Runaway

Chapters

Chapter One; Arrival- Moonshade
Chapter Two; Arrival- Chrysalis
Chapter Three; Street Survival Attempt- Moonshade
Chapter Four; Work and Play- Chrysalis
Chapter Six; First Meeting- Chrysalis
Chapter Seven; First Meeting- Moonshade
Chapter Eight; Ultimatums- Chrysalis
Chapter Nine; Cracks in the Armor- Moonshade
Chapter Ten; Decision- Chrysalis
Chapter Five; Dream- Moonshade

Chapter One; Arrival- Moonshade

“Miss, it's time to wake up, I need you to get off the bus unless you're going on to the next stop,” a male voice says as I'm rocked gently. The voice is full of irritation as he tries to hide it while waking me up as professionally as possible. “If you're moving on, miss, then I need to see your ticket before I can allow you to stay on the bus.”

Slowly the darkness gives way as light and blurry images assault my eyes. Giving them a rub, I yawn and stretch out before reorienting myself. Where am I? How did I---- It takes a while for me to remember why I'm waking up on a bus instead of a bed or cot. Oh yeah, I ran away..... Again. Though this is the farthest I ran before now. Once I’m more or less awake I begin to rummage around my small bag. Please tell me I didn’t lose it. “I’m sorry sir, I must have lost it,” I admit after I empty it all over the seat next to me. “Thank you for waking me up.”

“Sorry Miss, but I can’t let you continue on. Do you have another way to get to your destination?”

“Yea, I just need to make a call. But first, is there a restaurant around here?”

“Sure is, but first I want you to go make that call.”

As I head to the payphones, I notice he’s watching me the whole time. A hint of curiosity and concern crosses his face as I begin to dial. Might as well try and make this as convincing as possible. “Hey mom, it’s me..... I lost my ticket on accident..... Must have fallen while I was asleep..... I’m in, hold on, Canterlot..... Okay I’ll see you soon, love you.” Hmph, first time I ever used those words in a long time. I hope he’s convinced.

“So when is your mom gonna be by to pick you up? And why don’t you have a cellphone?”

“In about thirty minutes. My phone broke two days ago and we haven't replaced it yet. Is there a McHoofs close by?”

“Sure, I’d take you but I gotta get the bus ready. I leave here in an hour and I want you back here with your food.”

He’s a little suspicious; thankfully, he can’t follow me. Once I get my food, I’m disappearing. “Alright, see you soon.” I give him a fake smile and wave as I head in the direction indicated. Once I make my order and get my food, I quickly head out, but not back to the station. A minute later, I find myself in a park. I watch my surroundings while eating, staying in the shadows and bushes. A shiver travels through me as a gust of chill air swirls about, my thin jacket not even slowing it down.

When I’m nearly done eating, I hear some voices approach. It sounds like seven girls around my age and five grown women. They sound happy, wonder what brought them out here at this time of year. I can’t help but listen to them as I peek through the foliage. Before me sits the group, very close to my hiding spot.

“..... What do you think, mom?” the mustard-skinned girl closest to me says, her hair red with streaks of yellow through it.

“I guess it won’t be an issue, as long as Luna agrees,” the multicolor-haired woman answers while staring at the woman with blue skin that matches my hands and two tone blue hair. I quietly get comfortable as I stay and listen to the group, imagining what it’d be like to be in a similar situation.

I have no clue how long I spend laying there, listening and daydreaming, when hurried footsteps breaks me out of my current train of thoughts. “Ladies, I am sorry to interrupt your picnic, but have you seen this girl? She was last seen heading here, though that was over an hour ago.”

I watch as a picture is passed from the police officer to the group of teens and adults. Damnit, I knew that driver was suspicious. But I would have thought it'd be a little longer to be searching. I go stock still as I continue to watch, barely breathing.

“No officer we haven't, and she isn't one of my students. Has she done something wrong?” the multi haired woman asks as she passes along the picture to who I suspect is Luna.

“We suspect she’s a runaway, ma'am, and just want to ask her a few questions.”

“Do you have any leads, officer?” Luna asks seriously as the picture is passed around to the teens. A muttering of the teens as they look the picture over can only be guessed at, but I'm betting it's wondering why a girl that looks like me is a runaway.

“Only that she came here on a bus from Baltimare, alone. The driver said she lost her ticket and didn't have much on her, just a small bag full of trinkets.”

“Thank you officer, we shall notify you if we find her.” The officer moves on while the group stands there talking.

“Do you think she’s still around, mom?” the red-and-blonde haired girl asks with a hint of concern.

The woman she addresses just lays a hand on her shoulder. “I do not know, Sunset, but I doubt it.” She stops and looks at her face. “I see, this has got you thinking back on when you were homeless doesn't it?” All she can do is give a nod as the other girls wrap her in a hug.

“Let’s try and find her, this park isn’t that big.” the rainbow-haired athletic looking girl says. “I mean, there must be a reason she ran right? Especially for running such a distance.”

“Ah agree with Rainbow. She mus’ be runnin’ from somethin’ horrible if she traveled from Baltimare,” says the girl wearing a cowboy hat. “Let’s split up, either in pairs or alone.”

The group ends up splitting apart with Sunset, her mom and and a timid girl with pink hair heading towards my location. Oh shit, not good. Can't let them-----

“I think I heard something coming from those bushes.” Sunset says as she approaches my position. “Hey, it's okay. We aren't gonna turn you in but we do have questions for you.”

Damn and double damn. I can feel my heart begin to race as I stay as still as possible. Please don’t come any closer. Despite the fear rushing through my very essence, I focus on keeping my breathing quiet and controlled. Even with that meal, I can't really run. I can't afford to waste the energy, it'll cost me too much.

“Uhm Sunset..... If..... If she's running away, I don't think she'll come out that easily,” the pink haired girl says quietly. I have to strain my hearing just to make out what she says.

Gotta risk it, can't get-----

“Hello there, and just who might you be?” I look up and standing next to me is the woman addressed as mom. Sunset stands off on the opposite side while the shy girl is standing in front of me.

Damn, how did I miss her approaching? Hesitantly, I stand up but keep the deep hood drawn and my head down. “No one.” My answer comes out assertively as I refuse to let them get a look at my face.

The woman extends a hand towards me, and I can somewhat make out a smile as she begins to talk. “I’m Celestia, what is your name?”

