Heroic Perceptionby StarRibbonChaptersFeathered DiamondA Rotten Apple CoreA Diamond's ResolveBatterieFeathered DiamondI have a desire. Everypony does at one point or another, but this was different. I can't adequately tell anypony what I desire. It was almost unattainable. Leading ponies maybe my ability, but my desire was far from it. Or maybe it was closer to it. Being in the background, following a lead...that felt normal. Leading a pony never had felt so normal until she helped interpret my cutie mark, that is. She made my interpretation and she gave me my mark-I only had her to thank for it. It was a new light; and I suppose that light got tainted later on. With my emblazoned flank adorned with a tiara came a perspective I only gave to her. Now she'll see a side I didn't want her, or anypony, to see, but more her than not. My mane was an atrocity! I trotted to the bathroom and quickly brushed out my mane while I had time to. She wouldn't mind my disheveled mess of a mane, but it would look flawed. I didn't want to look flawed, not in front of her. She deserved the world. She deserved so much more than what she had gotten. "Madam Tiara!" The butler bowed slightly after entering the room. His golden coat shimmering as the afternoon light hit. He glowed like a bulb. A mane with a few different shades of gold made it horrifyingly worse. I turn away from him. "Baroness Scatenata of House Pirouette came to greet you on this fine afternoon. Shall I let her in?" She deserved anything but what she had to receive. She didn't deserve the pony she was stuck with. She didn't deserve the insensitive pony that helped her earn her life's place. She is everything right in this tarturus given world. Why would fate hand her the cards given? Why had fate given her to Apple Bloom? She clearly didn't own Applejack's honesty. If she had, she wouldn't have slept with most of the mares in her class. There were few ponies that didn't apply to, naturally that being Silver and I. Oddly, it also included Apple Bloom's marefriend. Not that message mare, Dinky, but the most precious mare I ever laid my eyes on. She is the softest pony I ever had the chance to meet as a filly; quiet and kind. She had a backbone surprisingly, open and honest. Before the Elements of Harmony were created, I wouldn't have doubted she was the the harmony in question. Why would she want me, whether romantically or not? After all, I am but a feathered diamond; a diamond feathered by pressure. Still, even I, this feathered diamond, saw the truth. Scatenata didn't deserve that whorse of a marefriend. Although she had a marefriend, I will do anything for her. A broken diamond, after all, has its place. She is that place. "Madam Tiara?" The Butler called again. I tilted my head. I forgotten to answer. "Let her in!" I called. I wasn't prepared; Scatenata hugged my waist immediately upon hearing my approval. Her tears staining my pink coat. She was the mess this time. She was beautiful, to say the least. I grew suspicious as to why her mark wasn't for being a model. Her form filled to a frame only fit for one: lithe and small, like a delicate doll or a ballerina in a music box. Her orange coat had to be the softest, the best traded silks and cloths hadn't matched her fur. It didn't help that her feathers felt warm and welcoming. Maybe, just one day, I'd ask her for her feathers that she had to remove. Sleeping with a pillow made with those welcoming feathers would remove any nightmare I will ever get. I rub her back, my hooves just gracing her wings. They gave me a high that I wish I could contain better. I almost buried my head into her violet, tangled mane. It was so long; thick with fluffiness I think Pirouette had to take hours to create. It wasn't Pinkie Pie fluff, nor curled like Rarity. It had its own charm. I stopped myself, instead, I paid her my attention instead of feeding my heart. "Nata?" I rubbed her back. I shiver as ecstasy raced through my veins. "Nata, are you okay?" Sniffle. "I..I'm fine, really." She whimpered softly. I removed myself from her form, parts of me wishing I hadn't. Her purple eyes glimmered with tears. Even when depressed, she looked like an angel. I cupped her chin. "I'm..fine..." I glared before she shrinks back, a blush painting her orange cheeks a bright red. "I'm not..." "You've known me for years, " I began carefully. I can't help but to stare at her. Those captivating eyes..."You're lying. You're a terrible liar when you're upset." I start frowning. A pit in my stomach forms with jagged rocks that sink to the bottom. Constriction takes place when I breathe. Apple Bloom had a hoof in this. It was a happenstance waiting to transpire. I sigh. Scatenata was always a forgiving pony. Ignoring pony, if anything. Naive, perhaps, the better term. My heart beat was quicker than anticipated. My teeth grinding against each other. I didn't need to ask. I never had to. It was nice to get confirmation, though. "Did she hurt you?" She looked away, tears threatening to fall again. Nod. "Did she cheat on you?" Nod again. Apple Bloom wasn't making anything easy, anymore. "Who was it?" Scatenata looked at me. I bit my lip, ignoring the wave of pain it brought. It never mattered. She turned away again. "Nata!" "Dinky," She said flatly. Her eyes just kept to the floor the whole time. I nuzzled her as she squeaked in surprise. Many ponies don't see Scatenata like I do; she doesn't show very often. If she decided to pop up, she'd cower away. The limelight and the attention weren't suited for a metal worker like herself. Then again, most ponies wouldn't recognize her, or if they had, they certainly would make it a spectacle. Despite always being Scatenata, ponies would see it otherwise. Scatenata wasn't Scatenata in crowds, after all. Scatenata was Scootaloo in the crowds; Scootaloo is Rainbow Dash reincarnate, a shy pony as she would certainly attract attention when they act out of character. Though, was that really a character when Scootaloo was the character, instead? Especially when you know something so personal like that? No, especially for me. They wouldn't believe me, a pony just reformed from a pony I knew as a fake persona. They won't believe the pony that lied my way into helping them, for my goal wasn't always to be a good pony. I was always a good pony. At the same time, I was always a good actress, but for her, I would help her find her mark even if it was a lie. Although she doesn't love me in all her forms, it didn't matter to me. "Don't ever cry like this again, you hear me?" I whisper softly. Her body tensed. "I'll make sure she understands what she did. Perfectly. I have a desire. Everypony had a desire. Mine didn't match my cutie mark, or perhaps it did by chance. Either way, my desire is currently broken. I have to fix that desire. I will fix her broken gem. This feathered diamond will do anything to fix it. After all, I am her feathered diamond and I'll do anything to fix her feathers before they grow too big. Author's Note Feathered Diamonds are diamonds with small, microscopic cracks that have a feather outline. The durability isn't affected as long as it doesn't run too deep. A Rotten Apple CoreI felt like a rotten apple the moment I accepted my cutie mark. As a filly, my cutie mark expedition was my all; my world and my escape from the farm. I love my farm and everything on it, from the bright red apples to the animals that lived there, every bit of it screamed "home". The farm wasn't enough, though. I needed more than the farm. The repetitive motions, the daily chores, they felt..they felt too boring when there is, obviously, so much more out to discover! It started out small; I wasn't aware of it then, but now when I look back, I understand where it began. It started when Nightmare Moon captured Princess Celestia. Back then, it was a scary experience; the notion of being trapped against your will was unbelievably terrifying. Just the thought of going into pure darkness was a new experience I couldn't fathom at the time. Everything chances over time, of course. I kept looking back, the pictures of the reformed Luna was odd to me. I couldn't pinpoint why. However, despite the seed being sown, it hadn't grown. Then I met her. Scootaloo was an outrageous pony. Daring, bash...Rainbow Dash levels of crazy. She liked the dirt, the grime, the ability to do just about anything at the expense of, well, life. It was something positively beyond boring. While the others had adventures, I couldn't help but feel angry at it. Fluttershy facing a dragon? That would have been amazing to see! But alas, I was labeled a 'filly', of course. When the days grew, so did other portions. I rationalize my anger towards my farming community; the dull thuds of apples falling never grated on me until I kept sensing all the wonders I was missing. Granny Smith's stories only enhanced the battle. The Apple Farm wasn't for me, I realized. It never would be, despite my family tradition. That hurt the most. Then she kept making me change. I developed something short of a crush after our first camping trip. She was a mystery to me before then; I thought she was just a one note pony. Very impulsive, one note, if anything. However, despite seeing her scared millions of times prior, she was different. She was horrified over something; she'd later admit it was over upsetting Dash but I swear there was more to those horrified eyes than that. They held a secret to unlock. I wanted to unlock it. Once we gained our marks-a shield with a different marking in each, it confirmed my fears. It wasn't apple related. I wasn't meant for the farm. In a way, the validation was a relief. My exploration ended but sating it hadn't. I needed a relief. I still had something pulling me towards Scootaloo and it kept growing as she kept going near me. Her bumps and nudges, her hugs and her animated speeches were captivating. I imagined many activities for her. It was when I realized why Luna's reformation stuck with me the longest despite many ponies having reformations. Starlight was the latest reformation yet. I couldn't stop shivering; I couldn't accept it at the time. It was beyond normal. It was anything but normal. I loved the idea of dominating a pony in the same way as Nightmare Moon. It was so close and personal; a pony controlling your every movement. I know I can't in the same fashion, but I came so close to it. Every fantasy played out the same way and ended the same way. I would dominate Scootaloo, force her into submission- but she would agree. I dreamed of just cornering her in the way Nightmare must have done so for Luna. It would become painful to think about. I tried numerous avenues, only one actually sating the desire, but it wasn't by much. At least, wasn't by much in my standards. I couldn't say the same about Dinky or Alula. Was that 10? 