Story of Diane Pie: Strange Things

Chapters

Chapter 1 - What to do next
Chapter 2 - Discord
Chapter 3 - All Fun and Games
Chapter 4 - Sudden Visit
Chapter 5 - Meeting with Old Friends
Chapter 6 - Study, Study, Study....
Chapter 7 - Sisterly Understanding
Chapter 8 - Emptiness part 1
Chapter 9 - Emptiness part 2
Chapter 10 - Confession

Chapter 1 - What to do next

Some time went by after I got my Cutie Mark and nothing else has been going on lately.... I help Tough Love with her bakery/café, I help Miss Jubilee with her cherry-picking business every once in a while, I foal-sit Day and Charm, and I spend time with Bitter Sweet as one of his regular patients. Aside from all those things, nothing else is really going on. But on the bright side, with all the work I have done at the bakery/café, I've made some money of my own. I just need to figure out what to do with it. But right now, I'm just enjoying my life. Today on a Saturday around 1:34 pm, I was working at the bakery/café like always and then I see Miss Jubilee, Day, and Charm walk on in.

"Hey Diane! Hey Tough Love! What's up?!" Charm is as loud as ever. All the customers looked at him like he was making an announcement.

"Oh, you're all here...! And Charm, could you please keep your voice down? You're disturbing the other customers." Tough Love and I stopped working as they arrived.

"And glad to be here~! It's not often we visit. So here we are~!" Now Miss Jubilee is disturbing the customers. Well, they mean well.

"Can I have a piece of strawberry cake, please?" They all took their seats and waited for me to take their orders.

"Alright, that is a piece of strawberry cake for Day. What about you Charm? Miss Jubilee?" I was ready to write down their orders.

"I'd like a blueberry muffin, please!" Charm, please keep your voice down.... The customers laughed at his childish demeanor.

"Nothing for me. I ate before we got here." I wrote down all their orders and took it to Tough Love. She got their orders ready and I served them. I talked to them about some random things while I served the other customers. It was just another day at the bakery/café and I enjoy these kinds of days. I couldn't really ask for anything else right now. After a little while, I took their plates away after Day and Charm finished their orders.

"So where is Bitter Sweet? Is he busy right now?" I never see him visit this place at all since I started working here.

"He doesn't visit here. He has this café he goes to called 'Warm Morning'. And it's nearby his office." Tough Love sounded annoyed when she answered my question. Does she still not like Bitter Sweet? Well, it's not really my business. I've noticed they started getting along a little bit lately.

"Alright you two, let's go. Love and Diane need to get back to work. The money is on the table." Miss Jubilee placed the payment for their orders on the table and got out of her seat.

"AWW!" Charm and Day were both disappointed as they got out of their seats.

"Don't worry, you two. We'll see you two when we're done with work." We still had some hours left before closing time.

"Well, see you two later then. Bye~!" They then left the bakery/café and we then got back to work. We continued doing our job like normal and time went by like normal. Near 7:00 pm like always, we began to start closing time.

After we closed the bakery/café, we began to make our way back home. The sun was starting to set and I can't help but wonder how Princess Luna is doing. Being a princess must be really hard work. I'm just glad I work at a little bakery/café....

"So Diane, you're supposed to be one of Bitter's patients, right? If you don't mind me asking, what does he help you with exactly? It has been a few months since you two started. Is it serious...?" I was about to freeze after hearing Tough Love's question, but I didn't want to look suspicious. So I took a deep breath and composed myself.

"I don't want to talk about it with everpony yet.... It's kinda serious." I knew I wasn't ready to tell everypony my true identity yet.

"Alright then, have it your way. Whatever it is, I hope you get through it. We're here for you if you ever need help." Tough Love's words were comforting to hear. We continued on our way back home. As we walked, I keep wondering to myself if I'll ever be ready to tell anypony about what I am. How will they react? And just how long will this take before I actually tell them? I just don't know. Honestly, I just want to be with them and keep being my own pony. Also, I keep wondering how Pinkie Pie is doing. And...does she even know I'm here? I wish I had the answers to my questions. I'll just have to keep trying to find those answers step by step, I guess.... We finally got back home to see Day and Charm waiting for us to come back at the front door.

"Welcome home...!" They both cheered as we got back. They act like we've been gone for years. We then made our way up to the second floor to see Miss Jubilee making dinner like always and we then sat down on the couches to rest.

"Hey, is Bitter working late? I thought he would be here by now." Tough Love was right; it is a little late for Bitter Sweet to come back home from his office. We then heard the front door knocking and then some hoof-steps making their way towards us.

"Sorry to be so late, I was expecting a delivery from Canterlot today but the mail-pony got lost on her way to the city. Hard to miss a big city with tall buildings and such." Bitter Sweet walked into the room and then sat down.

"A mare came by your office? What did she look like? Was she cute?" Charm is such a child....

"She was just a gray Pegasus with a blonde mane and tail. Her eyes were kinda cute, but I'm not looking for a marefriend." Bitter Sweet then magically levitated a book over to himself and began to read it. This Pegasus he mentioned sounded familiar to me. Oh well....

"Alright everypony, I hope you're all hungry because dinner is ready~! Salads with ranch and freshly baked butter bread~!" Miss Jubilee got all of our dinner plates and the smell of the buttered bread was heavenly. Like always, we sat at the dinner table and enjoyed our dinner. After that, we got ready for bed and we went to bed for another day to arrive. This is the kind of life I wanted and I hope nothing ruins it.

Chapter 2 - Discord

It was the early morning when I woke up and I was about to go to work. I washed my face and straightened my mane and tail, and I walked downstairs to see Tough Love making some breakfast. If my nose is right, I can smell the sweet scent of pancakes.

"Good morning, Diane. I already made your plate of pancakes and set them right over there." She pointed at a plate of pancakes only a few inches to her right. I grabbed them, got the syrup, and began to enjoy my breakfast. The sweet taste quickly woke me up.

"So tell me, what's going on between you and Bitter? Jubilee has been teasing you two lately and I'm actually curious." I really wish this topic would just stop....

I gave a bothered sigh, "Listen, there is nothing going between Bitter and I. I'm just a patient of his."

"You say that, Diane, but you two have been at this for a while now. In fact, a few months. I'm not going to ask, but we are here for you. Remember that, alright?" I felt a little relieved from her words, but I'm not sure if it was enough convince me yet.... We then finished our breakfast, left the building, and then made our way to the bakery/café. We opened up and the usual customers began coming in like always and the day was going like always. But then at around 3 pm, a very, very unusual customer came into the bakery/café. He was very tall, he had wings, horns, a snake-like body, and he had the face of a goat. He walked in wearing a fancy suit, a top hat, and he had a cane, almost like he was dressed for a special occasion. He took his seat and every pony gave him a surprised look.

"Pay me no mind, little ponies. I'm here only to enjoy some sweets and a coffee. I am just a customer." He then snapped his...tail and the order pamphlet appeared in his talon. I walked up to this strange customer to take his order.