I can tell she is already thinking I’m the girl from the picture. Okay, I have to time it just right. There are others, they know out there, I'm not in the best of shape and I'm not at optimal health for an extended run, haven't been for a while. I wait as sure enough, Celestia and Sunset break their eye contact with me and stare at each other. At that point I turn and run, restraining myself from making the mistake of full out sprinting. Instead, I pick my path carefully while maintaining a quick but easy pace, careful to keep the sound down.

The surprise of my move earns me enough of a head start, and after ten or so minutes I slow down. False..... Trail..... Best..... Bet. I huff out mentally and use the precious head start to make another trail after being careful to step into my tracks for a little bit. Up ahead, I can hear the noise of others crashing through the woods quickly. Time to go. My current trail dumps me in front of the mall. Perfect, best place to hide in a crowd.

Redrawing my hood to hide my features, I make my way inside, the gnawing pangs in my belly quickly making my decision on where to go. I lost them, thank God. Now to refuel and find a place to hunker down for the night. It takes longer than I want, I’m able to get some food. A minute later and my anxiety would have started to kick in despite trying to keep it in check.

All throughout my meal I keep a nervous eye on the entryways after finding the table that offers the best view of the room. Okay, I got….. $40 left, need to make it stretch as much as possible. Also, I know now to avoid a school. I’m guessing the high school.

Once I finish eating, I pick my way through the mall, looking through all the stores to see which ones are going to be easiest to steal from. Once I’m satisfied with my choices, I make my way down to where I noticed some abandoned buildings, thankful it hasn’t rained yet.

At each deserted building I examine first the outside, and if that’s clear I check the inside via windows before debating if I should inspect it further or not. The sixth house I check out is the jackpot, as it still has running water and electricity along with mostly boarded up windows. Further investigation leads to a good amount of tools still in usable condition and a worn but clean mattress. Now just need to cover up the rest of these windows from the outside and gonna need a fire pit plus ventilation for it.

Humming softly, I empty my pitiful items left in my bag and take stock of what I have left. Tomorrow I need to find a few markets, need to restock on toiletries and personal hygiene stuff. Once a plan is somewhat formed, I wait for nightfall as it’s the best time to get my other supplies, which is mostly extra sheets of wood to block out the windows but also scrap metal and large rocks.

Along with the windows, I rig a custom alarm system at the front and side doors and the windows. All it consists of is a bunch of metal cans and string. After testing them a few times, I’m pleased with the attachment points and noise the cans produce. The two hardest projects are the fireplace and an emergency exit door. Unfortunately, those will need to wait as I need more materials and tools.

The final project I work on is to customize a hidden lock on the door. Not much here can help me, so I gotta wait till I go to the store. Plus, I need to find someone who has a cordless drill set. With those thoughts, I go back over my list I’ve written down, adding a couple new items before falling asleep.

Chapter Two; Arrival- Chrysalis

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter Three; Street Survival Attempt- Moonshade

Author's Note

Alright, finished a new chapter, yay! As always please let me what you think of it and of any mistakes found or any ideas to improve it. Enjoy

Chapter Three; Street Survival Attempt- Moonshade

The next day I’m guessing it’s close to noon when I get up. The shower is cold as I use the last of my soap and shampoo to make myself at least somewhat presentable for when I go out in public later on today. The shower is a quick ten minutes before I jump out and quickly dry off, dressing in a hurry in the only other pair of clothes I have available and wait till school lets out for the day so I don’t rouse suspicion while I’m out and about, or any more suspicion than a stranger might already garner. The time waiting is spent in the thickest blanket I was able to steal from someone’s back yard last night. Gonna have to get myself some books or games to pass the time. I wonder how Nova and Lily are doing back in Baltimare, they’re the only people I miss from there. The boredom of the slowly passing time is only amplified by my rumbling stomach, causing me to eventually lay down on the mattress. I just….. I wish I had the strength to end my miserable life. No one wants me around anyway, except for either as a beating post or….. other uses.

Finally, around five or so, I sneak out of the house using a back window after waking up from my nap and make my way first to McHoofs. All throughout the trek there, I can’t help but think back on the picnic I witnessed yesterday.

As I order, I can’t help but feel the stares of strangers on me and try to ignore them and my thoughts. As I sit and eat, I overhear a conversation between a quartet of friends.

“Hey, I heard there is some kid who showed up yesterday. Do you think she’s a danger?” As I listen I only focus on the words, while not wanting to look at them.

“I hope not. We don’t need another demon Sunset Shimmer, Dazzlings or that fiasco that happened during the Friendship Games. I don’t think I can handle any more of that kind of stress.”

It seems news spreads fast here; I just arrived yesterday and already it seems most of the people here are already on the lookout for me.

“Hey, doesn’t that person over there look a little suspicious to you girls?”

Crap, gotta go. Not wishing to push my luck, I scarf down the pitiful remnants of my meal and hurry out the door, the desire to escape only intensified by a quick glimpse of one of the guys pulling out a cellphone and dialing a number. Well, I guess I need to do my shopping now.

On my way to the nearest grocery store, I stick as close to the shadows as best I can while keeping a nervous eye out for either police or any of the girls I saw yesterday. A few close calls with a passing police vehicle doing a routine patrol has me nearly wanting to call off this trip and wait till later, specially when I begin to believe it’s the same exact car if the license plate and vehicle number are any indication. Please don’t be looking for me.

Sighing, I step through the sliding doors and begin to pick my way through the store, spending the first ten minutes spotting the security cameras, theft prevention personnel and which items I need that don’t have a security tag. I don’t take much once I finish my recon. Just a bottle of bodywash and shampoo, the cheapest they have, a washcloth, toothpaste, and a book that caught my eye, all of them disappearing into the pockets of my excessively large, favorite hoodie I’m wearing. Before I make my way out the building I proceed to grab a couple pop lid cans of soup and a few other things that don’t require heating or being in a refrigerator and calmly make my way through the door.

Sure enough, once I’m beyond the parking lot, I breathe out the tension that always grips me as I walk away through the doors, though it did get a little tense when the alarms went off because of the woman a couple feet behind me. With a smile, I slide the items into a bag containing a candy bar and bottle of pop and drop them off at my new temporary home before moving on.

By the time I finish my shopping, it’s past dusk and I’ve stocked up on mostly everything I need, minus another jacket and actual pants from a couple close by stores. I estimate I have enough toiletries, food and supplies to last me for a while. Ok, need a heater, a cooler for food and drinks, and I still need that power drill. Well, I’ll see what I can grab tonight. And I need to find the nearest coin wash.

