Sweetie Belle's new lifeby THE MUFFIN MANChaptersCH:1 (The worst vacation ever)CH:2 (The run)Chapter 3: Nightmares come to lifeCH:1 (The worst vacation ever)It was late at night in a small town known as Ponyville, all was quiet. There were no ponies in the streets, no animal life, not even the bars were open. In the small town, the lights to every home were off, every home except one. By a small lake on the outskirts of Ponyville lived a small family. The family was like other families, they ate supper together, they sat by the fire when it got chilly and they would go out together for grocery shopping. There was one thing that they had to go through that nopony else in town knew about. The father of this small family was abusive. “Please calm down, Magnum.” Inside of the two story lake-side house were two ponies, a mare and stallion. “Oh so I have to do what you say now!? Fuck you!” The stallion said, throwing a vase at the poor mare named Pearl. Pearl was a pink unicorn mare who loved her husband very much, she always had her doubts and was scared of him when he got angry, but she knew it was all just stress from having to support their family. She always wore clothes on for she loved fashion, but her socks were a different story. When Sweetie belle was only seven years old, she had found out what her husband was doing to Sweetie Belle one night when he left the door unlocked. When she threatened to call the guard he became enraged, and threw a few glass cups and plates on the floor. Soon after he picked up a broken shard of glass and grabbed her, he told her that if she ever told anypony what she saw that he would cut off her cutie marks and feed them to her daughter. Completely terrified her mother agreed and stayed quiet but he wasn’t done, he took the shard and cut a mark square through her cutie mark, a blue dress that sparkled showing her talent of dressmaking. She never thought of speaking to anypony after the pain she had felt and stayed quiet to the day. His name was Magnum, and his cutie mark was three footballs lined up like a triangle. Magnum had never been a violent pony in the past but ever since their second daughter, a small unicorn filly with curly hair and no cutie mark named Sweetie Belle, had been born he started to become distant to his wife. The weeks after Sweetie Belle’s sixth birthday he had gotten worse. He started beating Sweetie Belle for no apparent reason. Soon magnum was ignoring and abusing her verbally, physically, and sexually. Magnum soon stopped caring about what possible things that could happen to him. Then after a few more weeks he decided to take his wife on vacation and, not wanting to raise any suspicions, left Sweetie Belle with her sister Rarity the unicorn, a prissy white unicorn, with three gems as a cutie mark. She was also a fashionista who often dreamed of living and selling her dresses in Canterlot for the most renown ponies of Equestria. Her mane and tail were both a dark shade of purple that curled up, covering one side of her face. Rarity was Magnum and Pearl’s first daughter. They were extremely proud of her, loved her, and cherished her very much. Magnum never thought of doing anything to hurt her, for she was his pride and joy. “Mmmm just a little more blue Fancy Pants,” She mumbled in her sleep as smoke started filling the room, “Mmmm and the smell of smoke.” She said to herself, not realizing what she had said until a few seconds later, “Mmm yes I-WAIT SMOKE!?” She yelled, leaping out of bed and galloping down stairs as fast as she possibly could, falling down at the top step from her speed. “Rarity!” Sweetie Belle yelled from inside the kitchen “Grr you ruined the surprise! I was gonna serve you breakfast in bed!” Sweetie exclaimed stopping her hoof on the ground for good measure. Rarity sighed from the stress. She started marching over to Sweetie Belle with a look that could beat fluttershy’s stare. She was about to let loose on Sweetie Belle before her father interrupted. “Well good morning, Rarity.” He said in the cheery tone he always used whenever he went out. “Father, Mother?” “I’ll have you know that Sweetie Belle here cooked this yummy looking breakfast here all on her own,” He said putting emphasis around the word yummy, “So don't eat it.” He mumbled under his breath. “Uhhh figured,” Rarity said, sniffing one of the cups on the table that had smoke arising from it, “I didn’t know you could burn juice.” “I’ve been giving her lessons. I wouldn’t be surprised if she’s got a cutie mark in fancy cooking by the time we come back from our vacation.” Her mother said with a smile on her face. She knew it was fake and so did Sweetie Belle. They both learned to smile when they were around guests or others inside the family, or else HE would do something to make it come back. Rarity was uncertain if the smiles were real but she kept it to herself. “Vacation? Is that this week!? As in starting this very instant this week!?” Rarity asked worriedly, “Uhh let me guess, applesauce?” Rarity asked again as Sweetie Belle brought a bowl of burnt muck to the table. “Nope, toast.” Sweetie Belle squeaked. “We’re gonna have the bestest time two sisters could ever have. I’m gonna go grab my stuff from dad’s wagon.” Sweetie said, trotting off to her father's wagon. “So, now when you say a week. Is that uhh, hmm, seven whole days?” Rarity asked, very nervous. “And six nights. I know, such a short time to spend with your little sis.” Pearl said putting her right forearm on the table and waving her hoof around. “You gonna eat that?” Magnum asked, pointing to a plates of burnt peaches that could pass as fake moustaches. “But I’ve got such a long todo list. Oh well, I suppose. 'Spend time with your sister' will just have to be added to the list.” Rarity said, pushing the plate of burnt moustache-like peaches to her father and turning her attention to a loud crash that came from the doorway. “Just a few necessities.” Sweetie Belle said closing her eyes and giving a fake smile that could pass for a real one as a few bags and suitcases fell from their precarious spots on the pile. Rarity just smiled nervously, looking back at her parents as they walked outside to a cab that was waiting for them. The four said their goodbyes, Magnum shooting Sweetie Belle a hidden glare, Sweetie knew by now that, that glare meant for her to stay quiet. Sweetie was fighting an internal battle: she could tell somepony about what her father does and possibly suffer the consequences, or keep quiet and let what was happening to her keep happening to her. There was one thing that she knew for sure though… it’s going to be a long week. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// The days went by too fast for Sweetie Belle and she knew that the monster she called father was due to return home today, which made her scared. She didn’t know what to expect, it was her father's first vacation alone with her mother and if it went well then she might not have to be scared for what her dad might do to her at night. Sweetie was waiting with her sister, a fake smile on her face as she hugged Rarity. “I hope Dad’s relaxed for once.” Sweetie murmured under her breath. “What was that Sweetie belle?” “Nothing ,Rarity, just hoping they enjoyed their week alone together.” Sweetie lied as the carriage pulled in front of the house, Magnum and Pearl coming out both with smiles on their faces. “There’s my little filly.” Magnum said with a smile on his face and his arms extended for a hug. Sweetie could tell that there was a hidden meaning to her Dad’s words but she wouldn’t dare say anything, instead she just went up to him and hugged him. Magnum put Sweetie Belle to the side before going and hugging Rarity. “Thanks for taking care of Sweetie Belle this past week.” He said walking away with Pearl before Rarity could voice a response. The three ponies got into the carriage and started heading down the road to their home.As the carriage was pulled to the house not a word was said, they all stayed quiet, Sweetie was thinking and hoping that there vacation had gone well. Magnum was thinking of the terrible vacation they just had and Pearl was thinking of the horrid things that were to come for poor Sweetie Belle. She couldn’t help but re-live the seven days. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// The carriage slowly started leaving Ponyville as the two ponies stared at each other, Magnum was smiling while Pearl was looking away. “What’s wrong honey?” Magnum asked looking genuinely concerned for the first time in years. “N-nothing, dear.” Pearl said giving an extremely fake smile. “You know I don’t like it when you lie to me.” Magnum said his smile fading and a glare taking its place. “I’m sorry dear, I’m just, I’m worried about Sweetie Belle. What’s she gonna grow up to be, living like this? I’m just I don’t want her to grow up feeling that the world hates her.” “So you’re still thinking about that little whore, even on our vacation. How about you just forget about the little bitch and enjoy yourself for once.” He said completely vexed. “But she’s my daughter and... and I want you to stop doing what you’re doing!” Pearl Shouted out of a surge courageousness as the carriage pulled through the streets of Fillydelphia. “I don’t know what you’re talking about dear, I’m not doing anything to her. Let’s just enjoy our vacation, in fact ,driver, can you stop the carriage in fillydelphia?” “Uhh, yes, sir” The brown earth pony with a carriage cutie mark said, in a rough, scratchy voice. “Thank you, and I’m sure you’ll be happy to know that you’ll get an extra twenty five bits to keep our personal life personal. Correct?” “Yes, sir.” “I’m sure you will, now we have an hour before we arrive, let’s just relax for a little bit. What do you say, Pearl?” “Umm, sure, honey.” Pearl slowly and hesitantly leaned into Magnums awaiting arms. “Just wait until we get to Fillydelphia, honey[i/].” Magnum whispered in Pearl’s ear. That’s when Pearl felt the actuality behind his action as his grip constricted around her throat, and soon she started falling unconscious from the lack of Oxygen. When Pearl woke up again, she felt terrible. She had a ball gag in her mouth and she felt like something had been done to her that she never wanted to do, then it hit her. Like a pile of bricks crashing down from the heavens, it hit her, what her husband did. She couldn't believe it but she had to, he had done it before, but never like this, never in the one spot she always pleaded him not to. The one spot where she did her business, where she thought he would be at least considerate enough to avoid, but he didnt. What made matters worse was that her fetlocks were tied to the bed posts, so she had no way out of her situation. He had her, he could do whatever he wanted to her, and she couldn't do anything even if she wanted to do something, she had no say in the matter, unlike before when she could at least plead him to go down another route. “Well, well, well... my little slut is awake.” “Magnum please l-let me go.” Pearlie cried. She knew it was hopeless but she had hope that it would work. “Oh, you don’t like being my little slut. Guess the little whore is going to have to take your place.” “No, wait...! I’ll do it,” Pearlie sighed one last sigh before muttering her final thoughts for the week, “This is going to be a long vacation.” CH:2 (The run)Her flashback ended as the carriage pulled up to the curb of their house, and they stepped off. Pearl was scared, extremely scared. She was scared not only for herself but mostly for poor Sweetie Belle. The vacation had taken a bad turn when they were half way through when a maid came in and caught her crying, while he plowed her. Shocked at the sight, the maid decided to call the guards to have him arrested. However, when they arrived Pearl lied and told them that it was her first time having a stallion in her unbloomed flower. Pearl snapped back to reality as they entered the living room. She quickly ran into the restroom to try to clean herself up after the trip. -Meanwhile in the living room- “Dad, d-did you have a great vacation?” “We sure did. Did you have a great time with Rarity, or was she having trouble keeping your whore legs closed?” Sweetie’s father said with a surprisingly beatific voice as he sat down on the couch. “N-no Daddy, she didn’t have any trouble keeping my little whore legs closed.” Sweetie said forlornly as her father patted his lap, signaling for her to jump on. “Daddy, c-can we at least wait until after dinner?” “What was that?” Her father asked, his face now showing concern in lieu of his once radiant expression. Sweetie Belle thought about what her father would do to her if he was truly angry with her. So she decided to jump onto his lap. “N-nothing dad.” She then steadied herself on his lap, readying herself for the pain she knew was coming. She was surprised when he did nothing. “What? You expect me to tire myself with a filly whore, when we have guests coming?” “N-no Dad I d-don’t.” “Maybe I should, and just send you to bed without any dinner. Aside from that, what am I gonna feed you now that you got me all hot and bothered?” Magnum spat out the question like it was venom. He placed Sweetie Belle on her two hind legs and exposed himself to his daughter . “D-do I have to?” “Do I have to hit you again!?” “O-ok Dad…” //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// -Several minutes later- Sweetie Belle was crying, trying to forget what happened, when a thought crossed her head. She could run away. Run away and be done with her father, be done with him for good. She knew it was only a dream. He would find her, no matter where she ran, no matter where she hid. He would find her, and kill her. But this was the only chance she had to escape into the night and she knew it. She also knew that she wouldn’t last long living here either way. It was now or never. Either she runs away and has the possibility of finding a new home; or stays where she’s at and lets her father have his way with her for the rest of her life. She thought about this for several minutes before slowly succumbing to sleep. -The next morning- Sweetie Belle woke up to the sound of arguing. Something was different though. This argument wasn’t about herself… it was about Rarity. “Because Rarity wasn’t a whore! Nor was she worthless!” Magnum yelled at Pearl. “Sweetie Belle is not a whore! Or worthless!” Pearl yelled back. This was Pearl’s first time yelling back at Magnum. She didn't enjoy yelling, nor did she ever support anypony yelling, but she had to make a stand for Sweetie Belle. “Only a whore would fuck their father!” Magnum yelled, clearly angered. “You force her to fuck you!” “That’s it!” Magnum screamed at his wife. He raised his hoof and brought it down, a large smacking noise emanating from her cheek as trickles of blood flowed out of her mouth. Her vision started blurring and she fell to the ground unconscious as the world through her eyes went black. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// When Pearl came to she found that she was now in her room. The curtains were drawn and the room was engulfed in darkness. She was inside her bed, made up as if she wasn't in the bed at all. Trotting out of her room she found that night had passed and Celestia’s sun was high over the horizon. As she came into the kitchen she heard voices coming from the dining room. “So what are you going to do today, Sweetie?” she heard Magnum ask. “I was planning on going out with my friends. Is that ok dad?” Sweetie asked hopefully. “I think it’s alright. What do you plan on doing with your friends?” Magnum inquired. “We’re just going to go searching for our cutie marks. Is that ok?” Sweetie squeaked. “Just don't break anything. I'm still angry about that whole Hearts and Hooves Day fiasco.” Magnum said taking another bite of the pancakes. “How do you like the pancakes?” “They’re good dad, thanks.” Sweetie said taking another bite. “Good morning.” She said trotting into the room. “Hi Pearlie. Sleep well?” Magnum asked with a smile. “More or less. What about you? It didn’t look like you came in the room last night.” “Oh, I spent the night with Sweetie Belle after our guests left last night.” He said with a toothy grin. “Oh, ok well… How about you Sweetie Belle? How was your sleep?” Pearl asked, concerned. “It was… a rough night.” Sweetie said looking away, not meeting the eyes of her mother. “Oh, come now Sweetie Belle. It wasn’t that bad,” Magnum said, smirking. “I know Dad. I’m just exaggerating.” Sweetie said looking down at her food. “Can I go now Daddy?” “Yes, just stay out of trouble.” Magnum said sitting back in his chair as Pearl cleared both of their plates. “Sweetie, can I see you in the kitchen really quick?” “Ok Mom.” Sweetie said trotting to the kitchen hanging her head down in shame. Pearl rushed Sweetie Belle to the kitchen. Her mother grabbed a small bag of bits from the kitchen counter and handed them to her daughter. “M-mom what are we d-doing?” “Shhh, Sweetie Belle. Be quiet. Here, there’s 100 bits in this bag, take it and run Sweetie.” Pearl said, hugging Sweetie Belle close. “What? What do you mean? W-won’t Dad come find me?” she asked worriedly. “I’m going straight to the guards, Sweetie. I can’t do this anymore. I can’t stand by while he does these things to you. This vacation was an eye opener, and now I’m gonna set it right. I messed up Sweetie, and I’m sorry.” Pearl hugged her once more before opening the back door, letting her slip into town without her father noticing. “Pearlie, Sweetie, please wash the dishes so I can go take my nap.” Magnum’s voice trailed off as he headed to his room. “Ok, I’ll get right on it.” “Good.” That was the last thing that came from the room as the door closed and silence overtook the house. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Sweetie Belle ran through the streets of Ponyville, avoiding everpony possible. She ran into an alleyway trying to hide from the world. Her vision was bleak as she hid under a box, face stuffed in her hoofs. “P-please, Mom. Please turn him in.” Sweetie Belle laid in that dirty alleyway for several hours. Her throat was dry and rough from crying into her hooves, and muddy water caked her underside. Darkness obscured her vision as she hid under the box. She was sure that it must be late, but the fact that she couldn’t hear a panic of townsfolk looking for her gave her some comfort. It was enough to tell her that he hadn’t found out yet. Getting up and out from under the box she noticed the sun was lower in the sky than before. She had spent the entire day crying under the box. A terrible thought came to her. Oh shoot! It’s already sun down! I don’t even know where I’m going to sleep tonight. Slowly, an idea came over her as she looked around. She was in a long narrow passageway that ended a few feet behind her, leading to a wall. I guess since I’m already here I could just stay here. Looking around she found that there was little in the small alleyway other than a few old trash cans, long since abandoned. This’ll have to do. I can clean up a bit and then I’ll have a little hidden place to live. Sighing, she grabbed a few newspapers and dried off a few of the muddy wet spots before getting to work on the rest of the alleyway. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// -Two hours later- “Done.” Sweetie Belle sighed, sitting back. In the short two hours Sweetie had cleaned up pretty well. The once dirty, wet floors were now littered with old newspapers, currently soaking up the mucky sludge-like water. The walls, once a dirty swampy breeding ground for bacteria, were now a much smoother texture. A medium sized box stood in the middle of the alleyway, and some clean-ish newspapers covered the inside. They provided some protection against the weather. The leaves were only starting to change colors as the winter months started to creep in. The sun had long since gone down and Sweetie was sure that her father would surely go to the guards for help finding her if her mother didn’t turn him in first. Sighing, Sweetie Belle climbed inside her box and closed her eyes, hoping for sleep to take over her world. She was not given such luxury, though, as the cold night air sent chills around her entire body. Shivering, Sweetie Belle looked around desperately, hoping for anything, that would help keep her warm. Why didn’t I bring my blanket? The night went on for several minutes before she heard a can rattle down the alleyway. Ears bolted upwards as she leapt to her hooves, eyes darting around as she scanned the alleyway for the source. She saw nothing down the darkness of the narrow alleyway. Sweetie Belle shifted nervously, and trotting made her way towards the opening of the alley. Darkness poured into her makeshift abode. Every step seemed to resonate each time her little hoof made contact with the street. Please, anything but him, she silently pled to the universe as she continued on. The closer to the alley’s opening she got, the louder her hoofsteps became. The sounds of her steps no longer had the little clip clop that they usually had. Instead, they turned into large exploding booms that echoed for miles. The closer to the end she got, the darker the alleyway seemed to get. She trotted through the darkness and found nothing. There was nothing behind her or in front of her as she trotted slowly through the darkness. After a few intense moments of nothingness, she sighed, relaxing herself. Turning around to head back to her makeshift home she came face to face with the worst nightmare of her dreams. She saw her father, standing in between her and the only comfort she had left. “Well, well, well, who do we have here?” His voice was demonic and loud, instead of the usual raspy and deep. “D-Dad.” Sweetie was beyond frightened. His eyes were no longer the light blue they usually were. They were pitch-black, and the pupils were red as blood. His mane and tail were no longer the usual greyish brown, but another metallic black, just like his eyes. “You really thought you could get away from me didn’t you? That your whore of a mother would protect you!? THAT MY LITTLE WHORE WOULD GET AWAY FROM ME!? YOU’RE NEVER LEAVING ME, YOU SHALL DIE MY WHORE!” He yelled angrily, stepping out of the shadows. The Vision that filled Sweetie’s eyes was one of horror. What once was her father was now a black vision from the depths of Tartarus. “NOW COME HERE YOU LITTLE SLUT!” The final sounds coming out of her mouth was the shriek of terror as the monster approached. Chapter 3: Nightmares come to lifeSweetie Belle woke up with a fright, bolting up erect with fear. Looking around she found that it was just a nightmare. Visibly sighing she sat up, her back Linear with the edges of her box as she yawned. I should have gone and bought food before settling in. Sighing again she let her thoughts drift to what she was going to do for breakfast. Well, it’s still pretty early. I can go out and get some food before coming back. Looking out towards where the sun should be, she noticed that it wasn't even above the buildings around her. They weren’t the largest building in Ponyville as they stood only, roughly, 8 feet tall. Standing she headed towards the opening to the alleyway she called home and looked to where the sun was. Good, it’s still on the horizon. Ok I have about 20 minutes before the Princess raises it fully. Running towards the market plaza she noticed that a few of the ponies were setting up shop, and getting ready to sell. Avoiding Applejack, a pony with a light gambobage coat, light greyish olive mane that was done up into a stylish mane like most other cowgirls, moderate sap green eyes, a brown stetson hat, and (The cutest) white freckles adorned on her face. Sneaking past her Sweetie Went to a few stalls and buying some fresh fruit, and some canned food. It was a new thing to Ponyville but supposedly they were supposed to keep fruit lasting longer, so she bought some. She had gotten everything she needed and was heading back to her little home when she was stopped by the same farmer she had