20? The number only grew as I raise ranks in Ponyville High. With the Canterlot nobles and the numerous ponies experimenting, it felt like a nice avenue. Trenderhoof started the trend and it hadn't seemed to end lately, now fillies and colts want the more "commoner" life when they visited. To the fillies, I happily obliged. However, it wasn't her, so I wasn't satisfied. Scootaloo was a tough apple to buck off the tree. Took more than just dating her to get the fruit. It fills a relief, so I'm hardly bored. It gives a challenge; just dating her doesn't mean much in terms of fulfilling this rotten core's desire. As daring as that mare was, she was terrified of many things. Sex was just the sprinkles on the sundae. Too bad it made her more desirable. I only just recently got a taste, and that taste wasn't an easy fight to get to. It had been only a day ago and she refuses to look my way. I lick myself clean from my latest venture, Dinky. Dinky wouldn't get up this time around. Twilight had an invention, and for what it was worth, I needed a few mares to test it on. I didn't exactly know what it was, but Dinky loved the thrill of discovering it. Being taught under Twilight, she discovered healing magic. Her love of this magic fueled experiments. Dinky loved experiments, and love experiments were her favorite as of late. "Dinky?" I called out. Dinky didn't move for a moment. Panic swelled at the base of my stomach. I nudged her, deciding to take to time in cleaning her. Her eyes fluttered open to reveal those yellow orbs I admire. A small smile formed at the base as she shook. "You alright there?" Nod. "More than fine," Dinky concluded, stretching her limbs. With a small smirk, she pushed me playfully. "Twist will adore those tricks, hopefully." I nod, hoping she'd ignore my bubbling panic. I don't like hearing other mares. The repercussions I might face are bigger than I can face at this moment. Hopefully that won't show through. "She'll like it. I'm sure." "Mmhum..'She hummed, turning away slightly. "This invention seems a bit strange, don't you think?" I tilt my head, scrunching my nose in the process. "Hhm..? How?" I frown. "It looks like something Twilight would make. Nothing new." Dinky jabbed it with a hoof before settling it in my bag. "There has to be a catch somewhere, Bloom. Twilight doesn't make sex toys. I doubt she feels the need to try something like that." The idea Twilight knew about sex was unsettling. I can't unsee that. I decided to shrug it off instead. "It can't be much. Its Twilight, remember?" Dinky sighed out before grabbing her saddle bags. "Just..be careful with it, okay?" Dinky grew stern. There was something in those eyes that made me second guess something. She had a ray of knowledge on this subject, but I can't pinpoint what she's holding out. Instead of questioning her logic, I nodded. My mouth can't form words at this point. Stupid mouth. Dinky gave me a quick nuzzle before trotting to Twilight's castle. If my theory is correct, then she will be currently researching the latest spell she found earlier. I sigh, leaning back against the barn's walls. They were secure walls. It didn't feel like infidelity when I was surrounded by the walls. My head drifts upward as I feel myself slipping into the bliss of security. "APPLE BLOOM!" Or not. My head immediately darted towards the sounds of crashes. When my eyes widen, I saw the culprit. It was an odd sight despite it all: Diamond Tiara seemed too refined for the farm life. "What's up?" I nearly tremble. Diamond Tiara has had the fancy to show up after her performance a few days ago. This time Sweetie Belle came along. "We need to talk." A Diamond's ResolveThe smell of musk first hit me before anything else had a chance to. It was a strong aroma-nauseating, if anything. It smelt like stallion without the stallion. I shake my head. There wasn't time to ponder Apple Bloom's gender. I am livid and that's how I'll continue acting. "Apple Bloom, what in the name of tarturus are you doing?!" Apple Bloom lowered herself. She immediately realized that wasn't a sane idea as she simply shook beneath my gaze. I nearly smirked at that-if I had done this as a filly, I would have shown more than enough glee. I'm tempted to show how happy I am, but I feel like being the bigger pony for now. I could show sadistic glee later. Sigh. "Nothin', nothin' that would constitute your intervention," Apple Bloom had the gull to spit. I nearly growl at her. No need to get into a heated argument at this point in time. I sighed out. Relax, don't stoop to her level. "It requires my intervention. It always does, whether you like it or not." I pointed towards the barn in question, despite being in it. My arm silently moves to point in all directions. Certainly I was not being frantic. Not at all. "You may not see it like I do, but she's been hurting. Hurting real hard because of manure you've been pulling." Apple Bloom eyed Sweetie Belle cautiously. I can tell she was looking for something from her. Sympathy? Some sort of minor retribution? Sweetie Belle bit, pausing and refusing to eye Apple Bloom. Her face scrunched up for a moment, her mouth forming unspoken words. Once she found her voice, she turned to me. Years ago, I might have scoffed at her. But that was then and this is now. Sweetie and I had an unspoken agreement that I hardly understood for a moment myself. Sweetie hadn't known her quite as long as I; that was a given. Scatenata moved here 2 years after I first met her-while being in school, it was a tremulous period. She met Sweetie Belle when she moved. To this day, I still don't understand how Scatenata managed to hide in such a small crevice. At the same time, Sweetie Belle saw a side I was the only one able to see until that point. She didn't understand it at first; she was freaked out by the notion. She grew calmer about it the longer she managed to know her.It helped that Sweetie Belle worked for a hospital, part time now. Apple Bloom couldn't possibly understand Scatenata's situation. Celestia knows why Fate decided to give her Scatenata's card. Whether Sweetie and I are her friends has little to do with debating the behavior Apple Bloom displays. It wasn't up for debate, anyway. News was spread around by this time. Small towns always had easy rumors spread. It was a given. The only saving grace that we could sense happened to be Scatenata having little to no information spread about her. They hadn't known how close Apple Bloom and Scatenata were just yet. I lowered my head to face her. If only I hadn't dwindled my time. Scatenata wasn't an open book for many ponies. Nobility was her status; not many Ponyvillians understood how confidential that can be. They weren't nobility. They hadn't much on the line. Scatenata? More than anypony could possibly imagine. My gut twisted. I knew exactly what she has to lose. To see somepony, unintentionally or not, take advantage of it, sickened me. I shook, only glancing at Sweetie Belle as she tapped my arm. I released myself. No need to get as angry as that. She wasn't worth it. "I'm sorry.." Scatenata hiccuped softly. Her small hooves didn't hurt. She was too small to do an earth pony damage-whether it was to an adult or a filly like me. Her mane was so long at the time-she couldn't see past it without tripping over her bangs. While enduring this was, it only covered what I needed to see. "I'm..sorry for wasting your time...Miss..." I gave a half smile. "Diamond. Diamond Tiara. Don't worry about formals. My parents aren't here, certainly the butlers aren't either. Just address me informally for now." I pushed her bangs away. Something didn't click with me right then and there- I wasn't old enough to see the extent of the damage myself. Or-maybe that wasn't it. I easily saw the extent. That wasn't it. I didn't see, however, the extent of the invisible markings. I didn't understand why all the wounds were focused just below the base of the tail as they were. A filly wouldn't understand; a filly like me couldn't understand. She did, of course. To an extent. She was just as oblivious as I. Still, that didn't mean much to me at that time. I had to clean her up. Pulling away, I reached for peroxide and some bandages. Her eyes widened at that point. I could feel the room thicken in fear. I just shook my head, a