whatever, I'm not writing here for another WEEK. Ciao, losers.

Barrel-rolling out~ Scoots

September 23
The skies are smudged gray and downcast. Patchy, black clouds stain the heavens. Surely an ill omen. You can practically smell it: an insidious, unpleasant stench rolling off the sky in waves, permeating everything. The alleged stench of evil. (Or perhaps the coppery, metallic grit of the watchers?)

Snails is determined to court Diamond Tiara. I can't be a bystander to what's sure to unfold as a tragedy for all but Miss Tiara herself. She has the glint of malice in her baby blue eyes. Perhaps if I invite him over, I can subdue him before he errs. Yes. That'll work. Wish me luck. (Not that I'll need it.)

Though, I might need to clear out the various scissors and sharp instruments from my house. Snails is a danger to himself and everypony he meets even without the means to do so...

— Snips

Sept 23
Dear diary
~~I'm honestly glad the awful weather means our beach trip's cancelled. Diamond Tiara's always dragging me there but never lets me splash in the water or even catch some waves! She only wants to "gossip". What's the fun in flinging derogatory insults at everypony we know?~~

Like OMG we can't even go to the beach and gossip all day long!!!!!!!!!!

~~She never listens to me. She never cares about me.~~

I'm soooo suing the stupid weather ponies!!!!

~~I think I hate her.~~

~~~Silver Spoon

23
Why a flower? It's pretty. It's pink. And it means nothing to me. Yet there it is. On my flank. What does it mean?

Ms Cheerilee says a cutie mark indicates your destiny. Ridiculous. I'm not destined to be a flower. But why should I listen to some silly mark etched into my body? Why can't I be… more?

Enjoy the weather.

Tootsie

24-09 09:14:23
Today, Ms. Cheerilee assigned us a partners project on ancient legends. I want to ask Sweetie Belle to be my partner. She's my new friend. She's been so kind and sweet to me this past summer. And her voice melts my heart when I hear it. Funny and gorgeous—what's not to like?

And imagine the beautiful blossoms that might flower on her snowy coat.

...Oh. Diamond Tiara just came up and asked me before I could invent some excuse. I couldn't say no. Maybe next time…

Featherweight, junior photographer.

September 24th
Dear Diary:

I asked him and he said yes!!!! Omggg I can't believe it! Okay, so like he didn't actually say yes, but he didn't say no either. That basically means yes, right? Anyway who even caaares! At least it means Sweetie Belle can't take him, that conniving witch!!!

This project should be a snap. He'll do all the hard work. He's got his stupid camera strung around his neck like 24/7. He probably likes work.

Still pissed about the weather. It's gotten waaaay darker out, even in the afternoon! And I look my absolute best in direct sunlight! Now what??? I can't wear my brand new dress with all the sparkles and sequins on it without proper light.

I soooo want to complain to whomever's in charge of weather for this atrocity. But Daddy's forbidden me. He said the princess was delegating some new division of work to him and threatened to seize his business if he refused!!! Can you even believe her nerve???

XOXO,
Diamond Dazzle Tiara~
Only daughter of Filthy Rich, Esq.

September 24
Dearest Diary,

They've posted a new list of forbidden items in order to ensure our continued safety. I'm not certain if Scootaloo even qualifies to register her scooter, now that unlicensed scooters have been outlawed.

And speaking of, I feel simply awful that she'll be alone. Ms. Cheerilee stressed the limit as only two per group. I've teamed up with Apple Bloom, and everypony else has formed duos*.

But I shouldn't worry myself. I have a dreadful headache. Perhaps as a result of the increasingly complex magic Princess Twilight has been teaching me as well as a severe decline in sleep.

Each night, the skies grow ever murkier* and ominous. The wind whipping through the trees produces a curious whistling noise that keeps me up.

The flickering flame by my bedside throws skulking shadows upon the walls opposite. So I keep the windows firmly shut. Absolutely useless. I'm sure it must be my occasionally erratic* magic that stirs the fire so.

Perhaps reading the forbidden tomes tucked in the recesses* of the library wasn't such a good idea. But I only sought an enchantment to quell* my uneasiness.

The mannequins… I hate their hollow stares.

I try singing myself to sleep. But it's not the same knowing the watchers can hear, too.

Reduced to a Silly Filly,

Sweetie Belle

september 24
something sure has got sweetie belle's skirts in a twist. maybe because of those darned watchers. they creep me out too. all them squinty eyes red as the glaring summer suns and spidery legs poking out of their cloaks.

might as well spend time on the 'ancient bee-moth' assignment this weekend. there's a storm choking up the skies, and we can't hardly harvest.

kinda weird, but silver spoon just asked to be my partner?? maybe her idea of some sick joke? she's been hangin round the farm a lot. but diamond tiara looked mighty cross with her.

hang on, where's snails??
—apple bloom.

Sept 24
Dear diary
~~She caught me. Now she's not speaking to me. But I fear she might read these words, so blot them out I shall! Never mind how much it feels like blackening out everything that meant anything to me.~~

OMGGGG

~~I can't even bother anymore.~~

~~Working with Snips on the project. Asked him about Snails' absence, but he said he doesn't know why. Apparently, Snails never showed up at Snips' house like they'd agreed to.~~

~~Maybe the enforcers got him. I heard the mayor was tightening up security. Something about leeching out the bad blood flowing through our village.~~

~~~Silver Spoon

24 September
I'm partnering up with this filly at school, she's called Flutsie or something. She never says much. Maybe she's shy! It's always the shy ones you gotta be careful of.

