Chapters Dance in the Midst of Midnight
You Scratch My Back, I... Suck Your Blood?
Amore found herself back at the age of thirteen. All around her was nothing but pitch black darkness. Voices echoed all around her as she simply stared onwards.
"You look so beautiful, my dear." An elderly male pony's voice states happily.
"Ew, what's up with her mane and tail? She looks like a freak?" A young female filly's voice comments with disgust.
"Still no cutie mark? I mean you're thirteen, right? How... Unnatural." A teenage male pony's voice asks, puzzled.
Amore grew a bit so she was now sixteen. Her mane and tail colour were natural from birth yet no pony could figure out why. She was singled out for it constantly.
"Honey, now that you're sixteen here is what was left behind for you by the unicorn who brought you here." The elderly pony's voice states warmly.
"Hey, punk, what do you think you're doing on our turf?" A rough teenage male pony's voice states firmly.
"Oh my god, she looks like such an uneducated bitch... I mean, just look at that hair." An uptight female pony's voice remarks.
"What pony in their right mind would ever date a homeless chick like you?" A mature female pony's voice comments.
Amore grows to how she looks now in the same clothes she wore at the front gate of the academy. The feeling of depression grows inside her making her want to break down and just give up. Suddenly, somewhere out of the darkness, a warm feeling appears in front of her and a hand lifts her chin so she can see its owner.
Standing in front of Amore is an elderly male Earth Pony. His coat is a faded brown, his mane and tail have long since gone grey. The pony's eyes are a bright orange. He smiles warmly at Amore and strokes her cheek to comfort her.
"You had a rough time growing up... I know I tried my best with you and I am proud of how you turned out. You know I'd never trade the time I spent with you for anything in all Equestria." The elderly pony smiles at Amore making her smile slightly.
"I still lost..." Amore whimpers to the elderly pony.
"Oh? Since when did you let one loss scuttle your confidence? Buck up my girl. You're not beaten yet, are you?" The elderly pony states with a chuckle.
"I'm getting nowhere... I haven't found a single lead in so long..." Amore begins to tear up.
"Then you keep looking. I believe it was you who said, 'I won't rest till I find my real parents and beat some answers out of them'." The elderly pony defiantly states in a proud manner likely how Amore did.
"But..." Amore's voice trails off.
"No buts... Now wake up and get right back into the fight, my little ruffian." The elderly pony ruffles Amore's mane before she slowly feels the dream slip away and lights start to enter her realm.
"Hey, Amore? Are you going to get up?" Amore can hear Octavia's voice ask as she slowly opens her eyes and sits up yawning.
Amore can see that Octavia is already mostly dressed in a dark green and white trim version of her uniform yesterday. Amore throws off the quilt and slides out of bed before groaning.
"What's wrong?" Octavia asks putting on her bow tie.
"I'm all sweaty and icky... I need another shower." Amore states as she heads into the bathroom and turns on the shower.
"You're going to make us late, Amore! Seriously..." Octavia sighs deeply before her attention was stolen by a knock at the door.
Octavia opens the door and standing in her doorway is a mare wearing the academy mail service uniform. "Hello Derpy, to what do I owe this pleasure so early in the morning?" Octavia asks with a smile to hide her frustration at her new roommate.
"Hiya Octavia! I came to deliver a package sent to you by Principal Flutterbat! Okie dokie, now where did I put that thing?" Seemingly struggling with her mail bag and if by complete cartoon magic she pulls out Amore's silver sword case and another, softer looking package. Handing them to Octavia she then checks around her person for a clipboard, which, upon being found, is handed over to Octavia to sign.
"Who is it?" Amore asks walking across the room drying her hair to look at the doorway. Derpy's mouth flies wide open and her wings spread out when she see's the naked mare, who seemingly forgot to put a towel around her body.
Octavia shuts Derpy's mouth with a slight sigh and hands her back the clipboard and pen. "Yes, she is. No, we are definitely not. No, you can talk to her later." Derpy pouts at Octavia who seemingly read every single one of her questions and shut the door with a wave of thanks.
"Who the hay was that mare anyway?" Amore asks again, finishing up drying herself.
"That was Derpy Hooves, the resident academy mail mare." Octavia places the silver case and the other package on the bed. "I think she likes you after the full 'show' you just gave her." Octavia rubs her forehead and sighs as Amore simply shrugs.
"Finally. I was afraid I'd have to tear shit up just to get this baby back. What the hay is this though?" Amore opens the package addressed to her and spreads out the contents on the bed for Octavia to see.
Amore stares at the clothes packed inside and blinks a few times.
"I think they will look cute." Octavia states with a smile.
"I am not wearing that..." Amore firmly states.
"Oh, but come on... You will look 'simply divine'." Octavia states seemingly imitating somepony.
"I. Am. Not. Wearing. That." Amore states again putting extra emphasis on each word, squinting her eyes at Octavia.
"Oh, it looks so much better than I imagined~" Octavia sings to Amore who is blushing annoyingly as she adjusts her skirt constantly as they walk down the corridor to their first class.
"I look like one of those high school hookers you see in anime!" Amore blurted out a bit too loudly and blushes deeper.
"Amore! That is our school uniform! Please be a lot more respectful to our Lady Flutterbat's outfit choice..." Octavia states clearly offended by Amore's remark.
Octavia wears the standard school uniform which is very similar to the uniform Moka wears out of 'Rosario+Vampire'. The differences are that for vampire and other supernatural creature students, the uniform has a white skirt, dark green blazer with white trim, black tie, and black stockings. Octavia, however, wears her bow tie instead of the standard tie. For normal pony students, it is the same, only with a dark grey skirt and aqua blue for the blazer. Now, Amore was wearing the exact same style uniform, only her blazer and skirt are pitch black with blood red trim instead of white. Her shirt under her blazer is also pitch black. Around Amore's neck is the pair of headphones she picked out last night. The iPod is in her pocket and fully charged thanks to Octavia.
"Sorry... I still don't feel comfortable wearing it..." Amore states as she shifts her silver case on her back and they near a classroom door.
"Well, maybe you should have worn the stockings that came with it then... You have no pony to blame but yourself." Octavia whips harshly, clearly still annoyed.
"Tavi... Stockings are so not my thing..." Amore admits without hesitation.
"You don't find them unappealing to look at though, do you..?" Octavia comments to how Amore has been staring at several mares on their way to the classroom. Amore simply chuckles nervously and rubs the back of her neck as they enter the classroom.
The classroom was what you'd expect from any typical school anime, which made Amore smile. "Sorry for being late. Our new transfer student needed to pick up her uniform." Octavia informs the teacher before sitting down at her desk.
The teacher inspects Amore before prompting her to write her name on the chalkboard. The teacher is a middle-aged male Unicorn wearing a white shirt, brown jacket and black trousers with glasses. "Okay, today we will have a new transfer student joining us... Please make her feel welcome." The teacher nods to Amore who takes a deep breath.
"Sup, my name is Amore Sânge Von Scratch and it's a pleasure to meet you. I hope we can perhaps try to get along, but I make no promises." Amore smiles as Octavia sighs at Amore's blunt introduction.
Amore can hear many whispers as she is directed to her seat beside Octavia.
"Oh my god, I love her hair! So original! Did she dye it?" A female Pegasus pony whispers to her female friend in front of her.
"Holy shit she's hot..."
"Dude, you have no chance..." Two male Earth Ponies comment behind her.
"'Von Scratch', does that make her related to Vinyl Scratch? Maybe a sister or daughter or something?" A female Unicorn prompts to a nearby friend, who shrugs.
The teacher settles the room as Amore shifts the case off her back and lays it under her desk. The teacher coughs and groans at Amore but is stopped by Octavia.
"I assure you, Lady Flutterbat has cleared her case and uniform already. Also, she has special learning requirements so I will be teaching her from my notes later if that is acceptable?" Octavia states as the teacher shifts slightly and nods.
The teacher, Mister Bright Saddle, started the lesson as Amore simply sat in her chair daydreaming, staring out of the window by Octavia. Watching the birds and looking at the moon still seemingly in the sky with the academy's dim atmosphere which only got a bit brighter during the day. After the two lessons they had in that room, it was time for lunch. Amore stretched in her chair sighing slightly at her current situation, but couldn't help smiling at how far she had come. Two Pegasus mares walked over to Amore in order to speak with her. The mare on the left has an aqua blue coat, her mane and tail are a dark shade of blue with black streaks, her eyes are also a darker blue. The mare on the right has a bright yellow coat, her mane and tail were a single bright orange colour, her eyes are the same bright orange.
"Hey there, my name is Aqua Streak and my friend here is Scarlet Orange." The aqua coloured Pegasus introduced herself and her accomplice.
"Hi... Why do they call you 'Scarlet Orange'?" Amore asks leaning back on her chair putting her hands behind her head.
"They call her that because she blushes way too much at everything." Aqua Streaks states chuckling as Scarlet Orange proves her right and blushes a cute shade of crimson.
"I see, so... Is there anything I can help you with?" Amore looks confused at their approach of her.
"Ah, well you see we were just admiring your hair and I really badly want to know who you had do it!" Aqua Streaks asks looking excited.
Scarlet Orange nods happily. "Yeah, it's very original and unique."
Amore smirks a little and can hardly believe what she is hearing. "Well... It's kinda always been this way. I guess it's naturally like this." Amore admits scratching her nose.
Aqua Streak's eyes light up. "That's so cool! I hope you hang around for a while. This academy can be an interesting place!" Aqua Streaks drags Scarlet Orange away who is timidly waving 'bye' at Amore.
"Well, you're making friends quicker than I thought you would." Octavia jokes to Amore who just blushes slightly.
"Shaddup... It's not that surprising... So, is it lunch now?" Amore asks sheepishly.
Octavia stands up and leads Amore out of the classroom making her quickly grab her silver case.
"I kinda don't have any money for lunch, though..." Amore admits as she is dragged along to the cafeteria.
"That won't be a problem. The Von Melody family have significant wealth and as head of the family, I have access to that wealth without limit. Of course, I'm not irresponsible and the food here is very affordable." Octavia states as they enter the cafeteria.
"Wait, so what about your father or mother? How did you inherit your significant wealth?" Amore asks unsure of the answer.
Octavia smiles. "I killed both my mother and father in order to inherit the significant wealth of the prestigious Von Melody family. They were weak and I remained stronger than them. I have no regrets about anything I've ever had to do." Octavia informs Amore who notices Octavia showed no remorse or sadness in her voice when stating what she did.
"Oh... I was not expecting that response at all..." Amore looks uncomfortable.
"Do not be sorry if you plan to be. It was quite a few years ago and I'd gladly do it again. I have no love for my parents regardless of what anyone says." Octavia claims as she enters them into the cue to get lunch.
"So umm... Is there a limit on what I can get?" Amore asks looking nervous.
Octavia chuckles. "I can imagine you haven't eaten at all since you came here yesterday, so not today, no. Please get what you like and I will pay for you."
Amore smiles widely as they soon reach the serving counter making Amore's eyes light up. "I will have..." Amore takes a deep breath. "Two bowls of rice, two daisy sandwiches, three pieces of bread, a salad bowl, a bowl with a mixture of corn, carrots, other assorted vegetables and... Oh, one deluxe bread roll, please~" Amore sings the please.
The middle aged looking serving chef has a surprised look on his face as he frantically prepares everything onto trays before both Amore and Octavia take it all to the checkout counter and Octavia generously pays the bill of two hundred and fifty bits. Octavia takes Amore to a rather decently lit seat in the cafeteria and they sit down beside each other.
"So umm... What are you having for lunch, Octavia?" Amore asks preparing her food.
Octavia smiles and shuffles closer to Amore. "I am a vampire. While I can consume conventional food... In order to survive I am required to drink blood. Until yesterday I had to make do getting by with the chilled blood they sell here. However, after tasting your fresh, sweet, warm blood I kinda have a craving for it now." Octavia admits stroking her fingers through Amore's mane.
"Oh... So basically the deal you're proposing is that you feed me and I feed you? It sounds like a legit deal... It's not like I didn't enjoy you sucking my blood before." Amore states thinking it over.
"So, you like how it feels? Me feeding off you. I wonder if Amore is a masochist? Getting pleasure from pain. It actually makes sense why you pick fights with the strongest." Octavia brushes Amore's mane away from her neck. She then positions them so she can bite in the same place as last time and begin sucking softly.
Amore blushes softly as Octavia begins sucking and drinking her blood. The same warm pleasurable feeling burns inside Amore and she coos cutely as Octavia feeds. To Amore's disappointment, the session ended shorter than she wished.
"Hmm thank you for the meal, Amore... Amore?" Octavia looks puzzled at the pouting face of Amore, unsure as to why she looked so disappointed.
"Why'd you stop..? I was enjoying it..." Amore sighs still pouting.
Octavia laughs and sighs gently. "I will only take what I need to. If I drank to my heart's content, I'd drain and kill you... As much as I'm sure you'd enjoy the feeling, I will only need to feed when I feel hungry, okay?" Octavia informs Amore in a serious yet gentle tone.
"Fine... I won't argue about it... I'm going to eat now too~" Amore sings as she starts with a bowl of rice. What Octavia saw next somewhat shocked her and the rest of the canteen who saw it. Amore began to blaze through her meal going from one bowl to the other in quick succession like a ravenous hungry wolf who hasn't eaten since birth.
"Oh, sweet Celestia... Her table manners are... They simply don't exist..." Octavia looks on in horror.
Amore stops briefly with a mouth full of rice to look at Octavia. "Hmm? WhAt Did YoUs SaY?" Amore asks muffled by her mouthful of rice, spitting some out at Octavia.
Octavia sighs deeply and sucks up her comments. "N-nothing... Please continue..." Octavia shifts away slightly.
"OkAy!" Amore replies before continuing her ravenous onslaught of the poor dishes in front of her.
After several minutes of eating, Amore finally rests, placing down her second rice bowl and what's left of her bread roll deluxe. Patting her belly she lets out a satisfied sigh of relief. "The food here totally rocks!" Amore lays down on the seat of the bench like long table.
"We need to sort your table manners out at some point..." Octavia states, standing over Amore.
Amore cracks open one eye and sighs. "Why? What's wrong with 'em?" Amore asks, oblivious.
"I'm going to pretend you're just messing around with me and know exactly why... You are such a handful..." Octavia sits back down with a strawberry milkshake she got halfway through Amore's rampage.
"I've been meaning to ask... Your uniform is different than yesterday, what's up with that?" Amore painfully sits up, cocking her head to the left.
"Well seeing as you asked... The uniform you saw me in yesterday is my 'student council president' uniform. I got special permission from Lady Flutterbat to be able to wear two types of uniform. This is the uniform I wear when I want to be just a normal student like everypony else. It also lets the student council members know I'm off duty and have to handle things themselves. Of course, if a problem is too hard to handle I step in regardless." Octavia explains to a nodding Amore.
"I think I get it... I want to request something though... I want a rematch." Amore states with a serious expression.
"Amore, please be serious and not joke with me... Oh, you're not kidding at all, are you?" Octavia sighs deeply.
"I need a rematch... I can't settle for a draw if It's possible for either side to win. I want to see the true outcome... I'll be waiting on the roof after our classes have finished." Amore states grabbing her case and stands up to leave Octavia to her thoughts.
Octavia stands there with her hand on the door handle, contemplating how she got to this situation. Through that door lies the roof and the opponent she has to face. The stubborn daughter of her old friend, Vinyl Von Scratch and if Vinyl was any example... Amore wouldn't let this go till it was settled. Taking a deep breath and clutching her rapier in the opposite hand she opens the door and steps out onto the academy rooftop. Octavia looks around to see Amore leaning on the balcony rail which overlooks the running track, tennis court and swimming pool of athletic area in the academy.
"It actually looks quite beautiful, you know." Amore states staring at the sunset in the distance.
Octavia walks a little closer to Amore before she is stopped by Amore holding out her hand. Octavia sighs slightly.
"I would agree were it the sun didn't annoy me... While we do not burst into flames upon contact with the sun, it does make our skin feel uncomfortable. Imagine wearing a scratchy, poorly made jumper which feels unbearable in the summer. That's what the sun does to us." Octavia explains holding up her hand to the sky.
"Hey, wait. So you guys don't... You know spar-" Amore cuts herself short when Octavia groans in agitation.
"The next pony to ask me if we bucking sparkle will receive the full personal wrath of the student council president and head on the Von Melody family! To answer your question more calmly... No, we never have nor will we ever sparkle in the mother bucking sunlight." Octavia attaches her rapier to her hip and takes a deep breath.
Amore chuckles slightly. "I knew there was something off with that rumour. What about the old garlic tale?" Amore asks removing herself from the rail and stands opposite Octavia keeping in line with her previous position.
"Amore, it's garlic... Who does like that crap? In terms of its effect on vampires... None I have noticed, but it tastes so damn awful, it's beyond repulsive..." Octavia shivers at the thought of eating garlic.
"Silver and stakes?" Amore asks, taking her sword out of her case and slides the case out of the way.
"I'm pretty sure it would hurt anyone stabbed with a piece of wood... The splinters are especially annoying. Silver is very potent to both us and werewolves. We can't even touch it lest we get burned from the contact, bullets made from silver also halt our regenerative abilities so any wounds still holding a silver bullet will not heal." Octavia draws her own sword and readies herself.
"So if you injected a vampire with silver they would have no chance of survival and die..." Amore sounds serious in her question.
Octavia frowns slightly. "Yes... If a vampire is injected with silver it will burn them from the inside out, not a pleasent death in any sense."
Amore suddenly charges at Octavia who deflects the attempt and follows up with a counter slash which is dodged. The two exchange no end of slashes and swipes as they fight more fiercely than before in the courtyard. Octavia notices the change in Amore's behaviour, even her fighting style is less organised than before, but is still more powerful.
"Amore, what's wrong? You don't seem at all like before when we first fought!" Octavia asks somersaulting backwards to avoid a harsh slash.
"I'm fine, just shut up and fight!" Amore's voice betrays her, sounding distressed and frustrated.
The two slam together to exchange a flurry of lightning fast strikes which ends with both being pushed backwards a distance.
"Amore don't lie to me! I can tell by how you're fighting that something is bothering you!" Octavia yells.
Amore grips her sword handle and practically flies at Octavia who sheathes her rapier preparing for a draw attack. Once Amore reaches her, however, Amore had her own attack planned. Both ponies sped past each other, but stopped only a short distance from each other panting heavily. Amore suddenly gets an X slashed into the front of her uniform which rips her clothes. She grunts as she is forced to fall backwards and lay on the roof floor.
"Looks like it truly was a draw..." Octavia smiles before a V is slashed into the front of her uniform, ripping her clothing like Amore's. Octavia falls backwards onto the floor, her head merely inches away from Amore's.
Both ponies share a satisfied glance followed by a small smile letting each other know they were happy with the outcome.
"You're the second most stubborn mare I've ever met..." Octavia manages to say through her deep panting.
"Yeah... Well, you're the most beautiful mare I have ever met..." Amore replies through her own deep panting.
"W-where in the name of Celestia did that come from..?" Octavia looks at Amore who blushes.
"Will ya just shaddup and take the compliment... Jeez..." Amore pleads to Octavia who chuckles.
"Then thank you for the compliment. Is our deal good now?" Octavia stares up into the sky.
"What's that? You scratch my back, I feed you blood?" Amore asks getting her breath back.
"Yes, I scratch your back and you feed me blood." Octavia smiles at Amore's altered form of the saying.
"Sounds good as I said before... This fight wasn't to change the deal. I just needed this rematch. Please tell me we can fight again. I need an equal or stronger rival."
"You're so much like her..." Octavia mutters.
"What?" Amore asks looking at Octavia.
"Nothing... I can fight you, if you promise to attend your classes without fail and actually learn."
"I can do that... Also, can we lay here for a bit? I'm beat..." Amore admits with a smile.
"I second that motion... The roof feels really nice and cool right now." Octavia smiles back.
Author's Note
Second chapter out with the first. I hope this development chapter was enjoyable along with my many scattered references. I plan to give this fic a full trial week to see how well she performs out in the field. However, this time, whatever her verdict is I will take it. This is sink or swim and I plan for her to be a mother bucking speed boat! With character development and plot structure, of course.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Amore stretches her arms up and lays back on the grass bank next to the running track. She is wearing black shorts that stop halfway up her thighs, a slightly tight looking white shirt and sneakers all of which have crimson trim. Amore stares at the clouds which are passing by and sighs to herself. She then watches other students in aqua blue and dark green P.E kits the same style as her's running around the track doing times.
"Amore, are you seriously going to just lie there all lesson? I figured you would have been more active in P.E at the very least... It's been two weeks since you settled in and you're hardly making an effort." Amore looks to her side to see Octavia towering above her wearing a slightly tighter looking P.E kit in the student council colours.
"I'm just resting my legs. What about you?" Amore asks relaxing into the soft grass.
Octavia sighs and rubs her forehead. "I was away on a student council meeting and have only just got here... you, however, have been here all lesson..."
Amore sits up clearly knowing she wont get to be lazy while Octavia is here. "Okay, okay I'll do stuff... If I run a few laps will that get you off my back?"
"Fifty." Octavia states using a blank serious expression.
"Excuse me? I said a few, not a bucking marathon." Amore looks annoyed.
"Fifty laps around the track or no lunch today." The grey mare shows no signs at all of backing down.
"Ugh... Fine, I'll run fifty..." Amore gets up and starts to walk over to the track starting line.
Amore reluctantly begins jogging around the track with the others who are still running. After around twenty laps she was joined by Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange who ran either side of her.
"So the prez has you working like a slave for being lazy?" Aqua Streak states with a slightly annoyingly cheerful tone.
"I was just resting, you know?" Amore defensively states.
"Don't you think she has been very harsh on you the past two weeks? I mean... She is always bossing you around, Amore." Scarlet Orange comments not looking happy.
"Octavia is how she is. I know I'd never change her." Amore smiles as she speeds up.
Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange share a pained expression before slowing down to let Amore get far ahead of them.
"She is clearly being used... Why can't we just do it now?" Aqua Streak asks staring at Amore in the distance.
"We don't have everything we need yet... Give it some more time, please." Scarlet Orange pleads to Aqua Streak who nods.
Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange are getting changed back into their normal academy uniforms which are aqua blue. Aqua Streak wears a pissed expression as she straightens up her blazer.
"I still think she is no good like our report states... It's our mission to purge her from this world." Aqua streak packs her P.E uniform into a gym bag.
"I know what our mission is... I just want to have all the facts first." Scarlet Orange states as she packs her own gym bag.
As Aqua Streak is about to speak they can hear soft moaning coming from the shower stalls nearby. Looking at each other in confusion they decide to sneak over to a nearby stall to try and peek in at who might be in the stalls. Scarlet Orange blushes a deep shade of scarlet at the sight they saw.
In the corner of the stall is Amore and Octavia in a position which has Amore pinned to the stall wall, neck exposed and Octavia playfully sucking on her neck. Amore has a distinct blush across her face combined with an expression of pleasure.
"M-must you make this session such a tease..." Amore squeaks as Octavia sucks more softly then she did before in the canteen.
"Oh? You seemed disappointed before at how quickly it was over. I thought you would enjoy a more... Teasing approach in my feeding methods." Octavia smirks as she licks Amore's bite wound.
Amore coos with delight, but attempts to muffle her noises through Octavia's mane.
"I know... If someone hears us they will think we are up to no good and having fun... Like dirty fun." Amore blushes deeper.
Octavia begins sucking again after a small break and playfully sucks Amore's blood again being a little more rough.
"If you didn't make such obvious moans and coos we would be able to do this in the room... I swear you have some weird kinks enjoying being fed on by a vampire. Plus if you dislike my methods that much I will just find another blood bank... I'm sure there would be no end of guys wanting my attention." Octavia states shifting back from Amore.
"Huh? Done already?" Amore pouts again displeased with the length again.
"No. I'm simply stopping if you don't want to let me feed on you anymore." Octavia folds her arms.
"H-hold on, I never said that... I just... I like it okay... I was just saying for the sake of saying, you know?" Amore pleads not moving her position.
"You are such hard work... Fine, hold still then and try to keep those noises down." Octavia states going back to her previous feeding position with Amore.
Scarlet Orange holds her nose and promptly exits the locker room swiftly with Aqua Streak not far behind.
The pair finally stop running when they reach a bench on the academy campus near the gardening club green house.
"D-did you see that! T-they were all, like... up in each others faces and sucking blood and shit! What the fuck is with them!" Aqua Streak rants trying to catch her breath.
"They were... It looked like... Amore was enjoying it... W-what kind of pony enjoys that kinda stuff?" Scarlet Orange is still holding her nose.
"She is being used! It's clear Octavia is using something against Amore. Blackmail maybe or perhaps a vampire mind control spell!" Aqua Streak sits on the bench and sprawls out exhausted.
Scarlet Orange takes a deep breath. "Okay... I'm convinced now. Octavia is just as evil as our leader said she is. If Amore is truly under that witches thumb then, as her friends, we have to purge the vampire." Scarlet Orange takes on a more serious tone.
Aqua Streak stands up and cracks her knuckles. "If we are finally doing this I'm pretty sure we will need our equipment... Just remember dear sister. We must purge Octavia for the sake of the order... However, Amore is our friend now, so we have to save her from that vampire bitch as soon as possible." Aqua Streak states as they start to walk off towards their room.
Amore and Octavia are walking past the running track on the path beside the grassy bank Amore was laying on earlier.
"You will choke on your food if you continue to eat so fast..." Octavia states with concern.
"Na, I'll be fine. Speaking of lunch, how much longer do we have?" Amore asks resting her hands behind her head.
Octavia checks her watch and sighs. "We still have two hours till our next lesson. It's maths by the way..."
Amore groans and puts her arms down. "Just great... You know how I feel about all those numbers..."
"You have to go, otherwise we wont spar. That was the arrangement after all, Amore." Octavia states sighing deeply.
"Stop right there vampire scum!" A loud female voice yells from the academy rooftop.
Amore and Octavia stop and look up towards the rooftop railing to see two silver cloaked ponies standing together. Their cloaks hide their faces and most of their bodies bar their hooves.
"What the hay..?" Amore asks looking at them very confused.
The two ponies look at each other and nod before making a starting pose, they then take deep breaths.
Amore's eyes suddenly go wide and her mouth drops. "Tavi... Level with me here... Please tell me you're not seeing what I am..." Amore swallows hard.
"Amore, as much as I'd love to fulfill your request... I can very much see what you can... Nor are we about to like what comes next..." Octavia sighs deeply and rubs her forehead.
Music begins to play from nowhere as the pair begin their song .
Prepare for trouble!
Make it double!
To protect the world from devastation!
To unite all peoples within our nation!
To denounce the evils of truth and love!
To extend our reach to the stars above!
Aqua!
Orange!
Team Silver Hydra, blast off at the speed of light!
Surrender now, or prepare to fight!
Meowth! That's right!
Amore starts walking over to a nearby tree and Octavia looks at her in confusion.
"Amore! Where are you going?!" Octavia yells while looking annoyed.
"Fuck this shit, I'm out. I'll be over here while you deal with them... I do not have the capacity needed to process what in the name of Celestia I just saw." Amore leans her case against the tree and sits down.
The two mares who appeared naming themselves 'Aqua' and 'Orange' jump down to land a little distance from Octavia.
"Why do you do this to me, Amore?" Octavia sighs.
"Hey, don't ignore us! We are the ones you should be concerned about..." Orange yells at Octavia who redirects her attention to the pair.
"Yeah, we're here to put an end to your vampire terror and free that poor soul from your control." Aqua states defiantly.
Amore opens one eye with a grunt and looks annoyed. "Have you been collecting a harem or something Tavi?" Amore asks shifting her position.
Octavia groans and draws her rapier. "No! Why in the world would I collect such a thing? What kind of mare do you think I am, Amore?!" Octavia turns back to the pair and grits her teeth.
"Someone is getting edgy..." Aqua comments.
"Shut up! Don't put ideas in Amore's head! If you two are from the Order of Light then I have no choice, but to put you down here." Octavia readies herself in her standard battle stance.
Aqua draws a pair of silver daggers while Orange brings out a crossbow from under her robe. Aqua charges at Octavia who meets her head on. The two exchange a couple of blows before Octavia dodges a few crossbow bolts from Orange. Aqua rolls up to Octavia and attempts to kick her legs out from under her, but Octavia jumps back out of the way. When Octavia lands, her left leg is hit by a crossbow bolt and she is brought to one knee. Amore can hear Octavia scream in pain as the wound sears and burns where the silver crossbow bolt is stuck in Octavia's foreleg. Aqua charges up to Octavia seeing her chance to strike and aims to finish her in one double swipe.
Octavia closes her eyes waiting for the death blow, because she was too hasty and didn't watch both her opponents. That blow, however, never came and when Octavia opened her eyes she could see Amore standing in front of her blocking both Aqua's daggers with her longsword.
"Sorry about bailing on ya, Tavi. I thought you could handle these two by yourself, but I don't want you to shoulder everything." Amore admits as she harshly kicks Aqua in the stomach sending her flying backwards.
"Amore! We're trying to help you! Can't you see that vampire witch is controlling you!" Orange pleads as she helps up Aqua.
Aqua takes down her hood in frustration to reveal she is none other then Aqua Streak. She rubs her stomach and groans looking at Amore in confusion. "We're your friends dumb ass, why are you so content with being her puppet?! All she wants you for is to feed on you!"
Amore spins her sword around and sticks it in the ground before kneeling next to Octavia and removing the silver crossbow bolt. "Seriously, like no pony saw that obvious plot twist with your so painfully obvious code names..? References and shitty names aside... I'm not Octavia's puppet... I could leave her side any time I wanted to. I'm not bound here by any sort of mystic mumbo jumbo." Amore stands back up and picks up her sword.
"Then why side with that blood sucker?!" Aqua screams.
"Yeah, why do you protect her?!" Orange demands taking down her hood to reveal Scarlet Orange.
Amore takes a deep breath and sighs. "Because... We got a thing going, you know. We're friends, but there are special things between us that only we do... I can't expect you two to understand, but at least try to not judge it..." Amore asks walking towards them.
Aqua Streak readies her daggers. "No! I can never understand it! If you intend to side with her then I will have to put you down! Don't you see how that makes us feel? We have orders Amore!"
"Please, don't make us fight the one good friend we have had since joining the order... We don't want to kill you." Scarlet Orange pleads.
Amore grows a wide grin. "Just try it... If you want to kill Octavia so badly, you will have to kill me first!" Amore sprints to appear in front of Scarlet Orange making her stumble.
Using the confusion Amore kicks Scarlet Orange's crossbow out of her hands and uses a second harsh kick to send her flying across the floor. Aqua Streak then attempts to slash and stab Amore, but is only blocked, repelled or counter attacked. After a few minutes of toying with her, Amore decides to cut both Aqua Streak's arms deep making her drop the daggers. She then preforms a somersault flip kick hitting Aqua Streak in the chin causing her to stumble backwards and using her lack of balance Amore finishes her with a harsh kick to the stomach. The impact forces Aqua Streak to fly backwards and into the academy wall to crack it slightly, before falling onto the ground and groaning.
"You guys... I don't know what this 'Order of Light' thing is, or do I know your history with vampires. What I do know is that Octavia, Scarlet and you are important to me... While I won't kill you two for attacking her, I won't hesitate to drill that into you over and over till you learn it... I wont lose another friend to anyone..." Amore walks over to the tree and puts her sword away, before putting the case back on her back. She then goes and picks up Octavia who is about to protest slightly, but decides against it when she sees Amore's serious expression. The pair head to the academy infirmary to fix up Octavia, while leaving Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange to their thoughts.
Octavia is lying on an infirmary bed while Amore is sitting in a chair beside the bed. Octavia sighs and looks at Amore.
"I was worried that you would't make it in time back there..." Octavia admits.
Amore shakes her head. "I took them lightly given their intro, but this 'Order of Light' appear to have vampire specific weapons... I'm sorry I let my guard down. You got hurt because of that." Amore sighs sadly.
Octavia takes a deep breath. "It's alright... I was hoping to avoid the conversation about them till it was absolutely unavoidable. I guess that wont be possible now."
"I will explain." Principal Flutterbat enters the room and walks over to the pair.
The pair turn their attention to Principal Flutterbat whose playful demeanour has completely disappeared, replaced by a serious expressionless version of her normal self.
"The two ponies known as Aqua and Orange... Also known on the academy charter as Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange, belong to a faction of vampire hunters known as 'The Order of Light'. Their sole purpose in life is to see any and all supernatural creatures purged from Equestria. Needless to say, it would appear Octavia was their target this time... I plan to do my own personal interrogation of them soon after I'm done here. The Order of Light is headed by the powerful 'Van Apple' family... Their history is long and bloody with a tragic dispute at its core... Many tales are spun of how the order came to be, but only one is the real beginning. I'd love to tell you the tale as, I, myself have a hand in it's telling. However, the main heroine of the story is yet to appear and I plan to not steal her spotlight. Please continue to look out for each other as the days go on. I fear this wont be the last encounter you have with The Order of Light." Principal Flutterbat explains before swiftly exiting the infirmary.
Amore sighs deeply and looks at Octavia's leg which has just about healed with the silver crossbow bolt removed. "I'm sorry... I let my guard down because I thought nothing of the encounter... For once me being lazy nearly got you killed-"
"Not another word, Amore Sânge Von Scratch! I nearly died because I underestimated my opponents. It was my lax judgement which put both of us in danger... I wont hear another word of your selfish blaming when no pony else blames you for anything, It was my fault and that's that. Just go back to your tomboy, cocky, unruly self already... You seem strange when you act all educated and responsible." Octavia states with a heavy sigh and warm smile.
Amore nods her head and sits back slightly relaxed. "I can do that, Tavi. So what's next for today?"
"Did you do that homework I went through with you?" Octavia asks relaxing back against the infirmary bed pillow.
"Oh... was that for today..? Shit..." Amore swallows hard and chuckles.
"If I wasn't still getting better I'd beat your ass right now..." Octavia admits looking at Amore who simply shows her a cocky grin.
"I'd likely enjoy it, you know that right?" Amore states smiling stupidly.
Octavia rolls her eyes and sighs deeply. "You're bloody hopeless, Amore... You will never learn anything..."
Octavia allows herself a small grin at Amore's normal antics which she has come to like quite a bit.
The sun is slowly falling below the horizon as night falls upon Armonia. On the railing of the academy rooftop sits a pure white Unicorn mare with an electric blue mane and tail. She wears a slightly tight pure white tank top, blue shorts and electric blue hoodie. Around her neck is a pair of white and blue headphones. Principal Flutterbat walks up to the railing leaning on it sighing deeply.
"I did wonder when you would make an appearance... She is so much like you, it's a headache..." Principal Flutterbat states rubbing her forehead.
"Ha, sounds about right. I noticed our old friends came out to play again. I'm still on my little vacay. Just paying a visit to see how she is doing." The mysterious mare stands up.
"You haven't changed, have you..? You're still the reckless, unruly, tomboy ruffian you were back then..."
"You know it, Flutters. You can expect the same from her though. I've watched her grow up from afar. She has a lot of spirit, like her mother." The mare walks off the railing and falls a little before spreading her vampire bat-like wings and flying off into the distance.
"Ugh... I'm going to need a drink..." Principal Flutterbat sighs as she walks to the exit of the rooftop.
Author's Note
I hope you all enjoyed this fun chapter. Nothing like a few references and a 'mysterious' guest to wet your appetite. Next chapter will increase the fun and create some development. Look forward to it!
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Secret Trips and Hidden Kicks
Octavia stands in the shower, her head lifted up towards the falling water, her eyes closed deep in thought. 'What is wrong with me? Why do I feel like this given what she said?' Octavia lowers her head and opens her eyes before turning off the shower and sighing deeply. She then grabs a towel and wraps it around her as she leaves the bathroom to enter the bedroom.
Octavia looks at Amore's bed and wears a sad expression. "What are you up to..?" Octavia shakes her head and grabs another towel to start drying her hair as she looks through her underwear drawer. She sifts through many different panties before settling on a cute pair and lays them on her bed.
Octavia finishes drying her hair as what Amore said to her after class plagues her mind.
Octavia and Amore are leaving the V&P living etiquette classroom together before Amore stops them.
"Hey, umm I gotta go meet some friends for something they have planned, again. I'll be back sometime tonight, is that cool?" Amore asks smiling awkwardly.
"What about our evening session?" Octavia asks clearly sad.
Amore shifts awkwardly and bites her lip. "I'll be back before then, I think. I really need this."
Octavia sighs deeply and nods, eliciting a hug from Amore before she runs off.
Octavia slips on her panties before laying back on her bed and sprawling out. "She really needs this..? What is she on about? It's been like this since Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange were allowed to stay under their names so long as they behaved. The pair claim to have cut most of their ties with The Order of Light... Amore trusts them, so I suppose it's alright. Still, since they came back Amore has been running off after class most days for the past two weeks... She has been here about a month and a week..." Octavia sits up suddenly and slaps her cheeks.
"What am I worried for?! It's not like I give a damn what Amore does in her spare time, who she is with... Who she dates... Who she..." Octavia shakes her head violently as she pictures Amore with stallions.
Octavia flares out her wings and groans in frustration. "No, no, no, no! Amore is not like that! She would tell me if she started dating... I hope... Oh Celestia, what is going on inside you, Octavia..?" Octavia walks over to her wardrobe and opens it to stare into the mirror on the back of the right side door.
Octavia inspects herself including her slightly larger bust size. "Hmm I've grown... I'm kidding myself... I do care who she is with, what she does and etc. We're not exactly immortal. I mean, sure vampires live a long time, but we can still die... How long will Amore live..." Octavia sighs deeply and stares at her reflection sadly.
Octavia frowns and takes a deep breath. "I'll find out nothing sitting here feeling miserable for myself. I'm going to do something about this!" Octavia takes out a fresh Armonia academy uniform in her student council colours to put on. After putting on her stockings she grabs her phone making sure it's fully charged and leaves the room, her eyes filled with purpose.
It doesn't take Octavia long to locate Amore who is hanging out with Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange on a bench by the front academy gate. She manages to get close enough in range so she can eavesdrop on them with her vampire hearing.
"It was such a blast last night! They really like us~" Scarlet Orange says happily.
"I know, right? You can blow like no tomorrow, Orange." Aqua Streaks states.
Octavia blushes somewhat at that comment. "What in the name of Celestia is she on about?"
"True dat, but you can rock those strings like a badass." Amore states jumping up and stretching.
Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange also stand up and start to follow Amore who begins walking out of the academy gates.
"Where are they going? Are they leaving the campus?" Octavia mutters as she slyly follows the trio within the shadows.
The trio make their way into the forest all the way to a small clearing which has a hidden shed-like garage which Aqua Streak opens. After a few minutes Aqua Streak drives out of the garage a convertible vehicle to which Scarlet Orange rides shotgun and Amore sits in the back. Aqua Streak then begins to drive it out into the forest path which leads up to the academy and the town on the edge of the Everfree forest.
Octavia takes to the skies so she can follow them. "What purpose do they have in Ponyville..? I don't like the looks of this..." Octavia notices the sun is dropping quickly as they begin their journey to Ponyville.
After following them for thirty minutes Octavia lands in a nearby tree as the trio drive around and park in the car park of a bar. Ponyville looks quite more developed then Octavia remembers. Not by much though. More roads and bright lights, but still a small town. The trio exit the convertible and lock it up as they head into the bar. Octavia jumps down from the tree and straightens out her uniform as she starts to walk over to the bar herself.
"Hey, you look like a sweet thing." A random male pony's voice states from behind.
Octavia rolls her eyes and turns around to see a group of three Earth Pony males, clearly drunk.
"How can I help you, gentlecolts?" Octavia asks politely.
"Get a load of the posh mouth on her." The second Earth Pony states.
"Bet it could do some amazing things on the side." The third comments, which makes Octavia scoff in disgust.
The first quiets down his mates before speaking. "I was just wondering if you would like to entertain us for the evening?"
"I've better things to do then hang around with such... Disgusting ponies..." Octavia turns to walk away.
The second Earth Pony grits his teeth and attempts to grope Octavia's ass. Hardly getting anywhere near his objective Octavia grabs and breaks his wrist without hesitation. She then flips him hard onto the floor. The third shouts at Octavia and goes to avenge his friend, but only succeeds in getting a harsh hoof to the stomach and being put onto the floor.
"You stuck up posh bitch!" The first Earth Pony pulls a knife on Octavia and tries to stab her.
Octavia slides past his knife, grabs his arm and not only breaks his wrist, but twists his arm to break his elbow joint as well. She then grips his neck and holds him up off the floor.
"Look you piece of shit... I'm not in the mood to buck around with the likes of you... I make this warning only once, if you and your pals wish to get back up and evoke the full wrath of the Von Melody family... By all means. I wont, however, let you live next time... I'm busy, so if you will, buzz off you pests!" Octavia throws the first Earth Pony onto the floor to his friends.
Octavia straightens her uniform again and enters the bar sighing heavily.
As Octavia enters the bar, she can see it has an interesting layout. As you enter the bar the serving counter is directly opposite you. To the left on a slightly lowered platform are two pool tables with ponies of various races playing games on them. To the right is an area of tables and chairs so you can sit and listen to music being played on the stage. Currently on the stage is a DJ stand at the back with a microphone at the front. Looking around Octavia cannot find Amore or the other two. Sighing deeply she makes her way to the bar where she sits down.
"A new face I see. What can I do for you, my dear?" A calm, relaxing gentleman like tone asks Octavia making her look forwards at the bartender.
The bartender is wearing a gentleman like outfit which has mainly red with an accent of black for its design. On his head is an interestingly shaped hat with a feather in it and on his hands are black leather gloves. His coat is a dark red while his mane and tail are a silver colour. His eyes are also a dark red.
Octavia pauses slightly unsure about the colt. "Umm I shall have a... Martini perhaps?"
"Sure, you come here for the trio that have been becoming very popular here?" The gentleman asks, mixing Octavia's drink.
"Excuse me, but what trio do you mean? Octavia asks curious.
The bartender places Octavia's drink on the counter and smiles. "Well, they showed up little over two weeks ago. The blue and orange mares are regulars, but they brought an interesting friend with them this time. Since she started coming here my customer count has definitely increased." The bartender cleans a few glasses while he talks.
"So... What do they do for you here?" Octavia asks sipping her surprisingly delicious Martini.
The crowd of ponies suddenly start clapping and whistling at the stage catching Octavia's attention as a dark blue male Pegasus stands atop it holding a separate microphone. He wears a long black trench coat and jeans with a blue T-shirt. His mane and tail are a black with dark blue streaks, his eyes are the same dark blue.
"Welcome ladies and gentlecolts to our humble bar! We all know why you came here to indulge in our alcohol and buzzing atmosphere. So, without further adieu allow me to introduce the mare and her two friends you came here to admire! I proudly introduce AMR-3 and her entourage!" The announcer jumps off the stage as Octavia's eyes widen to the three mares who take the stage.
To Octavia's surprise Amore takes the place behind the DJ stand wearing the same outfit she did when they first met, minus her jacket. Aqua Streak takes up the microphone stand with a guitar, wearing an outfit similar to Amore's but with an aqua blue open hoodie. Scarlet Orange is oddly holding a saxophone, wearing a cute orange dress with black accents and black tights.
"Sup, my homies! How is everyone doing tonight?! Amore shouts out to the crowd who cheers in response. Amore is using the blood red headphones with the DJ stand.
"Who wants to get it on tonight?!" Aqua Streak prompts the crowd who let out another cheer.
Amore spins some discs and smiles widely at her adoring fans. Taking a deep breath Amore and Aqua start up the song with Amore providing the beat to Aqua Streak's guitar. Aqua Streak and Amore provide the vocals.
There's a stranger in my bed,
Pictures of last night
Last Friday night
Last Friday night
Last Friday night
This Friday night
Trying to connect the dots
Pictures of last night
Last Friday night
Last Friday night
Last Friday night
Last Friday night
This Friday night
AMR-3
Scarlet Orange then comes to life and blows out an unexpected tune from her saxophone. After the crowd chants Amore's introduced name.
Last Friday night
Last Friday night
Last Friday night
Last Friday night
[Clapping] Whohoo!
The crowd cheer and whistle as the trio finish their song and Amore throws on a record to keep the vibe flowing. Aqua Streaks and Scarlet Orange enter behind the stage to put the instruments away while Amore jumps off the stage and heads to the bar for a drink. Upon reaching the bar she puts her headphones around her neck and orders an orange juice.
"You seemed to be having fun tonight AMR-3." The bartender prompts Amore with a smile.
"Yep, doing this is so much fun and the bits are good. You're quite the generous employer." Amore states taking several swallows of her juice.
"I'm glad to provide such a talent with a place of practice. Any plans after you head home?" The bartender asks glancing at Octavia beside Amore, whom she hasn't noticed.
Amore looks at the clock above the bar and sighs. "I'm likely going to be later then I said I'd be to my roommate... I've been doing this in secret from them since we started and haven't really been able to tell 'em..." Amore admits looking sad.
"Why not? Surely she is a mare you can trust?" The bartender puts away a few glasses and pours himself a whiskey.
"She is, really. I do trust her a lot. She has taken very good care of me since she took me in. It's just... We do this special kinda thing in the evening before we sleep. She really needs it and I so badly enjoy it, likely more than a normal pony should. She means a lot to me despite my fillyhood growing up... She is also freaking hot." Amore blushes finishing her orange juice.
The bartender smiles and pours Amore a shot glass of whiskey. "So, you could say you have feelings for this roommate of yours? She sounds like more than just that to me."
"Vinnie... I guess you could say that, yeah. She and I are from different walks of life though... It'd never work. She likely thinks I have a coltfriend anyway with how secretive I'm being." Amore swirls the shot glass around while talking.
Octavia smiles slightly and sighs inwardly knowing it's exactly what she thought. Vinnie smiles and gives Octavia another Martini. "Let's say... It could work and you wanted to give it a try to see if what you feel deep down is real or not... Would you?" Vinnie asks finishing off his whiskey glass and begins cleaning it.
"I... Truth be told I just want to grab her and kiss the lips of that uptight, posh, classical, son of a bitch mare-" Amore stops herself and looks at Vinnie, weirdly cocking her head to the right. "How did you know my roommate is a mare?"
"I believe that is 'daughter of a bitch' actually." Octavia comments which makes Amore freeze in her place and swallow hard.
Amore slowly turns around and her mouth flies wide open as she finally realises Octavia is sitting beside her. Octavia finishes her second drink, turns to Amore and closes her mouth gently.
"That's exactly what I thought. I followed you shortly after my shower. I had to beat up three drunk morons outside. You're exactly as much of a hassle as Vinyl. You're also just as good of a DJ. Finally... If what you said is true, I'd like to discover if my own feelings are what they seem." Octavia fires off answers as if reading Amore's mind.
Amore simply stares at Octavia unable to move, speak or do anything. After several seconds which seemed like hours, Amore takes a deep breath, downs the shot of whiskey, grabs Octavia's blazer collar and, as gently as she can without it looking like two trucks smashed together, slammed her lips into Octavia's.
Both mares closed their eyes and indulged the senses they felt from each other. Octavia draped her arms over Amore's shoulders as they both relaxed more into the kiss, which became very passionate. After several test samples of just lips Amore decided to up the ante and slide her tongue slowly into Octavia's mouth. To her surprise, it was welcomed like being invited into a grand castle which tasted like saliva and Martini all mixed into one. Amore explored Octavia's mouth, poking her roof or teeth. Especially Octavia's vampire fangs which seemed to have Amore's interest. After a minute of exploration Octavia decided to bring Amore's attention to her tongue which she used to enter into a unique dance with Amore's tongue. The two passed the lead back and forth for several minutes, exiting and entering each other's mouth, oblivious to anything around them.
Vinnie simply smiled, left two more drinks for them and disappeared to serve other customers. Once the pair finished their first kiss they parted as slowly as they could to savour the taste. A thin trickle of saliva hung between them before being cleaned up by Octavia. Amore opened her eyes, her heart practically beating out of her chest and finding she could barely muster any words.
"Awesome..." Amore states still in a state of bliss.
"I've been around for a while... It's fair to say while unfortunately not my first, you have been the best kisser I've known." Octavia warmly comments as they make no effort to break their embrace.
Amore clears her throat so she can talk. "Tavi... Since arriving at Armonia and meeting you things have just fallen into place. I've found out more about my mother then ever before. I've already made great friends and was accepted for once in my life by ponies other then my guardian. I know I feed you my odd blood... That it tastes like freshly-picked apples and is sweeter than normal blood. I know how much you love it. Despite how much we seem so very different I cant help, but be so attracted to you. You're the only mare who is more mysterious than me. I want to know everything... Embrace everything... Be everything for you... I don't know when in the past month I started feeling like this, but I badly want to give this a shot..." Amore tries to explain which makes Octavia smile.
"Amore... Since fighting you and drinking your blood I've had... A deep feeling growing inside me. Spending time with you, watching you, teaching you... The more time I spend with you the greater the feeling grows. It's no small thing for me to admit I might have a thing for you. Feeding for me has become more then a simple need... Your flavoursome blood brightens up my pallet and makes me look forward to feeding. Knowing how much you enjoy being fed on and the adorable coos, moans and other noises you make for me lighten up my day that I'm able to do that for you. I love it, Amore. I'd love to see how far we could go together, however, you realise The Order of Light wont let up... You will have to deal with them as well with me." Octavia explains as she strokes Amore's cheek.
"Meh, we'll show 'em who's boss, right Tavi?" Amore smiles which makes Octavia kiss her softly.
"Then we're giving 'us' a shot. I love you, Amore." Octavia nuzzles Amore's nose.
"You're acting so unlike you... It's cute, but just weird. I'd not want you to act that differently towards me, Tavi." Amore jokes as she nuzzles back.
"Oh, trust me. I'm not changing that much. I promise you that." Octavia comments.
Vinnie comes back to address Amore. "Sorry to interrupt your touching moment, but if you wanted I'd not mind if you played one more song of the evening. If you want to." Vinnie offers Amore who looks at Octavia.
"Fine, one more song. Then we're going back." Octavia sighs as she gives in.
Amore kisses Octavia's cheek playfully before leaving her embrace, downing her whiskey and rushing to the stage where Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange are talking.
Octavia sighs deeply and sips her Martini. "You are still such a sly bastard, Valentine."
"Oh, I thought you had forgotten about me, Lady Von Melody." Valentine smiles showing his vampire fangs more clearly.
"Still... Thank you for looking after her... I guess she does need this, however, she also needs to study." Octavia states before turning to face the stage.
The trio have set up a drum kit at the back where the DJ stand was which has Scarlet Orange sitting at it spinning some drum sticks around her fingers. Amore is holding the guitar at the front of the group while Aqua Streak is between them to the right with a bass guitar.
"I hope you're all ready for the ending song of tonight. Your gracious host Mr. Valentine offered us to play one last song before we head out. I've been working on this one for the past week or so since I met a special mare. We hope you enjoy it!" Amore introduces them and Amore starts off the song with her guitar and provides the vocals.
Brown eyes and lungs are filled up with smoke
You know you wanna
Turn it up
We could
You know you wanna
Turn it up
And when the clock strikes twelve
Turn it up
Turn it up
Amore lets her guitar fade out before the crowd applauds and whistle to their performance. What made Amore smile widely was seeing Octavia clapping for her performance. The trio bow to the crowd before helping put away the instruments for Valentine.
Several minutes later, the group is driving back to the academy, the moon now high in the sky. Octavia and Amore are cuddled up on the back seat of Aqua Streak's car with Amore's head on Octavia's shoulder. Their hands are entwined tightly as Amore snuggles closer under the moonlight, loving Octavia's warmth. Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange look at the pair and sigh gently as they continue their silent journey back to Armonia.
"Oh, the fun you are getting into~ I never would have expected this outcome." The mysterious mare from the academy rooftop sits on a tree branch watching the car gain distance from her.
The mysterious mare chuckles before smiling to herself. "Octy, you're such a naughty mare... Aiming for Amore. I never expected her to meet your, oh so high, expectations." The mare stands up and stretches before flying off.