It’s getting later into the night as I make my way to my last stop, a hardware store. Around the corner ahead of me I hear a couple voices that sound vaguely familiar. Shit, those voices….. Don’t tell me it’s them. Sure enough after rounding the corner into an alley I watch as Sunset and two of her friends come into few. One is beautiful and very well dressed with stylized purple hair, the other the same timid girl with pink hair.

“Uhm….. What….. What are we doing out here, girls?” The pink haired, shy girl that first approached me with Sunset and Celestia says with her arms crossed protectively against her chest.

“Well darling, I heard that a new high end clothing store is about to open and I just have to go and check it out! What do you think Sunset, think it would be any good?” the alabaster colored girl says happily, her smile nearly going from ear to ear which falters when the girl with fiery hair doesn’t answer, seemingly deep in thought. “Sunset darling, are you alright? You have been troubled all day.”

“Sorry Rarity, yeah I’ve been thinking….. What do you think that girl who ran away is doing right now? Is she okay? Did she leave town? I’m just worried about her.” When she finishes talking, Sunset wraps herself in a hug and looks down, sadness marring her face.

A look of understanding crosses her companion’s faces as they hug her as well. Why is she so worried about me? She doesn’t even know a thing about me. I stay as hidden as possible while watching the group finally walk past. Once they get a safe distance away I follow, keeping my head down and hood up. My attempt at trailing them ends as a police vehicle stops by the curb and the three girls start to talk with the person inside for a bit.

The hardware store is thankfully still open, though about to close in an hour as I step inside. Again I go through my ritual of checking the place out before going to work. By the time I walk out my pockets are half full with screws, a sliding lock, and a few other needed items while buying a couple screws, another pop and a candy bar.

While making my exit, I carefully scan the sidewalks, hoping that the trio are still gone before I begin to head back home. A suddenly stopping vehicle off to my left snaps me out of my train of thought and sends me into a near panic attack as I notice it’s a police vehicle. In fact I can swear it’s the same one from earlier. Shit, keep it cool Moon. He may not even be coming for you. Even with the self reassurances I can’t help but get ready to run at the slightest provocation, tensing as I hear footsteps approaching me as a door opens. A bright light covers me completely, nearly blinding me.

As I shield my eyes I can feel a presence standing just in front of me. “Hey kid, I have a question for you.”

Fuck.

Chapter Four; Work and Play- Chrysalis

You know, I could get used to this. With a smile, I stretch as consciousness begins to flood my senses. The arms of another woman draped around my midsection holding tightly along with her face buried against my shoulder keep me from making any sudden movements. With a hard exhalation, a lock of purple and blue hair that has been tickling my nose flies away, only to be draped against my eyes, blocking my vision slightly.

“Hey Luna, it’s time to wake up. You don’t want to be late do you?” All she does in reply is grumble and shift as I extract myself from her arms. With a playful shove, a surprised yelp is followed by a thud as she rolls off the bed, entangled in the blankets. “Morning.”

“You’ll pay for that Chrys, now help me get untangled.” Her attempt to be threatening only causes me to laugh as I help her out of the mess. With a snarl, she heads off to her personal bathroom and shuts door.

Would be fun to join her, but we don’t have time, oh well. The thought and following images flow through my mind as I grab a clean bra and pair of panties from my sleepover dresser and head to the guest bathroom. A giggle comes from behind me as I’m about to step into the bathroom, one I know well. “And what are you finding so funny, bacon hair?”

“Well, you seem to be in a good mood. Have a good night with Luna?” the teen asks as she heads towards the kitchen where the smells of eggs, bacon and hash browns are floating from.

“Yes I did, thank you very much. I take it Tia is up early for a change, judging by the smells coming down the hall.”

“Yeah, she decided to cook breakfast, and plans to have that talk with you.” With a breath, she stops before turning the corner and looks at me sadly. “I know you’re busy, but….. could you spend some time looking for that girl please?”

“I will, and I have some outside help as well.” I give her a smile full of confidence before stepping inside and closing the door. The shower is bliss as the hot water cascades down my body, that and trying to avoid goodie two shoes’ lecture keeps me in the room for a few minutes longer. Almost as good as being held by someone at night.

“Someone is in a good mood, hungry?” the teasing voice greets as I step into the dining room and sit next to Luna about fifty minutes later. “We still need to have that talk, Chrys.”

“Starving, thanks. And yeah, I had a good night.” I give Luna a playful nudge and chuckle at her smile as a plate slides in front of me. “Well that talk is gonna have to wait mom, isn’t it close to school time?”

“Yes it is, and until we get things sorted out with that bike, you’re riding with me or Luna, understood?” Watching the fiery haired teen slump her shoulders in defeat draws a chuckle from myself and Luna. “And I know you have a regular car Chrys, so until we get through with this talk, I don’t want you driving your bike here.” My following humph and crossed arms causes Sunset to childishly poke her tongue out at me.

***** ***** *****

As I walk through my office I check the new messages, most of them are either updates from my field agents or possible new jobs, though one is from Lulu and the other is from my contact. Seems he’s still upset over what happened, but at least he’s willing to help.

Once I get to my computer and pull up the files from yesterday, I sort them out and send my guy an email that includes a list of places she tends to favor, the criteria she looks for when shoplifting and other habits. Following the email I give him a text, letting him know I sent the info. The rest of my morning is filled with nothing but going over the reports first and responding to each one before I begin to go over the requests from possible clients.

Well, better call up a meeting and we’ll go over this list, see what they have to say. Despite being the sole owner of my security company, I find it’s good practice to go over clients with the board, just in case they find something I may have missed, though it is unlikely. This goes double for when the job may delve into the more secretive side of my company.

My phone goes off unexpectedly, but the ring tone brings a smile to my lips even though it disturbs my current train of thought. “Hey Lulu, what’s up?”

“I’m doing good, I was wondering….. do you wanna have lunch together?”

I know what my answer is as soon as she says lunch, or together. Anyway I give her a few seconds just to tense things up and torment her a little. “Sounds good, and it’ll be my treat. When can Tia let you loose?”

“I can take off at eleven thirty, I’ll stop by a…..”

“I’ll pick you up Lulu, see you in….. one hour.” My smile only grows at the tension-filled voice coming through the earpiece begins to sound more and more relieved. “I’ll see you then, beautiful.”