I wonder if she's ever done away with somepony before. I'll ask her! And befriend her! She could use a good friend. Everypony's bound to get lonely sometimes. Even fierce and fearsome pirates like me!

Oh, on the way to school, I could sense something following me! There was this quiet crunching and whirring. Maybe Flutsie can be my first mate and help me keep a look out!
~Pipsqueak of the high seas~

24
He asked if I'd ever killed. I smiled and said that's between me and the dead. He asked my weapon of choice. I said an assassin never reveals her secrets. He got excited and said well I use swords! Want to learn?

I wonder if he believed me. And if that is why my classmates shun me. Perhaps a solitude borne out of fear isn't so bad.

Tootsie

September 24
Snails has not returned. He's been hurt.

On the bright side, he will never see Diamond Tiara again, not even in private…

— Snips

September 25
Dearest Diary,

Oh dear. Today I realized who was missing from yesterday's class roster*.

He crashed through the poor front door, hooves flying in all directions, muttering half-apologies and expletives* that made Ms. Cheerilee's face drain to the palest, flimsiest of whites. Just for a microsecond*, her ashen-paper face contorted* into a grimace of horror. I tried to inquire what was wrong, but she brushed me off. She used to be so open, and bright as a fresh bluebird…

I wonder what happened to Rarity. She promised she'd return today. Is it too implausible* to think that she's… detained?

I notice today, Apple Bloom is absent. I've heard rumors of trouble in her family. Trouble with the law.

Is it too much to hope that Sweet Apple Acres might be spared——

Sept. 25
OHMYGODS. I cannot BELIEVE what just happened. Now Sweetie's freeeaking ouuut. C'mon, Sweetie. It's only a LITTLE blood sheeeesh.

Aw ponyfeathers. Some of it dripped onto my desk. Grooooss. It smells all coppery and sharp, and boy does it sting your throat.

WELL since Miss Cheerilee's being utterly useless, guess I better go and sort this mess out. And try to keep my pesky ex-shadow from sticking his camera up in the poor colt's face.

Sept 25
Dear diary
~~I've quieted Diamond Tiara down for now. Yeah yeah, I know I said I hated her, but she looked so pathetic screaming her little lungs out. Don't want her puking up internal organs as well.~~

~~But it serves her right, punching him like that.~~

~~Poor colt. He still has a little river of blood leaking out from his lips. What a way to end the first week of school.~~

~~~Silver Spoon

September 25
Nopony has noticed yet, thank the goddesses. His eyelids are so swollen and blue-violet you can hardly see the scar tissue. Can't see the little snip at the corners; no rose-blood blooming to give it away.

But his screaming. Sooner or later, they will decipher his unintelligible gibberish, and then they will know. Yet with each shuddering heave of his chest, he chokes a little more on his blood.

Still, they will make a scapegoat out of that dastardly witch of a filly.

Not me. Never me.

— Snips

25-09 11:21:13
Autumnal Blooms—a study on the unique colorations of blood and bruises blossoming upon the multi-hued bodies of ponies. My delicate flower garden. A rainbow of infinite ideas.

I have tons of fantastic captures of Subject #4. "Little Wings"—majestic purple rippling across orange, pus-green oozing sores, on white asphalt or withering grass. One of my favorite color palettes.

And now something new to add to the collection. Brilliant, sticky red on sickly yellow fur.

Featherweight, junior photographer.

25
Oh. I didn't know blood was so… revolting. Even the little sprays of scarlet when he coughs… It's too much for me.

I thought I could handle it.

Tootsie

Sept. 25
Ok, DT has stopped screaming, and Snails has stopped coughing out his lungs. I'm no doctor, but I say he'll live. At least until tomorrow.

But what's w. Miss Cheerilee? She's aaaalways taking charge, sticking her muzzle in if you even SNIFFLE a decibel louder than usual. But now she's pulled some kinda disappearing act on us.

Not that it even MATTERS. I can't just hop on my scooter like I used to and forget my worries since it's now ILLEGAL. And RD's off and joined the Wonderbolts. "Emergency recruitment" she says. Steaming pile of horse dung I say. What's the POINT now that she's gone? What good are idols if they only let you down?

CHRONICALLY depressed FOR LIFE~ Scootaloo

September 26
Dearest Diary,

Since I can't bear to part with you, dearest, I've taken you with me!! With you, I'll not be lonely tonight! I shall brave the dark and any demons it wishes to throw me!

Actually, I jest*. Featherweight's here as well. Oughtn't he be with his partner?

I attempted to see Apple Bloom earlier, but Sweet Apple Acres was locked down at severity 10, so I thought it best to tackle the project solo first.

I've procured a shelf's worth of research books and some primary source* documents, promising profusely* to safeguard* them with my soul. Pinkie Pie, who was anxiously tailing the princess like a lost puppy, even made me Pinkie Promise. I feel guilty for swiping one of Twilight's personal books for my midnight reading after that.

I really mustn't strain myself writing, as I've recently taken a tumble and crushed the very tip of my horn. Curse that colt and his insistence that I perform an impromptu* song-and-dance routine on those treacherous stairs. Rarity warned me.

Naturally, he stood gaping like a goldfish and furiously clicking his camera rather than acting as a proper gentlecolt should and helping me up.

With Horn and Dignity Dented,

Sweetie Belle

Sept 26
Dear diary
~~Diamond Tiara came stomping through my house, shrieked shrilly about a no-good, cheating, two-faced rat-of-a-partner, then stomped out. Things aren't going well with Featherweight, I'm guessing?~~

~~Hang on. She left the front door open again. Give me a moment.~~

September 26th
Dear Diary:

I shoooould have realized!!! That evil, manipulative witch. She's gone and stolen my charming prince again!!!!! What more can you expect from a thief who not only steals hearts, but also books on dark magic from the Princess??????

Ohhhh yes. I know her secret. She can hide aaaaall she likes. But I'll still be keeping a veeeery close eye on her.

Maybe her books on daaark, twisted, evil magic can teach her how to fix smashed windows and bruised necks!!!!!!!

Sweet and Single,
Diamond Dazzle Tiara~
Only daughter of Filthy Rich, Esq. of the Sight Rights Division

26-09 17:07:48
Sweetie Belle looks beautiful in red. I can taste how sharp and sweet the contrast of blazing red on pure white is. Like delicate roses in the sharpness of winter.

Sadly, I was interrupted by my partner. She wasn't pleased. If she smiled, she might not look half-bad.

Ah, she's glaring again. Back to writing on the tale of the love potion that started the tradition of Hearts and Hooves Day.

Featherweight, junior photographer.

Sept 26
~~My partner says little, but when he does, words tumble out of his mouth like he's trying to speak around a swollen tongue. And glares accusingly if I even frown slightly! His first words to me were "So you don't think I'm bright huh? Cause I'm overweight?"~~

~~How exactly am I meant to react? "No," I said quickly. But he continued to act as prosecutor, judge, and jury with his eyes!~~

~~This is going to be a long project.~~