"Would you like to order, sir?" I don't know what to make of this creature. He seemed nice enough, but something about him seemed strange.

"I would like a red velvet cupcake and a coffee with cream. I'm expecting a meeting with the Princesses after my long absence. So I would like to enjoy something sweet after so long." I wrote down his order and gave it to Tough Love to make. The customers and I have no idea what to make of this customer. I served him like any other customer and he began to enjoy the cupcake. He looked like he really has been gone for a long time. He must be nice if he knows Princess Luna. He then finished his order and placed his payment on the table.

"Oh, how I missed the taste of sweets! My compliments." He then tipped his hat and left his seat.

"Um...glad you enjoyed it." Not even Tough Love knew how to react to this new customer. Just before he left the bakery/café, he gave me this....look. I'm not sure how to describe it, but he seemed...intrigued by me. Does he...know what I am? Honestly, I had shivers. He then left with a poof of smoke like he was in a magic show. The day went on like always and we ended the work day without a problem. I asked some of the customers if they knew who that creature was, and I found out that he was the Spirit of Chaos, Discord. Now that I heard the name, I think I remember Pinkie Pie and her friends facing this creature and defeating him a few months ago. But...my memory is fuzzy. Luckily for me, Tough Love keeps a lot of articles for the customers to read in a rack of newspapers and there was an old article that actually talked about Discord as a big topic. I read one of them during my lunch break and apparently he has the power to bend reality and make it his toy. But it only happened in Ponyville and was even defeated. But then he was brought back to become allies with Princess Celestia. This was even confirmed by Princess Celestia and her student, Twilight Sparkle. I guess Discord liked to start small. Hard to believe this powerful creature would rather enjoy a cupcake in a small bakery/café than play with reality. I then went back to work to finish the work day and nothing crazy happened. Tough Love and I then began to close up the bakery after another good day's work.

"So Diane, what do you think about that tall creature from earlier? He seemed...odd." I agree with Tough Love. He wasn't really normal. She was about to close up the shop before leaving.

"Well, he did enjoy the cupcake. He seemed nice to me." I just finished putting away the plates and cups and joined her at the entrance. We then left after closing the bakery/café and then made our way back home.

"Well, today went well. I don't know who that creature was, but if he going to be regular customer, then that's fine by me." Tough Love seemed happy to have a new customer for her bakery/café. We then arrived back home to see Day sitting alone at the front porch with a confused look on her face.

"Day...? Um...we're back. Is something wrong?" Tough Love and I were about as confused as Day looked.

"Big Sis, do you know a goat-guy? He's upstairs." That was a weird question and we then remembered who that might be. We then rushed upstairs to see Discord enjoying a cup of tea with Miss Jubilee and Bitter Sweet. Charm was giving Discord a confused look too.

"Welcome back, you two~! We have a new quest paying us a visit~! His name is Discord~!" Miss Jubilee was still her rather cheerful self. Even with a guest we know very little about.

"Discord...? So that's your name? You were at my bakery earlier."

"So you met already, Love? Any reason why he wanted to pay a visit?" We all wanted to know the answer to Bitter Sweet's question.

"Consider this a request from a certain blue Princess. She wanted me to check on a friend of hers and I wanted enjoy the sights. I must say, the big city is quite a sight. I should come here more often." He must be referring to Princess Luna. I guess they might be friends. he then walked up to me and gave me that same look from earlier.

"Diane, you are an very interesting pony. In fact, I could have quite a bit of fun getting to know you. Yes, I think I might." I have a bad feeling about his definition of 'Fun'.

"Dude, this guy is so weird...." I wholeheartedly agree with Charm.

"Well, I think I'm done here. I hope you all enjoy your evening and a good night. Ta-tah!" He then disappeared with another magic show-style poof. And he left us with nothing but confusion. Especially me....

"Well, he seemed nice. I hope we see him again." Miss Jubilee, the ever so optimistic one. I just hope Discord doesn't make a habit out of paying us a visit. Though, what he said to me earlier only made me feel uneasy. He seemed to know a few things about me and I want to know how he does. Sigh...I serious mixed feelings about this Discord-person.

Chapter 3 - All Fun and Games

Another day came and nothing strange happened at first...but around noon, the buildings all over the city began bouncing up and down like blobs of jello, the streets were all turned yellow, and the pigeons became as big as cows! Tough Love and I were working at the bakery/café again, but we were having a hard time doing that with the plates and silverware having wings and flying all over the place. Obviously, I knew Discord had something to do with this....

Tough Love gave an annoyed groan, "This is driving me...CRAZY! What is going on here?!" She tried gathering the plates and silverware, but they just flew away again.

"Now don't be mad, little pony. I'm only having some fun. You should have a sense of humor." Discord just happened to be sitting on one of the tables enjoying a cup of tea.

Tough Love then glared at Discord, "YOU! You did this! Cut it out already! This is not funny!" I was also a little annoyed by Discord tricks.

"Now, now, I'm just adding a bit of a personal touch to everypony's boring lives. A little bit of chaos here and there. All for a little bit of fun." Discord just chuckled as he enjoyed his fun. Honestly, I'm glad he's just messing around and not doing anything too crazy.

"Enough! How am I supposed to work in my own bakery if all my plates, forks, and spoons keeping flying away?! This is not fun for me!" Tough Love has always been serious about her baking.

Discord sighed, "Fine, have it your way." He then snapped his tail and everything inside the bakery/café went back to normal. Thank Luna because Tough Love was starting to scare me.

"Thank you...." She then opened up one of the cabinets and suddenly a cloud of flour exploded and we found ourselves covered in it.

"Now that is funny!" Discord started laughing as we started dusting off the flour. Such a waste....

"Well, I think I will take my leave now. Have fun!" He then popped like a balloon and that was the last we saw of him.

"I don't like that guy...." I agree with Tough Love. And my mane and tail are both filled with flour. After nearly three long hours of cleaning up the flour, we finally opened the bakery/café, but the customers didn't come like usual. Discord's antics must be keeping them from visiting. And it gets worse with Tough Love and I having to close the bakery/café early because of all the crazy things going on in the city. I feel so un-accomplished.... Thankfully, no ponies are getting hurt from all this chaos and I hope this stays. Of course, Day and Charm got an early release from school so Tough Love and I picked them up and took them to the park to enjoy a free day.

"Dude, this is too cool. That Discord-guy is the best." Charm was enjoying his early release a little too much.

"The houses look so funny!" Day was enjoying the weird way the houses bounce. I feel dizzy just watching them bounce.

"I am not letting that guy in my bakery again...." Tough Love was still very angry at Discord. I feel the same way. We still enjoyed our time at the park. We enjoyed a good carrot-dog and the day was still beautiful. After a little time in the strangely-colored city, we all went back home to enjoy the rest of the day. We all went up to the second floor to see a very annoyed Bitter Sweet.

"Hey Bro, what's up? Having an awesome day like us?" He sure didn't look like it.