Author's Note
I hope you all enjoyed this different paced chapter, along with the union of Amore and Octavia. I know many might think it is a bit soon for them to date, but here is my reasoning. They have known each other for a month and a bit. Octavia private teaches Amore what she should of learned in lessons. Amore and Octavia have their feeding sessions. Combine in the fact they live together and spend a lot of time together, I think it's reasonable. Also things will come later which will present the feels box being abused like a mother flipin. So look forward to that. Till next time which will be very soon.
View Online
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
They Arrive on Wings of Silver Bathed in Light
Amore sighs deeply as she stares out the bus window at the mass of skyscrapers and tall buildings around them. Octavia is sitting next to Amore silently reading a novel called 'Dance in The Midst of Midnight'.
"I still don't understand why Principal Flutterbat suddenly organised an academy trip to Manehatten." Amore states stretching before laying back in her seat.
"I believe there are several conventions on for three days this month. These include the Equestrian Gamer, bookworm and fashion conventions." Octavia explains still reading.
Amore sighs and looks at the novel Octavia is reading. "What you reading, Tavi?"
Octavia places a bookmark in the novel and turns to Amore. "It's the latest work of an author called 'Frozen Quill'. It details the adventure of a vampire and normal pony as they discover their own love for each other. So far it is very invigorating and intriguing."
"Sounds mushy and stupid..." Amore states groaning.
"The main pair are lesbians." Octavia comments as she puts the book away in her messenger bag.
Amore glances at Octavia then back out the window. "I might give it a look later... Speaking of which, we have been dating for three weeks now and I wondered how you felt about it?"
Octavia folds her arms. "Want to break up already?"
Amore snaps to face Octavia and waves her hands defensively. "No! That is not what I meant... I just wanted to know how you feel about it. I mean, I personally enjoy how much closer we are getting and the kissing... Especially the kissing..." Octavia cuts off Amore sighing slightly.
"I'm enjoying it just as much, okay? Don't be so paranoid. My love for you isn't so flimsy as to die out that easily." Octavia admits which makes Amore relax.
The bus suddenly comes to a stop and Principal Flutterbat gets up and stretches.
"Okay, we're here! If everypony would like to exit the bus in an orderly fashion I will let you all know how this trip will work~" Principal Flutterbat explains seemingly back to her playful self.
Everypony exits the bus and stands in an organised collective in front of Principal Flutterbat.
"Alright, listen up because I'm only saying this once. The address for our hotel has been sent to all your phones so remember it. You may do whatever you want to while we're here for the conventions so long as it is legal... Any students who participate in any illegal activity will be expelled or worse. I hope you all have your passes and enjoy the conventions. Go, have fun!" Principal Flutterbat explains before heading to the nearest bar.
"Ugh... Our Principal has a problem with alcohol..." Octavia groans rubbing her temple.
Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange join up with the pair as they start to explore Manehatten.
"So, where are we going first, Amore?" Aqua Streak asks with her hands behind her head.
"Hmm I'm not sure. I kinda wanted to check out Equestrian Gamer the first day. How does that sound, Tavi?" Amore asks Octavia who thinks for a second.
"Hmm I have no problem with that. We have to check out the Bookworm convention tomorrow though. There will be an author there I want to see." Octavia states as they head towards a large skyscraper.
Amore rushes into the plaza of the skyscraper and marvels around at the wide range of games being shown at the Equestrian Gamer. Octavia walks beside Amore and sighs deeply.
Octavia looks around and behind them. "Any idea where Aqua and Scarlet went? I swear they were just behind us."
"Hmm? I don't know, I thought they were still behind us... What do you think about this convention?" Amore asks excitedly.
"Hmm it's very... Colourful. I'm sure there is much here to keep you-" Octavia cuts herself short and quickly glues herself to a nearby demonstration of a musical themed game.
"Octavia? What are you... Oh." Amore follows Octavia to see her watching the demonstration for Classical Hero V.
Octavia recomposes herself and looks at Amore. "Sorry, I've recently looked into this game series because of it's classical nature..."
Amore chuckles, but soon stops when a pony wearing a black suit walks up to them.
"Excuse me, are you Lady Von Melody?" The pony asks.
"Yes, what is it you require?" Octavia replies confused.
"The sponsor of this convention would like to see both you and Miss Von Scratch on the top floor. If you would like to follow me I shall lead you there." The pony states as he begins to walk off in the direction of an elevator.
Octavia gives a look to Amore which elicits her to nod and follow without question.
After several minutes of following the pony up the elevator to the top floor, he leads them to a set of double doors. The pony opens the doors and the pair enter the large well decorated room. Opposite the door as you walk in is a desk at the end of the room. Along the right side wall is cabinets holding several awards for various things. A little way from the awards is a sitting area made up of four sofas evenly spaced with gaps between them and a coffee table at its centre. Sitting on the right side sofa is a midnight blue mare, who has wings and a horn. The mare's mane is flowing and seemingly contains glowing lights in her mystical blue mane and tail. Her eyes are also a midnight blue. She wears a regal midnight blue dress with blue tights.
"Ah, Lady Octavia Von Melody. It's a pleasure you are able to join us." The mare states politely to Octavia.
"Likewise, Princess Luna." Octavia bows slightly.
"What the hay is Princess Luna doing here?" Amore bluntly asks, to which Octavia groans.
"Amore, show some respect!" Octavia snaps at Amore which makes Princess Luna giggle.
Amore bows slightly like Octavia, but her attention is stolen by the second mare sitting on the sofa with its back to them. All that can be seen is that they are a white Unicorn with an electric blue mane.
"If I may ask, what makes you summon us-" Octavia is cut short by Amore.
"Who is the mare sitting there?" Amore asks biting her lip unsure of the familiar feeling in her gut.
The mare stands up and turns around to face the pair wearing a smirk which couldn't get any wider.
"I suppose I should introduce her... Octavia knows this mare already, but... Her name is Vinyl Von Scratch." Princess Luna introduces the mare.
"Sup, daughter..." Vinyl states smiling at Amore.
Amore swallows hard and feels her heart start to beat wildly out of control. Before she even knew what she was doing Amore flew off the spot and aimed a punch to Vinyl's face which is easily dodged. Vinyl grabs Amore's arm and spins her around in order to send her back to where she sprinted from, making her roll across the floor.
Octavia walks past Vinyl who is following Amore and sits down next to Princess Luna. She then begins mixing herself a cup of tea.
"They shouldn't make too much mess, right?" Princess Luna asks sighing deeply.
"Given they are mother and daughter... I wouldn't hold your breath, Princess Luna." Octavia comments.
Princess Luna looks at a Earth Pony stallion who takes her side to pour her another cup of tea. "Walter, level with me... What's the amount we're looking at for this little dispute?"
The Earth Pony stallion wears a butler uniform. His coat is a medium brown while his mane and tail are dark brown with blood red streaks. His eyes are also blood red and he has vampire fangs.
"The Von Scratch amount... Times two, Lady Luna." Walter states as kindly as possible.
Princess Luna sighs deeply and sips her tea wearing an annoyed expression.
A pony wearing a lab coat holding a pile of documents presses the elevator button intending on getting in when it comes. To his surprise a bundle of two fighting mares spills out of the elevator, knocking him over spilling his documents. Vinyl stands up and laughs before jumping off a balcony rail up onto the second floor balcony of the room. The room they spilled into looks like a research lab consisting of many technological advancements and experiments. Boards everywhere contain many egg head diagrams and theories.
"Stop running!" Amore screams, frustrated as she scrambles to her feet before running after Vinyl.
Amore finally catches up with her on the second floor and they engage into their third confrontation. Amore and Vinyl exchange heavy handed blows and narrow dodges as they fight each other intently. Vinyl manages to land a kick in Amore's stomach, but her smirk was short lived when Amore two step kicked Vinyl in the face sending her over the balcony. Without thinking Amore jumps off the balcony and uses her own weight to catch up with Vinyl and increase her speed towards the ground.
The pair hit the ground hard with Vinyl taking the brunt of the impact. Amore rolls over onto her back breathing heavily. Vinyl herself is also breathing heavily.
"You... You're filled with spirit... Granted I've been out of shape lately... Hehe that'll teach me to skip the gym." Vinyl jokes while coughing.
"Cut the crap! I know who you are... Hell, your name is the only thing I do know!" Amore begins her rant as she shifts onto her side to look at Vinyl.
"I know you're angry with me... I know you hate me... I can't take back what I've done, but given the circumstances I'd do it all again to keep you safe..." Vinyl explains.
"I spent my entire life only knowing I had a birth mother who abandoned me on the porch of some elderly pony! All I had was a name and a sword left to me on my sixteenth birthday! I don't believe you ever gave a shit!" Amore screams as an explosion is heard somewhere in the lab.
Suddenly the sprinklers come on and begin to drench the pair along with the whole lab. Vinyl grits her teeth and pulls herself up in order to mount Amore and smash their heads together hard, making them both groan in pain. Vinyl keeps their foreheads touching.
"I didn't have a fucking choice! I've spent the last nineteen fucking years in hiding watching you grow up from the shadows like some stalker! I was robbed of my chance to give you a normal upbringing, despite me being a vampire! Things happened, okay?! Things I had no control over and wish I could do over... I watched you fight those two Order of Light mares, I watched you play in that bar as AMR-3... I wanted so badly... To be a proper mother... That was taken from me just like so much was stolen from you!" Vinyl is holding Amore's blazer collar tightly.
Amore simply stares into Vinyl Scratch's magenta eyes, sincere and so sad... Amore knows Vinyl means all she is saying.
"I... I guess... I never thought about the circumstances that might have lead to how you had to leave me... I just thought only of myself without even considering that my parents might actually love me..." Amore sheds a tear which is wiped away by Vinyl.
Vinyl clears her throat and wipes her own face before smiling. "It's not cool to let 'em see a Von Scratch cry. Let's go get a shower and then I will answer what I can of your questions, okay?"
Amore nods, the feeling of anger and frustration turned to guilt in her gut. It feels horrible.
Amore exits the shower feeling much better and refreshed. After drying herself she puts on a robe for now and joins Vinyl who is sitting on the sofa of the top floor guest living quarters. Vinyl passes Amore a regular soda while she drinks a soda can of blood.
"I just want to point out that... I'm no good at this... Being a mother I mean... I guess, at least now you're old enough to look after yourself. You have proved that a lot up till now after the old man died. He was like me, a vampire... I guess The Order of Light targeted him and still had no idea on you." Vinyl explains as she sips some of her soda.
"I see... Who is my father?" Amore asks staring into her soda can.
Vinyl can't help, but chuckle slightly at Amore's question. "You have no 'father' to put it bluntly... One thing they do not teach you in filly and colt sex ed is the possibility of... Magical influences being introduced with intercourse."
"What? Like two mares using some kinda futa magic or something?" Amore states sipping some soda.
"'Vampire futa magic' to be more precise, but I can confidently say that's how you were conceived." Vinyl replies bluntly making Amore spit her drink out.
"W-what?! You mean to tell me I am the offspring of a vampire pony and normal pony who was conceived using vampire futa magic?" Amore asks breathing heavily.
Vinyl struggles for a moment, but nods. "That's exactly what I'm telling you. Although due to certain reasons I am your birth mother. It was going well, you were conceived perfectly. Things happened after that which I had no control over... Your other mother has no idea you exist. It's been very hard to keep contact." Vinyl admits to a stunned Amore.
Amore sits in silence for several minutes even after both their soda cans became empty. Finally discovering she did in fact still have a voice, one question was all that left her lips.
"Is she still alive..? Mother, I mean?" Amore asks looking at Vinyl.
Vinyl sighs deeply and stands up. "She is... Although understand you're not ready to know who she is just yet... I will make more of a direct effort from now on to be involved in your life. If you want me to still be a part of it that is..." Vinyl moves to the bed and puts on a fresh set of clothes which were sent over.
"I do... It's been so long since I've actually had a mother so It'd be awesome if you could come back into my life... I was mad. Buck, I was furious... Now it all just seems so wasted. It kept me going, searching for the answers... Now I have something else to carry on for. Thank you... For looking after me from afar... Mother." Amore stands up and walks over to Vinyl Scratch who hugs her tightly.
"I'm sorry, I'll be better from now on, okay? I have to deal with some things relevant to my duty in the organisation. We will have plenty of chances to catch up later though." Vinyl states before leaving Amore, who lays on the bed and stares at the ceiling.
After an hour Octavia slowly enters the room and closes the door behind her softly. Walking further into the room she sighs inwardly when she spots Amore cuddled up on the bed staring at the wall, deep in thought.
"Amore..." Octavia whispers softly as she puts on the nearby stereo before sliding into bed and cuddling up to Amore, who suddenly snuggles close to her, desperate for her marefriend's warmth.
Octavia runs her fingers softly through Amore's mane and whispers quietly into her ear.
"I take it your encounter with your mother went well... Vinyl is a good mare, of that I can promise you. Anything she had to do she did it with a purpose. Although I may not agree with her on most occasions, I can agree she loves you... Just like I do." Amore relaxes against Octavia and welcomes her tender touch.
"I know you're upset and confused among other emotions that you might not understand... Just remember you don't have to face them alone anymore. We said we would give 'us' a shot. That means everything that comes with it. Princess Luna said that we can use this room for our stay so long as we don't make too much mess." Octavia explains.
Amore chuckles and cuddles closer to Octavia. "I swear you can read minds... It doesn't bother me though... I like it. Can we lay like this for a bit before exploring around?" Amore asks, her voice quiet and soft.
Octavia nods and settles down with Amore. "Of course we can. Just relax and focus on what makes you happy right now." Octavia closes her eyes.
Amore takes a deep breath and focuses on Octavia, her warmth, presence and scent. Amore liked Octavia's scent a lot. She always used an expensive bottle of strawberry scented perfume which lingered on her and anywhere she went. Octavia decided to stick with it after Amore got disappointed when she used a different perfume. Amore smiles to herself and buries her face in the chest of her marefriend, blocking out everything, but the two of them.
Amore is standing at the edge of the skyscraper rooftop staring at her sword which lays on the ledge. Octavia stands beside Amore looking out at Manehatten as it's bathed in moonlight and illuminated by its many window lights and street signs.
"As much as I adore you naked in a robe, I'm glad to see they cleaned your uniform quite quickly." Octavia comments.
"Well... When you mention you're the marefriend of a certain 'Lady Von Melody', motivation seemed to go up a lot for them." Amore smiles and sheathes her sword into the silver case on her back.
"I still can't believe you brought that along... What's more I can't believe that is the first thing you checked when our luggage arrived from the hotel..." Octavia shakes her head.
Amore chuckles and looks up at the moon. "The Order of Light... Will they really not stop till every supernatural is dead... I don't want to lose you, not now..."
Octavia turns to Amore and places her hand on her cheek. "Don't you go changing face on me now... What was it you said, oh so confidently back in that bar? 'We'll show 'em whose boss', I believe were your exact words. I wont let some silver winged zealot take me away from you..."
Amore smiles before bright lights are suddenly shone on the skyscraper from helicopters bearing the hammer and sickle mark. Several lights originated from nearby buildings.
"What the buck?" Amore asks covering her eyes.
"It's the mother fucking Hooviet Union... Bastards have a legion in The Order of Light, tough and persistent are their annoying traits. Along with their fire-power." Vinyl explains suddenly now beside Octavia wearing her signature shades.
"Vinyl, where in the name of Celestia did you even come from?" Octavia asks staring in the direction of the Hooviet Union helicopters.
Vinyl Scratch cocks her head to the left to glance at Octavia who raises her eyebrow in response.
"Octy, level with me. In the few years you bunked with me, when have I ever announced my presence in a room?" Vinyl smiles as Octavia rolls her eyes.
"Correction... When haven't you announced your presence when in a room?" Octavia comments as Princess Luna walks up beside Amore.
"It's begun... The Order of Light are finally showing themselves... Although I wish it was not the Hooviet branch. Vinyl, have they made any threatening advances?" Princess Luna asks, a serious expression on her face.
Vinyl moves her head back to normal and shakes her head. "Not at the moment... Although I suspect, any second now-" Vinyl cuts herself off as she suddenly leans forward on the ledge looking into the distance on the ground.
The other three focus on where Vinyl is looking and Amore's eyes become very wide.
Below on the mysteriously empty streets of Manehattan, a fair distance from the skyscraper are five Hooviet Union T-10 heavy tanks. Standing up out of the front T-10 of the formation is a pitch black Earth Pony male with a bright blood red mane and tail. His eyes are a pale blue with a red scar down his right eye. He wears a long green winter coat with a fur hat bearing the mark of the Hooviet Union, pitch black trousers and black gloves.
A somewhat younger dark grey female Pegasus opens and stands up out of the hatch on the T-10 to the male pony's right. Her mane and tail are dark blue with black streaks while her eyes are a slightly lighter blue. She wears the same uniform as the male Earth Pony.
"Marshal Vladimir! We are approaching the reported operations base of the supernatural order. How shall we proceed?" The Pegasus asks firmly.
Vladimir grows a wide smirk and throws his arm up towards the tower with his hand open. "Let them know just who it is that comes for them this day! Let them know the strength and resolve of the Hooviet Union!" Vladimir orders as he closes his gloved fist tightly.
"At once, Marshal Vladimir! Soldiers, begin your advance and let your voices soar!" The Pegasus orders as she salutes.
Music suddenly starts to come alive from the Hooviet army tanks across all of their frequency channels and the entire Hooviet Union legion start to sing in unison.
Rastvetali yabloni ee grushi Poplily tumani nad rekoy Vykhodila na bereg katyusha Na vysokiy bereg na krutoy (Vykhodila na bereg katyusha Na vysokiy bereg na krutoy) Vykhodila pesnyu zavodila Pra stepnovo, sizovo orla Pra tovo kotorovo lubila Pra tovo chipis’ma beregla (Pra tovo kotorovo lubila Pra tovo chipis’ma beregla) Oity pesnya, pesenka devich’ya Tileti za yasnym sonstsem vsled Ee boytsu na dal’nem pogranich’ye Ot katyushi peredai privet (ee boytsu na dal’nem pogranich’ye Ot katyushi peredai privet) Pust on vspomnit devushku rodnuyu Pust uslyshit, kakona poyot Pust on zemlyu berehzyot rodnuyu Ah lubov katyusha sberezhyot (pust on zemlyu berehzyot rodnuyu Ah lubov katyusha sberezhyot) Rastvetali yabloni ee grushi Poplily tumani nad rekoy Vykhodila na bereg katyusha Na vysokiy bereg na krutoy (Vykhodila na bereg katyusha Na vysokiy bereg na krutoy)
As the Hooviet Union finish their song they reach the tower and begin opening fire which causes much damage to the tower. Vladimir's smile widens greatly as they continue their assault.
Vinyl straightens her shades and takes a deep breath, still staring at the Hooviet Union who are down below.
"Permission to return the declaration of war, Princess Luna?" Vinyl asks, her voice echoing with frustration.
"Permission granted. We all know this mess will be cleaned up by morning, so no need to hold yourself back." Princess Luna states as she walks away back to the rooftop elevator.
Vinyl gets a flip phone out of her pocket and unfolds it to dial a number. She begins cracking her neck when someone picks up.
"Yeah, boss? What can we do for you this wonderful evening, while we are under siege by vampire hunting Hooviet soldiers?" A male pony's voice asks sipping a drink through a straw.
Vinyl smirks. "It's time to get the party started. Give me some bass up in here."
The phone is hung up and put away as Vinyl jumps up onto the ledge and spreads a pair of vampire wings. After a few seconds, a beat begins to play from several hidden speakers all over the skyscraper. Vinyl holds her arms out to bask in the tune as she bounces her head to the beat before falling backwards off the skyscraper. She then, with gleeful enthusiasm, summons a pure metal purple straight sword and cuts one of the many helicopters in half as she continues her descent. A whole battalion of dark figures with vampire wings can be seen diving off the nearby buildings to join the fray, Both in the air and on the ground.
"Oh, I'm so getting in on this party!" Amore exclaims as she throws off her silver case and somersaults over the ledge to make her own descent.
Amore yells in joy as she lands surprisingly into the hold of a helicopter. The Hooviet soldiers look at her in surprise before being beaten with ease and thrown out of the helicopter. Amore then jumps out the side to cut the tail off as she resumes descending, picking up speed to catch up to Vinyl.
"You are so badly my child! Crazy ass mare!" Vinyl playfully yells as she flies around Amore, who is still falling.
"I am loving this beat, mother! How could you ever expect me not to jump into battle at this?!" Amore asks, screaming in joy before Vinyl grabs her arms to land them on a nearby, much smaller skyscraper.
Amore rolls when let go and gets up onto her feet shortly after Vinyl lands beside her. Suddenly three Hooviet helicopters surround them and drop in wave after wave of elite Hooviet soldiers that are in red coats compared to Vladimir.
Vinyl and Amore spin their swords around their hands in unison before smiling at each other. The Hooviet soldiers charge the pair and one by one they are put down without mercy.
"You ain't showing any mercy are ya?" Vinyl comments as she downs another ten Hooviet soldiers.
Amore spin kicks a group of five Hooviet soldiers before two-step kicking another in the face.
"I'm just looking to survive, but of course, I made a promise to Tavi!" Amore states as she somersault kicks a Hooviet soldier in the face.
Vinyl dodges a few bullets before kicking some Hooviet soldiers off the skyscraper.
"Woah, you call her Tavi? My nickname for her is Octy... Kinda ironic two members of the same family shortened her name using opposite ends." Vinyl chuckles as she jumps back to stand near Amore.
Amore somersaults backwards and meets Vinyl the rest of the way, panting heavily.
"I find it kinda funny. Also, how many are there?" Amore asks before a helicopter drops off the grey Pegasus mare from before.
Vinyl taps Amore's shoulder before jumping up and flying off, clearly not seeing the elite Hooviet who just arrived.
"You do not use any vampire powers? Then you are normal pony, yes? Why fight for them when you could do so much good for the order?" The Pegasus asks Amore as she draws closer.
Amore turns her attention to the Pegasus and tightens the grip on her sword handle.
"My reasons are my own! I have someone close to me I desire to protect... I don't care she if is a vampire, just that she is who she is!" Amore states to the Pegasus who throws off her coat.
The female Pegasus is wearing a slightly tight, pitch black, shiny spec ops catsuit. She has two medium sized thin bladed daggers, in sheathes, on her back. just above her ass.
"My name is Major Veronica! If you side with the vampire plague, then you too will be subject to extinction. Think carefully about your next move, child... I did not earn my rank for nothing..." Veronica states as she draws her twin silver daggers.
Amore's expression drops and she tightens the grip even more on her sword.
"Oh, I see how this is... Major means your decently high in the Hooviet ranks, right? So you must be strong..." Amore mutters to herself making Veronica confused.
"Make your choice, Earth Pony. I will not wait all day." Veronica states.
"Shut your fucking mouth!" Amore suddenly yells as she strikes her sword across the ground cutting it.
Veronica is taken aback by the sudden outburst and tenses up into a battle position.
"This was a trip... A nice little three day trip... We were supposed to enjoy ourselves... My mother coming back? Okay, I can handle that... Learning about you jackass bastards? Again, I can handle that... What I can't fucking handle is some Hooviet bitch rolling in here like she fucking owns the place, telling me to pick a side when I've already said whose fucking side I'm on! You are so many fucking things that piss me off right now and I want to cleave your mother bucking skull in two!" Amore screams as she charges Veronica.
As Amore reaches Veronica she attempts a horizontal slash which is ducked under before Amore gets a punch to the gut. Shaking it off Amore knees Veronica in the face and kicks her in the side, sending her rolling to the left. Veronica regains her balance and rolls into her fighting stance.
Not wanting to let her recover Amore charges Veronica again, only this time she is ready for her. Veronica engages Amore in a flurry of light and heavy strikes which sees them moving all over the rooftop.
After several engagements both jump back from each other. The pair have an equal amount of cuts and bruises about their bodies, along with damaged clothing.
Veronica sprints at Amore who seems more exhausted than she does. However, when she reaches her, Amore smiles and slides around the back of Veronica to stab her sword into the Pegasus' lower leg making her lose balance. Amore then grabs and tightly grips Veronica's wings joints.
"W-What are you doing?! Stop!" Veronica pleads, but is obviously ignored as Amore breaks the joints of Veronica's wings causing an intensely sharp pain to course through her body.
What was heard all over the battlefield was that of a loud blood curdling high pitch scream of pure distress and pain. Amore kicks Veronica to the ground and pulls out her sword from the mare's leg.
"I'm not a fucking child... I haven't had that luxury for a long time, bitch." Amore walks over to the rooftop ledge and looks down to see the tanks have been all but destroyed.
The only tank that remains is the head tank and in front of it is Octavia and Vladimir, whom seems to be badly beating Octavia. Amore doesn't hesitate or think of the next step as she leaps over the ledge to begin her descent to the battlefield below.
Vladimir kicks Octavia away from him so she rolls across the floor. Her uniform and body are in bad shape as she has been struggling against the Hooviet Marshal for some time.
"Don't tell me you are giving up already? Puny vampire pony..." Vladimir states raising up his broad sword to strike Octavia.
At that very moment a blood red longsword is slammed into Vladimir's right shoulder and down halfway up the blade into his body. Attached to the sword, still holding onto the handle for dear life, is Amore.
Vladimir screams in anger before grabbing Amore by the arm and swinging her round to hold her up in front of him.
"You dare to defy the Hooviet Union?! Die insolent pony pup!" Vladimir Spartan kicks Amore away from him, sending her reeling into the door of a nearby car, denting it.
Amore coughs up a lot of blood from the impact and lays against the door breathing heavily while Octavia can be seen to her left. She is broken and beaten, not looking at all like her normal self.
Vladimir walks over to Octavia and starts stomping on her. Octavia grunts and groans as she is being beaten with nowhere to go and nothing to do, but stare helplessly at Amore who is also immobile. Finally, Vladimir picks up Octavia and throws her over nearby Amore.
"You vampires never learn... The might of the Hooviet Union cannot be matched! Even as we speak The Order of Light is being replaced by our military prowess and Lady Applejack will soon bow to our Supreme Commander Nikolai!" Vladimir boasts as he cracks his knuckle, the sword still in his shoulder.
Amore gently holds Octavia. Both of them are badly wounded and Octavia is bleeding from her cuts. Amore looks at her hand to see it covered in blood. As she stares at it something deep inside her starts to stir.
"What... The hell..?" Amore mutters to herself as she slowly and hesitantly licks her hand.
Amore suddenly feels a pulse deep inside her and she starts to heat up. Her heartbeat quickens and pulses faster. Amore stands up and holds herself while she tries to figure out what's going on. The only images going through her mind are those including Octavia and the state she is in. Who caused that state and what she so badly wants to do to him. How much she wants to make him pay.
Amore's eyes flicker between aquamarine and blood red while vampire fangs begin to grow in her mouth.
"H-help me, Tavi!" Amore screams as she shivers constantly.
"Puny pony having a breakdown on the battlefield... Allow me to end your misery... After I'm done with you, I will take my time with your friend here..." Vladimir states with a smirk as he pulls out Amore's sword and walks up to her, raising the blade up to slash her.
Amore suddenly holds her hand up and stops the blade dead in its tracks by grabbing it. Vladimir tries countless times to move the sword out of her grip, but cannot move it an inch.
"Octavia... You hurt..." Amore mutters tightening her grip on the blade making her hand bleed.
Vladimir is suddenly kicked backwards directly in the chest causing a cracking noise as he is sent flying into the only working T-10 tank. Amore throws the sword aside and practically flies off the spot towards Vladimir. Rolling to the side he dodges a punch which indents the tank armour and barely scratches Amore's hand.
"What the hell is going on?! You were but a wreck just now!" Vladimir screams as he stands up.
Amore grabs the tank barrel and, with inpony strength, rips the top half of the tank from the treads to wield it as a weapon.
"Bastard!" Amore screams as she whacks Vladimir up into the air causing him to cough up blood.
Amore then jumps and uses the tank half as a baseball bat to slam into Vladimir with all her might. Feeling his world collapse around him, Vladimir is sent flying down the street of Manehatten away from the tower. It is unclear how far he was sent flying, only that after Vladimir was reported beat the Hooviet Union pulled out of Manehatten with lightning speed.
Amore is breathing heavily as she throws the tank half away. Octavia is weakly standing and walks over to Amore.
"Amore... It's okay now, they are gone..." Octavia whispers into Amore's ear, who collapses to her knees. Tears flooding her eyes.
Octavia wraps her arms around Amore, shrugging off the pain. Using her hand she turns Amore's head to face her and stroke her cheek. Octavia can see Amore's eyes are mismatched, her left is aquamarine while her right is blood red.
"Your eyes are still so beautiful... Just like the rest of you." Octavia smiles as Amore gently smirks before falling unconscious.
Amore opens her eyes to find she is in a hospital bed, hooked up to a machine. Looking to her left she can see Octavia sitting in a chair sleeping. She looks much better then she did when Amore passed out. Her wounds have healed and everything that is beautiful about Octavia is back to how it should be. Amore smiles before looking to her right at the open window to see a male Pegasus staring into the distance, as a soothing tune on the wind fills Amore's ears. The Pegasus has a white coat with a pitch black mane and tail that has ice blue streaks. His eyes share the same ice blue colour. He wears a ice blue T-shirt with a black jacket and black trousers. Folding his arms, the Pegasus leans against the wall to face Amore.
"For someone who went through what they did, you look very okay to me. Not to mention sleeping like a log on the edge of death for two straight days. That girl there hasn't left your side the whole time you were out." The Pegasus explains as Amore looks at Octavia with sad eyes.
"Tavi... You missed your book convention..." Amore sighs deeply as she remember all that happened.
Placing her fingers into her mouth she can feel that she definitely has two vampire fangs now. Turning to the Pegasus she wears a worried expression.
"My name is of little importance and as for your eyes... They are both aquamarine, so don't worry. Speaking of which, I've a gift for you..." The Pegasus as he walks over to Octavia and picks up her 'Dance in The Midst of Midnight' novel.
The Pegasus opens the cover and writes something with an ice blue quill, which he pulled out of his messenger bag. Closing the novel he hands it to Amore who looks puzzled.
"Don't worry. I'm sure she won't mind that I wrote in her book. I should likely go before my partner makes passing ponies go stir crazy listening to that music. I wonder if she has figured out how to change the CD in the CD player yet?" The Pegasus chuckles to himself as he leaves the room.
"Your partner? Like a romantic interest?" Amore asks bluntly.
"Oh Celestia no... Seeing me shipped with my author buddy is bad enough... Hearing me shipped with this mare? Not a chance in Tartarus." The Pegasus claims firmly.
The male Pegasus continues out the door with a slight wave as Amore goes back to the novel.
"Who da hell does he think he is..?" Amore opens the novel's front cover to see what the Pegasus wrote.
Signed on the front page under the title is the name 'Frozen Quill' . Amore chokes a little then looks back at the door in surprise.
"Son of a bitch... I can't believe it..." Amore mutters as Octavia begins to stir in her sleep and wake up.
"Hmm? Oh, Amore I'm so glad you're awake~ Were you reading my book?" Octavia asks leaning over to look where Amore is.
"A random Pegasus just signed your book and left... He was so... What the hell..." Amore is still unable to process what just happened.
Octavia's eyes widen as she looks at the name signed in the book.
"Sweet Celestia, he was here? In this hospital room?! Why didn't you wake me? Oh, I missed such an opportunity!" Octavia laments as the soothing music disappears into the distance.
Octavia sits down next to Amore on the bus, both of them now back in their freshly cleaned and repaired academy uniforms. Looking out around the street it doesn't even look like anything occurred two days ago. No wreckage or anything could be seen, all the damage fixed as well. Nopony even spoke a word of it, not even the papers said anything. Amore shrugged it off not really caring as she stretches back into her bus seat.
"I'm ready to go home and relax for the weekend in bed for a little while. We also need to make up our sessions~" Octavia sings as she opens her novel, still loving how she has a signed copy now.
Octavia leans over and kisses Amore's cheek making her blush.
"What's that for, Tavi?" Amore asks smiling slightly confused.
"Oh, nothing much. This is the best present I've ever gotten. Thank you very much, Amore." Octavia leans back in her seat and goes to the page she has her bookmark and continues reading.
"You're welcome, next time I'll pay for us to come to the book convention. Just us two... I love you... Tavi" Amore whispers as she stares out the window.
Octavia smiles to herself and adjusts her seat so she can start enjoying her book for the long ride home.
Author's Note
That's all she wrote folks. I wasn't sure about putting the Hooviet Union in the fic, but I went with it anyway because I so badly wanted to use that awesome song from an anime called 'Girls Und Panzer'. I'd check it out as it's amazing. The dubbed is... I'd not go with the dubbed. It doesn't have the song. Such a shame. Anyway, I do hope you enjoyed what has been revealed and what is yet to come. All the excitement. Also you might be screaming 'Shameless self insert!'. Well, I have my reasons for what I do. I call it... 'Putting the pieces into play for a much larger future plan'. You will just have to wait and see what I mean. *Epic foreshadowing*.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Actions Speak Louder Than Words
Octavia is walking down the hallway when she comes to a room with a label on the door saying, 'Music Club Room'. Upon entering she can see Aqua Streak tuning her bass guitar while Scarlet Orange is sat behind her drum set, testing it out.
"Excuse me, but have either of you seen or heard from Amore since this morning's class?" Octavia asks the pair who look between themselves before shrugging at Octavia.
"Your guess is a good as ours. She has been skipping quite a bit of practice lately since we came back from Manehatten a month ago..." Aqua Streak comments as she plays some chords
"She has been acting weird as well... Seemingly muttering about 'dance steps' I think... She hasn't been herself that's for sure." Scarlet Orange states as she sighs deeply.
Octavia sighs and looks perplexed. "Thank you anyway, see you around."
Octavia leaves the room closing the door before she continues her search for Amore which leads her to the mare's locker room. Looking around she can't seem to find Amore even though they frequent the shower cubicle after every P.E session before lunch.
"Where are you, Amore? It is unlike you to be so-" Octavia stops herself as she remembers the time she tailed the trio to Ponyville and sighs deeply.
Octavia takes her search in the direction of the cafeteria. Halfway there she encounters Derpy which gives her an idea. Grabbing the mail mare and pinning her to the wall gently while wearing a soft expression compared to the shocked one being worn by said mail mare.
"Octavia! W-what can I do for you?" Derpy asks looking very nervous.
"Derpy, have you seen Amore anywhere around here? I've been looking all over since first period, but cannot find her." Octavia asks, noting the sweat starting to appear on Derpy's forehead.
"N-no, I've not seen her at all since she left for her private classes this morning after first period." Derpy smiles sheepishly before face hoofing at her sudden mistake.
"Oh? Private classes... Do expand that train of thought... I'm 'intrigued'." Octavia states with a deadpan expression.
"I can't say! Please, please, please don't make me say anymore! Amore promised me a place playing with her band if I keep her secret!" Derpy says quickly looking very worried.
"You only agreed to that because you like Amore..." Octavia points out which makes Derpy squirm.
"Y-yeah, I know... I'm not trying anything I swear!" Derpy states in defence which makes Octavia sigh.
"I'm not saying you are... If the promise means that much, I wont press it further... I just have to find her myself. See you later Derpy, sorry for the trouble." Octavia says walking off no closer to finding her marefriend.
Derpy slides down the wall to a sitting position and heaves a sigh of relief. "That was close... I almost told her that Amore was taking dance lessons~" Derpy stands up and brushes herself off before carrying on her way.
"Teach, are you sure this is right?" Amore asks confused.
"Yes, you said you wanted to learn this for 'special reasons'... To be honest, you live up to what I've heard..." The female Unicorn states as she leads Amore around the dance hall in the waltz position.
The Unicorn instructor's coat is a dull white while her tail and mane are a mid tone gold, her eyes are also a mid tone gold. She wears a plain long white dress.
"I get that, teach. However, I've not really been doing so well..." Amore admits as the pair dance around the hall practising the waltz, Amore is in her normal academy uniform.
"To be honest, hearing of your infamous exploits of shrugging off work so Octavia can teach you later is not unknown to me... Your name is forever spoken about, right next to Vinyl's and the word 'Lazy'... Needless to say when you actually approached me about being taught how to dance... You can imagine my shock/horror." The Unicorn instructor admits as she finally stops the session and lets Amore go.
"So, why'd you decide to teach me?" Amore asks.
"Because, it's you... The mare known as Amore, so far as we teachers know, never gives one thought to learning. So, I figured I'd be the first to actually teach you something... However, It's not quite going how I'd hoped... Still, come back when our next session is due and we shall try again." The Unicorn instructor explains to Amore who leaves disappointed.
Amore exits the dancing hall and starts heading for the cafeteria. About halfway there her path is blocked by two ponies, one is a normal sized colt while the other a slightly larger stallion.
"Hey, you're Amore aren't you? We heard your making quite the name for yourself." The colt states folding his arms.
"Yeah, we came here to let you know your place." The stallion cracks his knuckles.
"You see, just because you're bunking with the student council president it don't mean you're invincible..." The colt unfolds his arms and hurls a punch at Amore.
Amore, who is deep in thought, side steps past the punch and twirls around behind the colt before slamming her elbow hard into his side. The colt grips his side and falls to the floor in pain.
"H-hey!" The stallion attempts to avenge his fallen friend, but as he attempts his own punch Amore slides past that punch with another twirl kinda like a dance move.
Amore then uppercuts the stallion in the chin and makes him fly up to smash his head against the ceiling. The stallion falls to the floor holding his head in agony.
"You never said she could dance?!" The stallion achingly cries.
"I didn't know! Let alone she could fight with it!" The colt admits grunting in pain.
Amore's eyes go wide realizing their words before pulling out her phone and calling Aqua Streak.
"Yo, Amore. Where the hell have you been? Octavia came by looking for-" Aqua Streak is cut off by Amore.
"Never mind that, I need you and Scarlet to meet me on the roof in fifteen minutes. Bring your weapons, okay?" Amore asks before hanging up the phone.
Octavia walks into the student council meeting room and sits down at the head chair before signing deeply as she folds her arms.
"That mare is unbelievable! I've not been able to find her all day after first period... Where in the name of Celestia is she?" Octavia mumbles as Night Glider is sitting to her right.
The room is fairly normal with a long table in the middle with several seats around it for the student council members with a chair at the head for Octavia.
"Perhaps, she is hiding somewhere so she can be lazy again..." Night Glider comments as she nibbles on a biscuit.
Octavia looks up at the ceiling and sighs before picking up her cup of tea.
"I suppose... But, she never normally skips our lunch time blood sucking and she started buying her own lunch shortly after we got back from the conventions... It bugs me a lot... She seems distant almost..." Octavia states sadly as she sips her tea.
Night Glider looks at Octavia and sighs deeply.
"You have changed quite a bit since Amore came into your life... While I don't disapprove of your choice of partner, nor is it any of my business... Several of the student council members, including thyself, have expressed... Certain concerns about how Amore acts and how she affects you..." Night Glider explains as she finishes her second biscuit.
"I understand these concerns, but I can assure you I've never let my personal life interfere with my responsibilities as the student council president..." Octavia states in defence.
"I know this... I didn't mean any disrespect... I just dislike seeing you unhappy, Lady Von Melody." Night Glider offers in reply, hoping not to anger Octavia.
Octavia sighs and stands up before heading to the door. "I'm fine, Night Glider... I'm just not feeling well today."
Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange walk out onto the roof with their weapons equipped on their academy uniforms like with their order outfits. Sitting on the railing just a little way from them is Amore who oddly doesn't have her sword.
"Amore, where da fuq have you been?" Aqua Streak asks placing her hands on her hips.
"Yeah, you have been skipping practice a lot since we got back from Manehatten..." Scarlet Orange comments.
Amore pushes off the railing and stands opposite the pair readying her headphones.
"I'm sorry... I can't quite say what I'm up to, just that it is important. It's for something special I have planned. I really need your help with this." Amore pleads.
Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange look at each other and sigh deeply.
"What do you want us to do?" Aqua Streak asks giving up.
Amore grows a wide smile on her face and sets up her iPod in the left side pocket of her blazer.
"I need you both to fight me, okay? I know I'm unarmed, but that isn't the point. Just literally come at me." Amore explains before putting on her headphones and closing her eyes.
Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange shrug at each other before brandishing their weapons and charging at Amore, who starts a song on her iPod. Amore gets herself into a waltz starting position and awaits the pair to attack her. Aqua Streak starts off the onslaught by attempting to slash a few times at Amore, which is dodged by several well timed side steps and twirls. Scarlet Orange tries to hit Amore with a few of her well aimed crossbow bolts, but fails to hit anything as Amore continues to side step and twirl lout of the way to the song playing in her ears. Both Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange frown at each other before deciding to get more intense and attempt joint attacks. Amore side steps, twirls, reverse steps and so many other dance techniques in order to dodge the attacks. After an hour and a half of continuous attempts to attack Amore, both Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange collapse onto the floor exhausted from having to try and keep up with Amore.
Amore preforms a twirl and an action which looks like she is lowering a partner before opening her eyes and looking around at the damaged rooftop. Her attention then goes towards the two sweating messes lying on the floor in front of her. Amore removes her headphones and squats down next to Aqua Streak.
"Umm... Are you guys going to be okay?" Amore asks poking Aqua Streak.
"I think... What in da name of Celestia... Was that you were doing?" Aqua Streak asks between breathes.
"I believe... It was the waltz, Aqua... Or at least something very close..." Scarlet Orange comments through panting.
Amore stands up and starts to head for the rooftop exit. "I guess it was something like that... I can't explain fully now, but I will soon, okay?"
Amore leaves the rooftop, earning a frustrated grunt from the pair who continue to lie on the floor unmoving.
Amore walks into her dorm room as the sun is setting out of the window. Octavia can be seen sitting on the bed with her legs crossed looking very unhappy.
"Where have you been? You didn't even call or text..." Octavia begins looking sternly at Amore.
"I was busy..." Amore tries to shrug Octavia off and starts to undress to take a shower.
"With what?" Octavia raises an eyebrow.
"With a personal project..." Amore enters the bathroom and turns on the shower.
Octavia is believing none of it and sighs deeply to herself.
"You have been missing our sessions... I thought you enjoyed them..." Octavia states in a sad tone.
"I do... I've just been a little bit busy during lunch lately..." Amore swallows a little, hoping Octavia will drop her questions.
"I thought we agreed to no secrets, Amore..." Octavia's tone now taking a more frustrated turn.
Amore finishes in the shower and comes out drying her hair.
"I know... I've just been busy..." Amore fails to keep eye contact with Octavia.
Octavia frowns and sighs in annoyance.
"Why wont you tell me what's going on? Why are you being so secretive about this 'personal project'?" Octavia asks, now standing up.
"Why wont you just drop it? It's nothing bad, so I don't see the problem of me keeping certain things to myself..." Amore states, getting annoyed herself as she puts on some fresh clothes.
"I'm worried about you. You run off after classes, skip our lunch time and some night time sessions... Is our relationship becoming boring for you?" Octavia looks concerned about Amore.
"I never fucking said that! I never said in any way shape or form that our relationship has gotten boring! Why can't you just fucking drop this, Tavi?" Amore yells, now very frustrated.
"Because you're keeping things from me and it's pissing me off! For fuck sake, I'm sure Night Glider thinks you're cheating on me!" Octavia bluntly states.
Amore turns around half dressed with a 'fucking really?' expression painted on her face.
"I don't give a flying fuck what that stuck up president dog bitch thinks! Do you think I'm cheating on you?!" Amore folds her arms.
"I don't know! That's the whole point, I don't know what you're doing!" Octavia comments.
Amore feels a pain bite in her chest at those faithless words and can't stay her tongue.
"That's just fucking perfect... So you may or may not believe her that I could be cheating on you? What kind of mother fucking faith do you have in me, Tavi? Do you see me as the type to flirt and hit on just any mare? What the fuck is that supposed to mean? 'I don't know', what bullshit is that? Do you trust me so little, Tavi?" Amore snaps back unable to keep calm.
"No! I mean, yes! I... I don't fucking know! I do trust you, Amore... I just don't know what you're up to and..." Octavia begins, but trails off.
Amore shakes her head and strips before putting on a fresh uniform. She then grabs her phone, iPod and headphones.
"I'm going for a fucking walk... I don't believe this bullshit..." Amore states before going to leave.
"Amore wait!" Octavia tries to grab Amore's hand, but has it slapped away making her recoil her hand back.
Amore leaves the room and slams the door leaving Octavia alone. Octavia begins to cry and flops onto her bed, hugging her pillow hard.
"I have changed haven't I..? Why am I so paranoid now..?" Octavia buries her face into her pillow and begins to heavily cry.
Octavia lies atop her bed wearing just her panties, her mane and tail are somewhat a mess showing she hasn't brushed them in a while, cuddling a stuffed bat pony plushie and staring at her phone seemingly waiting for something. On the desk sits a weeks worth of academy newspapers stacked on top of each other. The room looks exactly like it did when Amore left on a walk six days ago. Octavia's wash basket hasn't gained anything other than six pairs of panties, while Amore's has gained nothing since her dirty uniform.
Octavia suddenly gets a text and looks straight up at who it is, but lowers her head back onto her pillow when she can see it's just Aqua Streak.
Aqua - Has Amore come back yet? It's been a whole week since the argument...
Octavia - No... She has not returned since then...
Aqua - You haven't left your room either... I'm sure she will come back. It's not like her to up and leave you after one argument.
Octavia - I guess...
Octavia sighs deeply and turns onto her back to stare at the ceiling. Suddenly her phone rings and she answers it quickly seeing it's Amore.
"Hello-"
"Tonight, Valentine's bar, one pm. There is a box in the bottom of your wardrobe, please wear it." Amore states before hanging up.
Octavia throws her phone on the bed and sighs deeply before glancing at the wardrobe. Giving in she gets up and goes to her wardrobe to begin rummaging through it for the box. After several minutes of searching she finds a rectangle shaped purple box, which she takes out and sits on her bed.
"What are you up to this time, Amore..?" Octavia mutters before she opens the box.
To her complete surprise what's in the box is a full length purple dress. Taking the dress out to examine it further Octavia can see it's not too fancy, but it's not too plain either. The main colour of the dress is the same purple that's in her cutie mark, while the secondary parts of the dress are being drenched in a black accent, which adds allure to the dress for Octavia. Laying the dress on the bed she looks out the window to see it's still the afternoon.
"I suppose I should go to the academy salon in order to clean up my mane... Why'd I have to yell at her..?" Octavia mumbles to herself before putting on a normal academy uniform and heading out the door.
The moon sits high in the sky as Octavia stands in front of the door to Valentine's bar. Her mane looks cleaned up and more vibrant then it did when she was in her room. Her lovely purple dress shimmers slightly in the moonlight because of it's material.
'I always seem to be standing in front of a door with her... It's just like that time on the rooftop all those months ago...' Taking a deep breath Octavia opens the door and enters the bar. To her surprise most of the place is dark with no pony to be seen or even heard.
Walking a little further in and looking around Octavia's eyes stop on the stage which has a single spotlight on it, covering the whole stage. At it's centre is Amore who is seen wearing a similar styled dress to her, but in a blood red with black accent. Octavia's heart can't stop beating faster as she slowly, slightly hesitantly, makes her way to the stage and up to Amore.
"Hey..." Octavia says looking uncomfortable.
"Sup..." Amore replies, also looking uncomfortable.
Both stand in silence for a few minutes before music starts playing that fills the empty bar.
"Umm... W-would you... I mean if you want... Would you like to dance?" Amore asks looking at Octavia sheepishly and holding out her hand.
Octavia takes a few seconds to look around and piece everything together before feeling very sick in her stomach.
"Yes... If you know how, that is." Octavia comments taking Amore's hand.
As the pair get into the waltz position they wait a little before starting to dance, Octavia decides to let Amore lead as she simply stares into her eyes.
"So... This is what you had planned? Your 'personal project?" Octavia asks smiling warmly.
Amore nods as she leads them around the stage using what she has learned in the past week using her... Abnormal learning method. After the first twirl Amore decides to speak.
"Yeah... Because of me you had to miss your book convention, so I wanted to do something very special with just the two of us. I learnt my boss is a vampire too, so I asked if tonight he'd close the bar and let me use the stage as a dance platform... I also had to pay a load of patrons off and get these dresses custom made..." Amore explains as she smiles slightly back at Octavia.
Octavia sighs and relaxes a lot, letting herself just enjoy the dance between her and Amore. The sick feeling soon disappears as the dance continues and she admires Amore's footwork and precision while they dance. Octavia also notices Amore's hair has been trimmed slightly to clean it up and something applied to it making the colours more vibrant, especially the blood red streaks in her mane and tail.
"So, you're telling me you spent all that time learning the waltz... Just for me? You know we could of done something else." Octavia states looking softly into Amore's eyes.
"I know... I just wanted to do something more your style. I mean granted the setting isn't as fancy and-" Amore is cut off by Octavia's lips which silence her and gently caress her own.
After a few seconds Octavia pulls away smiling. "I don't care where we are, so long as we are together. These dresses, the setting, your selection in music... Is all perfect. I couldn't ask for a better surprise."
Amore smiles and seemingly puts more into her step with the music. Valentine watches from the darkness, silently sipping on a glass of whiskey as the record player spins beside him.
"I take it Valentine picked the music?" Octavia asks raising an eyebrow.
"Yeah... He seemed the guy to ask given he'd known you a while from what I gathered." Amore smiles.
"Well... He didn't fail you. This is perhaps one of my favourite Romanian pieces. Amore... I'm very sorry I yelled at you, I nearly spoiled your surprise and our relationship." Octavia starts to look sad, but Amore licks her cheek.
"Na, it's cool. Couples argue, yeah. I won't leave you after one little argument. Although, the trust thing really needs to be upped by a lot, Tavi." Amore states bringing them closer together.
"I understand... I'm sorry, I'm normally not like that... I do need to put more faith in you. I promise to trust you far more from now on." Octavia states as she kisses Amore again, this time making it a much deeper passionate kiss. Octavia's senses can smell a certain relaxing aroma coming from Amore which is similar to her ocean breeze perfume.
Amore keeps them dancing even with their eyes closed and passionately embracing one another. Octavia makes no effort to pull back or release her lover's lips as they float around the stage to the music. Again they pass the lead between one another as their tongues do their own unique dance with each other.
Several minutes later the pair break and Amore leads Octavia into the finishing leaning position as the music ends. Both mares smile warmly at each other and are entirely relaxed with each other.
"I love you, Amore." Octavia states stroking Amore's cheek gently.
"I... Love you too... Tavi." Amore slightly struggles to say with a smile.
Octavia giggles slightly which makes Amore blush and produce a seductive growl.
"You're so awkward it's adorable... I like that though." Octavia comments before she is brought into another passionate kiss by Amore, the pair still in the leaning position.
Author's Note
I do hope you all enjoyed this rather heated up chapter. You will notice I'm putting off explaining some things until later. I figured I should have an argument between the two at some point, this one just seemed best as it had a cute conclusion. The next chapter will not be far away and will be musical based. After that the shit hits and breaks the metaphorical fan! See you then!
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Amore sighs deeply as she nibbles on a biscuit and looks around the student council meeting room. At the head of the table is Octavia, directly opposite her is Night Glider. The two seats beside Night Glider are occupied by the two male Earth Ponies from when she first came to the academy. The male Earth Pony directly to Night Glider's right has a white coat with a white cyanish grey mane and tail that has white streaks. Their eyes are a light cobalt and they wear the student council male uniform. The Earth pony beside him is slightly bigger in stature, has a light gamboge coat, greyish tangelo mane and tail and moderate cerulean eyes, he also wears the student council male uniform.
Amore looks beside her opposite the two males to see two female Unicorns. The first mare sitting next to Amore has pale cerise coat with a moderate magenta mane and tail. Her eyes are a moderate cerise and she wears the female student council uniform. The second mare has a pale, light greyish magenta with her mane and tail being a moderate violet that has light purple highlights. Her eyes are a moderate purple and she also wears the female student council uniform. In the centre of the table are two trays filled with an assortment of biscuits and a tea pot beside them.
