-Somewhere on Earth-
Usually, it would be raining at things like this, but I guess that's how it is in the movies. You know, the pouring rain, the dark, foreboding clouds, weeping people, and the priest or pastor. Such should be thought of with funerals. Sad and depressing. Not today.
Today was bright, sunny, and happy.
And I felt the exact opposite.
True, so did everyone else there with me, but I took it the hardest. I had to. Selfish, I know, but these... my...
I clenched my hands till my knuckles turned white, kept blinking to stay off the flood of tears, I did EVERYTHING... to stifle the sobbing from within myself... I kept whatever composure I had left up and going, as I watched the caskets-- an adult, an adolescent, and... an infant-- descend into the ground, where they would rest. Rest until judgement day, or forever, or... I- I don't know. I just don't know anymore. Except for one thing.
I failed them.
-Somewhere on Equis-
A long, drawn out sigh escaped the immortal being of chaos. A deadpanned look was resting where his face was, his crazily dressed body slouched on the couch he was sitting on, and his eyes being half-lidded and betraying what was actually the reason for the expression of an almost contemptuous nature.
Strictly speaking, Discord is bored. He smiles at the bad rhyming.
I admit, being reformed has its perks, especially now that I have friends, a concept that I lacked in my "pre-stoned" life. His smile grows bigger at the bad pun, yet it falls as fast as it came.
His inner thoughts are reiterated as he looks around the room. All the friends he's made, here in Ponyville, are busy with the festivities. What's the occasion? The anniversary of the town's founding, being held in the ballroom, as well as outside, of the Friendship Castle. Men, women, and children; descendants of Equinian, Zebrican, Mulian races alike. It doesn't even matter if you're a magi, valkyrie, or terran. Everyone is welcome.
He sees his closests friends. Though they have been mingling more to share their company with the rest of the town, they are now together, sharing a quick laugh and their time. Truly the very example of loving friendship. It warmed his former stoned heart. He chuckled, and observed more.
Pinkie Pie, random, pretty, and pretty crazy, but optimistic in nature, set up the town wide party. Her energy knew no bounds. If they were to collect a sample, a small teaspoon, it'd power the world's reserves for a century... maybe. Whatever. I don't really care, I just like laughter a lot.
Applejack, element of honesty. Toned out like the beautiful farm girl that she is. She's helped with some of the refreshments, and provided some of the games. She's very reliable, and the very honorable definition of what the founders of this town, her ancestors, would be proud of today.
Rarity... still the diva of the place, but humble about it. She's helped Pinkie decorate the town, and hired a few camera crews from fashion places to provide memories.
Rainbow Dash, now Wonderbolt, and married. Can you believe that? Out of all her friends, she got hitched first. Soarin's a good man, and will take care of her. Or himself. Rainbow's a tough cookie.
Fluttershy, oh where do I start? She's kind, loving, smart, funny, beautiful, divine, sexy--- moving on!
Discord looked to and fro to see if anyone noticed him trying to calm his now flushed face.
There is also young Spike, the dragonkin. Though not here with the group right now, he's spending time with Starlight and Trixie, outside the castle somewhere. Basically, they're like me, only less crazy... oh what am I saying, they're women. Haha! Oh, I'm glad they can't read minds.
Twilight Sparkle, former protégé of Princess Celestia, only to become the now Princess of Friendship... still a stick in the mud, but what princess isn't (Besides Cadence)? And while she's doing her best to be a good teacher for her students, and ruler for her subjects, I can see a mile away that she's feeling very, very lonely... or gassy, but whatever.
Chuckling to himself, he soon came back to his former predicament. Being bored.
Hmm... What can I do?... Discord thought, while trying to come up with a way to be chaotic and not get in trouble for it. It's hard when there's not only six women breathing down your neck constantly-- Heh!
Giggity-- but how society is hoping you wont turn the world upside down. Literally.
Hmm...
-Back on Earth-
I don't know how I made it home. I'm so numb. So...
Everything was a blur. I received condolences from friends and family, from my co-workers, from my pals from the base... even my commanding officer was there.
It felt like forever, yet didn't, when the reception ended. I didn't really pay attention when I made it to the store, and bought a lot of cheap beer. I didn't care after my sixth bottle that I was swerving on the road.
Yet I made it home... stumbling through the door with as many cases of booze as I could hold and didn't drop outside. I dropped and somewhat threw said cases on the floor. Some broken glass was heard, with the floor getting wet.
"Thhe fffuck do I caare..." I slurred as I proceeded to wreck more of the house. From smashing windows, cupboards, and the tv to flipping the table, couch, and destroying anything else that I got drunkenly mad at. My house was unkempt before the funeral of my family, but now... Heh, it's like a glorified crack house. I laugh at my stupid joke, only to get more pissed and destroy more of my home.
I get to a point that I'm so winded that I heave up my lunch and alcohol, only to grab more beer, and drink away my sorrows. I sit on the floor of my wrecked living room, and reflect on what I should do now.
"What's the point... I can't go on..." I say, as I spot one of the closest picture frames on the floor. I proceed to pick it up and pull out the picture from amidst the broken glass and plastic. With my foggy vision, blurring more with tears, I look upon the smiling faces of my family. We're at a park, by a tree, smiling towards the camera. Then I lose it some more, sobbing into the picture. I then take the last swig of my... however many I had.