"That creepy, immature, bothersome Discord! I was expecting my delivery to arrive TODAY and the mail mare that was supposed to deliver it, but she can't! I got a notice stating that due to an event that occurred in her hometown, she is too scared to even go near Manehatten! And it's all that Discord's fault!" I guess even Bitter Sweet had a busy day today, but Discord ruined it. This has been a big mess for businesses today. We all sat down in the living room and talked about some stuff. Charm read his comics, Day played with her dolls, and Tough Love read her romance novels like always. Bitter Sweet continued to vent his frustrations until he finally calmed down. Around 7:56 pm, we heard the sound of the front door opening and hoof steps walking up the stairs.

"I'm back~! And it looks like you all got off early~!" Miss Jubilee arrived with a bag full of cherries and with a smile on her face.

"You look like you had a good day...." Tough Love was still upset about earlier. So was I....

"Oh...I heard about what happened in Manehatten today. Businesses had to be closed early because of Discord. He made the city bounce or something...." She is taking these weird events rather well. She does leave the city more often than we do.

"Well, everything is back to normal now. I saw the roads turn from yellow back to black and gray and the buildings stopped bouncing. I'm sure tomorrow will be better." We then all looked outside and the city went back to normal like Miss Jubilee said. It was a slight relief.

Bitter Sweet gave a sigh, "I just hope this doesn't happen again.... I'm going to my room." He then left. He must have had a very disappointing day. Tough Love and I can relate....

"I only wanted you ponies to have some fun. Surely you all can appreciate that." A familiar voice echoed from out of nowhere.

"Discord, is that you?! Show yourself!" Tough Love became angry again.

"He's in my comic book...!" Charm then dropped his comic on the ground and then Discord slithered out of the comic.

"I must say, I've quite enjoyed this day of fun and chaos. You all got a day off thanks to me. You should be thanking me." He literally presented himself on a pedestal upon his entrance. He's unsurprisingly narcissistic....

"Thank you...!" Day and Charm both gave their usual group cheer.

"Charm, Day, don't...." Tough Love wasn't having it any more.

"Well, I've had my fun. I'm just going to take my leave now. I hope to see you again. Farewell." He then vanished in a flash. There was no trace of him and that's fine by me.

"He's kinda cool."

"I wish I could agree with you, Charm...." Today was just annoying. I was starting to get a headache. Afterwards, we settled down to enjoy dinner, got ready for bed, and I joined Bitter Sweet. I see him looking over some of his papers. He looks calmer right now.

"I'm glad you and the others had a fun day despite all that happened. I hope this doesn't happen again...." Bitter Sweet then began putting away his papers as he got ready for bed.

"It was fine. Day and Charm had fun. I just wish the bakery didn't have to close." I still feel empty from that happening.

"You really like that place, huh? Having fun?" Bitter Sweet then began making his bed.

"I guess I do. It's one of the things that makes me a real pony." I wouldn't give that up for anything. I then got in bed and was about to fall asleep.

"Good night, Bitter Sweet." I closed my eyes as I fell into a nightly slumber.

"Good night, Diane. Sleep well." Bitter Sweet then went to bed. After a day like today, I am ready to have another boring one tomorrow.

Chapter 4 - Sudden Visit

It's been a few days since the Discord incident and Manehatten became calm again. It was an early Saturday and my day off from working at the bakery/café. I woke up and went to the kitchen to see Miss Jubilee taking a day off herself and making breakfast. I think I smell cinnamon rolls. But unfortunately to my displeasure, I see Discord sitting on one of the couches in the living room.

"Good morning, Diane~! I hope you like my cinnamon rolls too~! And we have a guest~!" Miss Jubilee is taking this nuisance too lightly. She wasn't anywhere near Manehatten because she was in another town selling her cherries. I wish I was with her back then....

"Good morning. I came to spend some time with you. Because you need to have some fun every once in a while." Discord was drinking some tea I assume Miss Jubilee made. I was trying to hide my dis-taste for Discord's antics, but I knew I was failing.

"Mister Discord, I appreciate it, but I think I'm fine on my own. You really shouldn't trouble yourself." Anything to avoid being with this pest.... Suddenly, Discord quickly slithered up to me and looped his talons over my shoulder.

"Don't be a down, my dear. I insist. Miss Jubilee, we'll be back before dinner. Ta-tah!" Just before I could react, I found myself in another place entirely. It looked like another house, but everything is out of place, upside down, and reversed everywhere. The couch was on the ceiling, the front door was on the floor, and the stairs were built so that you had to walk upside down. There was nothing right about this place and I became very dizzy.... I then noticed Discord taking a seat on the couch.

"I'm sorry for the sudden invite, but I wanted to talk to you. After all, you're not like any pony I've encountered in the last few days I came back from stony prison. And Princess Luna has been worried about you." He then waved his finger and a chair scooted over to me, but it really small. The tiny chair aside, I do not want to talk about myself and I walked over to the door on the floor.

"I hate to be rude, but I am leaving and going back home. I just woke up and I need my coffee and my brea-" Just before I could finish my sentence, I opened the door and what I saw was a swirling darkness and many floating islands with strange creatures flying around. I then quickly closed the door and then took my tiny seat.

"I'll take you back home when I am done talking with you. When I first saw you, I noticed you reminded me of another pony. What was her name again...? She looked an awful lot like you. Except, she knows how to smile." He then took a tea cup and then ate it. He is just too weird. I already know the pony he was talking about.

"You're talking about Pinkie Pie, right? I don't want anything to do with her." I mean it when I say that. I am my own pony and my Cutie Mark is proof of that.

"Ah yes, I see that. I'm not doubting that, but that's what intrigues me. Being made from the magic of the Mirror Pool and yet becoming your own pony is certainly new to me." He knows about how I was made?! Now that I know he does, maybe he can help me.

"Then...if you know what I am, then can you tell me how I came to be exactly? What did the Mirror Pool do?" Maybe this could help me figure out what I am.

"I haven't the slightest idea. I do know there is a book that might have the answer, but it's very old. It was written by a certain bearded Unicorn a very long time ago. And it is most likely lost...." He then began eating another tea cup. After hearing that from a supposedly ancient creature, I began to lose hope.

"That is what I am talking about, Diane. You're nothing like the pony you came from. Pinkie Pie is full of joy and energy, and yet you don't even know how to smile. And that is why I have brought you here. You and I are going to have a fun day together!" He finished his eating his tea cup and then he put on a coat and grabbed and umbrella. I don't like where this is going....

"Let's go! Road trip!" He then grabbed me again and then we found ourselves in a place full of white stuff. I looked around and saw a bunch of Pegasi flying around and then I felt like falling from the sky! And it turns out I was really falling from the sky!

"DISCORD!!!!!!" I cried as I made my rapid decent and then I was stopped by Discord grabbing me from falling. I then squeezed him tight to avoid falling again.

"Sorry about that, Diane. But I forgot to mention our first stop being Cloudsdale, the home of Pegasi. And yes, it is in the sky." I nearly died because Discord didn't tell me we were going to be in the sky!