small smile threatening to take precedence. "It will hurt a bit, but it'll help. Trust me." "Dia and I...we know what you did..." Sweetie Belle said with carefulness I envied. She kicked the barn dirt, fidgeting as the tension only grew. My heart grew heavy, pushing against my chest. "You can't keep on with this, Bloom...You just can't." "You're not in love with her, are you?" I flinch as the accusation came from my mouth. It was uncalled for, I know. I didn't stop myself. Sweetie Belle's eyes widen at the prospect, her mouth agape. "Diamond!" Sweetie stumbled out. I stomped my hoof against the ground, groaning as I done so. I close my eyes, but nothing works. I can't get relaxed even if I didn't expect those words to come to me. Apple Bloom sat up, pushing herself against my muzzle. Sweetie Belle's horn flickered, but Apple Bloom flicked it away as she turned to me again. I backed away, unable to pull myself away from her gaze. Her eyes showed so much anger I couldn't fathom how she could produce it. They radiated anger I'd expect Nightmare Moon would have enjoyed. My resolve didn't weaken, however, but it did stop my nerves. I stopped myself from moving once more, glaring at her directly in the eyes. "Well, you don't, do you?" Apple Bloom scowled, nearly growling in the process as her muzzle met mine again. "I love her more than any apple in the world. I would give up my cutie mark if it meant I could be with her." Well, that was unexpected. I pushed her muzzle once more. "Applejack's honesty doesn't run in the family; I can clearly see that," I begin. I try releasing the build up of air in my chest, but it didn't leave. "With every single encounter, I doubt anything you say about this is true." She growled pushing me in retaliation. "What are you talking about?" Her eyes flashed for a second, recognition etched. Sweetie Belle trotted in, her curled mane bouncing as she separated us without her magic in use. Her hooves shook as she had. Unicorns, by default, were the weakest out of all the races. Two Earth Ponies wouldn't budge with a unicorn's strength-at least, without magic. Her head poked through despite this. I huffed, removing myself from the both of them. Her eyes still were frantically darting between the two of us. "Guys, stop fighting!" She squeaked out. Green magic spit out of her horn. "Diamond, I told you, we were here for a single purpose!" I cringed. I made a promise; I wasn't intending it break it. It didn't stop me from grinding my teeth. "Fine then, now that everything is settled..." Sweetie Belle simply glared at Apple Bloom before continuing. "Apple Bloom, stop antagonizing-" Apple Bloom's scream interrupted Sweetie Belle immediately. "Why would you insinuate that?!" I blink, unable to comprehend her question for a few moments. Sweetie Belle seemed similar in my approach. "Apple Bloom, we know what you're still doing to this day," Sweetie Belle chimed in flatly. "Its..not exactly a secret." She stuck her tongue out. That was putting it lightly. "Its not a secret, you say? It smells like you just held an orgy in here!" I scrunched my nose. The scent still stuck against my nose. Sweetie Belle blushed as I gagged at the smell once more. "I.." Apple Bloom didn't complete the sentence. Her eyes followed her hoof with a frown. "I do love her, okay?" Her words were so soft. Scatenata only nodded; a sigh indicating defeat. My hooves traced the edges of the wound barely; only enough to dress it properly in peroxide and other ointments. She flinched, whimpering. "I'm sorry..." She whimpered. "I..don't mean to waste your time. I..I.." I turned to face her after returning the items in place. A scowl forming at the base. She immediately cringed, pushing herself backwards. My heart sank when she did that, but I didn't understand at that time why it had. I shook my head, smiling instead. "I don't mind helping you. Really, I don't. You don't need to think you're a burden here." I offered a hoof. "I'm sorry for scaring you. That was my fault." Scatenata eyed the hoof, staring back at me agape. "Why?" I blinked in confusion at the question. So, I ask: "Why what?" Scatenata eyed me again before turning her head to me. I only saw thick violet fur in my path.I push her bangs away, hoping to look her in the eye. Her light purple eyes twinkled again, tears just forming at the base, ready to spew at any moment. Her nose crinkled as she wiped her eye with her spare hoof. "Why would you bother helping a pony like me?" Her voice was soft; hardly audible; however, I did hear. Something burned against my throat when I did. "I'm..I'm not..."I pushed her muzzle so she could face me. As I did, I ignored the shock on her features. "Don't you ever finish that sentence," I sharply state. She didn't speak at all, her mouth was mouthing a few inaudible words or squeaks, but those fell on deaf ears. "I'll always help you, remember that." I gave her a smile as I helped her up. She didn't speak once more, a burning blush falling on her cheeks. I didn't know why I said those words, but I had. I hardly knew her then, but that was the least of my concerns. "Now, Nata, would you mind turning a little? Your wings look like they've been cut. I didn't think you were able to fly." I never did see a pony her age fly. She huffed cutely. "I have and I did." It was a matter-of-fact. She didn't dispute it further. "Oh and Diamond?" Scatenata turned to me, her blush never failing. She nuzzled me, wincing as she had, but she continued to do so. "Nata-" "Thank you." "I just....I don't want to hurt her, okay?" Apple Bloom's voice trailed off. Her eyes tracing the barn as she walked towards the back of the barn. "I..I don't know what to do, alright? I just don't know, but you can't ever say I don't love that mare." She trembled. "Is that why you did what you did?" My voice didn't falter, not even once. "Is that why you made her..? Is that why you forced her into that position?!" Her eyes widen, backing away. Her arm resting on her chest as she stared. "Well?!" Sweetie Belle moved forward immediately to block me. My eyes still didn't leave the earth pony. Apple Bloom visibly flinched as I stepped forward. "I..." Apple Bloom stuttered, shaking. I pushed past Sweetie Belle as I pushed my muzzle into hers. "I.." "That's enough, Tiara!" Sweetie Belle's magic flashed. My hoof immediately rubs my eyes as my eyes grew blurry. I frown as I shook my head. My vision clears quickly enough for me to notice I was outside the barn. I stare at the doors. They were locked, clearly. I didn't have the ability to intrude. However, from their conversation, it didn't matter. Sweetie Belle's voice erupted from the barn as Apple Bloom's grew quieter. I pressed my ear against the door in a vain attempt. The words were muffled with a few quiet tones, but nothing I could make out. "....I'm glad we can work it out." Was that Sweetie Belle's voice? I shook my head in disbelief as I backed from the barn. The door opened widely, pushing past everything in its wake. Apple Bloom's a bit dirtied, but it wasn't much to go on.Apple Bloom caught sight of me before turning away. Sweetie Belle turned to me with a sheepish grin to greet. "I'm sorry I teleported you out of there. It..wasn't right for me to do that without permission." With a grin I sent her, I rubbed my neck. "I....guess I over did it back there." Sweetie Belle placed a hoof on my shoulder as she shook her head. "Its fine, really." She scanned me carefully. Her eyes resting on mine. "Although I don't know as much about her as you, I trust your judgement." Her voice softened just enough for me to hear her. Apple Bloom choked, her head still faced away from us. "I heard you and Scootaloo are going somewhere tonight, going to share?" Apple Bloom was hoarse about it. I swear it was from jealousy or something. I can't believe that Apple Bloom loves Scatenata truly. Apple Bloom will never understand her actions have consequences because she didn't understand anything outside her bubble. Nobility or no, she had a lack of understanding. I wish to show her that lack. "I am!" Sweetie cheered, a smile forming. I eye her. Something felt off about it. "We wanted to discuss something quickly. It'll be quick." She looked towards me, for a second, I swear doubt flashed in her eyes. I didn't bring up her doubt. "That sounds about right," I nod. "Apple Bloom, do you remember?" The pony in question stood still, her body imaginably straight. Apple Bloom shook her head, her tail flicking in recognition. "Oh, uh yes!" Apple Bloom chimed in, her smile crooked as always. Her face lit up immediately. "You wanted to talk to me about somethin'." Her head tilted for a moment, her face turned towards the ground. "Why can't you tell me now? Her head whipped in my direction once more. "It can't be that confidential." Apple Bloom has little knowledge of anything outside her realm of knowledge. While confidential information was difficult to give out, she was a rival. A rival that deserves some inkling of anything, whether I agree with her relationship or not. Its not like it will matter. "Sort of." She's nothing but a pesky speed bump. Scatenata didn't deserve the treatment Apple Bloom had instilled in her. She didn't deserve the card she drew from the lot. Despite this, it didn't mean that I wouldn't try to rid Apple Bloom of it by cheating. A feathered diamond was durable like an ordinary diamond; the only difference is that this feathered diamond had nothing to lose. Apple Bloom, however, had much to. Author's Note After the next chapter or maybe the next chapter itself, everything