"W-w-wwhat's Thhee point..." I drunkenly sob to myself, contemplating my next move...
-Back in Ponyville-
Discord is still bored with his thoughts, until he feels a soft tap on his forehead. Startled, he looks up to find the giggling form of his... he flushes a bit. Friend. Berating himself, mentally.
"Are you having fun Discord?" Fluttershy said, while trying, and failing, to stifle giggles caused from his reaction. Though she is being mirthful, she has that kind, concerned look towards her friend.
"Ah, Fluttershy." Discord says, composing himself and rising from his seat. He continues with a mocking nobleman's tone as he bows, "with you around, it is always a party worth attending." He looks up to see that, to his delight, Fluttershy has gone a couple shades red.
"O-oh, my," she replies whilst nervously tapping her index fingers together. That's when Discord rises and laughs. This is when she realizes Discord is being Discord, and she joins in the laughing.
"To be honest, there's not much to do. But I guess that's because I haven't been outside since the party started." Discord said after their little laugh.
"Oh, you should, Discord. There are more activities to do." She said, and then nervously looked away and started to tap her fingers together. "T-there's even an area t-to... dance..." She said, as her cheeks turned pink. This did not go unnoticed by Discord, or even undone.
"O-oh, well..." Discord stuttered (yes, you heard right). As he rubbed the back of his neck, he looked down into the eyes of the girl that's about two feet shorter than him, and felt many of the namesake marks on her upper arms fluttering inside him... That sounded better in my head.... Anyway, he saw in her eyes what must've been anticipation and, almost... longing? "In that case, how about we have a dance later?"
Almost immediately, her eyes sparkled more radiantly.
"Really?!" She exclaims loudly, almost shouting, which comes in as a surprise to them both, and others within hearing range. "I- I mean... I'd love to..." She said, softer this time.
"Great. I'll meet you out there then. Say... six?" He said, after seeing the clock that read five-thirty.
"Sounds good. See you then Discord." Fluttershy said as she slowly backed away, then turned and left.
"Ta-ta, Fluttershy. Until six..." Discord said waving and watching her (among other "things") slip back towards the other side of the room. He then sighed and decided to slip outside the backdoor of the ballroom (that he conjured) to the outside to get some fresh air. Just as the door was closing, he heard a very loud and very girly high pitched squealing coming from inside, that sounded oddly like his six friends... huh... Shrugging, he continued on floating from the third story of the castle, as the door closed completely and vanished, to the ground where he continued to float on his side and think.
"What to do, what to do..." He said to himself, as he thought about the chaos to be had. That's when it hit him. "What if..."
He pulled a double-bell alarm clock out of his jacket, which had hands with white, four-fingered gloves, pointing to words that said "tornado" and "fox-truck."
"Eh, it's been five minutes, I have time." He said, as he stretched his arms out on both sides, snapped with both hands at the same time, and a wormhole opened in front of him. Looking from side-to-side to make sure no one was looking, he entered into the abyss, looking for something fun to bring to Equis. Fun, not dangerous, he thought as the portal closed behind him. Funny thing about fate, you can really jinx yourself.
-Back on Earth-
*Vrrrmm* *Vrrrmm*
I come out from sobbing when I hear my phone on the hard floor of my kitchen, it probably fell out during the scuffle. I go to stand up and I fall over. Cursing, I just decide to half roll, half crawl to my ringing phone.
*Vrrrmm* *Vrrrmm*
As soon as I get to it, I see a familiar name. I don't want to answer it, but I know if I don't, they're gonna keep calling until I do or just come over. So, coming to a conclusion, I answer it.
"H-hey Brian." I say half-heartedly.
"Chuck?!..." Exclaimed my friend on the other end, only to pause. Apparently he couldn't believe his ears. "Shit, dude, you sound terrible!"
"Ha! You should sshee my houses, haha!" I say loudly, only to cough a bit and throw up some. Damn, how much did I drink?
"Jesus, Chuck, are you drunk?"
"No, I'm totally fine... just a few beers. Nothing too big..." I say snarkily.
"That's total bullshit!" Brian snaps back, only to soften his tone. "Chuck, this isn't the right thing to do right now. You can't just go off drinking like this, especially on the night of your families--"
"Don't you FUCKING tell me what to do!!" I scream at the phone. "I'll do whatever I DAMN WELL PLEASE! There ain't nothing you, or my wife and kids can do!..."
It's quiet after my outburst, especially on the other line, to the point where I thought I broke my phone or he hung up. I don't know, it's still a blur. My suspicions proved to be untrue when I heard Brian's soft voice.
"Chuck... I'm sorry... I'm just trying to help... I'm trying to be a friend here and make sure you're okay." He says, as I feel guilt start to grow with every word. I almost want to believe that there's still a chance. "How about I come over? You know, keep you company."
I was gonna say yes... I think. I don't know, it's hard to think. I just don't care anymore. I've lost everything. Everything that I wanted... I lost my most important dream, they're gone...
"Chuck?"
...
"I'm sorry," I say, as I go to press end on the phone call, probably my last.
"No, Chuck! Wait! Let me come over! Don't do thi--"
I've made up my mind. There's nothing... nothing that can stop me now.