"Discord, NEVER do that again!" I was so scared...! Discord then flew back up to Cloudsdale and I was placed on the only strip of solid ground I could stand on. It was a runway for the Pegasi to take flight.

"Now let us join the sights. This is my first time visiting too, you know." Discord then placed me on his slithery back and we then began to tour the city made of clouds and rainbows. The Pegasi all gave us odd looks, but I was too amazed to actually see this amazing city.

"According to Princess Celestia, this city is famous for it's weather factory and for it's famous flight team, the Wonderbolts. The Pegasi spend their days planning the weather for every place in Equestria and making clouds and rainbows. I believe Rainbow Dash is quite good at that." I do remember fuzzy images of a big colorful explosion when Pinkie and I were little. That must have been Rainbow Dash when she was young. She never ceases to amaze me. We continued to explore the cloudy city and then Discord stopped.

"Well, I think we are done here. Time for stop number two and don't worry, we'll be on the ground." Discord snapped his finger and we then found ourselves somewhere really warm. We were in the middle of a desert, and near a familiar place: Apploosa. I then realized this was going to be a long day....

Chapter 5 - Meeting with Old Friends

Discord and I stopped at Apploosa and grabbed a bite to eat because I was really hungry. Discord paid for our meals and then we toured the town. I didn't get the chance to do so all that much last time I was here, so I felt this was a good chance. We visited the saloon, the rodeos, and the square dances. Discord couldn't join the square dances because he was too tall. I didn't dance either because I don't know how. Afterwards, we took a break after running around so much and just enjoyed the sight of the desert. We just sat on a bench on the outside of town without saying anything. I didn't know what to say to Discord, since I don't really know much about him. But what he said to me earlier does concern me.

"Discord, can I ask you something?" I don't know if he can answer my question, but I had to ask.

"Yes...?" Discord looked at me with his yellow eyes. I could tell they were old.

"Am I...real? I need to know." The question laid so heavy on my heart, I felt like my breathing was being suffocated. Discord just looked at me and then turned away with a huff.

"That is something you have to find out for yourself. I may be powerful and ancient, but I don't have all the answers. Besides, it isn't any of my business." I figured he was going to say something like that. Life is never that easy.... We then see a herd of buffalo running across the plains and then I hid behind Discord.

"Is there something wrong, Diane?" Discord turned his head in a 180 degree angle. I continued to hide from the buffalo.

"Um...I remember Pinkie Pie starting a war between those buffalo and the ponies here by singing. I don't want them to see me...." I don't they would like to see a pony who looks almost exactly like Pinkie Pie. Then a thought occurred and I then rushed off.

"Going somewhere, Diane? Something you want to see?" Discord slithered beside me as I ran.

"I'm meeting with some...family." I continued to run towards the house owned by Apple Jam. Surely she wouldn't mind me paying a visit. But before I knocked on her door, I turned to Discord.

"Discord, this pony I know is really nice and I don't want to cause her any trouble. So I want you to behave yourself. Alright?" I know Discord likes to drive ponies crazy with his fun and games.

"Alright, I will behave. I promise not to trouble her." A halo then appeared above his head. I still don't trust him.... I then knocked on the door and waited or an answer. The door then opened and I saw Cherry Jam.

"Oh, Diane...! It's been a while!" I'm glad Miss Jam remembers me. She seems to be doing well.

"Hello Jam...! It has been a while! It's so good to see you!" We hugged each other.

"AHEM! I believe you two are forgetting something." Discord just looked at us with a pouty face.

"Oh, who is your friend, Diane? Is he out of town?" She took a look at Discord and was surprised.

"His name is Discord. He's...a friend." I'm actually not sure if he is my friend or not.

"A pleasure to meet you, miss." He then conjured a bouquet of flowers and presented them to Miss Jam.

"Why thank you. They're lovely!" Just before she could smell them, the flowers then deflated like balloons. I knew Discord was going to do something like that....

"Just a little humor, miss." Discord chuckled as the balloon flowers disappeared. Miss Jam then chuckled.

"That was funny...! Please, come inside! You two must be tired from travelling all the way from Manehatten." We then entered inside and made ourselves at home. The place was as roomy as I remembered it and it was very quiet. Miss Jam served Discord and I some apple juice and some apple pie.

"So what might you two be doing here? Are you visiting?" We've been doing more than just visiting....

"I'm on a road trip and I invited Diane to join me! This is just stop number two! We won't be too long." More like Discord dragged me along for the ride....

"Really? You two must be having fun." I would tell Miss Jam that I nearly fell to my death a city in the sky, but I decided not to.

"By the way, how is Jubilee doing? Is she alright? And how have you been?" I then swallowed my tea to answer.

"Yes, she is. Miss Jubilee has been busy lately. I work at a bakery and I'm doing well. What about you?" We talked and talked for a little while and then we heard a ringing sound.

"Oh dear, look at the time. We must be on our way." Discord looked at a watch tied to his tail. He finished his tea cup and got out of his seat.

"We mustn't waste too much time, Diane. We still have much to do before night time." I do need to go back home before night time. I hope Miss Jubilee and everypony isn't worried about me.

"Alright, let's get going. Miss Jam, it was great seeing you again." I got out of my seat and stood by Discord.

"Well, if you two must. Be safe and don't be strangers. Come back any time." I nodded as I grabbed hold of Discord.

"Then it is time to leave. Good bye!" As he snapped, we then found ourselves in a big city. It was the city of Canterlot and it was as majestic as I remembered.

"This will be our last stop and afterwards, I will take you back home. Follow me." Discord then made his way towards a large building and I followed him. The inside was full of pretty objects that you would use as decorations for your house like old pottery, wind chimes, and even some old furniture. We walked up the stairs and eventually stopped at the top floor.

"Through that door, Diane. Somepony wants to see you." Discord pointed to what I assume was the balcony of the building. I walked through the door and then saw a cloaked figure looking at the city.

"Um...hello?" I wasn't sure who it was. Every part of this figure was covered in that large cloak and I became nervous. The figure turned and revealed herself.

"I am glad you're safe, Diane. I have been worried about you." It was Princess Luna and I felt so relieved.

"Princess Luna...!" I then hugged her out of joy. But then I realized I did something really dumb and jumped away from her.

"I am so sorry, Princess Luna...! I shouldn't have done that!" I lowered my head to pay respect. I hope I didn't make her angry.

"Calm yourself, Diane. I am not angry with you. I am very relieved to see you are safe. Please, sit down." She then presented a table with a tea pot, some tea cups, and pastries I assume were scones. I then sat down to join her.

"Well then, I will take my leave for now. Diane, I will be back in an hour. You two have fun now." Discord then disappeared and left me with Princess Luna. I'm glad I got the chance to speak with her.

"I am sorry to have been absent for some time, Diane. The duties I have just returned to have been keeping me quite busy. Protecting ponies from their nightmares and bringing night to the world is a task I must attend to." Princess Luna poured us a cup of tea and presented a scone for each of us.

"Oh no, it's alright! I'm just glad I can talk with you! I wanted to tell you that I'm doing alright!" I'm also glad she hasn't forgotten me.