been avoiding all day. “Sweetie Belle! What in lan’s sakes happened to ya!?” Applejack said calling the filly from her stand. “O-oh! Uhhh hi Applejack!” she said nervously, shifting from one hoof to the other. “Sweetie Belle, what happened to ya?” Her question went unheard as Sweetie took off down the street. “Consarn it! get back here!” she yelled, but the scared little filly was already too far and she couldn’t just up and leave her stand. Rounding the corner Sweetie Belle ran into her alleyway knowing full well that the mare wouldn’t follow her. There’s no way she left the stand alone. She’s too smart for that, good thing I have this food. Her thoughts were pulled from her as she saw a rough looking stallion at the entrance of her makeshift home. He was a brown earth pony, his mane was in multiple directions, coat ruffled and dirty while his tail, light purple like his mane and eyes, was covered in, what Sweetie hoped was, mud. “O-oh, h-hello mister, w-what’s your name…?” nervousness filled her voice as she talked. At the sound of the filly the stallion’s ears perked up and he turned to the filly. “Oh, hello. I didn’t think anypony had taken my alley.” there was a slight annoyance noticeable in his voice. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know that anypony lived here already.” Her voice was that of what you would expect from the innocence of a filly her age. Taking a good look at her, his expression softened a bit and he trotted towards her. “Ain’t you a bit young to be braving the streets?” “I-I... I have some problems problems at home.” “Oh? Is it a problem with your parents?” his expression had changed drastically, his heart going out to the filly. “Y-yes. Actually, how’d you know?” she asked in disbelief. “It’s usually these kinds of problems that bother kids. But don’t you think running away is a bit much?” by this time he had taken to sitting next to her. “M-my dad… h-he….” she couldn’t finish her sentence as tears started filling her eyes. “Shhh, it’s ok. I understand.” He pulled her into a hug. She flinched and pulled away at first but leans into and hugs him back after a minute or two. “Shh, shhh. Let it all out.” She just kept crying into his shoulder as they hugged. She noticed he smelled somewhat of trash but ignored the smell emanating from him for the comfort her was providing. It had been years since she had a larger stallion provide her comfort like he was. “E-excuse me m-mister?” “Yes?” He was petting her mane and nuzzling her cheek a little bit. To her it was surprisingly soothing. “W-would you like to have dinner with me?” she asked shifting and pulling out some fresh fruit. Smiling the stallion put her down before pulling up another box. “I’d love to.” Smiling the little filly pulled out some more food items before setting the food down on the table and having a nice breakfast with her newly made friend. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// The two had finished eating and Sweetie had taken to talking to him about everything that was troubling her, and he, about how his life came to where he was. He explained how he got his cutie mark, and how he and his friends would always try wacky things to get them. She in turn would tell him the same things about her adventures with the Cutie Mark Crusaders and how they would always get into trouble. They talked happily for hours the sun making progression all throughout their chat. “-and then, we burnt the rope and fell into the trees. By the time we hit the ground we managed to cover ourselves in tree sap.” Sweetie finished giggling a bit. “Wow, that supersedes any of my adventures by far.” The stallion says laughing at her antics. “You know, when I first saw you enter the alleyway… I was scared. I thought something bad was gonna happen to me.” “That makes sense. I mean I am, a stranger… and to tell you the truth, if you weren’t a filly I would have sent you packing.” the stallion rubbed the back of his neck at the awkward situation. “I can understand that. I mean, this place is pretty well hidden.” Sighing, the stallion stood up. “Thanks for this nice chat Sweetie Belle, But I have to go now.” “Oh, ok. I-it was nice talking to you mr…?” “Dumbluck.” he replied, “My parents had me by, well… dumbluck. Hence the name.” “Nice, to meet you Dumbluck. Like I said, it was nice talking to you.” Sweetie yawned cutely signaling her tiredness. Looking at the sun’s position, Dumbluck took this as his cue to leave. The sun was close to going down, it was already getting close to the edge of the buildings roof. “Goodnight Sweetie Belle, it was nice meeting you.” he said, as he left the alleyway letting the small filly get the everlasting sleep she needed. Yawning Sweetie Belle, threw her groceries into a small box she had set aside. It was cold enough to, hopefully, preserve the food. When the sun was fully down, she slowly climbed into her box and closed her eyes. Sleep had reached her within minutes. Unfortunately for her she would wake up at random moments in the middle of the night. She was having the same dream over and over. She was in her old home, but her father was no where in sight. She kept on going through the house, hesitantly. She found nopony there but still felt a sense that somepony was home. Opening the front door, she fell into the dark void of her dreamscape. She tried to shriek, to scream, to gain help or attention, but she never made a sound. Looking around she didn’t have enough time to understand what’s going to happen when she slammed down, onto the porch of a decent sized two story house. Slowly and hesitantly she knocked on the door. The door opened on its own after a few seconds. Looking inside she found herself looking into a small room. It was perfect for her, white colored walls, pink bed sheet covers, toys all around, a nightstand and dresser, even a small tank for a pet. It was as if somepony had taken her dream room and given it to her. “Beautiful isn’t it, and it’s all yours my little filly.” a strange voice behind her said with a soothing voice. “H-hello?” turning around, she found nopony around her. Just the emptiness of the doorway. “Just say yes, Sweetie Belle. Just say yes,” silence overtook her world as she turned around again. She only saw the stallions outline, as he disappeared into the darkness around him and she shot awake again. “Ugh! Why do I keep having that dream!?” Sweetie Belle whisper shouted and flipped onto her back. Staring up at the ceiling of her box she continued to look into the silent brown cardboard. “So this is my life now… still better than before.” Sighing she stood up and walked out into the septimber night air. She remembered what the story behind the name; Back when Equestria was still new, and only Manehatten was around, they went through a drought. It was a four year drought, the longest in recorded history, it got so bad that eventually they had to wait until the time when the Timberwolves breed to be able to collect trees. Timberwolves were only able to breed when the soil, trees and air was moist. Eventually after some time, the ponies decided they needed a time system better than what they had. So they created the 10 months of the year. Each month had almost 27 days. Sweetie Belle shaked her head, clearing it of all these thoughts. Sighing Sweetie Belle tried going back to sleep. Sleep met sleep perfectly fine this time and she slept all through the night. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Waking up the next morning, she realized something was wrong. She felt herself bouncing up and down. Something else was wrong… she couldn’t see. “Mmm?” she felt herself unable to talk as she continued to bounce. She felt her hoofs tied behind her before she realized something: she was tied and gagged. “Mmm!?” she was starting to get scared. “Well look who’s awake?” she knew that voice all too well, and it terrified her to think about what he would do to her. “Next time you call the guards on me, make sure your mother lives to make it to them.” she felt something make contact with the back of her head before she lost consciousness.