“O….. okay, see you then Chrysi.” While I can’t see, it I can almost feel the blush that must be covering her cheeks as we hang up. The hour passes by with arranging the potential clients from most to least possible of being accepted, along with setting up the board meeting. However, one thought dominates all others. Where should I take her? As I start up my bike my thoughts debate on a couple different restaurants. Eventually I settle on a local family diner, which happens to be Lulu’s favorite, as I pull up to the front of the school.

“Hey, you know where I can find a beautiful woman, she’s about your height and weight, is the vice principal and ready to go on a date?” The woman I ask just fumes a little as anger slightly mars her features, but she still gets in.

“You know, times like this make me wonder why I fell for you.” She turns and looks at the group of kids sitting on the front steps and giggling.

“Oh, don’t be so grouchy. I am taking you out, you know.” After a quick kiss we head on out, going towards our favorite diner. Well, that shut her up, and put on of those goofy smiles I like so much to boot. With a final smile, I maneuver around the semi full lot to get us a spot close to the door.

It doesn’t take long for us to get a seat and order. “So, how have the brats been treating you?”

“Sometimes I wonder why I decided to team with my sister and be her vice principal. Just this morning we had two fights, the three nightmares were sent to the office on FOUR separate occasions, two other students were given detention and yet again the rainbow haired egomaniac had to get a referral.”

“You love it, and you and I both know it. I don’t even know why you’re complaining.” As our food appears we sit back, only then noticing we have been slowly sliding closer together, with only the table between us.

“You’re right, I wouldn’t leave that school even if I was paid to. Now, how has the search for that new girl….. Moonshade, was it? How’s it been going?”

“I sent out the info to what feelers I could, and other people that can help search. But I haven’t been able to do any personal looking yet, though my afternoon is pretty free.”

“Alright, because Sunset is very worried about her, along with the others. Even some of the other students are a little worried, and not in a good way. It’s causing some disruption in the classrooms.”

The rest of our meal goes by with our usual small talk which doesn’t last long due to Luna’s need to return to work. I bring her back in front of the school, and a blushing Luna earns a snicker from me after I sneak in a full kiss before she exits. Her embarrassment is compounded once she notices the same group of kids sitting out front eating their lunch, causing them to launch into another round of laughter. Heck, maybe it’ll stir up some rumors or something to tweak at Celestia’s tail.

The look on her face widens my smile as I begin to drive around the closest section where the girl would most likely be found. The next four hours are mostly a big waste of time as my search comes up empty, though I had to stop a few times to keep up with the newly sent emails and messages.

By six I’m back in the office and getting ready to pass on what I need to the night staff. I know today isn’t over, with but it seems like today is a no go. Either she’s better at hiding, or she’ll be more active tonight. We need to readjust if that’s the case.

As I’m about to head out the door around seven, there is a little bit of good news. Well, he may not be sure yet if it is her or not, but he’s gonna spend some more time watching her. On that glimpse of a silver lining I head on out for home for my date tonight.

For tonight, Luna decided to pick me up, and while she tells me to wear something formal. She keeps the destination secret, knowing I hate secrets. Eventually I settle on a dress of midnight blue with the shoulders and upper chest bare. The skirt of the dress barely touches the floor, is one solid piece and surprising loose around my legs. Teal silk lines the hems along the short tight sleeves, chest and shoulders. Teal heels grace my feet and clack against the cement as I hurry to meet Luna.

As I step into the vehicle, I’m taken by her choice of dress. It’s a light purple number with a slightly v’d neckline and long sleeves. Judging by the bare skin peeking through, I can tell there is a slit going up to her upper thigh. Unfortunately, my visual inspection is interrupted by a phone call from someone I wasn’t expecting to hear from. “Hey what’s up?”

“I found your girl, we’re at the hospital in the E.R.”

“Alright, we’ll be there shortly.” Looking at Luna, I mouth the word hospital as she just looks at me in slight confusion. Quickly, I hop in and slam the door. There goes date night. Don’t worry Luna, you’ll have to tempt me some other time. Despite my thoughts, I keep myself focused on my guy recalling the events that led to her being taken to the hospital. I can already hear my companion’s question coming as I wrap up the short one sided conversation.

“What happened?”

Chapter Six; First Meeting- Chrysalis

After getting a run down by Shining Armor, who spoke exclusively to his aunt to be, we were told that we had to wait in the E.R. waiting room. I just watch my companion as she paces anxiously while talking to her older sister. Despite my calm outward appearance, I can relate to how she is feeling as I wait for her to hang up, addressing the other woman in the room. “Hey Pose, is there any way you can prevent her condition and location from reaching her current foster family?”

“I don’t think it’ll be that hard, considering how bad of a shape she is in. And before you ask, no, I cannot tell you, at least not yet. I’ll keep you two informed if anything happens or when she wakes up ok.” A yawn cuts off my reply, so all I do is nod before turning and grabbing Luna.

“Hey love, I know you want to stay, so do I, but we need to go home and get as much sleep as we can. Posey’ll let us know when she wakes up and will keep her foster family from finding out where she is. Now am I going to have to hogtie you, or will you come willingly?”

“Alright, I’ll concede to you this time. But the second you get the news she wakes up, you are immediately going to come and pick me up, got it.” As she walks past me she gives me her most menacing glare while removing her car keys. The drive to my house is quiet as we both contemplate possible outcomes for the girl. Even once we got home, we stay mostly silent and just flop on the bed, not caring about our usual rituals.

***** ***** *****

The next morning, I wake to find that Luna has already left and it’s nearing ten in the morning. I must have slept deeper than I thought, at least there isn’t anyone at work who is gonna complain about how late I am. Know what, fuck it, I’m not even going in today. Not even bothering to change or put on any clothes, I grab my laptop and settle in front of the large tv in the living room which has multiple gaming systems hooked to it and plop down in the sofa in just my boxers and sports bra. For the next three hours, I just spend my time digging even deeper into Moonshade’s case worker and current foster family until my anger gets the better of me and I have to stop.

After a light lunch and a few calls, I settle back into the couch and start up a show I’ve been enjoying on Netflix. My ringing phone snaps me back to attention, and thanks to the unique ring tone, I can guess exactly who is calling. I hope she has good news. “Hey Posey, you got any info for me? Cause I have some that may darken your day.”

“Hey Chrys, she just woke up but they aren’t allowing visitors for an hour, just to be safe. Also, there are some things I need to discuss with you, preferably in person. How soon can you get here?”