"Please, tell me how you have been." I then began telling Princess Luna all that has happened to me since we last spoke. I told her that I have been busy at my job in the bakery/café, all the ponies I have met, about Day, Charm, Tough Love, and Bitter Sweet, and how I got my Cutie Mark. She is one of the few ponies I could actually talk to without worrying about whether I was real or not. We talked about stuff for nearly an hour and I had fun.

"It seems my worries were not needed. Knowing you are doing well fills me with relief. Though, I do have a reason for having you brought to me." I noticed the change of her tone of voice. It must be something serious and I listened carefully.

"I am aware of what you truly are, Diane, and that is troubling me. Especially since there are two of the same ponies in Equestria." I was confused. I understand what she meant, but not why she brought it up.

"Diane, you and Pinkie Pie are two sides of the same bit. And if something were to happen to one of you, what do you think would happen to the other?" After thinking it over, I then realized what she meant, and it gave me chills.

"If one of us were to get hurt....or worse, then the other would feel it too?" Thinking about that filled me with dread.

"This is only a theory, but I cannot take the risk. Diane, it is in your best interest to be very careful from now on. Do not forget that." I nodded, taking Princess Luna's warning to heart. Then Discord appeared from the spout of the tea cup.

"Well then ladies, I think it is time for Diane and I to go now. I spoke with Celestia and I hope you two are done too." I nodded as I finished my cup of tea and joined him.

"Thank you for this chance to speak with her, Discord. I owe you my gratitude." Princess Luna then spreads her wings as she prepared to take flight.

"Of course, Luna. Anything for a friend." Discord then snapped his talons and then we found ourselves back in Manehatten. I then noticed that the sun was starting to set. I guess it was time for Princess Luna to begin her nightly duties.

"Well, this has been fun. Thank you for your company, Diane. We should do this again soon. I'm sure you can find your way back home by yourself." Discord bent his entire body into different shapes and twisted it, stretching his muscles and popping his bones.

"Um...yes. Thank you, Discord." I was actually pretty tired myself after today.

"Well then, until next time. Ta-tah!" Discord snapped his talons again and then disappeared. Before I began making my way back home, I remembered Princess Luna's warning. Pinkie Pie, please be careful.... For both our sakes.

Chapter 6 - Study, Study, Study....

I have been gone for a very long time and there is a good reason for this. 1,000 years of banishment was brought upon myself because of my jealousy, my anger, and my feelings of neglect and betrayal. I have been filled with darkness and lost my way. But now, I have returned to the ponies I am duty-bound to protect and guide and to my the sister I am ashamed to have doubt all those years ago. And it was thanks to her student and her five friends that I can stand by my sister's side again. My name is Luna, I am the Princess of the Night and Walker of Dreams. It was a beautiful Sunday morning when I have finished raising the moon after my dream walking and I was just enjoying my breakfast. I sat in my room eating my freshly made toast until the door to my room opened with my sister, Celestia, walking inside with a smile on her face.

"Good morning, sister. Did you have a good night? Seen anything special last night?" Celestia sat down next to me to enjoy the morning.

"Sister, you know very well that the dreams of other ponies are to be private. I only travel into dreams when there is a nightmare involved." Ever since I came back to Equestria, my sister has been very clingy lately. Honestly, I cannot blame her. Even as Nightmare Moon, I must confess, I missed her as well.

"I know, Luna. I'm just curious. I've never seen the inside of another pony's dream before. You can tell me. I will never tell." Celestia chuckled, almost like she was teasing me.

I sighed, "Sister, I am not fond of childish gossip. Now if you will excuse me." I finished my toast and made my way out of my room.

"Where are you going, Luna? You've been a little distant lately. I'm concerned about you." She followed me out of my room. I cannot deny that I have been distancing myself from my sister lately.

"Sister, I told you before there is nothing wrong. I am merely going to the library. I have much history to read up on." Being gone for so long has not been kind to me. We entered the castle library where I have been spending most of my time studying on the 1,000 years worth of history that I have missed. I must familiarize myself on not just the past, but the present as well.

"Now if you will excuse me, sister, I must return to my studies. I still have much history to read and I must not be disturbed." I began to read another history book. Unfortunately for me, there are still many more to read.

"Alright Luna, I will leave you to it. If you need anything, please let me know." My sister then left the library to begin her day of royal duties. I was alone in the royal library and my studies continued. I have been studying on the history of Equestria ever since I returned and I have only scratched the surface. I have read four history books from cover to cover and in only seven hours. Not to sound arrogant, but I have always been a quick reader. But despite that, there was still so much history to read and retain. Many famous ponies throughout history have changed Equestria's way of living by leaps and bounds and I am very late. I then finally stopped my studies at 2:23 pm because I was very hungry. I made my way to the kitchen to find something to eat and I see a few of the castle servants working.

"Excuse me, is there something to eat here? I merely nee-" I was then interrupted when the servants stopped everything and quickly bowed to me.

"Greetings, my lady...! You wish for something to eat?! Please, wait right there!" All the servants then started running around the kitchen gathering all kinds of food such as pastries, vegetables, fruits, and even deserts.

"Please, my lady...! Enjoy to your heart's content!" Despite their intentions, I could feel the fear coming from them. I have grown used to this daily. This did not trouble me because I do know there are some ponies that have come to trust. I then levitated an red apple, a banana, and a loaf of bread to eat.

"This will be all. Return to what you were doing." I then left the kitchen to return to my daily studies after I finished my meal. As I read through the many books, I then came across a very old book written by Star Swirl the Bearded. It must have been mixed up with the history books by mistake. This caught my attention as it was a book titled, 'The Mirror Pool'. I was then reminded of Diane, the pony I have befriended some time ago and met near the Everfree Forest. I do remember that the Mirror Pool was located in the Everfree Forest, so I decided to take a look at what was written in the book. The letters were very old and a bit of it was faded by age, but it was still readable. Celestia and I knew Star Swirl long ago and he guided us to become great rulers. As I read this book he wrote, I couldn't help but wonder what he thinks of me after what I have done. He must be ashamed of me and my foolishness.... The book described the Mirror Pool to be a creation of the Everfree Forest. Not even Star Swirl knew the reason why. But he did discover that the pool can create copies of a single pony. Strangely enough, the copies do not have the same sentience as the real pony. While the copies can speak and act much like the real pony, they do not have the 'ability to act like a real pony' as written in the book. This confused me because Diane is beyond the kind of copy the book described, so I continued to read. Eventually, I found something very intriguing: There is a very small chance that one copy can obtain the same degree of sentience the real pony has. This single copy can think, talk, act, and even become their very own pony. I couldn't tell you how happy I was to find this piece of information. I read further and discovered that this special copy in question is comparable to a 'separate personality'. A 'sentient personality' given physical form and it's own being. My joy then became confusion as two questions came flooding my mind. Diane is a personality? How is Diane different from Pinkie Pie? I then remembered my first encounter of Diane in her dream and my later interactions with her. Diane came off as more negative and easily frightened at first, but then she became more positive and talkative, but not nearly as much as Pinkie Pie. They both look very similar in physical appearance, yet their personalities are quite different. Diane also came off as a more serious individual who has more focus on certain things while Pinkie Pie...not so much.