changes from this point out. Think of this as a prologue. BatterieWhy was Diamond so interested in my date life? Diamond couldn't possibly think I didn't love her. I sigh, making a canter towards the massive structure known as Scootaloo's home. My legs refused to listen to my directions in the process. My aim was the center of town, Sweetie Belle resided there. With the plan on discussing everything, it was decided Sweetie's home was first to be nominated, mine being second. Diamond's home wasn't too far off, but I suppose going to her home wasn't much of an option with her mother running the household as of late. I was off the table, too, despite being available. Applejack had little knowledge of the problems at hoof; I don't plan on telling her everything because she ease drops. She's rather conservative in nature, at least, when concerning sex before marriage. If Applejack understood this deed has been done, Scootaloo would not be my fillyfriend for much longer. (If only because I would be forced to marry Dinky.)Either way, it hadn't mattered. I didn't turn in the direction I wanted to, not that I could easily tell my legs to do so. I wasn't supposed to head so far out of town, particularly at this time of night. It was a simple rule of mine since Twilight wandered into town a few years back. With her arrival, I swore to never leave past dark the older I grew. She seems to have brought everything here, good, bad or in between. My head darted upwards away from the thoughts that lingered; I frown, a brow furrowing. Something felt off. Nay, something was incorrect here. I bit back a comment to myself before going off in a sprint. A twist fell in my stomach, knotting it with a simple churn and bringing up bile in the process. Getting closer to the establishment, I was able to hear a conversation, but only a single side of it. At first, I paid no mind to it. A pointless conversation mattered little to me. However, the conversation lead into a strange conversation. Something about a baby and another pony. The pony sounded like Scootaloo, but Scootaloo couldn't possibly be thinking she was pregnant. Scootaloo...well, Scootaloo was with a mare; me. Not possible no matter how anypony slices it. With a single bump against a pony lead to something. I can't describe it; she simply screams authoritative. "What's your business here?" My head lowered as I mouth words. "Er.." My blush threatened to grow with each mumble. She stomped a hoof dozens of times; her head tilting upward with her muzzle flared in a growl. Her wings flared slightly before moving to her sides once more as though she was debating something with intent that is difficult to decipher. Though, anger was definitely on the table. "You. What's your business here?" Her voice grew cold. I flinched, backing off as her eyes showed frost that cold freeze even lava. She looks strikingly similar, I squinted in the night. Yeah, it was oddly similar. Her orange fur and purple mane gave the appearance of Scootaloo. Though, it wasn't simply her color palette. It was her body. As much as I hate to admit, its hard to ignore her muscular form. Although, she was...different, if that's the right term. A bright red-orange and hot pink streak ran through the long, spike purple mane. Her mane was nothing like Scootaloo's, after that, however. It had nothing of the messy tendencies her mane had. Her red-orange eyes twinkled in the night's light as she stared me down, her wings firmly pressed to her sides. My mind went blank for a moment, processing this as quickly as possible. Scootaloo had a sister- or, at least, another one? My mind drifted towards Pick Pocket. I could easily hear her mocking tone. "What.is.your.business." She narrowed her eyes. "I don't have time to fool around with a commoner with a simple mind like yourself." Her head jerked towards the home. "I...I just..." She whipped her head towards me once more. A frown growing larger as time passed. "Please, spare me the details and move along with your sentence. Are you wanting a quick bang from me, or something?" Her nose scrunched up after saying it, like she ate something sour. "Look, I already have a pony that's worth a weight in diamonds. A whore like you can't possibly know that, I suppose. " She petted my head. With a cough, she turned her head while in the midst of condescending me. "I have business to take care of far more important than the likes of you." She stared off for a moment, silently mouthing words to herself before chuckling. "Funny, it might actually help the likes of you." To hay with her, already! With a single slap, I was pinned to the floor almost immediately. My eyes widen with the suddenness of it. "The name is Batterie. Try that stunt again, whorse, and I'll make sure you're sorry you were ever created." With an extra nudge that took any possible air left, out of my lungs, she trudged off of me. She started facing away from my direction, but something felt odd when she had. Her eyes stared longingly in the abyss of black for what seemed like eternity. I swear I could see the gears turning in her head, but from what, I had no clue. The insane pony mumbled something softly under her breath before her head turned downward, a hoof rising up to touch her stomach. With a sigh, she glanced my way. Crap. Her eyes widen before her teeth clenched together. Her strong hind leg connected to my abdomen almost immediately. With a grunt, I reached to the pony in question. "I must go on my way. I can't continue wasting my time on a cheat like you." She trotted off with a start before I tackled her once my body felt up to it. "You just attacked me and you're just going to leave without saying why?" I glare daggers as best I could. Her eyes flickered with something before pushing off. I caught her off guard. Her muzzle formed a growl once more, only for it to be cut short. However, a flare of her nose still signified her anger anyhow. "I hate you touching me, you pervert!" Her voice changed its pitch, doing from formal and mocking to a foal like whine. Her hair grew frazzled. From the few moments I knew her, I saw a definite change that I could be deemed out of place for Batterie. She turned away once more, huffing before pawing the dirt with a look of defeat that a mare like her refused to often grant. However, her tone changed once she gained her bearings. "I have no time for this. Leave me alone." Her wings unfurled themselves immediately, ready for flight. "I didn't take you for a pony with a sweetheart," I stated offhand with some spite tossed in. She stopped in her tracks. Her body not moving for even the ability to breath. "With that look, it seems you're really pregnant. You look awfully young for that, don't you agree?" She hadn't responded, only granting me a look of utter disdain I hadn't thought a pony could muster. Flinching from this, she took this to her advantage. With a flick, she flew off high enough I couldn't catch her. However, I couldn't help but notice the tears forming in her eyes as she done so. I decided to shrug that uneasy feeling in my stomach that came back up as I trotted to the home. The knot only broke as it tightened. Pirouette, Scootaloo's mother, simply answered. She was almost as bad as Batterie. I cringe as my legs pushed backwards, only to stumble onto my flanks. "Ms.Apple Bloom, 'fraid that I didn't welcome you as I should," Her velvet voice was trying to be cheery. Her bright peach eyes shimmered. She probably was how Scootaloo managed to look so beautiful, although Pirouette lacked her charming personality. She tilted her head, her eyes staring at a space that once belonged to Batterie's position. Her ears flickered once more as she brushed her dark auburn fur. I shiver as she eyed me. "What are you doing here at this hour?" Despite the regal nature, she didn't sit well with me. She never has in the past. She bat her eyes once more, moving them between the space behind and to me. She gave a sigh before chuckling. She leaned against the doorway, eyeing me for a moment again before answering. "You really think I'd let you see my daughter at this hour?" She chuckled, smiling a bit in the process. Like velvet, it grew cold. "Rather not. I can't trust you, dear. Sorry, Ms. Bloom." "Why not?" The lump in my throat only worsened. "Rumors aren't false, are they?" She leaned forward, her muzzle meeting with mine. "She heard. I heard. I don't approve." She removed her muzzle, her scarlet mane brushing against me as she moved her head away. Pirouette hummed as her horn flickered on, deciding that a sip of tea was correct. "That's why your here, isn't it?" She mused before huffing. "'Sides, can't bring her to you, even if I bothered to. She's not here." She sat the cup down, glancing at me before moving off the doorway. "Erm...thanks.." I mutter in faux sincerity before wishing to turn tail and go straight to Sweetie's like I should have done prior. "What were you doing with that mare?" Her voice snapped my legs into a position that ended every notion of movement. My shoulders tense. "What were you discussing?" I gulp. "A crazy mare bumped into me. Said she needed to do something important." I mutter an insult before continuing. "I'm afraid she ran off somewhere. Did you need her?" Without a second thought, Pirouette's horn lit before it dissipated, Pirouette disappearing as it done so along with a slammed door. A shiver crawled down my spine before I left the vicinity of the home. Whatever Batterie had done was not my problem. I just had to get to Sweetie. Celestia knows that she has the craziest imagination after viewing those things called 'mange ga.