"Now... To begin this student council meeting, I would like to introduce Amore to the four members she has not met yet... Despite being here for three months and two weeks, that was one of her assignments..." Octavia looks at Amore with a awkward smile accompanied by a 'squee' sound.
"Come on, Tavi... You know I've had things on my mind lately with everything that's been going on..." Amore admits staring into her tea cup.
"I know, Amore... Which is why we're doing this now. You four... Please introduce yourselves." Octavia prompts the four ponies sitting at the bottom of the table.
The first male Earth Pony clears his throat to begin talking.
"My name is Double Diamond. I handle activities and sports related clubs for the student council. It's a pleasure to actually make your, infamous, acquaintance." Double Diamond states, smiling slightly.
The second male Earth Pony eats a biscuit and sighs deeply.
"My name is Rivet and I'm the go-to pony for construction around Armonia. You have been giving me a lot of work lately..." Rivet comments as he eats another biscuit.
Octavia sips her tea and clears her throat.
"Now, for the other two members of the student council." Octavia prompts the two mares sitting beside Amore.
The first mare smiles and eagerly nods her head.
"My name is Sugar Belle. I handle the cooking clubs and academy menu with great enthusiasm!" Sugar Belle states with glee.
"I'm Amethyst Star. I handle all the organising and such for events in Armonia. Your name is very known to me... Not for good reasons." Amethyst Star admits, drinking her tea.
"Well, now that the introductions are out of the way I've something I wish to make clear... Amore and I are, and until decided otherwise by us, a couple... It's to my understanding that many of you expressed your concern to her influence on me. My response to this concern is... Mind your own business... This student council is not so weak that I'm needed twenty four seven." Octavia firmly states, folding her arms.
Night Glider, Double Diamond and Amethyst Star hang their heads and look awkward.
"Well... If that's out of the way, we should move on to the preparation for the festival next week." Night Glider prompts to move the conversation forwards.
"Yes... I'd like to hear the report on the progress for next weeks festival during Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday." Octavia asks looking hopeful.
"All the cooking clubs sorted out a variety menu for the stalls and parties so food and drink should be all sorted~" Sugar Belle chimes happily.
"The athletic and sports clubs have been putting together a list of suitable games that can be played during the three days. As far as I'm aware everything is progressing smoothly on our side." Double Diamond reports.
"Several of the classes expressed their desire to provide entertainment like haunted houses, maid cafés and the like. Seeing no problem with it I approved several I thought to be suitable." Night Glider states, sipping her tea.
"The stalls along with the academy modifications are coming along smoothly. The assembly stage is also being modified for it's purpose during the festival." Rivet adds, eating a biscuit.
Amethyst Star pulls out a check list and runs through it. "Judging by this meeting and all the progress reports I have thus far... Everything is progressing as it should... Well..."
"What's wrong, Amethyst Star?" Octavia prompts her as she wears a worried expression.
"Well... The one major feature of the festival is music... Our head of the music committee kinda quit last year... We haven't had anyone willing to do the job since..." Amethyst Star reports with a heavy sigh.
Amore's ears twitch as she stares into the tea. Suddenly she springs up from her chair and stands up straight, a certain fire in her eyes.
"I got this!" Amore exclaims with dramatic hand gestures.
"A-Amore? What is it?" Octavia asks in surprise.
"You'll see! I promise ya that I've got this for once!" Amore claims as she sprints out the meeting room into the hallway, leaving the other student council members confused and puzzled while Night Glider rubs her forehead.
Amore is sprinting down the hallway beaming with happiness. She drastically stops in front of the music club room door and places her hand on the door knob to open it. The entire hallway and surrounding area is suddenly plunged into pure darkness and nothing can be seen. Amore frantically looks around as an eerie female voice begins to speak accompanied by the same bone chilling music .
"There you are! I've been looking all over this academy for you, Amore!" The female voice is light, but not that of a child.
"W-who is there?! Show yourself!" Amore states as she looks around the infinite dark space.
"I've heard so much about you since I woke up! I wanted to meet you in the flesh!" The light voice states as Amore continues turning around following the echoing voice.
Amore turns around to come face to face with a female Unicorn who has a forest green coat, amber mane and tail with yellow streaks through it. Her eyes are the same amber colour. She wears grey trousers that have robed sections down her left and right sides along with behind her, all starting at her waist and ending just before her hooves. On her top she wears a hooded dancers top which fully covers her midsection, the hood is up. The Unicorn female is surrounded in a pale white ghostly aura.
"A-are you a ghost?!" Amore asks stuttering a bit.
The Unicorn female giggles and laughs a little. "no, silly! I'm a far seer! I'm somewhat like an oracle and such! I was searching for you using my special magic!"
The Unicorn floats around Amore and examines her carefully making 'hmm' and 'ahh' noises while also throwing in a 'I see' every now and then.
"You two look so alike! I wonder if you're her offspring! You have the same coat, facial structure and stuff!" The Unicorn female chirps as she stops in front of Amore.
"Whose offspring? What are you talking about?!" Amore asks, starting to get confused.
"Oh, don't mind that! I'm here to show you something! Do you trust your lover?!" The Unicorn female randomly asks, throwing Amore off.
"Y-yeah! Why wouldn't I trust her?" Amore states in defence.
The Unicorn female floats around Amore and giggles again, this time floating off a little into the distance.
"You see, Amore, I have the magical ability to see inside ponies hearts! It also works with any creature or being! For example!" The Unicorn female throws her arm out and summons some images of Derpy and Amore spending time together, making out and other explicit things.
"Woah! I've never done those things with Derpy... Although if I wasn't with Octavia I'd not say no..." Amore admits with a blush.
"These are Derpy's deepest desires! Along with several images of muffins... I cut those out of this presentation! Still, my point remains. Do you truly trust Octavia?!" The Unicorn female asks again, dispelling the images of Derpy's fantasy.
"Yes! I'm positive! I trust Tavi with my life!" Amore states, feeling more and more agitated.
"I see... You're a very simple pony, but the universe shifts and changes around you because of what you are." The Unicorn female throws up images of Amore and Octavia, everything that they have done together up to this point.
"This is... Everything we have done together..." Amore marvels at the images being shown all around her.
"Your relationship is beautiful, yes. I wont deny that your union is unique... However, there are deep hidden flaws... Not from you, but from Octavia." The Unicorn female brings up images of Amore and Octavia in various situations that Amore knows she has thought about.
Many of the images include Amore trusting Octavia in certain situations where either one's life is threatened and scenarios where Amore has to protect Octavia from the order of light. None feature any fear of Octavia.
"You show no fear whatsoever towards her... You trust her with your very soul, Amore..." The Unicorn female floats away and around, dispelling the images before coming close to Amore.
"What's the problem with Tavi, then?" Amore asks, confused.
"Her trust in you is not all it seems... If you want to know her true fears... Her deepest darkest doubts... Seek me out in the forsaken crypt in the graveyard near the academy. I will be waiting for you at the inner most chamber where I sleep and channel my magical power... You must speak my name in order to enter the final chamber..." The Unicorn female begins to float away and disperse.
"Hey wait! What is your name?! Hey?" Amore yells as the dark space, Unicorn female and creepy music disappear.
Amore now stands back in the hallway of the academy outside the music room, her hand still on the door knob. She lets go and looks at her hand as well as left and right down the hallway.
"W-was that real? The crypt..." Amore shakes her head and slaps her cheeks before taking a deep breath and entering the music room.
Upon entering the room, Amore can see Scarlet Orange on her drums as normal and Aqua Streak tuning her bass guitar. The new sight in the room was that of Derpy Hooves who is tending to a normal guitar making sure it plays correctly. Amore runs up to Aqua Streak and places her hands on her shoulders and shakes her lightly.
"The band Aqua! The band!" Amore shouts at her confused friend as she is being shaken.
"So... You're saying that we, as our band, should perform at the festival that the student council are preparing for." Scarlet Orange states.
"And that due to the last pony bucking out last year... They have no pony to sort out the music clubs or committee..." Aqua Streak adds.
"So, seeing you can do something useful for the student council and not seem like a burden on Octavia, you say 'I got this!' and sped out of the meeting to recruit us and have the band play at the festival!" Derpy Hooves states loudly, raising a dramatic hand into the air.
"Umm... Yes, yes and not quite... Derpy, seriously, what da hell..." Amore shakes her head as she sits on the desk in the room.
Aqua Streak thinks for a minute before speaking.
"Well, for one, I don't have a problem with this. Two, you are our band leader so technically where you go, we go." Aqua Streak smiles.
"It'll be a good chance to increase our reputation as a band and get us a few more followers on Twitter~" Scarlet Orange states happily.
"I'm very grateful you actually let me in, so I'll do my best for the band and you!" Derpy Hooves states as she salutes in an odd manner.
"Sweet! Now we just have to either pick from our song selection or come up with new songs!" Amore jumps off the desk and throws her hands up in the air excited.
The door to the music room is suddenly flung open and Amore is flying kicked hard in the side causing her to be forced out of the nearby window. The trio seem confused as they look at the window then to the assailant.
Amore is lying on the ground groaning before she sits up and rubs her side.
"What the fuck was that?" Amore looks ahead of her as something lands just below the window on the ground.
What stands before Amore is a Pegasus mare with a dark grey coat, her mane and tail are dark blue with black streaks through it. Her eyes are a lighter blue. She wears the academy uniform for normal students.
"Amore Sânge Von Scratch! I've finally found you and shall avenge my honour!" The female Pegasus claims with a Hooviet Union accent.
Amore opens her eyes and inspects the mare for a few seconds before shrugging.
"I have no idea who you are lady..." Amore states in earnest.
The Pegasus mare's mouth drops and she grits her teeth, flaring her wings.
"You broke my wings you vile creature! My name is Major Veronica! How could you forget me so easily?!" Veronica huffs and Amore and folds in her wings.
"Wait... You mean the Hooviet Union mare in the black tight suit whose wings I broke? That Veronica?" Amore asks, scratching her head.
"Ugh! You are such a disappointment! Yes, that Veronica! You disgraced me and my comrades... When we returned to the order's HQ we were welcomed back, yes... However, that was short lived as we were taken captive. It seems our Supreme Commander wanted to overthrow the order and reign as it's leader... Needless to say that Lady Van Apple saw this coming and our entire branch was decimated... Only those who pleaded for their lives got to live. I blame you for this travesty! If I'd not lost to you, Vladimir would not have thrown me out! There is no place for weakness! I was given a letter by a mare with an electric blue mane that said if I came here I could find you... I stole a uniform and have been searching all morning for you, Amore! Now I can settle the score!" Veronica explains as she brandishes her thin bladed daggers.
Amore stands up and rubs the back of her neck. "Look I don't know what happened after the battle in Manehatten... I don't know a lot of fucking things right now... However, what I do know right now is that you're blaming me for defending myself and those dearest to me. I was not the one who recruited you into the Hooviet Union... I was not the one who threw you out and I was not the one who ordered you to attack us in Manehatten... If there is anyone to be angry at it's that Lady Van whatever the fuck her name is Apple!" Amore states in defence which makes Veronica grip her daggers tightly.
"I'm not so fucking dense I don't already know that! I know it's her fault and I want nothing more then to punish her for what she did to me and my comrades... I'm too weak... I'm always too weak... I managed to swipe a potion from the alchemy lab here which healed my wings, not that it'll do me much good... I decided you're my rival and I will do whatever it takes to even the score between us!" Veronica admits, preparing herself for battle.
Amore stares at Veronica seeing only a lost confused sixteen year old mare from when her guardian died. She remembers how she felt at that time, lost, confused, angry. All she wanted to do was fight to forget... Fight to bury the pain. Travelling from school to school, college to college then raising her game to academy punks. She climbed up each one and knocked down any and all who stood in her way. Amore smirks and takes a deep breath.
"Let's fight then... I will come at you with everything! Don't you dare hold back either!" Amore shouts as her silver case lands in front of her and she removes her sword.
Both mares charge at each other with fire in their eyes and passion burning bright. Above them watching from the window is Amore's band trio.
"Umm... Aqua, do you think we should tell them the boats outta gas?" Derpy asks still staring at the fight.
"Na, just smile and wave girls, smile and wave." Aqua states as the pair begin to smile and wave.
Scarlet Orange stares at the pair confused. "What boat? I don't see a boat... Where is the boat?" Scarlet Orange gives and starts waving with them, still confused.
The mysterious Unicorn mare floats around an oddly designed stone room where flowing water is coming out of four rectangle holes that pour down into more holes that lead underneath the floor. Shimmering blue water reflections can be seen along the walls and edge of the room. The same music from before can be heard within the room.
"I can't believe you woke me up just to spy on some chick! You're so inconsiderate!" The Unicorn mare states displeased.
"You of all ponies know I'd not of awoken you for such a petty reason... You are needed to keep an eye on the Von scratch mare, just in case." A deep calm voice states sighing deeply.
The voice belongs to a somewhat large stallion with a red coat, his mane and tail are a brilliant orange. His eyes are a moderate sap green. The stallion wears a long white trench coat with several straps and buckles, a red T-shirt and white trousers, on his head is a white version of Van Helsing's hat.
"I know! It's just such a bother whenever you guys drag me out of my slumber just to do small tasks... How dangerous can this Amore girl even be!" The Unicorn mare states crossing her legs in the air and adopting a sitting position.
The mare herself is the same minus the ghostly aura. She sighs and summons a cup of tea and a tea pot which floats in front of her.
"It's the combination of that pair... However, we have faith that they won't be much of a problem once you finish with them. The desires of the heart can't be ignored after all." The stallion comments leaning against the wall.
"Wrong! Wrong! Wrong! It's the fears of the heart, Big Macintosh Van Apple! I thought your sister briefed you on how my power works! She is really letting her operation slip lately..." The Unicorn mare agitatidly corrects Big Macintosh before going back to her tea.
"Sorry, sorry... Anyway, we can trust you to handle this matter correctly?" Big Macintosh asks pushing away from the wall.
"Yes! Yes! I have it all under control... Just get out of here before the guardians wake up with me and you wont ever be able to leave this place." The Unicorn mare states as she disperses the items she summoned.
"Good... My sister will be pleased... Shintaku." Big Macintosh leaves the room and lets the door close before a locking sound is heard.
The mare addressed as Shintaku floats around the room and hums playfully to herself and flits about the room looking through various summoned screens showcasing many ponies desires and fears within their hearts.
Amore is lying on the ground cut and hurt, panting heavily. Her uniform is also cut and ripped slightly. Across from her, lying against the wall, is Veronica who looks no better off than Amore.
"It's... It's a draw..." Amore states through pants.
"I second that motion... For now it's two to one..." Veronica admitted with a sigh.
"One to One... The fight in Manehatten doesn't count towards our rivaly since that started today..." Amore admits which makes Veronica sigh.
Amore suddenly feels something impact her face and land beside her. Opening her eyes she looks at the object and sighs deeply. The object that hit Amore's face is a sphere which is red on top with white on the bottom.
"Oh come on! Do I look like a super rare legendary Amore?!" Amore yells as Principal Flutterbat lands between the pair chuckling.
"Oh dear, it seems it wasn't weakened enough to be caught by my Pokéball... Such a shame... I guess a vampire/normal pony hybrid like yourself would be considered a shiny Pokémon. After all, your kind is unheard of in any circles I'm involved in." Principal Flutterbat explains before looking over at Veronica.
The exhausted mare looks up at Principal Flutterbat and slams her head back against the ground.
"Oh shit..." Veronica manages to say through her own heavy pants.
"Well, well... Now what do I do with you?" Principal Flutterbat ponders as she inspects Veronica.
"Enrol her... Please? As a member of the student council I can be responsible for her..." Amore offers as she sits up.
"That's entirely unexpected of you Amore... I didn't even think you liked being on the student council..." Principal Flutterbat comments, looking displeased.
"Hehe... Well, the little boost in position helps..." Amore smiles slightly.
Principal Flutterbat sighs and picks up Veronica. "Fine... I will enrol her, but first I desire to have a private conversation with this mare..." Principal Flutterbat states as she leaves with Veronica.
Amore stands up and finds her silver case to put her sword back before making the painful walk all the way back to her dorm room. Once back at the dorm room she throws her case on her bed and eagerly strips down to nothing before heading into the bathroom and turning on the shower. Upon stepping into the shower Amore coos with pleasure as the hot water relaxes and soothes her aches and pains from the morning fight. After a few minutes she feels a pair of arms wrap around her midsection and a pair of familiar breasts press gently against her back.
"I trust I don't have to worry about the music for the festival? You ran off so eager I didn't get your plan. I also heard something about two mares tearing it up near the music room..." Octavia whispers into Amore's ears making her shiver slightly.
"My band can handle the music for the festival and I kinda got into something with a mare from the Hooviet Union... Long story short she got fired and sought me out, we're now rivals and stuff. Also, you don't normally shower with me~ What's the special occasion?" Amore asks, leaning back into Octavia enjoying her company.
"Oh, just a little celebration present for you stepping up into the music committee chair position. I've been wondering what you could do for months. I'm sure you will fill the seat nicely." Octavia nibbles Amore's ear making her bite her lip.
"Hmm~ You know we haven't done a feeding session in a live shower before and I think it's time for your breakfast~" Amore comments turning around to face Octavia.
"Since when did I have feeding times like some pet?" Octavia comments, but simply pins Amore gently to the wall and positions them so she can lick her neck.
"By Celestia, you'd be one sexy vampire pony pet~ Get you a nice purple collar and lead... Oh that image is so badly clop material." Amore coos as Octavia nips and licks her neck.
"You're an unbelievable mare. Although I don't find the image unappealing... I'd only ever go to that level for you, any other pony would be mad to even suggest it." Octavia states as she sinks her fangs into Amore's neck to begin feeding and raises her thigh up between Amore's legs to apply a different kind of 'pleasure' to their session.
"True, but you must admit my ideas are very hot~" Amore moans as Octavia feeds almost playfully on her lover's neck.
Octavia stops briefly to lick the wounds and smiles. "You are so unpredictable it's somewhat scary. Although I'm glad you're mi Amore."
Amore smiles and coos again as Octavia goes back to drinking her unique apple flavoured blood. The pair slowly, but surely losing themselves to each other and the increasing pleasure they both feel during their feeding sessions combined with the added 'stimulant' being given by Octavia during this unique shower session.
Amore slightly frowns as what the ghost mare said lingers in the back of her mind. About Octavia and the trust between them. Her thoughts then went to the old forsaken graveyard nearby. 'Surely I can't doubt, Tavi...? Right? I love her... Still, it couldn't hurt to check... Maybe just to make sure?' Amore thinks as they continue their session and embrace.
Author's Note
Trouble is brewing! I do hope you all enjoyed this chapter and look forward to next time when things get creepy and heated down in the dark unknown! Veronica made an appearance along with all the references! I'm so badly loving putting my references into this fic! Stay tuned for more and I'll see you all next time.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
She Who Gambles With Fate
Three days before the festival...
Amore is descending down the stone steps with Octavia into the old forsaken crypt she was told about. As soon as the entrance closed behind them the same music Amore heard before started to play.
"Amore... As much as I love our date setting, is it not lacking in the 'romantic' department?" Octavia asks as they progress past several tombs and cobwebbed skeletons.
"I didn't really say it was a date... However, many ponies reported several strange happenings around this crypt... So, I figured, as we are student council members, we should investigate it." Amore tries to bluff Octavia.
"Amy... It's my day off..." Octavia dead pans as she is wearing her supernatural student uniform.
Amore choked a little. Octavia rarely used her new nickname for Amore, but she loved it a lot. "W-well... I was just curious about this place... Can we at least see what's down here?" Amore pleads.
Octavia sighs as they walk and gives in to Amore.
"Fine, but you realise this crypt only goes so far then it stops at a dead-" Octavia is cut off by Amore who runs over to the end wall and inspects a cool looking bat carving.
Amore pushes in the carving and the section beside it opens making Octavia look very puzzled.
"I have no idea what is past this room... Amore maybe we should turn back." Octavia asks, but Amore is already pressing on.
The pair come to an odd room with several blue flamed torches lining the various pillars and walls about the room. A large magical symbol is carved into the floor between the pillars and Octavia looks around in awe.
"What is this place?" Octavia asks only to be answered by a small giggling voice.
"Why, it's my prison as well as my home!" Octavia turns around to see Shintaku, the Unicorn mare Amore met before.
"You're the mare from the hallway..." Amore states making Octavia look at her oddly before turning her attention back to to the Unicorn mare.
"Yep! I see you brought 'her' as well!" Shintaku floats over to Octavia and examines her. "Yeah... Your cover is very good, but I can see all the way into that dark heart of yours!" Shintaku floats away playfully leaving a shocked and pale Octavia.
"W-what do you mean 'cover'?" Octavia asks feeling ill.
"You will see... Even if you yourself doesn't know it yet... Come find me at my deepest chambers! There you will find out what is true and what is false!~" Shintaku states before disappearing.
Amore looks at Octavia who seems shaken by the encounter and places her hand on the mares shoulder making her jump.
"Tavi..? Are you feeling okay?" Amore asks looking concerned.
"I-I'm fine... Let's just meet this mare and be rid of this place..." Octavia takes a deep breath and they progress past the room into a long corridor.
Amore is walking along bobbing her head without a worry to the techno music in her ears. Octavia is bent over in front of her breathing heavily.
"Traps... Of course there would be traps..." Octavia pants looking behind them at a large corridor which has engraved plates on the floor.
All over the room are arrows, spears, swords, battle axes and various other dangerous weapons which are stuck into the floor and walls.
"I didn't think it was that bad, Tavi~" Amore states still bouncing her head.
Octavia groans as they continue on through a large stone door which leads into a large rectangle shaped room. On either side of the room leading up to the end are countless tombs and pony skeletons, the ceiling is very high with two chandeliers lighting up the room with various other candles. The pair look around before heading to the three thrones at the end of the room. They reach the large circle engraving before a loud bellowing voice stops them.
"HALT! NONE SHALL PASS TO SEE OUR LADY TILL THOU IST PROVEN WORTHY!" The very deep voice states as the pony skeletons sitting on the thrones come to life and stare at the pair.
"So what do we have to do?" Amore asks shifting the silver case on her back.
"Prove yourself in combat, worthy to receive the visions of our fair lady!" The first skeleton explains.
"Only those who are found worthy of skill have the will to see our lady!" The third skeleton adds.
"Soldiers of the dammed, rise and serve your mistress once more to defend her!" The main middle skeleton yells making several stone coffins move and shift as the ponies are brought back to life in their skeleton forms.
Amore springs her sword from her case and flips it around a few times before throwing her case to the side.
"Hmm I'm so going to enjoy this!" Amore yells as she wades into the horde of skeleton ponies.
Octavia leans against a pillar and sighs deeply as Amore enjoys herself.
After several minutes of slashing down skeletons more undead ponies were summoned that had much more rotten flesh on them. Amore kills a few and squees in joy at the mess she is making.
"Tavi! Tavi! You have badly got to try this! These guys make such a bloody mess!" Amore squeaks as she kicks an undead pony in the head to make it detach with a heavy blood trail
Octavia smiles to herself as she deals with her own group of undead ponies, trying to keep her kills as clean as possible. Once the majority of the undead were dealt with the first of the three skeleton ponies stood up and summoned a battle axe.
"Thou shall not pass! We're charged with guarding my lady as she slumbers... None who have yet to prove their worth shall cross the threshold into her domain!" The pony swings his axe around in the air and makes a loud battle cry as he charges Amore.
Amore, not wanting the fun to stop, eagerly takes the pony on easily matching him in every aspect of his... Very outdated and barbaric fighting style.
"The name Crushing Stone was once feared across every wake of Equestria! How dost thou not fear me!" Crushing Stone prompts Amore who two step kicks the battle axe out of his hands and grabs it herself.
Sticking her sword into the ground she tosses the battle axe up and down getting a feel for it and even playfully spinning it around her hands to Crushing Stones amazement.
"This is the most fun fighting I've had in weeks! Although your style is good... I think it's somewhat outdated and very predictable... I had fun none the less!" Amore exclaims before slamming the battle axe straight down Crushing Stones centre skeleton. The blow easily cuts the pony in half and digs deep into the ground.
Amore smiles widely and looks towards the two ponies left. The centre pony signals the third to make their move and they leave their throne. The skeleton pony raises their hand into the air and summons a pair of duel rapiers before readying himself for combat.
"Lightning Strike will show you what it means to cross the strongest rapier user of his time! Prepare yourselves!" Lightning Strike states as he charges at Amore.
Octavia blocks the slashes with her single rapier and pushes Lightning Strike back a little.
"Oh, now this is more my type. Amore, do be a dear and let me handle this charming fellow." Octavia asks as she flicks her rapier blade in practice.
Amore takes up leaning against a nearby pillar to watch her marefriend work.
"knock yourself out, Tavi~" Amore states resting.
Octavia charges at Lightning Strike and reels off a series of fast strikes and pierce attacks that are blocked fairly easily. Lightning Strike returns his own flurry of strikes and slashes which half are blocked while the other half go through and cut Octavia's uniform. Frowning in disappointment, Octavia decides to step up her game and charges again at Lightning Strike, pushing him back slowly with an even faster flurry of precise strikes and quick slashes which catch the experienced pony off guard. After several minutes of back and forth fighting, Octavia decides to break out her signature finishing move, which she used on Amore when they met. Octavia charges at Lightning Strikes and unleashes a series of insanely fast precise piercing attacks which stab the enemy pony in his bones weakening him gradually as the strikes go on. She then leads up for her final strike which aims at his centre spine.
"One million dark fang illusion strike!" Octavia yells proudly as the tip of her rapier stabs into his spine.
The pony before Octavia cracked and crumbled to thousands of broken pieces. The main skeleton pony stands up and summons a large great sword before stepping forward a little.
"Half breed... Come forward..." The pony asks keeping his gaze on Amore.
Amore unsure how to deal with his sudden examination steps forward picking up her metal sword and standing a few paces in front of him.
"What do you want..?" Amore asks swallowing hard.
"You are a sight I've not seen in this land since my own time several hundreds of years ago... Rarely does a vampire and a pony dare elope despite the stigma. Although you might find at the end of this road you travel, is not the answer you hoped for... What will you do when faced with the truth of yourself and your birth?" The pony asks.
Amore feels her chest tighten, unsure how to answer. Never before did she think she would get this far, let alone meet any of her parents... Only one answer really sounded right to her.
"I'll deal with that when I get there... I've still a long way to go." Amore states with a slight smile.
The skeleton pony chuckles and stares at Amore who meets his gaze head on.
"This will be a good ending to my tale... I've long awaited another half breed who could match my companions, now you arrive seeking out our fair lady. Needless to say I see it as destiny... Show me the power of a true half breed! Show me your true self! I, lord Crimson Flare, shall judge thee worthy!" Crimson Flare bellows as he slams his great sword down into the floor creating a shock-wave which throws Amore off.
Amore's entire demeanour changes and her eyes shift colour so her left is blood red. She grips her sword and smiles widely at Crimson Flare before snapping her fingers shifting the ominous music in the air to something much more her style
"Seeing as they got a sound system let's pump this up to eleven and get this shit started!" Amore yells as she sprints forth off the spot at Crimson Flare.
Crimson Flare blocks each of her fast onslaught slashes with one of his own. Each attack is met with another of equal resistance.
"Come on half-breed! Push your limits!" Crimson Flare yells as he flings Amore backwards across the floor and charges at her.
Regaining her balance into a standing-slide position Amore pushes off the spot and spreads her vampire wings so she can literally fly at Crimson Flare. Upon reaching him, Amore grabs his arm and using her strength slams him into the nearby pillar. Crimson Flare grabs Amore through the dust cloud and throws her up into the ceiling before slamming her hard into the ground. Grabbing his wrist Amore throws Crimson Flare round and into the second pillar before unleashing a series of lightning fast slashes onto him that are all blocked by his great sword.
"Yes, yes! Faster young half-breed! Fight with everything!" Crimson Flare screams, the excitement very clear in his voice.
Octavia is standing clear of the fighting area as she tries to avoid the crossfire. Amore is kicked back into the wall followed by Crimson Flares fit impacting her chest causing her to spit up blood. He prepares to pierce Amore using the tip of his blade and begins his thrust attack with great speed and momentum. At that moment Octavia's blood ran cold and she closed her eyes awaiting the scream Amore would produce at being struck by his blade. When the scream never came she opened her eyes to see Amore still stuck in the wall, but holding the tip of Crimson Flare's sword at bay using the very tip of her sword. Amore smirks as she stares into the eye sockets of Crimson Flare.
"You seriously think that's all I got?! Stand back little skeleton pony. Let AMR-3 show you how dis shit is done!" Amore screams as she pushes forward from the wall and deflects Crimson Flare's sword forcing him off balance.
Amore unleashes a series of much faster slashes and strikes against him using all her available strength and speed that she can muster. Her left eye practically glowing a fresh blood red colour and her right eye flickering between aquamarine and blood red ever so slightly. Amore jumps around Crimson Flare from all directions making it nearly impossible to block, let alone see her attacks as she builds up tremendous speed and momentum.
"Ten thousand two-step multi slash finishing move! Scarlet rose of singing death!" Amore screams as she two-step kicks Crimson Flare into his throne, dislodging it and slamming it into the gate behind him.
Amore does a mid air spinning twirl before throwing her sword into Crimson Flare making it stick into his throne and he bursts into scarlet coloured flames, which engulf him. The music shifts back to the creepy track that was on before.
"Well done... Young half-breed, Amore. Needless to say our time is finished in this world... Our mistress is now in your hands. I hope you are able to better protect her than us... Farewell, young Amore... May we meet again in the great beyond." Crimson Flare states as he turns to ash along with his throne.
Amore sits down on the floor and lets out a sigh of relief as Octavia walks over to her.
"Are you alright, Amore?" Octavia asks placing her hand on Amore's shoulder.
"I'm awesome!" Amore states as she flings her arms into the air and falls backwards.
"You seemed to be enjoying yourself... Was he strong enough for you?" Octavia asks squatting down and running her fingers through Amore's mane.
Amore nods rapidly and closes her eyes. "It was fairly difficult and I wish he didn't die... Still, I'm happy sparring with you, Tavi."
Octavia looks ahead, ever more worried about what will happen when they reach the mare.
"Do you still want to continue onwards?" Octavia asks as Amore stands up and collects her weapon case and sword.
"We have come this far. might as well go all the way." Amore states as she starts to carry on, pushing the door open and heading onwards.
Octavia looks around the room and sighs to herself before following Amore.
The pair open a pair of large engraved doors which lead to a square room with rectangle waterfall slots dotted around its edges. In the centre of the room is Shintaku with a floating tea set right next to her.
"Ah, you made it just fine~ I was worried that my guardians would end you, but you pushed through without much trouble." Shintaku states as she disperses the tea set.
"Not exactly the easiest pony to try and see, are you?" Amore states, folding her arms.
"Oh, that's just details... Anyway! You came here to learn the truth, yes!" Shintaku claims as she floats around the pair, but stops at Amore.
Shintaku spreads out her fingers stretching them for a few seconds before diving them into Amore's chest where her heart is and begins pulling out some silver glowing string. Shintaku spins the string onto the screens she had out before with Amore and they show more vibrant versions of the scenes she saw before.
"You seriously never change... It's very interesting, but somewhat disheartening. Still let's move on to your partner and her fears." Shintaku states as the weave flows back into Amore's heart.
Shintaku floats over to Octavia and with some resistance pulls the thread very slowly out of her heart and onto multiple screens.
"Now! You're so much more interesting! You say so much stuff to comfort her, to let her believe you're on her side... When really, deep in your heart..." Shintaku begins as she floats to the screens and clicks her fingers making the screens turn on.
The many screens show Octavia and Amore in many loving situations and caring poses like you normally would. Shintaku's expression then turns dark and she snaps both her fingers loudly making the screens turn. The new images are of Amore killing and/or torturing Octavia with her sword. Amore leaving Octavia or something happening between them about her vampire powers and the sword.
"Tavi..? What is all this? I thought we were cool... That you knew I'd never hurt you... I thought we were not going to keep secrets from each other!" Amore turns to Octavia who is looking at the floor unable to speak.
"Oh, her heart has doubted you for a long time, little Amore. Despite all the loving bullshit she wants you to believe... Her heart is blacker than the darkest night and she fears you... You mistook her self survival for love... She never loved you!" Shintaku whispers into Amore's ear.
"That's wrong! I do love Amore! I just... Your sword scares me... You scare me... You're a much stronger vampire than I've seen... I don't know what to think or how to feel! Can you blame me?!" Octavia sharply looks at Amore unable to keep her normal, cool, composure.
Amore looks away from Octavia and glances at the screens before gritting her teeth and clenching her fist.
"Well... I guess if you're so afraid of me, we can't be together can we..?" Amore states sounding serious.
"Amore... You can't honestly want to break up after-" Octavia is cut off by Amore.
"Yes, I'm fucking serious! We said no secrets! You kept this from me when we could of talked it out! I don't know how to deal with this! I've never had to deal with this! I don't know what's going on with me, but if you can't trust me then I can't count on you! I can't fucking do this!" Amore states in anger as she heads for the door.
Octavia tries to grab Amore's hand, but it's smacked away hard before Amore storms out of the room. Shintaku floats around and lets the string flow back into Octavia's heart.
"You should of trusted her more... Oh well, guess you wont be a problem for them anymore... I suppose I can sleep again now~" Shintaku disperses and the light dims in the room along with the music stopping.
Octavia stares at the door and slides to the floor before staring at her hands and starting to cry. Octavia plays all the memories she has of Amore in her mind, from the moment they met to what happened just a few seconds ago. Octavia's sorrow and depression grows deeper and deeper the longer she stays there and contemplates her mistake.
Author's Note
Yay! Friction between the pair and they just broke up! "How can this get any worse" is what you're likely asking yourselves... Well, trust me when I say you will not have to wait long to see just how much worse I can make it. This is a deep wound and it will not heal quickly by any measure. I hope you will continue showing your support for this fic and stay tuned for more anime, reference, ridiculous drama.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Burning Bridges and Deep Emotions
Amore suddenly sits up sharply from her sleeping position in a cold heavy sweat. Wiping her face she looks around the room to see Derpy sleeping happily in her bed still. Glancing at the clock she can see it's only 6:30AM and normally the majority of the dorm gets up at 7:30AM to start their day. Throwing the quilt cover off her, Amore removes her sticky clothes and underwear before entering the bathroom and turning on the shower. She stands under the flowing water and let's it wash away her troubles. Amore clutches her chest and groans slightly as her head pounds violently. Banging her head against the tiled shower wall a few times she slides down to sit on the floor, still clutching her chest.
"W-what is happening?" Amore asks briefly through heavy panting.
Amore can see hazy waves of red stream down and around her vision, obscuring the light and making her woozy. Deciding to act fast she sinks her fangs into her arm and hopes the pain subsides her pounding head. As her own apple flavoured blood touches her lips she subconsciously begins drinking her own blood. Eventually Amore's vision clears up and the pounding in her head disappears.
"Ugh... That can't be good..." Amore states as she leans against the shower wall and relaxes as the cold water washes over her.
"Amore? Are you in here?" Derpy's voice can be heard as the bathroom door opens.
Amore opens her eyes and blinks a little before realising she is still in the shower. Derpy sighs deeply as she spots Amore and turns off the shower.
"You're hopeless... You're still not yourself, Amore." Derpy goes to help Amore up, but flinches back when she touches her skin.
"What's wrong?" Amore asks, getting up herself.
"Y-your skin is so frigging cold! How do you not feel that?!" Derpy states, rubbing her hands together rapidly to warm them up.
"I don't know... Can you girls manage the stall for a while and cover for me? I have to go see someone..." Amore exits the bathroom and rapidly dries herself before getting dressed and heading out.
Derpy sighs deeply to herself and gets in the shower after stripping to clean herself.
Princess Luna lays back in the bath and sighs deeply as she stares up at the ceiling watching the steam rise from the hot water.
"I have not visited this academy for quite some time. Never did I expect to step hoof on its grounds again due to your very interesting request... Lady Von Melody." Princess Luna looks opposite her in the slightly larger than normal bath at Octavia, whom has her head laid back with her eyes closed.
"I'm happy you decided to accept my request, Princess Luna. I have something I need to ask of you... I know that you're the most reasonable choice for what I seek to know." Octavia states as she opens her eyes and stares at Princess Luna.
Princess Luna ponders for a moment raising and lowering her leg out of the water and chuckles.
"You need not be so formal, Octavia. What is it that you require to know from me?" Princess Luna asks, looking curious.
Octavia looks distressed and hesitates to speak, but finally finds the words she has been searching for.
"I want to know everything you do about... Half-breed vampires, like Amore." Octavia swallows hard as Princess Luna smiles slightly.
"Half-breeds... When a vampire and a pony have a successful child like Amore, they have the powers of both sides. However, at birth and until awakened their vampire side remains dormant, sleeping till the day the child becomes of age. Even should said child become of age, their true vampire powers will not awaken until they have tasted the blood of a pure vampire... It is generally frowned upon to be a half-breed. I see it as jealousy that they do not have the benefit of choice like the half-breeds." Princess Luna begins to explain.
"What do you mean 'benefit of choice'?" Octavia asks looking confused.
"Half-breeds cannot stay that way forever... Inside them are two halves tugging for control. This is only should they awaken to their vampire powers... Like Amore. The hunger that we curse so much will continue to eat at her until she makes a choice." Princess Luna raises both her hands out of the bath water. "If she wants to be a normal pony or a vampire... If she fails to choose at this point, then she will be eaten away till only a husk is left. Then something else will take her place, something... Ugly, horrible and Feral..." Princess Luna states with some level of distress.
"What does she have to do in order to make her choice?" Octavia asks choking slightly.
"She must ingest one of two liquid substances. Either a vial of holy water or a vial of the pure vampires blood that awoke her. By ingesting the holy water, yes it will hurt like the fire of Tartarus itself... However, it's the only way to cleanse the vampire corruption from her body and make her normal. By ingesting your blood her normal side will die and be overtaken by the vampire within. Both methods share equal pain and suffering, which is why there are little to no half-breeds alive today. This is a choice she must make on her own..." Princess Luna sighs before getting out of the bath.
"So... She either has to become a vampire or a normal pony... Oh, Amore..." Octavia sinks low into the bath deep in thought, but keeps her nose above water level to breath.
"I envy the struggle of youth. Be patient with her and I'm sure she will make her choice soon, Lady Von Melody." Princess Luna exits the bathroom and leaves Octavia to her thoughts.
"I gotta do what?!" Amore shouts as she falls back onto the academy dojo floor.
Opposite Amore where her opponent would be, stands Night Glider sheathing her rapier.
Night Glider sighs deeply and crosses her arms. "You have to either drink holy water or the blood of the pure vampire who awoke you..."
"Octavia..." Amore mumbles as she stares at the ceiling.
"You can't ignore it as it will only grow and get worse... You literally have to choose whether you want to be a vampire or a normal pony. Either way I doubt it will affect the taste of your blood. It's up to you which you pick, I have no opinion on the matter." Night Glider sits down on a nearby bench.
Amore picks herself up from the floor and retrieves her sword, which is stuck into the ground nearby. She then joins Night Glider on the bench after getting some soda drinks.
"I don't know which I want to do... I guess part of me is saying to go back to being a normal pony because that's what I've known throughout my entire life. Compared to being a vampire which I've only known since our trip to Manehatten..." Amore muses as she stares at the ceiling.
Night Glider sighs as she opens her can and takes a few sips. "You know you're going to have to talk to her eventually... You can't avoid it forever if you're considering the vampire option. Either way I'd recommend talking to her at least once..." Night Glider states before getting comfortable.
Amore opens her can and also takes a few sips. "I know... I just don't know how to approach her after we parted when breaking up. I want to talk to her... I miss her if nothing else. I just don't know about what I saw... What that girl showed us."
"You told me she showed you Octavia's fears and such... It makes me wonder if you truly ever loved her." Night Glider comments finishing her soda.
"I did! I know that was real! I..." Amore stops herself after realising what Night Glider was implying.
Night Glider stands up and heads out of the dojo. "Really? If that was the case then you would have talked to her about the issues rather then run away... The Amore we all know isn't a coward... But we have no idea who in the name of Celestia you are, the saddest thing is... I don't think you know either."
Night Glider leaves the dojo and Amore crushes her half empty soda can spilling what's left on the floor. "Fuck... When did I become such a pussy... Running away like I did just because things seemed difficult... That isn't me, that's never been me... Who am I then if not me..?"
Amore throws the can away and stands up before leaving the dojo and sighing deeply, all the while cursing herself.
Vinyl is sitting on a pile of dead Order of Light followers drinking a wine glass of blood. Sitting in a chair near her is a Unicorn colt with a light opalish grey coat, his mane and tail are a dark grey. His eyes are a moderate cerulean. He wears a white T-shirt with a black, normal length jacket and black trousers.
"This assignment was a cinch, wouldn't ya say Neon~" Vinyl prompts Neon who rolls his eyes.
"You say that, but this hotel room now has to be cleaned... I don't know about you, but us Lycans are not exactly know for being 'clean'." Neon states while sighing deeply.
Suddenly Vinyl's ringtone goes off for her phone and she searches her pockets for it.
"Where da hell did I put my phone?" Vinyl asks, putting down her wine glass.
Neon holds up an electric blue phone with her decal on it. Vinyl blinks a few times before it's thrown to her.
"Umm thanks, where was it?" Vinyl asks as the ringtone still plays.
"Next to this dead Order of Light thug... The one you umm... yeah..." Neon looks away and sighs.
"Oh... Right." Vinyl finally answers her phone.
"Hey, mother..." Amore says, making Vinyl grin and relax in her chair.
"Hmm it feels good to hear you say that every time now. So, what can I do for you, Amore?" Vinyl asks swirling around her blood wine glass.
"Something happened and well... I kinda broke up with Octavia..." Amore states sadly.
"'Kinda broke up'?" Vinyl raises an eyebrow.
"Okay... I broke up with her because some mystical mare showed us Octavia's deepest fears of her heart or something..."
"Shintaku... Someone woke her up then... I'll explain about her later. You didn't even talk to Octy about these fears?" Vinyl asks looking annoyed.
"No... I kinda just freaked and didn't know what to feel... I've never been this close to somepony, I don't know what to do..." Amore states grunting in frustration.
"Talk to her... It's really all you can do to figure things out. I'm her old roommate so this is kinda weird having her date you. However, I've never seen you so happy other then when you're bashing ponies skulls in like a boss." Vinyl smiles and sighs.
"I want to, but I don't know how to approach her... I really fucked up this time, mother..." Amore grumbles.
"I'm sure you will find a way... I have to clean up some stuff here before I can visit you for the last day of the festival. See you soon." Vinyl hangs up her phone and sighs deeply.
Neon chuckles slightly making Vinyl look over to see a massive shit eating grin on his face.
"What? Is it that weird to see me as a caring, loving parent? Shut the fuck up and get back to work you wet dog." Vinyl throws a rag to him, which he catches still grinning knowing she is just playing.
Amore sighs and leans against the railing of the academy rooftop looking very depressed.
"Fuck my life..." Amore states.
"Having trouble?" A voice asks making Amore tense up slightly.
Amore stands up straight and looks to her right to see Octavia standing a little way from her.
"Tavi... What do you want?" Amore asks looking out towards the festival ground.
Without warning Amore suddenly feels a pair of arms wrap around her waist and Octavia's head rest against her back.
"I want you..." Octavia claims as she nuzzles Amore's back affectionately.
Amore chokes slightly unsure how to react and slightly starts to tear up as she tries to look at clouds.
"I've been thinking a lot since we met with that girl in the crypt... I came to realise I have been so foolish and stupid this whole time. My worries are so silly It's unreal... I know you'd never hurt me and I know you would never leave me." Octavia states, breathing deeply.
"I did leave though..." Amore comments sniffing trying to hold back her tears.
"I know, but you were confused and hurt by what you saw. I know I'm the first mare you have had feelings for... You have never had to deal with these emotions before. I understand you're frustrated and confused." Octavia cuddles Amore slightly tighter.
"How do you know..?" Amore asks.
"Because I love you and I realise that I don't need to be afraid of anything. I just wished I realised that sooner... If you need proof we can go see that girl again and see what's in my heart. However, I promise you that I'm fully trusting you and have unmoving faith in your ability." Octavia states as Amore turns around and buries her face in Octavia's chest.
"I feel like such a fucking moron... I should have talked to you about it, not run away like a little bitch. A Von Scratch doesn't run away from things like that... I'm so sorry..." Amore muffles through Octavia's blazer, as she strokes Amore's mane.
"Hush, Amore. It's fine... Everything will be okay. Did you want to get back together yet or do you want a little more time?" Octavia asks in a calm gentle voice.
"Just a tiny bit longer... I just want to figure out what I'm doing between being a vampire and normal Earth Pony. Umm... Can I move back in though?" Amore asks through wiping her tears.
Octavia chuckles and sighs holding Amore close. "Whatever you need. You can move back in whenever you feel ready. We can stay like this for a while if it'll help."
Amore nods happily and relaxes against Octavia as they warmly embrace each other.
Derpy is tuning her guitar behind the drawn curtain of the assembly stage as Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange setup their instruments.
"Do you guys think she is coming tonight?" Derpy asks looking sad.
"I'm pretty sure, unless she did something stupid again..." Aqua Streak mumbles before sighing deeply.
"Wishful thinking again Aqua?" Amore jokes as she strolls onto the stage to the girls.
"Yay! Amore made it~" Derpy sings as she jumps in place.
"So is everything set up for the song?" Amore asks taking her place at the microphone stand.
"Yes, we are just waiting to be introduced by our band leader." Scarlet Orange comments smiling.
Amore gives a thumbs up to a member of the drama club, who is by a rope attached to the curtain and starts parting them. The curtains part and the trio can see the same mass of festival fans as last night only more excited for their performance.
"How are you all tonight?!" Amore asks to hear a resounding cheer.
In the front row directly in front of the stage Amore can see Octavia, which makes her smile.
"Where are my Valentine boys this evening?!" Amore asks getting a much larger cheer from the middle of the large crowd.
Amore looks around to see Princess Luna and Valentine near the back. Princess Luna waves with a slight smile while Valentine is grinning wide with his arms crossed.
"Are you all ready to enjoy some music?!" Amore asks loudly.
"Yes!" The crowd cheer back, although an adorable squeak can be heard somewhere in the audience.
Amore signals to her band mates and they start up the song before she starts signing, Derpy provides the secondary voice.
I wanted you to know that I love the way you laugh
'Cause I'm broken when I'm lonesome
You've gone away, you don't feel me here anymore.
The worst is over now and we can breathe again
'Cause I'm broken when I'm open
The lyrics fade out and the band focus on the instrumental as Amore is smiling quite widely at the buzzing crowd. Below her she is reminded about Octavia and the happy face she bares, which makes Amore's heart beat faster. Looking at her band mates she knows she has never felt better, glancing at Derpy who simply smiles at her widely as they both prepare to finish the song.
'Cause I'm broken when I'm open
'Cause I'm broken when I'm lonesome
You've gone away
The song ends and the music fades out to the resounding applause of the audience, even Octavia is clapping louder than normal. Looking to the back Amore can see Princess Luna also clapping and smiling while Valentine is cheering with his bar section. Jumping down off the stage Amore hugs Octavia gently and sighs inwardly.
"I love you, Tavi. Give me until after the festival, I'll know what I'm doing by then." Amore pulls away slightly, smiling at Octavia.
"I love you too, Amy. Take all the time you need, I'm not going anywhere." Octavia whispers into Amore's ear, making her shiver and relax into her marefriend's embrace.
Author's Note
I hope you all enjoyed the drama through this chapter. This author's note is a little weird as I only now realise I never did a note for this chapter... Gotta love it when you do a note and not save... Anyway I completely forgot what I said. You have now learned so much more about half-breeds yay! After how many chapters? So... Yeah. Keep following and it'll get better. See you next time.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Octavia finds herself running down the large hallway of a mansion that has upper class vampire styled décor. The mare in question appears to be twelve years old and wearing an upper class dress with her signature choker, that has a black bat on the front. The sky outside is stormy and it's raining fairly heavily. Octavia bursts through a pair of large double doors to enter what looks like an upper class drawing room with a fireplace, sofas and armchairs. Standing in front of the large window opposite the fireplace stands two pony figures that are looking towards the window.
"Mommy? Daddy?" Octavia asks, stepping closer ever so slowly.
The female figure falls to the floor and their head rolls away from their body making Octavia's eyes open wide in horror. She then looks to whom she addressed as daddy and steps a tiny bit closer.
"D-daddy..?" Octavia asks, this time lightly.
The colt in question falls to his knees and in front of him can be seen another female figure. Lightning suddenly strikes across the window illuminating the whole room briefly revealing who the said mare is. Octavia chokes a little and her eyes become pinpricks as the mare she can see assaulting her parents, is none other than a sixteen year old version of herself.
The older Octavia looks at the younger version before plunging what seems like a sword through the head of her father and kicking him to the ground.
"Come now, little Octavia. Don't be afraid... You wanted this... You chose this..." The older version whispers as she steps closer to the young Octavia.
The young Octavia screams and begins running off back through the open door.
"No!!!" The young Octavia screams before everything blacks out.
Octavia opens her eyes with haste and darts them about the room, seeing she is back in her dorm room. Looking down beside her she can see a naked Amore stirring gently in her sleep. Relaxing back onto her pillow Octavia heaves a heavy sigh of relief before looking at the clock. It says the time is 7:25AM. Gently she leans over Amore and turns off the alarm clock so as not to wake her marefriend before moving back to her previous position.
"Nightmare..?" A soft voice asks from below Octavia.
Octavia sighs in defeat as she looks at Amore who has her eyes open, but not moved an inch.
"Something like that... Yeah." Octavia admits before Amore cuddles close to her.
"Want to talk about it?" Amore offers, not minding Octavia's sweat from her nightmare.
"I... It's a section of my past I've tried hard to bury... Even as much as I trust you, it's not something I wish to bring up at the moment." Octavia states as she relaxes against Amore.
"That's fine. Take your time, Tavi. I'd have a shower, though, before you go anywhere. I don't mind because comforting you is before making you have a shower." Amore chuckles as she buries her head in Octavia's chest.
"That has quickly become your favourite spot on my body hasn't it?" Octavia smiles slightly.
"For cuddling, yes. I'm sure I'll find a new spot somewhere lower for 'other' activities." Amore whispers as she slides a hand down Octavia's body.
Just as it's about to reach her marehood a knock is heard at the door and Octavia has to bury Amore's face in her breasts to stop her swearing.
"What is it?" Octavia asks.
"If Amore is still asleep, Aqua Streak wanted to know if she could help them set up early. Oh and Derpy had some news for her." The voice of Amethyst Star states.
"Thank you Amethyst. If that's all, I'll let her know." Octavia replies and they both hear her hoofsteps leave the door.
Octavia lets Amore go and her head springs out of Octavia's breasts taking a deep breath.
"Of all the Celestia dammed times to fucking show up, she has to show up right when I'm about to plunder your delicious bat cave for all it's gadgets!" Amore yells in shear disappointment.
"D-did you just compare my marehood to Batmare's bat cave? That was such a cheap comparison I don't even know where to start!" Octavia sits up and flicks Amore's nose.
"Ow! Well it was either that or the 'plunder your dungeon' nerd reference." Amore shrugs.
"Both are horrible and cheesy... Now get dressed and go to your stall. No fun for you during the whole day." Octavia states, getting up out of bed and stretching slightly.
"Aww, but that's not fair!" Amore protests as she also gets up and heads to her wardrobe.
"Well, you should of thought of that before you referred to my marehood as a 'bat cave', which is very large..." Octavia deadpans at Amore, unimpressed.
"Hey, I was on about the cool gadgets... Fine, I'll behave for the day. Only when it comes to sexual stuff with you though... I ain't stopping my regular fun." Amore states, getting dressed and walking into the bathroom to brush her teeth.
"Oh, and what fun might that be?" Octavia asks walking into the shower and turning it on.