-Somewhere...?-
Annoyance.
That's the feeling that was felt for oh so long... or short? It's hard to tell since there's no time here. No space. No nothing... Yet there is.
The space between time and space is just that: space. There is nothing, but emptiness. It's just a void, something to keep worlds, multiverses, realms, and head-butting species apart. Just space.
Unless you are an anomaly that was trapped within this spot. The thing that all have feared for aeons, that was defeated on a whim, and, at the moment can only comprehend one feeling because of this environment... annoyance.
Within this valley of pure nothingness, between realms, It is at the right spot to catch the frequency of a particular... male? Yeah, that. Anyway, he, the male, was crying. Coming from a particular realm, It heard the echoing remains of the sound traveling through the silent emptiness.
UgH! iF tHiS wAs HeLl, I'd UnDeRsTaNd... It was very annoyed. It thought It heard him talking, but, for some reason, the sobbing was always the loudest. It didn't understand, nor cared. It just sat there; floated there, waiting for something to happen.
Then it did.
-Still Somewhere, but a ways away-
Discord hopped through the portal, from a gravity centered planet to a void that's probably never heard nor experienced the concept. Just the way I like it... Being himself, he didn't mind.
"Now!" He said, as he clapped and rubbed his hands together, whilst staring out into the inky, swirly abyss. "What can I find that'll stir up chaos?"
So he went to work. He opened a portal to a world that had carnivorous beasts of great size. Eh, too gnarly. Then he opened one that had cute little colorful bears with marks on their stomachs. It closed as fast as it opened.
"Nope!... Never again..." He said to himself, with tears in his eyes. "Ugh... so stupid... Note to self: if I'm going back, I'm taking Flutters."
Shaking his head, he went a few feet (miles?) away and opened another portal. He ended up staring into the eyes of an equally surprised old man in a lab coat and what looked like drool dripping down his lower lip. Next to him was a teen boy in a yellow shirt, that seemed more terrified than surprised. Everyone was quiet for a second.
"Rick." Discord said, changing to a carefree, deadpanned look.
"Discord." The old man, Rick replied, adopting his own I-dont-give-a-shit look. "How's the chao-uuuuurrpps business?
"It's fine, just looking for something fun." Discord replied, not wanting to tell him that he's basically "settled down." He'd never let me hear the end of it. Turning to the kid, he asks, "Who's he?"
"Oh, this is my grandson, Morty. He urrp goes with me on errands and stuff. Say hi, dumb shit."
"O-o-oh, uh, hi there. N-nice place you got." Morty said, trying to be friendly and not scared of the weird looking man.
"Oh, I don't live here. I come here when I'm bored. Getting stuff or visiting other worlds. Kinda like your grandfather 'does'." Discord said, emphasising the last bit sarcastically.
"Hey, the shit I get is for a good purpose." Rick said, with a bit of agitation.
"But Rick, you've been getting stuff to make drugs--"
"Again, good purpose, Morty. It makes me and others feel good, and I get money in return, hence the purpose is met by making others wanna buy more to feel better about their shit-tastic lives." He turns to Discord, "Hey, you need some more stuff? I have some Kalaxian Crystals on me."
Very. Tempting. with dilated pupils and drool from the corner of his mouth, Discord was reminiscing about the best high in any universe.
But...
"Sorry Rick. Maybe next time." Discord said, whilst biting his cheek and sweating from his eyes. Though he wanted to have some more, he knew that the last time he did... that was a dark six months in Equestria. Literally and figuratively. He doesn't even remember half of it, and most of the Equestrians back then went insane. Shaking his head and shivering a bit, he continues, "but I actually gotta go. Poker your place Friday?
"Yeah, yeah, whatever. See ya later, bro."
Discord did what he thought was best in this situation, smirking a shit-eating smirk, and lifting his hand with one finger: "Peace among worlds, Rick."
"Blow me." Rick scowled before the portal closed.
"Hahaha." Discord laughed, "what a dick." He managed to say while he was laughing pretty hard.
As he was laughing, and going about different portals, he was being watched the whole time. The thing that was annoyed was now starting to see hope. He could go back to where this being came from and wreak havoc wherever he goes. Anything to get away from this infernal cry---
"AAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRGGHHHH!!!..."
Everything seemed to stop and hold still even more as attention from those within the void seemed to be looking towards a particular spot of nothing. Discord, never hearing a scream of that magnitude pierce the fabric of space and time, treaded lightly towards the source.
Something was wrong.
-On Earth-
"OOWWW!!... FUCK!!!..."
Oh shit... that's a lot of blood. Who would've thought that cutting your wrists and elbow joints would still hurt when you're drunk. Heh, not I, said the duck. I might as well be one. Yeah... be reincarnated into a duck. If that stuff is true, anyway. It's hard to tell, since I'm still alive, and I'm feeling dizzy. Maybe I'll bleed out before I make it to the rope.
I push open the door to one of the untouched rooms that I've always felt calm in... my work room... heh, being a military scientist by profession can really make people think weird things about you, at least that's what Brian thought when we first met. Ha! He felt so bad... maybe he'll feel worse when I'm gone?...
Psh! I'm not backing out. I'm gonna die anyway, might as well get it over with before I start thinking straight.