Feathered DiamondI have a desire. Everypony does at one point or another, but this was different. I can't adequately tell anypony what I desire. It was almost unattainable. Leading ponies maybe my ability, but my desire was far from it. Or maybe it was closer to it. Being in the background, following a lead...that felt normal. Leading a pony never had felt so normal until she helped interpret my cutie mark, that is. She made my interpretation and she gave me my mark-I only had her to thank for it. It was a new light; and I suppose that light got tainted later on. With my emblazoned flank adorned with a tiara came a perspective I only gave to her. Now she'll see a side I didn't want her, or anypony, to see, but more her than not. My mane was an atrocity! I trotted to the bathroom and quickly brushed out my mane while I had time to. She wouldn't mind my disheveled mess of a mane, but it would look flawed. I didn't want to look flawed, not in front of her. She deserved the world. She deserved so much more than what she had gotten. "Madam Tiara!" The butler bowed slightly after entering the room. His golden coat shimmering as the afternoon light hit. He glowed like a bulb. A mane with a few different shades of gold made it horrifyingly worse. I turn away from him. "Baroness Scatenata of House Pirouette came to greet you on this fine afternoon. Shall I let her in?" She deserved anything but what she had to receive. She didn't deserve the pony she was stuck with. She didn't deserve the insensitive pony that helped her earn her life's place. She is everything right in this tarturus given world. Why would fate hand her the cards given? Why had fate given her to Apple Bloom? She clearly didn't own Applejack's honesty. If she had, she wouldn't have slept with most of the mares in her class. There were few ponies that didn't apply to, naturally that being Silver and I. Oddly, it also included Apple Bloom's marefriend. Not that message mare, Dinky, but the most precious mare I ever laid my eyes on. She is the softest pony I ever had the chance to meet as a filly; quiet and kind. She had a backbone surprisingly, open and honest. Before the Elements of Harmony were created, I wouldn't have doubted she was the the harmony in question. Why would she want me, whether romantically or not? After all, I am but a feathered diamond; a diamond feathered by pressure. Still, even I, this feathered diamond, saw the truth. Scatenata didn't deserve that whorse of a marefriend. Although she had a marefriend, I will do anything for her. A broken diamond, after all, has its place. She is that place. "Madam Tiara?" The Butler called again. I tilted my head. I forgotten to answer. "Let her in!" I called. I wasn't prepared; Scatenata hugged my waist immediately upon hearing my approval. Her tears staining my pink coat. She was the mess this time. She was beautiful, to say the least. I grew suspicious as to why her mark wasn't for being a model. Her form filled to a frame only fit for one: lithe and small, like a delicate doll or a ballerina in a music box. Her orange coat had to be the softest, the best traded silks and cloths hadn't matched her fur. It didn't help that her feathers felt warm and welcoming. Maybe, just one day, I'd ask her for her feathers that she had to remove. Sleeping with a pillow made with those welcoming feathers would remove any nightmare I will ever get. I rub her back, my hooves just gracing her wings. They gave me a high that I wish I could contain better. I almost buried my head into her violet, tangled mane. It was so long; thick with fluffiness I think Pirouette had to take hours to create. It wasn't Pinkie Pie fluff, nor curled like Rarity. It had its own charm. I stopped myself, instead, I paid her my attention instead of feeding my heart. "Nata?" I rubbed her back. I shiver as ecstasy raced through my veins. "Nata, are you okay?" Sniffle. "I..I'm fine, really." She whimpered softly. I removed myself from her form, parts of me wishing I hadn't. Her purple eyes glimmered with tears. Even when depressed, she looked like an angel. I cupped her chin. "I'm..fine..." I glared before she shrinks back, a blush painting her orange cheeks a bright red. "I'm not..." "You've known me for years, " I began carefully. I can't help but to stare at her. Those captivating eyes..."You're lying. You're a terrible liar when you're upset." I start frowning. A pit in my stomach forms with jagged rocks that sink to the bottom. Constriction takes place when I breathe. Apple Bloom had a hoof in this. It was a happenstance waiting to transpire. I sigh. Scatenata was always a forgiving pony. Ignoring pony, if anything. Naive, perhaps, the better term. My heart beat was quicker than anticipated. My teeth grinding against each other. I didn't need to ask. I never had to. It was nice to get confirmation, though. "Did she hurt you?" She looked away, tears threatening to fall again. Nod. "Did she cheat on you?" Nod again. Apple Bloom wasn't making anything easy, anymore. "Who was it?" Scatenata looked at me. I bit my lip, ignoring the wave of pain it brought. It never mattered. She turned away again. "Nata!" "Dinky," She said flatly. Her eyes just kept to the floor the whole time. I nuzzled her as she squeaked in surprise. Many ponies don't see Scatenata like I do; she doesn't show very often. If she decided to pop up, she'd cower away. The limelight and the attention weren't suited for a metal worker like herself. Then again, most ponies wouldn't recognize her, or if they had, they certainly would make it a spectacle. Despite always being Scatenata, ponies would see it otherwise. Scatenata wasn't Scatenata in crowds, after all. Scatenata was Scootaloo in the crowds; Scootaloo is Rainbow Dash reincarnate, a shy pony as she would certainly attract attention when they act out of character. Though, was that really a character when Scootaloo was the character, instead? Especially when you know something so personal like that? No, especially for me. They wouldn't believe me, a pony just reformed from a pony I knew as a fake persona. They won't believe the pony that lied my way into helping them, for my goal wasn't always to be a good pony. I was always a good pony. At the same time, I was always a good actress, but for her, I would help her find her mark even if it was a lie. Although she doesn't love me in all her forms, it didn't matter to me. "Don't ever cry like this again, you hear me?" I whisper softly. Her body tensed. "I'll make sure she understands what she did. Perfectly. I have a desire. Everypony had a desire. Mine didn't match my cutie mark, or perhaps it did by chance. Either way, my desire is currently broken. I have to fix that desire. I will fix her broken gem. This feathered diamond will do anything to fix it. After all, I am her feathered diamond and I'll do anything to fix her feathers before they grow too big. Author's Note Feathered Diamonds are diamonds with small, microscopic cracks that have a feather outline. The durability isn't affected as long as it doesn't run too deep.
A Rotten Apple CoreI felt like a rotten apple the moment I accepted my cutie mark. As a filly, my cutie mark expedition was my all; my world and my escape from the farm. I love my farm and everything on it, from the bright red apples to the animals that lived there, every bit of it screamed "home". The farm wasn't enough, though. I needed more than the farm. The repetitive motions, the daily chores, they felt..they felt too boring when there is, obviously, so much more out to discover! It started out small; I wasn't aware of it then, but now when I look back, I understand where it began. It started when Nightmare Moon captured Princess Celestia. Back then, it was a scary experience; the notion of being trapped against your will was unbelievably terrifying. Just the thought of going into pure darkness was a new experience I couldn't fathom at the time. Everything chances over time, of course. I kept looking back, the pictures of the reformed Luna was odd to me. I couldn't pinpoint why. However, despite the seed being sown, it hadn't grown. Then I met her. Scootaloo was an outrageous pony. Daring, bash...Rainbow Dash levels of crazy. She liked the dirt, the grime, the ability to do just about anything at the expense of, well, life. It was something positively beyond boring. While the others had adventures, I couldn't help but feel angry at it. Fluttershy facing a dragon? That would have been amazing to see! But alas, I was labeled a 'filly', of course. When the days grew, so did other portions. I rationalize my anger towards my farming community; the dull thuds of apples falling never grated on me until I kept sensing all the wonders I was missing. Granny Smith's stories only enhanced the battle. The Apple Farm wasn't for me, I realized. It never would be, despite my family tradition. That hurt the most. Then she kept making me change. I developed something short of a crush after our first camping trip. She was a mystery to me before then; I thought she was just a one note pony. Very impulsive, one note, if anything. However, despite seeing her scared millions of times prior, she was different. She was horrified over something; she'd later admit it was over upsetting Dash but I swear there was more to those horrified eyes than that. They held a secret to unlock. I wanted to unlock it. Once we gained our marks-a shield with a different marking in each, it confirmed my fears. It wasn't apple related. I wasn't meant for the farm. In a way, the validation was a relief. My exploration ended but sating it hadn't. I needed a relief. I still had something pulling me towards Scootaloo and it kept growing as she kept going near me. Her bumps and nudges, her hugs and her animated speeches were captivating. I imagined many activities for her. It was when I realized why Luna's reformation stuck with me the longest despite many ponies having reformations. Starlight was the latest reformation yet. I couldn't stop shivering; I couldn't accept it at the time. It was beyond normal. It was anything but normal. I loved the idea of dominating a pony in the same way as Nightmare Moon. It was so close and personal; a pony controlling your every movement. I know I can't in the same fashion, but I came so close to it. Every fantasy played out the same way and ended the same way. I would dominate Scootaloo, force her into submission- but she would agree. I dreamed of just cornering her in the way Nightmare must have done so for Luna. It would become painful to think about. I tried numerous avenues, only one actually sating the desire, but it wasn't by much. At least, wasn't by much in my standards. I couldn't say the same about Dinky or Alula. Was that 10? 