Amore spits out the toothpaste and rinses her mouth out. Before brushing her mane and tail briefly.
"Maybe you'll find out some day. I'll label the documentary 'The Life and Times of Amore Sânge Von Scratch'. Sounds cool right? Anyway I'll see you later." Amore kisses Octavia 'goodbye' and leaves the bathroom.
As Amore opens the door to the room she mentally puts on the music track she normally starts her day to and walks out the room. Several other female dorm students waved her 'good morning' as she passed happily with a slight spring in her step. Reaching the stairs closest to her dorm room she sits on the banister and begins sliding down along the railing with a smile on her face. Heading towards the first floor she can see a male Pegasus student ranting to what looks like his vampire Unicorn marefriend.
"I'm telling you when I next see her she will go down! Amore's reign will end with me, I promise!" The male Pegasus pleads to the vampire mare.
Amore smiles wide as she leaps off the end of the railing and two step kicks the male Pegasus in the face sending him crashing into the wall and sliding down onto the floor unconscious.
"Sup" Amore greets the vampire mare with a wink as she strolls off down the hall, earning a sigh of relief from the mare in question.
Amore continues till she jumps past a group of three girls talking and exits out the main doors of the academy to see all the stalls that have been set up the past two days. She can see activity stalls for gold fishing, bobbing for apples, shooting etc. Walking along she can also see many food stalls for pies, candy, cooked food etc. She then stops at her stall and slides in past the curtain to be given some toast by Aqua Streak.
"Judging by your pissed off aura, I'd wager you got cock blocked by Amethyst Star again." Aqua Streak states while setting out some toffee apples on the stand next to some of Derpy's pink muffins.
"Was it that obvious? She never let's me and Octavia have a single playful morning together. Every time I get so close... She knocks on the door and brings up something that has to be done... Ugh it's so irritating." Amore complains as she sits down.
"Well... Least you're back with Octavia now." Scarlet Orange comments, as she is making more candy floss.
"That's one good thing... We have hardly had time to talk much since last night though. We went to bed after Octavia's feeding session... I'm still unsure where I'm heading." Amore sighs deeply and looks very depressed, stopping the music in her head.
"Cheer up, Amore. Look on the bright side, It's muffin time!~" Derpy lays out her freshly baked muffins on the table, this time a normal colour.
Aqua Streak looks at her watch and frowns slightly before sighing.
"Actually, it's only 8:00AM." Aqua Streak wears a deadpan expression.
Derpy looks shocked and her eyes go wide. "Somebody kill me!"
"What is this turning into? Reference weekly? There are so many references, like every chapter..." Amore comments with a single tone voice.
Scarlet Orange turns around and places a tray of candy floss onto the table and sighs.
"Amore, what are you on about?" Scarlet Orange asks, looking at Amore weirdly.
Amore shakes her head and stands up. "Nothing... I'm going for a walk."
Amore gets up and starts to head for the running track where she knows few ponies are.
Amore walks into the equipment shed and slowly makes her way to the back behind some gym balance beams. She then slams her back against the wall and slides down it to a sitting position, breathing heavily.
"This is becoming fucking annoying... it doesn't help that the only pony's blood I want is Octavia's... I'm still unsure of my route." Amore talks to herself between pants.
Amore can feel her heart pulse and her head throb as she tries to resist the vampire hunger that grows within her.
"You're such a stubborn mare, Amore." A comforting voice states as Amore looks up, her vision becoming hazy.
Octavia kneels down beside her and brings Amore into her embrace, softly stroking her mane.
"Tavi? Didn't you have a meeting this morning?" Amore asks, drinking in Octavia's scent heavily.
"Didn't you have a stall to tend? It looks like neither of us are where we are meant to be... Or perhaps, right here is indeed where we are meant to be." Octavia smiles warmly and pulls away from Amore slightly.
"I'm fine... I can handle this." Amore states with a half smile earning her a displeased look from Octavia.
"You need not fight this by yourself. Also it might interest you to know that it takes three sizeable consumptions of said Pure vampires blood in order for you to pick the vampire side. So in essence, so long as you don't feed on me a third time till you make your choice... You're good." Octavia runs her fingers through Amore's mane and glances towards the main door.
Hoofsteps are heard as somepony enters the equipment shed and looks around. Sighing deeply the figure takes a deep breath.
"I know you're in here and who you are with... This is serious and we need-" Amethyst Star is cut off by Octavia.
"I order you as the head of the Von Melody family to close the door and leave, Amethyst Star. This is not some little game you can whine your way out of... To persist in your current route would end with your very bloody demise." Octavia's voice carries a harrowing and spine chilling tone.
"M-my lady I... I never meant... I... I'm leaving..." Amethyst Star swallows hard and does as she is told before hastily leaving the pair.
"If you wish to quell this hunger for now, please take my blood... It pains me to see you suffer." Octavia whispers into Amore's ear.
Octavia makes her neck more accessible to Amore and she hesitantly sinks her fangs into Octavia's neck eliciting a small moan from the mare. As the blood touches Amore's lips and washes down her throat she can feel the fire inside her slowly die down as Octavia's sweet blood quenches her thirst. After several seconds Amore let's go of Octavia and stops drinking her blood.
"Do you feel better?" Octavia asks wiping some blood away from Amore's mouth
Amore nods and buries her head in Octavia's chest as they lay down on an exercise mat. Octavia starts running her fingers through Amore's mane softly as she holds her close.
"It feels a bit better... Guess this explains why there are so few half-breeds in Equestria. This hunger is intense... I just want to make a choice I know I won't regret." Amore states as she closes her eyes.
"It's fine... I'll be here to support you no matter which option you choose. Just rest for now, I'm sure your friends can handle the stall." Octavia comforts Amore as she slowly drifts off into a peaceful sleep.
Shintaku floats in the the middle of her room while pretending to sit on a chair. A tea pot and tea cup float in the air beside her, all the while that same eerie music ferments the air.
"What can I do for you, Big Mac? I see this time you brought your cousin with you... Braeburn..." Shintaku looks displeased by their visit.
Big Mac stands just in front of the entrance to her room. Beside him is an Earth Pony with a light gold coat with a Brilliant gamboge mane and tail that has brilliant amber highlights. His eyes are a Brilliant pistachio and he wears the same vampire hunter outfit as Big Mac.
"Hello... Shintaku. It would seem you have failed to do the job given to you by my sister..." Big Mac informs Shintaku who spits out her tea.
"Bullshit! There is no way anypony could ever recover from what I put them through!" Shintaku exclaims as she summons a screen and looks in at Octavia and Amore.
Shintaku's eyes widen and she drops her tea pot and tea cup from her magical grasp to have them smash on the floor.
"Looks to me like yer failing alright. My cousin will not be pleased to hear about this." Braeburn comments, placing his hands in his pockets.
"Shut up! I still have time to fix this... If this approach didn't work, I'll use a more direct method.. You two knuckle heads can help me with this... I'll explain the plan soon enough, for now I need to call in an old favour from your dear sister so I can complete my mission." Shintaku lands on the ground and dispels the screen.
"if it means they will be apart, you have our full arsenal of equipment at your disposal." Big Mac offers, looking curious at Shintaku.
"Oh it will... Those two made a fool out of my abilities and I will not stand for such insolence... They will pay dearly." Shintaku grits her teeth as she stares up, seemingly into space.
Octavia and Amore are walking past the running track holding hands as the sun begins to set in the distance.
"How long did I sleep? It feels like I've wasted the day..." Amore states in displeasure.
Octavia chuckles and smiles. "You were quite exhausted from your fight against the hunger. I was happy to cuddle with you and watch over you till you woke up."
"I know, but... I just hate to be a burden and I pretty much bailed on my friends..." Amore states, sighing deeply.
Octavia leans into Amore as they walk and smiles. "It'll be alright soon enough... You'll see everything will work out."
Amore seemingly relaxes at Octavia's words and calms down as they enter the assembly hall to see everypony gathered from the festival. Making her way to the stage she enters behind the curtain with Octavia and they can see her band preparing for tonight.
"You feeling any better?" Aqua Streak asks to which Amore nods.
"I hope this ends soon... You haven't been yourself lately and it bugs me." Derpy states looking sad.
"It will be over soon, I promise. Things are just a little rough inside for now." Amore tries to comfort Derpy.
"Are you ready to close the festival?" Scarlet Orange asks spinning her drum sticks around her fingers.
Amore nods and takes the stand after kissing Octavia and she leaves for her front row seat. The curtains open up shortly after and the crowd cheer loud in shear passion for the band.
"Wassup-" Amore begins but is cut off by another voice.
"Wassup Armonia!" A very familiar and overly excited voice asks from above.
Pointing a spotlight up into the beams of the ceiling non other than Vinyl can be seen standing up there with her wings flared out. She flies down and lands on the stand next to Amore and gives her an enthusiastic hug.
"Sorry I'm late... Work was a killer. By the sounds of things you have been doing well for yourself in the music scene. Valentine was kind enough to stream your last two performances to my phone. You rocked like no tomorrow." Vinyl praises Amore and ruffles her mane making her smile.
"Thanks mother. I really enjoy what I do, I also was able to have your old stuff from the room so I got your old IPod's and headphones. I use the really nice blood red pair~" Amore states with a wide smile.
"Cool, why not let your mother show you how good she was way back when. Granted I still put out music, but it's been a while since I did a gig like this." Vinyl asks as she removes her hand from Amore's mane.
"Yeah, sure. Knock yourself out~" Amore jumps down into the front row to join Octavia, who smiles.
"This should be interesting, seeing my old roommate perform after so long. What do you have planned now?" Octavia asks snaking her arms around Amore's neck.
"Hmm... I'm pretty sure I wanted to spend it with this amazing grey mare, but she doesn't seem to be here yet~" Amore comments teasing Octavia.
Octavia smiles and holds Amore close. "You're so bad it's unreal... Now do me one tiny favour for this evening."
"What's that?" Amore asks kissing Octavia's cheek.
"Shut up and dance with me." Octavia whispers into Amore's ear making her shiver.
"Let's get this party started! This is Dj PON-3 in the house!" Vinyl introduces herself making the crowd roar to life.
Vinyl signals to the band who happily accept her lead and they start the song with great enthusiasm.
"Oh don't you dare look back.
We were victims of the night,
She took my arm,
"Oh, don't you dare look back.
A backless dress and some beat up sneaks,
She took my arm,
"Oh, don't you dare look back.
Oh, come on girl!
Derpy begins rocking out on her guitar as Vinyl smiles widely at Amore and Octavia who are happily dancing together. Looking at the back of the assembly hall she can see Valentine who tips his hat to her. Princess Luna is also beside Valentine again and is swaying slightly to the music while smiling. Vinyl gives them both a thumbs up before carrying on.
Deep in her eyes,
She took my arm,
"Oh, don't you dare look back.
"Don't you dare look back.
Ooh-ooh-hoo, shut up and dance with me
Vinyl ends the song with flare and the entire crowd roar to an applause clapping wildly. Amore and Octavia are also cheering before Octavia decides to lead Amore out of the assembly hall.
Octavia gently presses Amore against some lockers as she leans into her.
"Hmm she is still just as good as ever it seems." Octavia comments, licking Amore's neck.
"Y-yeah... Seems that way doesn't it. I can't help but feel she picked that song because of us. Are you hungry?" Amore asks as her question is answered when Octavia sinks her fangs into her neck.
Octavia begins sucking Amore's blood softly making the mare moan. Amore wraps her arms around Octavia and holds her close.
"Hmm you know how much I love this... I doubt I could ever be without you, Tavi." Amore whispers into Octavia's ear.
Shortly after Octavia stops and they switch positions. Octavia brings Amore close and embraces her.
"It's your turn. This should keep you covered till morning so we can enjoy something else during the night." Octavia states as Amore lets her own fangs pierce Octavia's flesh.
Softly sucking out her blood Octavia hums in approval as she is fed upon. She runs her fingers through Amore's mane, taking in it's gorgeous scent as they share their moment.
Amore pulls away and kisses Octavia deeply, entwining their tongues in a passionate dance which lasts for a minute.
"Hmm what will we be enjoying this evening?" Amore asks, licking Octavia's neck clean.
"You'll see... Trust me, your going to love it." Octavia states playfully as she takes Amore's hand and starts to lead her back to their room.
Author's Note
I hope you all enjoyed this ending to the festival chapters. I actually forgot to say in my last author's note or even save my last author's note, that DMM will have a chapter released every Saturday. I will try to keep to this as best I can alongside everything else. Other then that I pray that what happened in this chapter has you wanting more with Shintaku's declaration. Things are bound to heat up so stay following and you'll see how crazy things can get. Also, yes, all the references, Amore... All the references.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Amore stands in front of the secret crypt entrance she and Octavia explored before. Amore looks at her full blood red longsword, tightly gripped in her right hand as she takes a deep breath.
"Everything was meant to go back to normal today... We were meant to go back to normal today..." Amore tightly grips a letter in her left hand which crumples.
Amore suddenly drops the letter and grabs her chest in agony, but keeps her standing while leaning against a stone tomb. She goes to bite her arm, but fights through the pain till it subsides and stands back up, panting heavily.
"That is really starting to badly hurt... Octavia..." Amore looks at the crypt entrance again before remembering the earlier events of the morning.
"The Order of Light did what?!" Aqua Streak yells as she sits on Amore's bed with Scarlet Orange.
Amore hands the letter she got to Aqua Streak and she skim reads it all the way down to the signatures.
"BM and B... Who do we know from the order that has those initials..." Scarlet Orange ponders before Aqua Streak's eyes shoot wide open and she quickly looks at the letter again.
"Big Mac and Braeburn! Lady Van Apple's right hand stallion and her cousin!" Aqua Streak states, dropping the letter to the floor.
"Who are they?" Amore asks, sighing deeply.
"Big Macintosh Van Apple is Lady Van Apple's big brother and right hand stallion. He handles all the major operations in and around Ponyville. Braeburn is their cousin... He might not seem like much, but he is a captain rank within the order." Aqua Streak begins to explain.
"We were the rank of Lieutenant which is second lowest. Braeburn is the rank of Captain, which makes him more skilled than us..." Scarlet Orange further explains as she looks down.
"So you're telling me... That the chick who used to be your boss ordered her big brother, her 'right hand stallion' to come here with his Captain rank cousin and steal Octavia away to the crypt... Which mostly likely means Shintaku is in with the Van Apples if they are using the crypt... Which means it was their plan to break me and Octavia up... Which means Shintaku hurt our relationship and brought out stuff Octavia could have done on her own when ready and she made me paranoid..." Amore raises an eyebrow.
Aqua Streak looks at Scarlet Orange who nods. Aqua Streak turns back to Amore and sighs deeply.
"Given what we heard during our time in The Order of Light... That sounds exactly like Big Mac's style of play. I should also add that he doesn't plan to let you or Octavia live. If you go along with his plan, he will most likely kill Octavia either before you arrive or after to watch you suffer." Aqua Streak explains.
Amore gets up and grabs her sword from the silver case under her bed. She spins it in her hand a few times and takes a few deep breaths.
"Tell the teach I'm gonna be absent today... If he has a problem with that he can go fuck himself... The Order of Light, Van Apples... I don't give a shit for nothing like that. They decided to fuck with me... They made the choice to fuck with my mare... They clearly made their bed... I'm gonna make those fuckers lie in it!" Amore turns around and kicks the door clear off its hinges making it fly past Derpy who was just about to pass by.
Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange stand up quickly and follow just outside the door to see Amore storm off down the hall.
"Bad day?" Derpy asks looking at Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange concerned.
"Something like that Derpy... We'll explain on the way to class." Aqua Streak sighs deeply.
Amore walks over to the entrance and hits the same switch she did before to make it open. After several seconds of nothing happening she sighs deeply and takes a few steps back. Using her sword she slashes at the entrance several times in quick succession.
"Knock knock mother fuckers!" Amore yells as she runs and kicks the entrance with all her force.
The entrance breaks and crumbles into many pieces which fly backwards opening the way. When Amore steps through she can see two colts in The Order of Light pure white robes knocked out in the rubble of the door she just broke. Smirking a little she continues forward to meet two more robed ponies, this time mares.
"Shit she broke down the door..." The first states.
"We must report this at once..." The second begins before turning around.
Amore sprints forth and two step kicks the second mare in the side sending her flying into the wall to their right. The first mare attempts to stab Amore with a silver dagger, but fails on multiple tries before she is smacked in the head by the end of Amore's hilt, knocking the mare out. Kicking the mare out of her way Amore makes her way through the trapped hallway she and Octavia went through before. Halfway down the hallway Amore can see a squad of four robed ponies. Two colts and two mares.
"She is here!" The first colt announces.
"Ready the crossbows!" The second colt commands.
The two colts kneel down and the four ponies produce crossbows which appear to hold silver crossbow bolts. Tilting her head to the side, Amore continues walking down the trapped hallway as arrows and flames are spewed forth behind her. The four ponies ready themselves and begin firing their bolts at Amore. Only a few bolts hit each time but she doesn't stop walking despite how much pain she is in.
"Who the fuck is this mare?!" The first mare exclaims.
"She was reported to be normal, what is this shit?!" The second mare panics as she drops her crossbow bolt on reloading.
Amore sprints forth and slams the first colts head into the wall to the left indenting it. The second colt is kicked back down the hallway into a gust of flames which sets him alight. The inflicted colt screams in agony and runs down the hallway inflamed. The first mare is slammed hard in the stomach by Amore's fist making her throw up. She is then slammed into the right side of where they are opposite the indented colt and knocked out. The second mare attempts to run down the hallway, but gets caught in the arrow and flame traps dying a horrible death. Amore casually walks to the other side before coming to a big double door.
"Just a little longer..." Amore whispers to herself as she calmly opens the door and steps through.
Upon breaching the threshold she can see two colts standing between her and Shintaku's room, where the thrones were before.
"Looks like you were right cousin... The Lieutenant rank shrimps stood no chance." Braeburn states, looking at Big Mac who scoffs slightly.
"They failed the Van Apple family and The Order of Light... We have bigger problems now." Big Mac states, taking his hands out of his pockets and looking at Amore.
"Where is Octavia..?" Amore asks, tightly gripping her sword.
"What does it matter... She'll be dead before-" Braeburn is cut short by Amore.
"I don't give a single fuck for your opinion! I asked you a mother fucking question and expect an answer!" Amore screams at Braeburn who recoils and reaches his hand behind his back, inside his coat.
"She is in Shintaku's room... Most likely dead, half dead or soon to be dead by now... Shintaku didn't like you messing up her reputation." Big Mac states, drawing a full metal silver longsword from behind his back, underneath his coat.
"I see... I'll be needing to enter that room... With or without your permission..." Amore states, putting herself into a fighting position.
Sinister chilling fight music ferments the room as Amore and Big Mac sprint off the spot to clash their swords together making sparks fly. As they push away from each other Braeburn tries to attack Amore quickly with his twin short swords, but ends up kicked in the face sending him flying backwards.
"Careful Braeburn! She is no weakling like the rest!" Big Mac warns Braeburn who grunts and stands up.
"Give her back to me!" Amore screams as she closes the gap between her and Big Mac while he yells at Braeburn.
Big Mac quickly counters and begins moving around the room fighting Amore. All he can do is counter, repel and attempt an opening. Amore two step kicks Big Mac back several feet across the floor, luckily he blocked and was able to absorb the blow. Braeburn flies in again and tries to attack Amore using very fast twin short sword techniques that normally work on lesser vampires. Amore grits her teeth and slams the bottom of her hilt into Braeburn's stomach making him cough up blood before she grabs his head and holds him tightly.
"You're pissing me off!" Amore throws Braeburn as hard as she can into a nearby pillar cracking and breaking it slightly making it bend in where he impacted.
Braeburn coughs up more blood and falls to the floor. Big Mac takes the opening and thrusts his sword into Amore's stomach driving it through her. Amore let's out a blood curdling scream of pain and attempts to slash Big Mac. He manages to barely dodge before getting a two step kick directly to the face which sends him into the pillar next to Braeburn's.
"Stop fucking around and give her back to me!" Amore screams as she pulls the silver longsword out of her body.
Big Mac stands up moving his shoulder slightly and helps Braeburn up. Suddenly Braeburn is impaled by Big Mac's thrown silver longsword which pins Braeburn to the pillar through his stomach.
"Fuck!" Braeburn spits out yet more blood.
Big Mac rushes to help, but is impacted with a hoof to the face which slides him across the floor. When he opens his eyes Amore is stabbing her longsword into Braeburn's thighs and lower legs making sure to twist her blade so he felt the most pain. Big Mac watches as Amore's sinister blood red vampire like aura gets darker and darker. Reaching for his cousins silver short swords nearby, Big Mac gets to his feet and readies himself as Amore is about to cut Braeburn's throat after cutting his arms.
"Hey, he is no longer a threat! Come deal with a pony who is you sadistic bitch!" Big Mac states, sprinting at Amore.
Amore quickly closes the gap and kicks Big Mac backwards before following up with a few heavy slashes. Her fighting style is more brutal and hard hitting than it was before. Big Mac can see her eyes have shifted colour and one of them is blood red while the other is flickering from aquamarine into blood red quite often.
"You're a half breed! So she gave birth after all!" Big Mac yells as Amore begins her flurry of attacks.
Both silver short swords are knocked from Big Mac's hands and he is kicked into the wall beside the exit door. Looking to get away quickly he is suddenly pinned in place by a short sword in either arm. Amore walks up to Big Mac and rests the tip of her sword against his throat.
"You won... Don't keep Octavia waiting..." Big Mac swallows hard.
Amore looks around for a sec before blinking. Her eyes return to aquamarine and she lowers her sword. After sharing a parting stare Amore heads for Shintaku's room, making the music stop.
"Come back you bitch! We can still-" Braeburn begins to taunt, but is silenced by Big Mac.
"For once in your life Braeburn, shut the fuck up! We could never hope to best her as we are now... Not even I could deal with her unique blood lust and compassion..." Big Mac begins as he pulls the swords out of his arms and walks over to Braeburn.
"B-but... What about Shintaku? She will reduce her to nothing more than paste." Braeburn tries to plead as he is let down from the pillar and onto the floor.
"Be quiet and save your energy... She missed your vitals on purpose, despite being in a blood rage... Her mane and tail style... Their colour... Not too mention her bright orange coat... She is most certainly the daughter of Vinyl Von Scratch..." Big Mac begins as he pulls out some potions and starts to mend Braeburn.
"Ouch! What's your point? That explains her mane and tail style plus colour with Vinyl being a vampire... What else is there to it? Her father?" Braeburn hisses as Big Mac applies some salve to his wounds.
"Not a father... But a second mother..." Big Mac states, as he picks up his longsword and presents it to Braeburn after tasting some blood on it.
"W-what? Want me to taste her blood?" Braeburn protests pushing the sword away.
Big Mac wipes up some and shoves it inside Braeburn's mouth making him scrunch his nose briefly.
"It tastes like freshly picked apples, right? There has only ever been one mare that you and I know of that has that kind of blood running through her veins..." Big Mac states, looking in the direction of Shintaku's room.
Braeburn's eyes widen in surprise. "Don't tell me she is the daughter of-" Braeburn is hushed by Big Mac's hand on his mouth.
"Not yet... I need all the facts before I can make a sound claim... However, it is surely looking in that direction... Her mother might just be..." Big Mac begins, but trails off towards the end.
Octavia is lying on the stone floor with blood scattered all around her and the room. Her normal student council uniform is torn and ripped all over, her blazer is cut in various places and sections are missing which expose her midsection. Her skirt is torn and cut to reveal sections of her thighs and her tights have been demolished almost entirely. A little bit in front of her stands Shintaku who is holding a very bloody version of Octavia's bowtie. An intense sinister music fills the room.
"Oh dear, it looks like you didn't last as long as you thought... I've been around far longer then fucking either of you! I've brought countless relationships to a violent and bloody end by making them doubt and suspect each other. Yet you two little shits insist on defying me and even get back together!" Shintaku lifts Octavia up in her magical grasp.
Octavia is then kicked hard into a nearby wall cracking it and making Octavia cough up a lot of blood. She is then allowed to fall onto the floor as Shintaku walks over to her and grabs her head before lifting her up to meet her eye level.
"I've raised armies of the fucking undead and had powerful minions at my disposal! I'm one of the most powerful Unicorns to ever walk this fucking land! You and your Von Melody family are nothing but insects! Don't even get me started on the Von Scratch family... You and that slut messed up my running streak of flawless break ups... Not only that, but Lady Applejack sent those two fuckers into my domain! You will pay me back in blood!" Shintaku rants as the doors to her room fly off and crash into the opposite wall.
Shintaku drops Octavia and turns around to see Amore standing in the doorway radiating a blood thirsty vampire aura and tightly gripping the handle of her longsword.
"Knock knock mother fucker..." Amore weakly states before cracking her neck.
"Well... you arrived a little early, but nothing I can't handle. I take it you're looking for this piece of vampire shit... I'm just about done with her, but my ride will be here soon so I can't give her back to you. Why don't we waste a little time in my dimension before it gets here." Shintaku grins as she snaps her fingers and the whole room is enveloped in darkness.
Amore opens her eyes to see that only her and Shintaku stand in complete darkness and a sinister music plays in the background.
"You remember this place... Welcome to my realm of infinite darkness! I'm going to kill you slowly and painfully for your crimes..." Shintaku grins as she begins floating again.
"Give her back to me!" Amore screams as she sprints at Shintaku.
Shintaku evades Amore's slash with ease before attempting a flip kick which is dodged and countered with a flurry of small slashes. Shintaku erects a shield to block them before throwing a ball of condensed magical essence at Amore, who cuts it in half making it explode behind her.
"My word... For a wounded slut you're doing decently... Let's fix that shall we?" Shintaku lands and summons a group of five floating swords held in her magical grasp around her.
Amore charges in again and takes the swords head on fighting them all at the same time. Shintaku uses the swords to slash at Amore which is narrowly evaded using a roll. Amore tries to follow up with a flurry, but is countered by Shintaku's own flurry of much faster magical swipes and slashes. Using her magical swords Shintaku sends each one flying at Amore only to have them deflected or dodged. The last sword stabs Amore straight through her right thigh making her scream in pain.
"Grr... You have been heavily wounded, stabbed many times by holy weapons... What will it take to rid myself of you forever!" Shintaku rants as the sword recoils back to her from Amore.
"Give... Her...Back... To... Me..." Amore vaguely says through pants.
Shintaku makes her swords disperse and she summons a legion of floating, sharp silver daggers. She begins to laugh sinisterly and holds out her arms.
"These are the daggers of dead ponies I've killed throughout the years... Each one carries their malice and hate towards me. By the end of this little spat, you and Octavia will be just another dagger among the pile... Taste their pain!" Shintaku screams as she flings her arms forward.
All the daggers point forward and fly from their position at Amore. Weakly bracing herself Amore is cut, scratched and enveloped in a sea of raging silver daggers. Every dagger attacks and tears her to shreds making sure to draw blood whenever they make contact. Some stab her, some cut her deeply or shallowly, some even cut her mane and tail. Shintaku snaps her fingers and the sea of daggers recoil back to their starting positions. Amore stands where she is heavily bleeding and panting hard while looking up, her face covered by her bloody mane.
"Let's see you continue living after an attack like that! Hmm..?" Shintaku stops and listens closely.
"Give... Her... Ugh... Give... Her... Back... Give her back to me!" Amore states weakly before shouting it.
Shintaku grits her teeth and clenches her fists in pure rage. She holds one hand up to make all the daggers begin to gather and form into one bigger than normal longsword made from silver.
"Just die! You will never be with her again, not even in death! Die! Die! Die!" Shintaku raves as she charges the blade with her magic and makes it radiate her essence.
Shintaku throws the longsword with all her might at Amore and smirks to herself. Amore shifts her mane slightly to see with one eye the sword that approaches her. Using her longsword she tries to set up a defence. The silver longsword impacts Amore's and breaks it in half before slamming directly through Amore's stomach straight out into the floor behind her. Coughing up an intense amount of blood Amore is brought to her knees with a sizeable wound through her stomach. The darkness and music begin to dissipate showing the room again, the music stops. The silver longsword behind Amore dissipates as well.
"That should finish you..." Shintaku pants before looking up at a loud noise above them.
Suddenly a massive pike head comes through the ceiling before ripping it off in a perfect square. The entire ceiling plus all the ground between them and the surface is flung into the air and the sky can be seen. Smiling widely Shintaku can see an enormous Zeppelin hovering above them flying the Van Apple family's colours.
"Well, looks like my ride is here. I'll be taking Octavia and coming back for you once you are dead... Goodbye Amore." Shintaku states happily as she begins floating and picks up Octavia in her magical grasp.
Shintaku leaves the crypt with Octavia and cackles as she flies away leaving Amore broken and beaten. Amore spits some blood onto the ground and groans in pain. She looks around the room with her blood hazy vision before her nose picks up a very familiar scent. Looking over to the left slightly where Octavia laid before, Amore can see a big puddle of Octavia's blood. Using her fist she slams it into the ground making a bowl shaped dent. Not bothering to use her hands, Amore dives her mouth into the blood and begins drinking it heavily. After the puddle is diminished to a small spot Amore can feel a sharp pain shoot through her entire body. She grips the handle of her broken longsword tightly before her vision is enveloped in darkness again.
Opening her eyes suddenly she finds herself in the same position she was before in a mysterious realm where the entire landscape is pure white. A single blood red tree is nearby with a pool of blood all around it, like a moat. Suddenly another version of Amore walks out of the pool, she is wearing very skimpy vampire styled pitch black armour. Her eyes are both a fresh blood red. The vampire Amore walks over to her and kneels down lifting her head slightly.
"Oh, poor Amore... They beat you bad didn't they? You want the power to devour them. Make them beg for death. I can give this to you-" Vampire Amore is cut off by another version of her voice.
"Neigh! Thou shalt not listen to this vision of darkness!" The voice booms across the landscape.
A third version of Amore stands on the other side of her wearing normal steel armour in the same skimpy design.
"Ugh... That armour..." Amore weakly states.
"Oh thou shalt not complain about thy own imagination... You know your own strength... You can still win this!" The normal Amore states in defiance.
"Don't be stupid! She tried this with her own strength and she lost!" Vampire Amore stands up.
"Silence! Both of you hold your tongues!" A familiar, comforting voice silences them both.
A vampire styled door appears near the tree and opens. Octavia walks out shortly after and the door morphs into bats which converge on the naked mare forming her normal school uniform. She walks over to Amore and kneels down.
"You fought hard... I'm not the real Octavia, but a figment of your mind helped along with the blood you have drank. You know what this is... It's your choice which one you want to be... Just remember what you want to protect and who this choice is for." Octavia comforts Amore.
"I couldn't protect you! I failed the mare I loved the most because I was too weak! I got to where I am because I had the power to do so... But here... I'm no longer in that normal world... I'm no longer strong enough to protect you. There are enemies now who are even stronger than us... I can't stay like this..." Amore begins as tears start to fall from her eyes.
"S-so... Your choice..?" Normal Amore says weakly.
"I told you she would pick destruction over-" Vampire Amore begins, but is cut short.
"Shut up! I don't care about destruction or making others bend to my will... I don't care about what I become... I don't give two shits if I end up in Tartarus or wherever this ridiculous adventure takes me! I will never care how bad it gets... No matter how much pain I'm in I'll carry on! I swear to never be weak again and I'll protect you no matter the cost... Octavia." Amore states crying heavily.
"Do you mean those words..?" Vampire Amore's voice sounds darker and more serious.
Amore looks up suddenly to see her normal version willingly being absorbed into the vampire one. Octavia is then absorbed and she stands before Amore.
"Will you vow to that? Do you pledge to never let another piece of shit harm her again like this? And if they do you'll show them that there are worse things than death? I'll give you this power, become one with you... Never forget the emotions you just felt and who you felt them for..." Vampire Amore states before the entire landscape disappears.
When Amore next opens her eyes she looks up at the tail of the leaving airship. Her hazy vision is gone and the pain has stopped. Amore stands up and holds her stomach, which has healed.
"Tavi..!" Amore yells as a sharp sincere pain shoots through her body.
Amore feels her whole body heat up as her heart begins to race in her chest. Suddenly she is surrounded by a growing blood thirsty aura and her vampire wings spring forth from her back. Her wings start to grow slightly, turn darker and become more sinister. Amore's vampire fangs grow slightly as well to the kind that Octavia have, compared to her original somewhat smaller fangs. Her blood thirsty aura increases to become a deep violent blood red which extends down to her sword. The hilt and remaining blade of her sword begins to bubble and melt as it reforms itself. The hilt morphs to take on a bat-like appearance, the blade shifts itself back into it's full length, but at half its width. Feeling her blood pumping and her fury rise more and more she looks up at the airship and cracks her neck.
"Shintaku!" Amore screams, as she spreads her wings and flies out of the crypt ceiling exit.
Vinyl is leaning against the railing of the academy rooftop bouncing her head to a song which is blasting from her headphones. In the distance she can see Amore fly up from the destroyed crypt ceiling and a massive grin creeps across her face when she notices the aura surrounding her.
"Welcome to the family, Amore." Vinyl sighs to herself before turning to her right.
Flutterbat walks over to Vinyl who turns down her volume so she can still hear the song, but also Flutterbat.
"It would seem Shintaku is up to her old tricks again..." Flutterbat states leaning against the rail.
"Like you didn't know... Nothing happens on this campus you don't know about. However, Shintaku has bitten off more then she can chew by taking Octavia from Amore." Vinyl jumps up onto the railing and stretches.
Flutterbat looks puzzled. "What makes you so sure Shintaku will lose to Amore?"
Vinyl takes a deep breath and wears a wide grin as she watches Amore dodge the oncoming weapons fire from the airship.
"Because... One does not simply fuck with a Von Scratch..." Vinyl jumps off the railing and spreads her wings to begin flying towards the Zeppelin.
Flutterbat sighs deeply before holding her side. "Yeah... Don't I know it..."
Amore dodges wave after wave of oncoming weapons fire as she looks for an entrance to the massive airship. Suddenly the loading ramp to the airship lowers and two Order of Light grunts can be seen loading crossbows. Amore speeds over to the ramp and kicks one of the grunts off as she lands. The remaining grunt fumbles with the crossbow and drops it which triggers it firing a bolt up through their head. The now lifeless corpse falls off the ramp and Amore rolls her eyes. Moving up the ramp she encounters three more grunts who pull out silver engraved pistols.
"We should try out these new weapons Lady Van Apple issued us to deal with these supernatural scum." The first grunt states as they aim at Amore.
Amore sprints from her position and cuts down the first two grunts before being shot in the shoulder by the third. Her bullet wound sizzles and stings making her glare at the last grunt who is swiftly dispatched like his friends. Searching the airship, Amore leaves no room un bloody with Order of Light blood as she calls out Shintaku constantly. After flooding countless floors and making her way to the bridge she kicks open the door to see Octavia on her knees and Shintaku wielding her duel silver longsword's, held in her magic.
"You are a persistent creature... I thought you would die in that pit, not evolve to whatever the fuck you are now. How the fuck did you even do that?!" Shintaku screams as she sends her swords towards Amore.
Amore deflects Shintaku's silver swords and follows up with her own flurry of slashes which sends waves of her aura towards Shintaku, who tries to block using her swords. As the aura makes contact with her swords they are cut into small pieces. Shintaku grits her teeth, but before she knew it she was slammed into the back wall by a heavy two step kick. Amore then proceeds to give Shintaku no quarter as she delivers a series of lightning fast punches which pound every inch of Shintaku.
"One. Does. Not. Simply. Mess. With. My. Mare!" Amore states between her vicious and very violent punches.
Once Amore finishes and Shintaku is left very wobbly, bleeding and sincerely beat up, Amore starts to walk away, but suddenly turns around sticking her longsword into Shintaku's chest, pinning her to the wall. Amore then two step kicks Shintaku with all her remaining force, the impact sends her flying backwards through the wall and into the air, rapidly falling from the airship. Amore walks over to the control console and grunts as she holds her chest. Shaking her head she uses her fists to total the console after setting it to crash. Walking over to Octavia, Amore picks her up before flying out of the same hole Shintaku was kicked out of. Amore flies a safe distance away from the airship as she watches it head towards the ocean to crash.
"You'd tear the world apart if it meant saving me, huh?" Octavia weakly says as she opens her eyes.
"That and more... You mean the world to me and I'd never dream of losing you to anyone... I'm yours to keep and I hope you'll be mine." Amore states, holding Octavia close.
"You might as well be asking me to marry you. Thank you... Amore. I see you picked a path... How much pain are you in right now?" Octavia asks resting her head against Amore's chest.
"Let's just say... Too much to keep flying for long... Huh?" Amore looks down at her very damaged skirt towards her flank.
Upon her flank is a picture of a blood red heart shaped apple that has a metal longsword going straight down the middle of it. Coming out of the top of the apple where the sword slides in is a blood drop. Amore wears a deadpan expression before sighing deeply.
"I know it'll bug a lot of ponies for this... But I'm gonna figure that shit out much later... I need to rest..." Amore states weakly to Octavia.
"I'm not even going to ask who you mean... Does a nice warm joint bath sound good right about now? Along with some blood, both fresh and chilled." Octavia offers as she breathes deeply taking in the fresh air.
"That sounds perfect... I hope Principal Flutterbat doesn't mind we broke her crypt..." Amore muses as she starts to fly towards the academy.
"Hmm... She'll get over it. Let's just go home and rest. You're going to be in a great deal of pain for the next few days... I want you comfortable, so no class for either of us till you're healthy again and no picking fights... you don't need that." Octavia nuzzles Amore's chest affectionately before closing her eyes.
Author's Note
I apologise for being two days late. I'm publishing this late at night and I couldn't get a proof read Saturday. I hope you all like the over the top fights and action. Amore has now not only made her choice, but finally got her mark. For all of you who didn't know... Yes, she was a blank flank. I think that was mentioned in the second chapter during her nightmare, but anyway it's mentioned again just in case. The next three chapters will be much calmer. The first chapter after this one will be a very interesting and silly relax chapter. The next two after that will be calm as well, but hold a lot of story and character development. Then once those three are done... Onwards to the next story arc! So see you soon!
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
The Legacy that is Von Scratch
Amore stretches her arms and rubs her eyes as she stares at the open sky above her. Scarlet Orange, Aqua Streak, Octavia and herself are driving down a long open road in Aqua's car. Octavia takes a deep breath and exhales sharply.
"Hmm the air here is good for you, I think." Octavia chimes happily.
"Yeah, great... Explain to me again why me and Scarlet are coming along?" Aqua Streak asks, looking in her wind mirror with a deadpan expression at Amore.
"Because your the only one who can drive... Plus it helps to have some company with where we are going." Amore replies yawning.
"Amore, we are only going to your family's estate out in the country, what is so bad about that?" Octavia asks, reaching over to hold Amore's hand.
"It's my family's estate? Do you see the problem? The family I didn't even know I had until a month or so ago when my mother happened to be there on our trip to Manehatten..." Amore states with some distress.
"Oh, yes. I seem to recall an event of that nature... Look, it'll be fine." Octavia tries to comfort Amore.
"Yeah, I'm more worried with the fact you're dragging along two ex fucking order of light goons! Any pony would think you're trying to get us fucking killed!" Aqua Streak points out, also with distress.
"There seems to be a lot of distress in these dialogue lines..." Scarlet Orange comments.
"I know, right? It's like somepony is trying to make a point..." Amore looks up at the sky biting her lip with a frustrated expression.
"You have been really moody the last day or two... It's not that time is it?" Aqua Streak asks, looking back at Amore.
"Fuck you, Streak." Amore states flatly.
"Now, now... Amore is currently going through her vampire change. The last two days have been extremely painful and we have hardly ventured from our room. Today is her last day, hence why Vinyl invited us to the Von Scratch family estate." Octavia informs Aqua Streak.
"She flew in our fucking window, forced me outta bed and said, 'Come on squirt! Your coming back home for your ritual! What the fuck you doing? Get outta the fucking bed!' She then went on to flip our bed upside down and fuck off out the window again..." Amore recites the event with dramatic flare and a pissed off tone.
"Okay... Maybe she wasn't the most subtle mare ever..." Octavia admits.
Octavia sighs and sits back against her seat before noticing that Amore seems to be fidgeting a lot. Undoing both their seat belts she suddenly preforms a manoeuvre which pulls Amore on top of her and slides her underneath Amore so they lay across the back seats.
"No funny business in the back, I'm not washing Amore and Octavia love juice outta ma seats!" Aqua Streak protests to Octavia's display, but is ignored.
Octavia rolls her eyes before cuddling Amore closely. "You have been unable to sit still since we passed that gas station leaving Ponyville. Also, seeing as your being extra squirmy as I cuddle you. I can only conclude that you are very very aroused."
"Well, yes... I'm also hungry... Kinda unable to have our morning session with my mother's rude awakening..." Amore sighs deeply as she nuzzles Octavia's neck.
Octavia adjusts her collar and allows Amore to sink her fangs into her neck and begin feeding. Octavia runs her fingers through Amore's mane softly as her blood is sucked and slowly creeps her other hand down between Amore's thighs to lightly stroke her nethers making the mare in question stop sucking and moan slightly.
"That was so unfair and such a cheap tactic..." Amore pouts as she licks her lips.
"Hmm, worked though didn't it..." Octavia stares at Amore with half lidded eyes.
The pair are suddenly sent flying into the foot wells of the back seats putting Octavia on top of Amore squishing them together in the tight space.
"Aqua you mother fucker! You totally just cock blocked me!" Amore protests from underneath Octavia.
"As much as I'm not sorry for that... You really need to take a look at this..." Aqua Streak states as the victim pair get up from the foot well.
Amore rubs her muzzle before looking forwards at two big heavy metal gates connected to a stone wall fence. Past the gates is a huge castle estate with a large garden and stature decorations. The gates slowly open allowing Aqua Streak to drive in and follow the driveway to the front of the castle. The gang get out of the car and see Vinyl standing at the top of the stairs, slowly making her way down with her arms outstretched, a massive smile on her face.
"Amore, my girl. I'm so happy you actually got out of your bed to come to the reunion party." Vinyl states, hugging Amore as they meet halfway up the stairs.
"You kinda didn't give me a choice this morning... You flipped us out of bed." Amore protests as they break apart and walk up the stairs to the castle doors.
"Yes, well... You needed to come here regardless. This is the third day in your transformation. After today you will have picked a side within you and will have the power to move on. I must warn you though, our family is somewhat an odd bunch." Vinyl explains as she opens the door and they enter the castle.
The main hallway of the castle is large and decorated in fairly medium tone purples and blues. A wide gilded black carpet stretched up the whole length of the hallway to the end. Either side of them on the walls are portraits of various ponies who have wild mane styles.
"These are all former members of the Von Scratch family. Also dotted around the castle are various trophy's and gold records that our family has achieved during our time in this world." Vinyl explains pointing to each of the portraits.
"Wow, this is so cool... I can't believe my family is so awesome." Amore stares all around them in awe.
Vinyl leads them to the end double doors and opens them with flare as they step into a very large gather hall which is set up for a party. There are countless ponies in attendance who have various mane styles mostly in abnormal colours like Vinyl and Amore. Octavia looks around the room before spotting a mare leaning against the wall with a decently sized group of Von Scratch family members. She has a pure white coat like Vinyl, but her mane is slicked back and in the same colours as Amore's only with more red than black. The mare wears a blood red waist coat which bares a dark red skull pattern on it, navy blue jeans with a black belt and a black leather armband around her right arm with a pair of dark blue pilot shades in contrast to Vinyl's signature purple shades.
"She an ex of yours?" Amore asks, teasing Octavia who sighs.
"Not exactly, I met her a while ago in Las Pegasus. She was apparently after a hunter who had me as a target. Needless to say she was a tad slow and I dealt with him myself. She was quite shy if I remember correctly." Octavia explains.
"Oh her? That's Hope Scratch, my sister and your aunt. She is a quiet mare mostly, but shares my love for music. You'll get to meet many members of our family soon enough, but first you should meet your grandparents. You might actually already know them." Vinyl states as they approach a mare and stallion who are sitting down on sofas by a large fireplace in the hall.
"T-that's... There is no bucking way!" Amore exclaims, her jaw dropped wide.
Sitting before her on the sofa is a light blue mare with a light grey mane and tail, she wears a medium length dress that reaches her thighs, the torso has downward black and white stripes while her skirt takes a more fashionable route. Around her neck is a dark pink scarf and on her face is a thick black framed pair of pink glasses that hide her eyes. Beside her sipping a wine glass of blood is a dark blueish grey stallion with a light sapphire blueish grey mane and tail that has light grey stripes in it. He wears a rather extravagant suit with gold cuff links on his sleeves. On his face is a pair of dark purple glasses which also hide his eyes.
"Photo Finish and Hoity Toity! Are you shitting with me?!" Amore finishes her shocked sentence.
"Nope, I assure you they are your legit grandparents. Well, go say hi." Vinyl shoves Amore towards the pair sitting down.
Photo Finish eagerly stands up and hugs Amore who is unsure quite how to react.
"No need to be so tense, darling! Although I can understand the awkwardness of this whole thing. You have been all alone up till now, so cruel of my own daughter to forbid us to see our one and only grandchild." Photo Finish states, looking dramatically at Vinyl who rolls her eyes.
"Precisely, we had to worry year in and out wondering how you were doing. Vinyl would write to tell us of your progress, but she left out so much..." Hoity Toity joins his wife's dramatic display.
"As head of the house it's my responsibility to keep her safe... You both knew what I did was to protect her." Vinyl states, folding her arms defiantly.
"Darling, you know we have never questioned how you handle yourself or the family. Amore should consider herself lucky she will not inherit the head position yet, that has many more years to come." Photo Finish explains, sitting back down.
"More importantly, what is a Von Melody doing here? The head of their house no less." Hoity Toity demands, looking at Octavia.
"She is with me and is my marefriend..." Amore informs in a flat tone.
"Ah... Forgive my rudeness. I didn't mean to upset anypony. As you know some members of our two houses have been at odds for a while now." Hoity Toity states while looking at Photo Finish who rolls her eyes behind her shades.
"That's down to a difference in musical opinion, I doubt anything will come from it." Octavia smiles.
Vinyl stretches and brings Amore to her, placing her arm over her neck.
"Well, squirt. It's nearly time for your ritual. Once it's complete, you wont feel any drastic change in mood or pain inside here." Vinyl pokes Amore's chest a few times.
"That'd be nice... When does this start?" Amore asks, looking at Vinyl who tilts her shades down.
"Very soon, for now I want you to go check out your room with Octavia. I'll send for you when everything is in order. Hey, Big C, get over here!" Vinyl calls out into the large hall and a stallion suddenly appears beside Amore.
The stallion is wearing a full butler outfit and bows to Amore. His coat is a dark grey, his mane and tail are a dark blood red and his eyes are a dim blood red.
"Hell, my lady. My name is John Charles Edward Nathaniel Adams, but you may call me whatever you wish." John states, removing the glove from his left hand and extending it to Amore.
"Umm... John is fine I guess. I'm Amore." Amore shakes John's hand while sighing deeply.
"Show Amore and Octy to her room for me." Vinyl asks, getting off of Amore and wearing a big smile.
John bows before whisking Amore and Octavia away through a nearby set of doors and out of the main hall.
John opens the doors to a seemingly large bedroom decorated in various forms of red and black furniture. An elegant sofa set up sits in front of a decorative fireplace, a large four poster bed sits directly opposite the door at the back of the room. Various posters of musical artists Amore knows she likes hang on the wall by her desk which has a DJ mixing table set up on it. Beside the mixing table is a large speaker set up which puts a wide smile on Amore's face.
"If nothing else, mother has good taste." Amore twirls around as she looks at her room and appears very happy.
"Lady Vinyl Von Scratch will be pleased to hear you like your room. She has tried to keep it updated as you have grown up and modify it to reflect your interests." John informs Amore who leaps onto her bed to lay on her back.
Octavia enters and looks around the room, smiling softly as she walks over to the bed. She sighs deeply before crawling onto it and cuddling up to Amore.
"Such a nice room you have, my dear." Octavia states with a smile.
"Thank you... I guess mother isn't so bad after all. It's going to take time to get used to all this new stuff." Amore sighs deeply.
"The ritual will commence in a few hours so you have time to rest and explore your room. I must attend to some preparations for the party that will follow your ritual, excuse me." John bows slightly and leaves, shutting the doors.
"Tavi, what would you say if I said I felt like giving up fighting..?" Amore asks turning on her side to face Octavia.
"Are you having one of your swings again? That is most unlike you to even consider such a thing." Octavia states, very surprised.
"I don't know... It just feels like fighting has become a chore rather than fun now... Before I picked countless fights growing up just to drown the pain. Then it became a habit, that evolved into a love. I found I was good at fighting, at winning. I lived to feel that rush during combat when you were so close to the edge, those narrow misses and close calls. I've never been so good with words or learning... So I stuck to what I knew." Amore explains looking sad.
"Which is fighting. What has you feeling so different about it?" Octavia asks, placing her hand on Amore's cheek.
"It just feels that since coming to Armonia a lot of responsibility has been dumped on it... That it's no longer something I do because I love it. That if I don't fight then those I love will get hurt... I don't want to fight if it's something I'm forced to do... I always had a choice, now it just seems like I don't have any..." Amore sighs as she cuddles up to Octavia.
"I understand the order is an annoying thing... I know they recently put you in a position which forced you to fight, but don't let them dictate who you should be... Our academy is built on the beliefs of so many individuals..." Octavia stands up and sighs. "You taught me so much when you came here... I used to think fighting was just another means to an end. A way to get what I want and make others obey me... Dominant power was all I cared about back when I landed in that courtyard... When we fought, you put up such a carefree fight. You didn't give a shit if you got hurt or damaged, you lived for the thrill of facing an equal opponent. You wanted a challenge... During the course of that fight I got so carried away, that I didn't care about the academy's honour or anything so trivial... I was really enjoying fighting somepony who wasn't taking life so seriously. That you gave off such a powerful aura, such confidence in yourself... That's the Amore I fell so madly in love with, the mare lying before me seems like such a lost version of her former self... It makes me sad..." Octavia states before quietly leaving.
Amore rolls over and stares at the ceiling, a million thoughts running through her head. Amore glances over to the mixing table before jumping up and walking over to inspect it. Looking it over she can see that it's the model she first played on back when she took an interest in music. Biting her lip she runs her hand along the right edge of the table, eventually running them over an engraving, she feels out the letters that make up 'AMR-3'. The engraving is crude and shabby, likely done with a pocket knife or other sharp instrument.
"I was wondering where you went..." Amore mutters to herself.
"You left it behind at the house after the attack... I decided to pick it up and keep it safe for you. I have done nothing to it, but dust it every now and then. It's still the same board I watched you come alive on." Vinyl walks over from the doorway.
"Knocking much? Thanks... For saving it... I really like the room, you actually were watching me all those years growing up." Amore sighs deeply.
"Yes, I didn't want to miss a single moment. I sent a few musical gifts and kept sending that old git support money for you... I was always there, just not physically... When you got into fights I wanted to help, but I remember a certain fire in your eyes. You never wanted saving, you loved to fight. You have come a long way, what are you afraid of?" Vinyl asks, looking at Amore.
"Changing... I don't want to change. It's not the sucking blood, Octavia actually tastes really good. It's not the wings, those are damn cool. I'm just afraid of me changing, like I don't want to change who I am..." Amore states, leaning into Vinyl's shoulder.
"Wait to figure things out during the ritual. Every member of our family undergoes it at some point in their life. It helps you decide which path you want to go down. Our curse isn't just that... It's a part of who we are. If we want to take that in or not it is our choice. You have every right to reject it, however, the ritual might change your mind." Vinyl begins walking towards the door.
"Will you come get me, instead of John, for the ritual?" Amore asks.
"Sure, just get some rest and relax." Vinyl states softly as she leaves and shuts the door.
Amore finds herself standing in front of a large highly decorated reinforced metal door that has vampiric engravings on it. Taking a deep breath she nods to Vinyl, who is standing beside, her and inputs a code into the number panel next to the door.