I get up on the chair, put the noose around my neck. My vision starts to fade and I'm about to lose my balance. I manage to steady myself long enough to look at the semi-blood covered note that simply reads: "Traveling with family. Where I'm going, don't follow."
As I read the last word, my legs collapse and the chair falls out. My neck gets caught. I don't hear a pop or anything. Can't breathe. Can barely move. I'm conflicted. Should I have done this? Can't see. Oh, God. Now I can't move. I'm about to--
A bright, white light. I can barely see him. The angel of death comes to claim me. He's gonna take me to hell... huh, he looks weird, especially his yellow and red eyes. Why is he frantic?
Then, light and darkness pass by me, and even through me. Great pain. My body or soul is being tormented? Coursing through my veins is something, is this my demon of hell coming to torment me forever?
cLoSe EnOuGh... HahAHa...
...
What?
-Ponyville-
The party is still going strong. Everyone is having fun with whomever they're spending their time with. Friends, family, and, for some, their significant other.
In the center of town there are many who are doing this joyfully, whether it be at the games, rides, around the streets of the small village, listening to the music, or even dancing. One such person is waiting at this outdoor dance area for the one that said they'd be there, at six o'clock... that's in ten minutes.
Fluttershy, shaking with nerves and anxiety, is waiting for Discord, along with her friends. While they chatter with one another, Fluttershy can't help but feel a little doubt clouding her mind.
What if he doesn't come? He seemed like he really wanted to... oh, I hope I wasn't too assertive.
With these thoughts and more in her mind, she was thinking about running home and waiting out the storm of depression that was about to fully take hold. That is, until her best friend from her childhood wrapped her in a side hug.
"Hey Flutters, you okay?" The Speed Queen and Wonderbolt Rainbow Dash said. For some reason, since she got married, she has lightened up a bit. It's like she became more loyal AND understanding of others. She's still the same RD that won't go down without a fight, but she is more relaxed and patient when it comes to others. "You know, if you need me to find Discord and let him have it, I'll totally do it, ya know?" Rainbow said with a smile and winked.
Despite the fact that Rainbow was implying violence, Fluttershy knew she was only kidding... half kidding. With her giggle, Fluttershy caught the attention of the rest of her friends.
"It's okay, Rainbow. He'll come." I hope "He's probably playing with the kids or something. You know how much the kids like him." Fluttershy said, still grinning to herself.
"If you mean by doing the most vile of things, then yes, he's the best role model." Rarity sarcastically said, while whipping her hair behind her shoulders, which in turn smacked Applejack in the face.
"There's nothin' wrong with a little fun ev'ry now 'n then, Rares." Applejack said, keeping her temper in check.
"You mean tormenting the town with his antics is "fun?" I can't believe you Applejack." Rarity said, voice rising and attracting attention. "Do you know what he did the other day?"
"Ooh! Ooh! I know! I know! He took some of Wiona's poo-poo and put it in a paper bag, lit it on fire, put in on your front porch, knocked, and ran?" Pinkie said, in one go.
At first, everyone was quiet, until Rarity asked "how did you know?"
"Well, duu~uh! I helped him out silly!" Pinkie said, with an innocent personality that knew no bounds. Needless to say, everyone within earshot did their best to hold in the laughter, though Rainbow failed.
"Pinkie!" Rarity said. "I am appalled! I had to stomp the fire out, and I got that icky dog... eck-- on my new high heels!"
When this was said everyone was laughing, Rainbow especially, who was on the ground, practically crying.
Seeing her pouting to herself, Twilight came up to Rarity after her giggle fit. She placed a hand on her shoulder and gave her a warm smile.
"Rarity, I'm sorry, but if you look at it from their perspective, it is pretty funny." Rarity thought about this for a second until Twilight continued, "if it's any consolation, I'd be mad too, if I was in-- heh-- your shoes."
Despite the terrible pun, Rarity couldn't help but smile and laugh. Soon, everyone was happily enjoying themselves and each other. It was around this time that three more people came to join the group.
"Hey guys! Enjoying the party?" Twilight asked. Spike, Starlight, and Trixie came close with a few prizes and snacks from the different venues.
"You bet, Twilight. Everyone is having a blast!" Spike exclaimed. Trixie and Starlight chuckled at Spike's excitement and went to talk to the other girls, leaving Spike to talk to Twilight.
Having been a few years since they moved to Ponyville, Spike has grown. Once being at 4' 1", now is at 5' 9". A lot of girls have been ogling him. Twilight's thoughts of her number one assistant and surrogate son have caused her to become very proud of her little dragonkin. I haven't heard about him going to the Boutique to see Rarity. I wonder... It was at this point that Spike spoke, which snapped Twilight out of her deep thoughts.
"Twilight, I was wondering if I could have a few bits?" Spike was being bashful, which caused Twilight to become more curious. "You see," Spike continued, "there's this cool ride that I wanna go on and, well, I was gonna ask someone if they'd like to go too, but I haven't asked them yet, but I'm sure if they see I already got them a ticket then they'd go and maybe she would then be willing to hang out with me more and--"
Spike stopped when he felt Twilight put a few bits in his hand and saw her warm smile. He was more surprised when Twilight brought him in for a warm hug.