“I’ll be there in about thirty minutes. Need to pick Luna up first, I’ll see you then.” Hanging up before the other woman can reply, I grab a pair of clothes from the dirty hamper that happens to be the closest and dress while ignoring the smell slightly wafting from them. Grabbing my phone and bluetooth headset, I hurry to my bike and jam on my helmet, dialing Luna as I start the bike and rush to the school. “HEY LUNA, SHE’S AWAKE AND I’M COMING TO PICK YOU UP.” Due to the whistling wind whipping around me I have to shout into her voicemail, hoping she gets it before I get there.

As I stop in front of the school, the lack of a certain blue-skinned woman standing out front waiting leads me to parking my machine and hurrying inside. “Hey Chrys, what’s the rush?” Sunset’s smiling face comes into view as she rounds the corner. Keeping in step with me, she wraps an arm around my waist as I beeline to the office.

“Hey bacon horse. I can’t stop and chat, that girl Moonshade just woke up and Posey wants to speak to me. I promised Luna I’d pick her up and take her with me.” As I enter the office with the girl in tow, a surprised Celestia straightens up as we enter, slightly taken aback by my appearance, or maybe the fact I still have my helmet on. “Hey, I need to talk to Luna. Can you spare her for the rest of the day?”

“What’s wrong, Chrys? Why such a rush? And Luna should be back in a few minutes.” the tri color haired woman says as she leads me into her office, giving Sunset a hug in the process. “And what brings you to the office?”

“I was asked to drop this off to you, mom.” The teen hands over a pile of papers gripped in her right hand. Before she exits, she turns and looks at her foster mom. “Think once school lets out we can….. try and visit her?”

“We’ll see. Chrysalis and Luna are gonna go and see her first, and if things go well enough, we will.” With a smile, Sunset turns and hurries back to her class. “What exactly was that about? Who are you going to go see at the hospital? What happened?” Celestia asks as she sets aside the stack of papers.

“Long story short, Moonshade got caught yesterday by your niece's boy toy and she tried to run. Ended up breaking an ankle and dislocating her shoulder. She just woke up and I promised Luna I’d pick her up….. well, speak of the devil. Luna, we gotta go.”

The woman just entering the office looks at me before turning and following me. I can tell she is slightly confused, but it lasts for only a minute or two as I thrust the spare helmet into her hand. “They won’t allow visitors for about another thirty minutes or so, but we need to talk to Posey first. She has some important information for us.” I shout as the bike growls to life, Luna leaning back and gripping the handle bar.

The drive to the hospital is quick, though perilous due to the high speed of our travel. Shaking, Luna steps off the bike and walks next to me. Following Posey’s directions, we find her in an office and patiently wait for her to end the call. I just hope things aren’t too too bad with Moonshade.

“Hey Chrys, thanks for making it here as fast as you can. How are you, Luna?” As the pink haired woman hangs up the phone, I watch as she seems to literally deflate in front of us. “I must warn you two, what I’ve been told….. it isn’t pretty. Unfortunately I can’t tell you because right now, you are not her legal guardians. I forwarded the information you gave me, Chrysalis, and it is causing a literal shit storm in my office. As of right now, Moonshade has no legal guardians, only myself as her case worker.”

“I’m doing well, Posey. Is there anything you can tell us without getting into trouble?”

“Not anything the two of you don’t already know. I don’t know how you two feel about it, but I want you two to seriously consider either fostering her or seeing if Celestia will. If I have to foster her then I won’t be able to work on her case, which means that there is a better chance of someone from her old city of residence coming and bulldozing their way into being able to take her back. But for now, as long as I’m present or give my authorization, you can visit with her.”

I wonder what is going through Luna’s pretty little head right now. I….. who knows, I might actually settle for fostering this kid.

“Just curious, without doing any of the….. less than legal stuff my sister did to adopt Sunset, how long will it take to foster her?” Luna’s question throws me a little as I look at her curiously.

Hm, I wonder why she wants to know that. She never seemed like one to do this sort of thing, or even talk about having kids in general.

“Well, I can fast track it for you somewhat since I know you both live in good houses and can certainly provide for her. However, you do need to go through a bunch of classes and become certified. So until that happens, Celestia will have to take her in if she’s to have the best chance.” Taking a glance at the clock on the wall behind us, she rises and gives us a smile. “Well, it should be clear to visit her now. That is….. if you want to.”

With the invitation extended, myself and Luna stand and follow the caseworker down a couple halls, making me feel as if we’re in a labyrinth. A quick exchange behind a mostly closed door between Posey and the doctor somewhat brings back the usually warm smile on the light yellow skinned woman. “Well, doctors said she can have visitors, but for now they’re keeping it at two. Since I already talked to her, you two can go on in.”

As we step inside the room, I can feel my heart drop at the sight of the girl on the bed. Her wrapped leg is suspended in the air with her arm in a sling across her chest. To add to the sight, a cuff is attached to her other arm and ankle. As she turns at the sound of the door opening, her blood red eyes fix on us, filled with anger and pain. Even her voice is filled with the negative emotions. “What do you two want? Get out! I told them I don’t want to see anyone, no matter who they are.”

Well, this is a bad start, not really surprising considering what she has gone through. A plan forms in my mind, and before Luna can say anything, I whisper it in her ear, which earns me a smile and nod. We can feel her anger-filled gaze follow us as we go and sit down in some chairs, positioning them so our backs are to the girl. “Hey Luna, have you read the latest Daring Do book?”

Chapter Seven; First Meeting- Moonshade

Damnit, I know exactly what you are doing and I can’t even defend myself or block out your damn chatter. Screw you for employing such a tactic, whoever you are. Why couldn’t you just leave? Glaring, I watch the women from the picnic sit down off to my right but keep their backs facing away from me. I’ve only read the first three books, do not spoil the others for me.

“No, I never could get into that book series Chrys, but if you want to talk about it go ahead.”

WHAAA- BUT….. HOW….. THE BEST BOOK SERIES EVER AND YOU HAVEN’T READ IT?! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU? Already I can feel myself wanting to shout at the woman who if I remember is Luna. Only by sheer will do I keep my mouth shut.

“Well, the stories are about this marvelous woman who goes on very unique adventures gathering rare and powerful artifacts from around the world. In the first book, called Search for the Sapphire Gem, Daring almost gets killed by her enemy Auchihotle who bound her and left her in a pit that filled with water and piranhas.” Gritting my teeth, I try to reign in my outburst at the strange woman’s intentional destruction of the first book’s storyline so far.