"I have to ask... Why is the door so heavily reinforced?" Amore asks, looking nervous.
"These rituals have been seen to get a bit... Violent at times." Vinyl smiles slightly.
Amore steps past the doors into the large hall which she can see has a long blood red carpet leading up the centre to an elevated platform which holds a pedestal and bowl on it. Amore walks along the red carpet up to the bowl and can see a sharp dagger sitting beside it.
"I hope you can hear me, it's been a while since we tested the speaker system installed in the chamber. You have to spill some of your blood into the bowl." Vinyl explains over an intercom system.
Taking a deep breath Amore picks up the dagger and cuts her right hand deeply to begin filling the bowl with her blood. Once quarter full she stops and the engraved runes below and around the pedestal light up blood red. They then begin to spark to life and the blood within the bowl ripples. Amore jumps backwards from the bowl and holds her head in pain as something tries to force it's way out of her. After dropping to her knees, some pitch black entity forces its way out through Amore's mouth and dives into the blood bowl making it explode in a blood cloud.
"Ah~ I was wondering when you would undergo this trial... You have become so boring and weak to listen to..." A very familiar and playful female voice states.
Amore looks towards the elevated platform once the cloud settles and her eyes widen at what stands before her. On the platform is the vampire armour clad version of Amore she met before she faced Shintaku a second time. The Amore in question stretches and flexes her fingers before using the surrounding blood to form normal Amore's reformed longsword.
"W-what the hell are you doing here? I thought I absorbed you and the others back when we defeated Shintaku." Amore stands back up.
"You see, here is the thing... Your cells remain in a constant flux during your three day rest period. During this time nothing is certain and there is still a chance to become normal. However, for those wishing to become a vampire you must undergo the ritual. This ancient rite determines where you belong in vampire society, what level your abilities are at and so forth... Least this is what I know from your vampire blood. So, the bottom line is you fight me and finally absorb the power you are meant to hold... Or I kill and absorb you, taking your place in this world and get to have some fun." The vampire Amore explains.
Amore's silver case is dropped from the ceiling and she opens it to find her longsword which is in its new form since fighting Shintaku. Picking it up Amore throws the silver case aside and sighs deeply.
"I don't want to fight..." Amore states, throwing her sword to the opposite side, away from her silver case.
"Then die!" Vampire Amore states as she flies towards Amore and punches her in the face.
The resulting impact sends Amore rolling across the floor and into a pillar.
"I don't understand you at all, Amore. Since when did the host I belong to get so weak? It'll be a release for you, I'm sure, when I take your place and let you get away from it all." Vampire Amore comments as she punches Amore through the pillar and across the floor again.
The glass windows of a viewing booth can be seen above the large metal door entrance. In this booth Vinyl, Octavia and Vinyl's parents, Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange are sitting on chairs watching the fight.
"What is she doing? Why doesn't she fight back..?" Octavia asks, wearing a pained expression as she watches Amore.
"I don't believe she can... She feels so weighed down by everything that she doesn't have the spirit to fight. All this shit about the order and our war... Not being strong enough to protect the ones she loves or holds dear... I went through the same stage when I was her age, remember? Me and my marefriend went to my family home for a few days." Vinyl states to Octavia.
"I remember, you were very unwilling to do a lot of things during that time... Then after you came back it was like somepony lit the fire within you again. What did happen?." Octavia replies.
Vinyl smiles and looks back out into the chamber. "I beat the shit outta myself."
Amore is flung across the floor again, this time being brought next to her longsword.
"Things used to be so simple didn't they? No wings, no blood sucking, none of this Order of Light bullshit. Just picking fights across Equestria because you could. Finding the biggest and the strongest to take down. You didn't care much for safety either... You used to live a carefree life before you went to Armonia." Vampire Amore chuckles.
Amore closes her eyes and can see flashes of all the previous fights she had growing up. Moving from school to school, college to college bringing the hurt to anyone who claimed they were the strongest. She pictures the fun time she had at the place she went to before Armonia and flashes of her old sparring partner come to mind. Then she flicks herself onto the memories to do with Armonia. The intense fight with Octavia, the fun fight with Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange, their band and the festival. Amore can see flashes of the student council and the bar.
"I should come up with a new name for myself... Hmm what about Midnight? Na too cliché... Oh, I know what about Amy? No, I don't feel in the mood to be pink... What about Serenity? It'll do for now... How about we clean up..?" Serenity looks confused at Amore who is laughing.
"I'm such a fucking idiot... Why didn't I see it before? Nothing has changed at all..." Amore slowly gets up and grabs her longsword. "I'm no different than I was when coming to Armonia. The wings and fangs? They were always there, I just had to awaken to my vampire powers and even that isn't new as it was always in me. As for the fight against Shintaku... How is she any different from the punks I used to beat down in school? For that matter how are the Order of Light any different? They aren't... That is what I've been so blind about. They are just a bunch of ponies looking to be the strongest against supernatural ponies... So what if Shintaku was a strong ass bitch, I got stronger and put her down... So what if the Order of Light has stronger ponies in it, I'll toughen up and beat them down too... My carefree life was no different at Armonia. I woke up and barely paid attention in class. I got into fights and went to sleep next to an amazing marefriend... My life never changed, it only got better... I'm still the same carefree Amore I was way back when." Amore holds up her finger for a second and clicks her tongue.
"What? What is it now?" Serenity asks, looking confused.
"There is one difference when I think about it..." Amore states as a playful grin finds its way across her face.
"What in the name of Celestia could that be-" Serenity is cut off by Amore preforming a two-step kick into her face, which sends her flying across the hall floor.
Amore makes her slightly bigger pitch black vampire wings sprout out her back and she lets her fangs show.
"I must be the sexiest looking mother fucker with wings in this entire castle, well... Octavia can come second, but I'm not sharing first." Amore cracks her neck.
Octavia sighs as she relaxes. Aqua Streak looks confused and turns to Vinyl.
"Can somepony explain how she came out of her 'down period'?" Aqua Streaks asks Vinyl.
"She just realised what had been staring her in the face since she came to this castle... Nothing had truly changed about her nor would it ever. As I said before, I beat the shit outta myself to get out of mine." Vinyl smiles as she flips a record onto the nearby DJ deck connected to the speaker system.
Serenity picks herself up as Amore flips her longsword around her hand and they both charge at each other to clash in the middle. Their blades clash with energetic fever and as Amore's signature grin can be seen again back where it belongs on her lips. Serenity attempts to preform a sweep kick, which is dodged by Amore who jumps over it and counters with a precise round house kick that is barely ducked under. Amore closes the gap again and unleashes a flurry of quick slashes and swipes which are matched by her scantily clad vampire version. Vinyl sits on the edge of her seat watching them both intently, excited for the outcome. Serenity preforms a strong upper cut which is blocked by Amore and sends her back a few meters.
"This sword is a little... Lacking in what I'm used to. Oh, I have the perfect idea..." Amore flips her longsword in her hand a few times.
"You're good... But we both know that if you defeat me then you can never be the same again. You will have to consume blood to survive and be in constant fear of the outside world, including the sun!" Serenity states to Amore.
Amore holds out her left hand and plunges her sword into it till half the blade is through. Vinyl stands up and goes to the window, crossing her arms and smiling as wide as ever.
"I figured it out after the battle with Shintaku when it reformed to the awakening of my true vampiric powers... That this full metal blood longsword was actually made from my own blood. Using this to my advantage... Would it not be possible to reforge this blade a second time... To better suit my new form and abilities." Amore explains as it's noticed no blood is dripping to the floor, but it is sliding down the blade to then sink into the blade.
After several seconds, Amore pulls her sword out of her hand and flicks it out to her right side while the wound on her hand heals. The longsword begins to bubble and slowly reform as Serenity charges towards Amore. Throwing her longsword into the air, Amore meets serenity mid charge and unleashes a flurry of lightning fast punches which the mare finds she is too slow to block. After the twelfth punch Amore throws in an upper cut which makes Serenity stumble backwards several steps. Amore takes a few steps backwards before holding up her hand and grabbing her newly reformed sword which falls down and into her grip.
Octavia stands up and goes to the window beside Vinyl. "What is that weapon?"
"That is the last form her longsword should be able to take. It's finally time for her to choose her path..." Vinyl grips her own arm as she can feel her blood pump around her body faster with the adrenaline from watching the fight.
The newly forged sword in Amore's hand appears to be one half of a giant pair of scissors. The sword keeps its full blood red colour only this time it's highly decorated with vampiric engravings all over the top of the handle and quarter way up the blade. Amore flips the sword around her hand and around her body with great ease and grace till she brings it back to her starting position and smiles widely.
"Hmm this is much more like it... Let's finish this Serenity!" Amore yells as she and Serenity clash once more.
Serenity is clearly struggling as Amore can be seen to be pulling off flurries and slashes much quicker than before. Using her new scissor blade she pushes Serenity back and preforms a two step kick making her full metal blood longsword fly out of her hand and into the air. Amore then begins a chain of thousands of slashes on Serenity which cannot be blocked. She then finishes with a diagonal upper slash causing Serenity to fall back onto the floor grunting in pain.
"It's over..." Amore states softly.
Serenity's full metal blood longsword suddenly comes down and pierces straight through her chest and into the ground below. Amore squats down beside serenity as she coughs up some blood.
"I knew this would be the outcome, you know... You had too much to live for and had too strong of a will. You just needed a kick up the ass to show you what was important." Serenity chuckles.
"I guess I forgot the principles for which I lived my life... I forgot what was important and that no matter what I'd never change who I was." Amore places her hand on Serenity's shoulder.
"Looks like my time is done... This is where I die, good luck." Serenity states as she closes her eyes and she begins to disintegrate into a dark blood red vampiric mist.
"Na, you don't die here. We still have an entire story to go through together. We aren't so easy to kill after all." Amore states which makes Serenity smile before she is made entirely into mist.
The mist is absorbed into Amore, but she grabs the pitch black entity from before and slams it against her scissor blade making it be absorbed into it. The fusion seems to go well as nothing changes or explodes, making Amore smile. She then stands up and walks over to her silver case. Putting away her new scissor blade she flexes her left hand a few times before swinging her silver case onto her back and heads for the exit to the ritual hall.
Upon leaving the ritual hall door Amore is met by a tight hug given to her by Octavia.
"You crazy mare, you could have been killed in that hall... I'm glad you finally know who you want to be." Octavia kisses Amore's lips deeply.
They stand there together embraced in a deep kiss before Amore pulls them apart to talk.
"I never wanted to be anypony else than me, I just forgot what being me meant and thought that I'd be changed so easily. I'm sorry for worrying you." Amore states before smiling.
"Just promise me you'll never go through this 'ritual' again..." Octavia lets go of Amore and steps aside for Vinyl who is with Scarlet Orange and Aqua Streak.
"That was amazing! I've seen you fight a lot of times, but this is the most recent fight I've been able to actually watch... You have improved so much from when you first fought. I'm beyond proud of you and am confident to entrust the name 'Von Scratch' to you." Vinyl hugs Amore.
"I'm happy you're proud of me. We spent too long apart and... I really want to make up for that. I know and understand why you had to be so distant. I forgive you and that's all that matters." Amore hugs Vinyl back as all of them leave the corridor and head back towards the main gathering hall.
Upon reaching the hall the group are welcomed by John opening the door and bowing respectfully.
"Seeing you here let's me know you survived your ritual, Lady Von Scratch. I hope to be able to serve you for several years." John states.
"John, you can call me Amore. I'm not used to being so formal, so it weirds me out a bit." Amore chuckles.
"Hmm... Might you humour me and I be allowed to call you Lady Amore?" John asks.
"I think that'll be fine. I look forward to seeing you a lot, John." Amore smiles patting John's shoulder.
They progress further into the hall and Amore can see there is a stage now set up with the various family members scattered around the room.
"You know the whole family heard about your band and, I especially, were wondering if you wanted to play for us." Vinyl asks Amore as they walk through the congratulating family members.
"Hmm... I could, but the song I have in mind requires an instrument none of my band know how to play." Amore admits.
"Well a mare found her way here and claims to be a friend of yours, maybe she knows." Vinyl informs Amore as they reach the stage.
Amore can see Veronica sitting on the stage steps looking annoyed and stands up upon seeing Amore.
"Where have you been? Nobody has seen you for the past two days since after the festival, then I learn you take a trip to your family home... It's bad to not know where your rival is at all times." Veronica crosses her arms and huffs.
"V, do you know how to play a piano?" Amore asks, ignoring Veronica's comment.
"What? Why do-"
"Do you?"
"I... Yes, I may have taken a few- Hey!" Veronica protests as Amore grabs her arm and drags her somewhere.
Amore stands on the stage in front of the gathered family members and takes a deep breath before tapping on the microphone stand to get their attention.
"Hello, for those of you who don't know... My name is Amore Sànge Von Scratch and I'm the daughter of Vinyl Von Scratch. I'd like to thank you all for requesting that me and my band preform for you, truth be told we haven't practised the song I have in mind. We are also welcomed by a new member who will be playing the piano for us." Amore points out Veronica who is on a piano behind her.
Octavia stands at the front of the stage smiling while Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange are on the stage. Scarlet is on her normal drums while Aqua is holding a slightly different instrument along with Derpy, who arrived with Veronica.
"The reason I picked this song is because it's dedicated to the mare who is my soul reason for getting up in the morning and not 'cause she kicks me out of bed." The crowd give a small chuckle. "It's because she is the reason I started to want more out of life and enabled me to stop for a moment to see the beauty around me and more importantly, her beauty. This is to let her know exactly how much she means to me." Amore explains before starting the song . She provides the lyrics while Veronica is on the piano and her other band mates provide the appropriate instruments.
You and I,
So stop time right here in the moonlight,
Without you, I feel broke.
With you I fall. (Octavia smiles and gets up onto the stage and stands in front of Amore grabbing hold of her hands.)
So stop time right here in the moonlight,
Without you, I feel broke.
You're the perfect melody,
Without you, I feel broke.
Without you, I feel broke.
Amore and Octavia finish their song holding hands with their foreheads touching. Oblivious to the world around them and especially the applauding audience which is consisted of Von Scratch family members formulated into a sea of funky hair styles in various odd colour combinations. Vinyl is also applauding while leaning against the fireplace.
"Hmm mother dearest, when do you plan on telling her?" A playful voice asks from the direction of the nearby sofa.
Sighing deeply Vinyl glances towards the sofa where she can see an azure blue mare with an electric blue mane and tail that has black streaks, her eyes are an emerald green.
"Soon... She needs some time to settle into her new form like you did, but I promise soon she'll know. With luck she wont punch me again." Vinyl reassures the mare.
"Yay, I might finally have a sister to spar with. She can sing really well." The mare comments.
The mare wears an azure blue leather jacket with a black T-shirt and a pair of denim shorts that stop halfway down the top of her thigh.
"Maybe you should introduce yourself if you're so eager to meet her..." Vinyl sighs.
"Maybe I will... We shall see what I end up doing, mother dear~" The mare smirks before jumping off the sofa and sauntering away from Vinyl who sighs deeply before looking back at Amore and Octavia.
Author's Note
It's back for its turn on my fic roulette. After this month I'll be picking the fic I feel like writing and just running with it till it finishes. If you have a comment about or feel you'd like to see this fic run with, please leave it in a comment. Things can only get more interesting as Octavia gets her own chapter next. Look forward to next time.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
The Dark Symphony: Von Melody
Amore stirs in her sleep and bury's her head against her luxury soft pillow. Octavia chuckles slightly as she strokes and plays with Amore's hair before the mare in question weakly opens her eyes.
"Good morning, Amore." Octavia greets her with a slight kiss.
"You always wake up so early... What happened last night?" Amore shifts against Octavia to get more comfortable and blushes when she realizes they are both naked and their legs are entwined together.
"If the roughly placed clothes on your floor and the fact we might be a tad sticky is any indication..?" Octavia waits for Amore to finish her deduction.
"We had sex... Oh, wait... It's coming back now... My god you were amazing." Amore closes her eyes and bury's her head back in Octavia's breasts.
"Seriously Amore, I didn't think we played that roughly... Did we? I guess we might have been a bit passionate. I do remember wanting to reward you for our tender, loving duet last night. Needless to say your vocals going further into the evening were quite arousing." Octavia teases Amore as she strokes up and down her spine.
"Hmm... After all the close attempts we had of having sex it did feel unbelievable to finally make it all the way." Amore states, wrapping her arms around Octavia.
"Well, either one of us was always too tired to engage in sex. Though to be honest, after your song last night, I didn't think it appropriate to wait any longer. I'm simply happy it was better than I imagined it would be." Octavia kisses Amore softly before a knock at the door interrupts them.
"Pardon my interruption of your comfortable embrace, Lady Amore, but a message arrived from the Von Melody household." John informs the pair through the door.
"What does my uncle want this time..?" Octavia asks, now using an annoyed tone.
"It would appear he wishes your return to the estate, Lady Von Melody. He says he has urgent business to discuss with you." John continues the message.
"Thank you John." Amore says before groaning into Octavia's chest.
Octavia shuffles out of Amore's grasp to leave her groaning on the bed while she stretches.
"I guess it can't be helped... No doubt my uncle will have heard about my recent exploits and have some lecture prepared... I've hardly checked in since I became head of the family." Octavia walks over to two double doors and opens them. "I could explain more, if you joined me for a morning shower."
Amore rolls out of bed and hits the floor. "Ow... I'm coming..."
The pair enter Amore's larger than normal bathroom which has a big bath tub, shower and toilet with a sink.
"It's about what I'd expect from the Von Scratch family." Octavia comments as she enters the shower joined by Amore.
The water is turned on and Amore moans when the hot water hits her skin and begins warming her up.
"Oh hot showers in the morning are so nice..." Amore cuddles Octavia as she begins to wash them both.
"Now, to explain about my uncle... Since the incident with my parents nineteen years ago, he has kept a close eye on me. However, since I took the mantle of head he hasn't been able to keep a constant eye on me. Oh, I should also mention I'm having my own gathering at the Von Melody estate. It'd please me greatly to have my marefriend accompany me there." Octavia explains as she slides their flannel down to stroke Amore's groin.
"Hmm~ I'd love to. Will you be going to your estate alone or?" Amore asks biting her lip, trying not to moan.
"I'll go alone first and have my butler pick you up in the afternoon. I know you want to come with me, but it's better this way." Octavia explains.
"Okay... Hey, you never speak about your past much..." Amore comments nudging Octavia's neck gently.
"True, I don't... Maybe soon I will be able to let you know... It's just complicated. Also you can have your breakfast if you want now, I look forward to mine." Octavia smiles as she holds Amore close.
Amore licks Octavia's neck before sinking her fangs into her and gently sucks her blood. The two stand in a warm embrace under the water in their normal morning ritual.
Octavia sighs deeply as she stares out the window of her limo at the passing trees on the path.
"You seem more down than normal, Lady Von Melody." The driver points out, glancing in the wind mirror of the limo.
"Perceptive as always, Alfred. You should know by now that my visits to the estate are always awful and dull due to my uncle." Octavia explains as she pours herself a glass of wine from the cooler in the back of the limo.
"Pardon my intrusiveness, but you could of invited Lady Von Scratch to join your visit." Alfred comments.
"You will be picking her up in the afternoon to bring her to the estate. I simply didn't want her to witness the initial clash between me and my uncle and for them two to avoid each other.
"Yes, I seem to recall your uncles rant when he learned of your union to a Von Scratch. To say he was displeased would be a grave understatement. Please use caution, my lady... I am just your simple butler, but I can care for my lady." Alfred states, as they turn a corner and begin to approach a large walled estate with a huge castle as its definitive feature.
"No matter how many family members we invite to parties or how often I come back here... It's still just as empty looking as ever." Octavia sighs deeply as she downs her wine.
They drive through some gates before reaching the long path leading up to the castle. Upon reaching the driveway Octavia waits till Alfred opens the door for her before she steps out and fixes her hair. Taking a deep breath, she thanks Alfred before walking up the stairs to the castle doors which are opened by two more butlers. Entering the castle Octavia can already see the massive differences between the two families. The Von Scratch castle was so vibrant and lively, while the Von Melody castle is filled with a dark overtone that is made worse by dark purples and blacks decorating the halls. As Octavia progresses further into the castle she can see her own family portraits and musical awards mostly focusing in the orchestral and classical arts. After she finds the main hall she walks up the stairs to the right and follows the corridors till she comes to a pair of double doors.
"Well... This should be fun..." Octavia takes a deep breath.
Entering the study, Octavia can see a well furnished mahogany desk with an ink well and quill along with several papers upon it. Behind the desk were several bookshelves carrying many novels and books of various natures. To her right could be seen an archway sofa area complimented by a coffee table and fireplace. Looking to her right she can finally see the sight she dreaded standing in front of a large window. Standing there before the window is an imposing equine figure who has a dull grey coat, long dark grey mane and tail with silver streaks while their eyes are a greyish mulberry.
"You have finally arrived, Oct-" The stallion begins, but is cut off by Octavia.
"Uncle, I've told you before... It's 'Lady Von Melody' like every other member of our family calls me." Octavia protests as she walks over to her desk and sits down.
"Lady Harmonica doesn't... Don't you think this one sided punishment has gone on long enough? I know how I handled the situation all those years ago was correct given our financial and political status." The stallion exclaims.
"Maybe someday, but that is not today. I'll have you know I've a guest coming this evening to our party. Please be sure not to embarrass me or yourself." Octavia explains before leaning back in her chair.
"Might I ask who this guest is?" The stallion asks, raising an eyebrow.
"Her name is Amore Sânge Von Scratch, next head of the Von Scratch family and my marefriend." Octavia informs her uncle.
"You must be joking with me? The very mare who we have only had reports about recently? The same Amore Sânge Von Scratch who assaulted Armonia along with various other education establishments?" The stallion asks, looking shocked.
"I believe that's her, yes." Octavia replies, unflinching.
"Are you out of your mind, Octavia?! She is an unsocial, uneducated menace! How could you let yourself fall so low as to enter into a union with her of all mares in Equestria... You picked the daughter of the family who is our arch enemy!" The stallion exclaims harshly.
"Dear uncle, as much as I love you... Would you kindly leave my study so I might fill out some of this paper work I've missed?" Octavia asks, avoiding her uncles eyes as she begins to work.
In a huff the stallion leaves the study looking very annoyed. Octavia sits back in her chair and sighs deeply before looking at the window.
Amore sighs slightly as she carefully inspects her new scissor blade while the silver case lays on the limo seat beside her. Amore's mane and tail appear much more brushed and refined then normal and she wears a rather elegant short red dress that comes with black gloves.
"It's not bad... Of course it's not exactly a longsword, but it does have good weight, excellent sharpness. Maybe the change wont be so terrible... I'll just use it like I did the longsword." Amore slides it back inside its case before leaning back in her seat and looking out the window.
"Pardon my intrusion into the inspection of your blade, but blood metal is a fairly rare metal to come across. It's the only metal in living history that reacts to and becomes awake on the contact of blood. From what I can tell from your words, it used to be a longsword. However, due to your ritual and figuring out how to evolve the blade it morphed into a form better suited to fulfil your true potential. The act of feeding the sword your own fresh blood, according to ancient vampire texts is the only way to let the sword know it's master has truly accepted what they wield in their hands. To normal blacksmiths, the act of working with blood metal is forbidden and results in exile, death or severe punishment by the blacksmithing guild based in Griffonstone." Alfred informs Amore.
"Wow... You seem to know a lot about stuff, I see why Octavia sent you to pick me up. You must be like her most valued butler." Amore states, smiling slightly.
"I'm her personal butler and have been such since she was a foal... I suppose, you could say in the absence of her parents and the negligence of her uncle... I might be the closest thing she has to a parental figure. Of course, I know my place and would never say such a thing out loud in front of her uncle." Alfred smiles as they approach the estate gates.
"I feel you, Al. I didn't hear a thing. I do have to ask... how big of an absolute douche bag does her uncle need to be in order for her to hate him so much?" Amore asks, looking over at the castle with her mouth wide open.
"Well..." Alfred begins as he looks into the wind mirror to see Amore's reaction to the estate.
"Holy..." Amore states as she marvels at the interior of the massive castle.
"It's quite impressive isn't it? Octavia waits for you in her study." Alfred informs Amore who follows him, still in awe about the decorations and portraits.
As they make their way through the castle they eventually come to the main hall and it's large staircase which splits off in two directions.
"So this is the infamous Amore Sànge Von Scratch who has been terrorising various educational establishments throughout Equestria..." The stallion from before states, walking down the stairs from the left side.
"It's nice to see that my reputation precedes me. It pleases me you have actually heard about me." Amore states, with a big smile.
"My name is Richard Von Melody. I am Octavia's uncle and brother of the former head of the Von Melody family, Alexander Von Harmonica Melody." Richard makes his big introduction, but looks confused at Amore's giggling.
"You fancy people and your massive introductions... Alfred, where do I find Octavia's study?" Amore asks Alfred, ignoring Richard.
"She is up the stairs to the right and along the corridor all the way at the end." Alfred directs Amore.
Amore thanks Alfred and walks up the stairs past Richard heading up the left side staircase and towards Octavia's study.
"Hey, don't ignore-" Richard is cut off by Alfred.
"Sir, I believe it's time for your afternoon tea." Alfred smiles before Richard grumbles something and walks off.
Amore walks all the way to the end of the corridor and opens the big double doors before shutting them behind her and turns around to see Octavia sitting on her desk.
"I was wondering when you would finally find your way to my study." Octavia smiles warmly at Amore.
Amore practically runs up to Octavia and wraps her arms around her planting her lips softly on hers. The pair softly embrace before Octavia parts them so they can speak.
"I take it you met my uncle-" Octavia begins, but is cut off.
"He is perhaps the biggest asshole I've ever met and, believe me, in my time conquering schools, I have met a lot of assholes..." Amore sighs deeply and leans into Octavia.
"Least you look quite elegant compared to your normal rough self. The red is especially nice and the gloves are a decent touch... Rarity?" Octavia asks, raising an eyebrow.
"Rarity... She found out from Aqua I was going to a party at your estate and she insisted on making me a custom dress. I like it, but I don't normally wear dresses..." Amore comments.
"Mhmm makes sense for Rarity and Amore, sweetie, you never wear dresses... Well, except that one sweet time in the bar where you had the place booked for us and we danced. It was very romantic." Octavia kisses Amore's cheek softly.
Octavia sits in her large armchair in front of the now lit fireplace in her study with Amore sat comfortably in her lap. Outside it can be seen to be night and from the noise downstairs, the party has begun.
"I take it from earlier you badly needed to let off some steam?" Amore asks, nuzzling Octavia's chest.
"Just a little..." Octavia strokes Amore's mane softly.
"'Just a little'? I wouldn't call your enthusiastic removal of my dress 'just a little'. Not that I minded, but you seem more tense being back here." Amore states, looking up at Octavia.
"Amore... There is something I need to tell you. I've wanted to tell you for a while now... It's to do with my parents." Octavia begins.
"Oh... I'll listen if you want to tell me about them." Amore looks up at Octavia gently.
"I didn't lie when I said I killed my parents... However, it wasn't exactly me who did it. I used to experience a split in my personality which persisted up until the death of my parents. Afterwards I made a stern choice to become the mare I am today... I decided to cast out my other self and become stronger than any member of my household. Using the Von Melody family ritual I crafted myself an iron will which would never be broken." Octavia explains.
"Did this happen after you went to Armonia with Vinyl?" Amore asks.
"No. Believe it or not, I actually met Vinyl after. The incident with my parents happened the year before, but it had already spread across the rest of the vampire circles that a new heir had risen to power within the Von Melody family. The year I went to Armonia was the year Vinyl became head of the Von Scratch family. Needless to say, me and Vinyl clashed on the first day during the student council selection festival." Octavia runs her fingers through Amore's mane.
"'Student council selection festival'? That sounds like fun." Amore chuckles.
"I think you'd enjoy it. Although we don't hold it anymore since the first student council was selected. It was essentially a massive academy wide battle royal to pick out the strongest in select fields. At the time, I rose to the president throne before lunch even started. After lunch, Vinyl showed up and claimed the vice president slot alongside Flutterbat and their red haired friend." Octavia stares into the fireplace as she tells her story.
"'Red haired friend'? Who was she?" Amore asks, looking confused.
"I can't quite remember... She was strong, gentle, dependable... I could say you remind me of her." Octavia smiles.
"Sounds like you had feelings for her..." Amore muses.
"Maybe I did... I'm unsure of what I remember of her now. Either way, I hope that lets you more into my history and the life I had before." Octavia finishes her history lesson.
"I'm sorry to hear about your parents... I know you said you'd do it again, but I'm still sorry you had to go through that. How did your uncle handle the situation?" Amore nuzzles Octavia gently.
"Poorly... After he and Alfred found me in this study, my dead parents over by the window... Richard opted to keep this as hush as possible. I was selected as the next heir of the family rather then himself. It was to avoid them believing that he had killed them to take their place. Covering his own ass as normal it would seem... He then paid off a shit load of families and cleaners to have the affair shrouded in mystery. I hate him for how he handled it... I just simply come out and say it to anypony who asks. I killed my parents, it's plain and simple." Octavia holds Amore closer.
"It'll get better... I mean you have me now, right? It's not like you can't be happy just because your other self was an utter bitch and your uncle is an absolute fucking asshole. You also have everypony on the student council who look up to you, plus the amount of students who respect you, want to be you and be with you." Amore closes her eyes.
"Maybe if I knew you back when the event happened I could have handled it better... I guess nothing can change the past, but I can at least live for my future." Octavia cuddles Amore before there is a knock at the door.
"Lady Von Melody, your guests await your appearance at the party." Alfred informs Octavia.
"Thank you Alfred. I guess we should go shock my household at our union." Octavia and Amore get up and stretch.
"Yeah... Shock..." Amore looks very nervous.
"You alright?" Octavia asks, placing her hand on Amore's shoulder.
"Yeah, yeah... I'm fine, just feeling a little light headed." Amore smiles weakly.
"I'll be with you the whole way so don't worry. Shall we?" Octavia asks, holding out her hand for Amore.
Amore takes her hand and they begin heading to the gathering hall.
Richard stands with a group of finely dressed Von Melody family members as they drink what looks like red wine.
"Will Lady Von Melody be attending this party?" A male member asks.
"Hasn't she missed quite a few parties recently?" A female member points out.
Richard clears his throat. "I believe she will be down shortly, she is just finishing up some paperwork in her study-"
Richard stops to look where the others are at the top of the staircase and his eyes widen in shock. At the top of the staircase Octavia stands beside Amore as they are being introduced by Alfred.
"Presenting Lady Von Melody and Lady Von Scratch." Alfred proudly states.
The two smile as they walk down the stairs holding hands.
"T-that's Amore Sânge Von Scratch..." A second male member whispers.
"You know her?" A second female member asks.
"She decimated the entire fight club at Manehatten University half a year ago..." The second male replies.
The pair walk over to Richard making him close his mouth before Octavia speaks.
"Hello everyone. It's a pleasure to see you all again after so long spent away. The reason I've not been able to attend many parties as of late is because I had important business to take care of at Armonia academy, that and I had this mare here to keep me busy while she settled in." Octavia comments.
"I actually recognise quite a few faces in here, let's see... Manehatten University Fight Club... Canterlot High School Swordsmanship Club... Crystal Prep High School Fight Club... Wow, you guys get around everywhere... Did I miss anypony?" Amore asks, making a few ponies frown.
"Las Pegasus Sports Academy Athletic Club!" A frustrated female member shouts.
"Vanhoover high School Student Council!" A frustrated male replies.
"Wow, your family gets everywhere, don't they..?" Amore shrugs and smiles.
"Well... I didn't realise a member of the Von Scratch family had been beating our family members quite so badly across Equestria. Another one of your secrets uncle?" Octavia folds her arms and looks at Richard who adjusts his collar.
"I only wished to defend our reputation, Lady Von Melody." Richard weakly defends.
Amore stares at Richard with a mixed frustrated and annoyed look making him frown.
"W-what the devil is it child? You give me such a look yet fail to explain why..." Richard snaps at Amore.
"Octavia told me everything... About what you did." Amore bluntly states, making Octavia sigh before stepping back slightly.
"I see... Another item to add to the list of mistakes she has made along with making a union with you." Richard comments.
The whole room was filled with gasps and whispers about the two and what Richard meant by 'union'.
"Yes, it's true. Amore and I are indeed together as lovers... I doubt my personal taste, let alone my choice in gender, is a concern for any of you in here." Octavia remarks, making some members recoil and flinch.
"I think I shall retire for the rest of the evening. Octavia, Amore..." Richard states, before leaving up the stairs to the left.
Octavia sighs deeply as the rest of the room stares. "I don't recall this being a show... It's a party is it not?"
With that the family members and extra guests went back to their individual conversations and little groups. Some of the previously outspoken vampires did come up to Amore and engage in, what Octavia could make out as a fun discussion about their encounters at the various educational facilities they fought at before. Once the conversation was finished Amore came back to Octavia and kissed her cheek gently.
"You okay? Your uncle was an utter asshole back there..." Amore states, stroking Octavia's arm.
"Well, Richard has always been one for tradition as well as harbouring a distinct distaste for the Von Scratch Family." Octavia informs before sighing.
"Tradition? What does that have to do with us?" Amore asks, looking confused.
"Lesbians, Amore... Because we are mare and mare, not mare and stallion." Octavia states with a blank expression.
"Oh... Hey! What a cu-" Amore begins, but Octavia stops her.
"Amore, sweetie... We're in public, show some restraint with your words... Please?" Octavia pleads.
"Sorry..." Amore awkwardly smiles.
"You're lucky I love you for you." Octavia smiles before kissing Amore gently.
"Hmm so am I. Hey, where is your musical ensemble hiding?" Amore asks.
"Over there in that corner of the room behind the curtain, why?" Octavia asks, folding her arms.
Amore smiles before walking over to the curtain and peeking in through the side. It can clearly be seen she is having a conversation with the band, but nothing can be heard over the current playing music. The music smoothly stops before being subtly changed to something else and Amore draws the curtain to actually show the five member stallion band in suits accompanied by their mare singer who seems happy she actually gets to sing something. Amore walks back over to Octavia before dragging her into the centre of the hall to begin dancing slowly.
"Amore, you always seem to surprise me. This is actually quite a romantic statement to the rest of the family." Octavia smiles, holding Amore close.
"Heh, I try. I was hoping the band knew the song I was after and that would work in this situation." Amore smiles back as they stare into each other's eyes.
The rest of the family stare at them both, unsure of how to react to this change in tempo. However, after several exchanged looks and deep breathes, a large amount of pairs decide to follow in their family head's example and join them in dancing to the same soft music that has happily filled the hall.
"I've yet to decide if our union is good or bad for our houses." Octavia muses as they dance closer.
"Isn't that up to us?" Amore softly states lifting Octavia's head.
"Hmm I suppose you're right. It's up to us who we love and if we want to be together. Amore... I love you with everything I am and ever will be. Since that incident with Shintaku, I've vowed to never keep anything secret from you. Now you know about what happened to my parents, most of my past and everything. I've let you in like no pony ever before. To be honest, I couldn't be happier." Octavia states, leaning her head on Amore's shoulder.
"I'm very glad you feel that way and hope I continue to live up to your expectations, Tavi. I vow to do the same and never keep secrets from you, well... Unless it's a surprise, then I hope we are still able to." Amore smiles.
"Haha, yes. If it's a surprise then I suppose keeping secrets is a necessary step. Just make sure the surprise is worth it. I will always love you, Amy." Octavia whispers into Amore's ear.
"Hmm only you call me that. I will always love you too, Tavi." Amore whispers back.
The two share a deep passionate soft kiss before swaying gently to the rest of the music.
Author's Note
That was Octavia's history chapter which I hope you all enjoyed and are looking forward to the next chapter already. Coming up next is a brand new arc that many of you might actually recognise. It'll be my own little version and hopefully shed some light on Amore's past at her previous educational placement before Armonia. Stay tuned for more.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Octavia crosses her legs and relaxes in her student council president chair at the head of the table while the other members, excluding Amore, were present.
"I take it preparations for this years games are going ahead as planned?" Octavia asks, looking at Amethyst Star.
Amethyst Star looks through some papers in a pile in front of her before looking at Octavia.
"From my reports, yes. Everything in our budget complies with finances projections..." Amethyst Star smiles.
Rivet folds his arms and sighs. "The construction work for the game's arenas is progressing as you would expect and should be ready for tomorrow's first round."
"Double Diamond, how is the training going for the sports clubs?" Octavia asks.
"They should be ready to participate in many of the games athletic based events." Double Diamond reports.
"That is good, I hope this year we can actually gain some significant points in the sports area." Octavia looks at Sugar Belle.
"The cooking clubs are all ready and prepared with the finest recipes we could muster! I promise they will not one up us this year!" Sugar Belle states with great enthusiasm.
"The selection process for those partaking in the battle royal stages of the games is almost complete, however, our head team remains empty as nobody wants to spear head the charge against them again." Night Glider states, sighing deeply.
"I already have something in mind for our lead team. We just have to cover our bases..? Does anyone know where Amore is? She said this morning she had to take care of something, but would be on time for the meeting..." Octavia states, looking at Amore's empty chair.
"I'm fairly sure she is either in a fight or... in a bigger fight." Night Glider folds her arms.
"I shall have to inform her later about my proposal." Octavia sighs deeply.
Amore stands just in front of the stage in the main gathering hall with Aqua Streak, Scarlet Orange and Derpy set up on their band gear behind her. In front of Amore is a gang of five academy male students. All of them wear the supernatural school uniform.
"You guys have a lot of nerve interrupting practice like this... So, what do you want?" Amore asks, folding her arms.
"Our lord Von Harmonica wishes us to demonstrate his displeasure with the Von Scratch family and your union with Lady Von Melody." The lead colt states.
"He gave us orders to teach you your place in our society." The second colt adds.
"By the looks of it you don't have your blade with you... This'll be easy." The third comments as they spread out to half surround Amore.
Amore grows a wide sly grin on her face as she unfolds her arms and stretches.
"When I decided to skip the student council meeting today for band practice, I didn't quite expect some of Richard's thugs to show up and give me the perfect opportunity to test some new abilities." Amore spins around to face her band. "Aqua, you get lead!"
Aqua smiles as the rest of the band ready their instruments and begin to play the song Amore selected for them to practice.
Amore sprints towards the lead colt grabbing him by the shoulders and bringing him closer to her.
"The best part about all this is, I don't even need my scissor blade to kick your ass." Amore smashes her head into his before swinging him around.
Amore then lets go of the colt making him smash into the second colt who started to charge her. The third colt attempts to punch Amore, but she ducks underneath it and slams her fist into his stomach causing him to recoil. She then preforms a two step kick into his face putting him onto the floor. The first and second get back up and jointly attack Amore who dodges their punches and kicks with relative ease and grace. Grabbing the first colt's arms she twists it around behind his back and kicks the second colt in the chest making him stumble back. Amore grins widely as she flips the first colt over herself and again into the second. The fourth and fifth colts decide to get involved with slightly better techniques, but are ultimately dodged and counter attacked by Amore. The fourth and fifth colt manages to briefly get the leg up on Amore and grab both her arms. The second colt charges Amore hoping to preform a running kick, but is stopped when Amore gets in a harsh two step kick to his face once he is in range. She then flips over the backs of the fourth and fifth colt before slamming them into each other. Once dazed Amore flat out punches both of them in the face knocking them out before the first colt sprints at her again.
"Let's try something different." Amore beams with a wide grin.
She meets the colt mid sprint and her wings spring forth from her back as she grabs his arm and spins around him before taking him to the ground and slamming her leg into his chest causing him great pain. Her band finish the song as she gets up and stretches again.
"Hmm~ that was a wonderful workout. I may not have been a vampire long, but my mother taught me some valuable information before I came back to school. 'Our society follows some very basic, but very effective principles. Power, respect and ability.' Now I don't know about you five, but I'm fairly sure I just demonstrated my competent power. Wouldn't you say?" Amore asks, squatting down beside the lead colt.
"Y-yes, Lady Von Scratch..." The colt states, holding his chest as his buddies all start to come around.
"W-we are sorry to have disturbed you during practice..." The second colt adds.
"Is there a message you wish to pass along to... Lord Von Harmonica?" The lead colt asks, as he and his gang stand up weakly.
"That if he wants to disapprove of me, my family or my union to Octavia, that he come say it to my face..." Amore states, folding her arms.
"O-of course, Lady Von Scratch... M-may we leave?" The lead colt asks.
"This time, you may leave. I'd recommend not trying this again." Amore lets them leave as they limp out of the hall.
"That was cool, is it common for members of other families to send such groups?" Aqua asks, putting away her guitar.
"How am I supposed to know? I've only been an actual part of the Von Scratch family for a week or so. However, if I'm honest I hope so. That was such fun." Amore admits as she sits on the stage.
"Well, 'least you're in great shape for the Supernatural Games." Derpy states with a smile.
Amore frowns and leans backwards to look at her band.
"The what games?" Amore looks confused.
"Are you kidding me?!" Amore asks, looking distressed.
Octavia sips her tea while sitting at her desk in the student council president's office. The room is fairly simple with a large bookcase coating the left side wall as you come in and to the right is a sofa area with a coffee table.
"The Supernatural Games are an event held by all the academies under Princess Luna's protection. That is to say, all the academies that have been made especially to promote supernatural and normal cohabitation. Every year pairs of academies square off against each other in a variety of academic and physical events to determine the best academy. Needless to say we constantly get paired with those... Ponies from Crystal Prep Academy. Not only have they beat us in every year prior to your arrival, but they have a new player this year." Octavia informs Amore who nods and mumbles.
"What do these physical activities entail and why are we in your office? I didn't even know you had one!" Amore states sitting down on a chair in front of the desk.
"I've always had an office, Amore. It's just up until now we have made do with the shower block, rooftop and our room. I figured we should utilise this private space of mine for our lunchtime feeding sessions as it would also allow me to preform some of my presidential duties. As for the Supernatural Game's Physical events... Well, we have the sports based events handled. However, there is a battle royal event in which three teams from either school compete in a series of matches in which any manner of fighting style is permitted. Unfortunately, I as student council president am unable to participate as both student councils are required to moderate the games. Thus, I wish to ask you to form a team for us." Octavia explains as she moves to the sofa by the coffee table.
"Am I not part of the student council?" Amore asks, also moving to the sofa beside Octavia.
"Hmm well, technically you're an extra at the moment since I may or may not have misplaced your student council applicant form." Octavia smiles as she lays Amore down.
"There is an applicant form for that?" Amore asks, as she lets herself lay down and Octavia snuggles on top.
"No, not technically. However, your name does need to be registered and I've yet to do so." Octavia licks Amore's neck.
"You planned for the games in advance, didn't you? It would be highly unlike you if you didn't and I'd be very surprised." Amore states, humming slightly.
"Hmm it might be true that, after meeting you I thought that you would make a perfect team captain. However, I wanted you to settle in first then we started dating and the order came up... Then there was the whole affair with Shintaku and your family ritual... Needless to say a lot got in the way and now we are here." Octavia explains as she sinks her fangs into Amore's neck and begins to drink her blood.
"Hmm~ don't get me wrong I'll gladly head the charge against Crystal Prep Academy. I used to attend there before coming here." Amore moans slightly before cuddling Octavia close.
After several seconds Octavia stops sucking and licks Amore's wound before snuggling against her cutely.
"I hope we can finally win a year... You have no idea how annoying it is to lose year in year out to those..." Octavia struggles to find the right words.
Amore flips the pair so she is on top and licks Octavia's neck.
"Stuck up bunch of uptight bastards?" Amore smiles before sinking her own fangs into Octavia's neck and softly starts to suck her blood.
"That's much more polite then I'd have put it, but yes... You'll need a full team of seven to compete in all the battle royal events. You're included so you just have to recruit six more ponies." Octavia moans lightly, just enough for Amore to hear.
Amore stops sucking and licks Octavia's wound before burying her face against her chest.
"I'll only need to find three." Amore snuggles Octavia close.
"Oh? You already have three in mind?"
Amore smiles and closes her eyes.
"The what games?" Veronica asks, sitting on a desk in the music club room.
"The Supernatural Games, it's a collection of events held between all the academy's that promote supernatural and normal pony cohabitation." Aqua Streak explains as she leans back against her chair.
"More often than not, Armonia is paired against Crystal Prep Academy... We never win." Scarlet Orange admits looking down on her drum set.
"That's why I'm asking you three to be part of my team for the games. Octavia said I'm not a student council member yet and thus far just the music club representative. That is to say our work during the festival was our club, not a part of the student council." Amore adds as she leans back against the teacher's desk.
"I still don't understand why you are asking me, I've hardly been here that long." Veronica states.
"You three are normal ponies and my friends. You are also all formerly part of the order and thus have anti-supernatural training which is bound to come in handy during the games. I have also previously fought each of you, which means I trust you more than most." Amore admits.
"Friend... I guess given our recent events and that I was basically conscripted into your band... I suppose I should support our rivalry by helping crush all other opposition so I can take you out myself." Veronica folds her arms and looks away.
"What she means is... Because you're a friend, she'll help you." Aqua Streak interprets for Veronica, making her sigh.
"Great, we just need to find ourselves three more ponies to make a full team." Amore states, sighing deeply.
"Umm, that's going to have to wait... We have guests." Scarlet Orange draws everyone's attention to the window.
Outside Octavia stands at the front of Armonia with the other student council members and Principal Flutterbat. Looking and leaning out of the many windows above them are a plethora of students.
"Where is Amore?" Flutterbat asks, leaning towards Octavia.
"Hopefully putting together our winning team." Octavia replies.
"I just hope she doesn't show up during this part..." Flutterbat sighs when she sees the academy gates open.
Shortly after opening a crew of five Crystal Prep school buses drive into the academy and park in the designated places to the right of the entrance. Students wearing the accompanying uniforms begin to leave the bus and gather in front of them before being headed by a Pegasus mare just a little taller than Principal Flutterbat. Her mane and tail are silky looking with a golden shine to them that has black streaks within. The mare's coat is a dark purple colour with her eyes matching her mane and tail. She wears an outfit similar to Principal Flutterbat, but is in the Crystal Prep Academy colours and design. The mare in question leads her students over to Principal Flutterbat whom she shakes hands with.
"It feels like forever since we saw each other, Flutterbat." The mare states with a grin.
"Well, I've been quite busy around here as I'm sure you have heard... Principal Nike." Flutterbat puts on a smile and shakes her hand.
"I trust your student council didn't get lost coming over here?" Octavia asks.
"As if the student council of Crystal Prep would get lost, you have such little faith Octavia." A light grey Unicorn mare steps out from behind Principal Nike followed by two stallions, two mares and a griffon all wearing the Crystal Prep student council uniform like the Unicorn mare.
The Unicorn mare has a light grey coat with a light pink mane and tail that has heliotrope white streaks. Her eyes are a pale light greyish violet with matching eye shadow.
"Fleur Dis Lee, what a pleasure to see you again." Octavia smiles slightly.
"Come now, Octavia. Neither of us are pleased to see the other. Our families have been at odds for generations, no sense in changing now is there." Fleur sighs.
The griffon has a dark grey coat with light grey feathers , his talons and beak are a brilliant gold along with his eyes. On his head is a distinguished chefs hat and red scarf around his neck.
"Gustav le Grand, our disciples do battle once again!" Sugar Belle dramatically states.
"Indeed, Sugar Belle. We shall see once again who is the finer baker!" Gustav declares in a thick French accent.
"Nice to see these two haven't changed. On the other hand, you, Amethyst, are looking rather sleep deprived." The other Unicorn mare states with a grin.
The mare has a Pale cerulean coat with a Brilliant vermilion mane and tail that has light amber and light tangelo stripes, with a gradient of moderate fuchsia to moderate orchid on the shadowed side of her mane. Her eyes are a brilliant orange with Persian blue eye shadow.
"Sassy Saddles, what an unpleasant surprise... I'll be glad when this is over and I wont have to suffocate in your over powering perfume selection." Amethyst Star fake gags at Sassy.
"Double Diamond..." The Pegasus mare states before glaring at him.
The mare has a light turquoise coat with an amber mane and tail that have gold streaks within. Her eyes are a brilliant gamboge.
"Lightning Dust..." The pair simply glare at each other with no more words exchanged.
"Well, that response never seems to change... Night Glider, it's good to see you again." The well distinguished sounding stallion beside Fleur states.
The light grey stallion has a light azure mane and tail with eyes to match. Unlike all the others he wears a purple bowtie.
"Fancy Pants, always a pleasure to see you." Night Glider states with a smile.
"I take it your team this year is ready as always?" Octavia prompts to Fancy Pants.
"President Fancy Pants, the team want to know when we are going to the lodging dorm?" An Earth Pony mare walks up to Fancy Pants, holding a cylinder case on her back.
The Earth Pony mare has a deep pink coat with a dark blue mane and tail that has black streaks within. Her eyes are a dull silver and she wears the Crystal Prep student council uniform.
"Ah, Lady Octavia, I'd like you to meet-" Fancy Pants is cut off by a loud voice.
"Selene Bloodmoon!" Amore shouts as she exits the academy entrance with her silver case on her back.
"Amore Sânge Von Scratch, it's been a while hasn't it?" Selene states with a smile as the two shake hands firmly.
"Oh, dear Celestia, it's you... What the devil are you doing here?" Fancy Pants asks Amore.
"I came here after leaving Crystal Prep at your express request... Did you repair that broken gate yet?" Amore asks.
"Yes... At great personal cost... Please tell me this mare is not attending here or even taking part in the games?" Fancy Pants asks, sounding distressed.
"Not only is she partaking, but she is also my marefriend. I'd humbly request you be respectful to that fact." Octavia asks, now with a much wider smile.
"I... I... I'll see you later for the arrangements, Lady Octavia... Amore." Fancy Pants leaves taking the student council with him.
"I guess we'll see each other in the Battle Royal... Try not to fall behind, Amy." Selene walks off with the council.
Principal Flutterbat and Principal Nike are nowhere to be seen. Octavia looks at Amore confused.
"How exactly do you know that mare, Selene?" Octavia asks.
"Oh, we used to spar a lot when I went to Crystal Prep." Amore replies.
"Oh... Well, if that is all-" Octavia begins.
"We also used to date..." Amore admits.
"Amore Sânge Von Scratch!" Octavia protests as she looks sharply at Amore, earning just a squee from her marefriend.
Author's Note
First chapter of the Supernatural Games arc is here! This is of course my DMM version of The Friendship Games E.G third film. I hope you will all enjoy this playful arc and all the fun it should bring. The Battle Royal is coming up very soon and Amore still has to find three other team members. It may surprise you who I've chosen.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Brains, Fashion and Magic
Derpy is casually skipping and humming to herself as she walks up the hallway leading to Octavia's student council president office and can see Veronica leaning against the wall beside the door.
"Morning Veronica~" Derpy sings, stopping just before the door.
"Oh... Hey Derpy. I wouldn't interrupt them at the moment. I came here with Amore an hour ago, from what I can tell Octavia slept in her office." Veronica informs Derpy.
"One million dark fang illusion strike!" The pair can hear Octavia yell which makes Veronica grab Derpy and pull her away from the door.
The door is suddenly sliced in various places which propel large chunks of the door down the hall. Veronica slowly lets go of Derpy and they both peak inside the office to see it's a mess, bar the pristine sofa which has a quilt and pillow on it. Amore is standing inches away from Octavia who has her rapier drawn and a seriously pissed off look on her face. Amore's silver case lays beside the sofa within her reach.
"Tavi, please calm down! It isn't that big of a deal!" Amore states, nearly tripping over the coffee table.
"She is your ex and old sparring partner who just so happens to literally bat for the other team, not to mention our greatest fucking rivals, Crystal Prep Academy! Do you see why this is a big fucking deal!" Octavia protests holding her rapier to Amore.
"That was two years before I came here! I didn't realise she would rise to be the Shadowbolt captain so quickly. We used to be very close, but not since I left without a word." Amore states in defence.
Octavia blinks a few times and frowns slightly, lowering her rapier a little.