"Oh Spike." She said warmly. "I'm so proud of you." Her voice started to crack as he returned the hug and she tightened the hold. "I love you so much."
Given that he was an adolescent teenager, he would usually play it off as gross, but this was different. He and Twilight would always exchange their feelings with each other, because they're family, but this... this was different.
"Twilight?" Spike asked, half chuckling, as he pulled away, then became even more worried when he saw tears streaming down her cheeks. "Are you okay?"
"Hee hee. Yes, silly." Twilight giggled, as she wiped away her tears. Her smile was holding strong. "I couldn't be happier, or more proud of you. You're growing up."
"Haha. Come on, Twi, you're embarrassing me. Still..." Spike brought her in for another hug, "I love you, too. You're the best Mom anyone could ever have."
Whatever she was about to say came out as a choked sob and the tears came again. Twilight hugged him tighter, not wanting to let go. But, good things need to come to an end at some point.
"Okay, big boy, go have fun with Sweetie Belle, and don't stay out too late..." Twilight said smugly with a wink.
"Okay, thanks Twi, I will--" He stopped mid sentence and turned, slowly looking towards Twilight with wide, slitted eyes. "How did you...?" He whispered.
"I have my ways," she whispered back, wiping away the last of her tears. "Now go." She smiled again.
He smiled in return and ran, towards where Sweetie was last seen. Twilight smiled after her not-so-little boy anymore, but growing dragon-born. She stayed like this until she heard relative silence and felt eyes on her; seven pairs to be exact. She turned and saw her friends with warm smiles on their faces, some misty eyed.
"What?" She laughed. They all turned back to their conversations, except for Fluttershy, who approached her friend.
"Has anyone told you you're an amazing mother, Twilight?" Fluttershy asked with a warm smile and kind eyes.
Blushing a bit, Twilight tried to brush it off. "Oh, I'm not that great. You should see us fighting sometimes." They both laughed.
"Well, I hope I'm as good as you someday. One of my biggest dreams, and fears, is to be a mother. I hope I can have a good relationship with my children as you do with Spike." Fluttershy finished, hoping she didn't offend Twilight.
On her part, Twilight never saw this side of Fluttershy before. She always assumed that Fluttershy would be too scared or didn't want to be a mom at all. Guess what happens when you assume... her Dad would always say. Before she could encourage her, she was beaten to the punch.
"You know, Fluttershy, I bet you'd be amazing as a mother," Starlight said, catching everyone's attention. "From what I read in the Friendship reports, you protected the cutie mark crusaders when they were in danger."
"You also are the element of Kindness, one of the best attributes to being a mother." Trixie said. "Not to mention, you reformed... you know who~~o ." She said, teasing her.
All the girls giggled, except Fluttershy, who blushed, but smiled all the same. She then looked at the clock tower with what little light was left, there was one minute until six.
"Omygosh, girls! Where is he? I hope he didn't forget!" Fluttershy started hyperventilating.
"Relax, Fluttershy. He'll be here. That I can promise." Twilight said.
"You know, Twilight, darling," Rarity said, with a smug look, "we have yet to find your significant other..."
"Rarity, We all talked About this." Twilight said, a bit annoyed. "Seriously, it's like I'm friends with a bunch of matchmakers!" Though she rolled her eyes with annoyance, she kept a playful smirk.
"Come on, Twilight. We're just messing with ya. It's not like your soulmate is gonna fall outta the sk--" Pinkie started, but was interrupted when she started to convulse rapidly all over, causing her friends to back off warrily. When she stopped she said her signature, "Wow, that was a doozy," as Rainbow Dash turned to Twilight.
"I bet that was for you and your love life, eh Twilight?" She said, then laughed when Twilight gave her an unamused look.
"Okay, you know what, the day that I start looking for my 'true love' or 'soulmate' will be the day that Discord shows up at this dance floor. On. Time!"
As though she completed a conjuration spell, a loud pop and a flash of light appeared on the dance floor right as the bell chimed for six o'clock. The music stopped with a scratch from the record player, and people turned towards the disruption and saw the tall chaotic man himself, looking around frantically for a second.
"Hey, Dizzy!" Vinyl Scratch yelled through the mic from the DJ booth, catching his attention. "Twilight just lost a bet, and you're the cause! Way to go, dude!
Everyone either cheered or laughed, except Twilight, her friends, and Discord (surprisingly).
Ugh... Twilight face palmed I had to say it, didn't I?
-Somewhere Close to Ponyville-
Ow... My Everything...
I feel like I was hit by a freight train, right in the head and it cascaded through every fiber of my being. What was it? I can't remember. All I feel is a dull pain. I'll try moving, opening my eyes. Yeah that should be--
*ACK*
Everythings bright! Even the shade under the tree! I see five of everything swirling around me! The rustling leaves, chirping birds and other noises are amplified a hundred fold, causing the pain in my head to skyrocket! I feel immense pain in my arms and neck, at least I think. I don't know, but there's one problem that I can't seem to avoid the most:
Can't... breathe...