CH:1 (The worst vacation ever)It was late at night in a small town known as Ponyville, all was quiet. There were no ponies in the streets, no animal life, not even the bars were open. In the small town, the lights to every home were off, every home except one. By a small lake on the outskirts of Ponyville lived a small family. The family was like other families, they ate supper together, they sat by the fire when it got chilly and they would go out together for grocery shopping. There was one thing that they had to go through that nopony else in town knew about. The father of this small family was abusive. “Please calm down, Magnum.” Inside of the two story lake-side house were two ponies, a mare and stallion. “Oh so I have to do what you say now!? Fuck you!” The stallion said, throwing a vase at the poor mare named Pearl. Pearl was a pink unicorn mare who loved her husband very much, she always had her doubts and was scared of him when he got angry, but she knew it was all just stress from having to support their family. She always wore clothes on for she loved fashion, but her socks were a different story. When Sweetie belle was only seven years old, she had found out what her husband was doing to Sweetie Belle one night when he left the door unlocked. When she threatened to call the guard he became enraged, and threw a few glass cups and plates on the floor. Soon after he picked up a broken shard of glass and grabbed her, he told her that if she ever told anypony what she saw that he would cut off her cutie marks and feed them to her daughter. Completely terrified her mother agreed and stayed quiet but he wasn’t done, he took the shard and cut a mark square through her cutie mark, a blue dress that sparkled showing her talent of dressmaking. She never thought of speaking to anypony after the pain she had felt and stayed quiet to the day. His name was Magnum, and his cutie mark was three footballs lined up like a triangle. Magnum had never been a violent pony in the past but ever since their second daughter, a small unicorn filly with curly hair and no cutie mark named Sweetie Belle, had been born he started to become distant to his wife. The weeks after Sweetie Belle’s sixth birthday he had gotten worse. He started beating Sweetie Belle for no apparent reason. Soon magnum was ignoring and abusing her verbally, physically, and sexually. Magnum soon stopped caring about what possible things that could happen to him. Then after a few more weeks he decided to take his wife on vacation and, not wanting to raise any suspicions, left Sweetie Belle with her sister Rarity the unicorn, a prissy white unicorn, with three gems as a cutie mark. She was also a fashionista who often dreamed of living and selling her dresses in Canterlot for the most renown ponies of Equestria. Her mane and tail were both a dark shade of purple that curled up, covering one side of her face. Rarity was Magnum and Pearl’s first daughter. They were extremely proud of her, loved her, and cherished her very much. Magnum never thought of doing anything to hurt her, for she was his pride and joy. “Mmmm just a little more blue Fancy Pants,” She mumbled in her sleep as smoke started filling the room, “Mmmm and the smell of smoke.” She said to herself, not realizing what she had said until a few seconds later, “Mmm yes I-WAIT SMOKE!?” She yelled, leaping out of bed and galloping down stairs as fast as she possibly could, falling down at the top step from her speed. “Rarity!” Sweetie Belle yelled from inside the kitchen “Grr you ruined the surprise! I was gonna serve you breakfast in bed!” Sweetie exclaimed stopping her hoof on the ground for good measure. Rarity sighed from the stress. She started marching over to Sweetie Belle with a look that could beat fluttershy’s stare. She was about to let loose on Sweetie Belle before her father interrupted. “Well good morning, Rarity.” He said in the cheery tone he always used whenever he went out. “Father, Mother?” “I’ll have you know that Sweetie Belle here cooked this yummy looking breakfast here all on her own,” He said putting emphasis around the word yummy, “So don't eat it.” He mumbled under his breath. “Uhhh figured,” Rarity said, sniffing one of the cups on the table that had smoke arising from it, “I didn’t know you could burn juice.” “I’ve been giving her lessons. I wouldn’t be surprised if she’s got a cutie mark in fancy cooking by the time we come back from our vacation.” Her mother said with a smile on her face. She knew it was fake and so did Sweetie Belle. They both learned to smile when they were around guests or others inside the family, or else HE would do something to make it come back. Rarity was uncertain if the smiles were real but she kept it to herself. “Vacation? Is that this week!? As in starting this very instant this week!?” Rarity asked worriedly, “Uhh let me guess, applesauce?” Rarity asked again as Sweetie Belle brought a bowl of burnt muck to the table. “Nope, toast.” Sweetie Belle squeaked. “We’re gonna have the bestest time two sisters could ever have. I’m gonna go grab my stuff from dad’s wagon.” Sweetie said, trotting off to her father's wagon. “So, now when you say a week. Is that uhh, hmm, seven whole days?” Rarity asked, very nervous. “And six nights. I know, such a short time to spend with your little sis.” Pearl said putting her right forearm on the table and waving her hoof around. “You gonna eat that?” Magnum asked, pointing to a plates of burnt peaches that could pass as fake moustaches. “But I’ve got such a long todo list. Oh well, I suppose. 'Spend time with your sister' will just have to be added to the list.” Rarity said, pushing the plate of burnt moustache-like peaches to her father and turning her attention to a loud crash that came from the doorway. “Just a few necessities.” Sweetie Belle said closing her eyes and giving a fake smile that could pass for a real one as a few bags and suitcases fell from their precarious spots on the pile. Rarity just smiled nervously, looking back at her parents as they walked outside to a cab that was waiting for them. The four said their goodbyes, Magnum shooting Sweetie Belle a hidden glare, Sweetie knew by now that, that glare meant for her to stay quiet. Sweetie was fighting an internal battle: she could tell somepony about what her father does and possibly suffer the consequences, or keep quiet and let what was happening to her keep happening to her. There was one thing that she knew for sure though… it’s going to be a long week. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// The days went by too fast for Sweetie Belle and she knew that the monster she called father was due to return home today, which made her scared. She didn’t know what to expect, it was her father's first vacation alone with her mother and if it went well then she might not have to be scared for what her dad might do to her at night. Sweetie was waiting with her sister, a fake smile on her face as she hugged Rarity. “I hope Dad’s relaxed for once.” Sweetie murmured under her breath. “What was that Sweetie belle?” “Nothing ,Rarity, just hoping they enjoyed their week alone together.” Sweetie lied as the carriage pulled in front of the house, Magnum and Pearl coming out both with smiles on their faces. “There’s my little filly.” Magnum said with a smile on his face and his arms extended for a hug. Sweetie could tell that there was a hidden meaning to her Dad’s words but she wouldn’t dare say anything, instead she just went up to him and hugged him. Magnum put Sweetie Belle to the side before going and hugging Rarity. “Thanks for taking care of Sweetie Belle this past week.” He said walking away with Pearl before Rarity could voice a response. The three ponies got into the carriage and started heading down the road to their home.As the carriage was pulled to the house not a word was said, they all stayed quiet, Sweetie was thinking and hoping that there vacation had gone well. Magnum was thinking of the terrible vacation they just had and Pearl was thinking of the horrid things that were to come for poor Sweetie Belle. She couldn’t help but re-live the seven days. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// The carriage slowly started leaving Ponyville as the two ponies stared at each other, Magnum was smiling while Pearl was looking away. “What’s wrong honey?” Magnum asked looking genuinely concerned for the first time in years. “N-nothing, dear.” Pearl said giving an extremely fake smile. “You know I don’t like it when you lie to me.” Magnum said his smile fading and a glare taking its place. “I’m sorry dear, I’m just, I’m worried about Sweetie Belle. What’s she gonna grow up to be, living like this? I’m just I don’t want her to grow up feeling that the world hates her.” “So you’re still thinking about that little whore, even on our vacation. How about you just forget about the little bitch and enjoy yourself for once.” He said completely vexed. “But she’s my daughter and... and I want you to stop doing what you’re doing!” Pearl Shouted out of a surge courageousness as the carriage pulled through the streets of Fillydelphia. “I don’t know what you’re talking about dear, I’m not doing anything to her. Let’s just enjoy our vacation, in fact ,driver, can you stop the carriage in fillydelphia?” “Uhh, yes, sir” The brown earth pony with a carriage cutie mark said, in a rough, scratchy voice. “Thank you, and I’m sure you’ll be happy to know that you’ll get an extra twenty five bits to keep our personal life personal. Correct?” “Yes, sir.” “I’m sure you will, now we have an hour before we arrive, let’s just relax for a little bit. What do you say, Pearl?” “Umm, sure, honey.” Pearl slowly and hesitantly leaned into Magnums awaiting arms. “Just wait until we get to Fillydelphia, honey[i/].” Magnum whispered in Pearl’s ear. That’s when Pearl felt the actuality behind his action as his grip constricted around her throat, and soon she started falling unconscious from the lack of Oxygen. When Pearl woke up again, she felt terrible. She had a ball gag in her mouth and she felt like something had been done to her that she never wanted to do, then it hit her. Like a pile of bricks crashing down from the heavens, it hit her, what her husband did. She couldn't believe it but she had to, he had done it before, but never like this, never in the one spot she always pleaded him not to. The one spot where she did her business, where she thought he would be at least considerate enough to avoid, but he didnt. What made matters worse was that her fetlocks were tied to the bed posts, so she had no way out of her situation. He had her, he could do whatever he wanted to her, and she couldn't do anything even if she wanted to do something, she had no say in the matter, unlike before when she could at least plead him to go down another route. “Well, well, well... my little slut is awake.” “Magnum please l-let me go.” Pearlie cried. She knew it was hopeless but she had hope that it would work. “Oh, you don’t like being my little slut. Guess the little whore is going to have to take your place.” “No, wait...! I’ll do it,” Pearlie sighed one last sigh before muttering her final thoughts for the week, “This is going to be a long vacation.”
CH:2 (The run)Her flashback ended as the carriage pulled up to the curb of their house, and they stepped off. Pearl was scared, extremely scared. She was scared not only for herself but mostly for poor Sweetie Belle. The vacation had taken a bad turn when they were half way through when a maid came in and caught her crying, while he plowed her. Shocked at the sight, the maid decided to call the guards to have him arrested. However, when they arrived Pearl lied and told them that it was her first time having a stallion in her unbloomed flower. Pearl snapped back to reality as they entered the living room. She quickly ran into the restroom to try to clean herself up after the trip. -Meanwhile in the living room- “Dad, d-did you have a great vacation?” “We sure did. Did you have a great time with Rarity, or was she having trouble keeping your whore legs closed?” Sweetie’s father said with a surprisingly beatific voice as he sat down on the couch. “N-no Daddy, she didn’t have any trouble keeping my little whore legs closed.” Sweetie said forlornly as her father patted his lap, signaling for her to jump on. “Daddy, c-can we at least wait until after dinner?” “What was that?” Her father asked, his face now showing concern in lieu of his once radiant expression. Sweetie Belle thought about what her father would do to her if he was truly angry with her. So she decided to jump onto his lap. “N-nothing dad.” She then steadied herself on his lap, readying herself for the pain she knew was coming. She was surprised when he did nothing. “What? You expect me to tire myself with a filly whore, when we have guests coming?” “N-no Dad I d-don’t.” “Maybe I should, and just send you to bed without any dinner. Aside from that, what am I gonna feed you now that you got me all hot and bothered?” Magnum spat out the question like it was venom. He placed Sweetie Belle on her two hind legs and exposed himself to his daughter . “D-do I have to?” “Do I have to hit you again!?” “O-ok Dad…” //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// -Several minutes later- Sweetie Belle was crying, trying to forget what happened, when a thought crossed her head. She could run away. Run away and be done with her father, be done with him for good. She knew it was only a dream. He would find her, no matter where she ran, no matter where she hid. He would find her, and kill her. But this was the only chance she had to escape into the night and she knew it. She also knew that she wouldn’t last long living here either way. It was now or never. Either she runs away and has the possibility of finding a new home; or stays where she’s at and lets her father have his way with her for the rest of her life. She thought about this for several minutes before slowly succumbing to sleep. -The next morning- Sweetie Belle woke up to the sound of arguing. Something was different though. This argument wasn’t about herself… it was about Rarity. “Because Rarity wasn’t a whore! Nor was she worthless!” Magnum yelled at Pearl. “Sweetie Belle is not a whore! Or worthless!” Pearl yelled back. This was Pearl’s first time yelling back at Magnum. She didn't enjoy yelling, nor did she ever support anypony yelling, but she had to make a stand for Sweetie Belle. “Only a whore would fuck their father!” Magnum yelled, clearly angered. “You force her to fuck you!” “That’s it!” Magnum screamed at his wife. He raised his hoof and brought it down, a large smacking noise emanating from her cheek as trickles of blood flowed out of her mouth. Her vision started blurring and she fell to the ground unconscious as the world through her eyes went black. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// When Pearl came to she found that she was now in her room. The curtains were drawn and the room was engulfed in darkness. She was inside her bed, made up as if she wasn't in the bed at all. Trotting out of her room she found that night had passed and Celestia’s sun was high over the horizon. As she came into the kitchen she heard voices coming from the dining room. “So what are you going to do today, Sweetie?” she heard Magnum ask. “I was planning on going out with my friends. Is that ok dad?” Sweetie asked hopefully. “I think it’s alright. What do you plan on doing with your friends?” Magnum inquired. “We’re just going to go searching for our cutie marks. Is that ok?” Sweetie squeaked. “Just don't break anything. I'm still angry about that whole Hearts and Hooves Day fiasco.” Magnum said taking another bite of the pancakes. “How do you like the pancakes?” “They’re good dad, thanks.” Sweetie said taking another bite. “Good morning.” She said trotting into the room. “Hi Pearlie. Sleep well?” Magnum asked with a smile. “More or less. What about you? It didn’t look like you came in the room last night.” “Oh, I spent the night with Sweetie Belle after our guests left last night.” He said with a toothy grin. “Oh, ok well… How about you Sweetie Belle? How was your sleep?” Pearl asked, concerned. “It was… a rough night.” Sweetie said looking away, not meeting the eyes of her mother. “Oh, come now Sweetie Belle. It wasn’t that bad,” Magnum said, smirking. “I know Dad. I’m just exaggerating.” Sweetie said looking down at her food. “Can I go now Daddy?” “Yes, just stay out of trouble.” Magnum said sitting back in his chair as Pearl cleared both of their plates. “Sweetie, can I see you in the kitchen really quick?” “Ok Mom.” Sweetie said trotting to the kitchen hanging her head down in shame. Pearl rushed Sweetie Belle to the kitchen. Her mother grabbed a small bag of bits from the kitchen counter and handed them to her daughter. “M-mom what are we d-doing?” “Shhh, Sweetie Belle. Be quiet. Here, there’s 100 bits in this bag, take it and run Sweetie.” Pearl said, hugging Sweetie Belle close. “What? What do you mean? W-won’t Dad come find me?” she asked worriedly. “I’m going straight to the guards, Sweetie. I can’t do this anymore. I can’t stand by while he does these things to you. This vacation was an eye opener, and now I’m gonna set it right. I messed up Sweetie, and I’m sorry.” Pearl hugged her once more before opening the back door, letting her slip into town without her father noticing. “Pearlie, Sweetie, please wash the dishes so I can go take my nap.” Magnum’s voice trailed off as he headed to his room. “Ok, I’ll get right on it.” “Good.” That was the last thing that came from the room as the door closed and silence overtook the house. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Sweetie Belle ran through the streets of Ponyville, avoiding everpony possible. She ran into an alleyway trying to hide from the world. Her vision was bleak as she hid under a box, face stuffed in her hoofs. “P-please, Mom. Please turn him in.” Sweetie Belle laid in that dirty alleyway for several hours. Her throat was dry and rough from crying into her hooves, and muddy water caked her underside. Darkness obscured her vision as she hid under the box. She was sure that it must be late, but the fact that she couldn’t hear a panic of townsfolk looking for her gave her some comfort. It was enough to tell her that he hadn’t found out yet. Getting up and out from under the box she noticed the sun was lower in the sky than before. She had spent the entire day crying under the box. A terrible thought came to her. Oh shoot! It’s already sun down! I don’t even know where I’m going to sleep tonight. Slowly, an idea came over her as she looked around. She was in a long narrow passageway that ended a few feet behind her, leading to a wall. I guess since I’m already here I could just stay here. Looking around she found that there was little in the small alleyway other than a few old trash cans, long since abandoned. This’ll have to do. I can clean up a bit and then I’ll have a little hidden place to live. Sighing, she grabbed a few newspapers and dried off a few of the muddy wet spots before getting to work on the rest of the alleyway. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// -Two hours later- “Done.” Sweetie Belle sighed, sitting back. In the short two hours Sweetie had cleaned up pretty well. The once dirty, wet floors were now littered with old newspapers, currently soaking up the mucky sludge-like water. The walls, once a dirty swampy breeding ground for bacteria, were now a much smoother texture. A medium sized box stood in the middle of the alleyway, and some clean-ish newspapers covered the inside. They provided some protection against the weather. The leaves were only starting to change colors as the winter months started to creep in. The sun had long since gone down and Sweetie was sure that her father would surely go to the guards for help finding her if her mother didn’t turn him in first. Sighing, Sweetie Belle climbed inside her box and closed her eyes, hoping for sleep to take over her world. She was not given such luxury, though, as the cold night air sent chills around her entire body. Shivering, Sweetie Belle looked around desperately, hoping for anything, that would help keep her warm. Why didn’t I bring my blanket? The night went on for several minutes before she heard a can rattle down the alleyway. Ears bolted upwards as she leapt to her hooves, eyes darting around as she scanned the alleyway for the source. She saw nothing down the darkness of the narrow alleyway. Sweetie Belle shifted nervously, and trotting made her way towards the opening of the alley. Darkness poured into her makeshift abode. Every step seemed to resonate each time her little hoof made contact with the street. Please, anything but him, she silently pled to the universe as she continued on. The closer to the alley’s opening she got, the louder her hoofsteps became. The sounds of her steps no longer had the little clip clop that they usually had. Instead, they turned into large exploding booms that echoed for miles. The closer to the end she got, the darker the alleyway seemed to get. She trotted through the darkness and found nothing. There was nothing behind her or in front of her as she trotted slowly through the darkness. After a few intense moments of nothingness, she sighed, relaxing herself. Turning around to head back to her makeshift home she came face to face with the worst nightmare of her dreams. She saw her father, standing in between her and the only comfort she had left. “Well, well, well, who do we have here?” His voice was demonic and loud, instead of the usual raspy and deep. “D-Dad.” Sweetie was beyond frightened. His eyes were no longer the light blue they usually were. They were pitch-black, and the pupils were red as blood. His mane and tail were no longer the usual greyish brown, but another metallic black, just like his eyes. “You really thought you could get away from me didn’t you? That your whore of a mother would protect you!? THAT MY LITTLE WHORE WOULD GET AWAY FROM ME!? YOU’RE NEVER LEAVING ME, YOU SHALL DIE MY WHORE!” He yelled angrily, stepping out of the shadows. The Vision that filled Sweetie’s eyes was one of horror. What once was her father was now a black vision from the depths of Tartarus. “NOW COME HERE YOU LITTLE SLUT!” The final sounds coming out of her mouth was the shriek of terror as the monster approached.
Chapter 3: Nightmares come to lifeSweetie Belle woke up with a fright, bolting up erect with fear. Looking around she found that it was just a nightmare. Visibly sighing she sat up, her back Linear with the edges of her box as she yawned. I should have gone and bought food before settling in. Sighing again she let her thoughts drift to what she was going to do for breakfast. Well, it’s still pretty early. I can go out and get some food before coming back. Looking out towards where the sun should be, she noticed that it wasn't even above the buildings around her. They weren’t the largest building in Ponyville as they stood only, roughly, 8 feet tall. Standing she headed towards the opening to the alleyway she called home and looked to where the sun was. Good, it’s still on the horizon. Ok I have about 20 minutes before the Princess raises it fully. Running towards the market plaza she noticed that a few of the ponies were setting up shop, and getting ready to sell. Avoiding Applejack, a pony with a light gambobage coat, light greyish olive mane that was done up into a stylish mane like most other cowgirls, moderate sap green eyes, a brown stetson hat, and (The cutest) white freckles adorned on her face. Sneaking past her Sweetie Went to a few stalls and buying some fresh fruit, and some canned food. It was a new thing to Ponyville but supposedly they were supposed to keep fruit lasting longer, so she bought some. She had gotten everything she needed and was heading back to her little home when she was stopped by the same farmer she had been avoiding all day. “Sweetie Belle! What in lan’s sakes happened to ya!?” Applejack said calling the filly from her stand. “O-oh! Uhhh hi Applejack!” she said nervously, shifting from one hoof to the other. “Sweetie Belle, what happened to ya?” Her question went unheard as Sweetie took off down the street. “Consarn it! get back here!” she yelled, but the scared little filly was already too far and she couldn’t just up and leave her stand. Rounding the corner Sweetie Belle ran into her alleyway knowing full well that the mare wouldn’t follow her. There’s no way she left the stand alone. She’s too smart for that, good thing I have this food. Her thoughts were pulled from her as she saw a rough looking stallion at the entrance of her makeshift home. He was a brown earth pony, his mane was in multiple directions, coat ruffled and dirty while his tail, light purple like his mane and eyes, was covered in, what Sweetie hoped was, mud. “O-oh, h-hello mister, w-what’s your name…?” nervousness filled her voice as she talked. At the sound of the filly the stallion’s ears perked up and he turned to the filly. “Oh, hello. I didn’t think anypony had taken my alley.” there was a slight annoyance noticeable in his voice. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know that anypony lived here already.” Her voice was that of what you would expect from the innocence of a filly her age. Taking a good look at her, his expression softened a bit and he trotted towards her. “Ain’t you a bit young to be braving the streets?” “I-I... I have some problems problems at home.” “Oh? Is it a problem with your parents?” his expression had changed drastically, his heart going out to the filly. “Y-yes. Actually, how’d you know?” she asked in disbelief. “It’s usually these kinds of problems that bother kids. But don’t you think running away is a bit much?” by this time he had taken to sitting next to her. “M-my dad… h-he….” she couldn’t finish her sentence as tears started filling her eyes. “Shhh, it’s ok. I understand.” He pulled her into a hug. She flinched and pulled away at first but leans into and hugs him back after a minute or two. “Shh, shhh. Let it all out.” She just kept crying into his shoulder as they hugged. She noticed he smelled somewhat of trash but ignored the smell emanating from him for the comfort her was providing. It had been years since she had a larger stallion provide her comfort like he was. “E-excuse me m-mister?” “Yes?” He was petting her mane and nuzzling her cheek a little bit. To her it was surprisingly soothing. “W-would you like to have dinner with me?” she asked shifting and pulling out some fresh fruit. Smiling the stallion put her down before pulling up another box. “I’d love to.” Smiling the little filly pulled out some more food items before setting the food down on the table and having a nice breakfast with her newly made friend. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// The two had finished eating and Sweetie had taken to talking to him about everything that was troubling her, and he, about how his life came to where he was. He explained how he got his cutie mark, and how he and his friends would always try wacky things to get them. She in turn would tell him the same things about her adventures with the Cutie Mark Crusaders and how they would always get into trouble. They talked happily for hours the sun making progression all throughout their chat. “-and then, we burnt the rope and fell into the trees. By the time we hit the ground we managed to cover ourselves in tree sap.” Sweetie finished giggling a bit. “Wow, that supersedes any of my adventures by far.” The stallion says laughing at her antics. “You know, when I first saw you enter the alleyway… I was scared. I thought something bad was gonna happen to me.” “That makes sense. I mean I am, a stranger… and to tell you the truth, if you weren’t a filly I would have sent you packing.” the stallion rubbed the back of his neck at the awkward situation. “I can understand that. I mean, this place is pretty well hidden.” Sighing, the stallion stood up. “Thanks for this nice chat Sweetie Belle, But I have to go now.” “Oh, ok. I-it was nice talking to you mr…?” “Dumbluck.” he replied, “My parents had me by, well… dumbluck. Hence the name.” “Nice, to meet you Dumbluck. Like I said, it was nice talking to you.” Sweetie yawned cutely signaling her tiredness. Looking at the sun’s position, Dumbluck took this as his cue to leave. The sun was close to going down, it was already getting close to the edge of the buildings roof. “Goodnight Sweetie Belle, it was nice meeting you.” he said, as he left the alleyway letting the small filly get the everlasting sleep she needed. Yawning Sweetie Belle, threw her groceries into a small box she had set aside. It was cold enough to, hopefully, preserve the food. When the sun was fully down, she slowly climbed into her box and closed her eyes. Sleep had reached her within minutes. Unfortunately for her she would wake up at random moments in the middle of the night. She was having the same dream over and over. She was in her old home, but her father was no where in sight. She kept on going through the house, hesitantly. She found nopony there but still felt a sense that somepony was home. Opening the front door, she fell into the dark void of her dreamscape. She tried to shriek, to scream, to gain help or attention, but she never made a sound. Looking around she didn’t have enough time to understand what’s going to happen when she slammed down, onto the porch of a decent sized two story house. Slowly and hesitantly she knocked on the door. The door opened on its own after a few seconds. Looking inside she found herself looking into a small room. It was perfect for her, white colored walls, pink bed sheet covers, toys all around, a nightstand and dresser, even a small tank for a pet. It was as if somepony had taken her dream room and given it to her. “Beautiful isn’t it, and it’s all yours my little filly.” a strange voice behind her said with a soothing voice. “H-hello?” turning around, she found nopony around her. Just the emptiness of the doorway. “Just say yes, Sweetie Belle. Just say yes,” silence overtook her world as she turned around again. She only saw the stallions outline, as he disappeared into the darkness around him and she shot awake again. “Ugh! Why do I keep having that dream!?” Sweetie Belle whisper shouted and flipped onto her back. Staring up at the ceiling of her box she continued to look into the silent brown cardboard. “So this is my life now… still better than before.” Sighing she stood up and walked out into the septimber night air. She remembered what the story behind the name; Back when Equestria was still new, and only Manehatten was around, they went through a drought. It was a four year drought, the longest in recorded history, it got so bad that eventually they had to wait until the time when the Timberwolves breed to be able to collect trees. Timberwolves were only able to breed when the soil, trees and air was moist. Eventually after some time, the ponies decided they needed a time system better than what they had. So they created the 10 months of the year. Each month had almost 27 days. Sweetie Belle shaked her head, clearing it of all these thoughts. Sighing Sweetie Belle tried going back to sleep. Sleep met sleep perfectly fine this time and she slept all through the night. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Waking up the next morning, she realized something was wrong. She felt herself bouncing up and down. Something else was wrong… she couldn’t see. “Mmm?” she felt herself unable to talk as she continued to bounce. She felt her hoofs tied behind her before she realized something: she was tied and gagged. “Mmm!?” she was starting to get scared. “Well look who’s awake?” she knew that voice all too well, and it terrified her to think about what he would do to her. “Next time you call the guards on me, make sure your mother lives to make it to them.” she felt something make contact with the back of her head before she lost consciousness.