"What do you mean, 'left without a word'?" Octavia asks.
"I figured if I ran away it never happened, that I never liked her enough to give a shit... Selene, myself and a mare called Midnight Allure used to spar together. Me and Midnight were almost evenly matched, but with her being just that slither better than me... One day after a session I caught her and Selene privately in the gym equipment room and before you ask, no... I got a good enough look to know exactly what they were doing. So, the next morning I packed my things and left." Amore confesses.
"I assumed you never had a marefriend previous to myself, but Selene-" Octavia is cut off by Amore, who clenches her fists and flares her wings out.
"You are the first! I've never had a marefriend previous to you! No pony else!" Amore shakes her head in defiance.
Octavia recoils slightly at Amore's fierce defiance to the truth. She sighs deeply before sheathing her rapier and putting it aside.
"I understand now... That time with Shintaku back in the crypt. She only got around to showing what was in my heart." Octavia walks over to Amore and places her finger on her heart. "However, she never showed the darkness within yours... Looking at you now, I understand why you blew up like you did... What caused you to leave me without so much as a discussion. You were scared I'd leave you or worse, just like Selene did..." Octavia tightly wraps her arms around Amore.
Amore slowly releases her fists and retracts her wings at Octavia's comfort. The pair embrace each other without a single word more till Octavia breaks away and kisses Amore.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner, but... To me, in my mind, that life... That version of me never existed." Amore states with a distressed tone.
"It's okay. I'm the mare you gave both your first times to. One being your virginity and the other being your vampire virginity. Such can also be said about me to you. We can drink our sorrows away later. For now, you have a job to do." Octavia kisses Amore as she blushes.
"Y-yeah... I'll get on that." Amore states leaving Octavia and walking out the remains of the door with her silver case.
"You two... Please follow her and make sure she doesn't get in trouble." Octavia states to the hidden Derpy and Veronica who make a hasty retreat upon their discovery.
"Explain to me again why we are going to the book club of all the places on campus?" Amore asks, sighing deeply.
"Because, the president of the book club is the daughter of Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle. She excels at academic studies as well as sports in general. She is also a Lycan like Rainbow Dash." Derpy informs Amore and Veronica, who is next to Derpy.
"I see... Why did the club room have to be on the far east side of the building..?" Amore asks.
"I believe it would have something to do with the direction of where the moon rises from, which would make sense given her Lycan blood." Veronica comments.
The trio reach a sliding door with a plaque on it saying 'Book Club'. Opening the door Derpy leads them inside where they can see a Pegasus mare that has a cyan coat, teal coloured straight mane and tail with natural pink highlights. Her purple eyes focused on the book she is reading behind the teachers desk, she wears the academy supernatural uniform.
"Derpy, I've said this many a time... But could you please deliver any books I order to my room and not-" The mare turns to face them and stops her sentence upon seeing the trio.
"Hey Tranquil Wind~" Derpy waves slightly.
"Ah, I see now. Tranquil Wind, daughter of the athlete Rainbow Dash and head librarian Twilight Sparkle. I believe your test scores are the most impressive in the whole academy. Not only that, but your Lycan blood and traits passed down from your 'father' Rainbow Dash means she is in peak physical form and likely will be till she dies. Not only that, but she has a rack that could rival the student council president." Veronica states in crude observation.
"Wow, since when did they give such crude reports in the Hooviet Union?" Amore asks, raising her eyebrow at Veronica.
"I'm hardly under that banner anymore... I'm simply giving you my raw observation, captain." Veronica states folding her arms.
"Oh... I see you brought the ex order Hooviet Union mare with you." Tranquil Wind chuckles and places a bookmark on the page she is reading. "And if it isn't the infamous Amore Sànge Von Scratch, next in line to the Von Scratch family head position and daughter of Vinyl Von Scratch. What brings you to my little book club under the moon?"
"I'd be willing to wager you already know." Amore replies.
Tranquil Wind chuckles again and lays back in her chair. "I do. I simply wanted to hear you ask."
"Something tells me you wouldn't give it even if you wanted to... You're the type who doesn't want to bother with other ponies. Even that condescending upper class teasing tone you are using right now is a defence mechanism so you don't projectile vomit your dissatisfaction with the present company. I've met countless mares like you who believe they are above such 'mortal' concepts of friends and such. You're smart, beautiful, excel at academic studies and sports... But that is it..." Amore folds her arms, wearing her serious face.
Veronica leans behind Amore and whispers to Derpy. "Does she even have a serious face?"
Derpy leans behind Amore to answer. "I'm not sure, but she is super cool~"
Tranquil Wind wears a half shocked expression and simply waits for Amore to finish her rant.
"You're not the entitled type, who flaunts their worth around like some cheap whore... You love your parents for who they are, not who everypony sees them as. Your abilities make you exceptional in sports and academic studies, everypony around you has high expectations because of your parents. They give you constant meaningless praise which you don't even care about. If you're not willing to help me, I'm wasting my time." Amore turns to begin leaving.
"Wait..." Tranquil Wind states making Amore stop and turn around. "You don't dance around the truth do you, Amore. One cannot simply have two parents that excel in their own respective fields and not have expectations of them. It's true I never cared for the praise I constantly got, it was meaningless to me. They cannot truly mean to praise a pony for performing how they expect. My parents though... Their praise meant the world to me, they didn't have these ridiculous expectations of me." Tranquil Wind explains.
"I'd never given you much thought if I'm honest. I knew about you from the club roster and that your club is under Amethyst Star's supervision. However, past that I knew nothing." Amore unfolds her arms.
"You know if both of us were not partnered to very esteemed mares... I dare say I'd have to court you. However, your technique is sloppy... Granted you have great moderate footwork and exceptional power, but your overall technique requires refinement and work. Your muscles are having to work so much harder then they need to, you'd have so much more stamina in battle and perhaps other places." Tranquil Wind chuckles as she stands up and walks over to Amore.
"Wow... Other then insulting my fighting style, you seem like the decent sort... So, are you in for sticking it to those snobs at Crystal Prep in the Battle Royal?" Amore asks.
"Oh? You're recruiting for the Battle Royal?" Tranquil Wind asks, looking surprised.
"W-what? I thought you knew already?" Amore stutters a little.
"What? Of course not. I might be skilled in academics and well versed in knowledge, but I prefer sports if I'm honest. I took on my mother's temperament when it comes to things. Oh... That back there? I was so badly fucking with you." Tranquil Wind smiles as she blows a kiss in Amore's face.
Derpy quickly disappears down the hallway giggling. While Amore puffs her cheeks out having just made her massive bitch fest.
"She knew didn't she..." Amore states.
"Oh yes." Veronica replies, smiling.
"I can imagine where your next stop will be and can save you time by accompanying you. You likely already know the mare who we will see next. She is my marefriend and a well established Grand Courtier, it's a fashion thing." Tranquil Wind leads them out of the book club room, but Amore is still puffing her cheeks and groaning.
Tranquil Wind leads the trio into the Armonia Academy Boutique which is a sizeable cylinder room with alcoves filled with dresses and outfits on hangers. Just to the left as you come in past one of the alcoves is a cylinder room big enough for maybe two ponies to allow enough changing space, it has a slimmer section which you slide for the door. There is also two make up tables on opposite sides of the room.
"I remember this place. This is the Boutique right? Rarity made the dress I wore to Octavia's party here." Amore looks around.
"Well, I didn't expect you to have come here already. Then have you met Silver Stitch?" Tranquil Wind asks, looking at Amore.
"No, I've only met Rarity. She made my dress." Amore shakes her head.
"Well... Silver Stitch is the daughter of the fashionista Rarity and the party pony Pinkie Pie. She is an Earth Pony conceived through means of Pixie magic. Not to mention at just our age her combined talent with Rarity earned her the title of Grand Courtier, meaning her collections are a big deal in the fashion world." Tranquil Wind explains.
"Tranquil? Is that you baby?" An earth pony mare with a dull silver coat steps out from one of the workshop doors. Her mane is straight whilst her tail is curled. They share a deep purple color streaked by a hot pink. Her eyes are light blue like her 'father', Pinkie Pie. She wears the academy's supernatural uniform, but has added her own flare of a highly decorated dark blue scarf around her neck.
"Yes, it's me and look who I brought along." Tranquil Wind draws Silver Stitch's attention to Amore.
"Oh sweet Celestia, if you're here that means you can finally give up that persona you have been working on for months since she got here. Did it work at least?" Silver Stitch asks as she straightens out some clothes on the alcove racks.
"Oh yes, it worked like such a charm! You should of seen the look on her face after her rant, she made her cheeks go all puffy and cute!" Tranquil Wind laughs to herself.
Amore puffs out her cheeks in frustration making Silver Stitch giggle.
"So what brings you to our humble Boutique?" Silver Stitch asks, turning to the group.
"I want to ask for you help in the Battle Royal against Crystal Prep Academy." Amore puts her face back to normal.
"One second, I'll ask my mother." Silver Stitch states with a smile.
Silver Stitch disappears into the other workshop and a brief conversation can be heard before a loud encouraging voice booms from the room and Silver Stitch walks back out adjusting her mane with a smile.
"I do believe my 'father' greatly encourages me to kick some tail while mother is happy I'll be getting out of the shop for some fresh air." Silver Stitch informs them.
"You do work too hard." Tranquil Wind comments.
"Okay... That makes a total of two, I just need one more team member..." Amore struggles to think of anypony.
"I actually have a mare in mind, she is the president of the Occult and Supernatural Research Club." Silver Stitch smiles warmly while Tranquil Wind groans a little.
Silver Stitch leads Tranquil Wind and Amore down some eerie looking hallways till they come to an old wooden door with a plaque on it saying 'Occult and Supernatural Research Club'.
"Hey, Tranquil. Why are you so against recruiting this mare?" Amore asks.
"Okay, look... Way back when all our parents were friends, they still are. Me and Silver got together during our first year here, however, the third member of our little trio went a very different route." Tranquil Wind comments.
Silver Stitch opens the door and leads them inside. Around the room they can see bookcases that have several novels on supernatural or occult related creatures and items. Two desks are at the back of the room that have intense complex alchemical equipment set up on them. Two large tables are in the centre of the room with chairs around them and a Unicorn mare sleeping in a chair.
"Looks like we caught her at nap time." Silver Stitch comments before walking them over to her.
Tranquil Wind uses a rubber band to flick a piece of paper right between the mare's eyes waking her up and making her fall back on the chair.
"What the..?" The mare stands up and rubs her eyes.
The Unicorn mare before them has a dodger blue coat, her mane and tail are dark purple with blood red highlights while being in the same style as Starlight Glimmer. After rubbing her eyes it can be seen that her left eye is midnight blue while her right eye is turquoise. She wears a plain black T-shirt, blue jeans, a white lab coat and glasses. The mare yawns before waving her hand in the air. Suddenly a teapot and cup are floated over to the table and poured while she sits back down.
"I was wondering how long it would take for you to visit me, Amore." The mare states sipping her tea.
"There was no magic aura around that pot and cup, how did she..?" Amore looks confused.
"That's because I didn't use my magic to pour it. My ghost marefriend did." She cracks her neck and stretches.
"Moonlit Dusk here is a necromancer. It apparently runs in her blood from Starlight Glimmer's side of the family going all the way back to the pirate era." Tranquil Wind explains.
"That is also alongside her being an extremely powerful Unicorn even at her age. Which is the result of having both Sunset Shimmer and Starlight Glimmer as her parents." Silver Stitch adds.
"That's actually pretty cool. I came here to ask you for help, I need one more pony to join my Battle Royal team. Can you help me?" Amore asks.
Moonlit Dusk leans back in her chair after finishing her tea, she occasionally tilts her head to the right randomly before sighing.
"I'm told this might be a good opportunity for me to stretch my legs... I do want to try out some new spells, so I guess I can help you. It looks like we are going to be working together again, Tranquil." Moonlit Dusk smiles.
"Yeah... Sorry I haven't come down here more often..." Tranquil Wind apologises.
"I am equally at fault for not visiting you two." Moonlit Dusk states.
Amore suddenly answers her phone wearing a pale expression at the voice on the other end.
"I understand. I'll meet you there." Amore hangs up and begins to leave.
"Have some business, captain?" Silver Stitch asks.
"I do... Sorry, we are all meeting at Valentine's later to discuss plans and figure things out for the Battle Royal." Amore informs them before leaving.
Amore walks towards the running track with the silver case strung across her back. In the distance, with her hands in her pockets, is Selene patiently waiting for Amore to get within a reasonable distance to her. Amore stops several feet away from Selene chewing a toothpick in her mouth.
"You wanted to meet..?" Amore asks, looking up at Selene.
"It's been two years and that is all you can say to me?" Selene asks with agitation
Selene flips open the top of the tube on her back and pulls out a gold hilted sharp looking sabre with a pitch black handle. She shifts the tube off her back and throws it aside.
"You make it sound like we have a lot to talk about..." Amore replies spitting out her toothpick.
Amore flips open her case and retrieves her scissor blade before throwing the case aside like Selene.
"You left me without a word, you bitch!" Selene yells as she sprints towards Amore and locks blades with her.
The pair shake equally as they hold each other in place, eyes locked in determination. Amore breaks the lock and pushes Selene away so she can follow up with an uppercut. Selene back flips to avoid the uppercut and preforms a sprint slash counter attack which Amore barely dodges.
"Why did you leave? Was I that bad of a marefriend?!" Selene asks as she presses the attack.
"I saw you fooling around with Midnight in the gym equipment room!" Amore screams which makes Selene falter.
Amore sees her opportunity and sprints towards Selene to preform her signature two step kick on her face that makes Selene roll across the floor. When she stops she helps herself back up using her sabre.
"Y-you saw that then... But you never stayed around long enough to let me explain!" Selene's eyes turn a cloudy deep blue.
Selene sprints towards Amore with increased speed and agility which catches her off guard. The gap in Amore's defence allows Selene to preform her own two step kick landing the first in Amore's stomach and the second being propelled up into her face. The resulting blow forces Amore to fly backwards onto her ass.
"What is there to explain? You cheated on me!" Amore protests.
"Midnight Allure confessed to me after that practice session before suddenly kissing me! I told her I'd need time to consider her feelings and was going to tell you about it!" Selene stops to fiercely kick Amore in the stomach making her cough up blood. "But what did I find going back to our room? Nothing!" Selene stabs her sabre into Amore's leg making the mare groan in pain. "Fancy Pants told me he saw you leaving through the locked gate which you promptly destroyed in frustration..."
Selene makes Amore stand up so she can smack her fist into the mare's stomach so hard she propels her backwards across the floor in a roll. When Amore stops she coughs up blood.
"W-what's up with this freaky strength?" Amore asks coughing.
"Oh that's right. Crystal Prep Academy also has another name... Lycan Prep Academy. It's where they send the majority of Lycan's because many of us don't see eye to eye with Vampires. We were never together long enough for you to find out I was a Lycan... By your fangs I see the halfbreed decided to become a Vampire after all..." Selene walks over to her tube and sheathes her sabre.
"W-where the fuck you going? We ain't finished here!" Amore protests before grabbing her stomach.
Dark clouds suddenly pollute the sky and it begins to rain heavily. Selene's eyes turn back to normal and she clenches her fists.
"It's over Amore... You can't win. I've spent two years thinking and figuring out what I'd do when I finally met you again." Selene walks over to Amore and grabs her collar. "We used to be something special... But all this time you were just running from the truth. Even though you got with Octavia, you still look back and wonder if you should of stayed. It doesn't matter now... We are over, Amore. There will never be anything between us again. I suggest you move on, I know I have." Selene finishes as she throws Amore back on her ass.
Selene walks away from Amore to leave her in her own self pity as she stares up at the rain clouds beating down on her. The blood red scissor blade lays beside her just inches away from her hand. Thousands of thoughts passed through Amore's mind, regret, sadness, depression. She wondered if she should have made a different choice, if she should have stayed. Suddenly she heard a familiar comforting voice that broke her out of the trance.
"So, that's the whole truth then." Octavia states, squatting down beside Amore.
"Looks like it... In the end I'm the bad mare once again..." Amore sighs deeply.
"In all our encounters and times alone, you always used to look distant when given time to think. The only time you never wore that expression was during our first time having sex. You have been hung up on her for two years, don't you think it's time to properly move on?" Octavia places her hand on Amore's.
"I can't beat her... She is a Lycan. If you were watching, you saw how fast she is..." Amore closes her eyes.
"Then get faster... Get stronger... We have been through this. When you meet an opponent that you can't defeat, what do you do?" Octavia asks Amore.
"It's not so easy..." Amore protests.
Octavia rolls her eyes and helps Amore stand up. The pair put away the scissor blade and Octavia wears the silver case.
"Come on, I know exactly what you need." Octavia begins to help Amore limp towards the front gate.
Octavia opens the door to Valentine's helping Amore walk into the bar. The bar has quite a few ponies in it who are drinking or playing pool. Amore takes a seat at the bar with Octavia when Valentine comes to serve them.
"What the fuck happened to you? You look like utter shit." Valentine smiles and serves her a Whiskey while sliding Octavia a Martini.
"She is having a little rough day... The walk here alone was exhausting. I couldn't find Aqua so..." Octavia sips her drink and sighs.
"Aqua has been here a while with Scarlet, Derpy and that Hooviet mare." Valentine informs them while he cleans a glass.
"If it helps, I feel like shit too... Selene Bloodmoon is the name of my fucking agony..." Amore states as she drinks half her Whiskey.
"An ex no doubt, by the looks of your face... I'd wager a fight. Seems you have yet to fully move on from your past." Valentine smiles as he pours himself a drink.
"Isn't it bad for you to drink while working?" Amore comments.
"Ins't it bad for a Von Scratch to get her ass handed to her?" Valentine retorts, taking a sip of his Whiskey.
"Touché... Can't really argue with that. What is the entertainment selection for this evening?" Amore asks finishing her Whiskey.
"A very talented piano playing mare, has been coming down here with the blonde one during the days AMR-3 doesn't play. She has been helpful in filling the gaps, says she must work in order to belong in a society outside her beloved Hooviet Union." Valentine smirks.
"You have got to be fucking kidding me..." Amore turns to look at the stage.
On the stage Amore can see Veronica playing a piano with Derpy sitting on top with a harmonica. The pair begin the song and Amore decides to turn to face them.
It's nine o'clock on a Saturday
He says, "Son can you play me a memory
Sing us a song you're the piano mare
Now D at the bar is a friend of mine
He says, "V, I believe this is killing me."
Now Jim is a real estate novelist
And the waitress is practising politics
Amore looks around the bar to see that everypony is raising their glasses and swaying to Veronica playing the piano which makes her smile with Valentine at the mare.
Sing us a song you're the piano mare
It's a pretty good crowd for a Saturday
And the piano it sounds like a carnival
Sing us a song you're the piano mare
Veronica finishes playing the piano to a resounding applause from everypony in the bar. She gets up and happily bows with Derpy before they walk off the stage together. Amore sighs as her glass is refilled by Valentine.
"She is doing very well for herself outside of the Hooviet Union, she speaks about you a lot. She says how you being her rival gives her purpose and Armonia gives her a place to belong. You might have been the reason she got kicked out, but you're also the reason she is living more now then she ever was." Valentine chuckles as he downs his Whiskey.
"I guess so... This seems to be a routine doesn't it? I get my ass handed to me and I go and have myself a lone pity party... Happened after Shintaku beat me and I went to the family estate... Now, it's because of Selene." Amore downs her whole Whiskey glass.
"Two years, right? You still carry around her small picture in your pocket?" Valentine asks, which makes Octavia raise an eyebrow.
Amore spits out half her drink and harshly swallow the rest before coughing violently. "How the fuck do you know about that?! I never told anypony that crap!"
"You know I work for Lady Von Scratch as an informant? I don't run this bar just for fun you know. Who do you think ponies say the most shit to?" Valentine smirks, leaning back on the counter behind him.
"Their bartender... Mother fucker..." Amore reluctantly pulls out a small photograph of Selene smiling in front of a bush from her skirt hemline. "Not a lot of pockets on a skirt... Had to get very creative..." Amore sadly admits.
"Now, I don't know a whole lot about relationships, but... Is it not about time you stop letting her control your thoughts? You can't beat her, you're not as fast as her... As an old Vampire I'm going to tell you that is bullshit. You can be every bit as fast as her and more, you have that opportunity as a half breed. You can go beyond the limits of mere Lycan or Vampire, you can take those limits and smash through them. Not only are you a Vampire half breed, but you're a Von Scratch! You're the daughter of Vinyl Von Scratch, the head of the Von Scratch family which is one of the three most powerful Vampire family's in all of Equestria! Do you want to know something much more important?" Valentine leans on the bar and stares Amore down.
"W-what..?" Amore stares back.
"You're AMR-3... That means something, not only to you, but to everyone of those ponies who listens to your music and feels the vibes you give them. Whenever Vinyl fights, she has music, she always goes into into battle with a rhythm to follow and a beat to guide her hooves." Valentine stands upright and sighs.
"Hey, Val... You got a lighter?" Amore asks.
"Yeah, why?" Valentine gives Amore the lighter from his pocket.
Amore flips open the metal lighter and sets the small picture alight and drops the burning tiny piece left into a provided glass of water which is disposed off.
"I'm tired of always putting myself down... Or putting Octavia second..." Amore looks to Octavia, about to speak.
Octavia instead deeply kisses Amore and slaps her afterwards.
"No apology, no feeling sorry, no saying sorry, that slap was enough and you kicking her ass will be your punishment." Octavia states before going back to her Martini.
"I deserved that... I promise I'll kick her ass. Excuse me, I gotta go to the little mare's room..." Amore stands up and stretches.
Amore walks past the bar to reach the hallway which leads to the stage. She stretches a little before noticing Derpy and Veronica making out near the bathroom doors. Her jaw drops and she checks her eyes twice before clearing her throat to get their attention. The pair quickly part as they see Amore.
"Oh, Amore... Hi, umm... Well..." Veronica tries to speak past her blush.
Derpy says nothing and simply stands with her hands behind her back and blushing intensely.
"How long?" Amore asks.
"Oh... Just a few minutes ago, I decided to get my feelings out to Derpy now rather than later..." Veronica admits.
"Her being a Vampire?" Amore asks cracking her neck as she stretches.
"Despite being in the anti-supernatural Hooviet Union division... I find it very cute with Derpy and I don't mind a bit... New surroundings, new views you know..." Veronica shuffles closer to Derpy so she can hold her hand.
"Alright, have fun, I'm happy for you both. Use protection and all that..." Amore enters the mare's bathroom past them and they exit the hallway towards the bar, blushing brightly.
After going to the toilet, Amore walks out of the bathroom and makes her way back to the bar. Once sat back down she is approached by Tranquil Wind, Silver Stitch and Moonlit Dusk.
"So, we take it you have a plan?" Tranquil Wind asks, folding her arms.
"One befitting us no doubt." Silver Stitch adds.
Amore takes a deep breath as Aqua Streak, Scarlet Orange and an insanely blushing Veronica join the other three standing in front of Amore. She puts a cocktail stick in her mouth from the bar and wears her signature grin.
"Considering Crystal Prep Academy has held a spotless record thus far over Armonia... I say it's time we shake up the Supernatural Games with some dramatic flare, epic music and kick ass fights." Amore states, holding her Whiskey glass.
"I'd fund it." Aqua Streak smiles.
"I agree, it's a plan I can get behind." Tranquil Wind adds.
"I believe the appeal to you, my dear, is that it isn't much of a plan at all, but I can support it regardless." Silver Stitch sighs.
Veronica and Scarlet Orange nod in agreement with the plan and Amore downs her Whiskey.
"Then, tomorrow we show those Crystal Prep jackasses who it is they are fucking with." Amore smiles and slams her glass down.
Author's Note
This chapter took a bit longer to write because of character designs and names... Oh my god names! Nevertheless, look forward to the Battle Royal chapters which will feature chapters for all the big fights and will include character back story + development. Stay tuned for so much more!
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
The whole academy is in full swing with loud music and decorations as the first day of the Supernatural Games is under way. On the left side of the academy using the running track and other athletic areas is the sports section of the Supernatural Games. On the right side of the academy is the gardening club's large greenhouse and a laboratory for any clubs that do experiments, the facility's are being used for the magical part of the games. Inside the academy all the cooking classrooms have been set up for the baking part of the games. Meanwhile the back of the academy was cleaned up and has been transformed into an arena featuring multiple fighting areas. Against the back of the academy overlooking the main fight stage is the student council judge's box which has TV screens above them so they can watch over all the other arena areas. The majority of the student council members are already sitting on their respective sides inside the box with Presidents Flutterbat and Nike sitting in the middle sharing some wine. Fancy Pants is talking to Selene while she sharpens her sabre.
"What is it you wanted me for, Selene?" Fancy Pants asks.
"You won't have to worry about Amore... After our heart to heart fight last night I doubt she will have it in her to compete." Selene states.
"I see... That puts me at ease, not that I doubt you and your team, Mrs. Bloodmoon." Fancy Pants nods.
Octavia walks past them both wearing a wide smile.
"Good morning, Fancy Pants. I hope today will prove interesting to watch." Octavia makes her way to the judge's box.
"She seemed... A little too happy." Fancy Pants mumbles to himself.
Selene looks up to say something, but instead stares into the distance.
"Oh you have got to be fucking with me..." Selene sheathes her sabre and stands up.
Fancy Pants follows her line of sight and his jaw drops in equal bewilderment. In the distance walking towards the arena area in front of the judges box is Amore with her silver case across her back walking beside Silver Stitch and Moonlit Dusk while Tranquil Wind, Veronica, Scarlet Orange and Aqua Streak are behind them. The group reach the pair and Selene shares a fierce stare with Amore before they move on to find a place to sit.
"What the devil was that about?" Fancy Pants asks Selene.
"She doesn't want my team and I to lose before she gets a chance to pound us into dust during the final." Selene states while sharpening her sabre.
"I'll never understand how you fighter types relay whole messages through an intense stare... Well, in any case good luck. Try not to lose, eh?" Fancy Pants walks off to join everyone in the judge's box.
Principal Flutterbat stands up with Principal Nike so they can deliver the starting speech.
"Welcome everypony, Gryphon, Changeling and Minotaur to the twenty fifth annual Supernatural Games. This year the games are being held to welcome the coming of Winter and to mark the coming end of a school term." Principal Flutterbat begins.
"To both academy's we wish the best of luck in their respective areas and desire nothing but your best efforts. Each specialist area of the Supernatural Games is being individually scored with every area's score being added up in the end to provide the true winner." Principal Nike continues.
"To this end we hope that each area has put it's best hoof and talon forwards to show the best it's academy can offer. With the entrance speech out of the way, do your best and strive for exceptional results." Principal Flutterbat finishes.
"Let the games begin!" Both principals state in unison before sitting down and pouring more wine.
Amore cracks her knuckles and she and her team take arena one and Selene's team set up on arena five. Octavia stands up to deliver the fighter area speech.
"Now, I'm sure you all already know how this works, but for those new to the fighting part of the Supernatural Games I'll explain the rules again. Each team must fight their way to the top of the board and aim for the pre-quarter finals, so you could call this the preliminary rounds. During this stage each team is given one life, should they be defeated that life is expended and they are taken out of the running. When a team is taken out their current score will be added to the representing academy's total fighting area tally. So, it's needless to say, but the more you win the higher your score and if you make it all the way you win big points. Next comes the rules of engagement. Any team may challenge one another to a duel, but you may want to think carefully about the capabilities of your squad. For these duels you may use any weapon or ability that is known to you, nothing is out of bounds except killing. We have a combined exceptional medical unit on standby for any serious or fatal injuries that may occur. I need not remind everypony that by signing up to partake in the Supernatural Games Fighting Arena you forfeit any right to a complaint or lawsuit against your representing academy upon the infliction of said serious and fatal injury. In the case of an unexpected death the inflicting individual will be detained and held for trial by none other than Princess Luna herself and the academy's reputation severely stripped for such an offence. With those base explanations out of the way I wish you all luck and may the battle commence!" Octavia bows slightly and sits back down.
"Is everything prepared for the arena?" Amore asks Veronica who folds her arms.
"I don't quite recall when I became your second in command, but... I appreciate the position. Your mother oddly sent me an email stating that the modifications were done and payments had been made." Veronica looks at Amore who smiles.
"I figured you were used to the position and knew how to handle it. In the meantime, let's turn up the volume!" Amore holds her arms out and claps her hands together hard.
The resulting smack of her hands draws the attention of everypony nearby including Fancy Pants in the judge's box. The ground rumbles slightly as the area behind them opens up and a three tiered bench rises out. Fancy Pant's jaw drops and he turns to Principal Nike.
"Principal Nike, surely the Von Scratch girl cannot claim an arena all to herself? This is most unprecedented." Fancy Pants states in distress.
"You see, Fancy. The Von Scratch family, much like the Von Melody family are one of the three leading Vampire families in Equestria. As such they are also the wealthiest. Lady Von Scratch made the payments for the modifications herself and gave a generous donation to both academy's." Principal Nike swirls her wine glass around.
"Y-you mean to tell me she is the legitimate daughter of Vinyl Von Scratch?! I always thought her a simple pretender to the Von Scratch name! She had no proof and what's more no confirmation when I sent a letter to them asking about her legitimacy!" Fancy Pants states in shock disbelief.
"Be careful , Fancy. Your tie is starting to look crooked." Octavia giggles and crosses her leg.
Fancy Pants checks his tie and huffs before settling down. Meanwhile back at arena one Amore is sitting with her team on the bench while flicking through her iPod. Suddenly a group of four Crystal Prep students wielding various weapons step into the red outline of the arena.
"Hey! We want to challenge you, Amore!" The main stallion points his sword at the group.
Amore turns to look behind her and beams a wide smile.
"Which one of you want to take on this group?" Amore states, still flicking through the iPod.
"It's only the start of the games so I suppose we should save our new team members for later battles. I'll take this one." Veronica states as she enters the fighting ring.
Veronica draws her daggers from the sheathe at the base of her back before flipping them around her hands a few times.
"Something upbeat?" Amore asks, looking around her team who give her mixed head gestures making her groan. "Upbeat it is then, you guys are so talkative in the morning."
"Amore, surely you cannot hope to let one team member take on all four of us by herself." The main stallion states.
Amore simply gives him a confident grin before throwing an upbeat fighting tune on from the iPod and gets comfortable to watch the match. Veronica and the opposite team charge towards each other. Two mares try to sandwich her between a joint attack, but are deflected at the same time by Veronica's daggers. Using momentum Veronica mounts a counter attack by performing a cyclone blade move which takes out both mares who attempted to follow up their deflected attacks. The second stallion charges at Veronica and uses his speed to try and unleash a flurry of quick strikes with his short sword. Sliding underneath the stallion, Veronica side swipes his legs making him start to fall over. After her initial attack Veronica kicks the stallion in the stomach causing him to roll across the floor. She then turns to the main stallion and flips her daggers in her hands again.
"Looks like you're the first score for our team, da?" Veronica smiles as she sprints towards the stallion.
The main stallion ducks under her first slash, but fails to dodge the follow up attack which connects Veronica's knee with his face and puts him on the ground. The crowd watching Amore's arena cheer as their first win is added to their score and Veronica sheathes her daggers again before walking back to the team. A group of medics with stretchers run over and collect the students before running off again.
"Looks like the party is truly getting started now, let's pump up the volume shall we?" Amore states with a wide grin before crossing her legs and leaning back.
Another team stepped into the arena this time being composed of four mares wielding longswords. Tranquil Wind sighs as she steps into the fighting ring and looks back at Amore.
"I got this one." Tranquil Wind states before narrowly dodging a slash from one of the mares.
Tranquil Wind grabs the mares wrist twisting it making her drop the longsword. She then kicks the back of the mares right leg bringing her to her knees before hitting the back of her neck to knock her out. After she hits the floor the remaining three mares jointly attack Tranquil Wind with two slashes that cross each other making her dodge by leaning back in a limbo. The third mare then attempts to slam her sword down on her seemingly defenceless position, but Tranquil Wind stops the blade with her teeth and maintains her posture. Her eyes turn the same cloudy deep blue as Selene's, she then breaks the blade in half with her teeth before standing up straight and performing a one-two punch on the left mare in front of her to put her down easily. She then dodges a whirlwind slash from the right mare counter attacking with a strong punch to her chest followed up with a swipe kick to put her down. Turning to the last mare she drops her sword and sighs in defeat before leaving the arena with her team aided by the medics.
"That was fun." Tranquil Wind walks back to the bench to have Silver Stitch sit on her lap and cuddle her gently.
"Bloody Love is up by two hundred points. Both Cinnamon Skulls and Vermilion Rebels have been defeated." Octavia updates the digital leaderboard which is displayed above the whole arena from the display in front of her on the judges box.
"Flying Avengers, Cyan Witches and Grounded Destruction have all been defeated bringing Silver Fangs total points to three hundred." Fancy Pants updates the leaderboard.
Amore takes her headphones down and frowns at the large digital display. Looking around she can see that three hovering Crystal Prep teams are loitering near her arena and she gets an idea. Jumping up she walks over to the judge's box.
"Sup, are these fights limited to just one on one team battles or is it possible to spice things up?" Amore asks.
The student councils look at each other before shrugging and Principal Nike chuckles.
"It has never been done before to be honest-" Principal Nike is interrupted.
"I'm just asking if it's possible for two or more teams to face one team in a two on one or three on one fight." Amore states.
Principal Nike blinks a few times before a wicked smile creeps across her face.
"Hmm well, what do you think Principal Flutterbat? I have no problem with it." Principal Nike swirls her wine around in the glass.
"Hmm? Sure, I don't see why not." Principal Flutterbat smiles in response.
"Sweet, thanks." Amore walks off.
Fancy Pants leans into Principal Nike. "Are you sure that's a good idea?"
Principal Nike laughs and leans back in her chair. "Calm down Fancy, if she wants to eliminate her team from the running so easily, who am I to deny her the end?"
Amore stands up on the bench and points to the three teams and whistles to get their attention.
"Hey! How about you three Crystal Prep teams fight my team all at once? A three V.S one fight." Amore jumps down to a sitting position.
The three teams look at each other, consisting of a mixture between Lycans and normal ponies, while being comprised of mainly stallions this time. After a few minutes of talking they all agree and step into the arena brandishing an even wider array of weapons such as longswords, short swords, daggers and clubs. Amore leans her head back to look at Moonlit Dusk, who is lying across the top bench tier.
"I've set up your stage, if you'd like to perform." Amore closes her eyes.
Moonlit Dusk sits up and stretches before strolling down into the arena area and pulling out a MP3 player from her lab coat pocket. She plugs in some normal earphones and puts it back before cracking her fingers.
"My name is Moonlit Dusk, daughter of Sunset Shimmer and Starlight Glimmer. Hidden descendant of the one and only Undead Pirate Princess Lula Bloodmoon. Spirits, heed my summons and grant me the audience I seek so that I might end this quickly." Moonlit Dusk holds out her arms and smiles.
After several seconds a glowing blue spirit of a massive shark rises from in front of Moonlit Dusk and snarls at the three teams who now seem shaken and are unsure of what is going on.
"Finish them quickly and without mercy, oh please don't kill them." Moonlit Dusk orders as she points her finger towards them.
The shark nods in compliance as it flies towards the teams and begins tearing through them. Smacking them with his fins, head butting them and biting them with his teeth. The three teams are quickly defeated each without a single scratch on their physical bodies. Fancy Pants coughs violently on his orange juice box as he blinks his eyes.
"How is that even possible?" Fancy Pants exclaims to Principal Nike.
"Moonlit Dusk is the descendent of the Undead Pirate Princess Lula Bloodmoon. While our beloved Selene Bloodmoon is a descendent of her named bloodline who did not receive her necromantic gift, Moonlit Dusk comes from the bloodline that did. By the looks of it and her eye, she got the whole affinity. Meaning she not only posses the same if not stronger level of necromancer magic that the princess had, but she is also the true heir to her power." Principal Nike explains.
"How many high bloodline ponies does Amore have in her damn group... She, herself, is the daughter of Vinyl Von Scratch. Moonlit Dusk is the descendant of the Undead Pirate Princess Lula Bloodmoon... Who the devil is next?" Fancy Pants sits back in his chair.
Moonlit Dusk strokes the spirit shark, rewarding it for a good job before it leaves back into the ground and she sits down again as the teams are being removed from the arena by the medics.
"Wasn't quite expecting that, but I'm very impressed." Amore states with a smile as she looks up at the leaderboard to see three hundred points added to her team.
Fancy Pants grunts in annoyance, laying his head on his arms and sighing.
Meanwhile on the academy rooftop a hooded figure leans on the railing and watches Amore's team with intent. Her coat is a bright orange like Amore, she wears a black long hood, black shirt with a sword sheath strap across the front, black hard leather trousers and a belt that has many daggers around it with a crossbow bolt pouch on the back.
"A bit dangerous for you to be here, isn't it?" Princess Luna stands beside the figure and looks at them.
"I guess... My brother found something and left his notes out again... I had to come see for myself if what he suspected was true. What better day to do so than the fabled Supernatural Game?" They carry a thick country accent.
"You know your recent actions have made you a very unpopular pony around here." Princess Luna states making the mare scoff.
"'Their actions... I take no personal responsibility for the Hooviet Union vampire hunter divisions actions, nor for those of the necromancer Shintaku..." The mare replies in defiance.
"Hmm... Most interesting. I shan't pry, but you should still be careful around here. Do be sure not to kill anyone... That'd be an annoying situation for me to be put in... You were one of my favourite pupils after all. So, do behave." Princess Luna states before disappearing.
The mare sighs deeply and checks a silver pocket watch before resuming to watch the fights
Selene leans back on her teams bench bobbing her head to some music coming from her headphones while a dark pink mare with an arctic blue mane and tail that has midnight blue highlights walks over, sitting beside her.
"Put your ear to the ground, listen to that sound. You're a house of cards and its about to fall down~" Selene sings to herself before being tapped on the shoulder by the mare.
Sliding an earphone so she can hear anything she says, Selene looks at the mare's midnight blue eyes.
"You might be interested to know that Amore's team is proving annoying to the leaderboard." The mare points up to the big digital leaderboard
"Midnight Allure, sweetie. She may have got her fire back, but she wont reach the finals... I'd give it till the semi-finals at the most." Selene states relaxing.
"Are you sure you should discount her so easily, mein Freund?" An alabaster mare asks, who is sitting on the opposite side of the bench.
Looking behind her Selene can see that she wears a military uniform composed of greens and blacks with a distinct emblem patch on her shoulder. Her light blue eyes smiling back at Selene who sighs.
"Rein has a point, we all know how she used to fight at Crystal Prep. We can only assume she has improved her technique since leaving." A mare next to Rein adds.
The new mare has a deep blue coat with golden eyes, her straight mane and tail are golden with black streaks.
"She hasn't... I fought her last night. Still the same overzealous Earth Pony we used to spare with." Selene states bitterly before putting her headphones right.
"Wir werden sehen, wie sich dies entwickelt." Rein comments before going back to watching some nearby fights.
"I still think Aries has a valid point... She was emotionally unbalanced during your fight no doubt. Without that unbalance there is no telling what she is capable of. It's clear her team doesn't lack skill." Midnight Allure sighs deeply before cuddling up to Selene.
Silver Stitch sits back down after handing out high fives for her victory in the arena and cuddles up to Tranquil Wind once sat back down. Amore looks at the time and that another more skilled group steps into their arena wielding longswords and broadswords. Standing up she stretches and breaks out her scissor blade from the silver case below her and slowly steps into the arena.
"Finally coming out from behind your team to face somepony yourself. We have just enough time to put you in your place and rest for the quarter final tomorrow." The lead stallion states flipping his longsword around his hand.
"To be honest I'm surprised we got so many teams to fight, but I was afraid if I fought so soon it'd scare them all off. I guess we aren't as fearful as Selene's team..." Amore's signature smile graces her muzzle as her demeanour changes into a battle stance. "Shall we fix that?"
Amore flips on a song with her iPod and places it firmly in her pocket before tapping her hoof to the beat. The lead stallion calls for the charge signalling Amore's queue to sprint towards them, sliding underneath two longsword slashes and stopping just in time to avoid a downward broadsword strike. Amore smiles and uses her legs to push herself up into a back flip over the two ponies behind her. Once back on her feet she two step kicks the left mare in the face before blocking a slash from the right stallion, enabling her to knock his hooves out from under him and render him unconscious on the floor. Rolling to the side she springs up into a defensive stance against the remaining lead stallion and his two team members left.
"Is it just me or does Amore seem to have a certain... Pодник to her step?" Veronica asks looking to the others.
"Hmm she does seem to have an extra spring in her movements, like she found new purpose." Moonlit Dusk comments.
Amore charges at the trio and slides underneath the lead stallion before flipping up and knocking out his left goon with her knee. She then blocks and counter attacks a slash from the right goon taking him out with the 'pommel' of her scissor blade, all before the lead stallion could turn around.
"You lose~" Amore sings before two step kicking the lead stallion in the face putting him on the ground.
At that moment the leaderboard was updated once more before fireworks and a whistle marked the end of the preliminary rounds. The surviving teams gather in front of the judges box to be addressed as Principal Nike and Flutterbat stand up.
"Congratulations to those who now stand before us as the surviving contenders of the Preliminary rounds. From here on out it is even more rigorous." Principal Nike begins.
"All the teams standing here right now are some of the best in the running. As such this will no longer be a cake walk. This is the way things have always been, how they always will be. Those of you who manage to make it through the next few days will reach the fabled finals." Principal Flutterbat crosses her arms.
"From this point on, no longer shall we see you fight in these dusty makeshift arenas." Principal Nike smiles.
"From now on the thirty teams before us shall fight in the most hallowed of our sacred grounds." Principal Flutterbat looks at Nike.
"Many have lost and many have won in this arena of champions. Not all of those wins have been supernatural, but normal ponies too." Principal Nike explains.
"From this point on you shall fight to prove which is the best in-" Both Principals take a breath as they push a button on the judges box.
"The Supernatural Games Fighting Arena!" Both principals shout as a large shaped arena begins to rise out of the ground in front of them in the distance, not too far away from the academy.
The arena is beautifully designed like a football or Pokemon stadium. Carrying such grace and elegance in its dark pitch black colour scheme and dark décor. All the teams stand in awe, but none so more then Amore herself who can't take her eyes off the grand stage. That is until a soft pair of lips caressed her neck and warm arms wrapped around her.
"Enjoying the Supernatural Games?" Octavia's soft velvet voice rings in Amore's ears almost making her purr.
"Sooo much~ I'm extremely glad you asked me to set up a team." Amore leans back into Octavia.
By now the majority of the teams have dispersed so they can rest for tomorrow, but Amore couldn't take her eyes from the arena.
"It'll still be there tomorrow, come on. You need rest and a nice warm bath." Octavia licks Amore's ear making her shiver.
"Oh~ So... Good~" Amore moans lying on the bed naked with Octavia on top of her, also naked.
"I figured after your bath you'd enjoy a peaceful massage. After all you were tense trying to keep up with Selene's team." Octavia massages a spot in Amore's back hard making it crack.
"Oh sweet Celestia!" Amore moans before melting back into Octavia's skilled hands. "I didn't want to be second to her, not again."
"You will get to face her in the finals. I can tell you that your teams are on opposite sides of the board for the pre-quarter finals. However, you know I cannot tell you the exact line up." Octavia massages the base of Amore's back making her purr.
"That's okay, knowing would spoil the surprise. I'll try my best and hope it's enough. When did you get so good..." Amore moans as Octavia slides up to her shoulders.
"I had my head maid teach me after you mentioned about achy muscles and a hurting back. I learned just for you." Octavia whispers into Amore's ear.
"You're the best marefriend I could have ever asked for. I mean that, fighting skills and an amazing personality. Selene doesn't even compare to you~" Amore praises Octavia.
The mare in question lays her front flat against the orange mare's back rubbing her chest playfully upon her marefriend. "Your flirting is getting better~" Octavia snakes her hand under Amore's thigh and between her legs where she made the singer use her vocals in such a delightful way.
"I love when you use your voice so well during our private sessions. It sounds like liquid gold." Octavia nibbles on Amore's ear.
"Just as much as I love you using those skilled fingers to play my-" Octavia cuts Amore short with a sudden action which sends shocks of pleasure through the mare. "like your cello~" Amore finishes.
"Let's help you blow off some steam and relax before the fights tomorrow. I believe you deserve a reward for besting that werewolf's team today." Octavia purrs in Amore's ear making her practically melt into the grey mare eagerly.
Author's Note
Sorry for the delay, I was having a few problems writing for a period of time. Also, I'd like to point out that Rein is indeed a Nazi. There was much debate within myself weather or not to do what I had in mind. After getting very little feedback off a blog post which included this issue and not having any personal issue with doing it. I have gone ahead with my original plan. Next chapter is already in the works.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
"Welcome mares, gentlecolts and other attending races to the twenty fifth Supernatural Games Fighting Arena Pre-Quarter Finals!" A middle aged stallion gleefully states, in a thick British accent from the commentators box in the arena.
The interior of the arena is paved in lush white comfortable chairs, an outfitted commentators box and VIP viewing arena. The crowds of students are paving in to take their seats, Armonia and Crystal Prep becoming a mixture in the stands, not caring who is with who.
"We are your beloved commentators, Silver Vase."
"And Sandstone Mike. As always we will be providing real time commentary on the fights you will see here today." Another middle aged stallion states, in a thick Australian accent.
The gathering crowd roar to life to welcome the traditional arena commentators.
"Quite right and as always we have a sensual line up on for you today." Silver Vase looks to Mike with a smile.
"Aye Vase, you're right. Not only that mate, but they are rocking some of the biggest names I've ever seen." Sandstone Mike replies.
The crowd eagerly get seated before the teams begin their onstage parade to stand proud before the combined academies.
"Oh yes, I see what you mean. One such team is headed by none other then Amore Sànge Von Scratch, daughter to Vinyl Von Scratch of all Vampires." Silver Vase looks over the team listing.
"But do my eyes deceive me Vase, or is that the legendary Grand Couturier Silver Stitch? Daughter of the esteemed fashionista Rarity?" Sandstone Mike exclaims, surprised.
"By Jove, I think it is! You know I have a scarf from their last winter collection at home. I say, their clothing is top notch." Silver Vase states, proudly.
"From Crystal Prep you have the highly acclaimed household name of Bloodmoon, held by none other than Selene Bloodmoon." Sandstone Mike points out making the Crystal Prep students roar in cheer.
"Whose ancestor is naught, but the infamous Undead Pirate Princess Lula Bloodmoon. Their is a lot of heritage out on that stage today, Mike." Silver Vase smiles.
The teams finish their parade and turn to face away from the commentators box to look up into the VIP viewing area. Princess Luna sits between Principal Nike and Flutterbat.
"However, Vase, before we can get the fights under way, we must now be in silence to receive the honourable blessing from our former headmaster and mistress of the night, Princess Luna." Sandstone Mike states making the arena hush.
Princess Luna stands up and smiles at the teams before taking a deep breath.
"Hello my children. It has been a full year since we last gathered here in this hallowed arena. It is clear to me in that time many of you have grown up in more ways than one. However, for myself it has been far too long since I last watched our beloved games. So many faces of those I used to teach, reflected in the faces of their offspring and I dare say they have done their parents proud. I value each and every one of my children, from the night dwelling Vampires to the moon howling Werewolves. Even pixies, fairy's and undead alike share in my vast love. That is not to say I love the normal ponies any less, which is the whole reason for my dream. That through our sacred academies, we will learn to live side by side in harmony. I wish every team the best of luck throughout these trialling rounds of the games. Thank you." Princess Luna bows and finishes her speech.
Almost instantly the arena erupted into a resounding cheer and applause for the Princess of the Night as she sits back down. The teams begin their way back into the preparation area of the arena.
"Such an alluring speech, Princess Luna." Principal Flutterbat comments.
"Truly awe inspiring." Principal Nike adds.
"I suppose, I'm confident these games will prove interesting. Would you both care for some wine?" Princess Luna offers levitating a vintage bottle of red wine.
Both mares nod happily and eagerly.
In the preparation area of the arena each of the thirty two teams have their own room in order to relax for the games. Amore's team is preparing in their room which is fitted with weight lifting apparatus and several benches. Amore lies on a bench by the wall listening to her headphones while paying no attention to anything around her. Tranquil Wind is lifting some hand weights next to Silver Stitch, who is drawing.
"Has anyone else noticed that Amore seems a little out of it today?" Tranquil Wind asks, looking at Amore.
Veronica opens her eyes from leaning on the wall and glances at Tranquil Wind.
"She does appear more quiet and reclusive than normal... Maybe it's the nerves." Veronica comments as the door to the room opens.
Scarlet Orange and Aqua Streak walk into the room wearing matching white corset dresses that have skirts that stop halfway down their thighs. The sleeves on their arms stop halfway down their forearms and end in a backwards arrow shape.
"Beautiful looking dresses." Moonlit Dusk comments from her sitting position on the floor.
"Thank you, they came with our new equipment that Derpy delivered in the mail this morning." Scarlet Orange states with a smile.
Aqua Streak is wearing thigh high white stockings while Scarlet Orange shows off two new bracelets.
"You two still get new equipment from the order?" Veronica asks, raising an eyebrow.
"Not quite, we were cut off and thrown out of HQ... However, we have a generous contact who let's us have first pick on anything she develops." Aqua Streak explains.
"What about you, Veronica?" Scarlet Orange asks.
"I have a friend back home in the motherland who develops my weapons and gear." Veronica replies.
There is a large TV screen in their room which shows all the fights that happen which has Amore's eyes watching it intently. Suddenly the door opens and Octavia enters the room.
"I decided to step away for the moment to come and see how you're all doing." Octavia frowns looking at Amore.
"She has been like this since the fights began." Tranquil Wind explains.
"I've looked at the line up posted on the board, we are facing two sisters next. There abilities seem close to our own twin sisters... As such I'd like you two to take care of this match." Veronica looks at Scarlet Orange and Aqua Streak.
"Sure, we got this." Aqua Streak states in response.
"That's good. Might I have the room for a little bit?" Octavia asks.
Everyone leaves the room leaving Amore and Octavia alone. Sighing deeply she walks over and sits behind Amore, lifting her head up and placing it down on her lap. Amore slides down her headphones to hear Octavia.
"What's with the overly serious mood this afternoon? You were happy this morning." Octavia strokes Amore's mane.
"Just thinking about stuff and Selene... I don't miss her and I know we need to win these games..." Amore sighs.
"But..? What has my little Von Scratch so down?" Octavia presses.
"I should be enjoying these fights, but... Something inside me feels off, like an eerie feeling that wont subside." Amore looks up at Octavia.
"Hmm... I don't know what it is you're feeling inside, sweetie. However, I know you need to relax and take your mind off whatever has you feeling so uneasy." Octavia gently kisses Amore.
"Could my gorgeous cellist help with that?" Amore asks, cuddling against Octavia.
"I'm sure I could spare a little while for you." Octavia kisses Amore again.
"Ladies and gentlecolts! It's our pleasure to announce the next fight in our line up. Fighting the Twin Hurricanes from Griffonstone is Armonia's very own Pegasus sisters." Silver Vase begins.
"You know them as part of AMR-3's band, a guitar and drum pair that are former members of the Order of Light. We present to you, the infamous Anarchy Sisters!" Sandstone Mike finishes as Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange walk out into the arena.
Both sisters stop a few meters away from the Gryphon sisters that are wearing matching black ninja uniforms. Their feathers are pure white while their fur is a dark brown, the left Gryphon's eyes are emerald green while the right is sapphire blue.
"My name is Stormy Wind and this is my twin sister, Heavy Rain." The left Gryphon introduces them.
"I'm Aqua Streak, Scarlet Orange is my twin sister." Aqua Streak states as they smile at each other.
"Alright! Let's get this fight under way!" Sandstone Mike states before pressing a button making the horn noise which starts the match.
"Shall we?" Aqua Streak asks, slowly sliding off her stockings.
"Let's, dear sister." Scarlet Orange replies slipping off her bracelets.