~~~Silverspoon

September 26
I have tried to approach my partner with civilized conversation, but she brushes off my sincere attempts and responds in her usual slow and stupid way. I asked her to refrain from commenting on my weight or intelligence.

"...Uhhh, noooo?" she said slowly, as if having to think about her response for several eons.

I declined to comment out of respect, but all tact's lost on her anyway. (Much like it is on Snails.)

I fear this project will drag on far too long. Might as well abandon ship as the winds of miscommunication and teenaged social awkwardness provide no such smooth sailing ahead.

— Snips

26 September
Went to investigate the stalkers at 0700 hours. Thought I could catch them bright and early, all I got was a smouldering heap of ash and molten steel. Whoa, they're good!

Started teaching Flutsie how to handle a cutlass. She was hesitant at first, but I told her she'd be fine. She asked if she could use a fake sword for starters, but I told her a true pirate's gotta have spunk, style and guts!

She kept insisting until finally I got her one of my old ones from when I was littler. She seemed happy as a clam then, I didn't mention I swapped ours when she wasn't looking!
~Sneaky pirate Pipsqueak~

Sept. 26
Now they're fencing us in and adding MORE restrictions on top of the other crap they're saddling us w. They've got these maaasive sets of iron gates surrounding the entire village. I heard they're chaining the detained too. Whaaat.

Wanted to go outside, but it's fogged up EVERYWHERE. Gray and gray and gray, all thick and nasty-smelling, piled up on the roads. Can't see ANYTHING.

So now I'm writing to stave off total boredom. And to distract myself from the fact that RD toootally IGNORED me as she was whipping by on her "rounds". Laaaame.

Ignored once again~ Scoots

26
Oh… I'm soaked red. It's everywhere…

He said he was sorry.

Why are you apologizing for my mistakes?

Tootsie

September 26

They're in here. They're inside.
How did they get in? They were never meant to! Never!

Red and red and red. Everywhere. And it's not even my blood. But oh, how I wish it were. Because blood cannot see. Blood cannot watch.

She took him away, and now I'm alone with the mannequins. And now they do have eyes. Little metal, spidery eyes.

Books will comfort me. I can devour them and everything they offer.

Your Sweetest and Most Careful,

Sweetie Belle

— and I'll be your host! The date is September 27th, and there's no sign of the fog lifting! Today, the mayor has initiated a temporary lockdown. So lock the doors, bar the windows, snuff the flames. There's nothing after us, but do so anyway. And keep close to these government-issued radios! They'll be your only connection to the outside world as we wait out the storm. Boy is this one a doozy! —

Sept 27
Dear diary
~~I'm wrapped in my favorite wool blankets. Diamond Tiara says she'd be embarrassed to be caught with these, but I like them.~~

~~Oh ponyfeathers, I heard a crash from downstairs. Should I check it out? But the stairs creak like rattly old bones, and there are cobwebs everywhere in this ancient house. Wish me luck?~~

September 27th
Dear Diary:

I can't even do this project with him anymore!!! He's like cute and all, but the way he looks at me? It's like all he sees is some nasty mess somepony made and it disgusts him!!!!!

Am I that revolting?

Even Silver Spoon looks away from me. It used to be her they scorned.

