I Don't Want Too Be Saved

Chapters

Ending The Pain
Shock
The News
Worry
Telling The Others
Hope
Anger
The Letter

Ending The Pain

I opened the door to my house.As I swung the door open, the creaking hinges echoed through the dimly lit hallway. I stepped inside, the familiar scent of aged wood and dust filling my nostrils.

The house was quiet, save for the soft ticking of an old grandfather clock in the living room. I closed the door behind me, the latch clicking firmly into place.

I made my way down the hallway, my footsteps echoing through the room. The air was heavy with the weight of my decision. I walked into the kitchen, grabbing a knife and walked toward the bathroom. I paused outside the door, my hand trembling slightly as I reached for the knob. With a deep breath, I pushed the door open and stepped inside.

I stood in front of the bathroom mirror, the knife clenched tightly in my grasp. I stared at my own reflection, my face pale and drawn, my eyes red-rimmed. The silence around me was almost suffocating, broken only by the steady drip of the leaky faucet and the beating of my heart. I took another deep breath, steeling myself for what I was about to do. I walked up to the bathtub, turned the water on.

I stepped into the bathtub, the cold porcelain biting into my skin. I sat down, the water still running, filling the tub. I looked down at the knife in my hoof, the blade glinting under the harsh fluorescent light. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, a mixture of fear and anticipation coursing through my veins. I took a deep breath, and with a trembling hand, I pressed the blade against my wrist.

I heard a knock at my door, frantic.

"Script, are you home? I need to talk to you."

I jerked my head toward the bathroom door, my heart skipping a beat. I recognized the voice - it was Ellie. I turned back to my hoof, pressing the blade into my skin.

"Script, Lily told me everything. Please, let me in..."

Ellie's muffled voice, thick with tears, carried through the bathroom door. "Please, I don't want you to do this. We can talk about it. I... I can help you." My hoof shook, the knife still pressed against my skin. A thin red line began to form, blood trickling down my hoof. Ellie's continued knocking was like a distant echo, and I could feel her presence on the other side of the door.

I hesitated, the knife poised at my hoof. Ellie's desperate knocking and pleading filtered through the door, a stark contrast to the cold, detached part of me that wanted to end the pain.

"Script, please," Ellie called out, her voice cracking with emotion. "Don't do this. I know you're hurting, but we can get through this together. I... I care about you."

"You are all better off without me here..." I sob as I slide the blade across my hoof as I cried out in pain.

I can hear Ellie's muffled gasp, her desperation turning to panic. "Script, no!" she cries out, her voice shaking. "Please, don't do this. You're not alone, you don't have to do this." The door rattles as she tries to force it open, but I've locked it from the inside.

"I'm sorry I wasn't strong enough, Ellie..." I whimper as I slash my other hoof harder than I did with the other one.

I let out a scream, feeling the blade slice open my skin and muscles. Blood flows freely now, staining the white porcelain of the bathtub crimson. My vision blurs, the pain and blood loss taking their toll. I hear Ellie's voice, now more distant, as I drift away.

"Oh, no! Script, no!" Ellie shouts, her voice frantic and laced with panic. She pounds on the door with increasing urgency, the wood groaning under the force of her claws.

I heard Ellie's desperate pounding and pleading from the other side of the bathroom door, but I felt too weak to respond. My vision blurred, the pain from the deep cuts in my hooves throbbing. I could feel the warm blood flowing freely from the wounds, staining the porcelain of the bathtub a deep, dark red.

"Script, please! Let me in, I'm begging you!" Ellie cried out, her voice cracking with anguish.

I could hear her claws scraping against the wood as she tried to force the door open, but the lock held firm. "I care, Script! You're not alone in this, I'm here for you!" Her words were laced with desperation and a raw, unbridled emotion that I had never heard from her before. I felt my strength ebbing away, the blood loss and trauma taking their toll.

My head slumped forward, eyes closing as unconsciousness crept over me. Through the haze of pain and darkness, I dimly heard the sound of something heavy being moved, followed by a loud crash. The next thing I was aware of was bright lights and a flurry of movement around me.

Author's Note

I do have the whole story already written out, just need to edit and post.

Shock

The bathroom door splinters as Ellie rams it with her shoulder, breaking it open. She rushes inside, her wings unfurling in alarm. She sees the blood on the floor and on Script's hooves, and she lets out a choked sob.

"Oh no, no, no..." Ellie whispers, her eyes wide with horror. She rushes to the bathtub, kneeling beside her friend. "Script, can you hear me?"

Script laid in the tub, motionless and unresponsive.

Ellie's wings flutter anxiously as she assesses the situation. She quickly grabs a towel from the nearby rack and presses it firmly against the worst of the cuts on Script's hooves, trying to stem the bleeding.

"Stay with me, Script. I'm here now. You're going to be okay." Ellie's voice trembles as she speaks, her usual confidence replaced by raw emotion.

She heard the front door open. It must be Lily and the others.

"Script! Ellie!" Lily calls out, her voice filled with worry. "Where are you?"

Ellie looks up from where she's pressed the towel to Script's hoof, her eyes filled with tears.

"In here, Lily!" she calls out, her voice shaking. "I found her. She... she tried to hurt herself."

Lily rushed into the bathroom, her heart pounding in her chest. The sight that greeted her was one she will never forget.

Script lay motionless in the bathtub, her hooves badly cut and bleeding profusely. Ellie knelt beside her, desperately trying to stem the flow of blood with a towel.

"Oh, no!" Lily gasped, her hoof flying to my mouth. Tears sprang to her eyes as she took in the scene before her. "Script, no!"

"What happened??" Lotus Moon walked in panting, Flame Flare behind her. "What's going on, Lily just told me to get here asap."

Ellie quickly explained the situation to Lotus Moon and Flare, their eyes widened in shock as they took in the scene, hoof and claw flying to their mouth.

"Oh, sweet Celestia..." she gasped, her voice trembling. "Is she... is she gone?" Ellie shook her head, her eyes brimming with tears.

The four girls stare at Script, tears streaming down their faces. "No, she's not gone yet," Ellie says, her voice choked with emotion. "But we need to get her to a hospital. Now."

Lily nods, her dark blue mane swaying. "EMS is already on the way, they should be here soon," she says.

"EMS? You mean, the emergency service?" Lotus Moon asks, her face showing worry and confusion.

"Yes," Lily confirms, her attention focused on Script's pale form. "I sent Rosie a message. She's sending them immediately."

Lotus Moon's ears droop slightly, and she steps closer to Ellie. "Oh, I see... I hope she'll be okay." Lotus Moon says softly. "Is there anything we can do in the meantime?"

Ellie shakes her head, her wings drooping. "Not really. Just... just stay with her until help arrives. Let her know we're here, that she's not alone." Lily nods, moving to kneel on Script's other side. She gently takes her friend's hoof, holding it carefully.

As Lily walks up to Script, Flare can’t help but take the blame. Script had said she wanted to die before, but she didn’t take it very seriously, thinking she was only angry in the heat of the moment. She turned around and silently sobbed into her claws, unable to stare at the scene any longer.

The sound of hoofsteps and chatter echoes from the hall, growing louder and more frantic. EMS workers burst into the bathroom, pushing past them with a gurney.

"Move aside, please," a blue unicorn in a white coat instructs firmly as he examines Script. They all step back reluctantly, watching as the EMS team swiftly but carefully lift Script onto the gurney and secure her with blankets. Her body is so pale and still, it's terrifying.

The blue unicorn nods to his teammates. "Let's go. We need to get her to the hospital immediately." He turns to Script’s friends. "We'll do everything we can for her, but I need you all to stay here and wait for the police. They'll want to speak with you about what happened."

Ellie, Lily, Flare, and Lotus Moon exchange worried glances as the EMS team wheels Script out of the bathroom and down the hallway. They follow behind, still giving them some distance, watching as they rushed Script out of the house.

As the ambulance doors slam shut, the sound reverberates through the house, leaving the friends in stunned silence. Ellie's wings droop and she slumps against the wall, her face etched with sorrow.

"I... I can't believe this happened," she whispers, her voice breaking. "How did we not see this coming?" Lily's mane sways as she shakes her head, her dark blue and magenta strands clashing with her emotions.Flare just stared at the ground, clinging onto herself for comfort.

All the friends stand there, processing the events, the reality of what just happened finally hitting them. They all walk back into the bathroom, which is a mess of towels and blood, and the scent of iron fills the air.

The silence is deafening as the sound of the ambulance fades away, leaving them alone in the stark, bloodstained bathroom. The scent of iron and fear hangs heavy in the air, clinging to their manes and coats. Ellie turns to Lily and Lotus, their eyes wide with shock and tears streaming down their faces. They're all thinking the same thing, the unspoken fear that Script might not make it.

Flare couldn’t hold it in any longer. She started wailing as she wiped the tears from her eyes. “It’s all my fault…” she whimpered repeatedly. Lily pulled her in close to comfort her.

“It’s not, we all did our best.” she said. “We’ve done all we could have.”