The two Pegasus spread their wings as their garments begin to glow and resonate with their equipment.
"Where is that music coming from?" Stormy Wind asks, as she looks around slightly before going back to Aqua and Orange.
"Oh pitiful shadow lost in the darkness; Oh evil spirit born of those drifting between Heaven and Earth; May the thunderous power from the garments of these holy delicate maidens strike down upon you with great vengeance and furious anger, Shattering your loathsome impurity and returning you from whence you came. Repent you motherfucker!" Aqua Streak and Scarlet Orange chant in unison.
Aqua Streak's stockings become a pair of modified, glowing blue katanas that have pure white hilts and gold trim. Scarlet Orange's bracelets morph into a pair of glowing blue Desert Eagles that are modified with long slides. Stormy Wind draws her own Gryphon styled longsword while her sister brings out a pair of engraved drum magazine crossbows like the one Van Hellsing uses. The two pairs charge at each other fiercely.
Amore's team is standing in the main lobby of the preparation area. Veronica chuckles as the music comes on and the twin sister's chant begins.
"Trust Amore to have a perfect entrance planned for them." Tranquil Wind comments.
"Actually it was a last minute bribe." Amore admits as she walks over to the group.
"Hmm? You seem to be a little better." Silver Stitch points out.
"Octavia helped me unwind a little before having to go back to the student council. I like the sister's weapons." Amore stretches.
"Indeed, I believe those are enchanted order garments meant only for elites. Whoever they have as a friend must really like them." Veronica explains.
"I suppose they must what with giving them a pair of twin desert eagles." Moonlit Dusk comments.
"Not so sure about the stocking twin swords if I'm honest..." Tranquil Wind adds.
"Oh, but darling you have to look at the practical side as well as the fashionable side. I think they suit the mare quite well, along with being deadly weapons." Silver Stitch states crossing her arms.
"Azure Tornado!" Aqua Streak chants before attaching her katanas together at the base.
Using momentum she begins to spin around in place to generate wind, once she has enough Aqua Streak sends the formed tornado at Stormy Wind. The Gryphon blocks the attack which seems to continuously hit against her longsword.
"W-what the fuck is this? Those weapons are not normal!" Stormy Wind backs off and cuts through the tornado, dispelling it.
Across the way from them is Scarlet Orange and Heavy Rain exchanging a flurry of bullets and crossbow bolts between them. They slide across the floor and come to a stop so Heavy Rain can reload another two drum magazines.
"Why haven't you reloaded yet? Surely pistols don't carry an infinite amount of ammunition?" Heavy Rain asks.
Scarlet Orange giggles and spins her desert eagles around her fingers.
"You silly birdie, They run on spirit energy~" Scarlet Orange sings before the shots begin firing again.
Heavy Rain back-flips out of the way before being kicked in the stomach by Scarlet Orange who seemingly closed the gap with ease. Heavy Rain rolls across the floor and manages to regain her balance in the kneeling position.
"Sister be careful!" Stormy Wind shouts.
Stormy Wind is suddenly attacked in a fierce flurry of quick slashes unleashed by Aqua Streak's now parted katanas. Unable to block all of them, her ninja outfit is cut in several places. Throwing her off balance the Pegasus closes in and uses the back of her blade to slam them into Stormy Wind's stomach and launching her to the side so she rolls beside her sister.
"M-mother fucker... You okay sis?" Stormy Wind asks her sister as she slowly looks up.
Both of the Pegasus sisters stand above the Gryphons while brandishing their weapons and playful smiles. Both sisters sigh in defeat and drop their weapons making the horn sound to end the match.
"And that's all she wrote folks! The winners are the infamous Anarchy Sisters!" Silver Vase shouts in excitement.
"Sound a bit excited there, Vase. That was quite a match." Sandstone Mike comments.
Aqua Streak kneels in front of Stormy Wind to help her up. Confused she accepts as she and Heavy Rain get to their feet.
"I had fun, maybe we should do this again sometime." Scarlet Orange smiles.
"Yeah, I wouldn't mind having a sparring partner. Gryphons are praised for their speed and aerial control." Aqua Streak grins widely.
"T-that sounds like a good idea, right sis?" Heavy Rain prompts her sister.
"I guess... It's been a while since we had any good competition. I mean, Selene's team is crazy strong..." Stormy Wind admits before the pairs shake hands.
As the two teams part, Scarlet Orange and Aqua Streak put back on their garments before walking into the lobby to be ambush hugged by Amore.
"That was fucking awesome! Your weapons are the shit, who is this friend?" Amore asks, letting them both go.
"Oh... Just a friend." Scarlet Orange blushes.
"Y-yeah... Just a friend." Aqua Streak scratches her nose.
"That was an alright fight, could have been better." A cold voice states from behind them.
The team turn around to see Selene standing with Midnight Allure. Amore grits her teeth and clenches her fist.
"Quite the novelty weapons, bangles and stockings... Oh well, some of us have to get by." Midnight Allure comments with a chuckle.
"Why you..." Amore begins, but is cut off.
"Do you two not have a match to get to..?" Octavia walks into the lobby.
"Octavia... We were just leaving." Selene leaves out the arena entrance with Midnight Allure.
"Thanks..." Amore mumbles as Octavia walks over to her and takes her hand.
"You're going to need to control yourself if you want to make it to the final. I understand your pain, that was Midnight Allure?" Octavia asks, but only gets a nod from Amore. "She is quite pretty, but nothing compared to you my dear. I highly doubt such a little disciplined mare could match your perfectly moulded muscles and sexy abs."
Octavia wraps her arms around Amore and slides her hands under the mare's shirt so she can feel her stomach.
"T-Tavi... The team is still here... Stahp, it's embarrassing..." Amore blushes brightly.
"Very sexy~" Octavia whispers in Amore's ear.
Amore practically melts into the loving embrace of her marefriend before Octavia lets go all too soon.
"I came here for another reason. I want you to perform at the Supernatural Games concert tonight. It'll be a perfect opportunity to show off your musical prowess." Octavia states.
The team looks at each other before nodding and looking to Amore, who has stopped blushing.
"Sure, let's do it." Amore finally answers.
The mixed crowd of Crystal Prep and Armonia students have already begun to gather in the main hall of the academy, ready to unwind for the night after another round of the games. Rows of chairs, buffet tables and punch bowls litter the room in order to provide for their guests. Behind the curtain of the stage Amore and her band are setting up their equipment and preparing for their performance.
"Hey, you sure this is the song you want to perform?" Aqua Streak asks Amore, while she tunes her guitar.
"I'm sure, It's a statement not only for myself, but to Selene as well." Amore smiles.
"As your band we'll follow you to Tartarus and back if we have to~" Derpy sings as she gets a shoulder massage from Veronica.
"While I'm not needed for this song, I'll be in the front cheering you on." Veronica states.
"You know... I used to think fighting was all there was to life. I had a single purpose and what seemed like a far fetched goal... Never did I think about what I'd do once it was complete. Now, I'm in the most awesome band and have a beyond wonderful marefriend. I know who my mother is and have a family now. I've everything I could ever possibly want right here at Armonia academy. Now, I think it's time we show them just who it is that'll win this years games." Amore grins widely making her band smile.
Once everypony is settled the curtain comes up and the lights come on to show Amore's band while Veronica makes her way to her assigned spot in the crowd.
"Thank you everypony for coming tonight. It's an honour and privilege that we were asked by the student council to provide the music for this evening's post Pre-Quarter Finals party. Without further adieu, let's rock!" Amore states as the band begins the song .
Top down in the summer sun
I used to be love drunk, but now I'm hung over
Hot sweat and blurry eyes
I used to be love drunk, but now I'm hung over
All the time I wasted on you
I used to be love drunk, but now I'm hung over
Now it's over
Amore finishes the song with the majority of the crowd on their feet cheering in excitement and ecstasy. Everypony is cheering besides Selene and Midnight Allure. Amore holds up her hands as the crowd continue cheering and her band take a bow before the curtain falls again.
"Such a bold statement, mi Amore." Octavia hugs Amore as she is suddenly hugged returning back to backstage.
"Hehe thanks. I felt I needed that, I feel much better now." Amore nuzzles back into Octavia.
"I'm glad you feel better. Now unless you plan to stay for the party, I've got our own little 'party' planned back in our room. If you're interested that is?" Octavia nibbles Amore's ear and nibbles it slightly.
"Hmm~ Please lead on Miss Von Melody, I doubt I want to miss such an opportunity." Amore chuckles.
Octavia smiles and begins to lead her Amore back to their room leaving the party to carry on long into the night.
Author's Note
Well the Pre-Quarter Finals chapter is here at a much faster rate then I have done lately. I loved the songs I put in this chapter, more specifically Love Drunk. I thought it appropriate for Amore and Selene. I hope to see you next time at the Quarter Finals.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Amore groans as the alarm clock goes off at 9:30. Raising her right arm, that is hanging off the bed, she grabs her scissor blade to smash the annoying device.
"Hmm I hope you're not thinking of smashing my favourite clock." Octavia mumbles into Amore's ear as she wraps an arm around her waist.
Sighing in defeat, Amore drops her scissor blade so it sticks into the floor and manually switches it off.
"The floor again? Really Vinyl... Now I have to get it repaired-" Octavia suddenly stops speaking and Amore can feel her begin to shift away.
Amore holds Octavia's arm gently before rolling over to face her. Instead of the expressions she feared would come, she was met with a comforting smile.
"Did my mother stick her sword into the floor often?" Amore pulls the quilt up to them snugly and Octavia shifts a bit closer.
"She did, every time I told her not to destroy our alarm clocks like you have. That's why I brought my favourite one. She would lazily drop her sword into the floor, groan, and then roll back over after shutting it off. I'm sorry-" Octavia began, but was cut off by a kiss from Amore's soft lips.
"I wasn't offended. It makes me happy to be so much alike my mother that you said it by mistake." Amore nuzzles Octavia gently.
"I suppose it would after you spent so long away from her... Knowing you are so much alike her and such, I can see how that would make you happy." Octavia kisses Amore's cheek.
Amore hums before groaning again, knowing they have to get up.
"Do we have to get up? After our 'private party' last night I'd rather not move for a while." Amore nestles up against Octavia.
"You know we have to take a shower this morning on account of the mess we made? Sheets need changing. 'We' need major cleaning." Octavia states firmly.
"But I like the 'marked by the head of the Von Melody family' smell in my coat." Amore teases Octavia who blushes.
"As much as the thought appeals to me, we both have an event to attend today." Octavia reminds Amore.
"I... I was going to call Veronica and ask her to cover for me... That icky feeling is getting worse and I worry for what it means..." Amore cuddles closer to Octavia.
"Hmm... I don't know how Fancy will take me having a day off, especially during the Supernatural Games... Although I've never had a marefriend like you before." Octavia ponders for a bit, biting her lip.
Reaching over Amore she retrieves her phone from the bedside table next to their alarm clock and dials a number.
"President Octavia, what can I help you with?" Amethyst Star asks from the other end.
"I need you to do me a favour and cover for me today..." Octavia asks, a certain unsure tone in her voice.
"Are you sure? You have never missed a day of active duty, not even when feeling ill." Amethyst Star sounds surprised.
Octavia takes a moment to look at her marefriend nestled against her body and sighs a little.
"Yes... Amore doesn't feel well and I... Need to take care of her for today. Can you cover for me?" Octavia asks again, this time with a clear tone.
"I suppose I can sort something out, but you and Amore will owe me for this big time. I hope she feels better soon, Miss President." Amethyst Star hangs up.
"I'm such a bad influence on you..." Amore nuzzles Octavia's neck.
"It's a good thing then, I like it. Now, let's get a shower and change the bed before figuring out what is wrong with you." Octavia states, planting a kiss on Amore's forehead.
Amore nods and the pair begin to get up and move to the shower.
Veronica throws a dagger into the dart board across the preparation room while Tranquil Wind has her jaw dropped.
"What the fuck do you mean she is calling in sick today?!" Aqua Streak protests to the news Veronica just delivered them.
"She called me little after ten this morning and said she feels 'icky' and wont be coming today." Veronica throws another dagger.
"Amore never gets ill or feels 'icky'! This is bullshit!" Aqua Streak slams her fist into a punching bag.
"Hold on a second... if Amore is calling in sick because she has an 'icky' feeling... Then I doubt she would do so if it wasn't an actual concern. I've only known the mare since the start of the Games, but I highly disbelieve that Amore would miss a single day of this event if she could help it..." Moonlit Dusk states reading a big black grimoire while leaning back in her chair.
"Which means we should be concerned, right?" Tranquil Wind asks.
"Yes, darling... I think we should be concerned, but also do our best today and not let Amore down. She is an... Eccentric mare, however, she carries her own sense of flare and finesse about her." Silver Stitch states playing with her scarf.
"Well, I had not planned for us to lose this game today... Four Crystal Prep dragons called the Dragon Quad are our next bout... I'd like Silver Stitch to handle this one by herself." Veronica asks, standing up from lying on the bench.
"What?! You're crazy, she can't take on those four by herself!" Tranquil Wind protests.
"Amore told me who she wanted to have fight today... It's her choice and she hasn't been wrong thus far. I doubt Silver Stitch disagrees." Veronica looks at Silver Stitch.
"I see, pulling out that card is she? I guess I should be a good mare and do as Miss Von Scratch wishes. The match isn't for several hours so it'll give us time to relax and prepare. I need to go see my mother." Silver Stitch states before leaving the room.
"Trust me, she'll be fine. Amore knows what she is doing." Veronica reassures Tranquil Wind.
"I hope you're right... I really do." Tranquil Wind states before starting her exercise on the punching bag.
The VIP box above where the student councils sit is well furnished with a bar and comfy seats. Vinyl Scratch sits on the sofa opposite the window facing out towards the arena itself. Beside her laying down, playfully swinging her legs in the air is the azure mare from before.
"I hope we get to see more of her team fight. I quite enjoyed those twins yesterday~" The mare sings.
"You have way too much energy... Why don't you go find something to play with?" Vinyl asks, leaning back in her seat.
"Nobody in this place besides a handful could handle my energy... Plus, the one I really want to fight is big sis." The mare squees excitedly.
"Since her awakening she has gotten stronger than before. I bet she would prove a challenge even for you." Vinyl muses.
"Yeah, but from the fight two days ago she wasn't using nearly anything of her power... She was faster yeah, but... I expected more..." The mare states disappointed.
Vinyl checks her phone and smirks. "Looks like you won't get to see her today. She called Veronica to say she isn't feeling well and won't be coming today."
The mare sits up and pouts. "That's not fair! I wanted to see big sis... I'm going out for a bit."
The mare stands up and begins to skip out of the VIP box before Vinyl stands up.
"Iluzie, where are you going now?" Vinyl asks, looking concerned.
"Just for a walk~" Iluzie sings before leaving.
"Oh sweet Celestia..." Vinyl drops back down to her seat and sighs deeply before sending a text to someone.
Amore stretches as she and Octavia sit on a bench outside the front entrance to the academy. The only side which isn't being used for the Supernatural Games.
"We changed the bed, had a steamy shower and went for a walk. All the while we have yet to figure out what is wrong with you." Octavia sighs as Amore leans into her.
"I can't describe it too well... Just an icky feeling in the pit of my stomach, like a foreshadowing or something." Amore nuzzles Octavia.
Octavia cuddles Amore closer before a distinct voice in the distance makes Amore's ears twitch and her fur stand on end.
"Amore Sànge Von Scratch! I think it's about time we meet~" Iluzie stands across the way from them.
"Amore, do you know her?" Octavia asks, but gets no answer when Amore stands up.
"The icky feeling... It was you?!" Amore states in surprise, pointing at Iluzie.
"I suppose, I guess you were feeling that because your Vampire twin sister was so close by." Iluzie giggles.
Amore wears a shocked expression as Octavia stands up from the bench.
"Y-you have a twin sister?!" Octavia asks.
"M-mother never told me about this! I didn't know I had a twin sister!" Amore states in disbelief.
"I was at your awakening too, but I guess it took a small while for your Vampire powers to fully come out. However, I notice you're holding back during the Games... I'm disappointed big sister." Iluzie pulls out a miniaturized blue full metal talwar sword before making it full size.
"She has a full metal sword... Amore you don't have to-" Octavia is cut off by Amore's case sliding towards her.
"I do... I need answers and she wants a fight..." Amore kisses Octavia before pulling out her scissor blade.
"Ooh a scissor blade~ Quite an interesting choice of morph." Iluzie comments before spreading a pair of Vampire wings.
Amore spreads her own pair of wings and the two sprint at each other. Upon colliding they send out an initial shock wave before trading slashes in rapid succession. Amore pushes Iluzie back as she attacks with a spinning sideways slash that gets easily blocked.
"You have the skill dear sister, but you are holding yourself back." Iluzie comments.
The azure mare sweep kicks Amore's legs from under her and follows up with a power kick to her stomach. The resulting impact sends Amore rolling across the floor. Using the momentum she manages to rolls to her hooves in order to catch her breath.
"How the buck would you know if I'm holding back or not?! I don't even know who you are!" Amore stands up and sprints at Iluzie.
"My name is Iluzie Von Scratch, Vinyl's second daughter and your twin sister. I've been in more hiding than you, or rather I never went around flaunting my name till the time was right." Iluzie states, with a smile.
"My name has nothing to do with anything! Was I suppose to give up the one thing that kept me sane throughout those years alone? My own family abandoned me with nothing but my name and this sword! By the looks of things you were the favoured one!" Amore states as she sprints back towards Iluzie.
Upon collision Iluzie is impacted by an unexpected two step kick that hits her stomach and chest. Staggered, Amore unleashes a flurry of quick strikes that whittle down what is left of Iluzie's defence. Regaining her posture, Iluzie begins fighting back with her own flurry of strikes that seem to keep pace with Amore's. Standing on the sideline by the bench Octavia looks up to see storm clouds begin to gather and greet them with heavy rain. The pair continue their exchanged flurry of lightning quick slashes and swipes before clashing together in the centre. All around them a dome of sliced raindrops fall around them as they stare intently into each others eyes.
"Yes, yes! That's it, right there! That burning Vampire passion that fuels your abilities! That's what I wanted to see!" Iluzie states, her eyes turning blood red.
Unbeknownst to Amore, her eyes had already turned blood red during her rant and she could feel everything her 'Vampire passion' was affecting, including her mind. Shaking her head in frustration, Amore's eyes return to normal and they push away from each other. Iluzie growls and charges at Amore, using her strikes to keep her in the defensive.
"Why. Wont. You. Accept. Who. You. Truly. Are?!" Iluzie asks, each word followed by a hard strike.
Amore just barely continues to block the strikes and retain enough energy to launch a counter-offensive in the form of a spin kick to Iluzie's face. The afflicted mare simply growls in response and grips her sword tighter. Using her anger, Iluzie assaults Amore without mercy. Strike after strike, slash after slash. Even when Amore stopped blocking altogether the blows never stopped. Amore's uniform was shredded, cuts all over her body. Iluzie two step kicks Amore's scissor blade out of her hand with the first kick and puts her on the ground with the second.
"If you wont accept who you are by yourself, I'll just have to show you!" Iluzie shouts before grabbing Amore's scissor blade out of the air.
What happened next seemed to go in slow motion for Octavia. Iluzie, the mare who not only moments ago proclaimed to be Amore's twin sister and Vinyl's second daughter, drove the mare's own scissor blade deep inside her chest. The orange mare could only widen her eyes and cough up blood as Octavia practically flew into her vision, wings spread, eyes blood red and slammed her fist with unforeseen force, into the face of Iluzie. The resulting blow twisted her face in pain and sent her flying through the perimeter wall of the academy. Octavia fell down to her knees beside Amore and held her close.
"You better not be dying you selfish mare! I took the day off for you so we could figure out what was wrong with you. If you can't have the common decency to remain alive and see it through to the end..." Octavia found her faux anger quickly diminish at the sight before her.
Amore said nothing back. She could only look at Octavia's face over and over, unsure of what it was she was feeling. Unsure how to process what had happened to her. Before she had the chance, Amore was forced to close her eyes and submit to the growing feeling within her body. The rain did not recant or give up its endless downpour. Octavia could hear hoof steps coming towards her position, but she simply didn't care who it was. That is, till they spoke.
"Octy... I'm very sorry that this incident happened..." Octavia looks up to see Vinyl.
"You... They are both your daughters! How in the bloody name of Equestria did this happen?!" Octavia shouts at Vinyl, which makes her flinch.
"I... I'm shit at this to be honest... I didn't know what to do when I found out I was pregnant. I mean, their 'father' had just declared war on the whole of the supernatural world. What the fuck was I supposed to do..? Iluzie found me first... It was a year ago. I should have been more responsible, I should have kept them in the family and raised them how they should have been raised. I mean for fuck sake Octy, you of all ponies should know how quickly things changed..." Vinyl explains as she kneels beside Amore.
"Well, now one has killed the other... I hope you're happy, Vinyl..." Octavia states with disgust.
Vinyl sighs deeply and checks Amore's pulse which makes her smile a little before looking back up at Octavia.
"She isn't dead. Angry as Iluzie was at Amore, I knew she wouldn't kill her only twin sister. The blow dealt by Iluzie seems to have missed anything vital, which is lucky. Amore's vampiric healing should have dealt with this by now... I don't know why she appears to be dead, her pulse is extremely faint... You should take her to the infirmary and see how she goes. I suppose I should start to learn about discipline... It's no secret Iluzie needs it after this." Vinyl explains before standing up and walking towards Iluzie's last known location.
Octavia picks Amore up, the scissor still in her chest, and carries her to the infirmary with haste.
An hour or so later and everyone was gathered in the Supernatural Games arena where they have activated the dome roof for weather such as this.
"We're sorry for the delay folks, we didn't expect it to rain this hard. Now that the dome is up we can resume the Supernatural Games' Quarter Finals." Sandstone Mike addresses the crowd.
"Quite, it's now time for the next match of the day. This will see the beloved Grand Couturier Silver Stitch face up against the Dragon Quad team." Silver Vase explains.
Meanwhile across the arena in the student council area Amethyst Star sits down as Fancy Pants walks over to her.
"Excuse me Amethyst Stare, but I was hoping you could tell me where Octavia is? She hasn't shown up today which is most unlike her. Surely she understands how important the Games are to both academies?" Fancy Pants crosses his arms.
"Lady Octavia is currently indisposed and will be busy for the day. Something urgent came up that requires her utmost attention." Amethyst Star explains.
"Nonsense, what could be more important than the Games? I shall have words with her after this match." Fancy Pants states before walking off.
"That wouldn't be wise... Oh bother... Night Glider, we are going to need damage control after this and maybe an emergency team..." Amethyst Star rubs her forehead.
"What makes you say that? She is just spending time with Amore, right?" Night Glider asks.
Amethyst Star leans over and whispers something in Night Glider's ear making her eyes widen and fists clench on her skirt.
"You understand now? I'm also sorry to have kept this from you, but the order came from Octavia herself. She knows how you feel towards Amore and knew you'd also skip this match. That's why it's important you don't run off now and make a scene." Amethyst Star places her hand on Night Glider's shoulder.
"I know... Octavia always does what she feels is best... I just hope Silver Stitch finishes this match quickly." Night Glider sighs heavily.
On the arena floor four dragon Crystal Prep students can be seen waving to the crowd. Silver Stitch walks slowly towards them, her posture and demeanour different from normal. On her hips are two grey sowing kits and she wears a pair of black gloves that have silver needles threaded into them.
"Well, look who it is boys. The ever famous Silver Stitch." The first dragon states.
He has ice blue scales with white accented parts and ice blue eyes.
"Don't mind our brother Cryo, he is the youngest. My name is Hydro." Hydro introduces them.
Hydro has water blue scales and eyes with light blue accented parts.
"Hydro happens to be the third youngest. I am the second youngest, Zephyr." Zephyr states.
Zephyr has leaf green scales and eyes with light yellow accented parts.
"I'm the oldest of our four brothers. The name is Pyro." Pyro proudly states.
Pyro has fire red scales and eyes with black accented parts.
Silver Stitch rolls her eyes and taps her hoof impatiently. "Yes, yes... I'm Silver Stitch. It's most unfortunate for you boys, but you have caught me in a very foul mood. I hope to end this swiftly..."
The four dragons laugh as Silver Vase sounds the bell to start the round.
"Let's start things off with a little heat!" Pyro exclaims as he charges Silver Stitch.
Silver Stitch spins and throws her cases away from her to either side allowing them to stop at either edge of the arena and stick in place using spikes. Smirking as Pyro closes in he attempts a right hand punch, which is blocked by Silver Stitch's arm and followed up by a left hand counter attack. Stepping back slightly, Pyro aims a high kick at the mare, but is blocked by her own leg and followed up with a round house kick to his face which makes him reel backwards growling.
"It seems this fashionista knows hand to hand combat folks!" Silver Vase exclaims excitedly.
Cryo flies up behind his brothers and launches his ice breath several times at Silver Stitch. The mare sprints from the spot and slides underneath Pyro's legs before jumping off the shoulders of Zephyr and Hydro, giving a whistle to her cases. Upon response one of the cases sends a reel of thread towards Silver Stitch, which she attaches to her belt and unfurls an amount mid air. She then quickly ties it to a needle and throws it to wrap around Cryo's leg. Landing on the ground she gives it several tugs making him drop each time before giving it a big tug and uses her momentum to spin Cryo around. Letting him go and cutting the thread from her reel. He then smashes into Pyro and takes them both to the ground.
"I told you boys... I am in the most foul mood." Silver Stitch states, brushing her hair out of her face.
Hydro and Zephyr look at each other and decide to assault Silver Stitch together. The mare in question meets their attacks head on deflecting, blocking and countering with her own well placed punches and kicks while also using her thread to gain the advantage. The trio jump away from each other so the dragon brothers can renew their attacks with a more elemental approach using their dragon breath attacks to try and gain the upper hand. Silver Stitch flexes her wrists as she uses tremendous amounts of thread to confuse and constrict the pair during their new fight. Pyro and Cryo managed to get up and join their two brothers in the attack. Using a different toned whistle Silver Stitch called a spool of thin ribbon from the opposite case from before. Just like the thread she attaches it to her belt and begins using it to fight, whip and repel the four dragon brothers. The entire crowd are on the edge of their seats as they watch, surprised that their favourite fashion designer is not only holding her own against four teenage dragons, but beating them back with unrelenting determination.
"I don't think I can fully believe what I am seeing here and I'm watching every second!" Sandstone Mike states excitedly.
Silver Stitch wraps some ribbon around Cryo's arm and pulls it past her so she can uppercut him hard, putting him on the floor and out of the fight. Ducking under a kick from Zephyr, Silver Stitch wraps some thread around his leg and spin kicks him hard so he goes rolling across the floor, his whole body getting wrapped up in thread. When enough has tangled him, she cuts the thread and turns just in time to lean backwards as a punch from Pyro is narrowly avoided. Using a light green aura to tie some ribbon to Pyro's wrist she continues the fight before having all four of his limbs tied. Using Pixie magic on four needles she makes them grow and sticks 'em in the ground. Adding Hydro to her combat, she manages to restrain Pyro to the four enlarged needles that are stuck in the ground. Frustrated, Pyro tries to use his fire breath on the ribbon, but finds that beyond darkening it nothing happens. It doesn't take long for Silver Stitch to put down and immobilize the final brother using needles and acupuncture points to win. Standing up and fixing her hair she begins walking to the exit after looking up at the commentators box.
"I... I don't believe it folks, but... Silver Stitch is our undeniable winner of this Supernatural Games' Quarter-Finals match!" Silver Vase declares as the audience erupts into cheering.
"I gotta tell ya Vase, that was by far the most exciting fight I have seen thus far!" Sandstone Mike exclaims.
As the commentators sing praises and the dragons attempt to release themselves, Silver Stitch rejoins her team and they all begin to head towards the infirmary.
Octavia sighs deeply as she stares at Amore, who is lying on the infirmary bed still in her near death state. Voices can be heard from down the hall before the doors suddenly open and Fancy Pants walks in looking furious with a cringing Amethyst Star right behind him.
"I deeply apologise for this intrusion Lady Von Melody!" Amethyst Star states rapidly.
"Nonsense, what possible reason could you have for missing one of the single most important events in our-" Fancy is cut off by Octavia.
"I will politely request that you refrain from continuing that line of dialogue for your own safety." Octavia states quietly.
"How dare you interrupt me while I scold-" Fancy Pants is cut off again.
Octavia's eyes become blood red and she spreads her wings to intimidate Fancy Pants into closing his mouth.
"I WILL END YOUR PATHETIC FUCKING EXISTENCE IF YOU DO NOT SHUT YOUR FILTHY LITTLE MOUTH THIS INSTANCE!" Octavia bellows out, making Fancy Pants swallow hard.
Fancy Pants begins to say something then shuts his mouth again and thinks before Octavia makes her eyes normal and retracts her wings.
"You disgust me Fancy Pants... Amore is lying here in an infirmary bed with her own sword through her chest. All you can think about is how I missed one day during the Supernatural Games in comparison to me taking care of my marefriend... How can you be so selfish and short sighted?" Octavia states before looking back at Amore.
Fancy Pants seems baffled for a moment before promptly leaving the infirmary and Amethyst Star follows him, constantly mouthing countless apologies to Octavia. Night Glider plops down on a chair opposite Octavia and can't help but stare at the sight before her.
"Is she going to be alright?" Night Glider asks.
"I hope so... We don't know anything at this point... All I know is that I refuse to leave her side for anything. I know what you are about to say and if I didn't need you at the Games in my stead I would allow you to sit here with her, too. However... I need to ask you this one favour. Please attend the Supernatural Games in my stead... I promise you'll be the first to know if anything changes or she wakes up." Octavia looks at Night Glider with pleading eyes.
"I know you wouldn't ask this of me if you really believed it wasn't needed... I'll do it. Amore is tough and has been through worse... I just hope she wakes up in time to defend her team at the Supernatural Games' finals." Night Glider states, before standing up and leaving.
Octavia holds Amore's hand tightly and she stares at the helpless mare before her, unable to stop a tear from forming in the corner of her eye.
Author's Note
The Quarter-Finals are done at last. Now onto the Semi-Finals and the building crescendo!
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Selene is fiercely beating a punching bag while Midnight Allure is napping on a nearby bench. Rein is in her uniform, now complete with a hat bearing the same insignia as her arm patch. She is sharpening a set of throwing knives. On another bench is Aries, lifting a rather large pair of weights with ease.
"You seem agitated this morning, Selene." Aries comments.
Selene ignores her and continues assaulting the punching bag with greater force.
"It must be to do with Amore. She wasn't able to sleep much last night after the news got out about her severe injury." Rein adds, flipping a knife in her hand.
Selene performs a spin kick that makes the punching bag fly off its stand and land against the wall, spilling its contents all over the floor. Grabbing a towel from the nearby rack she growls before leaving the room and slamming the door.
"That would be a yes... She doesn't want to admit it given what has happened, but she still cares greatly for Amore. It hurts her to see her in that state, despite how she left our academy." Midnight Allure opens her eyes and sighs deeply.
Aries drops the lifting bar behind her making the floor crack hard upon impact. She sits up and uses a towel to wipe what little sweat was on her face.
"Those two always had trouble expressing things with words... I guess it's what made them such an inspiring couple to watch. They let their actions do the talking. You and Selene are a good couple too, but in a different way to how she and Amore was." Aries stands up and stretches.
"I know... I try my best for her since I was the one who confessed. I don't plan to dwell on it; Amore is too stubborn to die." Midnight Allure states.
"Speaking of stubborn mares... Has anyone seen Lime Beat and Sour Canary?" Rein asks, looking around.
"I vaguely remember some disturbance in the canteen this morning to do with them two and the sisters from Amore's team." Aries states as she begins some form of squat thrusts.
"Freuden..." Rein rolls her eyes and lays her knives in a black case.
"-Repent, you motherfuckers!" Scarlet Orange and Aqua Streak end their chant, standing on the right side of the cafeteria.
Opposite the twin sisters are a pair of mares who wear Crystal Prep uniforms and smug grins. The left mare has a light blue coat, mid green, slightly rough mane and tail with light green highlights and light green eyes. She wields a pair of dual modified pistols with engravings on the outer sides of their slides. 'Luce and Ombra' , likely the names of the pistols are among the engravings. The right mare has a mid tone yellow coat, dark pink mane, and tail with indigo highlights, her mane is up in a ponytail. Her purple eyes are mischievous but confident. She wields a steel scythe in her right hand attached to a chain whose handle is in her left hand.
"My name is Lime Beat-" The left mare begins introductions.
"-and I'm Sour Canary." The right mare finishes.
The pair pushes away from each other as they begin to fight with Scarlet Orange and Aqua Streak. Sour Canary closes in on Aqua Streak and attempts to wound her using the scythe from a distance. Every time it gets deflected off Aqua Streak's katanas, Sour Canary makes it fly back towards her with a flick of her chain. Eventually, Aqua Streak closes the gap and engages Sour Canary in close combat. The pair trade blows repeatedly, finding middle ground is as far as they can push each other. The clashing of chain and sickle on katana echoed throughout the cafeteria, but most of the audience had their eyes fixed on Lime Beat and Scarlet Orange who were just as equally matched. The two girls remained at a regular distance as they traded bullet for bullet. During the course of their close combat encounters, they dodged and deflected bullets like a haze of movements and sways that moved in time with one another. Several magazines later and Scarlet Orange is getting frustrated.
"How many magazines are you hiding up your skirt?!" Scarlet Orange asks, dropping down to side swipe Lime Beat who backflips away.
"Wouldn't you like to know." Lime Beat states as she reloads mid-air.
Upon landing the two resume their ballad of bullets, neither mare letting up. On the other side of the cafeteria, Aqua Streak was able to get in close to Sour Canary putting her on the defensive.
"All this over some desert?~" Sour Canary teases.
"I will skull fuck you for that!" Aqua Streak states, putting more force into her attacks.
"Such a delightful mouth~ I will hold you to that!" Sour Canary states with a sly grin.
"ENOUGH!" The suddenly bellowed voice makes the four mares stop instantly.
From the entrance of the cafeteria, Princess Luna can be seen walking towards them. The four share an even more grave expression between them.
"I chose to step away from my meeting for a moment and I see this sight... I do hope this was a friendly bout, though I have to question the motive." Princess Luna folds her arms.
"Pudding..." Aqua Streak admits.
Princess Luna raises an eyebrow before sighing deeply.
"Sometimes I wonder if this academy ever changes. While not the principle anymore, I am still Princess of the Night. I'd get moving before Flutterbat gets here; no doubt she heard me." Princess Luna smiles a little as the four scamper off and finds herself indulging a memory before leaving herself.
"Where am I?" Amore asks herself, looking around at the vast black emptiness she stands in.
"Where do you believe you are?" A cold monotone voice asks.
"I remember fighting a mare... Iluzie, my twin sister apparently." Amore sighs.
"What about after?" The voice asks.
"Getting stabbed! That's it! I was stabbed with my own damn sword... So, am I dead?" Amore asks, looking behind her to suddenly see a hooded pony in her face.
"Indeed." The pony replies, before snapping their fingers.
The whole area around them becomes a frozen wasteland with nothing for miles, but snow and ice with chilling winds that Amore cannot feel.
"You are kidding me right?! I can't be dead! That'd be so lame..." Amore folds her arms and sighs.
"It would, indeed... If you were truly dead." The hooded figure snaps their fingers again.
The area around them changes to a sitting room in a castle. The chilling landscape still outside. In front of them are a soft rug, warm fireplace, two chairs and a table between them. Amore looks around in surprise before coming back to the pony who has taken off their cloak.
"Princess Luna?! What is this all about?!" Amore asks, looking very annoyed.
"I haven't seen you in a while, so I thought I'd play with you a little bit." Princess Luna smiles, before sitting down.
"That was a dirty prank..." Amore sits down in the opposite chair. "So, where exactly are we?"
"Your subconscious. To be more precise, you are asleep in some form of coma." Princess Luna spawns a tray of tea and biscuits for them on the table.
"So... I can't wake up?" Amore asks.
"You can." Princess Luna replies.
"Then why am I still asleep?" Amore asks, with a confused expression.
"Your healing abilities are well within the range needed for such fatal wounds. It is 'you' who is preventing yourself from waking up. Thus, we are here." Princess Luna states.
"What the heck does that mean?" Amore rubs her forehead.
"What is time?" Princess Luna sips some tea.
"Time is a component quantity of various measurements used to sequence events, to compare the duration of events or the intervals between them, and to quantify rates of change of quantities in material reality or in the conscious experience." Amore answers, while looking at a phone in her hand.
"Did you just?" Princess Luna raises an eyebrow.
"What? I read it on the internet once. If this is my mind, surely searching through information that I have seen before isn't much of a surprise." Amore replies innocently.
"I've never seen somepony 'Google' something while within their own subconscious... You are an odd mare Amore, but yes, That is exactly what time is. So, if two mares had the exact same conversation at two different points in time... Is the result the same or is the conversation even possible?" Princess Luna asks.
"Surely if they had that conversation they wouldn't need to have it again, right?" Amore asks, putting her phone away.
"True. So, would they?" Princess Luna sips her tea.
"Well... No, it'd be stupid to tell somepony something they already know." Amore answers bluntly.
"I thought the same thing once. Either way, the answer to 'your' question lies in here." Princess Luna states as she points at Amore's heart.
The mare in question looks down confused before looking up again to find Princess Luna gone. Sighing deeply Amore stands up and stretches.
"Guess I better look around..." Amore muses before leaving the room she is in.
Princess Luna sits on the chandelier and sips her tea before smiling.
"Such innocent raw potential. Let us hope you find what it is you seek before the end." Princess Luna states.
The arena is in full swing with the crowd eagerly cheering and the commentators announcing the next line up. Amore's team is standing by the monitor in the main waiting lobby outside their rooms. Veronica looks around before stopping on Scarlet Orange, who was walking over.
"Where have you been? You and Aqua are to take this next match... Where is she?" Veronica asks, looking unamused.
"To put it bluntly, my sister is in our room sulking into her favourite pillow." Scarlet Orange sighs deeply.
"Seriously? How can she sulk at a time like this?" Tranquil Wind asks, rubbing her forehead.
"It's Aqua Streak, that's how..." Scarlet Orange replies bluntly.
"Shit... We could send Tranquil Wind out..." Veronica ponders their next move.
Moonlit Dusk closes her grimoire and stands up to stretch before starting to walk out towards the arena. She is wearing a white t-shirt, open blue hoodie, jeans and trainers. A great contrast to her lab coat attire from before. As she strolls out onto the arena floor the crowd hushes as the opposite team turns her way.
"It seems that Bloody Love has selected their fighters to participate in this match." Silver Vase observes.
"It would appear they have sent Moonlit Dusk out to face the 28 Pegasus Ronin from Crystal Prep's kendo club." Sandstone mike adds.
Moonlit Dusk stops a little way from the 28 various coloured male and female Pegasi. She puts her hands in the pockets of her hoodie and smiles.
"I don't care how many of you there are... My name is Moonlit Dusk, descendent of the Undead Pirate Princess Lula Bloodmoon. Unfortunately for you, I'm not in such a good mood..." Moonlit Dusk states.
The opposite team all look at each other in disbelief of their opponents words. The leader chuckles and steps forwards. He has a dull red coat, lightning yellow mane and tail with hazel eyes.
"My name is Red Streak, I lead the 28 Pegasus Ronin. You won't find us so easy to face given there is only one of you." Red Streak states preparing his katana.
A creepy smile sneaks across Moonlit Dusk's muzzle as she closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. The commentators ring the bell to start the match, making the 28 Pegasi draw their katanas.
"It's a beautiful day outside. Birds are singing, flowers are blooming. On days like this, ponies like you... Should be burning in hell." Moonlit Dusk opens her eyes, the left eye now glowing.
Four of the Ronin charge forth past Red Streak and slash at Moonlit Dusk from different angles. Sliding past each failed attempt, the mare keeps smiling and uses one hand to swipe across the four Ronin. A large, long spectral bone is spawned from nowhere and smacks the Ronin down. Getting back up they charge again but get the same result as each one is knocked out by the bone. Chuckling, Moonlit Dusk flips the bone using her magic and tilts her head at Red Streak.
"Not bad... However, we are still twenty-four strong. Again!" Red Streak demands as four more Ronin step forward.
Moonlit Dusk holds her arms out, hands spread as two large spectral dragon skulls rise up either side of her. They open their mouths and fire two concentrated beams of energy at the four Ronin, putting them down easily. Raising her hand up, the two skulls begin to spin and take their place at the edge of the arena. Two more skulls rise up to cover the edges the previous two cannot.
"Now you're twenty... Still no much stronger than the last two times. I'm not in the mood to drag this out so, I'm going to make this quick." Moonlit Dusk lowers her hand, before bringing it up suddenly.
A horde of crooked and straight spectral bones spring forth from the arena ground, skewering the remaining nineteen Ronin. The four dragon skulls open fire on the trapped Ronin making sure to finish them off before the bones disappear back into the ground. Red Streak charges at Moonlit Dusk but finds himself being hit by an unknown force. After several hard hits, Moonlit Dusk floats a bone in front of her and chuckles.
"You lose." Moonlit Dusk states as she sends the bone through Red Streak, finishing him and his team.
Moonlit Dusk puts her hands in her pockets as she begins to walk away. The skulls and bones vanish slowly and the crowd remains silent until Moonlit Dusk leaves the arena. As soon as she disappears from view, the crowd enters into a cheering frenzy.
Moonlit Dusk cuddles her bottle of cherry flavoured vodka as she and the rest of team 'Bloody Love' are sitting at a corner table in Valentine's bar. Aqua Streak sighs deeply and frowns.
"Sorry I wasn't there..." Aqua Streak states, hanging her head.
"While we won this time, I don't suspect us to be so fortunate in the future... Granted, without Amore, this is a little more difficult than I would have expected." Veronica states in reply.
"I thought you were used to supervising a team during your time in the Order's Hooviet Union Division?" Scarlet Orange comments.
"I am, yes... However, this situation is very different for me. You all are not a simple group of Hooviet supernatural hunters I can order around, you're... My friends and stuff..." Veronica states, before blushing slightly as she looks at Derpy who gives her a smile and a kiss on the cheek.
"I can't argue with that, but we need to formulate a plan if we want to win... Both us and Selene's team made it through..." Tranquil Wind informs them.
"The finals of the Supernatural Games have always been a one on one elimination battle. That is according to my mother, at least." Silver Stitch states, sipping her cocktail.
Veronica takes a heavy swallow of her vodka before taking a moment to speak.
"That might work in our favour if we can manage to win enough battles that Selene won't be included... If we can't then we will lose. We have five, they have six and Amore is..." Veronica slumps down in her chair at mentioning Amore.
"She will make it... She has to, it's Amore for Celestia's sake." Aqua Streak states with confidence.
"You make it sound like she is untouchable." Tranquil Wind comments.
"No... Aqua is right." The group turns to Veronica. "I think if anypony here knows what that mare is capable of, it's Aqua and Scarlet. I mean just look at her team." Veronica holds out her arms to emphasize the group. "At one point we three stood on the opposite sides of the playing field. I'm a former Hooviet Union Order member, Aqua and Scarlet are former Order members... Now we are on the same team as a Werewolf/Pixie hybrid and a Necromancer. We are her chess pieces, brought together for different reasons." Veronica states drinking more vodka.
"While I'd like to reason that this speech comes from the amount of vodka she has consumed... I'm afraid she is not wrong, darlings." Silver Stitch begins, as she finishes her cocktail. "I can admit my being here is purely down to curiosity. Amore is an interesting individual, even when it comes to this academy."
"I'm here because she asked for my help, but I can confess she has a compelling presence." Tranquil Wind states.
"Scarlet and I are here because we're friends with Amore, even after what we tried to do..." Aqua Streak hangs her head again, but is comforted by a smile from Scarlet Orange.
"Even after we fought, me trying to kill her and tracking her down to this academy... She wanted to help me and asked for me to be enrolled here. I don't and can't understand how she thinks or works, but..." Veronica struggles to find the words to finish her statement.
"That's what makes Amore who she is. What makes her so loved. You're all here because you love Amore in whatever sense of the word for whatever reason you may have. She, in turn, picked all of you for her team because she trusts in your abilities." Derpy smiles.
The group look at each other and find it very difficult to argue with such an honest view.
"I guess this means we need to uphold her faith?" Moonlit Dusk asks meekly from behind her bottle.
"Yeah, that's what it means." Tranquil Wind assures Moonlit Dusk, placing her hand on the mare's shoulder gently.
Author's Note
Been a while... Sorry. Life has been busy and my proofreader, who got his wi-fi back has been delayed too. But I hope to be somewhat back on track for the most part, however, I am not sure how often chapters will be out but they will be out at some point. I hope you guys continue to enjoy the fic regardless and help support it.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
When Brawn isn't Enough...
The halls of the castle seemed ever-winding as Amore explored further. So far, this area of her mind just confused her as she tried harder and harder to make sense of it all. Finally giving up and coming to an old oak door, Amore opens it to explore the room within. Her expression at its contents only increased her frustration.
"What are you doing back in here?" Amore asks, folding her arms.
On a table covered in books sits Serenity. She is amusing herself by flicking through a grimoire before turning her attention to Amore.
"I'm stuck in your chest, where else would I be? Your memories make an interesting read since I've been in your scissor blade." Serenity comments as she closes the book and places it beside her.
"Maybe that was my mistake all along..." Amore mutters as she starts to look around.
"It was..." Serenity stands up.
Amore turns to Serenity with a confused look. "Letting you live was a mistake?"
"You don't get it... Before when you drank the last required blood intake, there was only ever two entities present. That Octavia was a product of your subconscious to help you deal with the situation. That 'other' Amore was a fake normal version conjured by yourself as you believed to be different from how you used to be. In reality, only you and I existed in that meeting. The problem is that it is still 'you and me', rather than just 'you'. We are two sides of the same coin, the same pony. The fact that I am still here means that 'we' are half of what we could be." Serenity explains before sighing deeply.
"Basically the answer to my question literally lies in here..." Amore touches her chest.
"We cannot keep existing at the same time. You need to come to terms with what we are and what we are capable of." Serenity states.
"What is that suppose to mean? 'What we are capable of'?" Amore asks.
"You never cared before how hard you pushed yourself or how much strength you used. Since becoming a full vampire, you have purposefully limited yourself and what you can do. However, all this will accomplish is getting our loved ones hurt." Serenity frowns.
"What is the point of protecting them if I can't control myself? You know how much I lose myself out there... I didn't care before, but now..." Amore sighs.
"If you're so afraid of losing control, then find a way to gain control. I'm going to look around and leave you to think for a bit... Do try not to hurt yourself." Serenity comments as she leaves the room.
Amore paces around for a few seconds rubbing her neck and groaning before finally kicking over the table in frustration.
"Fuck... Why does everything have to seem so damn complex... Or am I really so dense?" Amore asks herself, before ruffling her own hair and groaning in annoyance.
The arena air buzzed with anticipation as students, teachers and guests from both academies got settled into their seats. The announcers prepared themselves in the booth to direct what was shaping up to be one very exciting Supernatural Games.
"Welcome everypony to the one on one elimination finals of the Supernatural Games fighting sector!" Silver Vase announces which causes the audience to roar into a cheer.
"That's right Vase, and as per usual the other sectors have finished in order to watch this exciting lineup." Sandstone Mike continues.
"It's also at this time we show the total rally for the Supernatural Games so far. It would seem that the cooking sector fell victim to the masterful baking skills of Sugar Belle's cooking club." Silver Vase informs them.
"That's true for this year Vase, it seems that Sugar Belle has trained her club very well. However, the same can also be said for Crystal Preps science and magic clubs as they absolutely dominated during their sector." Sandstone Mike adds.
"Which brings us to our totals for the current state of the games. Armonia academy sits at 600 points." Silver Vase makes a digital scoreboard appear above the arena.
The Armonia side of the arena lights up in a loud cheer.
"However, Crystal Prep is ahead with 700 points, with a grand total of 1,000 points being able to be awarded per sector." Sandstone Mike states, adding the Crystal Prep score.
Crystal Prep's side of the arena lets out a loud cheer at their higher score.
"As normal, the majority of the games hinders on the outcome of the fighting sector and who stands victorious when the dust settles." Silver Vase states, making the crowd roar together into another loud cheer.
Veronica and the rest of team Bloody Love are sitting in the waiting area, watching the big screen as the announcers do their bit.
"Do you think it's randomly selected or?" Aqua Streak asks, taking deep breaths.
"I believe so... Least that's what Octavia said." Veronica replies, juggling one of her throwing knives.
"Where are Selene and her team?" Scarlet Orange asks.
"On the other side of the arena preparing for their matches. When it comes to the finals they have both teams on opposite waiting lounges in the arena. It's so they can do dramatic entrances and stuff to emphasize the finals." Silver Stitch informs them.
"They also give the fighters 10 minutes to prepare themselves for the fight. Whoever is fighting next will show up on this screen at that time so we know who has to go out." Tranquil Wind adds.
Scarlet Orange points to the screen. "You mean like that?"
The group turn to the screen and see two large cards appear with a giant 'V.S' in the middle. The cards flip over to show Tranquil Wind and Aries.
"Yeah, exactly like- Son of a bitch!" Tranquil Wind groans and slaps her face.
"Well, looks like you're up darling. Do break a leg... Preferably hers." Silver Stitch smiles and kisses Tranquil Wind's cheek.
Tranquil Wind groans in response and reluctantly heads back to their preparation room.
The arena is united in clapping and cheering as they await the first match up. The ceiling suddenly begins to close and the lights come on one by one to illuminate the fighting area. As soon as the ceiling shuts entirely, the announcers can be heard.
"Welcome, ladies and gentlecolts to the first match of the finals!" Silver Vase states, eliciting a cheer from the crowd.
"Y'all know how this work so we're going to get right down to it!" Sandstone Mike adds.
The lights flash all around the arena and some fireworks are let off into the air above them.
"The first match is between two hard hitting mares, that pack equal power behind their fists. Born and raised mostly in Cloudsdale by her parents, Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle. Sitting at the top of her class, this mare climbed up the academic ladder almost as fast as Twilight did. It gives me immense pleasure to introduce the Armonia Academy's Book Club president... Tranquil Wind!" Silver Vase states before a track is played across the arena.
Fireworks and lights flash all over the combat area as Tranquil Wind slowly steps out of the waiting lobby gate. She wears a pair of black shorts, a slightly tight white top and a pair of purple fingerless gloves. Starting with a run up she leaps from the waiting lobby entrance to land on her starting position a fair distance away. Slamming her fists together, she lets out a challenging roar which could only come from a Lycan. The music died down so the announcers can introduce her opponent.
"Stepping out to face our athletic bookworm is the daughter of Crystal Prep's very own Principal Nike and her husband Bulk Biceps. It gives me equal pleasure to introduce Crystal Prep's head of the Disciplinary Committee... Aries!" Sandstone Mike states as another track is played.
More fireworks and flashing lights are used to signal Aries' entrance into the arena from her team's lobby. She wears dull gold shorts, a dull gold shirt that stops above her belly, a brown open jacket that is a little longer than her shirt, and a pair of gold fingerless gloves. Aries slowly walks to her starting position before the music stops.
"I didn't expect to be fighting so soon." Aries states, looking around.
"Well, neither did I, but here we are. I plan to make the most of it." Tranquil Wind states, stretching.
Aries smiles and cracks her knuckles. "As do I."
Both girls take rather different fighting stances before Silver Vase lays out the rules.
"The match will continue till either fighter is knocked unconscious or yields. Without further delay, let the match begin!" Silver Vase shouts as he rings a bell and Sandstone Mike flips a disc into the CD player tray.
The mares collide with shear force as they begin passing a flurry of dodges and punches back and forth between each other. Mixing it up a little, Tranquil Wind attempts to throw some kicks into the fight but has her leg grabbed by Aries. Smiling, the mare begins to spin Tranquil Wind around in a circle and throws her across the arena floor. Tranquil Wind comes to a harsh stop using her hands and hooves. Standing up, she loosens her shoulders and clouds her eyes like Selene did. Sprinting off the spot she catches up to Aries in record time in order to throw much faster, harder punches her way. Not quite as fast as the Lycan mare, Aries is able to deflect the blows using her forearms. Chuckling, Aries grabs Tranquil Wind's right arm and twists it behind her back, holding her there tightly.