Totally Underappreciated Filly,
Diamond Dazzle Tiara~
Only daughter of Filthy Rich, Esq. of the Sight Rights Division

Sept 27
~~She fails to understand the simple concept that locked door equals do not enter!!! What's she even doing in my house? She's always galloping through like she owns the place.~~

~~Such arrogance. How could I have been blind to her? No wonder decent fillies like Apple Bloom never fully looked me in the eyes.~~

~~I only hope that focusing on my silverwork, repairing some silver jewelry she broke, will send a clear message that I do not wish to be disturbed! But she insists on hovering dangerously near the stove of hot coals where I work.~~

~~~Silver Spoon

— bitter and cold out, ladies and gentlecolts, bitter-and-cold. Best don those musty winter coats and boots. Unwrap them from their Winter-Wrapped-Up states! Aaaand don't forget: nothing beats a niiiice, hot fire warming up your fur in this cold-cold-cold weather of ours. Be sure to drop by Sugarcube Corner for a steaming mug of hoooot chocolate when the severity level drops to 3! —

27 September
Can I trust her? She confessed she'd never held a sword of any sort before, but when our mock battle got heated, she really started to parry and thrust with fervor!

Soon, I was the one dodging her passionate strikes. Came straight out of the blue! All of a sudden, she's wielding that baby thing like she's had decades of experience! Woosh! Swish! Shoom! Hop here. Sidestep there. Duck! Hoof it to one side. And the other!

Then she just—slices me! Quick curve up, and I gushed like a fountain! OK, not quite. But it was impressive how much it hurt.

Mother said at least she didn't sever a major artery. But she wouldn't meet my eyes. Just softly ruffled my mane and donned the blackest hat I've ever seen.
~Still alive and kicking, Pipsqueak~

— reports of vi-o-lent crimes rocking the neighborhood! A friendly reminder to everypony out there: stay safe. Have sharp objects near at hoof! Keep metal tongs in the fire so you can burn-burn-burn any and all uninvited shadows creeping up on you! But most importantly —

Sept 27
I said I was sorry!!!

~~She was whining and whining and~~ whining ~~about her dad losing his job and how will she~~ possibly ~~get that cute baby blue miniskirt now and whine whine~~ whine~~! It was~~ so ~~hard to concentrate on soldering the silver with her~~ shrill ~~complaining!~~

~~And I~~ shouted ~~well~~ maybe ~~if you didn't act like a fat~~ pig~~, greedily gobbling up all his money and wasting it on stupid dresses that make you look an~~ even fatter pig!

And she started screaming and bawling and howling, these wild and beastly screeches about how I never appreciate her, just screaming in my face, and then I—slipped. The torch just went up and up and up before I could stop myself, and it caught her, and and and—

But it wasn't my fault!

September 27
I visited Pipsqueak's side of the apartment, and his mother's half-crazed eyes told a grim tale. She was worrying at her lip and quivering her tail as if trying to swat off something unpleasant. (Or to ward off the throes of death?)

I wanted to see him, but she barred me from entering. I wanted to know who did this, but she tried to herd me out into the connecting hall.

It matters not. I already know the perpetrator.

It's only a matter of finding her before she hurts another…

— Snips

27
Somepony's following me. I can hear the crunch of dead leaves beneath their hooves.

Stop, won't you. Please…

Tootsie

september 27
whew! just got released this morning and hoo-wie was it a rough one. all that gosh-darned probing! well i reckon they got what they been searching for. granny apple smith they released after i sweet talked them out of it, but as for applejack, no luck.

she do deserve it, though.

i told her trappin the metal monsters was against the law, and i told her i wouldn't have her cavorting with such disgraceful conduct, not in front of impressionable young'uns like me. jumpin through loopholes is fine and dandy, but outright criminal activity? not in this family.

we got a name to uphold, sis.
—apple bloom.

Dearest Diary

How could she??? Everything hurts.
Diamond Dazzle Tiara~

— if your loved ones are detained, here's how you can heeeelp prevent yourself from suffering the same! Ensure you do not possess the following: poisons, correspondence from detainees, heavy books on dark magic stolen from the community library, and heretical slander concerning the princesses! If you have aaaany of the above, toss them out! All signs of movement are being clooosely monitored and their source documented and incinerated.

Also! Residents are encouraged not to leave their homes for the above reason! For your safety, of course, you silly-fillies! —

27
It's so cold out… So cold and lonely. But I'm not alone. I can feel electricity crackle in the air.

The hoofsteps have stopped. For now.

But… There's something else out here. Watcher or…?

Tootsie

September 27
It's dangerous to remain outside for long. I can smell it in the crisp, sharp air. It has a distinctly metallic taste that stings and pricks your throat. Little cuts and incisions and abrasions. The cold just snip-snip-snipping and biting at your hooves.

The wind carries its coppery-tinged stench, and with it, the scorch of searing-hot metal and singed flesh.

It's dangerous but I'll brave it for Snails' sake.

I'm almost close enough to see her now.