"LUNA!!!" The sound of my name rang loud in my ears and to my sudden surprise, I accidently shot a hole in the castle roof with my magic. It was my sister trying to get my attention because I was too caught up in my research. After we looked at the hole in the roof, I gave my sister an annoyed look.

"Sister, do you need something...? You know I do not like being snuck up like that." I took my attention away from the book to answer my sister's call for attention.

"I am so sorry for scaring you, Luna. But I was wondering if you would like to spend a little time with me. There is still time before you need to lower the moon and I am done with today's royal duties, so I figured you would like to spend some time out of this dusty old library." Celestia has been wanting to spend more time with me lately, but I haven't the luxury to do so.

"I do appreciate that, sister, but I mu-" I was then interrupted when she then looped her left wing over my shoulder and began pulling me away from my studies.

"Please, I insist...!" I was pulled out of the library despite my objections and then into Canterlot a few hours before my nightly duties. I feel like I was being kidnapped...by my own sister.

Chapter 7 - Sisterly Understanding

I was dragged into Canterlot by Celestia and away from my studies to 'mingle with the citizens' as she described it. We went to an art museum, a theatre, a fancy restaurant, and then to many clothing stores which took many hours. Thankfully, I could lower the moon from anywhere, so there was no need to worry about being late. But my nightly dream-walking duties have been pushed aside because my sister wouldn't let me go. And my studies were given that very same treatment.... It was 9:43 pm where we have reached our last stop to rest after such a long day. Celestia had picked a nice café for us to enjoy the night sky and talk about some things. She started talking about how she started her Academy for Gifted Unicorns and that she has seen many amazing Unicorns throughout history. I never thought my sister could become a teacher to be honest. It was the very same school where her very best student, Twilight Sparkle, the new Element of Magic, graduated from and was even scouted to become my sister's student. Though, for the most part, I wasn't too interested in such things at the moment. There were too many things for me to think about right now given my predicament. How can I enjoy the present if I have no idea what to expect? How can I enjoy the present if I have no knowledge of the past? And how can I live amongst my citizens without knowing how to actually do that? This troubled me greatly when I first came back to Equestria after my banishment. I've noticed the stares of the many citizens that live in Canterlot. I cannot blame them for being cautious. Even the clerk and the waitress became nervous when I entered into the café.... I suppose that is only fair.

"Luna, are you alright...? Am I boring you?" I then snapped out of my daze and returned to my sister's topic.

"Um...no, sister. I am fine. Please, continue." I panicked as I drank my tea. I could tell Celestia was looking at me with concern.

"Luna, what's wrong...? You can tell me. I am here for you." I didn't know what to say to her since I came back. So much has changed, I am not too sure what to say to her. Honestly, the guilt of my actions from 1,000 years ago still remains.

"Bit for your thoughts, sister?" Celestia then presented me with a single bit and placed it on the table. I cannot believe that phrase still exists after all those years.... We both shared a laugh at this very old joke. I gave a sigh and decided to answer my sister.

"Sister, I am still unsure if the ponies can really accept me in this day and age. Especially since my actions are still in the history books...." I've read enough history books that told of my sister's triumph over my...other side.

Celestia sighed, "I am sorry, sister, but those historians from long ago wanted to make sure that 'history was without any missing pages' and wouldn't stop pestering me about my victory. Instead of a victory as they described it, I found it as more of a painful reminder of what I did to you." She then embraced me. I have received many of these embraces since my return.

"I have missed you so much, Luna. I want you to know that...." She has told me that many times since my return and I have missed her too. I embraced her back.

"I know, sister. I have missed you too." We then left the café after paying the bill for our orders. We then returned to the castle to prepare for bed. We then went to the castle bathing room to wash up. Afterwards, we brushed our teeth, brushed each other's manes and tails, and dried off each other's wings. We used to do this all the time when we were young. Afterwards, we then made our way to bed.

"Good night, Luna. See you in the morning."

"Good night, Celestia. Sleep well." We gave each other our good nights and then went to bed. Like always, I began to travel through the dreams to protect the citizens of Equestria from their nightmares. It was a peaceful night and there were no nightmares to be seen through the countless doors that lead into dreams. I see all kinds of dreams where ponies are enjoying their favorite kind of food, doing many amazing acts that lead to fame and fortune, travelling to parts unknown by all, and even falling in love with the pony of their dreams. Though I see all this, I dare not say anything to expose them. A pony's dreams are a sacred thing and it is my duty to protect not just their dreams and state of mind, but also their privacy. It is something I have long neglected because of my foolish actions. Ironic that I, a protector of dremas would fall into my own nightmare and then become a nightmare myself. I was truly ashamed of myself.... I am determined to protect all from their nightmares. The only way a nightmare could be seen is when a darkness would leak out like smoke. So far, nothing has gone out of place until I found a single door nearing the end of the night. It was my sister's door and I dread to think what she could be dreaming. I then stepped through the door and darkness swallowed me whole. I quickly shined a light with my magic and I saw something utterly horrifying. A monstrous creature was draining the magic from a single Unicorn and he became something even more terrifying. I then woke up from my slumber and realized that something terrible was going to happen. He has returned and all of Equestria was in danger of something no nightmare can compare to.

Chapter 8 - Emptiness part 1

Monday morning and like always I wake up to see Diane still sleeping in bed. I'm still an early riser and my occupation demands it. It was 5 in the morning and I stepped downstairs to get ready for work. Everypony else was still asleep except for Miss Jubilee. She woke up early as well making breakfast.

"Good morning, Bitter Sweet~! Did you sleep well~?" Still full of energy, even at this hour. I sat down on one of the couches to spend a little time.

"Yes, I did. I doubt I could have slept at all if Diane didn't come back home last night. That strange creature Discord practically ponynapped her...." You can imagine how upset I was about that.

"I had no idea you like her so much, Bitter Sweet~! So when are you going to ask her out~?" I then slipped off the couch from that sudden question and then crashed on the floor. Every time there is a mare involved in my life in some way, large or minor, Miss Jubilee has to pester me about getting into a relationship with one....

"Miss Jubilee, for the last time, there is nothing going on between us. She is just one of my patients and that is all." I fixed my glasses and got back on the couch. Honestly, I'm starting to lose my patience with that question.

"You are such a drama king, Bitter Sweet. It doesn't hurt to have a sweetheart in your hooves. I mean, you don't want to be single for the rest of your life, right~?" Miss Jubilee just won't let up....

I sighed, "I told you, I have no interest in relationships right now. I have a career to think about and a relationship will only take up too much of my time. What's mor-"

"Yes, yes, work and careers, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.... You just never have time for fun...." Miss Jubilee was rude in more ways than one in that short sentence.

"I understand you have work to do, but you should also try taking it easy every once in a while. Smell the flowers, enjoy the sunlight, listen to the birds, something that does not have you stuck in your dusty office." She then finished making breakfast and then presented me with a newly baked muffin.