-Ponyville, Dance Area-
"Look who finally decided to show up?" Rainbow said, giving her signature, challenging smirk. Discord, for his part, looked like he was searching for something, turning his head too and fro, scanning everything and every face within the vicinity. He searched, until his eyes found his target, and he started walking towards it. "I thought you wouldn't show up, and would end up breaking Flutters' heart. Then I would've--"
Discord ghosted right past Rainbow. No quip, no funny looks, not even acknowledging her. He was ignoring everyone except... her. Everyone that saw this was astounded, especially the rest of the girls. They knew Discord was tough, but tough enough to ignore the Princess of Prismatic Arrogance herself?
Fluttershy, at this point, didn't know what to think. She knew that, even married Rainbow Dash, was brash, but she didn't like to be ignored. But that's not what was bothering her. Discord looked... serious... and anxious. Something is wrong. As he was coming closer, Fluttershy was starting to get the butterflies again. What should I say? I know we were planning on dancing, but-
"Hey, You..."
Broken out of her thoughts, her mind went blank when she looked up to Discord, standing before her. His dashing, one-canine smile sent shivers up her spine and butterflies a-fluttering. This was one of the moments that she cherished when she was around the Lord of Chaos, when they were together looking into each other's eyes and...
His eyes. The same feeling of anxiety came back as she looked into his eyes. While the rest of him was putting up his usual masculine vibrato, his eyes were betraying the worried, painful view on the world, or something awful that had happened. She went to ask what was wrong when he beat her to it.
"I'm here." Discord said nervously. If his eyes didn't give it away, then his words did. Fluttershy grew even more anxiously, which Discord noticed. "Hey. It's okay, I'm here." He said softly, with more confidence as he cupped her face in his hands.
The moment that happened, gasps could be heard as to what was going on, then whispers of gossip as the town (and seven friends) saw what was possibly about to transpire. The Lord of Chaos and The Element of Kindness about to share their undying love for one another! It was sooooo romanti--
"Alright! Can you GIVE US a BREAK!?!" silent surprise sounded as everyone stopped murmuring and stared as an angry Discord shouted at the crowd, arms stretched out to the sides. "We're having a MOMENT!"
Everyone on the dance floor and by the surrounding booths not-so-subtly turned back to their previous activities and proceeded to 'ignore' the supposed couple, with the exception of seven other girls, much to Discord's chagrin.
"Discord?" A soft, melodic voice said as the owner's hand started to awkwardly rub his shoulder. Fluttershy was starting to get on edge. She'd never seen Discord so upset. "Is everything okay?"
Recovering quickly, Discord tried brushing off his temper and pent up stress with as much success as any bottle of water with dry ice in it...
"I'm fine, Fluttershy. Really. I just... got caught up somewhere is all, heh heh..." He said, nervously scratching the back of his neck. He smiled, "but I'm here."
Fluttershy's anxiety melted away as her tall friend confidently instilled kindness towards her. She always loved it when Discord showed his softer side, even though he hardly did in public, if at all. As strange as this peculiar case was, as well as by the flushing of her face that she felt, she wasn't complaining.
"That's great Discord. I'm glad you could find the time to come and be with me. Us! With us, a-as in, me and the girls. Not that you wouldn't want to be here, o-or couldn't find the time, o-or... if you want to be here, that is."
"YES!" Discord said, albeit a bit loudly. I nervously recovered. "I-I mean, yes. I want to be here. Are you ready to dance?"
Fluttershy grinned a stupid-happy grin at this request, and nodded emphatically. She knew she was flushed and in a completely embarrassing state, but she was happy for this moment.
"Yes. Let's dance." She said, with the most assertive attitude she can muster, only to back pedal a bit and say with a bit of a softer smile and voice, "please…"
Beaming with joy, Discord shouts to the DJ, "Hit it!" To which Vinyl salutes and starts to play a moderate tune to accommodate a mixture of fun, upbeat rhythms and budding love-filled sounds of a cello in springtime. Pretty soon it went from the two lovebirds dancing, to others joining in. Friends, neighbors, guys, gals, it didn't matter; everyone started to enjoy themselves and lose themselves into the music.
Twilight was laughing hard with her friends as they were dancing into the coming night. She also glanced around and saw others joining in.
Mr. and Mrs. Cake were both with their son and daughter, having the same contagious laugh as she did. They're getting so big. Oh how time flies.
She also spotted Big Mac and Cherilee going at it. Man, I didn't know they could do the Balboa.
She then saw the very one she was proud of. Spike, dancing like the goofball he was, with Sweetie Belle on his back, piggy-back style, just having a ball, laughing through their time together. She hopped off and ran up and hugged him around his neck as he caught her, spinning her around like a little dance couple in a wind-up music box. With a little peck on the cheek, which gave him pause, she hopped along to her friends who were giggling and cheering her on. Snapping out of his stupor, he chased after them, as the other girls joined the other kids of the town, and they started a game of tag.
With the music winding down and coming to a stop, Twilight turns to her friends, and she knows that they know what she's thinking, so she says it.
"This has been the best night ever! Nothing can ruin it!"
And just like that, something ruined it.
Screaming for help can be heard, as Bon-Bon and Lyra come sprinting into the square.
"Help! There's… something bleeding in the park! It looks like Terran, and he's dying!"
... I could truly be saved
~~~Near Ponyville, ten minutes earlier~~~
The pain of not being able to breathe is more that could ever be endured, yet this is still happening. If only there was some way to just get a gulp of fresh air… or just kick the bucket already, come ON. It shouldn't take this long to die… right?