Ellie looked at the two girl's, a look in her eyes. “Did you two know about this?” she asked.

The two friends looked at each other, debating if they should tell her the truth or not. “I’ll say it.” Lily said. She turned to Ellie and Lotus Moon, ready to tell them the news of Script’s sexual assault.

Suddenly, the doorbell rings, startling them sligtly. They look at each other, none of them wanting to answer it, but knowing they must. Ellie steps forward, her claws shaking slightly as she makes her way to the door. She takes a deep shaky breath before opening it, revealing a pair of uniformed ponies standing outside.

"Are you the ones who called about the attempted suicide?" one of them asks, their expression serious.

Lily walks out from behind Ellie nodding, her face pale and drawn. "Yes, that's right. It's... it's my friend. She tried to kill herself."

The police officers exchange a quick glance before the first one speaks again. "We need to ask you some questions about the incident. May we come inside?" Ellie and Lily step back, allowing them entry. The officers enter, walking into the bathroom their eyes scanning the blood-stained bathroom as they pass. "Can you tell us what happened?"

The first officer asks, his hoof jotting something down in his notepad. Ellie steps forward, her wings drooping. "She... she tried to slit her hooves and wrists." Her voice trembles as she continues. "I heard her through the door. I was pleading with her to stop, but she didn't listen." Tears stream down her face as she recalls the moment.

Lily moves closer to Ellie for comfort, her mane a tangle of dark blue and magenta strands, a stark contrast to the seriousness of the moment. Lotus Moon and Flame Flare standing quietly behind them, their presence a gentle support but unable to find words. The lead officer looks back and forth between the friends.

"Do you know what could have prompted such a drastic action?" he asks, his eyes narrowing slightly.

Ellie stared at the ground. "I... I don't know for sure," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. Then, Lily walked forward.

She knew Script wouldn't want anypony to know about her abuse, but she had no choice here. "I think it has to do with her being sexually assaulted," she said.

The room falls silent for a moment, the gravity of Lily's words hanging heavy in the air. The officers exchange a look, their expressions turning from professional to concerned.

The lead officer clears his throat, his voice softening slightly. "I'm sorry to hear that. That's a very serious matter. Do you know who did this to her?"

Lily shakes her head, her mane swaying. "No, we don't."

She glances at Flame Flare, who looks away, unable to meet her gaze. "We... we never asked. We should have."

The lead officer nods, scribbling in his notepad. "We'll need to investigate this further. Do you know where we can find any evidence of the abuse? Any physical or digital records, perhaps?"

Flare shakes her head, her wings drooping even further. "I... I don't think so. She never talked about it much." "She didn't really want anypony to know about it, fear of being judged."

The lead officer sighs, his hoof pausing in its notes. "I understand. It's a difficult situation. But it's important we get to the bottom of this, for her sake and the sake of preventing future incidents." He glances around the room, his eyes lingering on the blood-stained towels and the lingering scent of iron. "In the meantime, I suggest you all get some rest. We'll be in touch with more information as soon as we have it."

They all watch as the police officers leave, their hoofsteps echoing through the house. The door closes with a soft click, leaving the friends in an eerie silence. Ellie and Lily remain frozen, their eyes fixed on the bathroom door, as if expecting Script to emerge at any moment. Lotus Moon finally breaks the silence, her voice barely audible.

"What do we do now?" she asks, her eyes darting between the friends. Ellie shakes her head, her wings drooping even further. She looks at Lily and Flame Flare, their eyes filled with a mix of sorrow, regret, and fear for what the future holds.

"I can't believe this happened," she says, her voice trembling. "I... I feel like we should have seen the signs, done something to prevent this."

Lily steps forward, her hoof reaching out to touch Ellie's wing in a gesture of comfort. "We can't blame ourselves," she says softly. "Script was in a dark place, and it's not our fault she chose this path."

Ellie nods, but the weight of guilt is still heavy in her eyes. Lotus Moon moves closer, her hoof resting gently on Ellie's shoulder. "We can't change what happened," she says, her voice gentle but firm.

"But we can make sure she gets the help she needs," Lotus Moon continues, her eyes determined. "First things first, we need to follow up with the hospital. We need to know how she's doing, what her prognosis is." Ellie nods, her wings fluttering slightly. "We should head on over now," she said.

The News

Author's Note

Might come back and polish this up later on, was just excited to post.

The News

The friends make their way to the hospital, their hooves and claws echoing in the quiet hallway. As they approach the reception desk, a pegasus nurse greets them with a professional smile.

"Can I help you?" she asks, her wings fluttering slightly as she types something into her typewriter.

Ellie steps forward, her voice wavering. "Yes, we're here to check on our friend, Script Singer. She was brought in earlier today after... after an incident at home."

The nurse's smile falters for a moment, replaced by a look of understanding. She nods and turns to her notes. "Oh, yes. I see. She's been admitted to our intensive care unit." She glances up at them, her eyes softening with compassion. "I'm afraid only immediate family can visit at this time. Is there anyone here who could be considered next of kin?"

The three friends shook their heads. "She lost her parents when she was young and her other family members live out of town."

The nurse's expression grows more sympathetic as she listens. "I understand. In that case, we'll need to contact her family as soon as possible." She pauses, glancing at a clipboard. "I can tell you that she's in stable condition right now, but she's lost a lot of blood. We're monitoring her closely." Her wings twitch anxiously as she continues.

"We really need to talk to her doctor. Is there any way you could make an exception, given the circumstances? We're all she has."

The nurse hesitates for a moment before nodding slowly. "I'll see what I can do," she says softly. "Just give me a moment." She turns and trots down the hallway, leaving the friends alone in the lobby. Ellie sighs, her wings drooping even further as she leans against the wall.

The nurse returns a few minutes later, accompanied by a tall, grey-coated unicorn in a white lab coat. He approaches the friends, his expression serious but not unkind.

"Hello," he says, his voice deep and soothing. "I'm Dr. Hoofington, the attending physician for Script Singer. I understand you're her closest friends and are concerned about her condition." He pauses, glancing at the nurse before continuing.

"I can assure you that she's receiving the best possible care," Dr. Hoofington continues, his eyes softening with empathy. "She's in stable condition, but as you know, she's lost a significant amount of blood. We're monitoring her vitals closely and have started her on a course of antibiotics to prevent infection."

Ellie nods, her claw clenching anxiously. "Can we see her?" she asks, her voice barely above a whisper.

Dr. Hoofington glances at the nurse before turning back to the group. "Under normal circumstances, I'd say no. But given the... nature of her admission and the fact that she doesn't have immediate family here, I'll make an exception." He pauses, his face growing serious. "However, I must insist on a few conditions. First, only one of you can enter the room at a time. Second, you must be very gentle and respectful of her space."

Ellie steps forward, her wings fluttering slightly. "I'll go first," she says, her voice filled with determination. The others nod in agreement, and Ellie follows Dr. Hoofington down the hallway and into the ICU. The room is brightly lit, filled with the soft beeps and hums of medical equipment.

As Ellie steps into the room, her heart clenches at the sight of Script lying so still in the hospital bed, her coat pale and lifeless. An oxygen mask covers her face, and bandages wrap around her hooves and chest. Ellie moves closer, her hoof reaching out to gently brush against Script's cheek, now cool and unresponsive.

"I'm here, Script," she whispers, her voice thick with emotion. "We all are. Lily, Flame Flare, Lotus, and me."

As Ellie continues her vigil over her unconscious friend, Lily, Flame Flare, and Lotus Moon hover anxiously just outside the glass partition, peeking in now and then at Ellie's and Script's interaction with the attending nurse. Their conversation with Dr. Hoofington still weighing on their hearts and minds as the weight of responsibility and sorrow pressed down heavily. Lily sighs and fiddles nervously with the magenta braid tips of her blue mane as the others await.

The silence is thick and heavy, filled with the low hum of machinery and the distant murmurs of hospital staff. Lily's eyes are fixed on the glass window, watching as Ellie speaks softly to Script, her wings drooping with worry. Lotus Moon stands beside her, her expression grave.

"She looks so fragile." Lily's voice is barely above a whisper.

Lotus Moon nods solemnly. "I can't believe this happened." She pauses, then adds, "We should have seen the signs. We should have done something."

Lily's eyes well up with tears as she turns to face Lotus Moon. "We couldn't have known, Lotus. She never told us about... about what happened to her." Lotus Moon's eyes narrow, her jaw clenching.

"Maybe we should have pushed her harder. Made her open up." Lotus Moon's words hang heavy in the air as they both remain focused on Ellie and Script in the room beyond. The seconds stretch into minutes, and the waiting becomes almost unbearable. Lily's ears twitch as she notices a small commotion near the nurses' station. Several white-coated ponies are gathered, speaking in hushed, urgent tones.

Suddenly, the group of ponies breaks apart and one of them trots swiftly towards the ICU. It's Twilight Sparkle, her eyes wide with concern. She must have been vollenteering for the day. She spots the friends immediately and quickens her pace. "Girls," she says, her voice laced with urgency as she approaches them. "I just received a message from one of the nurses. There's been a complication with Script's condition."