Unfortunately, the medicines I’m given easily help tear through my resolve. “FIRST OFF IT’S DARING DO AND THE QUEST FOR THE SAPPHIRE STONE, NOT SEARCH FOR THE SAPPHIRE GEM! SECONDLY, HIS NAME IS AHUIZOTL, AND HE TRIED TO KILL HER USING QUICKSAND, SCORPIONS, SNAKES, SPIDERS AND SPIKED WALLS! THIRDLY, HOW COULD YOU NOT BE INTERESTED IN THE BEST SERIES OF ALL TIME!”

“Well, seems like someone is a fan big time. My name is Chrysalis, and this is Luna. It is a pleasure to meet you finally,” the onyx skinned woman says with a smile as she turns towards me, unsurprised by my outburst.

“Moonshade, would say it’s a pleasure, but we both know that is a lie. Now could you please leave me alone?” I expected some nurses or even a doctor to show up after that outburst. Seems like these two had this as a plan all along.

Luna speaks up with a slight smile, though a hint of sadness flashes through her eyes. “I’m not into adventure stories as Chrys is, heck she lives a life of adventure. But maybe if you can make an argument about why I should change my mind, then I’m all ears.”

“If I do, will you two PLEASE go away?”

“It will depend on how well you can convince me.” With a smile, Luna turns her chair around along with Chrysalis and they give me their utmost attention.

When….. when was the last time an adult wanted to listen this closely to what I have to say? I….. I want to believe what mom and dad said, if it was real. But….. I can’t afford to trust anyone else. Not anymore, can I? Sighing, I turn my head to my audience. “Alright, I don’t expect you to understand, but have you….. ever wished you could be someone else, do something extraordinary? Well, Daring Do is just your average woman who is able to walk into a situation that seems like it’s almost certain death and live through it using her brain, unlike the superheroes more commonly found. She is strong, confident, smart, sassy and patient. She is a reminder that even though you may be just one face in a crowd you can make something of yourself.”

“I can see why you like her then, have you ever tried going out on an adventure like she has?”

“No, but I’ve always wanted to.” With another sigh, I flop my head onto my pillow and stare up at the ceiling. “Just….. answer me one question, then please go before I call the security staff. Why is it that you, your friends and those girls are so worried about me?”

Chrysalis stands up and looks straight at me, her pierced lip turning upside down as her features sadden a little. “I can’t answer for the others, only myself. I know what it’s like to lose everyone you love and the pain of having to deal with it on your own…..”

Luna stands up and gives her friend a gentle hug before interrupting. “As for myself, I see a young woman who has potential to be like her hero. It would be a shame if she isn’t allowed to grow and show the world what she can do.” I suspect there is more to what Luna wants to say but I decide against calling her on it. “We’ll be going now Moonshade, we’ll stop by tomorrow for another visit.”

I just huff at the threat the blue toned woman gives, though through the hardness I can sense something, just the tiniest sliver of something as they walk out the door. Minutes later the pink haired woman from when I woke up walks back in, smiling a little. “You set that up, didn’t you?”

“No, they wanted to come visit of their own accord ever since they learned you were here.”

“Let me guess, they seem so nice and attentive, but they were sent by the foster family, weren’t they?”

“No, they are close friends of mine who were generally worried about you.” As she speaks, a plastic cup full of water is brought to my lips, and instead of fighting I swallow the cool liquid rapidly. “I know the doctors are worried about you trying to harm yourself judging by the marks on your wrist, and I know the cuffs are unbearable to be in. How about I make you a deal? I’ll convince your doctor to get your cuffs removed if you atleast try and talk to them again and any other visitors I approve, deal?”

Not like I have much choice, either be given some semblance of freedom and have to deal with others, or be strapped to this bed without even the ability to turn on the damn t.v. For a couple minutes I just lay there, weighing my options before speaking. “Fine, but I also want the entire Daring Do series brought up as well. And if I tell the visitors to go, they leave immediately.”

Smiling, she heads back out the door, stopping to turn the t.v. on to a channel I used to enjoy watching. Judging by how many shows have played through, it’s about two hours before she reappears with the doctor and the cuffs are removed without a word, causing me to immediately roll, stretching and flexing my uninjured arm and leg. “Thanks.”

“You are welcome, sweetie. By the way, you have another pair of visitors. Are you in the mood to see them?”

“Deal’s a deal.”

“Okay, come on in.” At her words, the fiery haired girl and her mom walk in through the door. I can’t help but give a snort as they stop beside the bed.

The teen is the first to address me as she holds out her hand. “I’m Sunset Shimmer, though I guess you may or may not already know that. It’s nice to meet you, Moonshade.”

Reluctantly, I take her hand and then the hand of the ivory skinned woman next to her. “And I’m Celestia. Are you being treated okay here?”

“Fine I guess, can’t wait to get away from this hell hole.” Throughout the whole visit I keep my gaze away from the two. “Why are you two so worried about me? You know nothing about me or what my life has been like.”

Celestia is the first one to speak up, her hand reaching out in an attempt to smooth down my hair, a move with I avoid quickly as my lip curls and twitches in a snarl. “I love children. I love having the chance to see them grow and reach their full potential. It saddens me when there is one who needs help.” As she finishes, her attention is drawn to the door where Posey is standing, motioning to get Celestia’s attention.

“And what about you? Why care about what happens to some kid you never met before, huh?”

Before she answers, she reaches out and turns my head till I’m looking straight at her. Despite my snarling, she answers calmly and in a somewhat saddened voice. “Because up until recently I never had a family of my own before. I never had friends before. I had a mentor who tried to teach me everything she knew, but I was too….. prideful and….. stupid to pay attention. Eventually I ran away from her and spent a couple years on my own. I was so….. angry and hurt that I turned bitter and basically a….. grade A bitch. Thanks to my friends, I was able to see that the path I was on was wrong and they helped guide me onto a better path. Now that I am there, I wish to extend that offer to you. I can tell you that it won’t be easy or all fun and games. But the reward is more than worth the risk.”

As she speaks I can’t help but feel the weight of the truth of her words. Can I….. can I really have that kind of….. peace and happiness again? “I….. how can I know I can trust you? Or Celestia, or Chrysalis or Luna huh? How do I know that you guys won’t just be a repeat of the hell my life has been?”