It's dangerous but I might live to tell this tale…

(Gotcha.)

— Snips

September 27
Dearest Diary,

Something's happening outside. Amidst the thick fog rolling down the deserted streets, I can barely make out oily plumes* of black smoke and sharp flashes of metal. I hear it too. Going clang! clang! clang! through the boarded up windows.

Otherwise, it's silent. No screams.

Funny how I expected screams.
Your Shivering Darling,

Sweetie Belle

28 September
It rained an hour ago. First pitter-pattering on the roof, drumming light as a moth's kiss, then streaming down harder and harder, thrashing against the boarded-shut windows. Trying to punch straight through our two-storey flat, I bet!

I tried to prying the boards off the window by my bed. I can't see much through the rain staining the glass, but I saw my neighbour limping up the steps!

What was he doing outside?
~Still stuck-in-bed Pipsqueak~

— the weather is peachy-keen! And you know what that means! Rain expected aaaall day long, so wear your best and brightest boots!

Today, the temporary lockdown is now temporarily lifted! So while you're out-and-about, why not stop by Sugarcube Corner? We'll fill your wildest, whipped-cream-topped, melted-chocolate-covered double-peach-and-butter sundae fundae desires! —

September 28
Dearest Diary,

I cannot stand the wretched* stares of the mechanical monstrosities* that lurk in the nooks and crannies and shadows of the boutique. Always waiting, always watching.

Today, I shall visit Apple Bloom, as the radio has announced that we are free to leave our homes.

Research on the subject of the behemoth has been surprisingly difficult. Many accounts seem to contradict one another, and some claim there never was such a being in the first place!

Yours,

Sweetie Belle

09-28 10:16:12
Turns out it's a love poison in that old tale of Hearts and Hooves Day.

Eyewitness accounts of their reign are different from the official story. Apparently, upon drinking the poison, both prince and princess started sprouting purple welts all over. Their faces contorted, eyes bulging, skin sagging and sallow, drooping over their jaw lines. Gross, huh? And best of all, they had to look at each other for an eternity.

Tried looking for the recipe, but the page was torn out. What remained said that there could be unusual side effects, as had occurred to the royal couple.

Wish I could go back in time and get a shot of that. Or a cup of that.

Featherweight, junior photographer.

september 28
somepony's comin up to the farm. i reckon it's sweetie belle! better hide these letters from Rarity before she

September 28
Dearest Diary,

I am absolutely furious! To think that all this time, it was Apple Bloom who betrayed her! Oh yes. I've discovered her illicit* stash of letters from Rarity! I can report her, if I'm so inclined.

I'm afraid what I'd done instead was less merciful. Ever since my tumble, my magic has been volatile* and uncontrollable.

I feared for my life, dearest! I could not leave her and risk detainment! I only meant for the best!

september 28
i'm chokin. i can barely breathe. coughin burns my lungs. it hurts.

everything hurts.

she found the letters. just teleported in and scared the daylights out of me while i was scurryin to hide them. tore them right out of my hooves fore i could.

then the room got dark and murky as a bog. she started whispering first, soft little whistling like a sparrow. then her speech garbled and she became louder and louder til she was screaming and screaming and i was screaming with her.

and then i wasn't.

and then i couldn't.
—apple bloom.

Sept. 28
If she won't come to ME, I'll find HER.

Right now, her superior's yelling at the detainees rattling their chains by Town Hall. WOW she means business. Orange n yellow blazing right through that heavy fog, w. a bulldog's snarl that screams "stand down or I'll WHIP you". No wonder RD likes her. But they'd be aaaawful together. RD can do soooo much better.

Hay, is that Sweetie Belle over there, scampering in the shadows? Haven't spoken AT ALL to her yet. Hope she don't see me.

Totally a great friend~ Scoots

September 28

I left Sweet Apple Acres 27 minutes ago.

Eight minutes ago, I passed Town Hall, avoiding the desperate pleas of the chained detainees. Seven minutes ago, I had to duck beneath the trees to avoid the patrol of pegasi. Six minutes ago, I had to dodge a gang of cloaked watchers. Five minutes ago, I received a violet letter.

And now, the village bells are tolling. I fear the worst.

Yours,

Sweetie Belle

— bells are ringing! Time to wrap up your last purchase and heaaaad on back! We're temporarily revoking our temporary lift on the temporary lockdown. So trot your little hoovsies back on home! A wise pony once said that home is where the heart is, so why should you ever wanna leave? Tomorrow's still a school day! Escorts will appear on your doorstep at 6 sharp —

Sept 28
Dear diary
~~Am I wrong? She was my only friend after all. Maybe that's what friends are for. Feeding you tough love and beating you down so you can arise stronger. Ignoring you until you scream for attention. Humiliating you until you learn to bear your shame.~~

~~I used to be the smartest foal in the class, and everypony hated me for being different. Everypony but her.~~

~~School resumes tomorrow. I don't know if she'll be there. She left in a mess. I can't bear to see her.~~