20? The number only grew as I raise ranks in Ponyville High. With the Canterlot nobles and the numerous ponies experimenting, it felt like a nice avenue. Trenderhoof started the trend and it hadn't seemed to end lately, now fillies and colts want the more "commoner" life when they visited. To the fillies, I happily obliged. However, it wasn't her, so I wasn't satisfied. Scootaloo was a tough apple to buck off the tree. Took more than just dating her to get the fruit. It fills a relief, so I'm hardly bored. It gives a challenge; just dating her doesn't mean much in terms of fulfilling this rotten core's desire. As daring as that mare was, she was terrified of many things. Sex was just the sprinkles on the sundae. Too bad it made her more desirable. I only just recently got a taste, and that taste wasn't an easy fight to get to. It had been only a day ago and she refuses to look my way. I lick myself clean from my latest venture, Dinky. Dinky wouldn't get up this time around. Twilight had an invention, and for what it was worth, I needed a few mares to test it on. I didn't exactly know what it was, but Dinky loved the thrill of discovering it. Being taught under Twilight, she discovered healing magic. Her love of this magic fueled experiments. Dinky loved experiments, and love experiments were her favorite as of late. "Dinky?" I called out. Dinky didn't move for a moment. Panic swelled at the base of my stomach. I nudged her, deciding to take to time in cleaning her. Her eyes fluttered open to reveal those yellow orbs I admire. A small smile formed at the base as she shook. "You alright there?" Nod. "More than fine," Dinky concluded, stretching her limbs. With a small smirk, she pushed me playfully. "Twist will adore those tricks, hopefully." I nod, hoping she'd ignore my bubbling panic. I don't like hearing other mares. The repercussions I might face are bigger than I can face at this moment. Hopefully that won't show through. "She'll like it. I'm sure." "Mmhum..'She hummed, turning away slightly. "This invention seems a bit strange, don't you think?" I tilt my head, scrunching my nose in the process. "Hhm..? How?" I frown. "It looks like something Twilight would make. Nothing new." Dinky jabbed it with a hoof before settling it in my bag. "There has to be a catch somewhere, Bloom. Twilight doesn't make sex toys. I doubt she feels the need to try something like that." The idea Twilight knew about sex was unsettling. I can't unsee that. I decided to shrug it off instead. "It can't be much. Its Twilight, remember?" Dinky sighed out before grabbing her saddle bags. "Just..be careful with it, okay?" Dinky grew stern. There was something in those eyes that made me second guess something. She had a ray of knowledge on this subject, but I can't pinpoint what she's holding out. Instead of questioning her logic, I nodded. My mouth can't form words at this point. Stupid mouth. Dinky gave me a quick nuzzle before trotting to Twilight's castle. If my theory is correct, then she will be currently researching the latest spell she found earlier. I sigh, leaning back against the barn's walls. They were secure walls. It didn't feel like infidelity when I was surrounded by the walls. My head drifts upward as I feel myself slipping into the bliss of security. "APPLE BLOOM!" Or not. My head immediately darted towards the sounds of crashes. When my eyes widen, I saw the culprit. It was an odd sight despite it all: Diamond Tiara seemed too refined for the farm life. "What's up?" I nearly tremble. Diamond Tiara has had the fancy to show up after her performance a few days ago. This time Sweetie Belle came along. "We need to talk."
A Diamond's ResolveThe smell of musk first hit me before anything else had a chance to. It was a strong aroma-nauseating, if anything. It smelt like stallion without the stallion. I shake my head. There wasn't time to ponder Apple Bloom's gender. I am livid and that's how I'll continue acting. "Apple Bloom, what in the name of tarturus are you doing?!" Apple Bloom lowered herself. She immediately realized that wasn't a sane idea as she simply shook beneath my gaze. I nearly smirked at that-if I had done this as a filly, I would have shown more than enough glee. I'm tempted to show how happy I am, but I feel like being the bigger pony for now. I could show sadistic glee later. Sigh. "Nothin', nothin' that would constitute your intervention," Apple Bloom had the gull to spit. I nearly growl at her. No need to get into a heated argument at this point in time. I sighed out. Relax, don't stoop to her level. "It requires my intervention. It always does, whether you like it or not." I pointed towards the barn in question, despite being in it. My arm silently moves to point in all directions. Certainly I was not being frantic. Not at all. "You may not see it like I do, but she's been hurting. Hurting real hard because of manure you've been pulling." Apple Bloom eyed Sweetie Belle cautiously. I can tell she was looking for something from her. Sympathy? Some sort of minor retribution? Sweetie Belle bit, pausing and refusing to eye Apple Bloom. Her face scrunched up for a moment, her mouth forming unspoken words. Once she found her voice, she turned to me. Years ago, I might have scoffed at her. But that was then and this is now. Sweetie and I had an unspoken agreement that I hardly understood for a moment myself. Sweetie hadn't known her quite as long as I; that was a given. Scatenata moved here 2 years after I first met her-while being in school, it was a tremulous period. She met Sweetie Belle when she moved. To this day, I still don't understand how Scatenata managed to hide in such a small crevice. At the same time, Sweetie Belle saw a side I was the only one able to see until that point. She didn't understand it at first; she was freaked out by the notion. She grew calmer about it the longer she managed to know her.It helped that Sweetie Belle worked for a hospital, part time now. Apple Bloom couldn't possibly understand Scatenata's situation. Celestia knows why Fate decided to give her Scatenata's card. Whether Sweetie and I are her friends has little to do with debating the behavior Apple Bloom displays. It wasn't up for debate, anyway. News was spread around by this time. Small towns always had easy rumors spread. It was a given. The only saving grace that we could sense happened to be Scatenata having little to no information spread about her. They hadn't known how close Apple Bloom and Scatenata were just yet. I lowered my head to face her. If only I hadn't dwindled my time. Scatenata wasn't an open book for many ponies. Nobility was her status; not many Ponyvillians understood how confidential that can be. They weren't nobility. They hadn't much on the line. Scatenata? More than anypony could possibly imagine. My gut twisted. I knew exactly what she has to lose. To see somepony, unintentionally or not, take advantage of it, sickened me. I shook, only glancing at Sweetie Belle as she tapped my arm. I released myself. No need to get as angry as that. She wasn't worth it. "I'm sorry.." Scatenata hiccuped softly. Her small hooves didn't hurt. She was too small to do an earth pony damage-whether it was to an adult or a filly like me. Her mane was so long at the time-she couldn't see past it without tripping over her bangs. While enduring this was, it only covered what I needed to see. "I'm..sorry for wasting your time...Miss..." I gave a half smile. "Diamond. Diamond Tiara. Don't worry about formals. My parents aren't here, certainly the butlers aren't either. Just address me informally for now." I pushed her bangs away. Something didn't click with me right then and there- I wasn't old enough to see the extent of the damage myself. Or-maybe that wasn't it. I easily saw the extent. That wasn't it. I didn't see, however, the extent of the invisible markings. I didn't understand why all the wounds were focused just below the base of the tail as they were. A filly wouldn't understand; a filly like me couldn't understand. She did, of course. To an extent. She was just as oblivious as I. Still, that didn't mean much to me at that time. I had to clean her up. Pulling away, I reached for peroxide and some bandages. Her eyes widened at that point. I could feel the room thicken in fear. I just shook my head, a small smile threatening to take precedence. "It