“I know it’s hard, but the first step in learning to trust someone is to give them the chance to show you they truly want to help.”

Chapter Eight; Ultimatums- Chrysalis

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter Nine; Cracks in the Armor- Moonshade

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter Ten; Decision- Chrysalis

Author's Note

Alright, for those of you who have enjoyed this story this is unfortunately the last chapter for it. But do not fret, for a continuance will be in the works shortly. In the meantime if you haven't read them already go ahead and browse over my other stories, to include Equestria Moonshade.

Chapter Ten; Decision- Chrysalis

"What in the hell were you thinking? Taking that girl away from her home without any reason? Do you know what kind of mess you just made for me?” Posey looks at me from across the desk, giving me a glare that nearly freezes my blood while rendering my body immobile.”You have no idea the jeopardy you put yourself and I in, do you? Hell, I bet this could cause trouble with Moonshade’s situation and maybe even Sunset’s.”

Damn, this woman would be all powerful, if she weren’t so concerned with helping others. She scares the crap out of me at times. Finally, after an eternity, she relents with a stressful sigh while sinking into her chair. “I may have been angry Pose, but you should know I’m not stupid, or reckless….. well, too reckless.” The returning glare forces the correction. Damn, she knows me too well. “I used my dummy bike, I gave them a fake phone number and I made sure not to leave finger prints. Hell, I even used a prosthesis mask when I visited them, they can’t identify me.”

“I hope you’re right, for the sake of those three girls I hope you are. However, we do have a problem that will need to be fixed. Lily. Until we can get things sorted out with this mess, someone is going to have to not only care for her, but, and I can’t believe I’m saying this, we will need to hide her for the time being.” With a bang, her forehead smashes against the desk top as she rubs at her temples with a groan. “For tonight you can take her, but I want her back here first thing tomorrow morning, got it?”

“Alright, I’ll drop her off around five. Now, are you done lecturing me? If so, I need to hit a store before it closes.”

“Go, I need to talk to Celestia and Luna anyway.” Her hand weakly shoos me out the door as her head remains planted on the desk.

As I open the door and exit, Lily is standing on the right side of the door, her arms are folded across her chest and her gaze is fixed on the floor. “So uhm….. What is gonna happen with me now?” Her tone nearly breaks my heart as I can tell how close to tears she is.

I hope she couldn’t hear any of that. My arm rests across the girl’s shoulders, which causes her to flinch and tense at the action. “Well, for tonight you’re coming home with me, but first we need to get you a couple more changes of clothes. Tomorrow you’re coming back here and spending the day with Posey.” As she relaxes against me, I look down and notice her wide smile. She is something special, being able to smile like that and trust strangers despite what she possibly lived through. Maybe she is the key to helping Moonshade out of her shell. “Here, you’ll have to wear my backpack until we get home.”

All through the drive to the store I can barely hear the girl’s laughter as we weave through traffic and hit small bumps, which brings a smile of my own despite one thought circling my mind. Why would someone be so….. Evil to cause harm like that to such a sweet girl?

Once parked and the helmets removed, her smile from earlier has only grown bigger as she wraps her arms tightly around my waist before taking my hand. “Thank you for getting me away from my parents. They….. They were…..”

“Don’t mention it, and you don’t have to talk about them right now. I guess you enjoyed riding the bike, huh?”

“Yea, it was kinda fun. Think you could….. when I get my license and stuff….. teach me how to ride?”

“Sure thing kid, but right now let's focus on getting you some clothes. Don’t worry about how much it’ll cost, though we may be limited to at most three outfits. Then how about some Chinese for a late dinner?”

With a squeal and another hug, we beeline straight for the clothes section. With an amused chuckle, I watch as she goes through the different selections available, mumbling a few things. “Wish we had a bigger backpack or a car, there were a few items I found that I liked alot. Think we can stop by here tomorrow when I’m done talking with Posey?”

“That is up to her, I won’t be able to pick you up due to work. And that is depending on if she’ll continue to let me keep you in first place.” Lily’s hopeful smile as we stand in the checkout line not only hardens my resolve to help, but to also adopt these two girls.

With the clothes bought and folded into the backpack, we speed off to the nearest Chinese restaurant. This must be what it’s like having a daughter. With a smile hidden behind my helmet, we find a place to park.

“What are you smiling about mo- Chrysalis?”

“Oh, just a thought I had on the ride here. Ever had Chinese before?” When we get to the place and wait to be seated, I notice that she’s anxiously eyeing the bathroom while still holding the backpack. “If you need to, go ahead.”

“No I haven’t had Chinese before, I’ll be right back.” I swear the girl ran off faster than a bullet as she heads to the bathroom.

“Do you wish to wait for your daughter, miss?”

Daughter, hm….. I kinda like hearing that. “Sure.” After ten minutes, I’m starting to regret my decision a little. At the twenty minute mark, I can’t help but start to feel a little impatient and just as I’m about to go to the bathroom, Lily comes out wearing one of the new outfits that I bought her, to including the new pair of boots and headband. “So that is what took you so long, huh? Why not wait till we got to my place?”

Once we’re seated, I notice her demeanor has changed. Instead of the bright and happy girl she has been, her mood darkens a little. “I….. I didn’t want to wear anything they bought me anymore, now that….. Now that I’m free of them. I hate them, both of them. I….. I know it’s wrong but I can’t help it. It….. it hurts me to say that of my own parents.” Sadly, she lays her head on her folded arms on the table as we wait for our food.

“I know sweetie, and I don’t blame you for how you feel. If you want to talk about it how long have you lived with them?”

“All my life. They’re….. they were my birth parents.” With a sniffle, she looks up at me as tears begin to form in her eyes. “How…… How could they have….. why would they hurt their own daughter?”

Chapter Five; Dream- Moonshade

“Don’t you know it’s getting close to curfew, kid?” The officer in front of me tries to get a look at my face, but thanks to the deep hood and my smaller stature makes it hard. On the other hand, I notice the officer is young with white skin, blue eyes and his hair is a combination of light blue, blue and dark blue.

“I’m sorry officer, I must have lost track of time. I needed some screws for a project at school.” Keep calm, he doesn’t have any probable cause to search or detain you. I go through a quick breathing exercise as I answer, fighting against the rising anxiety and desire to run. “I’m not….. in any trouble am I?”

“No you aren’t. But can I see your I.D. please?”