As Twilight’s words sink in, Lily's heart hammers in her chest, and her eyes widen with fear. "What kind of complication?" she asks, her voice trembling.

Twilight's expression is grave. "Her blood pressure is dropping, and her heart rate is erratic. They're prepping for surgery to stop the internal bleeding."

Lotus Moon gasps, her hooves covering her mouth.

"Oh no, no, no," Lily stammers, her wings fluttering anxiously. "Can't we do something? Can't you help?"

Twilight shakes her head, her horn glowing with magical energy. "I'm already doing what I can, Lily. My magic can't fix this. They need to operate immediately."

Just then, the door to the ICU slides open, and Dr. Hoofington emerges, his coat now stained with blood.

Dr. Hoofington's expression is grim as he addresses the group, his voice tight with concern. "We've managed to stabilize Script for now, but she's lost a tremendous amount of blood. The surgery went well, but we need to keep a close eye on her recovery. We will continue to monitor her vital signs and adjust her medication as needed."

Ellie stands in the corner of the ICU room, watching as the doctors and nurses bustle around Script's bedside, their hooves clopping and their voices murmuring in the background. Her eyes are fixed on her friend, who lies so still, her chest rising and falling with each shallow breath. The oxygen mask obscures her face, and the wires and tubes snaking out from under the sheets and bandages make Ellie's heart clench with dread.

As the medical team finishes their work and steps back, Dr. Hoofington turns to Ellie, his expression softening slightly.

"She's in critical condition, Ellie. The next few hours will be crucial. We're doing everything we can, but she needs all the support she can get."

Ellie nods, her wings folding tightly against her back. "I won't leave her side."

Dr. Hoofington places a hoof on Ellie's shoulder. "That's good to hear. Your presence here is important, but remember to take care of yourself too. You can't help her if you collapse from exhaustion."

As he speaks, a nurse approaches with a tray of supplies. "We need to change her bandages and check her vitals again. Would you like to step out for a moment?" Ellie hesitates, her eyes flickering between the nurse and Script.

Ellie shakes her head, her wings shifting restlessly. "I'd rather stay if that's okay. I... I don't want her to wake up alone."

Dr. Hoofington nods in understanding. "Very well, but please step back and give the nurse some space to work."

Ellie obeys, moving to the corner of the room and watching with wide, frightened eyes as the nurse carefully changes Script's dressings, applying fresh bandages with gentle motions.

The nurse finishes and steps back, speaking softly. "Her wounds are healing as expected, but she's still very weak." Dr. Hoofington nods and approaches the bedside, checking the various monitors and displays. "Vitals are stable for now. That's encouraging." He turns to Ellie. "You're welcome to come closer again if you'd like. Just remember to be as quiet as possible."

Ellie approaches Script's bedside, her claws moving soundlessly across the tiled floor. She stands close to her friend, her wings fluttering softly as she takes in the sight of Script's still form. Dr. Hoofington and the nurse step back, giving Ellie some privacy as she leans down, her beak brushing against Script's forehead. "I'm here, Script," she whispers, her voice barely audible. "I'm not going anywhere."

Worry

Dr. Hoofington steps out of the room, walking up to the three friends. Lily, Flare, and Lotus exchange worried glances as Dr. Hoofington approaches them in the hallway outside the ICU. His expression is grim as he addresses them, his words measured and serious.

"We need to discuss Script's condition. Her recovery is... uncertain at this point."

Flare’s claws move around anxiously as she leans forward, her voice quivering. "What do you mean, uncertain? She's going to be okay, isn't she?"

Dr. Hoofington's face relaxes slightly, and he places a comforting hoof on Flare’s shoulder. "We've done everything we can, but the next 48 hours are crucial. Her body has been through a tremendous ordeal, and we need to give it time to heal and recover." He turns to Lily, his words becoming more measured. "Lily, I'm afraid I need to ask you to be the one to tell her family if she doesn't improve."

Lily's eyes widen in shock, her hooves trembling slightly. "Her family? You mean, they don't know yet?"

Dr. Hoofington shakes his head. "Unfortunately, no. We've been trying to reach them, but we haven't had any luck so far. We need to prepare for the worst, just in case."

Lotus’ voice is barely a whisper, "But..." She swallows hard, her words cracking as she speaks. "She's so young. She can't... she can't die like this, can she?"

Dr. Hoofington's expression softens, and he speaks gently. "We're doing everything we can to prevent that from happening, Lotus. But you need to be prepared for all possibilities." He turns to Lily, his face grave. "Lily, I need you to be strong. If the worst happens, we need to make sure her family is informed immediately. It's a difficult task, but it's crucial."

Lily nods, her jaw set. "I understand. I'll do whatever it takes."

Lotus looks at her, tears in her eyes. "We can't let that happen. We have to keep fighting for her."

Dr. Hoofington nods, his voice firm but tinged with compassion. "That's the right attitude to have. Your support is invaluable right now. Remember, every little thing you do can make a difference." He places a hoof on each of their shoulders, squeezing gently. "Now, I need you both to get some rest. You won't be able to help Script if you're exhausted yourselves. We'll keep you updated on any changes in her condition."

Lily, Flare, and Lotus nod solemnly, their hearts heavy with the weight of Dr. Hoofington's words. "We'll rest," Lily says, her voice barely above a whisper.

Lotus Moon adds, "But we'll be back as soon as we can. We're not leaving her alone."

Dr. Hoofington smiles softly, "That's all I ask. Now, why don't you two go get some food and rest." As the doctor departs, Lily, Flare, and Lotus huddle together, their faces etched with worry and grief.

"I can't believe this is happening," Lily whispers, her voice trembling. "Just yesterday, we were all laughing and joking together, and now..." She trails off, unable to finish the thought.

Lotus Moon wraps a hoof around Lily's shoulders, pulling her close. "I know. It feels like a nightmare we can't wake up from."

As they pull away from each other, a soft voice calls out from down the hallway.

"Girls?" They turn to see Rose Melody trotting towards them, her eyes filled with concern. "I received Lily’s letter. Is everything okay?"

Lily shakes her head, her voice barely audible. "No, Rosie. Script... she might not make it."

Rosie’s face falls, and she quickly trots to them. "Oh my, I... I'm so sorry to hear that." She hesitates for a moment before asking, "Is there anything I can do to help? Any spell or magic I could use to support her recovery?"

Lotus Moon's face becomes pained, and she shakes her head. "We've already asked. Dr. Hoofington said even magic can't fix this. Her body needs to heal on its own."

Rosie’s face darkens with emotion. "But there must be something I can do! I can't just stand here while my friend... while Script..." Her words crack, and she has to stop for a moment to collect herself. "We need to do something, anything."

Flare places a comforting claw on Rosie’s back. "Rosie, you're already doing so much just by being here for us." She turns to Lotus. "Maybe... maybe we should tell the others?"

Lotus Moon nods in agreement, her eyes filled with resolve. "Yes, we should. They need to know. They deserve to know."

Rosie nods, her voice determined. "I'll spread the word. We'll gather everyone at Sugarcube Corner. It's neutral ground, and it's close to the hospital."

Lily looks at her, gratitude in her eyes. "Thank you, Rosie."

Rosie nods, her face set in a firm line. "Of course. I'll take care of it right away." She turns to leave, then pauses, looking back at them. "Remember, girls - we're all in this together. We'll get through this, no matter what happens."

The three friends watch as Rosie trots down the hallway. As they stand there, the reality of the situation hits them fully.

Lily and Lotus Moon stand in the hallway, the weight of Rosie’s words hanging heavy in the air. The fluorescent lights flicker overhead, casting an eerie glow on their faces. Lily's mane sways slightly as she takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself.

"We should go tell Ellie," she says softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Lotus Moon nods, her eyes filled with a mix of determination and sorrow. "Yes, she needs to know."

They walk down the hallway, their hooves echoing softly on the polished floor. As they approach the ICU, they see Ellie standing outside the door, her face a picture of anguish and exhaustion. Her usually bright feathers are now dull and disheveled, and her wings droop slightly at her sides.

She turns to face them as they approach, her eyes red-rimmed from crying. "Girls," she says, her voice hoarse. "Any news?"

Lily shakes her head sadly, her voice barely audible. "No, Ellie. No change yet. Dr. Hoofington said we need to prepare ourselves for... for the worst."

Ellie's face crumples, and she leans against the wall for support. Lotus Moon steps forward, placing a comforting hoof on Ellie's shoulder.

"We're here for you, Ellie. We're all in this together."

Ellie nods, wiping away a stray tear. "I know. I just..." She trails off, unable to find the words. Lily steps forward, wrapping her hooves around Ellie in a gentle embrace.

"We know, Ellie. We're all hurting right now. But we need to stay strong, for Script's sake."