"Miss Jubilee, I do spend time outside. And my office is not dusty. I dust every two days and thoroughly. And I am quite proud of my work too." I then began to eat my muffin.

Miss Jubilee sighed, "You worry me, Sweetie. You worry me...." This mare loves to drive me crazy over this topic. I quickly finished my muffin and then began making my way to the stairway.

"I'm done with this conversation. I'll be leaving now. I'll see you all tonight." I then left the room to make my way out of the building.

"Try to have fun, Sweetie~!" I cannot believe she called me that.... 'Doctor Sweet' was enough. As I made my way to my office building, I then noticed a poster on one of the buildings that spoke of something going on at the Manehatten Theatre. It was a new production called, 'The Trickster and the Thief'. It was supposed to be about somepony who tricks others into stealing priceless artifacts for him only to steal from them. Honestly, despite how terrible of a pony may be, this story did catch my attention. I was quite curious and figured this could actually be fun to watch. Last minute tickets were on sale for anypony who would want to grab a chance to watch the production. And the show would start at 2:40 pm today. I didn't want to miss this chance for what could be a good show so I then rushed over to the Manehatten Theatre to get my ticket. When I got there, a line of ponies was already there to get their tickets before the show starts. And I thought I woke up early.... I waited and waited until I finally got to the booth and I was one of the lucky ponies to have bought my ticket. Was only second to last and I was so relieved to have gotten my ticket. Amazingly, it took roughly six hours to get them before they sold out. There was still time before the show even started, so I decided to head to my office to make sure to let any ponies looking for an appointment that I would be gone for the day. I began dusting my office as usual to make sure it was clean, I made sure my books and papers were still organized, and I got my sign that said, 'Off Duty', to make sure ponies know I was gone for the day. Afterwards, I left my office to spend time at my favorite café, 'Warm Morning'. I entered the café and there Vanilla Cream was to greet me.

"Oh, welcome, Doctor Bitter...! I hope you're having a good morning!" She still as positive as ever. I took my seat to make my order.

"Hello, Vanilla Cream. I would like my usual today if you please." I had a couple of hours to spend before the show starts, so I wanted a pick-me-up before leaving. Vanilla Cream then had my order prepared both quickly and properly like always.

"You're usually at work at this time of the day. What's the occasion...?" I lowered my cup of coffee after taking a few sips to answer her question.

"I'm taking the day off to go and see the new production at the theatre today. It is called, 'The Trickster and the Thief'. It sounds interesting." I had my ticket with me in my pocket for later.

"Oh, I heard about that. I wanted to go, but I'm too busy with work right now." That is unfortunate.... Guess employees have it rough.

"Well, maybe next time. I'm sure they'll do an encore later on." The theatre usually does do an encore after a little while.

"Yeah, maybe next time...!" She then went back to work and I decided to read a few old articles that were present in the café. After a little while, it was already 1:50 pm and the show was about to start. I then got out of my seat, left the payment on the table for my order, and began making my way out of the café.

"Thank you for the coffee, Vanilla Cream. I'll see you next time." I made sure I still had my ticket with me for the show.

"Alright, good bye!" I then left after giving Vanilla Cream my goodbye. I made my way to the theatre and how fortunate for me that I made it 40 minutes before show time. I and many other ponies were excited to get to see this potentially good production. The theatre has been known for it's good productions. But then something strange happened.... The curtains then parted with a familiar face standing at the center of the stage. It was Discord and I was not happy to see him. He was dressed in a magician's outfit, possibly trying to do a magic show. There was confusion amongst myself and the audience until we then see him place with top hat on the ground in front of him, tapped it a few times with his magic wand, and then a frightening creature appeared from underneath hat. It was a very tall creature with the arms and face of a monkey, the horns of a bull, and the lower part was the four legs of a pony. None of us knew what to think of this unknown creature and then I felt like a large part of me was being taken away from me. My body felt like the world was crushing me, I thought I was turning into ice, and my eyesight became misty. Whatever this creature was doing to the audience and myself, I knew it was no good. And then...my world....became dark....

Chapter 9 - Emptiness part 2

It was another day working at the bakery/café and all the customers were enjoying their pastries and sweets like always and I served them like always. But then we heard the sound of an alarm going off throughout the entire city.

"Love, what's going on? What's that sound?" I was confused about what that alarm meant, but the customers all looked scared to death.

"That means trouble...! Everypony, in the break room! Now...!" Tough Love magically opened the door and the customers all rushed inside. Whatever was going on cannot be good....

"Attention! Attention! Citizens of Manehatten! This is the Manehatten Police Force! A monstrous creature has been sighted in Equestria and is stealing the magic of every pony! The creature is being aided by Discord, the Spirit of Chaos! Do not confront this creature and avoid it without failure! The Royal Guard and the Wonderbolts will take care of this creature! Until this creature is dealt with, find a place to hide and remain until this crisis is averted!" It was a voice from a loud speaker. But...that can't be! Discord and I are friends, right?! How can he do this?!

"Alright everypony, don't panic! I'm sure this will end soon! Just remain calm...!" Tough Love tried to calm the customers, but they were all afraid of this evil creature. Honestly, so was I.... Suddenly, my body then felt empty and my sight was becoming fuzzy. I couldn't even feel my legs and I felt like the world was getting dark.

"Diane...? Hey Diane, what's wrong?! Hey...!" I could barely hear Tough Love at all with how fast I was fading. I wasn't sure what was happening, but then I remembered what Princess Luna told me. I then realized...something happened...to Pinkie Pie. My world turned dark. The next thing I that happened was me being lost in darkness. It was so cold. I wasn't sure what was going on, but I could only hope Pinkie Pie was safe. And what about Princess Luna? Is she safe...? Then something strange happened: I began to see images of the past. Pinkie Pie's past.... And then the feelings of sadness, loneliness, and many other negative feelings came crashing down on top of me. The images of those dark days filled my mind and I was losing my mind. I wanted it all to stop. I tried to remember the faces of all the ponies I care about most, but these negative thoughts wouldn't stop....

"No...! I am me...! I am not Pinkie Pie! I have my own life...! She and I are different...! Stop...! Stop...!" I felt like my mind was being torn apart and everything was spinning out of control. I was driven to madness. I collapsed as my mind finally stopped in it's tracks. I thought I was dead until I then saw something make it's way towards me. It was just a small light and it just hovered above my motionless body. My eyes felt so heavy after what happened to me and I wasn't sure what to make of this light.

"Are you alright...?" I heard a voice. It was so familiar to me.... It was coming from the light. I then lifted my head and tried to utter a response.

"Are....you...?" I could barely say anything with my mind in tatters. And my body still felt like it was being crushed by the weight of the world.

"It's alright, I won't hurt you. Really...! Don't be afraid." I knew it; it was Pinkie Pie's voice. But...how was she speaking to me. I died.

"You know, I was actually worried about you. But now that I see you're alright, I'm happy now. But...well...you know, bad things happened." She must be referring to my weakened state.