“Oh….. uhm…..” I make a show of digging through my pockets slowly so as not to alarm him. Fuck, he’s gonna see through this. Did I miss something, a camera? Or did someone see me enough to recognize my face? “Sorry officer, but I must have left it at home.”

“Where do you live, miss? And have you seen this girl around?” He holds out a picture towards me which I accept, my hand trembling a little. “Miss, are you ok?”

“Huh? What do you…..” Shit shit shit, damn these sleeves. The one thing I like about them and one decides to betray me now? Damnit. Staring back at me is my bare wrist, criss crossed with multiple scars going in every which direction and are made at various lengths. Along with the scars is a long cut that is only a few days old and is the longest, going from mid forearm to heel of the palm of my hand.

“Miss, I’m going to have….. HEY!” The anxiety is too much for me to keep under control any longer, and in a panic, I turn and get ready to run. Unlike my run from yesterday, this one is nothing but sheer panic, my fear overriding all sense, including watching the path ahead of me.

A few steps into my blind rush, I feel my left ankle roll as it lands on something uneven and a little slippery. The pain is increased as I feel a sharp yank in my left shoulder as I fall. My scream of pain only lasts for a second or two before the waves crash through me, smothering my consciousness into darkness.

~~~~~ ~~~~~ ~~~~~

“Wake up Moonshade, you’re going to be late.” In annoyance, I swat at the words as they buzz around me, not wanting to open my eyes or leave this extremely comfortable cushion I’m on. The buzzing continues around my head and only gets louder until eventually I open my my eyes.

Taking a good look around, I find myself on a beach for some reason, though it seems like I’m the only one. Groaning, I stand up and can’t seem to find the source of the words or buzzing that woke me up. All I can see is beautiful white sand and the crystal clear water lazily slapping against the shore. Where am I? Is this some kind of dream? Or has the last eleven years of my life been nothing more than a nightmare while I was passed out?

Without a reply, I start walking up and down the beach, smiling as I enjoy the warmth. That is, until I stop close enough to the water and glance at it. Instead of what I expected to see, I just stop as an image plays out in the water, though I’m not close enough to make it out. This must be the dream, then.

Every time I try to get a better look at what is going on, the waves mess up the image. After trying for six times, eventually I make my way up a small rise which gives me the best view of the body of water. What I was having a problem viewing from the beach comes in sharply from my new elevated spot. The playing image only causes me to sink to my knees as my legs go weak.

Below me is a memory of when I was three. All it is is myself with mom and dad out in the woods, camping. It’s night, and dad has a roaring campfire going with marshmallows being roasted. A harsh chuckle escapes my throat as I can feel tears start to stream down my cheeks as sound eventually comes from somewhere. “Guess what, Moonshade?” mom asks, her voice nearly angelic and soft as she tries to distract me from wanting to go near the fire for the twenty some odd time.

“Wha mommy?” The sound of my younger self speaking as she looks at mom brings back another harsh chuckle mixed with a sob.

“You’re going to be an older sister, princess.” Dad is the one to answer, but the scene disappears before it can continue, leaving the water clear again and me still on the ridge. My bare knees are hugged tightly as I bury my face in them.

I….. I….. Another sound breaks my train of thought as a new image begins to play. This one is much sadder, as I’m now four and mom is laying on a hospital bed. I’m sitting next to her, hoping she’ll wake up as the machine beeps slowly. On the table next to her is a picture of dad in his uniform, a purple heart draped over a corner. No….. please….. don’t….. I don’t want to relive this.

Before I can watch any more I hide my gaze in my knees and try to drown out the sounds of the EKG machine flat lining and my four year old voice rising in panic mixed with the shouts of the doctors and nurses. “Princess, why are you tormenting yourself like that?”

It….. it….. Cautiously I look behind me, not believing what I just heard. Sure enough both dad and mom are standing behind me, mom is holding something wrapped in a blue blanket. For what seems like an eternity we just stand there, looking at each other until finally I scramble as fast as I can, wrapping my arms around dad.

“I missed you too sweetie, we all do.” Dad’s voice is sad but his arms holding me tight are just how I remember them.

“Say hello to your little brother, Moon.” Mom’s interruption comes after a few minutes, a sad smile graces her lips as she hands the small bundle to me.

As much as I want to I refuse to hold him for now and turn to face dad. “Why….. it….. why did you have to go over there dad? Why did you have to go and kill yourself? Why did you sacrifice yourself? DID YOU NOT LOVE US ANY MORE?”

Before I can collapse, dad hugs me again and pets me comfortingly, just as I remember how he used to when I was younger. “I never stopped loving you Moon, or your mom, that is why I went overseas. As for why did I sacrifice myself for others? That is hard to explain, there was no time to think, only act. I never imagined things would turn out this bad for you sweetie.”

“Can I….. is there a way I can stay here with you guys? I don’t want to ever go back there.”

Mom joins us as she puts the baby in a stroller. “I know you don’t, honey. It makes us sad seeing what you are going through, but it’ll sadden us even more if you give up. Besides, I think there are finally people who really want to help you.”

Instead of arguing, I just hug them even tighter before we break apart, the sounds of another memory starting up draws my attention. Quietly I walk over to the edge, stopping long enough to pick up my newborn brother carefully. Mom and dad walk up behind me and we just stand there, watching silently as the memory that plays isn’t one of mine, but dad’s, back when he first met mom.

Eventually, the silence is broken by mom after we watched the wedding play out. “As much as we would love to stay with you Moon, our time is running short. Please, be strong for us and trust that things will change for the better. I know they will and sooner than you think, as long as you are willing to try.”

“And what if I decide to just end it all right now?”

“That would be the only way you can truly disappoint us, princess. As much as we want to be with you like this, we want you to live and overcome the horrors you have dealt with. Remember we love you and are always here with you.” Dad pulls me into another hug before stepping back, as he says the next part he places a finger on my chest, just over my heart and another on my forehead. “In here and in here. Now, continue to be strong and make us proud, sweetie.”

I watch as they start to disappear, the last sensation I feel is of my brother’s hand reaching out and gripping a finger tightly and his cooing is the last thing I hear. Then the rest of the scene begins to fade away, once again engulfing me in darkness.

~~~~~ ~~~~~ ~~~~~

Strange sounds and muffled voices surround me as rough cloth surrounds me to the point where it starts to itch. Things slowly begin to clear up as my shifting draws attention. A blurry face swims in front of my vision as I blink rapidly, trying to get rid of the bright spots blinding me. “Hey sweetie, how are you feeling?”