Ellie leans into the hug, her body shaking with silent sobs. Lotus Moon watches them, her own eyes glistening with unshed tears. After a moment, Ellie pulls back, wiping her eyes with the back of her claw.

“I want to be here when Script wakes up, so I’ll be spending the next few nights or so here.” she says.

The friends nod their heads in understanding. “She deserves to have someone with her, she doesn’t deserve to be alone in this.” Lily replies.

“We should get going,” Flare added. “It’s getting late, and Dr. Hoffington said we should rest.”

They said their goodbyes reluctantly, as Ellie turned around to sit in a nearby chair next to Script.

Telling The Others

Lily walked through town, her saddleback on her back. Today was the day they were going to tell the others of Script's sexual assault and her suicide attempt. Unfortunately, Flare and Lotus Moon were unable to join them due to daily responsibilities for the day.

Lily entered the bustling Sugar Cube Corner, the sweet aroma of pastries filling the air. The usual chatter quieted as the patrons noticed her entrance, their eyes flicking to the saddlebag on her back. She approached the group of Script's friends, who were huddled together in a corner booth, their expressions a mix of worry and confusion.

Lily slid into the booth, setting the saddlebag down with a soft thud. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the difficult conversation ahead.

"Hey everyone," she began, her voice barely above a whisper. "I have something important to tell you all."

The others leaned in, their eyes wide with anticipation. "What is it, Lily?" asked Radioflash, his voice tinged with concern. "Is everything okay?"

Lily's eyes flicked to each of her friends, her voice steady despite the heaviness of her words.

"No, it's not okay. Something terrible happened to Script." She paused, looking down at the saddlebag as if it held the answer to her next words. "She was... she was sexually abused."

A collective gasp filled the air. The patrons nearby fell silent, their eyes darting to the group with concern. The friends stared at Lily in shock, their faces pale and eyes wide with disbelief. Bookie was the first to break the silence, her voice trembling with emotion.

"W-what? That can't be right! Who would do such a thing to poor little Script?"

Lily's expression darkened, a flicker of anger passing over her features. "I don't know, Bookie. But I do know that it's left Script in a very dark place. She..." Lily's voice faltered, and she had to take a moment to compose herself before continuing. "She tried to kill herself last night. Ellie found her in her bathroom, in the tub with blood. If she hadn't gotten there when she did, Script would be... she would be gone."

The group's shock was palpable, their faces a picture of horror and disbelief. Radio's face contorted in anger and pain, his hooves clenching at his sides.

The news hit the group like a physical blow. Radioflash slammed his hoof down on the table, his eyes flashing with barely contained rage. "Who did this to her?" he demanded, his voice shaking with emotion. "I'll burn them to a crisp!"

Lily shook her head, her eyes downcast. "I don't know, Radio. She never mentioned who, but that's not the worst of it."

She pulled a letter from her saddlebag, her hooves unsteady as she handed it to Radio. "This is the note she left. She's... she's not doing well. The abuse has... it's done something to her mind. She's barely functioning right now."

Radio took the letter, his face a picture of anguish as he read its contents. The other ponies looked on in horror, their eyes filling with unshed tears. The patrons in Sugar Cube Corner watched in shocked silence, many of them turning away from the disturbing news unfolding before them.

Radio finished reading the note, his face ashen, his hooves quivering as he passed it to Bookie, who quickly wiped away tears from her eyes and sniffled softly before taking the letter. The news about Script had sent waves of panic throughout the town.

In the wake of Lily's revelation, the group sat in stunned silence, the letter passing from pony to pony, each one reading the heart-wrenching words with growing dread. Bookie, her eyes red and puffy from tears, looked up from the letter, her voice barely above a whisper.

"We have to do something. We can't just leave her like this."

The group nodded in solemn agreement, their faces set with determination. Radioflash stood abruptly, his chair scraping loudly against the floor. "I'm going to the hospital. I need to see her, to make sure she's okay." The others quickly followed suit, filing out of the booth and trailing after Radioflash as he strode purposefully towards the door. The patrons of the Sugar Cube Corner watched them go, a mix of shock and sympathy on their faces.

The group hurried to the hospital, their hooves clattering on the cobblestone streets as they made their way through the bustling town. The tension was thick between them, the news of Script's suicide attempt and the abuse she had suffered hanging heavy over their heads. Radioflash led the way, his face set in a grim expression. As they arrived at the hospital entrance, they were immediately greeted by a concerned nurse at the reception desk.

"Hello, what seems to be the matter? Can I help you?" The nurse's professional demeanor was tinged with worry as she took in the group's agitated state. Radioflash stepped forward, his words urgent and strained.

"We're here to see our friend, Script Singer. We... we just found out about what happened. Is she okay? Can we see her?"

The nurse's face fell, and she nodded slowly, her expression grim. "Yes, of course."

The nurse led them to Script's room, the group following her in somber silence. As they approached the door, the sound of quiet sobbing could be heard from within. Radioflash pushed the door open gently, revealing Script lying in bed, motionless. Ellie was sitting next to her, she looked up as the group entered, her eyes red and puffy from crying.

"She still shows no sign of improvement..." she whimpers.

Radioflash walks forward, his hooves shaking as he moves to sit beside the bed. He gently places a hoof on Script's shoulder.

"Script... it's us. We're here for you." Script just lays unresponsive on the bed, her chest slowly rising and falling.

The group gathered around Script's bed, their faces etched with concern and sorrow. Radioflash's voice was laced with emotion as he spoke. "We're all here for you, Script. We love you, and we're not going to let you go through this alone."

Bookie sniffled softly, her eyes brimming with tears as she gently stroked Script's mane. "You're so strong, Script. We know you can get through this."

The group continued to offer words of comfort and support, their voices blending together in a chorus of love and encouragement. Despite their efforts, Script remained unresponsive, her body still and her breathing shallow. The atmosphere in the room was heavy with tension and worry.

After a long moment of silence, Radioflash spoke again, his words laced with a quiet intensity. "We're not going to let you suffer like this, Script. We're going to help you, no matter what it takes."

The group stayed with Script for hours, taking turns sitting by her bed and offering words of comfort and support. As the sun began to set, Radioflash's stomach growled audibly, breaking the somber silence that had settled over the room.

Ellie looked at him with a tired smile. "You should eat something, Radio. You need to keep your strength up if you're going to be here for her." Radioflash sighed, running a hoof through his mane.

"I know, but I don't want to leave her side. What if she wakes up while I'm gone?" He glanced at the clock on the wall, which showed it was nearing dinner time. The others in the group looked at each other, silently debating whether to insist or let Radio stay.

After a moment, Bookie spoke up. "Why don't we take shifts? We can have someone here at all times while the others get some food and rest."

Radioflash considered the suggestion, his brow furrowed in thought. After a moment, he nodded slowly. "Okay, that could work. I'll stay here with her for now, and you guys can go get some food. I'm not really hungry anyway."

The others exchanged glances, a mix of concern and understanding on their faces. Ellie stepped forward, placing a hoof on Radioflash's shoulder.

"Alright, but you have to promise to eat something when we get back."

Radioflash nodded, his eyes never leaving Script's still form. "I promise."

As the others began to file out of the room, Bookie turned back to look at Radioflash. "We'll be back soon, Radio. Just hang in there."

Radioflash offered a weak smile, his voice barely above a whisper. "I will. Thanks, Bookie." As the door closed behind the departing group, Radioflash turned his attention back to Script.

He gently stroked her mane, his voice soft and soothing. "I'm here, Script. I'm not going anywhere." Hours passed in silence, the only sound the soft beeping of the monitors and the occasional rustle of Radioflash shifting in his seat. As the night wore on, Radioflash's eyelids grew heavy with exhaustion. Despite his best efforts to stay awake, he eventually drifted off to sleep, his head resting against the edge of Script's bed.

Radioflash's sleep was fitful and restless, his dreams haunted by visions of Script's pain and suffering. He tossed and turned in his seat, his hooves clenching and unclenching as he fought to stay asleep.

As the first light of dawn began to filter through the hospital window, Radioflash's eyes fluttered open. He blinked a few times, his vision blurry and unfocused as he tried to shake off the lingering effects of his troubled sleep. Ellie stood beside him, her face etched with concern.

"You should go home and get something to eat, Radio. You've been here all night."

Radioflash's gaze shifted to Script, who still lay motionless on the bed. He sighed, running a hoof through his mane. "I know, but I don't want to leave her side."

Ellie placed a claw on Radioflash's shoulder, her voice gentle but firm. "Radio, you need to take care of yourself too. You can't help Script if you're exhausted and malnourished."

Radioflash hesitated, his eyes still fixed on Script's still form. After a moment, he nodded slowly. "Okay, I guess you're right. I just... I don't want to miss anything if she wakes up." Ellie squeezed his shoulder reassuringly.

"I'll send somepony over to you if anything changes, alright?"

Radioflash stood up, stretching his limbs and trying to shake off the fatigue that had settled into his bones. He nodded at Ellie, gratitude in his eyes. "Thanks, Ellie. I appreciate it." He turned to Script one last time, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'll be back soon, Script. Hang in there." With a heavy heart, he left the room, slowly walking down the hallway.