I gave a weak sigh, "Oh well.... At least I lived a meaningful life." I don't blame Pinkie Pie for what happened to us. That evil creature had to have done that to us.

"Um...actually, I'm not dead. Neither are you." The light started hovering in strange directions. What she said then caught my attention really quick.

"What...? We're...alive...? But we...we were-" I was so confused. I felt like I actually died and I thought this was the end.

"Nope...! In fact, right now, we're more alive than ever before!" Suddenly, the light began shining brighter and brighter and it looked almost exactly like the Sonic Rainboom from before.

"Let's meet soon, ok?! Bye...!" I was then swallowed by light and then I found myself in a bed. I was so lost right now, and then I saw Miss Jubilee's face.

"Diane...! You're awake...! Thank Celestia you're alright!" She then hugged me and then I saw the faces of Day, Charm, Love, and Bitter Sweet.

"Big Sis...!" Day joined in Miss Jubilee's tearful embrace.

"You scared us to death, dude...!" Then Charm joined in.

"Don't ever do that again...!" Love then joined in. I was starting to get smothered.

"I'm so glad you're alright...." Even Bitter Sweet was tearing up. I then looked around and I found myself in what I assume was the room in a hospital. But then I realized I wasn't dead, and that I never left them. Words could not express my relief. I then hugged them all back.

"I'm back...." That was all I could really say to them. Whatever happened, I'm glad it's all over. I felt lighter than air when I left the hospital and we all made our way back home. The best news is that Pinkie Pie and her friends had defeated this evil monster with the help of Discord. Was this a plan of his? I wasn't sure.... What's more, all the ponies who lost their magic had reclaimed it and peace had returned to Equestria. We all celebrated at home and so did all of Manehatten. Afterwards, we were all really tired after all that. Bitter Sweet told me what happened to him and he knew exactly what I felt. I made my way to bed after everypony else went to bed after the party and then I see Bitter Sweet getting ready for bed too.

"Oh, hello Diane. Are you going to bed too?" He looked really happy. I've never seen his face smile this much.

"Yes, I am. Today has been really tiresome for me. I feel like I could sleep for a week." I also began to make my bed.

"That's good to know. I know exactly how you feel." We then finished getting ready for bed and then turned off the lights.

"Good night, Diane." Bitter Sweet sounded so relieved.

"Good night, Bitter Sweet." Even after all that happened, I knew there was another day waiting for us.

Chapter 10 - Confession

After the crisis, all of Equestria went back to what it was like before: Peaceful and Joyful. And Manehatten was no different. I was working at 'Sweet Hearts', Day and Charm are still in school, Miss Jubilee is happily running her cherry business, and Bitter Sweet is still helping me with my...problem. Actually, I have been thinking about my problem after that crisis. If something did happen to Pinkie Pie, that might be what ends us both for sure. And that scares me.... Today I am in Bitter Sweet's office for another appointment, and I feel now is the time to finally tell them my identity.

"Diane, is something wrong...? You seem...upset about something." Bitter Sweet noticed my serious expression and I suddenly got on my four hooves, feeling determined.

"I am going to tell them now...!" I never felt so sure in my life and I was ready to face my fear no matter what could happen.

"What...?! Diane, are you sure?! Shouldn't you stop and think for a minute first?!" Bitter Sweet was surprised to hear my outburst. I then began ran out the door.

"No more stopping and thinking...! It is time!" I ran out of the building feeling like my body was on fire. Nothing was going to stop me.

"Wait...Diane! Slow down and think! You can't just-wait for me!" Bitter Sweet was barely able to keep up with me. Maud Pie was right, he needs to exercise more. Suddenly without looking, I then bumped into a familiar snake-like creature: It was Discord.

"Discord...! What are you doing here?!" I jumped back out of caution. After what he did, I'm surprised the Princesses haven't sent him to prison. Though, I then noticed his sad expression as he looked down at me.

"I'm sorry....Diane." That was all he said, and he sounded so...sincere. I know I should be angry at him, but he seemed to be truly regretful of his mistake. Instead of yelling at him or rejecting him, I just...gave him a hug.

"It's alright...Discord." He then hugged me back. Afterwards, he then disappeared in a flash of light. Whatever happened to him must have been enough to turn him around. All I could do is hope for the best. I then see Bitter Sweet finally catch up to me. He was completely winded.

"I....am...huff...here...huff....!" He really, really needs to exercise more. I decided to not tell him about Discord, because Bitter Sweet might hate him for what happened.

"Are you alright?" Bitter Sweet looked like he was about to collapse.

"I'm fine...huff...! Let's...huff...go!" We then then made our way back home at a much slower pace. Eventually, after stopping to get Bitter Sweet a drink of water, we arrived at home and we both find everypony home. Just what I hoped for. Miss Jubilee was making lunch, Day was playing with her dolls, Charm was reading his comics, and Love was helping Miss Jubilee with making lunch.

"Hey, Diane and Big Bro are back!"

"Yay...! They're back!" Day and Charm stopped what they were doing and jumped to greet us.

"Oh, well this is unusual. Welcome back." Tough Love started setting up the plates.

"That's good~! I hope you two are hungry~!" Miss Jubilee looked like she was almost done.

"Everypony, I need you all to listen...! I have something important to tell you all!" My outburst caught their attention. I have to do this. It's now or never!

"Diane, calm down...! You need to-" I ignored Bitter Sweet's words and took a deep breath.

"I'M NOT A REAL PONY!" I said it...! I actually said it...! I told them my secret...! It was really quiet in the room. Even Bitter Sweet was silenced.

"Wha...what?" Miss Jubilee was probably the one who was most shocked.

"Sure you're a real pony, Diane. You look like one to us." Tough Love, Day, and Charm gave me confused looks.

"No, I'm not...! I was made by magic! I came from within another pony who is real! I'm....I'm just her copy!" I couldn't let this chance slip away. Knowing that anything could happen to Pinkie Pie or myself, I had to tell them.

"Listen to her, everypony. It's the truth. It's what I was helping her with all this time...." Bitter Sweet knew the truth and they all knew he did.

"Um...I don't get it."

"Me neither...." I'm not surprised that Day and Charm couldn't understand. They were still very young. Then Miss Jubilee walked up to me and gave me a serious look. My hooves shook, but I didn't regret my decision. Miss Jubilee then raised her left hoof at me and I closed my eyes out of reflex, but then I noticed she was embracing me.

"I don't care if you're a copy or not, Diane. You're our family and that is what's real. Never forget that." Those words made me feel so light, I thought I was standing on a cloud.

"We'll keep it a secret, Diane. No matter what." Tough Love joined in on the embrace.

"Yeah...!" Day then joined in.

"So will I! Even though I still don't get it...." Charm also joined in. He is such a dork. I am so happy...! I was so scared that they would reject me, but they didn't! I....I love these ponies so much.

Bitter Sweet gave a relieved sigh, "Well done, Diane." With ponies like these, I couldn't ask for anything else....