~~~Silver Spoon

28 September
Somepony's beating against the paper-thin walls. Odd! It's usually quiet on my neighbour's side, except when his uncle staggers in. Then it's like fireworks exploding next door!

My chest still aches horribly, but mother says there's a chance I'll be well enough for school tomorrow! And if not, I'll have to anyway.
~Still bed-stuck, Pipsqueak~

— night's rearing its hooves at us and galloping fast! I'm coming at you live from the tippy-top of the radio tower, and let me tell you the view is gorgeous! Craaaazy talk, right? I know you haven't seen the sunset in months, but why not enjoy the view? Just imagine that the thousands of glittering red eyes are rose buds poking through the dust —

29 September
I had a nightmare about her. My memory's somewhat hazy, but I vividly remember her sharp, blue figure staring murderously down at me.

She seemed a sweet filly. But don't they all?

I shouldn't have stayed up reading my favorite mysteries, but I was sooo bored! I wanna be outside, prancing around in my robes or rags! Not trapped under the blankets like an invalid!

I can hear somepony scratching at my door. Like they're digging knives into the cracked wood. Probably my imagination.

September 29
Dearest Diary,

I think they've left the boutique. Couldn't see a peep out of them last night. Yet I sense that there's something still in here with me. I tried to reveal it with magic, but to no avail*. It was only in the deepest parts of the night that I heard the quiet, thoughtful, methodical click-click-clicking.

september 29
they came knockin at 5. when i tried to speak, i found i was chokin on my spit!

and all of a sudden i remembered what sweetie had done and the heavy hammer i'd stuck in my schoolbag last night.

deprive me of my right to speak, will you? two can play this game, partner.

September 29
His absence is conspicuous. Everypony else is here, coerced on threat of possible detainment... or worse.

My heart punches a quick one-two beneath my ruffled blue coat. I'm nervous. Anxious.

I feel hollowed out. Weightless. An empty shell floating through the void, stirred by nothing. A dissemination of was and used-to-be.

September 29
Dearest Diary,

We're all assembled, yet one is absent. I see the rest put faith in believing him or her to be detained or otherwise preoccupied.

I know better. That feeling of being closely watched has not left me. I must make inquiries. A loose cannon must be struck down before it blows.

september 29
i count nine total. somepony missin? that's real cunnin, evadin the escorts.

Sept. 29
Ugh this is awwwkward! I'm kicking my hooves up, everypony's eying each other, and Miss Cheerilee's gnawing on chalk. When's class gonna START?

Awww ponyfeathers. The wind's picking up outside, madly whistling through the trees. I can see some shadows chilling by the lunch tables too.

September 29th
Dear Diary:

I refuse to be within the vicinity of that backstabber. Or should I say, backscorcher??? Let's see how that witch does on her own. Let's just see.

I'll be here in the veeery back. Come to me if you want to apologize. I'm waiting.

Sept 29
Dear diary
~~I can see her in the very back row. She's not looking directly at me, but I feel her stare all the same. She isn't doing much. Pursing her lips, head tossed back, one hoof absently tapping her desk.~~

~~Do you believe me that stupid? I don't need you anymore. I'm not falling for that. I won't be the fly ensnared in your honey-sweet Venus flytrap.~~

09-29 07:14:19
It's dark in the classroom. The lights are half-dimmed, and they flicker every fourth or fifth second. I'll need to increase the ISO speed on my camera in this semi-darkness as a flash will cast unnatural light.

I can't stand unnatural shots. I need real emotions here. Real anger and real pain. That's what it takes to be a true artist.

— there's been a breakout! Be warned, Ponyvillians! This is severity level 8, I repeat, severity level 8!! If you see detainees, do not approach! Immediately notify a nearby watcher! They're here to protect, not harm you! Usually! —

September 29
He's gone. Snails is honestly gone. The ill omens I spoke of mere days ago have passed. And for all my troubles, I couldn't stop it. (But could I have done more?)

Surprisingly, the yellow earth pony came to comfort me. She nodded solemnly, and her eyes conveyed that she too had experienced loss.

And in the darkness of the classroom, we two lost souls bonded…

September 29

We're meant to be working, but I cannot concentrate. Why, oh why, did I have to select a seat in the front? I feel their stares. All the time.

I've smuggled one of the volumes* from Princess Twilight's personal collection with me. There must be something within these worn and yellowed pages to help. There must.

september 29
i know he misses snails something fierce.

he also keeps mentioning some tootsie, warning not to trust her. i don't even know her. 'she's the creepy one,' is all he'll say.

Sept. 29
I can baaarely see what I'm DOING. Have to squint. When I asked Miss Cheerilee to brighten the room, she whispered that lighting was regulated at Town Hall. Breakout must've done a real number on overseeing.

Whaaatever. It's hard to pay attention with the thunder crashing outside and the spattering of lightning in the distance, cracking open the skies every few minutes. Toootally creepy.

September 29th

She still has not apologized. I can't wait forever.

At least I'm not the only one with relationship issues. Featherweight and Sweetie Belle are arguing over his camera. Serves them right.

29 September
I'm trying to work, but it's not easy! All I think of is the blood and the glint in her eyes, all I hear are the words "Tootsie" and "kill", over and over, from the blue earth pony sitting behind me. I'm afraid to ask what he means. But I can't not know!

September 29
I see I'm not the only one with my suspicions of Tootsie. Her absence is significant. But it would not bode well to neglect the possibility that she may be here, merely hiding…

September 29

One of my classmates has enlisted* the participation of all in seeking out another of our number. I assumed right. There was somepony watching.

But what to do? Do I cast a simple searching spell which may not suffice* and be forever uncertain? Or one of the more complex magics dwelling within the depths of this dark tome and risk detection?? Oh I simply don't know!!

Still, I welcome any distraction to my prior viewing of the most disturbing set of photos I've ever seen.

september 29
they're tryin to make a scapegoat out of poor tootsie! that brain-addled colt's a liar. i won't stand for dishonesty! i'm clutchin my hammer with my hoof now. when the time comes, i'll be prepared.