Rosie and Bookie walked down the hallway, a card and flowers in their grasp.

"I hope she's awake. I've been so worried about her." Bookie whispered.

Rosie squeezed Bookie's shoulder gently. "She'll be okay, Bookie. We're all here for her."

As Rosie and Bookie approached Script's room, they could see Ellie through the window, still sitting by Script's bedside. They entered the room quietly, not wanting to disturb her.

Ellie looked up as they entered, her eyes bloodshot and weary. "Hey guys," she said, his voice hoarse from lack of sleep.

"Any change?" Rosie asked.

Ellie shook her head, her expression somber. "No, not yet."

"Maybe we should give her some space," Bookie suggested gently. "Let her rest without the constant visitors."

Ellie sighed, running a hoof through her mane. "I know, but I can't bear the thought of leaving her alone. What if she wakes up and I'm not here?"

Rosie set the card and flowers on the nearby table, then turned back to Ellie. "We can take shifts, like we did with Radio."

Ellie considered this for a moment, then slowly nodded. "Alright, that might work." She stood up, stretching her wings and back. "I think I could use a break anyway. I feel like I've been sitting in this chair for days."

Rosie and Bookie exchanged a look, then approached Ellie. "Why don't you come with us to the cafeteria?" Bookie suggested. "We can grab some food and come back in a little while."

Ellie's stomach growled, a reminder of the long hours without food. "I suppose that wouldn't be the worst idea." She gently patted Script's hoof. "We won't be far, Script. Just trying to get something to eat and maybe stretch our legs a bit."

With a final glance at Script's motionless form, Ellie followed Rosie and Bookie out of the room. As they walked down the hallway, Ellie's thoughts turned to the events that had led to this moment. The abuse, the trauma, the suicide attempt - it was all too much to process.

She found herself stumbling slightly, her wings drooping. Bookie immediately noticed and steadied her.

"Easy there, Ellie. You're not in any condition to be walking around like this."

Ellie managed a weak smile. "I know, I just... I can't believe this is happening."

Rosie and Bookie exchanged a concerned look as Ellie stumbled. Rosie moved to her other side, offering additional support. "Lean on us, Ellie. We've got you," Rosie said gently.

The trio made their way to the cafeteria, moving slowly to accommodate Ellie's exhausted state. Once there, they found a quiet corner and settled in. Bookie fetched some food and drinks for everyone, while Rosie kept a watchful eye on Ellie.

Ellie's face was pale, and her wings drooped as she sank into the chair, her usual energetic demeanor completely gone. "I just... I can't believe this is happening," she repeated, her words cracking with emotion. "I can't believe she felt so alone, so desperate, that she thought this was her only option."

Rosie reached across the table, placing a hoof on Ellie's. "We all felt that way at some point, Ellie."

"She didn't even tell us about any of it..." Ellie's voice trailed off, her gaze dropping to the table. "I should have noticed something was wrong. I should have been there for her."

Bookie set the tray of food on the table, then sat down beside the griffon. "Ellie, you can't blame yourself for this. You were there when it mattered most - you saved her life."

Ellie's eyes welled up with tears, her lower lip quivering. "But what if I hadn't been there?" She drew a shuddering breath, trying to steady herself. "What if I was just a few minutes later?" Rosie and Bookie looked at each other, their expressions mirroring their shared worry and sadness.

Bookie leaned closer, speaking in a gentle but firm manner. "Ellie, you can't change what happened. What you can do is be here now, for both yourself and for Script."

Ellie's gaze lifted, meeting Bookie's, and she took a shaky breath. "You're right. I just... I don't know if I can handle this." Her words were laced with a quiet, desperate edge. "What if she doesn't wake up? What if she's... what if she's gone forever?"

Rosie squeezed Ellie's hoof gently. "We have to stay positive, Ellie. We can't give up hope."

Rosie's hoof tightened around Ellie's as the griffon's eyes welled up with tears once more. "I'm trying, Rosie. I really am. But it's so hard to stay positive when she's just lying there, so still and... and lifeless." Ellie's voice broke on the last word, and she ducked her head, her wings curling protectively around her as a sob threatened to escape.

Bookie moved closer to Ellie, her expression soft and understanding. "I know it's hard, Ellie. We're all hurting right now. But we can't let fear and despair overwhelm us."

She glanced at Rosie, a silent acknowledgment of their shared worry, before turning her full attention back to Ellie. "You need to take care of yourself, too. You can't keep going on like this without rest."

Ellie lifted her head, looking between Rosie and Bookie, her face lined with exhaustion. "I just... I need to be with her. Any second she might wake up or..." She stopped, unable to finish the sentence, her anxiety too overwhelming.

Rosie's brow furrowed. "Ellie, we understand that you want to be there. But you won't be much use to anyone, least of all Script, if you fall apart."

Ellie's breath caught in her throat, her body tensing with the effort it took to maintain her composure. "But what if something happens while we're gone?"

Bookie squeezed Ellie's arm gently. "We'll only be gone for a short time, Ellie. And we'll be checking in regularly. If anything does happen, we'll know immediately and be right there."

Ellie took a shaky breath, then slowly nodded, her wings lifting slightly. "You're right." She looked at the food in front of her, then back at Rosie and Bookie. "I suppose I should at least try to eat something."

Rosie smiled encouragingly. "That's a good idea. You need to keep up your strength, especially for when Script wakes up."

Ellie took a small bite of the sandwich on her plate, chewing slowly. "I just... I keep thinking about everything she's been through. The abuse, the trauma..."

As Ellie took another bite, Rosie and Bookie kept a watchful eye on her. Bookie took a sip of his drink, then spoke, "You know, we can't let what happened to Script happen to any other ponies. We need to find out who did this and make sure they're brought to justice."

Ellie's ears perked up at the mention of justice. "I want to help, but..."

Rosie and Bookie shared a look of understanding. They knew Ellie was hurting, and the thought of pursuing justice for Script was weighing heavily on her mind. Rosie placed a hoof on Ellie's, giving it a gentle squeeze.

"We understand, Ellie. You've been through a lot, and this is a difficult time for all of us. But we can't let this go unanswered."

Bookie leaned forward, her expression serious. "I agree with Rosie."

Ellie's eyes flashed with determination as she set down her sandwich. "You're right. We can't let this go unanswered. I want to help bring the one responsible to justice, no matter what it takes." She glanced at the clock on the wall, then back at Rosie and Bookie. "But first, I need to get back to Script. I can't leave her alone for too long." Rosie nodded in understanding. "Of course."

She stood up, her wings unfurling slightly as she prepared to leave. "Thank you both for being here for me. I don't know what I would have done without you."

Rosie and Bookie stood as well, both giving Ellie a gentle smile. "We're here for you, Ellie. Always." Bookie added, "And we'll be here for Script too. We won't let her face this alone." Ellie took a deep breath, steadying herself.

"Thank you." Ellie's claws trembled slightly as she rose from the table. "I should go back now."

She turned and started walking towards Script's room. Rosie and Bookie followed, keeping a respectful distance behind her. As they entered the hospital hallway, Ellie's steps slowed, her wings twitching nervously.

"I just hope she wakes up soon." Her voice was barely audible, laden with worry.

Lily walked into Script's room, finding Ellie standing beside her bed, her eyes puffy.

"Ellie?" Lily's voice was soft and concerned as she approached. "How are you holding up?"

Ellie turned to face Lily, her wings drooping slightly. "I'm... I'm okay, I think." She looked back at Script, who was still motionless in the bed. "But I'm more worried about her."

Lily moved to stand beside Ellie, her hoof gently resting on the griffon's back. "I understand. We all are."

Ellie's breath hitched, and she closed her eyes for a moment. "I just... I keep thinking about what she's been through. The abuse, the trauma..." Her voice broke, and she turned to face Lily, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I don't know how she'll ever recover from this."

Lily's expression was gentle and understanding. "Ellie, you can't think like that."

"But it's the truth," Ellie said, her voice trembling. "How can anypony come back from something so horrible? The scars it leaves, they don't just disappear." She glanced back at Script, her heart aching with the need to do something, anything, to help her friend.

Lily's hoof tightened slightly on Ellie's back, a silent show of support. "I know it seems impossible right now. But Script is strong, and she has all of us to support her," Lily added softly, her voice filled with conviction. "We won't let her face this alone. No matter how long it takes, we'll be here for her every step of the way."

Ellie's breath shuddered as she blinked back the tears threatening to fall. Lily's words filled her with a flicker of hope, but the weight of Script's trauma still pressed heavily upon her heart.

"I actually came to ask something though," Lily said. Ellie looked at her friend. "Do you know Script's sister, Portrait Binding?"

Ellie blinked in surprise at the question. "Portrait? Yes, I know her. She and Script are very close, despite their differences." She frowned slightly. "Why do you ask?"

Lily hesitated for a moment, then spoke, her voice low and serious. "I think we need to contact her. About Script."