"I wOuLd GLadDLy aGgreE WiTH YOu, bOy."
…
There's that again… what?...
"It iS NOt goOd foR THIs sHeLL tO CeASe MoVIng. I ShAll gRANt thEe… SoMe deLiVerANCe…"
What is it…
*GGGGHHHHHUUUGUGUGUGGUUH*
AIR! Sweet, wonderful air! Need more…
Need… more…
~~~Ponyville Park, a few minutes prior~~~
"I can't believe we're late for the BIGGEST party that Ponyville-- no, EQUESTRIA has ever had, all thanks to your dumb rivalary with that jerk off!" Bon Bon stated irritatingly, as she and Lyra were heading through the 'shortcut' that is the park. "Why can't you just let it go?"
Lyra was, by all accounts, very frustrated with her situation, and with needing to take the 'shortcut,' despite the train station being up the street from the actual town event. It was a quick glance at her partner's super-amazing, Equestria-famous candy snacks that made her swallow down a retort about taking the scenic route. In fact, she forced down the rest of her retorts to help calm the situation down so they could have a semi-decent time when they got to the town square.
"Bonny, I'm really sorry. High Notes just really rubs me the wrong way. I wish he wouldn't but he does." Lyra states, as she multitasks with calming down and keeping up with Bon Bon's stride. She really gets quick when she gets mad.
"That still doesn't excuse you from throwing your lyre on the ground to show you have more 'balls' than he ever would, all from him making fun of you for being with me!" Bon Bon says, slowing down a bit and looking at her lover with a frustrated look. "I'm flattered you'd go to lengths to show his sexist and homophobic ass that you mean busines, but why couldn't you destroy a chair or something? We put a down-payment on that lyre! WE STILL HAVE TWO YEARS LEFT TO PAY IT OFF!!!"
Frustration went to hysterics as they both stopped and Bon Bon was close enough to, it seemed, shoving all the candy down Lyra's throat. Lyra knew she was scary, but this was nuts! She knew then and there that if the night went any worse, the love of her life was gonna leave her for good.
"Bonny, I'm sorry! Really! I'll make it up to you. I'll work with you in the shop! I'll give up music and get a nine to five, if I have to. We're still young, I could set up a retirement, and then you can proudly take me to your parents and they'd finally say I'm responsible and love you enough to give up the silly pursuit of playing, then you'll love me more and we can stay together forever and you won't leave me and---"
A hand slapped itself over her mouth as a surprised Lyra saw a bridge-of-the-nose pinching and exasperated-sighing Bon Bon look up to her, moved her hand away and kissed her gently on the mouth.
"I'm not gonna leave you, we made vows, remember?" She states with a smirk, much to Lyra's relief. They held each other lovingly, as they always did during good and bad times. "Besides, you couldn't last an hour without me here to put you back in line---"
"GGGGHHHHHUUUGUGUGUGGUUH"
The two women jump with a yelp and look to and fro, trying to find the source of the strange noise. For some reason it sounded out of place and very… disturbing.
"What was that?" Bon Bon said. Holding close to Lyra, shaking like a maraca.
"I don't know." Lyra said, just as scared as her companion. "But it came from over there I think?" She said pointing to a tree surrounded by bushes.
They crept closer, slowly but surely closing the gap between them and their possible demise, at least they thought. When they got to the bush closest to the tree, they heard a bit of rustling and what sounds like… gurgling? They gently moved the bush to the side and screamed in horror.
What looked like a body of a man, sprawled out on his stomach, reaching for the open field of the park from the bushes. They saw bleeding from his arms which had jagged cuts on his elbows and possibly his wrist. While terrifying to behold, this isn't what sent them running for help.
As they screamed in fear, the figure lunged up and grabbed Bon Bon by the wrist very tightly. They then saw the bloated face of the man, with eyes that were almost pushed out from their sockets. They stopped screaming and saw in his eyes one type of request, which if he did not choke out, they would have known from just his eyes.
"....h-... help… me…"
He then collapsed, which sent the two running, abandoning their candy, their worries, and their previous argument. They needed to raise the alarm, and get help to that man.
~~~Ponyville Square, present time~~~
It had to happen, again! She had to say that stupid phrase again, and it had to do a complete one-eighty! Twilight would have smacked herself many times if the situation granted it, but it didn't. It took a few minutes to calm down the hysterical couple just to truly understand their plight, and once they did, a lot of things went into motion.
Immediately, Twilight called over the Mayor and Pinkie Pie to commence with crowd control and appeasing the party goers. She then told Rainbow Dash to search for both Nurse Redheart and Doctor Horse to get ready for a possible incoming person in need of medical attention. After Rainbow was away, she asked Rarity and Applejack to secure the children that had run off, and to make sure they and other patrons steer clear from the park. Starlight and Trixie were already heading towards the castle to let the guards know about the situation so that the castle may be secured and that they spread out through the town for any possible missing persons.
That just left Fluttershy, Discord, and herself. She was about to ask for their assistance when Discord beat her to it.
"I can let Celestia know! She has been meaning to come to the party anyway, right?" Discord said, as though he would take the job no matter what else was suggested.