will hurt a bit, but it'll help. Trust me." "Dia and I...we know what you did..." Sweetie Belle said with carefulness I envied. She kicked the barn dirt, fidgeting as the tension only grew. My heart grew heavy, pushing against my chest. "You can't keep on with this, Bloom...You just can't." "You're not in love with her, are you?" I flinch as the accusation came from my mouth. It was uncalled for, I know. I didn't stop myself. Sweetie Belle's eyes widen at the prospect, her mouth agape. "Diamond!" Sweetie stumbled out. I stomped my hoof against the ground, groaning as I done so. I close my eyes, but nothing works. I can't get relaxed even if I didn't expect those words to come to me. Apple Bloom sat up, pushing herself against my muzzle. Sweetie Belle's horn flickered, but Apple Bloom flicked it away as she turned to me again. I backed away, unable to pull myself away from her gaze. Her eyes showed so much anger I couldn't fathom how she could produce it. They radiated anger I'd expect Nightmare Moon would have enjoyed. My resolve didn't weaken, however, but it did stop my nerves. I stopped myself from moving once more, glaring at her directly in the eyes. "Well, you don't, do you?" Apple Bloom scowled, nearly growling in the process as her muzzle met mine again. "I love her more than any apple in the world. I would give up my cutie mark if it meant I could be with her." Well, that was unexpected. I pushed her muzzle once more. "Applejack's honesty doesn't run in the family; I can clearly see that," I begin. I try releasing the build up of air in my chest, but it didn't leave. "With every single encounter, I doubt anything you say about this is true." She growled pushing me in retaliation. "What are you talking about?" Her eyes flashed for a second, recognition etched. Sweetie Belle trotted in, her curled mane bouncing as she separated us without her magic in use. Her hooves shook as she had. Unicorns, by default, were the weakest out of all the races. Two Earth Ponies wouldn't budge with a unicorn's strength-at least, without magic. Her head poked through despite this. I huffed, removing myself from the both of them. Her eyes still were frantically darting between the two of us. "Guys, stop fighting!" She squeaked out. Green magic spit out of her horn. "Diamond, I told you, we were here for a single purpose!" I cringed. I made a promise; I wasn't intending it break it. It didn't stop me from grinding my teeth. "Fine then, now that everything is settled..." Sweetie Belle simply glared at Apple Bloom before continuing. "Apple Bloom, stop antagonizing-" Apple Bloom's scream interrupted Sweetie Belle immediately. "Why would you insinuate that?!" I blink, unable to comprehend her question for a few moments. Sweetie Belle seemed similar in my approach. "Apple Bloom, we know what you're still doing to this day," Sweetie Belle chimed in flatly. "Its..not exactly a secret." She stuck her tongue out. That was putting it lightly. "Its not a secret, you say? It smells like you just held an orgy in here!" I scrunched my nose. The scent still stuck against my nose. Sweetie Belle blushed as I gagged at the smell once more. "I.." Apple Bloom didn't complete the sentence. Her eyes followed her hoof with a frown. "I do love her, okay?" Her words were so soft. Scatenata only nodded; a sigh indicating defeat. My hooves traced the edges of the wound barely; only enough to dress it properly in peroxide and other ointments. She flinched, whimpering. "I'm sorry..." She whimpered. "I..don't mean to waste your time. I..I.." I turned to face her after returning the items in place. A scowl forming at the base. She immediately cringed, pushing herself backwards. My heart sank when she did that, but I didn't understand at that time why it had. I shook my head, smiling instead. "I don't mind helping you. Really, I don't. You don't need to think you're a burden here." I offered a hoof. "I'm sorry for scaring you. That was my fault." Scatenata eyed the hoof, staring back at me agape. "Why?" I blinked in confusion at the question. So, I ask: "Why what?" Scatenata eyed me again before turning her head to me. I only saw thick violet fur in my path.I push her bangs away, hoping to look her in the eye. Her light purple eyes twinkled again, tears just forming at the base, ready to spew at any moment. Her nose crinkled as she wiped her eye with her spare hoof. "Why would you bother helping a pony like me?" Her voice was soft; hardly audible; however, I did hear. Something burned against my throat when I did. "I'm..I'm not..."I pushed her muzzle so she could face me. As I did, I ignored the shock on her features. "Don't you ever finish that sentence," I sharply state. She didn't speak at all, her mouth was mouthing a few inaudible words or squeaks, but those fell on deaf ears. "I'll always help you, remember that." I gave her a smile as I helped her up. She didn't speak once more, a burning blush falling on her cheeks. I didn't know why I said those words, but I had. I hardly knew her then, but that was the least of my concerns. "Now, Nata, would you mind turning a little? Your wings look like they've been cut. I didn't think you were able to fly." I never did see a pony her age fly. She huffed cutely. "I have and I did." It was a matter-of-fact. She didn't dispute it further. "Oh and Diamond?" Scatenata turned to me, her blush never failing. She nuzzled me, wincing as she had, but she continued to do so. "Nata-" "Thank you." "I just....I don't want to hurt her, okay?" Apple Bloom's voice trailed off. Her eyes tracing the barn as she walked towards the back of the barn. "I..I don't know what to do, alright? I just don't know, but you can't ever say I don't love that mare." She trembled. "Is that why you did what you did?" My voice didn't falter, not even once. "Is that why you made her..? Is that why you forced her into that position?!" Her eyes widen, backing away. Her arm resting on her chest as she stared. "Well?!" Sweetie Belle moved forward immediately to block me. My eyes still didn't leave the earth pony. Apple Bloom visibly flinched as I stepped forward. "I..." Apple Bloom stuttered, shaking. I pushed past Sweetie Belle as I pushed my muzzle into hers. "I.." "That's enough, Tiara!" Sweetie Belle's magic flashed. My hoof immediately rubs my eyes as my eyes grew blurry. I frown as I shook my head. My vision clears quickly enough for me to notice I was outside the barn. I stare at the doors. They were locked, clearly. I didn't have the ability to intrude. However, from their conversation, it didn't matter. Sweetie Belle's voice erupted from the barn as Apple Bloom's grew quieter. I pressed my ear against the door in a vain attempt. The words were muffled with a few quiet tones, but nothing I could make out. "....I'm glad we can work it out." Was that Sweetie Belle's voice? I shook my head in disbelief as I backed from the barn. The door opened widely, pushing past everything in its wake. Apple Bloom's a bit dirtied, but it wasn't much to go on.Apple Bloom caught sight of me before turning away. Sweetie Belle turned to me with a sheepish grin to greet. "I'm sorry I teleported you out of there. It..wasn't right for me to do that without permission." With a grin I sent her, I rubbed my neck. "I....guess I over did it back there." Sweetie Belle placed a hoof on my shoulder as she shook her head. "Its fine, really." She scanned me carefully. Her eyes resting on mine. "Although I don't know as much about her as you, I trust your judgement." Her voice softened just enough for me to hear her. Apple Bloom choked, her head still faced away from us. "I heard you and Scootaloo are going somewhere tonight, going to share?" Apple Bloom was hoarse about it. I swear it was from jealousy or something. I can't believe that Apple Bloom loves Scatenata truly. Apple Bloom will never understand her actions have consequences because she didn't understand anything outside her bubble. Nobility or no, she had a lack of understanding. I wish to show her that lack. "I am!" Sweetie cheered, a smile forming. I eye her. Something felt off about it. "We wanted to discuss something quickly. It'll be quick." She looked towards me, for a second, I swear doubt flashed in her eyes. I didn't bring up her doubt. "That sounds about right," I nod. "Apple Bloom, do you remember?" The pony in question stood still, her body imaginably straight. Apple Bloom shook her head, her tail flicking in recognition. "Oh, uh yes!" Apple Bloom chimed in, her smile crooked as always. Her face lit up immediately. "You wanted to talk to me about somethin'." Her head tilted for a moment, her face turned towards the ground. "Why can't you tell me now? Her head whipped in my direction once more. "It can't be that confidential." Apple Bloom has little knowledge of anything outside her realm of knowledge. While confidential information was difficult to give out, she was a rival. A rival that deserves some inkling of anything, whether I agree with her relationship or not. Its not like it will matter. "Sort of." She's nothing but a pesky speed bump. Scatenata didn't deserve the treatment Apple Bloom had instilled in her. She didn't deserve the card she drew from the lot. Despite this, it didn't mean that I wouldn't try to rid Apple Bloom of it by cheating. A feathered diamond was durable like an ordinary diamond; the only difference is that this feathered diamond had nothing to lose. Apple Bloom, however, had much to. Author's Note After the next chapter or maybe the next chapter itself, everything changes from this point out. Think of this as a prologue.