Ellie's eyes widened, and she turned fully to face Lily. "You mean... tell her what happened?"

Lily nodded solemnly. "I think it's important."

Ellie's wings flared slightly, a mix of surprise and unease at the suggestion. "I don't know, Lily. Script and Portrait are so close, but this... this is a lot to burden anyone with."

She glanced back at Script's still form, her heart aching with the need to protect her friend, even from the weight of her own sister's knowledge. Lily's hoof gently squeezed Ellie's back, a silent show of understanding.

"Portrait is the only family she has left, not including her other siblings, of course."

Ellie's wings drooped slightly, her face set in a conflicted expression. "You're right, I know. It's just..." She sighed heavily, her eyes flickering to Script once more. "Script values her privacy so much. She's always been so... secretive, especially about her family. I'm not sure she'd want her sister to know."

Lily's expression softened with understanding. "I know, Ellie."

Lily's voice was gentle but firm. "But in this case, I think it's important for Portrait to know. Script needs all the support she can get, and her sister might be able to help in ways we can't."

Ellie nodded slowly, her wings twitching as she considered Lily's words. "You're right. I just hope we're doing the right thing." Lily gave her a reassuring smile.

"We are doing the right thing, Ellie. Portrait is her sister, and she deserves to know what's happened to her." Lily's hoof gently squeezed Ellie's back, a silent show of support. "I'll talk to the nurses and see if we can get in contact with her. In the meantime, why don't you sit with Script for a while? I know it helps to be close to her."

Ellie's eyes softened, and she turned to look at Script once more. "Thank you, Lily. You're right, I should be here with her."

She walked over to the chair beside Script's bed and sat down, her wings folding neatly behind her. "I just wish there was more I could do."

Lily's hoof gently patted Ellie's back before she turned to leave the room. "We'll figure this out, Ellie. Just remember, we're all in this together."

Ellie nodded, her eyes fixed on Script's still form as Lily left the room. She leaned forward, her wings wrapping around her body as she tried to process everything that had happened. The weight of Script's trauma pressed heavily on her, and she felt a renewed sense of guilt for not being able to prevent it. Her mind wandered to the day of the incident, replaying the moments leading up to it in her mind.

She recalled the way Script had seemed distracted and withdrawn, her usual vibrant personality dimmed by an unseen weight. Ellie had tried to coax her out of her shell, to no avail. Script had brushed off her concerns, insisting that everything was fine, even as the shadows in her eyes deepened.

Ellie's breath shuddered as she leaned closer to Script, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm here, Script. I'm here, and I won't leave you." Her eyes traced the lines of Script's face, searching for any sign of movement, any flicker of consciousness. "We're going to get through this together. You just have to wake up, okay?"

Ellie's words hung in the air as she gently took Script's hoof in her own, her touch feather-light. The sterile hospital room felt suffocatingly quiet, the only sound was the soft beeping of monitors and the occasional clopping of hooves in the hallway outside.

Ellie's eyes, welling with unshed tears, never left Script's face, searching for any sign of recognition or awareness.

Hope

As the days wear on, the ICU becomes a second home for Script's friends. Ellie barely leaves Script's side, her eyes constantly fixed on the steady beep of the machines that keep her friend alive. Script’s friends take shifts, coming in to relieve Ellie when they can, but the waiting is excruciating. Portrait, Script's sister, arrives one evening, her eyes red and puffy from crying.

She approaches the group gathered outside the ICU, her hooves quivering slightly. "I came as soon as I heard the news," she says, her words strained with emotion, "Is there... is there any change?"

Ellie's face contorts with pain, and she shakes her head. "No, Portrait. She's still the same. The doctors say... they say she might never wake up."

Portrait's face crumples at the news, and she lets out a soft whimper. She buries her face in her hooves, her body shaking with sobs. Lotus Moon steps forward, wrapping her around in a gentle hug. "I'm so sorry, Portrait," she whispers, her voice thick with emotion. "We're doing everything we can." Ellie turns to Lily, her eyes filled with determination.

"We need to do something, Lily. We can't just sit here and watch her slip away."

Lily nods, her face set in a firm line. "You're right, Ellie. We need to take action." She turns to Portrait, who is still in Lotus Moon's embrace. "Portrait, we need to tell the other family members. We need to bring them here, to show their support for Script."

Portrait nods, wiping away her tears. "Yes, you're right."

The friends stand in the hospital hallway, the fluorescent lights casting harsh shadows on their faces. Ellie's wings droop slightly, a physical manifestation of her exhaustion and sorrow. She turns to Lily and Lotus, her eyes intense.

"We should gather everyone sooner rather than later. It's time we tell them what happened to Script." Lily nods, her mane swaying gently as she moves.

"You're right, Ellie."

Portrait looked at her sister's friends in confusion. "What do you mean? What happened to my sister?"

Flare hesitates, glancing at the three mares for support. Lily gives her a small, encouraging nod.

"Portrait, we... we need to tell you something. It's about why Script tried to end her life."

Portrait's face contorts with confusion and apprehension. "End her life? What are you talking about?"

Flare steels herself, her wings quivering slightly as she speaks. "Your sister… she tried to commit suicide." The words hang in the air, heavy with the weight of their implication.

Portrait stares at Flare in shock, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Suicide? No, that's impossible. Script would never... I mean, why would she...?"

Ellie steps forward, her wings drooping in resignation. "I found her in her bathroom, Portrait. She had... she had cut herself. There was so much blood." Lotus moves to support Ellie, her hoof resting gently on her friend's back. "We got the ambulance right away, but by the time they got here, it was too late. She was already in critical condition."

Portrait's knees buckle, and she would have fallen if not for Lotus Moon's quick support. Her eyes dart between the four friends, disbelief and shock warring in her gaze. "No, no, no," she whispers, shaking her head. "This can't be happening. Script wouldn't... she wouldn't do this to us."

"Portrait," Lily says, her voice gentle but firm. "We need to be strong for Script. She needs us now more than ever."

Lotus nods, her eyes filled with determination. "Lily's right, Portrait. We can't let this break us. We need to stay united, for Script's sake."

Ellie gives Portrait's hoof a gentle squeeze. "Come on, Portrait. Let's go see her. We'll stay by her side, every step of the way."

Portrait nods slowly, her face still pale with shock. "Okay," she says, her words shaky. "I... I need to see her." The four friends and pegasus make their way to the ICU, the sterile white hallway stretching endlessly before them. As they approach the door, the beeping of medical equipment grows louder, a stark reminder of the fragile state of Script's life. Inside the ICU,

Script lies motionless on the bed, surrounded by machines and medical equipment. Ellie steps closer to the bed, her claw hovering hesitantly over Script's motionless body. She takes a deep, shuddering breath before gently resting her hoof on her friend's flank. The skin beneath is cold and lifeless, a chilling reminder of how close to the brink they all are.

"I'm sorry, Script," Ellie whispers, her voice breaking. "We should have done more. We should have been there for you, in ways we weren't."

As Ellie's words hang in the air, the machines around Script beep and whirr, the only sounds breaking the heavy silence. Portrait, standing beside Ellie, looks down at her sister, her eyes welling up with tears.

"Why, Script? Why did you do this?" she asks, her voice barely above a whisper.

Suddenly, the door to the ICU bursts open, and a team of doctors and nurses rush in, pushing a stretcher. One of the doctors, a tall stallion with a grim expression, shouts, "Code Blue! Everybody out!" Ellie and Portrait are quickly ushered out of the room, the doors closing behind them.

Outside the ICU, the friends huddle together, their faces reflecting their anxiety and fear. Ellie's wings tremble slightly, her claws clutching at her chest as if to calm her racing heart. Lotus Moon's hooves fidget nervously, while Lily's mane sways slightly as she shakes her head in disbelief. Flame Flare just stares at them, horrified. Portrait stands frozen, her face still pale and shocked, her mouth opening and closing as if she wants to say something but can't find the words.

The ICU door remains closed, muffling the sounds of the medical team working on Script. The friends stand in the hallway, a heavy silence hanging between them. Lily's eyes are fixed on the door, her ear twitching nervously.

"What's happening?" she whispers, her voice barely audible.

Ellie steps closer to Lily. "We don't know yet."

Ellie's wings droop as she stares at the closed ICU door, her claws clenching and unclenching anxiously. Portrait stands beside her, her face pale and her eyes wide with shock and fear. Lotus, Flare, and Lily huddle together, their expressions grim and worried. Suddenly, the door to the ICU bursts open, and a doctor rushes out, his expression serious.

"The family of Script, please come with me," he says, his voice urgent.

The friends exchange terrified glances as Portrait stepped forward following the doctor into a small, sterile room. He closes the door behind them,

"Please, have a seat," the doctor says, his voice grave. Portrait sits down, her eyes darting around the room, searching for answers.

"Is my sister going to be okay, Dr.?" Portrait asks, her voice trembling.

Dr. Hoofington's face stayed stoic.