"Actually, I was thinking that you would help us at the park. You may be able to transport him easily to the hospital and--" she said, but was cut off.
"No, someone's gotta tell Celestia!" He almost yelled, causing everyone around him to flinch at his sudden outburst. Noticing how Fluttershy flinched and almost retreated from him caused what felt like an icicle to pierce his heart. It's something that he wishes to never see again. So he takes a deep breath and continues with a softer tone. "We don't know what the situation is, nor do we have any idea as to how dangerous this person could be, if they are. Maybe a fugitive escaped from somewhere, and if someone knows, it might be Tia. We got to cover all our bases."
At a loss for words, Twilight couldn't help but to agree with his judgement. This is crazy, but it makes sense… too much sense. Something's not right. She thought as she focused more on his exact words. She would've asked Discord to elaborate on his thinking, when Fluttershy piped in.
"I can quickly go to the forest. Maybe something did happen, and some of the animals might know." Fluttershy said, with radiating confidence, which Discord observed and was very amazed to see. He could watch her all day, but now isn't the time.
"I'll go to Canterlot, and you go to the park, see how you can help out." Discord said, as Twilight was, again, about to interject on the situation.
Things needed to be done, pronto. She didn't have time to help the victim and go to Canterlot at this time. So, she acquiesced, and gave her answer.
"Fine. Fluttershy, you do what you suggested and see if any of the wildlife saw anything. Make sure no stone is left unturned." Twilight said firmly then turned to Discord. "Discord, go ahead and go to Canterlot and see what you can find out."
They both nodded, and were about to go, when Rainbow zoomed from the sky just above the trio.
"Twilight, I told Nurse Redheart what's happened and she and a few other hospital staff are headed toward the park right now." Rainbow said, flapping her feathered wings subconsciously. "I'm gonna go to the hospital and give them a heads up."
"Perfect." Twilight stated. "I'll head to the park and see what I can do to help."
Rainbow gave a salute and sped off, as Twilight nodded to both her friends as she closed her eyes, focused, and summoned her ethereal wings, of which she flapped a few times and then flew into the sky towards the park.
Being alone, Fluttershy and Discord had a chance to chat before getting to work. The funny thing is, now that they're somewhat open about their feelings, they don't know what to say. They look at each other and Fluttershy notices the same look in Discord's eyes that he had earlier. That look of apprehension.
"Discord?" Fluttershy asks, getting his full attention. "There's something wrong, isn't there?"
Discord, knowing that she's seeing the exact thing that he doesn't want her to see, is trying to think of something. You'd think the God of Chaos would think of something, right? He thinks to himself, but he doesn't know what to do. Should he lie? Run away? Would she ever forgive him? No, there's no way, not after he--
"Dissy?"
That soft, angelic voice says, which snaps him back to reality. The reality that he wants so badly. The reality of being with Fluttershy! Taking a deep breath he looks into her kind, worried eyes.
"Fluttershy, do you trust me?" Discord asks, with determination in his voice. Fluttershy notices this and, for some reason, she simply cannot say no. Is it his voice? His eyes? She doesn't know.
"Yes." She says, anticipating what he'll say next.
"Okay, good." He said, gulping down apprehension. "I have to go see Celestia, like I said, but I also have to… do some things." She gives a quizzical look as he continues. "Things that will take me away from Ponyville for sometime. I was going to tell you later, possibly tomorrow, but… all things considered and seeing as we only had one night to actually get together and not explore more of this[i/] just simply nuts. I wish we could--"
He was cut off. By a kiss. A small kiss on the lips, from the very person he was confessing to. She smiled with a small blush as she said, "I like you too, Discord."
Head spinning and blank, Discord couldn't help but be very much elated. He then went in for another kiss. Then another. And another. And a few more. Many catcalls were thrown towards them, along with quips about 'getting a room' and 'no one is cleaning up after them.' They separated and held each other for a second longer, until they had to get to work.
"Discord, how long will you be gone?" She asked, longingly.
"I don't know… but," whipping his hand around with his chaotic magic, he summoned a bright pink rose, with swirls of yellow on each petal. As he gave it to her, it bloomed and released a flurry of butterflies circling around them and one resting on her nose. "I will send one of these flowers to you everyday."
She held the rose close, and gave a sniff. It smelled of her little cottage and the wonderful smells that came from the nature around it. She then looked to him to ask what he called it, knowing he made the flower.
"It's the Fluttershy, of course. I'll also plant it wherever I go. I promise!" He said, as they embraced again, kissed and let go.
She then flew off toward her home to speak with her animals, as he waved goodbye. Once out of sight, his face went from happiness to grim darkness.
Now, he thought to himself, how do I convince Celestia to let me go somewhere else?...
~~~Ponyville Park, ten minutes later~~~
Pain, darkness, horror of my mind. I can barely breathe, yet I feel like I'm dying. How can I go on? Please let me rest!
"NoT YEt… TheY ARe COmiNG…"
Who?... what?...
I ask myself as I see shapes. A blur of movement. Hands are feeling me, moving me. Oh God, what do I do? What are they doing? I hear muffled words, slowly rising in volume. Then I see it. A purple blur as it comes close behind the other blobs. What is it?
I feel a crack of electricity, searing pain, and then I scream.