BatterieWhy was Diamond so interested in my date life? Diamond couldn't possibly think I didn't love her. I sigh, making a canter towards the massive structure known as Scootaloo's home. My legs refused to listen to my directions in the process. My aim was the center of town, Sweetie Belle resided there. With the plan on discussing everything, it was decided Sweetie's home was first to be nominated, mine being second. Diamond's home wasn't too far off, but I suppose going to her home wasn't much of an option with her mother running the household as of late. I was off the table, too, despite being available. Applejack had little knowledge of the problems at hoof; I don't plan on telling her everything because she ease drops. She's rather conservative in nature, at least, when concerning sex before marriage. If Applejack understood this deed has been done, Scootaloo would not be my fillyfriend for much longer. (If only because I would be forced to marry Dinky.)Either way, it hadn't mattered. I didn't turn in the direction I wanted to, not that I could easily tell my legs to do so. I wasn't supposed to head so far out of town, particularly at this time of night. It was a simple rule of mine since Twilight wandered into town a few years back. With her arrival, I swore to never leave past dark the older I grew. She seems to have brought everything here, good, bad or in between. My head darted upwards away from the thoughts that lingered; I frown, a brow furrowing. Something felt off. Nay, something was incorrect here. I bit back a comment to myself before going off in a sprint. A twist fell in my stomach, knotting it with a simple churn and bringing up bile in the process. Getting closer to the establishment, I was able to hear a conversation, but only a single side of it. At first, I paid no mind to it. A pointless conversation mattered little to me. However, the conversation lead into a strange conversation. Something about a baby and another pony. The pony sounded like Scootaloo, but Scootaloo couldn't possibly be thinking she was pregnant. Scootaloo...well, Scootaloo was with a mare; me. Not possible no matter how anypony slices it. With a single bump against a pony lead to something. I can't describe it; she simply screams authoritative. "What's your business here?" My head lowered as I mouth words. "Er.." My blush threatened to grow with each mumble. She stomped a hoof dozens of times; her head tilting upward with her muzzle flared in a growl. Her wings flared slightly before moving to her sides once more as though she was debating something with intent that is difficult to decipher. Though, anger was definitely on the table. "You. What's your business here?" Her voice grew cold. I flinched, backing off as her eyes showed frost that cold freeze even lava. She looks strikingly similar, I squinted in the night. Yeah, it was oddly similar. Her orange fur and purple mane gave the appearance of Scootaloo. Though, it wasn't simply her color palette. It was her body. As much as I hate to admit, its hard to ignore her muscular form. Although, she was...different, if that's the right term. A bright red-orange and hot pink streak ran through the long, spike purple mane. Her mane was nothing like Scootaloo's, after that, however. It had nothing of the messy tendencies her mane had. Her red-orange eyes twinkled in the night's light as she stared me down, her wings firmly pressed to her sides. My mind went blank for a moment, processing this as quickly as possible. Scootaloo had a sister- or, at least, another one? My mind drifted towards Pick Pocket. I could easily hear her mocking tone. "What.is.your.business." She narrowed her eyes. "I don't have time to fool around with a commoner with a simple mind like yourself." Her head jerked towards the home. "I...I just..." She whipped her head towards me once more. A frown growing larger as time passed. "Please, spare me the details and move along with your sentence. Are you wanting a quick bang from me, or something?" Her nose scrunched up after saying it, like she ate something sour. "Look, I already have a pony that's worth a weight in diamonds. A whore like you can't possibly know that, I suppose. " She petted my head. With a cough, she turned her head while in the midst of condescending me. "I have business to take care of far more important than the likes of you." She stared off for a moment, silently mouthing words to herself before chuckling. "Funny, it might actually help the likes of you." To hay with her, already! With a single slap, I was pinned to the floor almost immediately. My eyes widen with the suddenness of it. "The name is Batterie. Try that stunt again, whorse, and I'll make sure you're sorry you were ever created." With an extra nudge that took any possible air left, out of my lungs, she trudged off of me. She started facing away from my direction, but something felt odd when she had. Her eyes stared longingly in the abyss of black for what seemed like eternity. I swear I could see the gears turning in her head, but from what, I had no clue. The insane pony mumbled something softly under her breath before her head turned downward, a hoof rising up to touch her stomach. With a sigh, she glanced my way. Crap. Her eyes widen before her teeth clenched together. Her strong hind leg connected to my abdomen almost immediately. With a grunt, I reached to the pony in question. "I must go on my way. I can't continue wasting my time on a cheat like you." She trotted off with a start before I tackled her once my body felt up to it. "You just attacked me and you're just going to leave without saying why?" I glare daggers as best I could. Her eyes flickered with something before pushing off. I caught her off guard. Her muzzle formed a growl once more, only for it to be cut short. However, a flare of her nose still signified her anger anyhow. "I hate you touching me, you pervert!" Her voice changed its pitch, doing from formal and mocking to a foal like whine. Her hair grew frazzled. From the few moments I knew her, I saw a definite change that I could be deemed out of place for Batterie. She turned away once more, huffing before pawing the dirt with a look of defeat that a mare like her refused to often grant. However, her tone changed once she gained her bearings. "I have no time for this. Leave me alone." Her wings unfurled themselves immediately, ready for flight. "I didn't take you for a pony with a sweetheart," I stated offhand with some spite tossed in. She stopped in her tracks. Her body not moving for even the ability to breath. "With that look, it seems you're really pregnant. You look awfully young for that, don't you agree?" She hadn't responded, only granting me a look of utter disdain I hadn't thought a pony could muster. Flinching from this, she took this to her advantage. With a flick, she flew off high enough I couldn't catch her. However, I couldn't help but notice the tears forming in her eyes as she done so. I decided to shrug that uneasy feeling in my stomach that came back up as I trotted to the home. The knot only broke as it tightened. Pirouette, Scootaloo's mother, simply answered. She was almost as bad as Batterie. I cringe as my legs pushed backwards, only to stumble onto my flanks. "Ms.Apple Bloom, 'fraid that I didn't welcome you as I should," Her velvet voice was trying to be cheery. Her bright peach eyes shimmered. She probably was how Scootaloo managed to look so beautiful, although Pirouette lacked her charming personality. She tilted her head, her eyes staring at a space that once belonged to Batterie's position. Her ears flickered once more as she brushed her dark auburn fur. I shiver as she eyed me. "What are you doing here at this hour?" Despite the regal nature, she didn't sit well with me. She never has in the past. She bat her eyes once more, moving them between the space behind and to me. She gave a sigh before chuckling. She leaned against the doorway, eyeing me for a moment again before answering. "You really think I'd let you see my daughter at this hour?" She chuckled, smiling a bit in the process. Like velvet, it grew cold. "Rather not. I can't trust you, dear. Sorry, Ms. Bloom." "Why not?" The lump in my throat only worsened. "Rumors aren't false, are they?" She leaned forward, her muzzle meeting with mine. "She heard. I heard. I don't approve." She removed her muzzle, her scarlet mane brushing against me as she moved her head away. Pirouette hummed as her horn flickered on, deciding that a sip of tea was correct. "That's why your here, isn't it?" She mused before huffing. "'Sides, can't bring her to you, even if I bothered to. She's not here." She sat the cup down, glancing at me before moving off the doorway. "Erm...thanks.." I mutter in faux sincerity before wishing to turn tail and go straight to Sweetie's like I should have done prior. "What were you doing with that mare?" Her voice snapped my legs into a position that ended every notion of movement. My shoulders tense. "What were you discussing?" I gulp. "A crazy mare bumped into me. Said she needed to do something important." I mutter an insult before continuing. "I'm afraid she ran off somewhere. Did you need her?" Without a second thought, Pirouette's horn lit before it dissipated, Pirouette disappearing as it done so along with a slammed door. A shiver crawled down my spine before I left the vicinity of the home. Whatever Batterie had done was not my problem. I just had to get to Sweetie. Celestia knows that she has the craziest imagination after viewing those things called 'mange ga.