"I'm afraid I can't give you a definitive answer at this time, Portrait. Script's condition is still critical, and we're doing everything we can to stabilize her. The surgery went well, but she lost a lot of blood, and we're monitoring her closely for any signs of infection or complications."

Portrait's eyes widen in fear, and she grips the edge of her seat tightly. "What do you mean, 'everything you can'? What aren't you telling us?"

Dr. Hoofington's expression softens slightly, though his words remain measured. "We're watching for signs of brain swelling and monitoring her heart function. Right now, we're focused on keeping her stable and supporting her body's healing processes. I can't make any guarantees, but I want you to know we're doing everything within our power to save her."

Portrait's breath catches in her throat, and she sways slightly in her seat.

Dr. Hoofington continues, his words laced with professionalism and compassion. "We'll keep you updated on any changes in Script's condition. For now, I suggest you all take some time to rest and gather yourselves."

The doctor's words hang heavy in the air as Script's eldest sister files out of the small room. Ellie rushes to her side to help her down the hallway. The sterile white walls and bright fluorescent lights seem to close in around them, amplifying the suffocating tension. Portrait's breaths come in short, panicked gasps as she leans into Ellie, her body trembling with each step.

Portrait's hooves stumble as she navigates the unfamiliar hospital corridors, the fluorescent lights seeming to flicker and blur at the edges of her vision. Ellie's supportive presence is her only anchor as the weight of the doctor's words threatens to overwhelm her. They come to a stop near a small waiting area, where a few other concerned faces glance up at their arrival. Portrait barely registers their presence, her entire being focused on the steady pounding of her heart and the burning in her eyes.

Portrait collapses into a chair, her hooves shaking uncontrollably as she buries her face in her hooves. Ellie kneels beside her, gently placing a comforting hoof on her back.

"Portrait, I know this is so hard, but we're here for you," Ellie says softly, her voice thick with emotion. "We'll get through this together." Lily, Flare, and Lotus join them, their expressions etched with worry and concern.

The sterile hospital atmosphere envelops the group as they gather in the waiting area. The harsh white lights above cast sharp shadows across their faces, emphasizing the strain and anxiety etched on each of their features. Ellie remains kneeling beside Portrait, her wings wrapped around her in a comforting gesture. Lily paces nervously, her hooves clopping softly against the linoleum floor. Lotus stands near the vending machine, her hooves fidgeting with a crumpled napkin.

They all sit in tense silence, the weight of the situation pressing down on them like a physical force. After what feels like an eternity, a nurse appears in the doorway of the waiting area, her face neutral.

"The doctor would like to speak with the family again. Please follow me."

Portrait got up making her way back to the small consulting room. As she enters, Dr. Hoofington smiles slightly.

Portrait sits down heavily, her hooves trembling as she tries to brace herself for what's coming next. Dr. Hoofington takes a seat across from her. "Portrait, I have an update on Script's condition,"

Portrait braces herself, her heart pounding in her chest. "What is it, doctor? Is she...?" Her voice trails off, unable to finish the thought.

Dr. Hoofington's expression softens, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Actually, there's been a small improvement. Script's vitals have stabilized, and we haven't seen any signs of further deterioration. It's a fragile situation, but it's a positive sign."

Portrait's breath catches in her throat, her hooves gripping the edge of her seat. "A positive sign? Does that mean...?"

Dr. Hoofington nods, a small smile on his face. "It means we're one step closer to recovery. We'll need to keep a close eye on her, but for now, the immediate danger seems to have passed."

Portrait breathes a deep sigh of relief, her body going slack as the tension drains away. "Thank you, Doctor," she murmurs, barely able to believe the words. "Thank you so much for everything you and your team have done."

Dr. Hoofington nods, a genuine smile gracing his face. "It's our privilege, Portrait. We're not out of the woods yet, but this is a significant step in the right direction."

Portrait's face lights up with a glimmer of hope, and she nods, her breathing steadying as she processes the news. "Can I... can I see her now? Even if it's just for a moment?" Dr. Hoofington's expression softens, and he nods.

"Of course. But I want to prepare you - she's still unconscious and on life support. The machines are keeping her stable, but she won't be responsive."

Portrait stands up, her hooves shaking slightly with anticipation. "I understand, Doctor. I just want to be there with her, if that's alright."

Dr. Hoofington smiles warmly. "Of course. Let me escort you to her room." He leads Portrait through the hospital corridors, the clatter of their hooves echoing in the sterile environment. They arrive at Script's room, and Dr. Hoofington pauses at the door.

"Remember, she won't be able to respond to you. But your presence might help her in ways we can't measure."

Portrait nods, her heart pounding in her chest as she prepares to enter the room. The door swings open, and she steps inside, her gaze immediately drawn to the small figure in the bed. Script lies motionless, surrounded by beeping machines and tubes.

Her chest rises and falls steadily with the help of the ventilator. Portrait's hooves quiver as she approaches the bed, her eyes welling up with unshed tears. She gently takes Script's hoof in her own, her voice thick with emotion.

"Hey, little sister. I'm here now. I'm so sorry I wasn't there for you when you needed me most." She leans down, resting her forehead against Script's. "You're going to be okay," she whispers. "I know it... You're strong, Scripty."

Portrait's hooves still trembled as she held onto Script's hoof. The rhythmic beeping of the machines is the only sound in the room, a constant reminder of the delicate balance they're in. She stays by her side for a long moment, pouring all her love and support into that small touch, willing her to feel it even in her unconscious state. Portrait turns around to tell everypony the good news. Script was going to be alright.

She walked out of Script's room, everypony eagerly waiting outside.

"Well?"

Portrait's face lights up with a glimmer of hope, and she nods, her breathing steadying as she processes the news. "It's... it's good news. The doctor says her vitals have stabilized, and there's no sign of further deterioration. It's still a fragile situation, but they think she's out of immediate danger."

The friends exchange relieved looks, their faces reflecting the same complex emotions.

"That's... that's wonderful news," Ellie says, a small, hesitant smile spreading across her face. "I can't believe it. I thought... I thought we might lose her." She moves closer, her wings quivering slightly. "Can I see her now? I want to be there for her, even if she can't respond."

Portrait nods, her face showing her exhaustion. "I'm going to go sit down and get some rest. I'll be in the waiting room if you need me." She gives Ellie a gentle nudge with her hoof before heading off to find a quiet corner to rest, her mind still reeling from the emotional rollercoaster of the day.

Ellie takes a deep breath, steeling herself for what she might see. She enters Script's room, her claws making soft thuds on the sterile floor. The room is dimly lit, with only a small lamp by the bed providing a soft glow. Script lies motionless in the bed, her chest rising and falling steadily with the help of the ventilator. Ellie approaches slowly, her heart pounding in her chest. She gently takes Script's hoof in her own, her eyes welling up with unshed tears.

"Hey, Script," Ellie says softly, her words thick with emotion. "I'm here now." Ellie's voice cracks as she continues, "I should have been here sooner. I'm so, so sorry, Script. I promise, I'll be here for you from now on." She pauses, gathering her thoughts.

"Do you remember what you wrote in your letter? You said you didn't want to burden anyone. But Script, you're not a burden. You never were. You're our friend, and we care about you."

Ellie's voice grows stronger as she speaks, her resolve evident. "We're going to get through this together, okay? I know you're strong, and I know you can fight this. Just... just don't give up." She leans down, resting her forehead against Script's. "Please, come back to us." Ellie's hooves still trembled as she held onto Script's hoof.

Anger

Darkness...

That's all I can see...

My body floats through the cold abyss.

I feel weightless, as if I'm suspended in an endless void. My mind is a whirlwind of thoughts, memories, and fears. The darkness is disorienting, but I can sense something - a faint, warm light in the distance. It seems to call out to me, beckoning me closer. I try to move towards it, but my body is sluggish, unresponsive. Panic starts to rise within me, but I push it down.

The light grows brighter, more defined. As I focus on it, I can make out the faint outlines of shapes. It's as if I'm approaching a barrier, a membrane between this darkness and something... else. My mind struggles to understand what it is, to comprehend what I'm seeing. But the effort to do so feels monumental, as if my very consciousness is being strained to its limit.

I feel a soft mattress underneath me with a fluffy pillow. A warm blanket layed on top of me. I heard birds singing outside.

My eyes flutter open, and I'm greeted by the soft, sterile glow of the hospital room. The machines around me beep and hum, their rhythm familiar now. I try to move, but my body feels heavy, sluggish. My vision is blurry, but I can make out the shapes of ponies sitting by my bedside. "Script...?" I turn, finding my friend Ellie.

Her eyes are red-rimmed, and her wings droop slightly, but there's a warmth in her gaze that sends a wave of comfort through me.

"Ellie," I manage to whisper, my voice hoarse.

She leans in, taking my hoof in hers. "You're awake," she says, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth. "We were so worried about you." I rub my head, trying to process what's happening.

"Script, I can't tell you how relieved I am to see you awake. When you didn't come to the bakery and Lily found your letter, we were so scared. We thought... we thought we might lose you."