Sept. 29
Everypony's too busy flipping out about Tootsie to pay attention to the fact that there's something SCRATCHING AT THE DOOR. Um helloooo. Get it together! It's a lockdown. Nopony should be out there. So who is it!?

09-29 7:56:23
There's fear in everypony's eyes. I can see their pupils shiver and dilate.

But Sweetie's eyes terrify even me. There's a fire licking at the edges of her green irises. I know she's upset, but I can't think why. How can she not see the raw beauty in the photographs of her?

Sept 29
~~They're convinced it's Tootsie. But I don't see why they hoof the blame on her. Isn't it clear that the true culprit is none other than Diamond Tiara? She's the one who nearly killed Snails. And who knows who else she's been manipulating?~~

Sept. 29
It's STILL at the door. Everypony just SHUT UP. Can't you hear it?

Something's trying to get in.

September 29

I feel nauseous. The photos… What's wrong with the photos??

I've completed a quick scour* of the schoolhouse. There is something out there. Something waiting. Something watching.

Something scraping and scratching and knocking. Scritch scratch, scritch scratch.

september 29
miss cheerilee's been shakin for the past hour. she keeps glancin through the windows. but only shadows play on the window panes.

what's been botherin her? she's hoverin by the door, lookin expectant.

September 29
Now's our chance. Ms. Cheerilee has gone outside to investigate. Now we may proceed with our own investigation. Where, oh where, could she be hiding?

Sept. 29
Diamond Tiara's back is CHARRED like I'm not even JOKING. It's reddish-pink and covered in scars. She started sobbing as soon as I mentioned it. It can't have been Tootsie. Can it?

September 29

"Find Tootsie. Find Tootsie." Over and over in an endless mantra*.

She's already slain* Snails and severely wounded Diamond Tiara. We're dealing with an elusive* foal who has mastered both the sword and the flame.

september 29
screaming. endless, breathless screaming. shrill enough to nearabout crack the windows.

everypony's dead silent now. speechless. just like me.

29 September
Tootsie! It has to be her! She's got another victim outside. But who to send? We can't all go!

Sept 29
~~"Who did this? Who did this?" They keep questioning her, and she won't stop crying. I'm terrified she'll name me. What if she names me?? What then?~~

~~I'll be ruined. I'll be killed. Like before, there'll be no mercy.~~

~~Take her! Send~~ her out! Have her find Tootsie just not me please not me!!

September 29

If I step outside, I'll be slaughtered!!!! How can they do this to me? How???

Nopony knows what happens when a watcher catches you. Nopony has even seen one up close. Both mist and hood obscure it completely.

Sept 29
~~She was resisting~~ how dare she resist?? ~~After everything.~~ After everything!! ~~I was justified~~ I know I was!!

Sept. 29
WOAH she ATTACKED her. DT threw a hissy fit on being sent out, and then Silver Spoon just launches at her throat and SNARLS. I'm sooo not even kidding WHAT'S going on.

September 29

I had to rip them apart with my magic, expending* much needed energy. What if somepony attacks me? How will I resist then?

I know Apple Bloom bears a grudge. And I know Featherweight will not lift a feather to stop her. He'll probably even enjoy it, that wretch.

29 September
The tension's so thick you cut it with a knife! It's a classic case of whodunnit! Accusations flying, ponies dying. And now the femme fatale has left the scene…

september 29
more screams. now featherweight's rushin out with his camera. does he really think now's the appropriate time for a photo shoot??

sweetie's in her corner, eyes dartin about. she got nothing to fret about. i've a hawk's eye on that witch.

September 29
Featherweight returns alone, his camera battered and caked in blood. Something has occurred, but his babbling is incoherent. Out with it, simpleton! What did you see? (Or didn't see?)

Sept. 29
He keeps yelling, "Not her not her!!" As if that even MEANS anything. WHAT isn't her? And whose blood IS that?

September 29

I keep flipping through the pages, but there's nothing remotely useful! Not unless I plan on disintegrating* entire skeletal structures or turning gray matter into cheese!!

Apple Bloom keeps staring at me. Stop. Just stop. All the eyes, watching watching watching!! If only——

september 29
it occurs to me that the killer's still loomin outside, unchecked. what say we investigate, sweetie? you and me?

09-29 09:06:12
Now that I've quieted, they leave me alone. Nopony dares ask about my camera nor the blood trickling in gentle streams.

I won't say what happened. I can't believe what I saw, so how should they?

September 29

She beckoned with shaking hooves, shoving her diary at me and glaring through narrowed eyes. In a trance, I followed her.

It's dark and miserable outside. Tenebrous* figures loom in the filmy mist.

And the noises. I can hear the scraping and the rattling of chains. Endless jangling that rings harshly in my ears.

I feel exposed in the open. Surrounded by a multitude of shrouded watchers and whatever else lurks in the corners of my peripheral* vision.

september 29
still writin in your diary? what, nothing to say to me?

don't forget what you've done, sweetie. i'll make sure of that.