"Bulk and Nike huh?" Tranquil Wind struggles against Aries.
"Not your ideal couple, I know. Mother tends to bring a sense of direction to father's abilities." Aries states, holding Tranquil Wind's arm tightly.
"So it seems. I hear he does lovely charity work." Tranquil Wind comments.
Aries throws Tranquil Wind away from her with force. Tranquil Wind spins in the air before landing, facing Aries. The rainbow maned mare readies herself in a starting position before sprinting towards Aries, who prepares herself to intercept. Dodging to the side, Tranquil Wind delivers a hard blow to the back of Aries' leg joint, making her lose balance and kneel slightly. Using her momentum, Tranquil Wind circles around Aries so she can sprint back towards her and catch her neck in a tight close line manoeuvre. Not stopping, Tranquil Wind keeps running until she plummets Aries into the arena wall using sheer speed. Taking several steps back, Tranquil Wind pants and waits for the dust to settle.
"You are one tough bitch..." Tranquil Wind pants slightly.
"I'll be honest, I am enjoying this far more than I thought I would." Tranquil Wind can hear Aries state.
"Oh for fuck sake..." Tranquil wind straightens up as the dust settles and Aries is standing up stretching.
"You didn't think this would be over quickly did you? I hope you're ready for part two." Aries states before charging at Tranquil Wind.
Amore opens and walks through a strange door which leads to a plain white landscape where the floor is water. Amore cautiously steps out of the doorway to stand on the water as if it were a solid. Looking around she can't see anything distinctive in the room which confuses her.
"Quite amazing isn't it. What our minds are capable of constructing. What we are capable of thinking." A male voice states to Amore.
Amore turns around to see a hooded stallion wearing an outfit similar to the one Princess Luna wore.
"I suppose so... Who are you?" Amore asks.
"I'm a figment of your imagination who has been manifested to help you through this difficult time. Least, that's what your subconscious believes." The stallion chuckled.
"So, what is this room?" Amore asks as she looks down at her reflection in the water.
"I believe it's meant to show you what is truly blocking your path. Although that still won't help you with how to get through it." The stallion states, appearing beside Amore.
"But all I see is my reflection..." Amore sighs.
"Exactly. The answer is simple yet complex. Even if you know what the problem is, till you understand the problem itself, solving it will be impossible." The stallion gently places his hand on Amore's shoulder.
The contact makes her jerk back up straight and looks around the room, but she cannot see anyone. She then looks back down at the water to see no reflection.
"I'm the problem... I know that much, but how do I fix it... Remind me to bitch slap my sister when I get out of here." Amore sighs deeply before leaving the room and closing the door.
The stallion stands a little way from the door with his hands behind his back. Taking a deep breath, he smiles to himself before vanishing.
Tranquil Wind is forcefully thrown across the arena floor before regaining her balance. Upon getting to her hooves she is punched in the face by Aries who quickly followed her. The two clash fists, sending out a shockwave which cracks the ground below them. Aries gains the upper hand and one-two punches Tranquil Wind to knock her back.
"Where do you get your endurance from?!" Tranquil Wind asks, spitting out some blood.
"That's also one of my father's gifts. Have you had enough, yet?!" Aries asks throwing a punch towards Tranquil Wind.
Tranquil Wind grabs her fist just in time and growls.
"I won't be beaten, yet!" Tranquill Wind exclaims, pulling Aries forward.
After getting her off balance, Tranquill Wind slams her knee into Aries' stomach before kicking her across the floor. Taking several steps
"I'm quite impressed if I'm honest. Not many can keep up with me, but that ends now!" Aries charges at Tranquill Wind.
The rainbow haired mare sizes up her options before settling on one that might be her last shot. Taking a deep breath and pushing her pain aside she prepares herself. Once Aries reaches her, Tranquill Wind uses all her agility and flexibility to duck under the thrown punch, sliding around Aries in a fluent motion, so she can lock her arms around Aries' neck. Tranquill Wind then locks her legs around the mare's stomach and holds on for everything she has. Aries tries with all her might to reach behind her and pull Tranquill Wind off but cannot get the grip. After several seconds Aries falls to her knees before slowing down entirely and falling fully onto the floor. Tranquill Wind lets go and rolls over, panting heavily before raising her fist up into the air making the crowd erupt into a cheer for Armonia.
"That's all she wrote folks!" Sandstone Mike exclaims.
"Tranquill Wind has defeated the Crystal Prep Disciplinary Chair with a chokehold manoeuvre we can only recognise as Rainbow's signature takedown!" Silver Vase explains.
Tranquill Wind nudges Aries a few times, making her groan and stir.
"What happened?" Aries asks, looking at Tranquill Wind.
"I choked you out using my mother's technique. It's a very fluent and graceful motion that ends in a chokehold. You were too tired to effectively get out of it." Tranquill Wind explains.
"I see. I suppose this is your win. I'll expect a rematch at some point, stripes." Aries smiles lightly before rolling over onto her back.
Tranquill Wind stretches her arm out towards Aries, offering her fist. Aries chuckles and presses her own fist to Tranquill Wind's to return the gesture.
Author's Note
Took a while to get proofed, but the start of the finals is here at last. I hope everyone enjoys music filled fights and entrances befitting those competing in the Supernatural Games fighting section.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Tranquil Wind walks back into the waiting lobby for her team and stretches a little before being tackle hugged by Silver Stitch who grips her tightly.
"I was worried for you out there. They say Aries is nothing if not effective at her role as disciplinary chair at Crystal Prep. I'm very proud of you." Silver Stitch nuzzles Tranquil Wind softly.
"That's only one fight... We still have a fair few to go before we can even think about relaxing. Although they only do about two fights per day to make the finals last longer. Depends on the amount in the team, though." Veronica states as she plays with one of her knives.
"Both teams have seven members. So, using that logic it should come out as four days of fighting. Though, that is if we don't win the majority of the fights." Moonlit Dusk explains.
"We cannot let it get to the fourth day... Amore is still out and we can't risk losing by default." Aqua Streak states with a sigh.
"So, we are all in agreement that we cannot let this final go more than three days?" Veronica asks the group.
The group nod and decide to relax in their team lobby while the academy construction club repairs the main arena after the last fight.
Vinyl sighs deeply as she takes a heavy swallow of some whisky before glancing at Iluzie, who is holding her head while pouting.
"Mommy..." Iluzie whimpers.
Vinyl whacks Iluzie over the head with a soft toy mallet which makes her whimper more.
"I don't wanna hear a single complaint outta you... Just sit there and think very hard about what you did wrong." Vinyl sighs, putting down the mallet.
A light chuckle from the bar makes Vinyl look back over the sofa into the V.I.P booth with daggers in her eyes.
"You are such a terrible parent, Vinyl." Fancy Pants walks over to the sofa, holding his own glass.
"Bite me bitch... I haven't had to be a proper mother in a long time..." Vinyl sighs deeply.
"Oh, come now, Vinyl Scratch. One never stops being a parent, no matter the circumstances. You of all ponies should know this." Fancy Pants comments, moving to sit down in the armchair by the sofa.
"You don't even have foals, Fancy. I wouldn't expect you to ever understand." Vinyl finishes her whisky, harshly.
"Vinyl, I've never needed foals of my own... To be quite frank, my dear, yours are enough of a handful." Fancy Pants remarks.
"You'd know better than I would, Fancy... I had to take care of a lot of stuff for Princess Luna back then. Didn't help that 'she' was on a warpath with no interest of backing down or talking." Vinyl rubs her temple.
Fancy Pants raises an eyebrow for a moment before shrugging it off and sighing lightly.
"Well, whatever was before, it seems now they have gotten themselves into quite the pickle." Fancy Pants nervously chuckles.
"So it seems..." Vinyl looks back at Iluzie with daggers before whacking her over the head again, making her whimper.
"Uncle Fancy, please make her stop..." Iluzie pleads, attempting to sway him with puppy dog eyes.
"Sorry Iluzie my dear, but you have overstepped the 'childish' mark this time." Fancy Pants sighs deeply before sipping his gin.
Selene is sitting in the waiting lobby for her team with Midnight Allure curled up asleep on her lap. Reine sits opposite her, sharpening her knife set again before staring at the pair in question.
"One loss already. Though, I'll admit, Tranquil Wind put up an excellent fight against our Aries. I wonder who will be made to fight next. I am personally looking forward to a head to head battle between Veronica and myself~" Reine states excitedly, looking into the reflection on her knife.
"You would be. It's hard to imagine a time when you're not excited for a fight." Selene states, stroking Midnight Allure's mane gently.
"Nein, you do not understand! It's an epic fight of massive proportions. A Nazi mare, an officer no less, to face a Hooviet mare, also an officer." Reine states looking at Selene.
"I still don't see what's so big about it. Now, if the pair were pirate descendants, that'd be cool." Selene chuckles.
"Mein Liebling, you still do not understand. It's the prospect of the fight, while no real political standing is involved. It's the very concept of a fight between the two super powers! It's ficken Geschichte!" Reine leaps up out of her seat excitedly, pointing her knife dramatically in a diagonal fashion into the air.
"You get so excited about the simplest of things, it's cute." Selene sighs deeply.
"Idiot, du verstehst nicht..." Reine sits back down, disappointed.
The TV nearby suddenly comes to life and two more cards appear on the screen.
Sour Canary, Lime Beat and Aries walk into the waiting area just in time to see it.
"Oh~ I wonder who is fighting next." Sour Canary states.
"I hope it's me, I want to crush those twins badly..." Lime Beat comments.
The cards flip over to reveal Silver Stitch and Midnight Allure, making Lime Beat groan in annoyance. Selene gently nuzzles Midnight Allure to make her wake up.
"Hmm... What time is it? Is it lunch, yet?" Midnight Allure yawns softly.
"Not quite, It's your turn to fight, sweetie." Selene states.
"Oh... I'll go get ready then." Midnight Allure playfully stands up and yawns cutely before stretching as she starts heading to the preparation room.
With the arena repaired and everypony refreshed for the second match of the day. The audience is electrified at the thought of what might come next.
"Ladies and gentlecolts! You have waited patiently for the arena to be fixed and your break to be over." Silver Vase begins.
"We are back in the box to tell ya'll that that wait is over!" Sandstone Mike yells excitedly.
The crowd erupt into an eager cheer filled with static and excitement.
"You hear that noise, Mike? sounds like everypony wants much more." Silver Vase chuckles.
"Then let's not keep them waiting! This next match-up will keep you all on the edge of your seats!" Sandstone Mike exclaims.
"Introducing, everypony's favourite fashionista, the mare who gracefully trots in her mother's hoofsteps! Silver Stitch!" Silver Vase states as he flips a switch on their dashboard.
The track begins to play as Silver Stitch walks out into the arena wearing a sleeveless cyan hoodie, a plain grey shirt, black leggings and dull silver gloves. She lacks her previously seen fighting equipment and simply has a pouch on the left side of her belt. Silver Stitch gracefully waves with a nice smile to the audience who cheer and applaud her entrance. As she reaches her position the music stops and the announcers clear their throats to begin the next phase.
"Against our fashionista is the Vice Captain of the Shadowbolts, Midnight Allure!" Silver Vase flips another switch on their dashboard.
A different track is started for Midnight Allure as she walks out into the arena wearing a pair of jeans, a midnight blue shirt, a navy blue leather jacket over the top of it, and a pair of black fingerless gloves. She throws a few jabs into the air directly in front of her as she skips to her starting position. Lightly stretching she finishes her entrance by taking a deep breath. The music slowly fades out as the two stare at each other.
"I saw your last fight; no manoeuvre gear this time around?" Midnight Allure asks, placing a hand on her hip.
"Not this time. While it did work out for the best, that was just an experiment of mine. I'd much rather use the fighting style my parents trained me to use." Silver stitch states as she prepares herself by adjusting her gloves.
The bell rings loudly as yet another track is put on to signal the start of the fight. Midnight Allure opens up the engagement by charging towards Silver Stitch who returns the favour. Once close enough, Silver Stitch jumps up into the air with a two hoof aerial kick which is skillfully blocked by Midnight Allure, before she is pushed away making her land on her hands. Silver Stitch pushes off the ground before coming to rest back on her hooves.
"Not bad, Stitch. I imagine this will be a mash-up of both their techniques? Should be interesting." Midnight Allure loosens her neck and smiles.
"Something like that. A style is nothing without one's own personal touch." Silver Stitch comments as she cartwheels towards Midnight Allure.
Midnight Allure skips backwards a few paces before kicking forwards and ends up blocked by Silver Stitch's own kick the moment she stops cartwheeling. Pushing off each other, Silver Stitch pushes up with a flurry of kick attacks which keep Midnight Allure on the defence till she backs off allowing for a response. Midnight Allure replies with a barrage of one-two punches which are blocked using Silver Stitch's arms and legs. Using the momentum, Midnight Allure tries to perform a roundhouse kick but is put on her ass when countered with a sweep kick from below. Flipping herself up onto her hooves, Midnight Allure cracks her knuckles before charging towards Silver Stitch to attempt a flying punch as she jumps up into the air. Silver Stitch rolls out of the way, but as soon as Midnight Allure lands she kicks Silver Stitch in the face making her recoil a little. While she is recovering, Midnight Allure follows up with two punches to the stomach before finishing with an uppercut to the jaw making Silver Stitch stumble backwards.
"You're not half bad, Stitch." Midnight Allure states as she strafes left and right in front of Silver Stitch.
"Likewise... Granted, I've not really had to fight much growing up, but my parents were insistent that I learn to defend myself." Silver Stitch spits out some blood before taking a deep breath.
"If you're not a fighter, then why are you on their team?" Midnight Allure asks, looking very confused.
"Why is any pony in team Bloody Love? Because we believe, regardless of the odds, in one mare in particular." Silver Stitch chuckles.
Silver Stitch charges Midnight Allure again but this time flips onto her hands to deliver a hail of sharp spin kick attacks which she struggles to block. Using the momentum, she pushes off her hands to slam both her hooves into Midnight Allure's defence. The inflicted mare recoils back before standing her ground and grabbing Silver Stitch's leg, so she can spin her around. Once she has gone around enough times, Midnight Allure throws her into the nearby wall. The crowd sit on the edge of their seats, drowning themselves in anticipation for the next move.
"You are resilient, I'll give you that." Midnight Allure pants slightly.
Silver Stitch pulls herself from the wall to fall onto the ground. She then gets up slowly before shaking herself off and wiping her mouth.
"I have to be... I can't afford to falter for even a second... Not only am I the daughter of two well respected and loved ponies, but I have a marefriend... I'd like to think you understand that there are times where we must be resilient." Silver Stitch begins running at Midnight Allure who braces herself.
Once she reaches Midnight Allure, Silver Stitch flips over above her head before kicking her in the back. Upon turning around, the mare is met with yet more harsh kick attacks in various forms. Her defence almost falters as her arms are beaten by Silver Stitch's precise expert kicks.
"Tranquil Wind is not always like her father... She is not always cool, calm, and collected, she has crazy moments... She doubts herself constantly. She strives to push herself past the limit. My mare encourages me to excel myself, but what do you think happens when she falters? When a mare, such as herself, has doubts? I pick her up, I piece her back together... I'm her rock and Celestia be damned if I'll let her see me falter here!" Silver Stitch yells as she finally breaks through to slam both her hooves into Midnight Allures chest.
Midnight Allure stumbles backwards, holding her chest, and is temporarily brought to one knee.
"I do understand... Try being the marefriend to Selene. I imagine it's a lot like Octavia wth Amore... They are both stubborn and normally do long before they think about something. Which, while it seems annoying, is also one of the things we love about them. So, likewise, I can't and won't be beaten here. I hope you understand that." Midnight Allure stands up slowly.
Midnight Allure clouds her eyes before speeding towards Silver Stitch who smiles. Upon reaching her she is met with a storm of lightning fast punches which pepper her steady defence like needles on paper. Every so often a couple of strikes get through and weaken her overall composure until she cannot take anymore and breaks. Stumbling backwards slightly, Midnight Allure pushes her assault with her punches which continuously hit Silver Stitch's chest and stomach. After several seconds of punches, Midnight backs off to recover her stamina. Silver Stitch breathes heavily, still standing. Growling, Midnight Allure charges forwards to deliver a singular harsh uppercut to Silver Stitch's jaw. The blow takes her off her hooves and onto the floor, both mares heave and pant heavily with exhaustion. A timer appears on the board above the commentator's stand which counts down from ten. The audience swallows hard and actually stand up as they watch the timer count the seconds, the anticipation thick in the air as Silver Stitch stays down till the timer reaches zero.
"Midnight Allure wins!" Silver Vase practically screams from the box.
The entire audience erupts into the loudest cheer yet and applauds the amazing fight they just witnessed. Silver Stitch chuckles as she stays laying on the floor, making Midnight Allure frown.
"Why didn't you get up? You could have taken a lot more than this." Midnight Allure stands up straight.
"Yeah... I could have... Despite how well I was doing, I think I'm good for today..." Silver Stitch rubs her jaw while her breathing returns to normal.
Midnight Allure glances behind her as Tranquil Wind walks past her to reach Silver Stitch. After reaching the downed mare, she gently picks her up before she begins carrying her back to their team lobby.
"Hey, sweetie... How'd I do?" Silver Stitch asks.
"You're such an idiot not using your Pixie magic..." Tranquil Wind states with a sigh.
"I didn't need it... I did my part." Silver Stitch nuzzles Tranquil Wind gently.
"You are amazing... As my dad would say, you're twenty percent cooler." Tranquil Wind returns the nuzzle softly.
"Oh, that was awful." Silver Stitch chuckles through her pain as she holds her side.
Midnight Allure sighs deeply as she watches them before walking back to her own team lobby.
Author's Note
The second match of the finals is here, plus some other development stuff which I hope you guys like. I'll hopefully see you guys on another chapter out soon.
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Violent Scratch and Soothing Melody
The blood red moon hangs high in the sky giving the nearby academy an eerie glow. The path leading to the secluded academy from the Everfree forest was covered in trees and low branches. Leaves carrying autumn colours were spread everywhere in various sized piles across the ground. Walking up the main path toward the academy gates is a bright orange Earth Pony mare wearing blue jeans, a pure white tank top and a blood red leather jacket, which stops at her hips. A slim silver rectangle case rests on her back. Covering her face is a pitch black cloak, which drapes over her shoulders and stops halfway down her legs. Taking one hand out of her jacket pockets, she places a toothpick in her mouth and grows a wide playful smile.
Meanwhile, walking down a corridor on the third floor of the academy is a goldish grey mare with a dark grey mane and tail that has lighter streaks within. Her eyes are a greyish mulberry. The mare wears a female black school blazer, a medium length black skirt and pitch black tights. Her uniform has crimson trim to accompany the black. Around her neck is a crimson bow-tie with a pitch black strap. The mare walks up to a door with a plaque saying 'Principal Flutterbat' and knocks a few times.
"Octavia? Please come in." A gentle but stern voice replies from the other side of the door.
Octavia enters the office and closes the door before standing in front of the principal's desk. Behind the desk sitting on a swivel chair is a Pegasus mare with a light greyish gold coat, her mane and tail are a light greyish rose and her eyes are a brilliant amaranth. The Pegasus' wings are bat-like instead of the normal feathers.
"You wanted to see me, Principal Flutterbat?" Octavia asks looking puzzled at her summons.
Flutterbat turns to face Octavia and nods. "It seems we have a new student today... She herself doesn't know it yet, but I feel she will be an interesting addition to our society. I've already filled out her entrance form and relative paperwork... If it's not too much trouble I'd like you to look after them during their initial time here." Flutterbat finishes as an explosion is heard in the distance by the academy entrance.
"What in the name of Celestia was that?" Octavia asks looking over the new student's paperwork.
"I do believe that is our newest addition... Do be a dear and go say hello. She is your responsibility as the student council president, after all." Flutterbat smirks as she turns to the window.
"You're kidding... Reading this she sounds so... Unruly, uneducated, boisterous... Hardly a fitting match, wouldn't you say?" Octavia puts down the paperwork and sighs.
"Remind you of a particular vampire who once graced our halls? Go have some fun. It's been too long since you had a good reason to let loose." Flutterbat playfully comments to a frustrated Octavia.
"If I must... I hardly see why this mare can't be handled by another student council member, but, if nought else, it will provide entertainment." Octavia leaves the room and heads in the direction of the explosion.
In the courtyard of the academy, many wounded vampire and normal ponies lie scattered across the ground. The bright orange mare from before stands in the middle of the courtyard spinning an odd looking sword around her hand.
"Seriously, none of you academy punks have enough juice to face me for real? Bunch of half assed losers." The mare states arrogantly and chews her toothpick.
"Must you be so rowdy..? I heard you all the way from the principal's office... I finally make it over here to find this large, disappointing mess..." Octavia states as she lands in the courtyard and looks around at all the defeated students. Her vampire wings recede into her back.
"Holy bucking shit. You might just be the most uptight bitch I've ever seen in my entire bucking life. So, I wager from the pussy expressions this lot just gave as you elegantly strolled on stage..." The mare points her fully blood red metal sword at Octavia. "You're one of the big guns around this academy shit pit?"
Octavia looks around her and sighs deeply. "Such vulgar language... You have not only disrespected me and my fellow students... But you have tarnished this academy's honour..." Octavia wears a displeased look upon her face which makes many nearby students move away despite their injuries.
"That's great and all, but I truly don't give a shit... Are we going to throw down or not?" The mare asks throwing off her cloak revealing the Earth Pony mare has a pitch black mane and tail with blood red highlights. Her eyes are a mysterious soothing aquamarine.
"Tell me your name and I will tell you mine... I should at least know what to carve on your gravestone when I put you in your place." Octavia's calm voice is replaced by a harsh, irritated tone.
The mare spins her longsword around her hand and points it at Octavia boldly. "My name is Amore Sânge Von Scratch and you're about to become another notch in my well earned belt!" Amore proclaims readying herself in a familiar battle stance Octavia has seen before.
Octavia inspects the mare up and down taking in everything about her. Her stance, how she carries herself, her... Vulgar language, that dreadful mane style combined with those odd colours. There was no doubt in her mind who Amore reminded her of. "Very well then. My name is Octavia Von Melody and as the student council president, I challenge you, Amore Sânge Von Scratch, to a duel in the old ways of engagement."
Octavia is approached by three male Earth Pony students all wearing the same style uniform as her in the same colours, but with pitch black trousers. They each hold a different melee weapon. The first offered to Octavia a pair of Katar daggers which have vampiric engravings on the blades and gilded hilts. The second held out a far eastern Equestrian styled katana for Octavia. The sheath is pitch black with red thread around the top to fasten it to a belt. The handle of the katana itself was blood red. The third and final student held in his hands a two handed claymore for Octavia.
Looking over the selection Octavia shakes her hand and snaps her fingers. After only a few short seconds a female Pegasus with a similar build to Octavia took her side holding a rapier . The sheath of the rapier is mainly pitch black with two blood red metal parts at the top and bottom. The hilt guard is a tarnished silver with a blood red shine to it, the handle itself is pitch black with blood red lines showing its sections. The Pegasus mare offering the rapier to Octavia is wearing the almost exact same uniform as her. Her coat is a moderate azure blue while her mane is combed back and her tail is well kept. They are both white with Light phthalo bluish grey streaks. Her eye colour is a brilliant cerulean blue.
"Thank you for bringing my rapier, Student council vice president Night Glider."
"My pleasure, Lady Octavia." Night Glider stands and takes her place beside the other student council members.
Octavia attaches the sheath to her side and draws the rapier swiftly to ready herself in an elegant fighting stance. "We should discuss the terms of our duel, no?" Octavia prompts Amore.
"What, do you have an offer?" Amore asks getting a little impatient.
"You said your name was Von Scratch... Have you ever heard of a vampire pony known as Vinyl Von Scratch?" Octavia asks as they begin to circle the battleground.
Amore stumbles slightly and her eyes go wide as the name resounds in her mind over and over. "M-mother! You know her name!" Amore yells before speeding towards Octavia with killer intent.
'Great job Octavia... Instead of negotiating like a civil mare you just went and pushed a sensitive button...' Is what went through Octavia's mind as she blocked the slash and was flung backwards by the impact. She rolls across the floor, but regains her footing to end up in a kneeling position.
"Lady Octavia!" Night Glider is about to sprint to Octavia's side but stops when Octavia shakes her head.
"No, remain back! This is between me and Amore... Please respectfully stay out of it." Octavia gets to her feet and brushes herself off. "To put it bluntly, Amore... Yes, I know her... If you want to know more, then you have to beat me. If I win, however, I want you to leave this academy and never return." Octavia takes a deep breath.
"Fine, whatever... Just get the buck back here so I can kick your ass!" Amore states as she sprints towards Octavia once again.
This time, Octavia is prepared and she engages Amore with her own equally powerful slashes. Amore increases the force of her slashes and swipes as Octavia gracefully blocks and repels her attempts to wound her. Octavia somersaults backwards to avoid a strong horizontal slash from Amore. She then follows up with a flurry of precise, lightning fast slashes which cut Amore's clothes and skin. Amore grits her teeth and ups her game to cut even closer to Octavia making her narrowly able to dodge. Octavia decides to unleash a flurry of slashes again followed by a two step harsh kick to the stomach sending Amore flying away from her to roll across the floor.
"You're a feisty little pest of an Earth Pony..." Octavia feels herself grin, clearly enjoying herself.
Octavia can feel her heart beat wildly in her chest. Her breathing is fast paced and quickens as the fight goes on. 'Am I enjoying fighting this mare? Is she really entertaining me this much?' These thoughts plagued Octavia's mind long after Amore stood back up and continued the fight, increasing her skill and prowess with her longsword, clearly displaying she was holding back.
"Is this all you have?!" Octavia shouts losing herself in the pleasure of the battle.
"Not by a long shot, eat this!" Amore retorts as she kicks Octavia's rapier up into the air causing Octavia to lose her balance. Amore then performs a two step kick on Octavia landing the first in her stomach and the second slamming harshly into her head and sending her flying across the floor. When Octavia finally stops rolling and lays flat on her back, a red mark clear on her face. Her rapier lands just short of her head.
Amore is breathing heavily, her accumulated wounds starting to take effect as she clutches her side where Octavia kicked her. Amore's eyes are suddenly brought to Octavia's body as she begins to burst into laughter.
"Da hell is up with you?" Amore asks through her pain.
"I'm not finished by a long shot... Prepare yourself!" Octavia screams as she, with seemingly flawless and lightning precision, gets up from her laying position. As she does so she grabs her rapier and without effort closes the gap between her and Amore. Octavia then unleashes an unblockable flurry of piercing strikes which hit every time sending Amore further and further back until she is slammed into the perimeter wall. Octavia's rapier is driven into Amore's chest and all the way through into the wall.
Amore coughs up a lot of blood all over Octavia's uniform getting a little on her face. Octavia's eyes turn a blood red colour and she smells the air a few times, catching the scent of Amore's blood. She then wipes some off her cheek and takes a taste making her eyes widen. 'Her blood... This sweet apple flavoured taste... It's smooth refined texture... The aroma it gives is so tantalising and delicious...' Octavia finds her mind in a spin, unable to process what is in her mouth. Swallowing hard, she looks at Amore's neck and, without thinking, slowly sinks her fangs down softly into the flesh of the bright orange Earth Pony.
In one simple instant upon the fresh blood touching Octavia's tongue she felt the universe explode into a million tiny unknown pieces. What she tasted was indeed blood, but blood with a sweet, freshly-picked apple taste to it. Octavia felt all her senses go into overdrive at the sensation. She could hear Amore's quickened slightly falling heartbeat. Amore's heavy shallow breathing. 'Who exactly is this mare and what are these feelings I'm having?' Octavia found herself soon letting go and looking deep into Amore's soft aquamarine eyes and it hit her like a ten ton Equestrian furniture mover's truck. Or a full blood metal longsword to the stomach.
Octavia slowly looked down and noticed Amore had stabbed her the same time she drove her rapier into Amore. Looking back up into Amore's eyes the mare managed to swallow and give a weak chuckle. "This... Means a... Draw, right?" Amore squeaks out before passing out. Octavia smiles and removes her rapier from Amore's chest. Flicking the blood off it, she then sheathes it and throws the whole thing aside. Octavia then removes the blood metal longsword from herself and throws that onto the ground. The pain of the previous battle spiked through Octavia and she hissed in pain as Night Glider rushed over to help.
"No, I'll be fine... Please take my rapier and Amore's longsword along with her case to Lady Flutterbat for inspection. I will take Amore to the infirmary along with myself." Octavia manages to pick Amore up bridal style before heading towards the academy main building. Night Glider wears a puzzled expression, but does as ordered by Octavia.
Amore suddenly wakes up in an infirmary bed and sits up sharply which causes her to feel a deep pain making her lay back down. "Where the fuck am I..?" Amore asks looking at her hand raised up towards the ceiling.
"You are in the academy infirmary... I brought you here." States a voice from the direction of the window.
Amore looks to see Octavia, whom she fought before. Octavia turns to address the mare directly. "You're quite the fighter, aren't you... It's been a long time since I met anyone who has caused me to use as much force as I did." Octavia states with a deep sigh.
"So, why am I still here? Didn't I lose our little duel?." Amore asks rubbing her neck slightly before flinching in pain.
Octavia shakes her head and sighs slightly. "It was a draw... We both dealt fatal blows to each other in that last encounter and I could hardly claim victory with a longsword through my stomach... Speaking of which." Octavia removes her blazer and shirt placing them on the infirmary bed. She then draws Amore's attention to the scar on her stomach where her longsword plunged into her.
"Don't you vampires have super healing or whatever?" Amore asks blushing slightly at the sudden stripping.
"Normally, yes... However, your longsword appears to be special in certain aspects. One such visible trait is to not allow vampire wounds to heal without scarring like this. Also, there is something odd about you... Your blood tastes odd. Much sweeter than normal and carries the taste of freshly-picked apples. It bugs me, but it has also enveloped me." Octavia puts her tops back on and takes a deep breath.
"I have something to ask before we get to that... Vinyl Von Scratch... It is the only name of my parents I have. Please... Tell me what you can about her." Amore pleads to Octavia who turns back to the window and sighs deeply.
"The vampire Vinyl Von Scratch... Was my roommate up until two years ago when she resigned as student council vice president and left our fair academy for places unknown to us... I've never had it in me to throw out her old things." Octavia starts to explain.
"Oh, you're awake~" A playful yet mature voice states as the pony who it belongs to enters the room.
Octavia turns around to see Principal Flutterbat walk over to them smiling like normal. "Oh, Principal Flutterbat... I'm sorry I didn't report in yet." Octavia apologises but Principal Flutterbat simply shakes her head.
"No need to apologise. You must be Miss Amore Sânge Von Scratch... It is true Miss Vinyl Von Scratch was enrolled here, however, it's also true she left two years ago. I've already enrolled you here as well. If you plan on staying to find out more about your mother, then becoming a student here is in your best interests." Principal Flutterbat explains.
"Screw your stupid academy. I don't need to be enrolled just to find out shit about-" Amore closes her mouth seeing the furious, yet silent glare of Principal Flutterbat.
"Allow me to calmly rephrase that... I will not allow you to stay on the academy grounds for any reason if you are not on the academy charter. I don't give a damn who your mother is... You either enrol in our fair system or get the hell out of my academy... Clear?" Principal Flutterbat states with dominance.
"I'll enrol... Sorry." Amore weakly squeaks like a scared mouse.
"Good... Your new uniform will be with you tomorrow along with your sword and case. You can also stay with Octavia so long as she approves. I have things I need to sort out, so if you will excuse me. Oh, do try and behave Amore..." Principal Flutterbat leaves the infirmary.
"I don't mind you staying with me... You were out for a while so it's nearly night for the academy. When you feel able enough to walk I will take you to my... Our room. I can also show some of your mother's old things she left behind. They are, of course, all yours if you want them." Octavia offers Amore who sighs deeply.
"Sure, that sounds good... Umm... Thanks by the way. Also... Sorry for calling you a bitch earlier... the lack of competition had me very frustrated and pissed off." Amore coughs slightly before resting back down.
Octavia smiles and chuckles slightly, letting Amore get back to resting. She then starts to stare out the window, contemplating her feelings and what happened when she drank Amore's blood.
Octavia opens the door to her dorm room and walks inside with Amore. Looking around Amore can see the room is fairly normal. Two beds sit on opposite sides of the room with a window between them. At the base of the beds are wardrobes and at the back of the room beside the door is a desk. Directly to the right as you come in, past the desk is the door to the bathroom. Several musical posters of two specific genre types litter the walls on either side of the room, Vinyl's dubstep and techno posters proving more appealing to her than the classical. Amore sits atop the bed on the right side of the room which is slightly messier than the left.
"Vinyl's bed is the one on the right, so you can take that one. I cleaned most of it up into the wardrobe... What I could anyway." Octavia explains as she removes her blazer and bow tie to place in her wash basket at the foot of her bed.
Amore removes her slightly damaged leather jacket and lays it on the bed. She then moves to the wardrobe and opens it to sift through the mass of clothes within. Amore finds an assortment of different coloured headphones and matching iPods. Amore picks out a pair of red headphones and a matching iPod, before laying back down to listen to the music on it.
Octavia smiles to herself as she enters the bathroom to take a shower. Amore flicks through several techno and electronic styled music selections on the iPod while listening to a few, bobbing her head to the beat. After a little while, Octavia exits the shower with a towel wrapped around her while she dries her hair with another towel. Octavia sits on her bed as Amore moves back her left headphone to hear Octavia as she begins to speak to her.
"How are you doing since leaving the infirmary?" Octavia finishes drying her hair and moves to remove her towel so she can dry herself.
"I'm doing better... I guess my mother being a vampire gives me the fast healing benefit. Other than that, I'm not quite sure how I'm going to learn anything enrolled here at this academy. I'm looking for my parents. I'm not looking to make friends... This is a waste of time. I don't even know what I'm doing here..." Amore explains as she sighs deeply.
Octavia finishes drying herself before placing the towels in the wash basket. She then goes to the wardrobe and slips on a fresh pair of panties. Octavia then slides into bed before carrying on the conversation.
"Amore, I think there is a lot you could learn here... I'm not asking you to take part in the learning system. I can use my notes to teach you later on if you want. Least you can do is learn enough to pass the exams we have to partake in on a regular basis. Other than that, there are a variety of club activities you can indulge in to pass the time. Please give it a chance." Octavia pleads while looking serious.
"You confuse me most of all! It was only a few hours ago we were at each other's throats! You literally bit my throat and drank my blood. You have been acting weird since I woke up in that infirmary and it's creeping me out... You're being much nicer... I'm going to take a shower, okay." Amore places the iPod and headphones on the bed before going to the bathroom in frustration.
Octavia sighs deeply before slipping out of bed and putting Amore's iPod on a charging dock which sits on the window ledge. She sighs and looks around at Vinyl Scratch's old things.
"You're so alike it's scary, Vinyl... She also inherited your stubbornness... Oh, she will require just as much work as you did to straighten out..." Octavia smiles to herself before sliding back into bed as she quietly remembers a lot of her past moments with Vinyl Scratch.
After several minutes, Amore comes out of the shower drying her hair with one towel and no towel around her waist. Amore opens up Vinyl Scratch's wardrobe to sift through her clothes to find a pair of pyjama's which are white with dark blue and purple musical notes all over them. Amore tries the pyjama's on and, to her surprise, they fit quite well. Amore turns the lights out and looks around the room before sighing and sliding into Vinyl Scratch's old bed to snuggle down and relax so she can sleep off the day's annoying worries.
"This has all exploded far more than I expected coming here... I was only looking for a fight and have ended up enrolling in this odd academy. Amore, what have you gone and jumped into this time..? Will I even find anything?" Amore buries her head into her pillow and sighs deeply before drifting off to sleep.
Author's Note
I hope you all enjoyed my first, well technically this is my second attempt. Either way I'm sticking to my guns on this one. Like it or leave it, it is here to stay. I promise it will get better later on and the romance will be developed along with the story. Stay tuned for more.
View Online
Dance in the Midst of Midnight
Concerned Band Mates and Student Council Worries
Day one of the festival...
The student council meeting room is silent despite all the members being in attendance other than Octavia and Amore. The tea and biscuits are laid out like normal and Night Glider has her arms crossed as she is deep in thought.
"So, what is this emergency meeting for, Night Glider?" Rivet asks, seeming confused.
"Also, why are Amore and Octavia not present?" Sugar Belle adds.
Night Glider unfolds her arms and leans forward onto the table as she sighs deeply.
"I didn't inform them about the meeting... Have none of you noticed how different they are acting? Amore moved out of Octavia's room and has started bunking with Derpy Hooves... This started three days ago and neither of them are willing to talk about it." Night Glider informs the rest as they ponder her words.
"Well... Despite this, I can't fault Amore on anything to do with her reports... As the head of the music committee she is doing very well and the festival preparations are coming along smoothly." Amethyst Star states, looking down.
"I think trying to talk to Amore would be a fruitless endeavour as she hardly likes any of us..." Double Diamond states as he eats a biscuit.
"I will talk to her..." Night Glider states staring into the distance.
All the student council members look at Night Glider in surprise before Sugar Belle decides to speak.
"She hates you the most... What makes you think she would even tell you anything?" Sugar Belle asks looking concerned.
"Because... If we do nothing this will affect the whole student council, not just Octavia... I refuse to let this go on, especially during the festival." Night Glider comments as she stands up and leaves the room.
In the academy courtyard are set up multiple stalls offering an assortment of festival goods and foods. Amore and her band are running a stall selling candy floss and muffins of the same flavour.
Aqua Streak rubs her forehead. "Derpy... Explain the candy floss flavoured muffins again..?" Aqua Streak is leaning forward on their stall.
Derpy picks up a pink muffin before hopping up and down slightly. "Muffins~"
"Nuff said I think." Amore comments with a smile as she sits on a crate at the back of the stall beside the oven cooking more muffins.
The stall is fairly simple with an open front, but curtained back with a hole in the top to allow heat out from the oven. Scarlet Orange is making the candy floss, gently humming while doing so.
"This was a good idea~" Scarlet Orange states with a smile.
"We could have done something so much cooler and tons more fun than this!" Aqua Streaks complains laying her head on her crossed arms on the stall table.
"Nah, this is plenty fun. Look on the bright side, we'll get to play in front of everyone later so cheer up you grouch!" Amore states as she throws a muffin at Aqua Streak, which bounces off her head and lands in front of her.
Derpy perks up as a Griffon and pony approach the stall holding hands. The Griffon has crimson red where his white should be and silver where brown would be if compared to that of Gilda. His eyes are also a silver colour. The pony is different than normal. She has a violet coat with her mane and tail being a violet colour with pinkish streaks that reaches halfway down her back. Her eyes are an aqua blue with a pair of bat wings on her back. The Griffon wears the normal uniform while the pony wears the supernatural uniform.
"Umm... I'd like two candy floss please." The Griffon asks letting go of the pony's hand briefly.
"Sure, that'll be four bits~" Derpy states with a smile.
After the Griffon pays Derpy she hands over two of the prepared candy floss and he passes one to the pony. She takes it with glee and proceeds to eat a small chunk of it with a small squeak in happiness before the pair continues their walk hand in hand.
The entire band have their mouths dropped and can hardly believe their ears.
"Did you see that..?" Amore asks.
"I think I just nearly had an adorableness heart attack..." Aqua Streak comments.
"Sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo Cuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuutttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttteeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!" Derpy squeaks in excitement as she flaps her wings and does a small running on the spot dance.
"I think she is a bat pony... The ears and eyes are kinda how to tell, also from her uniform, she is a vampire most likely." Scarlet Orange states as she makes some more candy floss, blushing brightly.
"You don't say... I wonder if they are all that dangerous when they are being adorable... Anyway, I'm gonna go for a walk." Amore stands up and leaves the stall, heading for the academy main building.
"Is she still not talking about what happened?" Aqua Streak prompts to Scarlet Orange and Derpy who both shake their heads in worry and she sighs deeply.
Amore leans on the railing of the academy rooftop as she looks out over the festival, which seems to be going very well. Down at her and the girls' stall, she can see many more customers buying muffins and candy floss which makes her smile.
"Going well, isn't it..." A voice states from behind Amour making her roll her eyes and turn around.
"What do you want, Night Glider?" Amore asks the student council vice president who stands before her.
"You and I need to talk, now..." Night Glider states not changing her serious expression.
Amore scoffs and goes to leave the rooftop before a dagger hits the door, narrowly missing her head.
"I'm fucking serious you stupid child! You and I will be talking and it's happening right fucking now! Don't blow me off like I'm some common attack dog for Octavia... I'm your student council vice president you little shit! Whatever happened between you and Octavia is none of our business... But when something affects the performance of the student council as a whole and our beloved president... Then it becomes our fucking business!" Night Glider rants flicking out her rapier similar in design to Octavia's.
Amore turns around and goes to speak before her silver case is thrown at her, leaving Night Glider's hand slightly steaming and burning.
"Don't even try to talk... You don't understand talking, so we're going to fight... There is no way to escape this one... I don't care if you don't feel like it, I don't care if you think I'm just Octavia's little bitch! I'm not vice president for no fucking reason and you're about to learn why... So pick up your sword and let it talk for you!" Night Glider explains stretching slightly and readying her rapier in a battle position.
Amore opens her case and retrieves her longsword before throwing her case to the side. Not allowing her to get ready Night Glider lunges at Amore making her narrowly dodge with a roll to the right. Amore gets to her feet, but shortly after she is assaulted by a quick flurry of slashes and lunge attacks keeping her in a blocking stance.
"Thousand needles of sincere judgement!" Night Glider suddenly shouts before her rapier glows and Amore is sent flying across the rooftop on her back.
Amore recovers in the form of a back flip and flexes her wrist briefly. Night Glider decides to charge for the third time, but Amore doesn't hold back and smashes her sword into her rapier using a baseball bat like motion. The blocked impact sends Night Glider sliding backwards, to which Amore tries to follow up with some of her own attacks.
"Get serious red strip! You are stronger than this!" Night Glider yells as she Spartan kicks Amore directly in the stomach catching her by surprise and sending her rolling across the floor again.
When Amore stops she is in a downward kneeling position and coughs up blood onto the floor. Suddenly Amore is kicked in the chin by Night Gliders hoof and flipped over onto her back. She is then straddled and tries to stab Night Glider, but both swords are thrown to the side and Night Glider grabs Amore's collar as she proceeds to punch Amore over and over in the face left and right.
"Why... Won't... You... Fight... Me... Seriously?!" Night Glider asks between punches that seem to get softer and weaker as they go on.
Eventually, Night Glider stops and grips Amore's collar tightly as she grits her teeth making Amore confused.
"Why won't you go vampire... why do you not fight me seriously? I want to see those aquamarine eyes turn blood red... What the fuck is going on between you and Octy that it has her like this..?" Night Glider begins and starts to lightly cry, her mane covering her face.
"I..." Amore begins, but is punched by Night Glider.
"Shut up! For once in your fucking life, just fucking listen to someone!" Night Glider pleads as she whimpers.
Amore stays silent and awaits what the vice president has to say watching her with uncertain eyes.
"You managed to tie with her when you first arrived here... Something not even I could do, even though I made it to vice president. I never lasted more than five minutes again the president yet you come along and tie with her even making her go all out just to get that result... When you were enrolled here I hoped your room was undecided so I could offer mine... Such a damn coincidence you had to be Vinyl Scratch's daughter, Octavia had no way to lose that one... Did she?" Night Glider continues, loosening her grip on Amore's blazer collar.
Night Glider looks up into the sky revealing her face and the tears streaming down her cheeks.
"I wanted to try for you... Even if you bunked with her how hard could that be? Kinda hard when you spent every waking and sleeping moment in her presence... Then she started feeding off you the second day. I will never match up to Octy... I stopped trying, I got pissed off at you and her... I felt robbed of a chance with you..." Night Glider chuckles and shakes her head.
"What's stopping you now..? You know we broke up and everything..." Amore comments awaiting the punch she figured she'd get for speaking.
Night Glider sighs deeply and looks down at Amore. "I can't... No matter how much I might want to, I have no chance..."
Night Glider leans down and gently kisses Amour on the lips before getting up and straightening her uniform. She then walks over to her rapier and sheathes it on her belt.
"I guess that explains why you're always so pissy with me... Look, Night Glider..." Amore begins, but is cut off by Night Glider.
"Don't... I expect a rematch so that you know... If you want to say sorry, help me spar. Nobody here other than Octavia is strong enough to be my partner... However, from how you fought just now... I don't even know if you are worthy of being my sparring partner. Also... Even if you asked I would decline you at this point..." Night Glider begins to walk towards the rooftop exit.
"What makes you want to decline?!" Amore asks lifting herself up and rubbing her jaw.
Night Glider stops for a second and takes a deep breath before smiling to herself. "You belong with her... Anyone with eyes and a brain can see that." Night Glider comments as she leaves the rooftop.
Amore walks over to her sword and picks it up before sitting down next to the rail and leaning against it.
"Tavi..." Amore whispers to herself as she stares up at the clouds, one of which looks like a bat symbol.
Derpy enters her dorm room and looks around taking note of the mess on Amore's side of the room compared to the left side which is her's.
"Aqua said maybe she went back to the room, but..." Derpy looks around and sighs deeply before noticing that the bathroom door is open slightly and Amore's clothes are scattered on her bed.
Taking caution, Derpy knocks a little on the door, upon hearing no answer she enters the bathroom and looks around for Amore. The bathroom is fairly steamed up and the floor looks slightly wet. Derpy looks at the bathtub, which is filled to the brim and decides to inspect it. Walking up to the bathtub she can see Amore is naked and fully submerged in the water. Not seeing any movement and unsure how long she has been submerged Derpy panics and dives into the bathtub to start pulling Amore out.
"Come on! Why must you be so heavy damn it?!" Derpy complains as she hauls Amore out of the bathtub and onto the floor, spilling a great deal of water.
Derpy checks Amore to find she isn't breathing or has a pulse. Thinking fast she begins chest compressions and giving Amore mouth to mouth. After several panicked seconds of medical attention, Amore coughs up water and regains consciousness making her open her eyes. Derpy backs off and leans against the wall taking deep breaths.
"Amore... What the bucking hell was that?! I nearly had a panic attack from this shit!" Derpy shouts at Amore, who is still getting her bearings.
"H-hey... Derpy..." Amore weakly states staring in Derpy's direction.
"What the in the name of Celestia were you thinking? What possessed you to even remotely come up with this solution!" Derpy begins to rant looking extremely upset at Amore.
"Would you... Believe me... If I said I... Fell asleep while thinking?" Amore asks sheepishly.
"Not in the slightest! Please tell me what's going on..." Derpy pleads to the wet and heavy breathing Amore.
"Octavia and I broke up three days ago... Well, I broke up with her... Things became complicated after we met someone and I don't know what's what anymore... The one amazing thing I find in my life and it turns out to be false-" Amore begins, but is cut off by Derpy.
"You're wrong! I don't know what happened between you and her, but... I know Octavia and she would never commit to you like she has if her feelings were false... I don't have a head for complicated things... But I know both of you are beyond happy when together..." Derpy states looking sad.
"I can't promise anything, Derpy... If it'll make you happy I will think about everything, but I can't promise you anything." Amore says staring at the ceiling.
"I'll get you something to wear, we're performing soon in the afternoon. Will you be okay for it?" Derpy asks standing up before helping Amore get up and moves her to the bed she is sleeping in for now.
Derpy lays a towel on the bed and lets Amore sit down while she shifts through the clothes she brought with her. Derpy finds some underwear and a fresh uniform that Amore can put on. Laying them beside her on the bed she silently leaves Amore to get dressed as she thinks.
The trio that is Amore's band mates are setting up their instruments while Amore herself is admiring how quickly Rivet and his construction club crew were able to set up and alter the stage to her bands requirements. The assembly hall itself is the same as you'd see in any high school anime where you see them having introduction ceremonies and such. The stage had extra lighting on the structure to allow several colour changes throughout the performance. Large custom made sub woofers were set up on either side of the stage which had Vinyl's symbol on the side, no doubt a gift from her mother. Scarlet Orange finished setting up her drum set and went about practising, Derpy and Aqua Streak did the same with their bass guitar and normal guitar. Rivet walks over to Amore and folds his arms, taking a deep breath before speaking.
"Are the modifications to your liking?" Rivet asks, looking at Amore who is staring up at the sunset sky from the ceiling skyline that's a circle.
"They are perfect, Rivet, thank you." Amore states with a light smile.
"Amore is actually thanking me for something." Rivet remarks.
"Meh, don't get used to it." Amore comments as she nudges Rivets shoulder in a playful manner.
"The show'll start soon, I look forward to it. Your band is quite the talk of Valentine's , best band they have had there in a while. Good luck for this performance." Rivet states before leaving.
Amore notices ponies in student council uniforms are leading other ponies into the assembly hall and over to the stage. The hall has various food and drink tables set up to provide free nourishment for the students and visiting races who support the academies cause. On the left wall, farthest to the back near the archway entrance Amore can see Octavia leaning against the wall, still having a clear view of the stage.
Amore feels a knot in her stomach and her blood runs cold at seeing the mare she, up until three days ago, was so close with. Suddenly she feels a hand on her shoulder and she turns slightly to see Derpy.
"You wanna call it off for this evening?" Derpy asks looking concerned
Amore shakes her head and takes a few deep breaths. "I'm fine... We said we would handle the music for the festival. As the music club, we have a promise to fulfil." Amore states with a smile.
"We should just do what we always do, have a shit ton of fun and rock the house out!" Aqua Streak exclaims with a fist pump in the air.
"I agree with Aqua, we shouldn't do anything different because certain things have changed... What's essential is that we do what Aqua said and have fun." Scarlet Orange smiles.
"Then let's do just that and turn up the volume." Amore states as she takes the microphone stand.
Amore looks out at the mass crowd that came to the festival and she smiles widely feeling a little more comfortable.
"Wassup Armonia! I don't know if there are any patrons of Valentine's in here this evening, but I'm sure you will give us a shout out?!" Amore asks looking hopeful.
A section of multiple races give a few eager cheers and whistles.
"That's what I like to see! Happy you fellows could make it! Now for those who don't know, I am AMR-3 and my band will provide your entertainment for this evening, compliments of the music committee! We hope you all enjoy yourselves!" Amore finishes before giving an eager smile to her band mates, her attitude and demeanour entirely changed.
Scarlet Orange and Aqua Streak start the song before Derpy joins them with her guitar. Amore provides the vocals.
I wake up every evening
When you see my face
Now where's your picket fence love?
And truth be told I miss you
When you see my face
Derpy starts playing a rift on her guitar with great enthusiasm before Amore continues singing.
Tomorrow you'll be thinking to yourself
And truth be told I miss you
When you see my face
Now you'll never see
When you see my face
When you see my face
Amore's band finishes playing with her doing an intense fist pump into the air and the resounding applause of the audience ringing in their ears. Amore can see Octavia in the background also clapping at her performance and looking directly at her. Amore wants to avert eye contact, but feels she can't so she simply smiles. Now pumped with adrenaline the band settle into play another two songs along with background music for the gathered masses of the festival. Opposite Octavia leaning against the wall of the other assembly hall entrance is Valentine, drinking a flask of whisky and looking at the stage with a slight frown. Glancing over at Octavia he sighs and rubs the back of his head. 'Guess I've got more work to do...' Valentine states internally as he disappears out of the archway entrance.
Author's Note
I hope you all enjoyed this chapter! Drama galore, confessions and suicide attempt! Gotta love it. There will be just as much drama in the next two chapters during the festival and I pray you continue to love the direction I'm taking this train. Also, I'd like to say now that I picked the glee version because it suited my need for a female voice and that it was in a source film maker PMV video of the song. Don't dislike or hate the chapter just because of that please! Stay tuned for so much more.