Ellie's words hit me like a punch to the gut. I feel a surge of anger rising within me, hot and intense. How dare they? How dare they interfere with my plans, my choice? I wanted to die, to escape the pain and the shame that consumed me. And now, here they are, acting like they did me a favor by saving my life. I try to sit up, but my body is still weak, and I collapse back onto the pillow.

Ellie's eyes widen as she sees the anger flare in my eyes. "Script, please, just listen to me-" she starts, but I cut her off.

"No!" I snap, my voice raw with emotion. "You had no right to interfere, Ellie. No right at all!" I struggled to sit up, my body shaking with the effort. "You don't understand what I've been through. The pain, the shame... it was unbearable."

Ellie recoils slightly at my outburst, her grip on my hoof tightening briefly before she releases it. "Script, I... I know it's difficult to understand right now, but we did what we thought was best. We couldn't lose you." Her voice is soft, but firm. "You're our friend, and we care about you. More than you know."

I scoff, turning my head away from her. "Care? You call barging in and ruining my plans 'care'?" I hiss, my voice dripping with venom. "You don't know anything about what I've been through. You can't possibly understand the torment I've endured."

Ellie leans back, visibly hurt by my words. "You're right, Script. I don't know exactly what you've been through. But I know that whatever it is, you don't have to face it alone." Ellie's eyes soften with empathy as she listens to my outburst. She takes a deep breath, her wings fluttering slightly as she gathers her thoughts.

"Script, I understand that you're angry and hurting right now. And I know that my words might not mean much to you at the moment. But please, just hear me out." She leans forward, her gaze locked on me. "You're right, I don't know exactly what you've been through."

Ellie's voice is laced with sincerity. "But I do know that whatever it is, you don't have to face it alone. We're here for you, all of us. Lily, Lotus Moon, Flame Flare… Everypony. We all care about you deeply. We want to help you through this, no matter how hard it might be." She pauses, her wings drooping slightly as she continues.

"I know it's difficult to understand right now, but we did what we thought was best. We couldn't lose you." Her voice is soft, but firm. "You're our friend, and we care about you. More than you know."

I only glare staring at my bandaged hooves, clenching them. Ellie hung her head. "You probably don't want to talk to me right now, I'll just let you be for now..."

Ellie slowly rises, her wings drooping as she moves toward the door. She pauses, looking back at me. "Just remember, Script. We're not going anywhere. We'll be here when you're ready to talk." She gives me a small, hopeful smile before quietly leaving the room, her hoofsteps fading away. The hospital room feels eerily quiet now, the soft hum of machines and the faint chirping of birds outside the window the only sounds.

I lay there, staring at the ceiling, my mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. Anger, frustration, and a deep, gnawing resentment simmered beneath the surface. How could they? How dare they interfere with my choice, my only escape from the unrelenting torment that had consumed my every waking moment? I closed my eyes, trying to block out the sterile white walls and the incessant beeping of the machines.

I take a deep breath, inhaling the sterile scent of the hospital room. The anger still boils within me, but there's something else too, a deep-seated sadness that threatens to overwhelm me. I can't believe they did this to me. They took away my choice, my only way out.

I hear the door creak open, and I turn my head to see my sister Portrait cautiously entering the room. "Script," she says softly, her wings folded tightly against her back as she approaches the bed. "I'm so glad you're awake."

She moves to sit in the chair beside the bed, her eyes searching my face. "We've all been so worried about you."

I don't respond, just continue staring at the ceiling. The silence stretches between us, thick and heavy. After a moment, Portrait speaks again, her words laced with emotion.

"I know you're angry, Script. I know you feel like we've taken away your choice. But please, just listen to me for a moment." She leans forward, her wings unfurling slightly as she reaches for my hoof. "You're not alone in this. We're here for you, no matter what you're going through."

I pull my hoof away, unable to meet her gaze. "Leave me alone, Portrait," I snap, my voice barely above a whisper. "Just go. All of you, just go." I turn my head away from her, trying to block out her presence.

The anger still burns within me, but now it's joined by a profound sense of betrayal. I can't believe they did this to me. Portrait sighs, and I hear her stand up and move towards the door.

I pulled the blanket over me as I curled up and began sobbing. The sobs wrack my body, each one a release of the pent-up emotion I've been holding back. The sterile hospital room feels suffocating, the white walls closing in around me as I weep. I can't believe they did this to me.

They took away my choice, my only way out. The anger and betrayal I feel are overwhelming, but beneath it all, there's a deep, gnawing sadness that threatens to consume me.

I lay awake as I heard my sister talking to the nurse outside my room. "Any luck?" she asks.

"No, not tonight, unfortunately." the nurse sounded sorrowful. "She refuses to eat anything we give her."

"And her vital signs?"

"They've remained stable, thankfully, though she's growing increasingly weak from malnutrition. We may need to consider alternative methods to ensure proper nourishment soon."

I hear my sister's muffled conversation with the nurse outside my room, their voices filled with concern and frustration. The mention of alternative methods to ensure nourishment sends a chill down my spine.

No, I won't let them force-feed me or subject me to any other invasive procedures. I'll find a way to end this torment, no matter what it takes. As the night wears on, I lay in the darkened hospital room, my mind racing with thoughts of escape.

The nurse's footsteps approach my room again, and she enters with a tray of food. "Good evening, Script. I've brought your dinner." She sets the tray on the bedside table, her smile strained. "You really need to eat something to regain your strength."

I turn my head away, refusing to acknowledge her or the food. The nurse sighs, placing a hand on my shoulder.

"Script, please. You need to eat something. We're worried about you." The nurse's voice is gentle, but there's an undercurrent of concern in her tone. She lifts the tray, holding it closer. "Just a few bites. That's all I'm asking."

I can't bring myself to look at her, to meet her concerned gaze. All I can think about is how they've all failed me.

They took away my choice, my only way out. The nurse's persistence is starting to annoy me. I want to be left alone, to be allowed to end this pain.

"Leave it," I finally say, my voice hoarse and weak from lack of use. "I'm not hungry. I don't want it."

The nurse hesitates, then lowers the tray back onto the table. She sighs, her expression softening. "Alright, Script. I won't force you. But please, reconsider. Your body needs nourishment to heal."

She takes a step back, then turns to leave, casting one last concerned glance in my direction. I could hear her talking to my sister once more. "We might have to take further action and admit her to the psych ward."

"What?"

"She's showing clear signs of depression and refusing to eat. At this point, we can't risk her continuing to deteriorate."

"But she needs to make the decision to live for herself, right?" Portrait protests.

"We may not have a choice. She's becoming too weak to make any decisions." The nurse's voice is laced with worry as she speaks to my sister, and I strain to hear what they're discussing.

"Psych ward," I whisper to myself, my body shaking. The very idea fills me with dread. The thought of being locked away in a sterile institution, surrounded by strangers and their judgment, makes my skin crawl. I won't let it happen.

I won't become another statistic, another number in their system. No, I'll find a way to end this torment, no matter what it takes. As I lie there in the dark, I can feel my strength gradually fading and exhaustion taking over me.

I drift off to sleep, the exhaustion of the past few days catching up to me. My dreams are a swirl of fragmented images and emotions - the shame of my abuse, the anger at being stopped from my suicide attempt, and the overwhelming sadness that threatens to consume me.

Author's Note

Alrighty, now to finish writing the sequel! I'm actually feeling super inspired right now, and might just stay up all night writing while the drive is there.

The Letter

Author's Note

Before you read this, just know I don't plan to seek attention from this. I'm just rewriting an old story to show how much I've improved, and rewriting my character's background. Thank you, and enjoy the fanfic.

The Letter

To whom it may concern,

By the time you read this, I will be dead.

I know that you all love me so much, and care deeply, I wouldn’t trade that for anything. I have wonderful friends who mean the world to me, but many of you don’t know what I’ve gone through… You don’t see the darker sides of me.

Earlier this summer, I was sexually assaulted. A few of you knew about it, but I didn’t want to tell everyone. I wasn’t ready. This has caused me to have terrifying nightmares, and I just can’t take them anymore…

I can’t handle the voices, they just scream in my ears constantly… The memory, constantly flashing through my mind, the memory of HIM taking something away from me…

I’ve been trying to get help, but just couldn’t find the courage to, I don’t want anypony seeing me when I’m vulnerable, it just makes me feel weak… I never wanted to burden anypony… I’m weak… I let myself get raped by that MONSTER… I didn’t even fight back… Besides, even if I could get help, could I really trust them? Even then, I can’t get myself to open up about it, it’s just too horrifying…

So what’s the point in living if I just can’t handle the pain and trauma anymore…?

Please, take care of yourselves when I’m gone. I don’t want you to suffer because of me, none of this was anypony’s fault. It was all mine… I’m sorry it had to come to this….

- Script Singer

Lilly dropped the letter, running frantically out the door, not bothering to close it behind her. She ran to warn the others.

She could only hope she wasn’t too late…