Sept 29
~~That's Diamond Tiara's blood. I'm certain. He's soaked in Diamond Tiara's blood.~~

~~I'm torn. Half of me wants to avenge her death, and the other half wants to have been the cause.~~

Sept 29
Perfectly normal to take a weapon on a dangerous mission, right? Except I don't think AB took it w. her for defense. Ohmygods if my friends start slaughtering each other I SWEAR I'm gonna kill them both. Ugggh, better break this one up again.

september 29
lay a thread of magic on me, and they'll be on you like savage hounds on a bleedin bunny. you can't touch me. might as well confront your problems now, partner.

don't try runnin neither. you know us earth ponies have more stamina than you unicorns.

but i'll let you say your last words. i won't deny you that.

Sept 29
Where aaare they? The courtyard's just empty wastelands smothered in fog. I can't find them ANYWHERE. And it's FREEZING out here.

Now there are dark flashes on the other side of the path, and it's not lightning. What the? There's a whole LINE of figures crawling down the hills. They're marching in single file, shackled by metal. Heading right for Sweetie and Apple Bloom.

Sept 29
~~I should be happy she's gone. Happy or satisfied or sad or something! But all I feel is emptiness.~~

~~The anger's there, but it's not at her. Maybe it never was. Maybe I never hated her, and now she's gone, and~~

09-29 09:26:15
I can't stop shaking. It's all this excitement. Maybe this drink Diamond Tiara left will calm my nerves. She won't mind, not anymore.

September 29
Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom have not returned. Neither has Scootaloo, who left shortly afterward. I fear Tootsie may have claimed another three victims.

Our number is dwindling. Who to send next?

29 September
Something's happening on the other side of the room! I'm trying to creep closer, but my hooves don't wanna move. My heart's jerking in my throat, and it hurts, it hurts so bad. I can't admit it aloud but I'm scared, I'm dead scared.

The lights flared out 10 minutes ago. I hate the dark.

September 29
I called to the colt a little ways in front. He's a talkative one, but few talk to him. This time, I initiated the conversation.

"They've not come back," I said. "You seem brave. Report to me your findings if you return."

He stared at me speechlessly, jaw slack, then nearly tripped on his way out. Our number dwindles yet again.

Sept 29
~~Something's wrong with Featherweight. He's choking. Gasping for air like a fish out of water. When his fur began falling out in patches and his mottled skin began to sag, I had to stop gripping at his neck.~~

~~I don't know what curse this is, but I'll not have it touch me. Nature will take her own in time.~~

09-29
I must write so somepony knows. Her drink was poisoned. That's why her mane had fallen and blood spattered her sides and the broken bodies in the cold alley. It wasn't Tootsie. Not her. Not her——

Sept 29
~~He's gone. Flakes of his skin litter his desk; they flutter when I disturb the surrounding air. He's caved in on himself. Nopony should ever be twisted in such a sickening way.~~

~~"I've sent another," my partner announced.~~

~~"You seem no worse for the wear, considering," I countered.~~

~~"Neither do you…"~~

~~No need to write my last words. I'll come out victorious when all is said and done. While I'd sat at my desk, brimming with anger toward my only friend, he'd been sending us to our deaths, one by one. But no more.~~

Sept. 29
I can see them. They look like they're at each other's THROATS. The lines of hooded ponies are lurching toward them reeeal fast. I gotta go. Now.

29 September
No signs of anypony out here! Think I'll call it quits and head on back. Pity about the deaths!

Oh no. There are a series of bright flashes from the other side, and somepony's floating in the air, hoisting somepony else with them. Oh no no no. This can't be good.

Sept 29
She's rising up and taking AB with her and I can't do ANYTHING to stop it. I tried SCREAMING and hollering just SOMETHING to help but NOTHING HELPS.

I can't help.

The rattling is growing closer. And the hooded watchers are descending.

Sept 29
~~I lost. We both have. Nothing matters anymore.~~

~~I thought I hated her, but I didn't. I don't know~~ myself. I don't want to know.

I'll never know now——

September 29
Dear Snails,

This is the last I'll ever write you. And I want you to know:

I loved you. I tried to protect you. (I failed.)

I only wish you'd known before…

— Snips

Sept. 29
They've set the fields on fire. SHOULD'VE known. They don't want to leave evidence or a MESS to clean up tomorrow. I guess this is goodbye…

29 September
I found her body. Tootsie lies cold beneath day-old blood. She was just a little, lost filly trying to convince herself she could be somepony. Anypony.

We were all wrong about her.

September 29
Dear anyone still out there,

These may be my final words. The odds are stacked against me, and I risk losing everything. Even now the cloaked watchers approach, dragging their thin, spidery legs along the dewy grass. I sense a net tightening around me. A noose clenched around my throat.

But, my end is a promise. Our princess has cursed us all with a life of fear. And a life of fear is no life at all.

We all thought something was after us. We all believed we were doing only what would bring safety. But we never suspected that what we needed protection from most was ourselves.

It was us all along.

I only have one final statement to make before whatever befalls me occurs:

I love you. I always have.

Goodbye.

Yours and Forever,

Sweetie Belle

— bodies lying on the ground in the aftermath, but don't fret! It's to be expected! Our local flying team will clean it up for us! They've reported finding various diaries and scraps of paper around the schoolhouse. Somepony'll eventually comb through those. But now, we must part.

This has been your host, Pinkie Pie, and I'm afraid to say I'll no longer be with you on these lonely nights. The town lockdown has been permanently lifted! So finally, goodbye and goodnight! And above all, keep safe, keep still, and keep alert...

Author's Note

What in the alien pits of hell did you just read.